Veils is an actually amplifying VCA. If you turn it to the logarithmic side, it will amplify up to 20db, which is enough to use it as a preamp to bring line level into eurorack, or as a distortion for already eurorack level signals. Maybe someone will find this as useful as me :)
@@nelen_co Well i do Not own a Tallin but in the manual is stated that it has up to 18db of gain. So it definitely amplifies and can also be used as a preamp!
I just got an antumbra dvca (half of a veils) and i’m loving it! Clips beautifully and very useful for bringing line level devices into the modular environment.
Hi Omri, I also don't like Beads auto gain function but you can deactivate it and set an input gain value of your choice (which means you can actually distort the input signal and it sounds great). Also, the 1U row in the center should be mandatory by law.
Real talk, good advice on the VCA's. Appreciated because I never understood the saying, "you could never have too many VCA's". Thanks for clearing things up. Much respect 🙏 Bless
An attenuator attenuates. A VCA by design and function, both attenuates and amplifies 'amplitude' dynamically according to the modulations of a CV input, although a VCA can also be used just to attenuate a signal. People who invent synths don't make misconceptions, they follow the laws of physics and apply electronic principles to pragmatically build the things we play with. It's a misconception to suggest a raw analog oscillator isn't already at a healthy maximum velocity, we can apply more gain to that oscillator in order to create saturation effects, but that doesn't mean a VCA is only attenuating a signal. Amplitude is relative to the power of the wave, until that range is defined there's no amplitude to define. What you have is merely the maximum voltage an oscillator can generate at any given frequency. VCA's and envelopes define amplitude, as a filter defines frequency and harmonic content.
I can totally understand that the big case was overwhelming for you! Option paralysis is why I don't really get along with VCV rack either. Right now I have a 6U 104HP case and I can detach a 3U 52HP section of it, because the case is modular too. So, when I want to focus on a module in depth, it goes into the small 52HP section and I will only use that case for a little while. And right on about the VCAs! The name totally confused me when I got started and the second VCA I built can amplify and attenuvert, because the usual kind of voltage controlled attenuator style seemed somewhat limiting.
Yes, having multiple smaller cases might be a good option. It's funny because I can really dive deep into VCV and explore and enjoy my time with it without feeling overwhelmed. But then again, it's all inside a screen so it's maybe visually easier to follow? I don't know...
VCV has a "blank page" problem where you have to start from ~nothing~ and build something with practically limitless options. But, unlike a big modular, you can copy and paste, move big blocks of modules around for clearer signal flow, etc., so many of the logistics are easier. But the work flow of hardware is really different. You start with a limited set of options that is physically right in front of you. Adding a patch cord feels so much more deliberate. And, of course, it's playable in a way that software can never be.
@@OmriCohen-Music In VCV rack you'll only have the modules on screen that you actually want to patch, so I think that can be a bit of a help. With a big case there is always this pull to patch as many modules as possible simply because they're right in front of you. Turns into a mess really quickly. And of course option paralysis on top of that. Separating it in different smaller racks definitely helps me keep things focused.
@@GeorgeLocke Yeah, blank page syndrome is pretty annoying. It helps to have habits or presets. I tend to use VCV rack more as a set and forget effect that slowly modulates itself. The hardware modular I actually play, twist knobs etc. More of an actual instrument for me. Of course there are ways to get that with VCV too, but I just can't be bothered to do midi mapping and then the order of knobs always changes which messes with muscle memory. I just don't find it as enjoyable and I have less of a connection with it.
It is nice to see a vinca overview; it is my go to VCA. In order to keep focus with my system (6UX168 + 6UX140) it is broken into blocks of Treatment+Output (mix, EQ, dynamics, interfaces), Modulation, and Creation even though some modules cross over. Each has an Instruo Lion somewhat dedicated to it to make life easier as well. This seems similar to this great presentation you have done here.
Great update Omri, thank you!! We started our Eurorack journey pretty much the same time (actually you started my journey with VCV before). I went from two Moogs to a huge 756HP case. And now back to the exact small size (and case) you are using. I only took the computer out of the equation and use mostly Elektron boxes or the T-1 to sequence stuff. Anyhow it is a great ride!
Cool - the case totally makes sense to me and that never happens for me watching small case walk thrus. I tend to like large modules that don't do much and traditional basic synthesis w/ lots of modulation and I see you totally have me covered here. Inspiring - restrained and playable choices!
Been with you since the start of this journey Omri (and longer) and great to catch up. Interesting what you say about Beads as I have struggled with it for all the reasons you mentioned and I to had such high hopes. Same with the Disting Mk4 which just to many options. Anyway, loved catching up and look forward to your new series.
The technique I use with sliding nuts is to portion the nuts all the way along, so that typically between the two nuts holding a module, there might be at 2 to 8 nuts (depending on module width) in between the two nuts holding the module. This allows me to replace modules without having the problem of insufficient nuts, which would then require me to unscrew a bunch of modules to the left or right in order to get more nuts.
Love the middle 1u row! If you make your own ribbon cables using the intellijel 1u modules which interface with the case's IO is very doable! I learned how to do it to move my midi 1u to the far right of an upside down palette 62. Isn't hard to learn or master, cheap as chips, and now I'm making custom cable lengths for everything to keep clutter down 👍
Thanks Omri, very interesting. I was fascinated that you dislike the "tyranny of choice" that many modules provide, but you love the many options that Neóni gives! And your point about VCAs is very well-made.
Thanks :) I guess that what I meant is that I'm overwhelmed by modules with many modes like Plaits, and the Disting, but I'm happy to explore modules that can do different things depending on how you patch stuff like Neoni, Rampage, Planar, and so on. It's not about clicking a button and getting a different module, it's by finding paths and exploring the voltage itself. Does this make sense?
@@OmriCohen-Music It makes sense to me and I have somewhat the same thing as you Omri but a bit different. I think the keyword here is: Immediacy! Or hands-on, or patchability or one-knob-per-function. The direct experience of manipulation rather than programming a computer. In that sense Rampage is actually the perfect module. It's completely hands on and immediate, but also like an analog computer that can do so much just by patching, not changing a menu. It's interesting what you learn about yourself when you have used the modules, that you could not have forseen beforehand. For example, I have learned that in modular I don't like menu-diving, the feeling of programming a computer, for me it's "anti-modular" and takes away the fun. Also I have learned that I hate trimpots for knobs - they are simply too small and uncomfortable and feel hostile to use and it takes away the pleasure. I think Make Noise and Befaco have the right idea where proportions go. It's so tempting to get the smallest modules that can do the most and cram as many of them as possible into a case, but I have learned that I don't actually like that, it would be better doing it on a computer, it takes away the point and pleasure of modular, but it's a real conflict, especially economically. But I think I have learned that it's better to have a few great modules with great feel and ergonomics than lots of tiny ones, because you'll enjoy it much more and therefor use it and patch it much more, you just want to touch it. So if I would have any say in the industry (which I obviously don't at all) it would be: Resist the smallness, keep it human, tactile, immediate, comfortable and enjoyable. Sorry about the rant :-) Anyway, interesting to follow your journey Omri and thanks for sharing!
Hey Omri, .. good presentation. Videos like this, matter, .. to people like me. Thanks .. I'm going to respond to a post down a few posts, concerning MI Veils, too. .. :)
Hi Omri! I don't know if at 15:20 you were talking about Repetita Versio (that is I think the only looper available for the Versio platform other than the micro looper included in Multi Versio), but if that's the case I'm the developer and I'll be happy to answer any questions you may have. Other than that, keep up the great work, I often got inspiration from yours videos!
I made a 18u case cause I thought I needed it. Man was I wrong. My patches were literally terrible with it. I spent more time trying to do complex full songs on it and it just never worked for me. The sweet spot for me has been a 6u 126hp case I built myself.
us electronics nerds think of it as an amplifier with a gain less than 1.0 sometimes VCAs that have gain in them (>1.0) are useful. I rather like Doepfer A-130-2 for pushing a little gain into some of my filters. gain of
I have Beads, and I'm also very annoyed by the auto-gain feature. But you can manually adjust it by pressing and holding the sample rate button while turning the feedback knob. After this the gain will not auto-adjust anymore, not even between power cycles. The other thing that annoys me is that it doesn't remember the seed button state over power cycles, and is always enabled after powering it on. I don't want any settings in my rack to change over power cycles. That you can always continue from where you left off, even if you power it down inbetween, is something I like with Eurorack. Beads ruins it. I don't want to go through every module's settings after powering the rack.
Yeah, I can relate. I always have to double, triple, quadruple check everything before I shut down the case so I know I don't lose anything. I also started writing notes of things I have to set up to go back to the same point I left off.
I always enjoy these updates, not just for the gear tour and changes there, but also how the way you think about your setup changes. That is a cool perspective of looking at the 7U as a palette and switching things out depending on what you are doing vs having it all there at once. It makes the modular even more modular :) I feel the same about things like Plaits and Disting... Did you develop the patch at the end into anything else? It sounds so nice. Will be interesting to see what next year brings!
Hey… the extra case for the ES-9 and other stuff is a really good idea. I think, I will also do it at some point. So you can do some standalone Eurorack stuff as well as hybrid with this extra case. And you have a bit of extra space in your main rack. Brilliant! Perhaps I will abuse my Arturia Rackbrute 3U for this purpose. We will see…
I love eurorack and have the Intellijel 7u Pallette with Morphagene, Mimiophone, Plaits, pnw, a doepfer dual vca, and a envelope gen 2hp module. I understand the basic concept of it all, and I can make fun noise, but i really want to have a much deeper understanding of it all. My problem is that I got into syntlesis around 4 years ago and bought a bunch of gear all at once. By doing this, I never gave myself enough time to properly learn each and every piece.
Yeah, these things need time but it's never too late :) Try concentrating on one module or aspect for a few days and see how it goes. For example, try exploring the idea behind a subtractive voice, try exploring what you can do with VCAs, try different uses of the Mimeophon. I'm sure you will find inspiration by limiting yourself to one module or aspect. Oh, and most important, when you do this, don't be in the mindset of building a full patch or creating a track. Just consider this as practicing like you would practice scales on a piano. Have fun!
Yo! Good to see a progress report. I knda went in both directions lol. I've been enjoying a 9u myself. A Pittsburgh structure 360, a bit bulky but I dig the size. I also went big and ended up with a great deal on a 19u Needham case which has become more of a library from which I pull modules for the 9u. Maybe this was suggested but you should slap some rubber feet on the back of the small Doepfer case so when you set it on it's back it's more stable? Cheers!
Yeah, using a bigger case as a library is really helpful. It makes it easier to switch things without dealing with boxes all the time. And that's a great idea with the rubber feet! Thanks :)
haha really enjoyed the why sell section. im on the same boat got MI beads, plaits and MK4 and I barely use just because there are sooooo many options and actually kill my workflow because I have to read the prints to see what's what.... thanks for confirming
I’ve got a 9U Doepfer case and a bunch of digital modules and I’ve never had a problem with power. That’s interesting. I remember someone else saying they didn’t have enough power.
Hi Omri, the video outro is great. Nice eye candy. I noticed the beautiful symmetrical waveforms in the data mordax in XY mode. What was being feed that gives it that shape??? Thanks 🎉🎉🎉
I expected your reasoning for selling the 112 to have to do with the instability and bugs it has at times, but I agree, the lack of polyphony is unfortunate. My ad-hoc fix is to replace the quantizer scales with chords and change the setting for grains to maintain tuning. This makes it so that overlapping long grains (when not triggering simultaneously) can play polyphonically. However, it's fairly limited seeing as how the grains can't begin simultaneously. Thanks for this video!
I was looking at the 112 but ended up getting Lubadh. I find myself still attracted to the 112 but I was surprised that it (to my knowledge) doesn't have separate outputs for the loops and the grains, if it had those I would probably have bought one. I'll make do for now with Lubadh and Beads (which I absolutely adore by the way).
I can confirm: it's possible to do 3u-1u-3u set up on Stealth Case and have it connected to case outs - there's one 3pin ribbon cable that you can extend to a middle row.
I only have the too many options frame of mind coming from the use of Empress Zoia/Euroburo and Poly Hector and miRack and VCV Rack. With such a large number of options, maybe the suggestion often made by users of Zoia is to write down your idea and sketch it. I have used this way of patching before and it helps. Pushing yourself into a set of constraints can help.
Yeah, I would love to have a Chornoblob2 once as well. I hardly use the Mimeophon as a delay, to be honest. I usually use it either as a voice or for looping.
Thanks so much for posting this video. It was really helpful. Especially the part about Beads and the Expert Sleepers Disting. Modules that you have to have a list with to recall all the settings are useless to me. 84 functions in one module. Ridiculous.
Hi! I actually took a break from hardware last year, so that's why there's no "4 years into Eurorack" video, but I did go back to it eventually and composed quite a few tracks, so I hope to make another video this year with an update :)
Really curious how this will look in may 2023. I am expecting to see a second 7U, maybe a Shared System case. As long as you're working with 7U cases, you'll be fine as long as you think in 'systems' instead of just filling space. And you're an expert on 'systematic patching' :).
You know something, I'm thinking of this for quite some time now. Having sorts of systems or instruments to work with and experiment with instead of one ever changing instrument. I think that it will create a more focused workflow. We'll see :)
@@OmriCohen-Music Definitely works for me! Shared System, Shuttle System, Black & Gold Easel, Techno System, Grainstation, etc. I will never get a big modular wall where you can't reach the other side without ethernet :)
@@OmriCohen-Music I now have four cases with permanent modules and three cases which often change content depending on a video subject or experimentation. I have a duplicate Shared System (black & silver) and many duplicates of Mutable stuff (plaits, tides, marbles, stages, clouds). It never feels out of control, but actually, it is... I have way more modules than space. It's really strong when you're capable of selling stuff and making choices. I am not that strong and very often a new module breathes new life into the old ones... I am screwed but loving it.
I know what you mean about Beads, it seems to be a module that has had lot of expectations I think. On Mod Wiggler, there's a sort of mini discussion going on from time-to-time from those that love it, to those who (as you say) just don't get it. I've also had mixed feelings, but thought I'd keep it for the moment, and sell later if needed - there's plenty of people out there ready to buy one (at a reduced price). To be honest, coming from Supercollider, I've always been used to 'making' the granulator you need. In Eurorack, I'd love to try out a few side-by-side over a couple of weeks, but that's just not really possible, unless you have a good friend working in one of the big shops who'd let you take away 2 or 3 for a comparison. Lastly, to add to your comment about the wavetable in Beads (and the gain), indeed it seems odd there's no individual control possibility. The auto gain could be simply a attenuverter (like the others) that you turn CW for auto, and then as you turn it back CCW, it's in manual - ff > pp. The same applies for wavetable/granulator, a push button like the seed button - on/off. BTW, apparently Emelie has the gain problem on a to-do list.
@@OmriCohen-Music I saw that (Microcell), and indeed it looks very interesting indeed, in fact it's exactly what I'm looking for. However, if you know where to buy one (without ordering from the states), I'd be very interested to know. All the listed stockists don't sell it - which is a bit odd.
@@cardboardmusic It's quite an interesting module. I especially like the in\out VCAs. Super handy. I also couldn't find it anywhere so I ended up ordering it from them directly. I had to collect it from customs and pay extra... :( But, I use it a lot also after so long so it was worth it I guess.
Thanks! Plaits can do so many different things, it's hard to find one module that can do it all... What do you like about Plaits? The VCOs? The drums? The noise?
@@Tim.Traveler Oh, ok. For a VCO, I have Neoni for quite some time, and I really like it. I also got the AfterLater Cascades recently, and it's also very unique, and probably more affordable. Both have multiple wave outputs, and various ways to change the timbre. For noise, I would definitely recommend the Befaco Noise Plethora. You get three sources, and three filters, which is pretty amazing.
About Instruo Athru, I'd really like so see a presentation of it. Maybe it is not "thaaat" magical, but personally I'm a bit low on the oscillator-side and use STOs which I want to further build on. So I looked into Wavefolders and stumbled over it.
I just took the plunge into eurorack. I started out good but I got lost in bad purchases with no real focus. Your channel is really helping me start to figure things out. I love your break down of vca's. I have an intellijel quad vca. I wonder if it actually amplifies the signal or just attenuates it?
If a circuit has an input of 0 - 5V and an output of 0 - 5V I think it's quite a stretch to call it amplification; attenuation is the right word because it describes what it does unless it's a VCA which actually CAN boost the signal beyond the input level, in which case it starts to make sense to talk about amplification. So I'm with "in general VCA means Voltage Controlled Attenuator".
The signal is by electronic convention controlled by precision of voltage. Amplification is a power gain. Watts is volts times amps. If there is no voltage gain there can still be a power by current gain. In fact current gain is necessary to hold accuracy of the signal voltage.
Well, yeah, as I mentioned, technically, it can be an amplifier but I'm more interested in the practical result and, most of the time, the result will only be attenuation.
There is a current gain hence the "power supply". But yes there is precedent for naming in an example of power amplifiers. It does not make communicative sense to have "power power amplifiers" instead of small-signal power amplifiers as a contra. I think the "Vortex" effects unit demonstrated there is precedent for renaming complexity on front panel labellings.
It’s a huge 19HP but Double Andore MK2 from IME / The Harvestman is freaking wonderful Also got the Optomix V2 35:16 but it’s colors the sound So not my go to for many things
And branches👽..bro..i think u forget this cool modul..but please tell me some patches with it! Thanks for ya Videos❤️🔥 u make a good job! Best wishes from Vienna 🇦🇹 🖖
I already have a intellijel quadratt as you do, I suppose you could do much the same with the quadratt that what you do with the instruo vinca, couldn´t you?
Yes, I am. I love Arbhar and I think it's an amazing instrument but as I mention in the video, I built this case for a series of videos I was working on so I had Arbhar in a different case :)
I haven't used the granular mode at all. Based on your description, I doubt you'd enjoy owning it unless you really want one of its modes. For myself, I am perfectly happy to go back and forth with the manual while patching, so I am more or less the ideal market for it. Even so, I am not at all sure I'd like the mk4 - having an actual screen is key. It is definitely not for everyone.
תודה על הסרטון! יש סיכוי שתדבר פעם על העלות של כל התחביב הזה.. איך עושים את זה? איך לא מבזבזים יותר מדי כסף על ניסוי וטעיה.. ובכלל, מהם הפתרונות החלופיים והזולים לבעלי תקציב מועט שמשתוקקים למודולר..?
אהלן! אני לא כל כך בטוח אם יש פתרונות זולים יותר. אפילו אם תקנה רק יד שנייה ו\או תבנה מודולים לבד, עדיין, לאט לאט, אתה תוציא די הרבה כסף. רק הכבלים זה כבר עניין יקר... אבל זה ככה עם כל כלי נגינה. אני בטוח שמערכת תופים נחמדה עולה אפילו יותר. גם גיטרה עם אפקטים והכל, אם אתה קונה משהו איכותי, זה יעלה די הרבה.
A nice guitar setup with an amp and a few pedals will cost you quite a lot of money, and that's just one instrument. I believe that if you stay focused and know what you want, you can get a really nice modular setup for not a lot of money.
Yeah, but that's a sort of a library I have and I don't use all of them at once. The number of modules I use at once is a lot smaller then with the 13U.
In terms of Scion, it sure can feel like random voltages and it is indeed very different from the root signal but I just think its kind of neat that it doesnt give out voltages when its not connected to living things. Also it is dependand on the plant, you'd get diffrent results from different plants or when you do certain things to them. www.theoryofpaul.net/plants/poster-07.pdf "Results and conclusions" For Studio use just have a big leafed plant beside your case :D
Veils is an actually amplifying VCA. If you turn it to the logarithmic side, it will amplify up to 20db, which is enough to use it as a preamp to bring line level into eurorack, or as a distortion for already eurorack level signals. Maybe someone will find this as useful as me :)
BoredBrain INTRFX is a pedal sized box made to do that too, for people like me who have zero hp remaining in the case.
Do you know if the Xaoc Tallin is amplifying as well (beyond 12 o'clock)? Seems like it is but I don't have an oscilloscope.
@@nelen_co Well i do Not own a Tallin but in the manual is stated that it has up to 18db of gain. So it definitely amplifies and can also be used as a preamp!
@@anastasia0zardonova oh right on, thanks
I just got an antumbra dvca (half of a veils) and i’m loving it! Clips beautifully and very useful for bringing line level devices into the modular environment.
Hi Omri, I also don't like Beads auto gain function but you can deactivate it and set an input gain value of your choice (which means you can actually distort the input signal and it sounds great). Also, the 1U row in the center should be mandatory by law.
Hi, yeah, I remember this was added, but it was too late for me I think...
Real talk, good advice on the VCA's. Appreciated because I never understood the saying, "you could never have too many VCA's". Thanks for clearing things up. Much respect 🙏 Bless
Cheers!
Thank you so much for this! The whole idea of the interface case is great, and I will definitely keep this in mind whenever I get into eurorack 🙏🏻
Cheers!
An attenuator attenuates.
A VCA by design and function, both attenuates and amplifies 'amplitude' dynamically according to the modulations of a CV input, although a VCA can also be used just to attenuate a signal.
People who invent synths don't make misconceptions, they follow the laws of physics and apply electronic principles to pragmatically build the things we play with.
It's a misconception to suggest a raw analog oscillator isn't already at a healthy maximum velocity, we can apply more gain to that oscillator in order to create saturation effects, but that doesn't mean a VCA is only attenuating a signal.
Amplitude is relative to the power of the wave, until that range is defined there's no amplitude to define.
What you have is merely the maximum voltage an oscillator can generate at any given frequency.
VCA's and envelopes define amplitude, as a filter defines frequency and harmonic content.
What a delightful song at the end. And so much insights in this video. Thank you.
Thanks!
Mind expanded. Thank you for teaching me something today!
Cheers!
Fantastic explanation of vcas and lots of interesting ideas! 👍
Thanks so much!
I think 6u-9u is the sweet spot. You won't be able to fit in everything you want but you'll have enough room for everything you need.
Yeah, that sounds about right
I’ve got 12…. Gulp! Not getting any more though. 2x rackbrutes stitched together is pretty ideal for me. (4x80hp)
I can totally understand that the big case was overwhelming for you! Option paralysis is why I don't really get along with VCV rack either. Right now I have a 6U 104HP case and I can detach a 3U 52HP section of it, because the case is modular too. So, when I want to focus on a module in depth, it goes into the small 52HP section and I will only use that case for a little while. And right on about the VCAs! The name totally confused me when I got started and the second VCA I built can amplify and attenuvert, because the usual kind of voltage controlled attenuator style seemed somewhat limiting.
Yes, having multiple smaller cases might be a good option. It's funny because I can really dive deep into VCV and explore and enjoy my time with it without feeling overwhelmed. But then again, it's all inside a screen so it's maybe visually easier to follow? I don't know...
VCV has a "blank page" problem where you have to start from ~nothing~ and build something with practically limitless options. But, unlike a big modular, you can copy and paste, move big blocks of modules around for clearer signal flow, etc., so many of the logistics are easier.
But the work flow of hardware is really different. You start with a limited set of options that is physically right in front of you. Adding a patch cord feels so much more deliberate. And, of course, it's playable in a way that software can never be.
@@OmriCohen-Music In VCV rack you'll only have the modules on screen that you actually want to patch, so I think that can be a bit of a help. With a big case there is always this pull to patch as many modules as possible simply because they're right in front of you. Turns into a mess really quickly. And of course option paralysis on top of that. Separating it in different smaller racks definitely helps me keep things focused.
@@GeorgeLocke Yeah, blank page syndrome is pretty annoying. It helps to have habits or presets. I tend to use VCV rack more as a set and forget effect that slowly modulates itself. The hardware modular I actually play, twist knobs etc. More of an actual instrument for me. Of course there are ways to get that with VCV too, but I just can't be bothered to do midi mapping and then the order of knobs always changes which messes with muscle memory. I just don't find it as enjoyable and I have less of a connection with it.
Super walkthrough. Thank you! And yes, very good point re VCA naming.
Glad you liked it!
Thanks for your videos Omri, they are greatly helpful and enjoyable! Peace
Thanks so much!
It is nice to see a vinca overview; it is my go to VCA. In order to keep focus with my system (6UX168 + 6UX140) it is broken into blocks of Treatment+Output (mix, EQ, dynamics, interfaces), Modulation, and Creation even though some modules cross over. Each has an Instruo Lion somewhat dedicated to it to make life easier as well. This seems similar to this great presentation you have done here.
Yes, having different cases set as different instruments is a great idea!
Great class!!
Thank you!
Great update Omri, thank you!! We started our Eurorack journey pretty much the same time (actually you started my journey with VCV before). I went from two Moogs to a huge 756HP case. And now back to the exact small size (and case) you are using. I only took the computer out of the equation and use mostly Elektron boxes or the T-1 to sequence stuff. Anyhow it is a great ride!
Yeah, Eurorack is a ride indeed :) Cheers!
A deep dive on the STO would be super interesting!
Cool - the case totally makes sense to me and that never happens for me watching small case walk thrus. I tend to like large modules that don't do much and traditional basic synthesis w/ lots of modulation and I see you totally have me covered here. Inspiring - restrained and playable choices!
So we’ll explained from beginning to end. Thanks Omri.
Cheers!
Been with you since the start of this journey Omri (and longer) and great to catch up. Interesting what you say about Beads as I have struggled with it for all the reasons you mentioned and I to had such high hopes. Same with the Disting Mk4 which just to many options. Anyway, loved catching up and look forward to your new series.
Hey, thanks so much! Yeah, sometimes things just don't click and that's also ok.
The technique I use with sliding nuts is to portion the nuts all the way along, so that typically between the two nuts holding a module, there might be at 2 to 8 nuts (depending on module width) in between the two nuts holding the module. This allows me to replace modules without having the problem of insufficient nuts, which would then require me to unscrew a bunch of modules to the left or right in order to get more nuts.
Great tip!
Love the middle 1u row!
If you make your own ribbon cables using the intellijel 1u modules which interface with the case's IO is very doable! I learned how to do it to move my midi 1u to the far right of an upside down palette 62.
Isn't hard to learn or master, cheap as chips, and now I'm making custom cable lengths for everything to keep clutter down 👍
Great video with great info. Sharing your experiences will help many. Thx👍🏻
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks for the walk through. Always informative and creative.
Thank you!
I enjoyed this video and your observations and opinions. Thanks for sharing them. Subscribed!
I appreciate it, thank you!
Very cool, loved the patch at the end.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks Omri, very interesting. I was fascinated that you dislike the "tyranny of choice" that many modules provide, but you love the many options that Neóni gives! And your point about VCAs is very well-made.
Thanks :) I guess that what I meant is that I'm overwhelmed by modules with many modes like Plaits, and the Disting, but I'm happy to explore modules that can do different things depending on how you patch stuff like Neoni, Rampage, Planar, and so on. It's not about clicking a button and getting a different module, it's by finding paths and exploring the voltage itself. Does this make sense?
@@OmriCohen-Music It makes sense to me and I have somewhat the same thing as you Omri but a bit different. I think the keyword here is: Immediacy! Or hands-on, or patchability or one-knob-per-function. The direct experience of manipulation rather than programming a computer. In that sense Rampage is actually the perfect module. It's completely hands on and immediate, but also like an analog computer that can do so much just by patching, not changing a menu. It's interesting what you learn about yourself when you have used the modules, that you could not have forseen beforehand. For example, I have learned that in modular I don't like menu-diving, the feeling of programming a computer, for me it's "anti-modular" and takes away the fun. Also I have learned that I hate trimpots for knobs - they are simply too small and uncomfortable and feel hostile to use and it takes away the pleasure. I think Make Noise and Befaco have the right idea where proportions go. It's so tempting to get the smallest modules that can do the most and cram as many of them as possible into a case, but I have learned that I don't actually like that, it would be better doing it on a computer, it takes away the point and pleasure of modular, but it's a real conflict, especially economically. But I think I have learned that it's better to have a few great modules with great feel and ergonomics than lots of tiny ones, because you'll enjoy it much more and therefor use it and patch it much more, you just want to touch it. So if I would have any say in the industry (which I obviously don't at all) it would be: Resist the smallness, keep it human, tactile, immediate, comfortable and enjoyable. Sorry about the rant :-) Anyway, interesting to follow your journey Omri and thanks for sharing!
@@OmriCohen-Music Yes indeed! Thanks, Omri.
I am 3 months in to my VCVrack2 discovery. I also have OCS (Overwhelming Choices Syndrome). Thank you Omri, great content as usual :)
Have fun!
Very interesting video. Really enjoyed it.
Glad you enjoyed it
That middle row is very cool… 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽
Hey Omri, .. good presentation. Videos like this, matter, .. to people like me. Thanks .. I'm going to respond to a post down a few posts, concerning MI Veils, too. .. :)
Thanks so much!
Hi Omri! I don't know if at 15:20 you were talking about Repetita Versio (that is I think the only looper available for the Versio platform other than the micro looper included in Multi Versio), but if that's the case I'm the developer and I'll be happy to answer any questions you may have. Other than that, keep up the great work, I often got inspiration from yours videos!
Yes! That's the one :) I have to give it a try! Thanks so much :)
I made a 18u case cause I thought I needed it. Man was I wrong. My patches were literally terrible with it. I spent more time trying to do complex full songs on it and it just never worked for me. The sweet spot for me has been a 6u 126hp case I built myself.
Yes, it seems like 6u\7u is a great size for staying focused.
I had no idea you could move the 1u row in the intellijel case, this information was worth the entry alone.
Cheers!
us electronics nerds think of it as an amplifier with a gain less than 1.0
sometimes VCAs that have gain in them (>1.0) are useful. I rather like Doepfer A-130-2 for pushing a little gain into some of my filters.
gain of
I have Beads, and I'm also very annoyed by the auto-gain feature. But you can manually adjust it by pressing and holding the sample rate button while turning the feedback knob. After this the gain will not auto-adjust anymore, not even between power cycles.
The other thing that annoys me is that it doesn't remember the seed button state over power cycles, and is always enabled after powering it on. I don't want any settings in my rack to change over power cycles. That you can always continue from where you left off, even if you power it down inbetween, is something I like with Eurorack. Beads ruins it. I don't want to go through every module's settings after powering the rack.
Yeah, I can relate. I always have to double, triple, quadruple check everything before I shut down the case so I know I don't lose anything. I also started writing notes of things I have to set up to go back to the same point I left off.
I always enjoy these updates, not just for the gear tour and changes there, but also how the way you think about your setup changes. That is a cool perspective of looking at the 7U as a palette and switching things out depending on what you are doing vs having it all there at once. It makes the modular even more modular :) I feel the same about things like Plaits and Disting... Did you develop the patch at the end into anything else? It sounds so nice. Will be interesting to see what next year brings!
Yeah, I'm also excited to see where this is going :) The patch at the end, by the way, is the piano generative piece.
@@OmriCohen-Music Ah yes.... so it is :P
Hey… the extra case for the ES-9 and other stuff is a really good idea. I think, I will also do it at some point. So you can do some standalone Eurorack stuff as well as hybrid with this extra case. And you have a bit of extra space in your main rack. Brilliant! Perhaps I will abuse my Arturia Rackbrute 3U for this purpose. We will see…
Yes, exactly, it's quite comfortable having an additional small case 🙂
I like this idea too and will out it to a pod eventually, maybe along with the semi modular hogging up room :D
I love eurorack and have the Intellijel 7u Pallette with Morphagene, Mimiophone, Plaits, pnw, a doepfer dual vca, and a envelope gen 2hp module. I understand the basic concept of it all, and I can make fun noise, but i really want to have a much deeper understanding of it all.
My problem is that I got into syntlesis around 4 years ago and bought a bunch of gear all at once. By doing this, I never gave myself enough time to properly learn each and every piece.
Yeah, these things need time but it's never too late :) Try concentrating on one module or aspect for a few days and see how it goes. For example, try exploring the idea behind a subtractive voice, try exploring what you can do with VCAs, try different uses of the Mimeophon. I'm sure you will find inspiration by limiting yourself to one module or aspect. Oh, and most important, when you do this, don't be in the mindset of building a full patch or creating a track. Just consider this as practicing like you would practice scales on a piano. Have fun!
The outro was really nice! Could you give a summary of the patch?
Thanks :) It's a generative patch I created a while ago with mostly piano sounds. Lots of granular and looping.
Yo! Good to see a progress report. I knda went in both directions lol. I've been enjoying a 9u myself. A Pittsburgh structure 360, a bit bulky but I dig the size. I also went big and ended up with a great deal on a 19u Needham case which has become more of a library from which I pull modules for the 9u.
Maybe this was suggested but you should slap some rubber feet on the back of the small Doepfer case so when you set it on it's back it's more stable? Cheers!
Yeah, using a bigger case as a library is really helpful. It makes it easier to switch things without dealing with boxes all the time. And that's a great idea with the rubber feet! Thanks :)
haha really enjoyed the why sell section. im on the same boat got MI beads, plaits and MK4 and I barely use just because there are sooooo many options and actually kill my workflow because I have to read the prints to see what's what.... thanks for confirming
It's good to know I'm not alone in this :) Cheers!
Cool video Omri, USB port was the word you were looking for I think for the Polyend module
Thanks :)
🙏🏼
I’ve got a 9U Doepfer case and a bunch of digital modules and I’ve never had a problem with power. That’s interesting. I remember someone else saying they didn’t have enough power.
Well, compared to the Intellijel 7U, for example, it's much less power. But yeah, depending on your needs, it might be enough.
Love the idea about multing a fader for macro control!
Yeah, it's working quite well :)
Hi Omri, the video outro is great. Nice eye candy. I noticed the beautiful symmetrical waveforms in the data mordax in XY mode. What was being feed that gives it that shape??? Thanks 🎉🎉🎉
Thanks so much! That's probably two sine LFOs
Nice update
Cheers!
I love the 2manysynths cases.
Right on time
Great ideas inside
Cheers!
I believe you can slide in a threaded strip in the Moog case so that you get fixed threaded holes.
I expected your reasoning for selling the 112 to have to do with the instability and bugs it has at times, but I agree, the lack of polyphony is unfortunate. My ad-hoc fix is to replace the quantizer scales with chords and change the setting for grains to maintain tuning. This makes it so that overlapping long grains (when not triggering simultaneously) can play polyphonically. However, it's fairly limited seeing as how the grains can't begin simultaneously.
Thanks for this video!
Yeah, I think that being able to play chords can open up so many possibilities
I was looking at the 112 but ended up getting Lubadh. I find myself still attracted to the 112 but I was surprised that it (to my knowledge) doesn't have separate outputs for the loops and the grains, if it had those I would probably have bought one. I'll make do for now with Lubadh and Beads (which I absolutely adore by the way).
I also really enjoy my Lubadh. How do you use it? Do you have any tips or tricks?
I can confirm: it's possible to do 3u-1u-3u set up on Stealth Case and have it connected to case outs - there's one 3pin ribbon cable that you can extend to a middle row.
Thank you!
If you use a magnetic driver, the sliding nuts are less evasive and easy to place. i still don´t like them too.
You cannot have enough VCAs if you want to have a very dynamic and controllable patch. And it's not only for audio, definitely not.
that interface case!!! 😯🔥👌
Hi Omri. Hope you are well. Would you please show us how you use the second rack you showed, with a flute or a bass? sees fun!
I'll see what I can do :)
I only have the too many options frame of mind coming from the use of Empress Zoia/Euroburo and Poly Hector and miRack and VCV Rack. With such a large number of options, maybe the suggestion often made by users of Zoia is to write down your idea and sketch it. I have used this way of patching before and it helps. Pushing yourself into a set of constraints can help.
Funny enough, this doesn't happen to me with VCV Rack... But yeah, Limitations are always good.
Mylarmelodies mainly focuses on controlling the amount of modulation in his "vca what do" video.
Thanks for the rundown. Surprised to not see a Chronoblob in there. Does Mimeophon handle everything delay for you?
Yeah, I would love to have a Chornoblob2 once as well. I hardly use the Mimeophon as a delay, to be honest. I usually use it either as a voice or for looping.
Thanks so much for posting this video. It was really helpful. Especially the part about Beads and the Expert Sleepers Disting. Modules that you have to have a list with to recall all the settings are useless to me. 84 functions in one module. Ridiculous.
Glad you enjoyed it!
premium stuff
Hi there. I’m curious where your eurorack journey has taken you recently?
Hi! I actually took a break from hardware last year, so that's why there's no "4 years into Eurorack" video, but I did go back to it eventually and composed quite a few tracks, so I hope to make another video this year with an update :)
Really curious how this will look in may 2023. I am expecting to see a second 7U, maybe a Shared System case. As long as you're working with 7U cases, you'll be fine as long as you think in 'systems' instead of just filling space. And you're an expert on 'systematic patching' :).
You know something, I'm thinking of this for quite some time now. Having sorts of systems or instruments to work with and experiment with instead of one ever changing instrument. I think that it will create a more focused workflow. We'll see :)
@@OmriCohen-Music Definitely works for me! Shared System, Shuttle System, Black & Gold Easel, Techno System, Grainstation, etc. I will never get a big modular wall where you can't reach the other side without ethernet :)
@@CinematicLaboratory how often are you swapping modules? how many duplicates do you have?
@@OmriCohen-Music I now have four cases with permanent modules and three cases which often change content depending on a video subject or experimentation. I have a duplicate Shared System (black & silver) and many duplicates of Mutable stuff (plaits, tides, marbles, stages, clouds). It never feels out of control, but actually, it is... I have way more modules than space. It's really strong when you're capable of selling stuff and making choices. I am not that strong and very often a new module breathes new life into the old ones... I am screwed but loving it.
@@OmriCohen-Music Insider tip: Miso Cornflakes.
I know what you mean about Beads, it seems to be a module that has had lot of expectations I think. On Mod Wiggler, there's a sort of mini discussion going on from time-to-time from those that love it, to those who (as you say) just don't get it. I've also had mixed feelings, but thought I'd keep it for the moment, and sell later if needed - there's plenty of people out there ready to buy one (at a reduced price).
To be honest, coming from Supercollider, I've always been used to 'making' the granulator you need. In Eurorack, I'd love to try out a few side-by-side over a couple of weeks, but that's just not really possible, unless you have a good friend working in one of the big shops who'd let you take away 2 or 3 for a comparison.
Lastly, to add to your comment about the wavetable in Beads (and the gain), indeed it seems odd there's no individual control possibility. The auto gain could be simply a attenuverter (like the others) that you turn CW for auto, and then as you turn it back CCW, it's in manual - ff > pp. The same applies for wavetable/granulator, a push button like the seed button - on/off. BTW, apparently Emelie has the gain problem on a to-do list.
Yeah, I'm sure there will be an update for this at one point but I just couldn't connect with it anyway. I very much prefer my Microcell :)
@@OmriCohen-Music I saw that (Microcell), and indeed it looks very interesting indeed, in fact it's exactly what I'm looking for. However, if you know where to buy one (without ordering from the states), I'd be very interested to know. All the listed stockists don't sell it - which is a bit odd.
@@cardboardmusic It's quite an interesting module. I especially like the in\out VCAs. Super handy. I also couldn't find it anywhere so I ended up ordering it from them directly. I had to collect it from customs and pay extra... :( But, I use it a lot also after so long so it was worth it I guess.
Feel the same about disting, but it is a 2 and I am afraid I will never get rid of it. :)
Give an artist 5 colours and he will paint you a picture, give him 50 paints and he will pick you 5 colours.
Amazing
Love your channel Omri! Do you have a recommendation for a great alternative to Plaits? Any Instruo modules that would do the same things ?
Thanks! Plaits can do so many different things, it's hard to find one module that can do it all... What do you like about Plaits? The VCOs? The drums? The noise?
@@OmriCohen-Music I would not need drums, I try to get that from some ther external place or use what I have so VCO and noise would be next priority.
@@Tim.Traveler Oh, ok. For a VCO, I have Neoni for quite some time, and I really like it. I also got the AfterLater Cascades recently, and it's also very unique, and probably more affordable. Both have multiple wave outputs, and various ways to change the timbre.
For noise, I would definitely recommend the Befaco Noise Plethora. You get three sources, and three filters, which is pretty amazing.
@@OmriCohen-Music Thanks! Love your work! Very Inspiring!
@@OmriCohen-Music Have you done anything interesting with polyphony yet? or is that external like Tasty Chips still?
About Instruo Athru, I'd really like so see a presentation of it. Maybe it is not "thaaat" magical, but personally I'm a bit low on the oscillator-side and use STOs which I want to further build on. So I looked into Wavefolders and stumbled over it.
Wanting to take it outside and use it with mushrooms confused me for a bit lol
I just took the plunge into eurorack. I started out good but I got lost in bad purchases with no real focus. Your channel is really helping me start to figure things out. I love your break down of vca's. I have an intellijel quad vca. I wonder if it actually amplifies the signal or just attenuates it?
It can add +6db of gain on any of the channels, so this is one that can actually amplify sound. Up to +24 if you chain them all together.
Yeah, things can get overwhelming pretty quickly...
@Cucker Tarlson yea that would fun to read that book. Good idea.
@Cucker Tarlson ordered!
I dont get why it sounds so critical to move the 1U into the middle ? Seems like a normal basic modular setup
It is amplifying the current. Please lookup emitter follower buffer amplifier.
If a circuit has an input of 0 - 5V and an output of 0 - 5V I think it's quite a stretch to call it amplification; attenuation is the right word because it describes what it does unless it's a VCA which actually CAN boost the signal beyond the input level, in which case it starts to make sense to talk about amplification. So I'm with "in general VCA means Voltage Controlled Attenuator".
The signal is by electronic convention controlled by precision of voltage. Amplification is a power gain. Watts is volts times amps. If there is no voltage gain there can still be a power by current gain. In fact current gain is necessary to hold accuracy of the signal voltage.
@@SimonJackson13 There is no current gain. At the most there is a "voltage repeater".
Well, yeah, as I mentioned, technically, it can be an amplifier but I'm more interested in the practical result and, most of the time, the result will only be attenuation.
There is a current gain hence the "power supply". But yes there is precedent for naming in an example of power amplifiers. It does not make communicative sense to have "power power amplifiers" instead of small-signal power amplifiers as a contra. I think the "Vortex" effects unit demonstrated there is precedent for renaming complexity on front panel labellings.
It’s a huge 19HP but Double Andore MK2 from IME / The Harvestman is freaking wonderful
Also got the Optomix V2 35:16 but it’s colors the sound So not my go to for many things
Great tips!
Here I was, initially - naively - thinking you had downsized to 7U, not having expected what followed ;)
And branches👽..bro..i think u forget this cool modul..but please tell me some patches with it! Thanks for ya Videos❤️🔥 u make a good job!
Best wishes from Vienna 🇦🇹 🖖
Oh yes, such a neat little module! Cheers!
I already have a intellijel quadratt as you do, I suppose you could do much the same with the quadratt that what you do with the instruo vinca, couldn´t you?
Well, the thing about vinca is that it's voltage controlled unlike quadratt that you have to move the knobs yourself.
I thought you were a huge fan of the Arbhar? why isn’t that in your main case?
Yes, I am. I love Arbhar and I think it's an amazing instrument but as I mention in the video, I built this case for a series of videos I was working on so I had Arbhar in a different case :)
Voltage_Controlled_Amplitude is way more logical.
Disting Ex granular mode has polyphony, FWIW
I haven't used the granular mode at all. Based on your description, I doubt you'd enjoy owning it unless you really want one of its modes.
For myself, I am perfectly happy to go back and forth with the manual while patching, so I am more or less the ideal market for it. Even so, I am not at all sure I'd like the mk4 - having an actual screen is key.
It is definitely not for everyone.
Bastl Instruments Pizza or Make Noise STO? hmmmm?!
תודה על הסרטון! יש סיכוי שתדבר פעם על העלות של כל התחביב הזה.. איך עושים את זה? איך לא מבזבזים יותר מדי כסף על ניסוי וטעיה.. ובכלל, מהם הפתרונות החלופיים והזולים לבעלי תקציב מועט שמשתוקקים למודולר..?
אהלן! אני לא כל כך בטוח אם יש פתרונות זולים יותר. אפילו אם תקנה רק יד שנייה ו\או תבנה מודולים לבד, עדיין, לאט לאט, אתה תוציא די הרבה כסף. רק הכבלים זה כבר עניין יקר... אבל זה ככה עם כל כלי נגינה. אני בטוח שמערכת תופים נחמדה עולה אפילו יותר. גם גיטרה עם אפקטים והכל, אם אתה קונה משהו איכותי, זה יעלה די הרבה.
יפה והאמת
Oh wow you really sized down huh
i came here just to hear you say "befaco"
3 full advertisements at the beginning?
I cannot afford to join the Patreon so I have no problem watching a few ads to support this incredible free resource
Is Eurorack really just for people with limitless money?
A nice guitar setup with an amp and a few pedals will cost you quite a lot of money, and that's just one instrument. I believe that if you stay focused and know what you want, you can get a really nice modular setup for not a lot of money.
Tried to find some music or sound reference in this video but.....lol...eurorack dudes be like..
Have a look here - czcams.com/users/MyModularMusic
Hm, downsizing and then you show this other case and another and then this.
Yeah, but that's a sort of a library I have and I don't use all of them at once. The number of modules I use at once is a lot smaller then with the 13U.
In terms of Scion, it sure can feel like random voltages and it is indeed very different from the root signal but I just think its kind of neat that it doesnt give out voltages when its not connected to living things. Also it is dependand on the plant, you'd get diffrent results from different plants or when you do certain things to them.
www.theoryofpaul.net/plants/poster-07.pdf "Results and conclusions"
For Studio use just have a big leafed plant beside your case :D