MOTM Madness...continued

[Paul Schreiber]

Well, here is an update to all interested.

1) I have reviewed all of your inputs. The reality was that no one really cared (much) about backwards compatibility.
So, I will use a 5U high panel size, in 1.5 or 3.0 inch widths.

2) The first module is a joint design between 3 names you know: Doug Curtis, Thomas Henry, and little old me.
It is a "General Purpose Processing Module" with

a) precision sample/hold
b) noise gen
c) ring modulator with built-in mic preamp
d) undedicated VCA

No price yet: waiting on sheet metal quotes. The module will use the CEM3330 chip, a LF398AN S/H chip (included
in the kit) and maybe a SSM mic preamp chip. The LM394 matched pair is now EOL!!! (End of Life, no new
orders accepted) so I may do a MAT-03 design instead. The SSM is hard to beat, though.

Note that my objective in this and other kits is HIGH END audio quality. I refuse to save $5 and screw up the sound.
The layout, circuit design, and components are all selected so that you wind up with a synth AS GOOD OR BETTER
than one you have now (or WISH you had).

Now, I know that I can't please everyone. But I think the interest level is high enough to warrant quality stuff.

2) The color......Hmmmm.... Well, I never liked the original Digisound white panels (shows dirts like a white car). 
The white letters on black look of a Moog is tough to beat, since that is the IMAGE of a modular synth. But, I
thought about white on a dark cobalt blue. Any other suggestions???

3) The case. Hmmm..... Well, the Moog image again is a slightly sloped wood case with modules and patchcords.
Sorry, I LOVE that image. So, I plan to offer a 12 across, 1 high wood case with 2 tapped rails. The case has
a linear supply with universal inputs (110/220 50/60Hz), and a EMI line filter/fuse holder, and an IEC power
cord.

FEEDBACK REQUESTED

OK, flood the inbox!! I need to know the following:

1) What to EXPECT (not wish it was...) to pay for the case + the first module. PRIVATE REPLYS only please.
2) How many of you out there are really really REALLY considering buying a case + module(s).
3) I don't plan to offer a keyboard for this. There are many MIDI to CV units that will work: Kenton, KJK, PAIA,
Encore, etc. Is this an issue?? I may offer a "bundle" of a case + module + MIDI>CV.
4) Many asked about being rewarded for "loyality", ie sticking with me to the end. OK, that's a fair question, so
I propose the following.

Buy 6 kits, get 1 free.

Fair enough?? (well, the 'free' kits may be restricted somewhat to a dollar amount)

5) People have asked about the VCOs. Hard to have a modular without a VCO. Well, I'm taking the following route:

a) the first VCO will be a DUAL CEM3340 (yes, a 3340!) design. OK, I've been sneaky and kept these to my
greedy little self. But I want to use SOME (not all) in the modular to get the project "jump started". So, I will offer
these kits WITHOUT 3340s if you have some from previous buys or hoarding them like me. Currently, I have
enough to offer around 35 kits. I will LIMIT them to 35 people. If 35 people don't respond within 4 weeks after
I announce, then it's a melee. These kits will NOT be cheap. They will be the most expensive I'll probably offer.
PLEASE don't email me begging for 3340s. If you REALLY need them that bad, contact Wes Taggert at Analogics
(440)446-6911.

b) Doug and I are designing other VCOs. New opamps, DMOS FETS, polysulfide capacitors and other stuff
can make for a wicked discrete VCO. It's just alot of up-front time. Also, I have 3374 and as a last resort 3394s
which I can play with as well. So there will be plenty of VCOs.

c) Several have asked for the Digisound DCO. Perhaps. But how about a GM synth as a module???

6) I found some really awesome knobs: they are colored polycarbonate with a molded rubber outer. I can color
code the knobs like red = inputs, blue=audio yellow=control voltage etc. How does this sound??? THe rubber
is fairly hard (not "squishy") and you get a good grip. They are kind of pricey (my cost is about $1 each)
but eveyone I show them to goes ga-ga.

Well, please PRIVATE email me what you think. Yes, I am working on it. Remember, I'm old and slow!!! 

Paul Schreiber
Synthesis Technology