Modular Synth

[Magnus Danielson]

From: "Richard Harrison" <list.groups at virgin.net>
Subject: Modular Synth
Date: Sat, 26 Feb 2000 18:56:02 -0000

> Hi,

Hi Richard!

> i am a REAL beginner to this type of electronics, so i'm after a bit of
> advice. I want to make my own modular analogue synth using schematics from
> the net or buy a kit that i could build up piece by piece into a modular
> synth.
> 
> Where do i get such information?

Here at Synth-DIY! ;)

> I want to connect it upto a keyboard to play it. What type of keyboard does
> it have to be? I have a keyboard that may be suitable. How do i verify this
> and how do i interface it?

Either you have a CV-keyboard or you have a MIDI keyboard. If you only have a
MIDI keyboard either the synth has a MIDI interface or you have to use a
separate MIDI to CV box.

> To build a simple synth is the following list all i need?
> 
> VCO
> LFO
> FILTER
> ENVELOPE
> MODULATOR
> SIMPLE AUDIO MIXER

It sounds like a good start. Here are a few of the stuff you migth consider:

Paia Fatman
http://www.paia.com/fatman.htm
A kit from Paia. Got MIDI interface to start with.

Gene Stopp's ASM-1
http://home.swipnet.se/cfmd/synths/friends/stopp/
You get the PCB from Gene but have to get the components yourself. Also, you
have to plan the front plate by yourself. You can wire it up as a fixed patch
thing, to a semirigid machine or (which is most popular) as a fully modular
device. The only thing the modules interconnect on the PCB is the power.

Paul Screibers MOTM
http://www.synthtech.com/motm/index.html
This is a kit oriented modular. You get the modules you like and build them.
I'm sure Paul will reply to you about it (Hi Paul).

> I am quite experienced at constructing other devices but have no idea about
> how to approach this.
> 
> I have to facility to etch PCB's providing i have a circuit layout in a
> pictorial form, but i do not have the facility to design the PCB layout from
> a circuit diagram.
> 
> I understand that this will be monophonic. how would i go about adding
> polyphony (ie ow would i sync up the modules etc)

In syncing up I assume you are refering to the settings, so that they are using
common settings, yes, you would want that to some degree. The key is really
in the separation in gate and CV for each individual voice.

> I understand these are HUGE questions, but i have to start somewhere!!!

Sure you have to.

Cheers,
Magnus