[sdiy] Definition of Modular (regarding FatMan)

[harrybissell]

To me... modular means that inputs and outputs have a standardized
specification across the platform... ie all signals are +/-10V, all inputs
100Kohm etc... allowing you to patch whatever you want to whatever.

I would exclude the 'fatman' as modular in that regard... although it can
be MADE modular by re-design

H^) harry

Magnus Danielson wrote:

> From: Scott Gravenhorst <music.maker at gte.net>
> Subject: [sdiy] Definition of Modular (regarding FatMan)
> Date: Sun, 21 Aug 2005 10:09:38 -0700
> Message-ID: <200508211709.j7LH9cK06798 at linux6.lan>
>
> > Perhaps my usage of the word 'modular' is incorrect, so I will ask:
> >
> > What does 'modular' mean?
> >
> > I ask because at least one person said that the FatMan is not modular.
> >
> > I always thought that modular means "composed of modules".  The FatMan is
> > most certainly composed of modules.
> >
> > IMHO, a FatMan is modular (and analogue, too), it's just not patchable out
> > of the box.
>
> Traditionally, modular really meant that you had a bunch of modules which
> shared chassi(s) and power (Moog Modulars). For some you also had various forms
> of normalized patches (ARP 2600) and routingpaths (ARP 2500), but you could
> still do quite alot of free patching, if not fully free. Pre-patches synths
> (such as MiniMoog) has a much reduced freedom, but is not modular. The MiniMoog
> originally (Model A) was really just normal Moog Modular modules stacked
> together, but then fixed patches replaced the free patches and you ended up
> with a more static design, for the benefit of cost and while still providing
> what many people thought they needed most.
>
> There is nothing wrong with post-patched synths, they are just not modular.
>
> The Oberheim Xpander is a real border-case, but it is still not a true modular,
> just a very flexible synth.
>
> I don't consider FatMan a modular, it doesn't have that extreme end flexibility
> as I have gathered it. You could certainly mod up one to become effectively a
> modular, but that is a separate case.
>
> Cheers,
> Magnus