Okay, here’s an update on the current grid: https://www.modulargrid.net/e/racks/view/1102070
I like it a lot more, and whaddaya know, it’s actually cheaper than the other one, haha.
Thoughts on this Eurorack layout?
1 Like
A used ES-8.
2 Likes
Ooh, yes, I forgot about the ES8.
2 Likes
An ES-9 would be another alternative. It has a pretty fancy mixer built in and of course lots more I/O.
1 Like
That’s a good option too. I kind of want to wait until Audulus has MIDI out until I get some sort of interface, though.
2 Likes
The reason I suggested a used one is because you could get close to what you paid for it back if you want an alternative. Having Audulus available to your eurorack will allow you to explore various types of synthesis and use different tools in a pinch. I really like the idea of being able to use a rack on its own without the need for Audulus. But I also like being able to use Audulus for signal processing and a zillion other applications. Often I’ll see a digital oscillator or something coming out but then I just turn to Audulus. I mean you could have a polyphonic digital synth and all else that goes with it for the price of a used ES-8. That’s hard to beat. Just saw a used ES-9.
That’s a really good point, actually. Getting at least some sort of ES interface module is a goal of mine at some point, mostly because I don’t want to keep adding on modules and racks forever: it’d be nice to just be able to make some of the extra stuff you might need, like an LFO or what have you (well, when MIDI out is finally available). Signal processing is a good idea too, though: I do have a few effects that I really like using in Audulus.
Actually, to add onto what @futureaztec was saying: do you guys recommend buying used or new? Aside from the ES modules, of course. I just don’t want to get screwed over, or, like, have to figure out what ribbon cable I need to use if the seller doesn’t include one (i.e., I’m not very savvy with the nitty-gritty details of electronics).
- Single channel quantizer probably won’t be enough for 3 voices, so I would either ditch it or look for something with more channels.
- I generally don’t understand mixers without cv inputs for gain and mixing.
- Knobfarm Ooots is probably more interesting output module https://www.modulargrid.net/e/knob-farm-ooots
- Elements and Rings overlap in many ways, maybe its better to choose one or the other as a starting point, considering the hp of Elements in this compact system.
- I would go for a small gate / trigger sequencer like Varigate 4+ or other instead of generative Grids - intention over automation. I wish Varigate 4+ had more than 8 steps tho, but there might be other options. This is also interesting: https://www.modulargrid.net/e/dnipro-modular-dot
- Overall there’s too few modulation sources.
1 Like
I highly recommend buying used. There are always risks. If you go through Reverb.com there is some protection as a buyer and seller. Used Eurorack is actually very affordable. Also it is a bit of a nicer community than, say, automobiles which is where everyone just throws ethics out the window.
Also, these modules are investments. One day the originals will probably be worth a car. My prediction. But that will take a decade or two. I think jacks are vulnerable. Also, it depends on the initial quality of the module. Happy Nerding, for example has great potentiometers. Erica synths pico line are not in the same league, but priced accordingly.
Also, with used, consider shops. Detroit Modular, Patchweks, etc.
1 Like
What would you suggest for modulation modules? Also, thank you so much for all the other feedback!
1 Like
Okay, good to know! Thank you!
Maths is the single most popular Eurorack module according to modular grid, so it would certainly be on the top of my list.
2 Likes
I like quad lfo and voltage block from Malekko, but I can’t say I love them to death. I wish VB worked closer to a smooth motion recorder rather than sequencer of voltage values, and quad lfo could be modulated by external cv and not just having its own sequencer and ability to sequence different paraments internally.
Many people like Maths, Batumi and Zadar, or some random stuff, but having just two ad envelopes from Maths is just not enough for me, even with self-patching etc. Batumi and Zadar have too few controls, but Zadar might be more interesting of the two.
I guess you need a really clear understanding of how you want to interact with your system, what balance of intention vs random or generative modulation, its very personal.
2 Likes
Okay, this is all good to know. The Quad LFO looks pretty cool, though, yeah, not having any external cv modulation is kind of annoying…though I guess you could just output it into another LFO. I think I’ve got a good idea of what I’m looking for, now, so thanks!
What about a clock source. Divided clocks to program drums, changes, as a source for logic, modulatable divided clocks for quantized scale variations. Maybe Pamela’s Workout from ALM.
2 Likes
In the new version I have I added Qu-Bit’s Pulsar and Chance, which I think would probably work as a clock, but after doing some research, Pamela’s Workout seems like a better option right now, so thanks for the heads-up!
1 Like
I went to look at your latest iteration and got an “invalid rack” error from Modular Grid.
Okay, so, I’m thinking my first two modules are going to be Plaits and some sort of clock source. I can’t decide between Pamela’s New Workout or Marbles. Any thoughts? I like the randomization capabilities on Marbles, and that it’s also a quantizer, but PNW seems a little more powerful and capable of so much more. I dunno. It’s not like I have to decide immediately, anyway: I’m not pulling the trigger on anything until the beginning of February.