Help with basic first modular setup

Looking to build a small modular setup to mess with as stand alone and with Elektron boxes. Totally new to the modular stuff so I want to keep it simple now with full voices. The inspiration is based on the work of: https://youtu.be/BKUyN7GMSwc

A 2600, Linn drum and 1601 are out of the question for all sorts of reasons so I figured something like this might scratch the itch and give me a basic intro to modular (be careful what you wish for so I’m told). So yea, tring to build a basic setup that would be close to that flavor.

-I figure I can do drums in one of my Elektron boxes. DT, DN, A4ii, ARii. Also have a Keystep to go “stand alone”
-“Hands on sequencer” the metropolis. I know its not a match to the 1601 but it looks so fun and has sliders…
-2600 “clone”
-Figure a powered Makenoise skiff would be a safe start. With 104hp it should have room to add something if I decide.
-uMIDI is a guess but it should work right?
-Output? no idea but I was guessing I could use one of my Elektrons to go into so I want something that would pull that off.

At any rate, Would love to see if I am on track or if you all might have a better Idea based on the flavor of the video link above.

Thanks and have a epic safe new year!
Ian

That is actually a well rounded start to modular. Maybe a buffered mult will also be good. Intellijel makes an awesome one and they’re cheap.

Buy a bigger skiff, it just started… Believe me…

I would agree that this is a pretty good start, but I think you will get bored easily. Modulation sources are the ticket to keeping things spicy. Some LFOs and Mults will work wonders there. If you have an A4, than you have LFOs covered thanks to the CV outs.

Thanks!
So if I add the “Buff Mult” to what I have listed i would have a thing that makes a noise? That would be my last step in the signal and could dump into one of my Elektron ins correct?

Not only is the BM inexpensive, it’s only 2HP…

Thas again!

No it doesn’t make noise it multiplies voltage. For example the voltage signal coming off the metroplis can be multiplied to not only sequence your voice but also your filter.

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So the output on the 2600 would be my working output to run into one of the Elektrons? Then If I were to add another voice I would need a mixer down the road.

Thanks again!

You could get a 104hp intellijel 4U case, so you can stock on 1U utilities like Noise Tools (random + other useful stuff), Duat/Quadratt (attenuators, very useful), VCA, FSR (touch censor, very fun), Buff mult, or even Midi (but do you need it since you can sequence with A4?) . Then you can keep the precious 3u space for fun modulation or sound modules. Also, output modules are not really needed.

I’d get at least one modulation source as well, something like Batumi, Pamela’s workout, or the 1u Noisetools.

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(Which in this case is not necessary since Atlantis’ filter has a v/oct setting)

That’s a Metropolis not an Atlantis.

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My rack name might have confused chapelierfou… Originally I was goofing around with the Atlantis full voice as well but never renamed the rack.

At any rate, thanks so much for all the tips! Even building a simple rack with full voices is a bit scary without ever doing it before.

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Good point. I was looking at that one as well. At the time I did not realise I would need / want more simple utilities. Don’t want to start out with too much room or I’ll just get stuck shopping for stuff to pack inside it.

Thanks!

Absolutely! You’ll have a ton of fun with modular. Modular with Elektron is the best combo I’ve experienced so far. Like @tumulishroomaroom said you don’t need a output modular. The midi is good for receiving clock but since you already have a A4 you probably don’t need it.

Exactly ! (On a phone. I couldn’t see the picture clearly) sorry.

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i’d suggest to:
1st: use stackcables instead of mults
(don’t get the tiptops, their pricing is nothing but criminal…there is other options like the ones from modularaddict)

2nd: get a good and compact CV-mixer module (i’d recommend the abstract data 4 channel mixer)

3rd: make up you mind about what sound you are seeking for.

i mean: read a LOT about different synthesis methods: are you more into subtractive or additive synthesis? do you want to work with granular, FM, AM or AR-modulation methods? are you more into “warm” (i hate this word so much…) analogue-ish, or crisp digital and glitchy sound?

all these questions lead to the right choices. otherwise you get frustated big time…

oh: and i would highly recommend the FH2 from expert sleepers as MIDI/CV module: veeery costumizable and good for LFO’s that go into the negative voltages.

Makes sense now I think.

  1. Most basic with what I have: A4 cv -> Metropolis -> 2600 -> A4 input
  2. However If I wanted to use DT or AR2 for beats: I would need the MIDI module in front of the Metropolis.
  3. Then if I add more voices I would want a mixer module.

I guess I have a clear picture of the rabbit hole now. At least the top of it!

Thanks, I will look at those modules.
As for sound, that video and the short clips that Waveshaper posts are what I am looking for. If it was not for the unobtanium status of the Linndrum, 1601 and 2600 I would just get those and be off to the races. I figure a smaller modular setup with the 2600 tonestar and the Metropolis would get me somewhat close to that vibe and also function as a nice gateway drug into modular to boot. Not to mention I could even stick with full voices and add something else once this is setup. Not cheap but not vintage synth prices.

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That’s very true midi input always comes in handy. Using the midi input will definitely give you more modulation options also.

well, in that case you are more than equipped with what you have in your grid, and there is no need for an FH2 since you already have an A4 :slight_smile:

you might miss a dedicated slew for more “wobbly” stuff. MN MATHS is always a good choice for that, and it also has a mixer in it

Hello everyone.

Thank you all for an awesome forum, always love hanging out here :slight_smile:

I want to build my first real modular system and hoping that you can help me out. My aim is to generate some random/noisy/glitchy rythms/perc and synth lines. I love my Elektron gear (OT/A4/RYTM/AH), my Tracker, JU-06 ect. i just need something that can add some randomness to it all. So i will probably sample it to the OT and Tracker.

I’m thinking about starting small and preferably kinda cheap. Thinking about buying this Intellijel case.

I have tried to put together some modules, from what i have seen in some youtube videos. You can see a picture here. Or link to the rack on ModularGrid.

Could this thing work, should i change something and add other stuff (like an analog VCO)? Do you have any recommendations?

I’m pretty new to modular, so be gentle haha.