[sdiy] where the **** do I start...

[Scott Gravenhorst]

Dave Magnuson <resfreq at hoohahrecords.com> wrote:
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>At 10:31 AM 3/10/04 -0800, Kevin wrote:
>>
>>I am a grade-a newbie to this, no real experience whatsoever (in this
>>field), and am trying to find a good first-timer DIY synth schematic.
>>Something I can piece together as my funds are on the low side. I have been
>>learning a lot from this list and am quite overwhelmed by all the info I
>>have researched. I do have some experience in soldering, and used to wire
>>generator systems and their controller networks. I am going to school in a
>>few months to start on my EE, but I really want to start making pretty
>>noises as soon as I can. :) Something simple, so I can figure how to put all
>>the bits I have learned together?
>>
>>Kevin
>
>
>For a first project, I'd hihgly recommend the Paia fatman.  Paia kits
>aren't necessarily the "best" synths available, but the price is relatively
>low when compared to anyone else.  The best part is the instruction
>manual... they are very complete and well explained.  Scott Gravenhorst has
>modified his Fatman with great results, so there's still some experimenting
>that you can do after you get it working.

Hey thanks!  I do like it.  Here's the URL with all the gorey details:

http://home1.gte.net/res0658s/FatMan/

>
>Other kit makers such as Blacet, Synthesis Tech, Wiard, Cyndustries,
>Oakley, Ken Stone (trying to remember all of you!!) would all be great
>places to start, but the cost will be higher.  You will probably only be
>able to build one or two modules for the same price as a fatman.   The
>difference is overall quality... you'll get nicer modules from the above
>mentioned manufacturers, but you need to pay for it.
>
>You could also try to start by scratch building something, but it takes a
>bit more skill, and your chances of success will be a good deal lower for
>your first few projects.  Start with an LFO (ASM-1 style?) and perhaps a
>VCA (Korg MS20?).  These have a faily low parts count and would be a bit
>easier than a typical VCO or VCF.  
>
>Dave Magnuson
>
>Resonant Frequency:
>resfreq at hoohahrecords.com
>http://www.hoohahrecords.com/resfreq/index.html
>
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-- Scott Gravenhorst | LegoManiac / Lego Trains / RIS 1.5
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