MOTM

At one time I intended to be a purist and not buy any module containing 
a microprocessor.  Part of my reticence was due to the lack of kits in 
this genre.  That didn't last long.  First I bought an Encore Frequency 
Shifter.  Then of course a MOTM-650.  Added to my collection now are the 
Encore UEG, Modcan Dual Quantizer, Modcan CV Recorder, and, soon, the 
Modcan VCDO.  Of course I want a Cloud Generator too!  I probably 
represent a small customer niche, but what I like about such modules is 
that they sport analog-like user interfaces (the MOTM-650 not 
withstanding its menu system).  I like being able to set up modules 
using knobs and buttons.  I do not wish to hook up a computer to my MOTM 
to control it.  (I did try it to get a MIDI soft sequencer going - oh 
the pain - the pain of trying to control my MOTM with a mouse.)  If you 
wander on over to the Modcan website and check out the latest Modcan B 
module, you can see the analog interface trend being continued there.  
The Quad Envelope Generator 60B contains 4 digital envelope generators, 
each with 6 parameters.  It's is programmed with 6 knobs and 3 buttons, 
with a few LEDs to keep track of where you are.  I like that sort of 
interface!  It is clean and simple, and powerful.  Settings are saved 
between power cycles.  So you have a small programmable module without 
any screen, even an LCD.  I'm impressed.  I like this trend, and I hope 
Paul takes note.  I'm not opposed to an LCD if there is room.  I don't 
mind embedded microprocessors.  But you can see why I lurked silently 
over the thread about how to extend the Cloud Generator be controlled by 
USB, MIDI, Ethernet, Bluetooth and iPhone.  Give me some knobs and 
switches.  I'm old fashioned.  I love to kick back and play without 
having to boot up a computer.

If this seemed like a rant, it wasn't.  There are many ways to control a 
synthesizer and using a computer is a valid one.  I'm just offering a 
point of view.

Richard Brewster
http://www.pugix.com