Modular stuff

[i.c. ultramedia]

>One thing i have noticed with 99% of modulars is how all of the sockets
>for patching are within the modules.
>So by the time you have patched a something fairly substantial (25 leads
>eg) you can't even get to the knobs
>properly :(

Indeed. this basic ergonomic issue is one of the problems I have with the
new doepfer/rs 3U minimodulars-(the other being 1/8" jacks)
It can get tight really quickly!

The fenix has some of the best ergonomics I have seen, in a very reasonable
space-one of the crucial reasons I ordered one- acting on faith regarding
the sound, based on opinions of people whom I
trust...http://www.cameo.nl/Fenix/

Synthesis Technology's MOTM is another example of great ergonomic
design-the knobs are larger, 'moogstyle', with enough room for fingers, and
always available even when patched to the max, since the jacks run along
the bottom... They have some reeeally cool stuff coming up this fall, at
great prices, too...www.synthtech.com

>Has anyone tried having a seperate panel at say the bottom of their
>modular to allow easier access to the knobs/controls?

I have an extra panel under a cusomized fatman that works well and doesn't
interfere with the knob areas. I am also working on a design based on some
gutted yamaha stuff that will probably have the jacks on the side and/or
bottom. Since I'm such a diy newbie, Synthesis Tech will do the hard
part--I'll just paint and drill the panel, build a case, and jump for joy
when it's done!

>What would be the best way to implement this without spending too much extra?
Soldering iron and 1/4 or banana jacks....put it on a panel.

>Also, has anyone had any experience with Fracracs that PAIA sell?
>
I do have a fracrack with only a blacet darkstar in it now--looks so lonely.
To Blacet's credit, he put all the jacks on the left, knobs on right--I can
deal with that much more than 'all mixed in'---if you like strange, you'll
love darkstar.
I plan to fill the fracrack with effects formerly of the footpedal variety,
jacks across the bottom...

g'luck!
charles morpheus
icumedia