MOTM

Hi all.

I'm really glad this subject has been brought up.

First off, if there is a "minimum" of format change for these modules I
choose to echo Mr. Brester's statement:

I'd like to see a style that
would blend in nicely with other MOTM modules, while at the same time
having
distinctive differences. Like two knob sizes -- the standard and a
smaller
size, different jack arrangement -- maybe co-locating some jacks near
associated pots, and possibly a different grid. A different typeface or
tick mark scheme could be nice.

Whatever the particulars, I'd like to see a consistent design theme for
the
whole 200 series. It should pay homage to Buchla and still be instantly
recognizable as MOTM


But to that I'd also add.....

Why not experiment a bit?


I'll start by saying it is my *opinion* that, for my uses, the current
MOTM is too big, and is limited in its use of panel space by oversized
knobs. Furthermore it is my *opinion* that it pays too much homage to a
retro-Moog look that, while it is a good selling point for a target
market of folks that always wanted one, doesn't reflect the more
progressive nature of Paul's design philosophy (and is way too big!!).

I bought MOTM for what was on the inside AND what was behind the
company--not what it looked like. It is my assumption that a few others
did as well.

Anyway. In short I ask "why not go nuts".

Silver panels with colored overlay. Small info graphics that might give
you ideas while you are patching or provide you with needed info.
Banana jacks where you can fit them. Votlage control of EVERYTHING.
Smaller knobs where appropriate. Sliders even! In terms of the haptics
of a device pulling and pushing are (duh) a much different sensation
that twisting a knob. Maybe this makes better/worse but at least a
*different* interaction.

In 10 years will MOTM still be a wall of back Moog-ish panels w/ 1/4"
jacks and the same white lettering? Will every retro filter have been
cloned? I hope not. Maybe if we all keep buying this stuff Paul will
have the resources to make modules that *have never existed
before*--voltage control of an I-Pod? I dunno--not practical but might
be interesting.

I think that Paul's 500 series modules is just the tip of the iceberg
in terms of directions MOTM could go.

If Paul decides to release a module housed inside an old "Hungry,
Hungry Hippos" game and it sounds good/new/crazy I'd buy it. Surely
there must be some room for experimentation.


Keep it beep.

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Actually, I too agree that "going nuts" on the 200 series could be very
cool. The only truly necessary MOTM compatibility is electrical. Let
psychedelic colors reign! But there is a caveat. A radical departure from
the MOTM style could be viewed in marketing terms as a new product line. A
new product line can be costly to develop and risky, but if a market exists
it can be worth the gamble. The MOTM quality reputation would follow any
new product line from Synthesis Technology. But I didn't think Paul was
considering that much of a departure, and hence my more conservative take.
Even though *we* know the quality is internal, the MOTM brand has a
recognition factor in the panel style displayed prominently in the website
photos that adds great business value to the product. It would be smart to
"leverage" that recognition factor for new products, as the marketing
weasels would say. But business is also about taking risks.

Okay, now I have to read the other 30 comments on the 200 series I haven't
reached yet :).

-Richard Brewster

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