Modular Synth Panels

Hi everyone, my first time to consider having my own panels made. I am going with 5U unless someone can talk me into MU. still comming to terms with FPD...are there any designing advice for a beginner. other questions are why are some 5u panels have rounded corners? Also is this viable to design your own panel for having Oakley or motm style modules. Plus I would like to have Dotcom style knobs on 5u simply because i like them. Is that possible without any problems I would also like to have better detail around pots/knobs than motm style. Some Motm style have no legending around knobs at all except positive and neg symbols. Basically what i intend is to have something similar to dotcom text/graphics on 5U panels with dotcom knobs if thats doable? any advice please would be appreciated. Plus the idea of a FPD price for a one off panel?

thanks aliis

there are some really good threads on muffwiggler about FPD. I have to get ready for work otherwise Id link you to them. Also theres a great front panel design thread where members of muff look over designs of each to give feedback on mistakes, layout, etc

I'm building a modular to, also 5U, and the most time consuming (and fun) part of it is the faceplate design (for me). I tried FPD, didn't get it, seems complicated, so I went for Easy Draw4. I'll print the PDF's, and use them for some laser etching on 1/8th or 1/16th panels. There are shops that makes signs, metal sticker label and all that, they can work something out for you if you can find one in your area. There is also the MFOS technique... Print, have the sheet laminated, cut to size and glue it on the alum plate, work out fine too. Especially if you can find some colored paper (or have a laser color printer). You can add pretty wild designs to your plates and the result if ok. I bought some ''silver'' paper at Stapples the en result is pretty neat.

I don't know about the round ended panel, probably to lessen the pain if you drop a module on your foot?

I ordered many different knobs last week from Small Bear Electronics to sample them and once I'm fixed I'll put an order for a bunch. Sampling knobs is a good idea. Especially for those pot legends that are never quite to size.

Mock ups are also a wise thing to use, I print my panel layouts, glue them to a piece of cardboard, fix the pots and jacks and wire everything. Once all modules are set and I am content with their functionality, I'll have real plates etched. I guess it must be pretty frustrating to have your plates done and realize you ''forgot'' something or your design just doesn't work out as hoped.

Anyway, that was my 25 cents...

--- In ModularSynthPanels@yahoogroups.com, "aliis" <aliisvorbach@...> wrote:
>
> Hi everyone, my first time to consider having my own panels made. I am going with 5U unless someone can talk me into MU. still comming to terms with FPD...are there any designing advice for a beginner. other questions are why are some 5u panels have rounded corners? Also is this viable to design your own panel for having Oakley or motm style modules. Plus I would like to have Dotcom style knobs on 5u simply because i like them. Is that possible without any problems I would also like to have better detail around pots/knobs than motm style. Some Motm style have no legending around knobs at all except positive and neg symbols. Basically what i intend is to have something similar to dotcom text/graphics on 5U panels with dotcom knobs if thats doable? any advice please would be appreciated. Plus the idea of a FPD price for a one off panel?
>
> thanks aliis
>

Don't give up on FPE panels too quickly. If you can afford them, it's a
good way to get a high-quality panel in a short time frame. The best
way to learn FPE is to download a bunch of files. There are tons in the
files section of this Yahoo group, and most of my module pages with FPE
panels have download links to the file. I never start from scratch; I
start from one of my old designs. Copy and paste is easy, even between
two panels. Load up some of those panel and play around with editing
them. It will get easier. (Note: I'm talking about the Windows
version. I'm having a devil of a time getting panel objects to line up
on the Mac.)

Richard Brewster
http://pugix.com

On 3/28/12 4:32 PM, zoth4355 wrote:
> I'm building a modular to, also 5U, and the most time consuming (and fun) part of it is the faceplate design (for me). I tried FPD, didn't get it, seems complicated, so I went for Easy Draw4. I'll print the PDF's, and use them for some laser etching on 1/8th or 1/16th panels. There are shops that makes signs, metal sticker label and all that, they can work something out for you if you can find one in your area. There is also the MFOS technique... Print, have the sheet laminated, cut to size and glue it on the alum plate, work out fine too. Especially if you can find some colored paper (or have a laser color printer). You can add pretty wild designs to your plates and the result if ok. I bought some ''silver'' paper at Stapples the en result is pretty neat.
>
> I don't know about the round ended panel, probably to lessen the pain if you drop a module on your foot?
>
> I ordered many different knobs last week from Small Bear Electronics to sample them and once I'm fixed I'll put an order for a bunch. Sampling knobs is a good idea. Especially for those pot legends that are never quite to size.
>
> Mock ups are also a wise thing to use, I print my panel layouts, glue them to a piece of cardboard, fix the pots and jacks and wire everything. Once all modules are set and I am content with their functionality, I'll have real plates etched. I guess it must be pretty frustrating to have your plates done and realize you ''forgot'' something or your design just doesn't work out as hoped.
>
> Anyway, that was my 25 cents...
>
> --- In ModularSynthPanels@yahoogroups.com, "aliis"<aliisvorbach@...> wrote:
>> Hi everyone, my first time to consider having my own panels made. I am going with 5U unless someone can talk me into MU. still comming to terms with FPD...are there any designing advice for a beginner. other questions are why are some 5u panels have rounded corners? Also is this viable to design your own panel for having Oakley or motm style modules. Plus I would like to have Dotcom style knobs on 5u simply because i like them. Is that possible without any problems I would also like to have better detail around pots/knobs than motm style. Some Motm style have no legending around knobs at all except positive and neg symbols. Basically what i intend is to have something similar to dotcom text/graphics on 5U panels with dotcom knobs if thats doable? any advice please would be appreciated. Plus the idea of a FPD price for a one off panel?
>>
>> thanks aliis
>>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>

Im carefull not to post too much here, as i dont want to compete with Scott, however, i should speak up on this one : )

>>why are some 5u panels have rounded corners?

No reason, other than a cosmetic choice by the designer.

>>Also is this viable to design your own panel for having Oakley or motm style modules.

Loads and loads of people do : )

>>Plus I would like to have Dotcom style knobs on 5u simply because i like them. Is that possible without any problems I would also like to have better detail around pots/knobs than motm style.

Many people add 'tick marks' but it adds to machine time / cost.

>>Plus the idea of a FPD price for a one off panel?

It all just depends on what's on it. Such seemingly small things can alter machine time (and hence cost) by more than you would imagine.


If you want to keep your cost down with CNC work (ie FPD etc) then keep to single stroke fonts (ie fonts that can be cut with a single cut - not bold fonts that need 'multistroke')

All line work requires cutting

& keep to single infill colours and / or dont infill.


If Scott has the panels you want, and you want to keep costs down, buy from him, esp if youre in the States. 1-off CNC work will never be able to compete on price with bulk silk screen printing. Silk screening is costly for 1-offs, but scales much better than CNC.

For this reason, im not competition for Scott, so ...

This is me - http://www.thebeast.co.uk/cnc/

Im in Europe, so whilst i am still competative with FPD in the States, im most proud of the monnies im able to save those in the EU (generally about 20-25% - which is worth having on a bunch of panels)

One final thing id mention -

Make sure you get someone else to 'proof' your design before cutting.

Ive had stacks of designs in where there have been the odd issue that ive been able to point out the customer. Without someone proofing the panel (be it the person who cuts it, or any peer online) you can imagine the frustration (and cost) that's possible.

Good luck. Its very pleasing to get your own design back, cut on metal, and then to fit it all together, and it work...

Julian

zoth4355 wrote:

>
>
> I'm building a modular to, also 5U, and the most time consuming (and
> fun) part of it is the faceplate design (for me). I tried FPD, didn't
> get it, seems complicated, so I went for Easy Draw4. I'll print the
> PDF's, and use them for some laser etching on 1/8th or 1/16th panels.

Is this EazyDraw that runs only on the Mac or some other program? I can't seem
to find anything called Easy Draw 4. Can you post a link please?

Cheers

Ian

Here you go Ian:

http://www.eazydraw.com/AppStoreSupport.htm

--- In ModularSynthPanels@yahoogroups.com, Ian Thompson-Bell <ianbell@...> wrote:
>
> zoth4355 wrote:
> >
> >
> > I'm building a modular to, also 5U, and the most time consuming (and
> > fun) part of it is the faceplate design (for me). I tried FPD, didn't
> > get it, seems complicated, so I went for Easy Draw4. I'll print the
> > PDF's, and use them for some laser etching on 1/8th or 1/16th panels.
>
>
> Is this EazyDraw that runs only on the Mac or some other program? I can't seem
> to find anything called Easy Draw 4. Can you post a link please?
>
> Cheers
>
> Ian
>

As a side note, regarding the FPD soft, yes I had issues understanding the hole thing for the 10-20 mins I've worked on it. What I'm understanding is that it's not as easy to steer on a Mac so that might explain a few things. Regardless, Easy Draw is a fun and practical drawing program but I guess more of a poor mans option compared to to FPD. And frankly this laser etching bit is not as ''in your face'' graphic wise, you also need to drill your own holes on your plates when the etching is done. So you need more elbow grease.

--- In ModularSynthPanels@yahoogroups.com, "zoth4355" <zoth4355@...> wrote:
>
> Here you go Ian:
>
> http://www.eazydraw.com/AppStoreSupport.htm
>
>
> --- In ModularSynthPanels@yahoogroups.com, Ian Thompson-Bell <ianbell@> wrote:
> >
> > zoth4355 wrote:
> > >
> > >
> > > I'm building a modular to, also 5U, and the most time consuming (and
> > > fun) part of it is the faceplate design (for me). I tried FPD, didn't
> > > get it, seems complicated, so I went for Easy Draw4. I'll print the
> > > PDF's, and use them for some laser etching on 1/8th or 1/16th panels.
> >
> >
> > Is this EazyDraw that runs only on the Mac or some other program? I can't seem
> > to find anything called Easy Draw 4. Can you post a link please?
> >
> > Cheers
> >
> > Ian
> >
>

Ah, so it is the Mac only one. Pity.

Cheers

Ian

zoth4355 wrote:

>
>
> Here you go Ian:
>
> http://www.eazydraw.com/AppStoreSupport.htm
>
> --- In ModularSynthPanels@yahoogroups.com
> <mailto:ModularSynthPanels%40yahoogroups.com>, Ian Thompson-Bell
> <ianbell@...> wrote:
> >
> > zoth4355 wrote:
> > >
> > >
> > > I'm building a modular to, also 5U, and the most time consuming (and
> > > fun) part of it is the faceplate design (for me). I tried FPD, didn't
> > > get it, seems complicated, so I went for Easy Draw4. I'll print the
> > > PDF's, and use them for some laser etching on 1/8th or 1/16th panels.
> >
> >
> > Is this EazyDraw that runs only on the Mac or some other program? I
> can't seem
> > to find anything called Easy Draw 4. Can you post a link please?
> >
> > Cheers
> >
> > Ian

I also found that FPE on the Mac is harder to use than on Windows.
Fortunately I still have an old Win machine I can use for it.

Richard Brewster
http://pugix.com

On 3/31/12 3:48 PM, zoth4355 wrote:
> As a side note, regarding the FPD soft, yes I had issues understanding the hole thing for the 10-20 mins I've worked on it. What I'm understanding is that it's not as easy to steer on a Mac so that might explain a few things.

Get outta here Jullian!

Hi all,

I was reluctant to post here, being in the game of panel making and not wanting to self promote, butif anyone is looking for a more traditional MU look rather than the engraved MOTM style, then I do etched anodised panels with folded sides (along with all the other formats too)
I can't always promise to be cheaper than The Beast , FPE or quicker for custom stuff either, but a one off 1 MU certainly wouldn't be silly money. Due to the photo-etch technique (not Metalphoto, but etched into the metal like Moog modules) custom one-off designs aren't as costly as a screen print set up for instance, especially if your artwork is pretty much ready to go.

There are plenty of options open to you I think these days. Julians panels look great and obviously you are dealing with someone who understands synths too!
Scott's MOTM panels are superb if you need to have a consistant feel with the format with his textured paint finish for a more common design.

I've heard of some people looking into getting their own machinery to start doing their panels, and I know I'm biased, but it is a whole end in itself! As julian will atest I'm sure it's not a simple matter of buy machine and software and hey presto, perfect panels, there's a lot of work in something that seems so simple....


Regards,

Ben
www.resynthesis.co.uk

--- In ModularSynthPanels@yahoogroups.com, Scott Deyo <contact@...> wrote:
>
> Get outta here Jullian!
> ; )
>
> Support ze beastie! Any other competition is free to post here, too. It's all about Synth-DIY -- to help us make the synths and play 'em!
>
> Just to restate, this isn't a Bridechamber newsgroup in any way. It's for any panel design work at all. I post sometimes when I have new stuff in stock, as a resource, but anyone can do that. It's a resource group for any techniques folks want to share.
>
> Anyway...
> All of mine are painted and screened by local companies. Like Julian said, this is really only competitive if you're doing a run of 20+. One-offs would be around $150! This way also takes a LOT longer than FPE.
>
> I agree with Julian -- run your designs past some folks! That way you won't get an "Ouput" like I did...
>
> Scott Deyo
> contact@...
> The Bridechamber
> www.bridechamber.com
> Jealous Edison Record Kompany
> www.jealousedison.com
>
>
>
>
> On Mar 30, 2012, at 8:45 AM, julianfincham wrote:
>
> > Im carefull not to post too much here, as i dont want to compete with Scott, however, i should speak up on this one : )
> >
> > >>why are some 5u panels have rounded corners?
> >
> > No reason, other than a cosmetic choice by the designer.
> >
> > >>Also is this viable to design your own panel for having Oakley or motm style modules.
> >
> > Loads and loads of people do : )
> >
> > >>Plus I would like to have Dotcom style knobs on 5u simply because i like them. Is that possible without any problems I would also like to have better detail around pots/knobs than motm style.
> >
> > Many people add 'tick marks' but it adds to machine time / cost.
> >
> > >>Plus the idea of a FPD price for a one off panel?
> >
> > It all just depends on what's on it. Such seemingly small things can alter machine time (and hence cost) by more than you would imagine.
> >
> > If you want to keep your cost down with CNC work (ie FPD etc) then keep to single stroke fonts (ie fonts that can be cut with a single cut - not bold fonts that need 'multistroke')
> >
> > All line work requires cutting
> >
> > & keep to single infill colours and / or dont infill.
> >
> > If Scott has the panels you want, and you want to keep costs down, buy from him, esp if youre in the States. 1-off CNC work will never be able to compete on price with bulk silk screen printing. Silk screening is costly for 1-offs, but scales much better than CNC.
> >
> > For this reason, im not competition for Scott, so ...
> >
> > This is me - http://www.thebeast.co.uk/cnc/
> >
> > Im in Europe, so whilst i am still competative with FPD in the States, im most proud of the monnies im able to save those in the EU (generally about 20-25% - which is worth having on a bunch of panels)
> >
> > One final thing id mention -
> >
> > Make sure you get someone else to 'proof' your design before cutting.
> >
> > Ive had stacks of designs in where there have been the odd issue that ive been able to point out the customer. Without someone proofing the panel (be it the person who cuts it, or any peer online) you can imagine the frustration (and cost) that's possible.
> >
> > Good luck. Its very pleasing to get your own design back, cut on metal, and then to fit it all together, and it work...
> >
> > Julian
> >
> >
>

Hi Ben,

Ben doesn't want to self-promote, but I can tell you he makes some of the best stuff I've seen. Excellent quality, and he's a heck of a nice guy to boot.

Gary

--- In ModularSynthPanels@yahoogroups.com, "synthnut" <synthnut@...> wrote:
>
> Hi all,
>
> I was reluctant to post here, being in the game of panel making and not wanting to self promote, butif anyone is looking for a more traditional MU look rather than the engraved MOTM style, then I do etched anodised panels with folded sides (along with all the other formats too)
> I can't always promise to be cheaper than The Beast , FPE or quicker for custom stuff either, but a one off 1 MU certainly wouldn't be silly money. Due to the photo-etch technique (not Metalphoto, but etched into the metal like Moog modules) custom one-off designs aren't as costly as a screen print set up for instance, especially if your artwork is pretty much ready to go.
>
> There are plenty of options open to you I think these days. Julians panels look great and obviously you are dealing with someone who understands synths too!
> Scott's MOTM panels are superb if you need to have a consistant feel with the format with his textured paint finish for a more common design.
>
> I've heard of some people looking into getting their own machinery to start doing their panels, and I know I'm biased, but it is a whole end in itself! As julian will atest I'm sure it's not a simple matter of buy machine and software and hey presto, perfect panels, there's a lot of work in something that seems so simple....
>
>
> Regards,
>
> Ben
> www.resynthesis.co.uk
>
> --- In ModularSynthPanels@yahoogroups.com, Scott Deyo <contact@> wrote:
> >
> > Get outta here Jullian!
> > ; )
> >
> > Support ze beastie! Any other competition is free to post here, too. It's all about Synth-DIY -- to help us make the synths and play 'em!
> >
> > Just to restate, this isn't a Bridechamber newsgroup in any way. It's for any panel design work at all. I post sometimes when I have new stuff in stock, as a resource, but anyone can do that. It's a resource group for any techniques folks want to share.
> >
> > Anyway...
> > All of mine are painted and screened by local companies. Like Julian said, this is really only competitive if you're doing a run of 20+. One-offs would be around $150! This way also takes a LOT longer than FPE.
> >
> > I agree with Julian -- run your designs past some folks! That way you won't get an "Ouput" like I did...
> >
> > Scott Deyo
> > contact@
> > The Bridechamber
> > www.bridechamber.com
> > Jealous Edison Record Kompany
> > www.jealousedison.com
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > On Mar 30, 2012, at 8:45 AM, julianfincham wrote:
> >
> > > Im carefull not to post too much here, as i dont want to compete with Scott, however, i should speak up on this one : )
> > >
> > > >>why are some 5u panels have rounded corners?
> > >
> > > No reason, other than a cosmetic choice by the designer.
> > >
> > > >>Also is this viable to design your own panel for having Oakley or motm style modules.
> > >
> > > Loads and loads of people do : )
> > >
> > > >>Plus I would like to have Dotcom style knobs on 5u simply because i like them. Is that possible without any problems I would also like to have better detail around pots/knobs than motm style.
> > >
> > > Many people add 'tick marks' but it adds to machine time / cost.
> > >
> > > >>Plus the idea of a FPD price for a one off panel?
> > >
> > > It all just depends on what's on it. Such seemingly small things can alter machine time (and hence cost) by more than you would imagine.
> > >
> > > If you want to keep your cost down with CNC work (ie FPD etc) then keep to single stroke fonts (ie fonts that can be cut with a single cut - not bold fonts that need 'multistroke')
> > >
> > > All line work requires cutting
> > >
> > > & keep to single infill colours and / or dont infill.
> > >
> > > If Scott has the panels you want, and you want to keep costs down, buy from him, esp if youre in the States. 1-off CNC work will never be able to compete on price with bulk silk screen printing. Silk screening is costly for 1-offs, but scales much better than CNC.
> > >
> > > For this reason, im not competition for Scott, so ...
> > >
> > > This is me - http://www.thebeast.co.uk/cnc/
> > >
> > > Im in Europe, so whilst i am still competative with FPD in the States, im most proud of the monnies im able to save those in the EU (generally about 20-25% - which is worth having on a bunch of panels)
> > >
> > > One final thing id mention -
> > >
> > > Make sure you get someone else to 'proof' your design before cutting.
> > >
> > > Ive had stacks of designs in where there have been the odd issue that ive been able to point out the customer. Without someone proofing the panel (be it the person who cuts it, or any peer online) you can imagine the frustration (and cost) that's possible.
> > >
> > > Good luck. Its very pleasing to get your own design back, cut on metal, and then to fit it all together, and it work...
> > >
> > > Julian
> > >
> > >
> >
>