[sdiy] Beginners project questions

[Ryan Williams]

Tentochi wrote:
> I don't think I properly conveyed the meaning in what I wrote.
> 
> Tony's documentation is great.  A 4 out of 5.

It's all good. I just wanted to make sure new people weren't scared away 
from oakley modules by that. I think they are great and I feel like its 
more 'DIY' when I have to do a bit more of the work (like sourcing 
parts, and choosing the front panel I want). When I first started out I 
thought that building a VCO first was too difficult for me. After 
building it, and a few more, I'd say the only thing that makes it more 
difficult is learning to adjust the trimmers for scaling.

> Ordering parts
> can be a very daunting tast for a beginner (and even sometimes for experienced
> DIYers if things aren't spelled out clearly and they don't have a EE degree)

this is true, I admit it took me about 5 hours to pick all the parts I 
needed for my first module (the VCO). But I'm glad I did it, and after a 
few modules it's gotten fairly easy to pick parts.

> Obviously Ryan you had some previous electronics experience before building the
> Oakley VCO--not a absolute beginner.  I have not seen a tool list or basic
> electronics guide from Oakley--it is nearly impossible to get started without
> this information.  MOTM does provide these.

Yes, I built the fatman a few months before the VCO. I learned little 
from it. Other than that I had a few introductory university level 
courses on circuits (just simple passive circuits and only theory). But, 
I think anyone can build an Oakley VCO on thier first try with no 
electronics experience as long as they take thier time and follow the 
instructions, and ask the list if you aren't sure about something.  If 
still in doubt, buy an entry level circuits book, or better yet, read 
free tutorials online. I do recommend however, that a kit or premade PCB 
with instructions is the best place to start. Learning about the 
grounding scheme and power distribution is easiest that way.

I started synth DIY with a goal of designing my own modules and complete 
synths. I don't see the point of building synths unless this is your 
intention. I know many people probably will disagree, but I consider 
putting a synth kit together equivalent to putting a TV stand together 
(the kind that come with a bunch of parts and instructions). It can be a 
good stepping stone towards designing your own modules. If it weren't 
for the schematics I'd probably not buy any more premade PCBs even, but 
I do because I learn much from the schematics. Thats the reason that I 
will probably buy some MOTM modules (as soon as I have enough money).

BTW, i'm only typing this out for any beginners who may be idling the 
list, just as I did for a good 6 months before tring to build something.

--Ryan