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In-depth Feature:
Modulating Modular Madness: two MOTM users share their experiences with
us
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I decided that starting
a modular system of my own looked like an excellent idea. In fact, I
thought it looked like such a good idea that I decided Sonic State users
need to hear more about it.
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Introduction
While searching for a fun and educational summer project, I ran across the Synthesis Technology webpage. Synthesis Technology is the company that designs, constructs, and sells MOTM (Mother of all Modulars) modular synthesizers. Most remember modular synthesizers as the massive instruments that artists like Keith Emerson played inside empty football stadiums nearly a decade before the digital revolution. Truthfully, modular synthesizers are extremely versatile instruments that are each a unique composition of a bunch of individual sound creating and shaping units called “modules”. The individual modules are connected with patch chords to generate voices. After downloading and reading the MOTM catalog, I decided that starting a modular system of my own looked like an excellent idea. In fact, I thought it looked like such a good idea that I decided Sonic State users need to hear more about it. Basically, MOTM modular systems are high quality units that are purchased one module at a time. Which is to say you can buy a number of modules (VCO’s, VCF’s, VCA’s, EG’s, …) and connect them with patch chords to create a comprehensive synthesizer, or you can buy individual modules (Multiplexers, VCF’s, …) to shape the sounds of instruments that you already use. Depending on a musician’s needs and budget, a MOTM synthesizer can be as small as a breadbox or as large as a moving van. Every module is designed to fit conveniently into a 19” equipment rack and can be purchased as a kit or as a fully assembled and tested unit. Because each kit comes with instructions as well as circuit diagrams and descriptions, they sound like fun projects as well as great ways to learn about electronic instrument circuits. There are so many modules you can buy/build, and MOTM releases a new module every 4-6 weeks. To get your own catalog (PDF format file) which includes detailed descriptions of each module and other important information, visit the Synthesis Technology page (http://www.synthtech.com). The only thing missing in the catalog is the Analog Lag Processor that will be released June 1. If you have further questions, contact Paul Schreiber at synth1@airmail.net. Because I do not have any experience building or using MOTM systems, I contacted Paul Schreiber, the founder of MOTM, and he put me in contact with several veteran MOTM users. Both Larry Hendry and Aaron Swihart were kind enough to take the time to help us out and write about their MOTM adventures…
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