Eurorack: discussion, advice, learning, questions

[ElectricaNada]

Thanks very much. Sounds like a cool concept.

[Starthief]

I felt like I didn’t have full control over the SMR, compared to other oscillators. It was interesting to play with but not really what I was hoping for at the time.

[hinterlands]

I’m wondering if anyone has any experience with the AI Synthesis Matrix Mixer? I’ve been wanting a matrix mixer for a while but haven’t been able to spare the hp for the Doepfer one. The AI module is only 10hp (vs. 20hp for the doepfer) but loses 1 row of mixing and the inverting capabilities of the Doepfer one. Plus mini pots. Still, it looks like a good value at $125. Thoughts?

AI008 Eurorack Matrix Mixer - AI Synthesis

[ElectricaNada]

The polarizer offset on the Doepfer is a major advantage. Very, very useful for sequencing, and other applications as well. You’ll need a whole other module paired with the AI to get the same functionality.

[simonvanderveldt]

There’s one on it’s way to me. It was supposed to be here before Christmas, so still one day left
Assuming it arrives this week I’ll probably build it next weekend, can give some feedback after that.
I decided to try it because I want some effect sends but wanted to try a more modular approach vs a full mixer setup with sends first.

Not about the module itself, but about AI Synthesis: I did ask some questions over mail and I got very quick and helpful answers so off to a good start

[hinterlands]

Right, I forgot about the offsets. Another plus for the Doepfer. Do you just use the offsets to create a 4 step sequence (via a sequential switch) or are you using them to offset other sequences? I was planning on using gates from the NLC FF Chaos to derive sequences from whichever one of these matrix mixers I end up going for.

[ElectricaNada]

With a switch and some cv input, the a138m becomes a 16-note sequencer.

[Starthief]

Even at 20HP I almost feel like the A138m is a little bit tightly spaced and could have been bigger And based on my experience with a Sputnik 5-Step, I think mini-pots would be fine.

I have two Shades in my case, so I forget sometimes the A138m can do offsets…

[Wind-up_Bird]

I bought one a couple of months ago and I’ve been using it as my main mixer on my 104hp skiff. I think it’s pretty versatile. It’s dc coupled, 10hp and it’s a really affordable matrix mixer.

[shellfritsch]

Also been considering this as a routing buss. Concerned the trim pots will be annoying…

[hinterlands]

How often do you use bipolar mode in your feedback patching? I feel like that’s a bigger deal to me than the offsets.

[Starthief]

I usually at least try bipolar mode.

[Pineyb]

I use bipolar a lot… often with modules that only accept unipolar voltage. Stuff drops out completely and gets weird at the thresholds.

[MGFM]

Hello, Sorry for such a naive post.

I’m very excited and curious about the Teletype so was thinking I’d like to make a small case with it. A little Teletype playground. I’ve been looking at videos of the Just Type firmware for JF and I wanted to ask about it. I saw in this video https://youtu.be/qo5OGvRD4_c it looks like the different outputs have a shape to it but there’s no envelope plugged into it (from what I can tell). I don’t have JF so don’t know it, I’m wondering, do you need envelopes and VCA’s to drive it like this? I’d like to add another voice source to it something small like the 6hp Plaits but I’d like some advice as to what I can get to make best use of the Teletype in such a small environment.

Here’s what I’m thinking so far:

[sns]

I’m thinking of doing the same (will build a TT hopefully sooner than later), you could maybe add a TXo(+) if you want up to 4 other voices

[SimonKirby]

Teletype and Just Friends are the ultimate two module combo in my opinion. With TT, JF can turn into a 6 voice polyphonic synth which is completely self contained. In other words it generates its own envelopes. Stuff I’d add to your rack would be a couple of distings so you can have a sample based voice for percussion and/or some FX (reverb/delay etc). I’d probably go for this over the W because i think it’s easier to use. I don’t think you need Pams if you have teletype. For the ultimate sequencing package add ansible and grid. The newest beta firmware allows you to play just friends as a polyphonic synth direct from the grid via ansible. It’s amazing! Finally, another good pairing would be three sisters as you don’t have any filtering in here. (Although disting would do that for you too if you’re short of space/funds).

[Jonny]

This is just my opinion, but I would stay away from modules that require any menu diving, including Pam’s Workout/Disting/etc.

Perhaps add Three Sisters so you have a nice filter that can also be a voice if you want one. I’d also add Cold Mac since it can do so much.

You don’t need envelopes to drive Just Friends in Just Type mode, so you’re good there.

[oscillateur]

I recently downsized from a 7U/84 HP case to a 4U/62 HP case (Intellijel Palette), i.e. quite similar in size to what you’re mentioning and my setup is based on a Teletype + a bunch of things that it can communicate with. I also have at least 3 (obvious) ways to get overdriven sounds, because this is something I like :). And I can make interesting things without using the TT at all, which is good in terms of versatility.

The 1U free space will likely be filled with a dual VCA, but I’m not certain yet.

One caveat about that setup though : the Teletype + backpack + i2c connections is a tight fit. The Telex expanders and W/ were also tight. It can fit but you have to be very careful with your power cables, so it works if you want an instrument that will not change much over time, more likely to be a pain if you plan on changing the TT’s location all the time.

[desolationjones]

Polyend Anywhere: does anyone experience tuning issues when using this PSU? I wonder if I might have it pushed to the max…

[MGFM]

Thanks for the replies all. Yeah @oscillateur looks like a good system! Is the Tx0 a DIY module? Not sure I can see where to get one.

@Jonny thanks for the advice about Cold Mac and Three Sisters, I’ve fit them in

@SimonKirby thanks for clearing that up about JF sounds awesome.