[sdiy] Front panel design philosophies

[mskala at ansuz.sooke.bc.ca]

On Fri, 24 Apr 2015, David G Dixon wrote:
> Actually, I follow the MOTM format (more or less) with jacks along the
> bottom, pots and other stuff above.  Beyond that, it's a free-for-all.  I
> try to group similar or related things together.  If I can, I put inputs
> above outputs.

The two Intellijel modules I have handy are a Dr. Octature II, with inputs
above outputs, and a buffered multiple, with two groups, normalled signal
flow from the top to the bottom group (even an arrow showing that), and
input above outputs in each group.

I took a look on ModularGrid and noticed something interesting:  the few
Eurorack modules that have inputs below outputs also tend to have
dark-coloured panels, against Eurorack convention but in keeping with
other formats.  I'm guessing those modules, and those other formats, may
have inherited an out-above-in convention from some other tradition of
studio equipment that predated modular synths.

> The main thing is that the inputs and outputs are clearly marked.  At
> Intellijel, we bend it like Cwejman, with outputs surrounded by a solid
> square.
>
> So, Matthew, are you really in Sooke, BC?  Beautiful place; my wife and I
> went there for our 25th anniversary and had a lovely time.  I also like your
> signature line, and agree with it 100%.  I'm anti-principle.

Sooke is my hometown, but right now I'm in Copenhagen, Denmark.  I had the
domain name since very long ago (before CIRA took over .ca
administration), and haven't wanted to change it.

-- 
Matthew Skala
mskala at ansuz.sooke.bc.ca                 People before principles.
http://ansuz.sooke.bc.ca/