MOTM

> So, what are thoughts about this? I want to still use the MOTM panels
> sizes. But I can:
> 
> a) change color

If you were starting from scratch, that'd be okay.  But now keep it
black.  For variety you could have larger painted areas, such as white
blocks with inverse lettering.

> b) add graphics

Yes, please! Arp and CMS are good examples, but don't go overboard with
entire block diagrams of everything.  Not surprisingly I tend to prefer
Wavemakers level of graphics, some, but not too much.  Good examples are
shown on the following photos:

http://www.wavemakers-synth.com/245.html
http://www.wavemakers-synth.com/308.html
http://www.wavemakers-synth.com/wm4pic21.html  

> c) change knobs/add colored knobs

Different size knobs are okay, but this won't buy you much in 1U or 2U
panels.  You still won't be able to fit more controls in. To me the UEG
controls are too small and cramped, but there is an intermediate PKES
knob between that and the standard MOTM that might be okay. Larger knobs
are also available for that special control, like a Frequency Shifter
frequency knob. :-) I don't like colored knobs, it reminds me too much
of the current plastic dayglo synthesizer designs, even if Buchla
preceeded them.

> d) not be "on grid"

Rather, have multiple grids for component placements. This would also
help differentiate modules.  Again, this is tough to do in 1U or 2U.

> e) place jacks somewhere except across the bottom

Along a vertical column would be okay as long as no controls were in
that column, otherwise I'd say no.  Definitely nothing at the top.

A few ideas for graphics enhancements are shown on a prototype Schaeffer
panel, GIF image located here:
http://www.wavemakers-synth.com/motm/synthacon_vcf.gif . I would have
rounded the corners on the white outlines, but Schaeffer's panel drawing
program won't let you do this.  To me this is a bit less severe that the
sharp corners. Adding simple sections visually distinguishes this module
from others. This also shows an alternate tick mark scheme for knobs
that is easier to scope: thin lines between small dots.  One final
recommendation, real parameters such as frequencies in Hertz for those
controls where it makes sense.  For a VCA and modulation controls, the
standard 0 to 10 marking is the most common, however.

I wouldn't limit the changes to just Buchla inspired modules, by the
way...

John Loffink
jloffink@... 

The Microtonal Synthesis Web Site
http://www.microtonal-synthesis.com/

The Wavemakers Modular and Integrated Synthesizer Web Site
http://www.wavemakers-synth.com/