In this video I advocate for creating simple patches to utilise as a learning tool. Whether you are new to modular synthesis, thinking about starting, or have been modularing for a while, there is great benefit to be had from creating simple patch studies as an explorative tool to learn about your modular system. If you have any questions relating to this or would like me to cover any specific topics related to learning modular synthesis please let me know in the comments. Thanks for watching 🙂
Even though i am tempted to agree, my advice though is to realize asap that you will need a shit load of modules to do something useful. VCO+ADSR+LFO+VCF+FX+MIXER/VCA = 6 modules for 1 voice. Most VCO’s are monophonic, so if you want more voices at the same time, you need the whole riddle again. And also, you need utility modules like a sequencer, quantizer, mults etc. It’s a trap!
Hey, thanks man. Probably not as organised as it might seem from the outside. And there was quite a long time where I didn't manage to do much at all. But I have seem to have figured out a way to fit it all in for the moment 😊
Great video! I think you hit home on pretty much all the important topics for anyone looking to learn modular synthesis. Start small, just like if you are learning to play the piano, you don't start by trying to play complex pieces from Chopin you start off small with simple songs, building up technique and habits so that one day you can play that beautiful complex piece.
Always need to hear this and be reminded. The sounds I wanted to get were just a huge organ bass sound. Survival instinct shouldn't be an equation in modular. Less is way more. Thanks!
It's good advice. I cycle between states of complexity and simplicity. New ideas and ambitions lead to complex patches, frustration leads to getting back to basics. It's all part of the fun.
Something like the cre8audio east beast, is a nice little semi modular for beginners. gives you a good few of the basic functions, enough to learn how patching works. and when you buld a rack, you have a loveky oscillator and filter you can use. The sequencer is fun too
Great point about the 'dust collectors' and everything in general. I'm totally stuck on how the function generator works on my PM Voltage Lab, but I think it's crucial enough to understand that I won't buy anything more until I have a basic understanding of how to work with it. Really enjoy these little weekly talks of yours.
Another great video! Thanks for the input like I said before, things get a little overwhelming, especially when you're starting anything new. You made a really good point about only getting a couple the modules and seeing what that can do!
Yes sir, .. 3, 4 modules can do quite alot. I started out with Beads, Marbles, and Rings .. and it just amazing how many different kind of things, different feels, and personalities can come out of the same gear. Unusual, and exotic sounds are fairly common.
@@justrichardcharles Mmm, .. I don't know how you will find the accesibility of this? Calsynth (California US) does an excellent job of cloning of everything of MI, I believe, .. other than Beads. I just got their version of Tides (Tornado) .. and yes, the module feels solid like MI, .. and works very well, .. as far I can tell, anyway.
I think all of my MI modules are clones (except beads). The Calsynth modules do look nice though. I do remember getting a couple from the US and being hit pretty heavily with import tax.
Nice. So true, love this. Looks like we’re on the same page. I just had the same sentiment and then saw your post. Such a smart way to start. Keeps the overwhelm from creeping in and favors the joy in it instead.
God points, im one of those that got too many modules too quickly. Im an odd breed that somehow it worked out for. But, - there is modules in my rack that I don't know the ins and outs of by heart, and I see it as a future adventure that is just waiting for me. And that is exciting too. But I still think you make some good points! - We still need the tea and bisquit intro back btw ;)
Next video will have tea and biscuits! Or maybe something better! I'm the same in that there are modules that I've never really fully got to grips with, and as you say, it's just an adventure waiting for another day.
Great video. Addresses many of the hurdles I tend to have. I have more issues with digital modules like my Marbles clone and similar. Modules with too many jack sockets and knobs really throw me. I also have huge issues using them with more of the standard modules. I also don't like modules where menu diving is a necessity. With modular there is always a learning curve to overcome but heavy menu driven modules are a no-no. I kind of regret getting marbles because of how much there is to learn. I did get it because I didn't want to get a system that would ultimately become stale and samey. I was hoping for something that might open up a few door of creativity. I just didn't realise how flippin' awkward they are to use.
I think with modules where there are lots of input/output options you need to take them one step at a time. Don't be afraid to consult the manual and maybe try to split the module up into sections and learn at section at a time.
Hi Richard, cool video. Are you in the Midlands? I’m in Birmingham :) I’m going off the subtleties of your accent haha. When I was beginning with real Modular I just got 1 or two Doepfer modules and then patched them together in different ways for a while, it was a good way of not being overwhelmed 😊
I think modular should encourage things that cannot be done in a non modular environment. So I encourage people reckless abandon with creativity which includes overly and absurdly complex patches. After all, if you want simple, go buy a Roland.
First, think about your music. That is your guide. No matter what your music is, it is your guide to what you should buy. Then patch according to your music. Modular synthesizers are instruments in parts and pieces, because what's on the store shelf isn't what we need. When we patch, we assemble an instrument. That instrument produces our music. And what must guide us is our music.
In this video I advocate for creating simple patches to utilise as a learning tool. Whether you are new to modular synthesis, thinking about starting, or have been modularing for a while, there is great benefit to be had from creating simple patch studies as an explorative tool to learn about your modular system. If you have any questions relating to this or would like me to cover any specific topics related to learning modular synthesis please let me know in the comments. Thanks for watching 🙂
Even though i am tempted to agree, my advice though is to realize asap that you will need a shit load of modules to do something useful. VCO+ADSR+LFO+VCF+FX+MIXER/VCA = 6 modules for 1 voice. Most VCO’s are monophonic, so if you want more voices at the same time, you need the whole riddle again. And also, you need utility modules like a sequencer, quantizer, mults etc. It’s a trap!
Super inspired by your work - working full time, full time dad, acquiring PhD and running a YT channel - bonkers man!! Congrats on 1k my friend!
Hey, thanks man. Probably not as organised as it might seem from the outside. And there was quite a long time where I didn't manage to do much at all. But I have seem to have figured out a way to fit it all in for the moment 😊
thanks for the challenge!
Great video! I think you hit home on pretty much all the important topics for anyone looking to learn modular synthesis. Start small, just like if you are learning to play the piano, you don't start by trying to play complex pieces from Chopin you start off small with simple songs, building up technique and habits so that one day you can play that beautiful complex piece.
Thank you for these tips, especially the study part. God bless you! 😊❤
Always need to hear this and be reminded. The sounds I wanted to get were just a huge organ bass sound. Survival instinct shouldn't be an equation in modular. Less is way more. Thanks!
It's good advice. I cycle between states of complexity and simplicity. New ideas and ambitions lead to complex patches, frustration leads to getting back to basics. It's all part of the fun.
Something like the cre8audio east beast, is a nice little semi modular for beginners.
gives you a good few of the basic functions, enough to learn how patching works. and when you buld a rack, you have a loveky oscillator and filter you can use.
The sequencer is fun too
Yes, the east beast does look very cool. A great way to start out!
@justrichardcharles the west pest is cool too, but unless you are really in to the west coast sounds, is a little limited in it's use.
Great point about the 'dust collectors' and everything in general. I'm totally stuck on how the function generator works on my PM Voltage Lab, but I think it's crucial enough to understand that I won't buy anything more until I have a basic understanding of how to work with it.
Really enjoy these little weekly talks of yours.
Hey, thanks for the comment, glad you're enjoying the videos! 🙂
Another great video! Thanks for the input like I said before, things get a little overwhelming, especially when you're starting anything new. You made a really good point about only getting a couple the modules and seeing what that can do!
Yes sir, .. 3, 4 modules can do quite alot. I started out with Beads, Marbles, and Rings .. and it just amazing how many different kind of things, different feels, and personalities can come out of the same gear. Unusual, and exotic sounds are fairly common.
Same here, except clouds instead of beads. Mutable Instruments has a lot to answer for!
@@justrichardcharles Mmm, .. I don't know how you will find the accesibility of this? Calsynth (California US) does an excellent job of cloning of everything of MI, I believe, .. other than Beads. I just got their version of Tides (Tornado) .. and yes, the module feels solid like MI, .. and works very well, .. as far I can tell, anyway.
I think all of my MI modules are clones (except beads). The Calsynth modules do look nice though. I do remember getting a couple from the US and being hit pretty heavily with import tax.
@@justrichardcharles Yes, .. I was afraid of that. That's too bad, .. they're spendy enough, base price.
Nice. So true, love this. Looks like we’re on the same page. I just had the same sentiment and then saw your post. Such a smart way to start. Keeps the overwhelm from creeping in and favors the joy in it instead.
You know what they say, great minds... :)
@@justrichardcharles cheers to that! 🥰
God points, im one of those that got too many modules too quickly. Im an odd breed that somehow it worked out for. But, - there is modules in my rack that I don't know the ins and outs of by heart, and I see it as a future adventure that is just waiting for me. And that is exciting too. But I still think you make some good points! - We still need the tea and bisquit intro back btw ;)
Next video will have tea and biscuits! Or maybe something better!
I'm the same in that there are modules that I've never really fully got to grips with, and as you say, it's just an adventure waiting for another day.
Great video. Addresses many of the hurdles I tend to have. I have more issues with digital modules like my Marbles clone and similar. Modules with too many jack sockets and knobs really throw me. I also have huge issues using them with more of the standard modules. I also don't like modules where menu diving is a necessity. With modular there is always a learning curve to overcome but heavy menu driven modules are a no-no. I kind of regret getting marbles because of how much there is to learn. I did get it because I didn't want to get a system that would ultimately become stale and samey. I was hoping for something that might open up a few door of creativity. I just didn't realise how flippin' awkward they are to use.
I think with modules where there are lots of input/output options you need to take them one step at a time. Don't be afraid to consult the manual and maybe try to split the module up into sections and learn at section at a time.
Hi Richard, cool video. Are you in the Midlands? I’m in Birmingham :) I’m going off the subtleties of your accent haha.
When I was beginning with real Modular I just got 1 or two Doepfer modules and then patched them together in different ways for a while, it was a good way of not being overwhelmed 😊
Hey, Yes, not far from Birmingham, little further out to the west. Love your channel promo btw! 🙂
I think modular should encourage things that cannot be done in a non modular environment. So I encourage people reckless abandon with creativity which includes overly and absurdly complex patches. After all, if you want simple, go buy a Roland.
First, think about your music. That is your guide. No matter what your music is, it is your guide to what you should buy. Then patch according to your music. Modular synthesizers are instruments in parts and pieces, because what's on the store shelf isn't what we need. When we patch, we assemble an instrument. That instrument produces our music. And what must guide us is our music.
Great advice here!