My DIY-Tools

While i am still waiting for parts for an upcoming DIY-project, i thought it would be a good idea to show you the DIY-equipment that i work with.
I don't use any expensive professional type tools, everything here can be bought on a budget, and upgraded if you have the money.
So far i have done all my modifications/expansions with this set of tools.

My main tools for DIY-projects

My soldering-iron is a 30W Velleman electrical soldering-iron without temperature-control.
I know some people prefer temperature-control because some of the components can be sensitive to high temperatures, but
so far i haven't damaged anything... ;-)

Wire, soldering-tin in 2 different sizes,
a de-soldering pump and a lighter.

I have 2 different sizes of lead-free soldering-tin, both with a low melting-point.
The thinnest one is 0.7 mm and i use that for the more delicate soldering-points.
I use the slightly thicker (1 mm) tin thread mainly for making connections (i.e. soldering a wire to a switch)
I hardly use the spring-loaded desoldering-pump on the lower left side of the pictures.
It can be used for removing old solder off a PCB.

The needle-nose pliers in the first picture are used to cut wire and for all kind of other purposes: bending, mounting and de-mounting the knobs and mini-jacks from the frontpanel.

The red and black wire is used for making the connections.
Although i have (many) more colors, i seem to end up using almost only these two colors.
I strip the ends of the wires with a lighter before use.
I don't need another special tool for that... ;-)

6-Piece precision screwdriver set

The 6-piece precision screwdriver set is also unmissable for me.
The different sizes make it perfect for any job.
From de- and re-mounting modules to trimming potentiometers on the PCBs, i use them for almost anything.

I learned most of the basics about DIY and soldering off the internet.
There are many how-to videos to find on YouTube and Wikipedia is filled with all the information you'll ever require.
Besides that there are a lot of books available about this topic.

A suggested read : http://patchpierre.blogspot.nl/2013/02/booktip-xiv-electronica-for-dummies.html

More Darkness: Doepfer MAQ16/3 Dark Edition

It seems that Doepfer is extending their successful  'Dark'-product-range even more with their latest announcement.
A new version of the MAQ16/3 MIDI Analog Sequencer will be black and feature Dark Energy-style knobs.
There's not much additional info, but i guess the inside of this fantastic sequencer will stay the same.

It looks great, and this is not the first time that a black MAQ will be available, but those models had the same style of knobs of the original MAQ, only in black...

New Doepfer A-157 Pictures / Dark Flow Announced

Doepfer posted their latest design and a bit more info on the upcoming A-157 (Mini Schaltwerk) Trigger Sequencer Subsystem modules on their website.
Hopefully the finished modules will be shown later at MusikMesse this year (10th-13th of May in Frankfurt, Germany)

A-157-1 Mini Schaltwerk design

The name 'Mini Schaltwerk' seems appropriate now, because it does look a lot like it's larger Schaltwerk brother.

" The LED/button matrix module A-157-1 is the core of the subsystem.
It is used to set or reset the trigger event on each of the 16 steps of each of the 8 rows.
The trigger output module A-157-2 outputs the 8 trigger signals and has an LED display for each trigger.
We will probably add a mute button or mute switch for each row that allows to turn the trigger output off/on independent for each row.
In the final version the modules A-157-1 and A-157-2 will be probably merged into one module only because both modules are essential for the subsystem.

The module A-157-1/2 (or the merged module that will contain both units) can be connected to a simple control module or a more sophisticated control module which is planned for the future (similar to the A-155 and A-154 conceptual design where the A-155 includes a simple control unit that can be replaced by the A-154 which offers a lot of additional functions).

At the beginning a simple control module A-157-3 similar to the A-155 control unit will be available.
It offers only the functions clock, start/stop and reset (both with manual controls and control inputs).
For this standard control unit the tempo (clock) is the same for all 8 rows, the direction is forward and the length of each row is 16.

We also plan a more complex control module A-157-4 that allows additional functions like 128 memories for trigger sequences, different clock/start/stop/reset for 2 or 4 groups of rows (e.g. common for rows 1-4 and 5-8, or in pairs), independent first/last step for each row, independent direction (forward/backward/pendulum/random) for each row, one-shot mode, LC display and so on.
But these ideas are very preliminary and we will have to find out which functions are essential."

Doepfer also mentions that there are also plans for an A-157 stand-alone version adapted to the design of Dark Energy and Dark Time with the same case dimensions and wooden side panels (provisional name "Dark Flow")

Release date: ~ fall 2013 (only A-157-1 ... 3, so far there is no release date available for the planned module A-157-4 and the stand-alone unit Dark Flow !)

Blue LED Lights MIDI Controlled using a Doepfer MTC 64

James Bragg, member of the Doepfer Yahoo Usergroup recently shared his latest project.
He has just finished his 16-LED light-panel using a Doepfer MTC64 MIDI-to-Contact board.

The MTC64 is an universal MIDI interface that converts up to 64 succeeding MIDI note on/off or program change messages into 64 TTL voltages (0/+5V).

The TTL outputs of the MTC64 can be used to control different switching functions. 

With suitable drivers (e.g. switching transistors) relays, lamps, motors, electromagnets, even magnetic valves and so on can be controlled.

James only used 16 of the 64 switching contacts.
He explains: " When playing synth live I use an Akai  MPC1000 sampler for backing beats and I wanted to synchronize lighting with it."
In the video he shows how it is all made.

Video: Blue LED Lights MIDI Controlled using a Doepfer MTC64

" A project using a Doepfer board to Midi Control LED lights. We're going to use this for our band Phoenix-Flare so the lights can be synced perfectly to the Drum Machine "

Uploaded by James Bragg

Subscribe on YouTube: hyperdust7

Random Videos by Daniel Hofer

On a new YouTube channel by Daniel Hofer, a lot of interesting Doepfer-videos are popping up.
Mainly just wild audio-demonstrations without voice-over, but with very interesting sounds and great audio quality too.

Sadly the descriptions are in German, but i did a rough translation of them all... where possible ;-)
Enjoy!

Video 1: 1.3.13 space 02

" Quantised RVnoise dynamically shaped with the DSP Effects-Module from Doepfer.
Inverted Shape + Original "

Video 2: 16.3.13 Resonanz Gate to QVR to VCF

" QVR from doepfer controlled by Gate, controlling the Filter Frequency from the A-108 "

Video 3: 25.2.13 SH Cmp Morp

" 2 LFO Signals into Comperator, Signal Out in Trigger in of the ADSR, VCO1+2 to FM morphing over Offset "

All videos by Daniel Hofer, 

subscribe to his YouTube channel HERE

MAQ16/3 FracRak Breakout Box

MAQ 16/3 FracRak breakout panels

Not every-one finds it practical that the Doepfer MAQ16/3 Sequencer has all its connections on the backside of the module.
Especially when you change your setup a lot, you don't want to climb behind your 19"-rack to change patch-cables every time.

Of course there are always people who have figured out a solution for this.

This MAQ breakout panel that i found in an old Matrixsynth post came with a pair of custom made FracRak breakout panels to bring the MIDI jacks and the 1/8" Voltage Control and Gate jacks to the front of your FracRak panel for easy patching.
These would have fit perfectly next to your Paia modules for example.
It also had the necessary cables to connect to these panels from the back of the MAQ16/3.

Sideview of theMAQ 16/3 FracRak
breakout panels

According to the maker these panels were not cheap to put together. (Try pricing the 2 MIDI panel mount barrels and even the 6 panel mount 1/8" barrels)

Theoretically it is possible to make such breakout panels for a Eurorack system.

The CV and Gate outputs would fit easily on one of those 8HP wide pre-drilled blank panels (A-180-style) that Doepfer sells as spare parts. 

You can even put in a few extra switches for your own maximized customization experience. Your limit is your imagination.

Personally, I have long CV (red coded cables) and Gate (blue) wires coming out of my MAQ16/3 that come into my Eurorack system through multiple A-180 Multiples modules, but i can see the benefits of this module.

It might be worth investigating the possibilities of a Eurorack breakout panel a little more for a future blogpost.

Random Video: Improvisation XXXII by Andreas Krebs:

Andreas Krebs, blogger at http://blog.andreaskrebs.de/ and writer of the Big A-100 Book (still only available in the German language) uploaded an impressive 26-minute long video of his latest improvisational piece... Enjoy!

Video: Andreas Krebs: Improvisation XXXII

"Andreas Krebs: Improvisation XXXII "Wind Horse" 20.02.2013
Instruments: Doepfer A-100, GForce ImpOSCar2 "

Find more about Andreas HERE

Doepfer Pre-MusikMesse 2013 Announcements

Dieter Doepfer made a few announcements today about the upcoming new modules and about the MusikMesse 2013, that will be held from the 10th to the 13th of April 2013 in Frankfurt, Germany.

I'm looking most forward to the new A-157 Mini Schaltwerk prototypes, i cant wait until the are finished.:
Doepfer stated that they " ...will hopefully show the "large" version of the trigger sequencer A-157/miniature Schaltwerk (8 rows with 16 steps each).
The 8x16 button/LED board is ready but I cannot guarantee that the controller board will be also ready for the Musikmesse."

One of the earlier
A-190-5 prototypes

They will also show the prototype of the new version of the A-190-5 Polyphonic USB/Midi-to-CV/Gate Interface (with LCD) and the A-190-8 USB/Midi-to-Sync Interface at the Musikmesse in Frankfurt.

These modules will be available about summer 2013. 

The other news:

The small version of the multiple A-180 is available in April 2013 (2 HP only, name: A-180-2)

The module A-171-2 (licensed copy of the Serge/CGS VCS) will be available about end of April or early in May 2013.
(It will be interesting to see how the Serge's new deal with TipTop works out - expect a surge of Serge for your Eurorack this year /PP)

A-171-2 Serge
Slew Limiter
prototype

The re-designed A-130 (linear VCA) is now delivered with a precision VCA circuit (SSM2164) instead of the CA3080).
The new A-130 is DC-coupled.

The re-designed A-131 (exponential VCA) is now delivered also with an improved VCA circuit (high end THAT VCA circuit instead of the CA3080).
The new A-131 is also DC-coupled.

The A-135 will be available from about May 2013 in a revised version with DC coupling of the signals and single outputs, i.e. it can be used also as 4 separate linear VCAs with manual gain, CV in with attenuator and signal in with attenuator.
Because of the DC coupling it can be used also for modulation signal processing (i.e. voltage controlled mixing of control signals).

So, a lot of updates, can't wait to see the first pictures of the A-157 combo coming from MusikMesse.
Are you going to MusikMesse this year and want to contribute pictures to PatchPierre.Net?
Feel free to contact me via the comments, email or Twitter, thanks in advance!

Doepfer DIY Synth for Eurorack

I have a lot of respect for the DIY/synth community and their inventivity.
A Google alert notified me about this module, a Doepfer DIY-synth built into a skiff-friendly 42 TE wide Eurorack panel... the smallest one i have seen so far.
For those of you interested, it is still for sale on eBay...


"Doepfer DIY synth for Eurorack format
Fully patchable complete modular analog synth.
Size 42TE (213 mm) / Skiff friendly

The module has:
30 Patch points (3,5 Euro standard jacks)
27 Potentiometers
plus 2 switches and 2 LEDs for ADSR and LFO

You get:
A VCO, Multimode filter (LowPass, HighPass and mixed mode), LFO (trangle and rectangle), ADSR, inverter, slew (portamento)
Each with several attennuators and parameters not normally seen in other modules."

Auction ends on the 15th of March - find it on eBay HERE

Alternative Controllers: Dmitry Shtatnov's Wob-Wob Fader

Dmitry Shtatnov uploaded a nice video from his latest DIY-project/invention.
He created a CV-source module that consists of an 8 HP front-panel with two faders, two separate mini-jack outputs and a switch.

Dmitry's Wob-Bob fader

The faders generate CV voltages, and each fader has its own output.
A switch is added to select between (regular) fader mode and so-called wob-wob mode with a 0V.-centre in the middle.
I must say it does create a nice effect, and IMO not only suitable for making Dub-Step...

Dmitry even shares the schemetics if you're interested in this project, contact him via his site or via YouTube.

Video: Wob-Wob Filter

" This short demonstration shows my little invention: CV-source dedicated for Dub-Step drops. Unlike regular fader, this one has its maximal value on the middle position. Schematics available. It's very simple and it's free for non-commercial use.
You can get schematic here: http://ic.pics.livejournal.com/rpocc/...
R2 and R3 can be replaced with 4.7k to increase the sweep width. http://rpocc.ru/"

Uploaded by rpocc

As an alternative you could also use the A-174-2 Modulation Wheels CV Source for this.

This module has 2 wheels, and comes standard as one spring loaded wheel with bipolar voltage output, and one wheel without spring with only positive voltage output as a standard.

For each wheel two jumpers are available: one for the voltage range (positive or bipolar) and one for the voltage plateau around 0 V.
Another option to re-create this effect would be with an A-174(-1) Joystick module...

Using a Doepfer A-145 LFO as Swing Generator

I have decided to make a few short tutorials for the blog with relatively basic tips for your modular synthesizer.

The first video in this series shows how you can use an LFO as alternative 'Swing Generator'
I used a Doepfer A-145 LFO to show the principle.
The A-145 can do a great job as a (continuous) envelope generator, especially when using the reversed saw-tooth wave.

In the video the TB-303 is playing, the A-100 is playing the same pattern via the TB-303's CV Output.
The Gate from the TB-303 is fed into the Reset In on the A-145 so each time this module receives a Gate signal, it starts a new cycle.
Slow LFO cycles (Low mode) will result in longer envelopes and faster LFO's will result in interesting (swinging) rhythmical discoveries.

Video: Using an A-145 LFO as Swing Generator by PatchPierre

" Short PatchPierre Tutorial
Equipment used: Doepfer A-100, Roland TB-303, Machinedrum "

Uploaded by PatchPierre (subscribe!)

Doepfer A-118 Extra Random Output Modification

A-118 front panel,
secured and ready
for drilling

In preparation for the next #ModularBattle round, i figured out i had to do something to get a little bit more out of my pretty basic set of Doepfer Modules.

I decided to add an extra Random Output to my A-118 Noise/Random Voltage module, which was quite an easy job.

After i removed the knobs and the sockets i could remove the frontpanel of the module.
I mounted it on a flat piece of (old)wood, and secured it with two nails to avoid the frontpanel slipping away.
With a nail and a hammer i punched a small guide-hole for my drill, and drilled an extra hole for the new mini-jack connector.

To protect the front-plate, you can use an adhesive foil or (painter's) masking tape to cover the front, but if you drill very carefully, and don't wipe but blow the aluminium-scrapes off the module you'll be fine.

A-118 extra random output wiring

The new mini-jack connector was one that i ordered from Doepfer earlier (i have a big collection of mini-jack connectors, knobs and switches - they sell them seperately as spare parts) and the connection with the other random output was made with 2 pieces of wire and my soldering-iron.
The connection was as easy as it looks, and it looks like my soldering-skills are (slightly) improving...

Finished module with
extra random output

Don'be afraid for any CV-loss now that the signal has to be distributed over the two Random busses.
Doepfer confirmed to me that "this just works as a mini multiple and doesn't lower the CV"

Now that the modification is done, the module sends 2 similar (controllable) random voltages to both outputs that i can use for all kinds of purposes throughout my modular synthesizer.

For a modification that was done in less than an hour, it is a nice improvement...

The mods described on this site will most likely void any warranty and, if not done carefully, can damage the circuit board, IC chips, and faceplates.

"The rules of fair play do not apply in love and war." John Lyly's 'Euphues' (1578) #ModularBattle

Gestural Control of Modular Synthesizer via Kinect by Robotmakers

A video by Robotmakers was uploaded to YouTube this weekend, showing another alternative way of controlling your modular with gestures.

Finally someone found out how to use the Microsoft Kinect system to control a (modular) synthesizer.

Kinect is a motion sensing input device by Microsoft for the Xbox 360 game console and Windows PCs, based around a webcam-style add-on peripheral. 

It enables users to control and interact with the PC or Xbox 360 without the need to touch a game controller or mouse, through a natural user interface using gestures.

Although this hack only converts the gestures to a MIDI signal, it can be easily converted into CV voltages with any simple MIDI-to-CV converter.

I predicted that this would be possible when the Kinect was announced in a post from January last year about Doepfer's Mogli glove. 

I didn't expect it would take this long before a video showing this would appear on YouTube though...

(or did i miss earlier attempts?)

Video: Gestural Control of Modular Synthesizer via Kinect

" Custom software enables gestural control using Kinect and PC. Hand movements in the X and Y axes are translated into MIDI signals which generate control voltages, allowing 2 dimensional morphing of waveforms in a "Morphing Terrarium" module, processed through modular moog.

Recorded in the superterranian lair of the Robotmakers. "

Uploaded by robotmakers

Also read the other blog-posts i wrote about touch-less gesture-control, like the Theremin, the Doepfer Mogli and the Wii-mote.

PatchPierre Goes To Battle

You've probably heard and read about the ModularBattle challenge that was started by KlirrFaktor and Fi0cz a few weeks ago.
The rules are simple so far; Round one - one module only / Round 2 - two modules, and so on...
 - no external CV, click or audio - tracks no longer than 2 minutes - no additional edits or effects - track as video or audio.
I made quite a few videos so far, although i failed to enter my first video in time.
Starting from now on I will post them here on my own blog too...

Find all the other entries at http://www.knoobz.com/
Follow ModularBattle on Twitter via the #ModularBattle hashtag

My #ModularBattle entries so far:

Video 1: Out of competition #ModularBattle Round 1 entry by PatchPierre

One module only - Doepfer A-127 Triple VC Resonance Filter

Video 2: PatchPierre Sells Seashells - #ModularBattle Round 2

Two modules only - Doepfer A-118 Noise/Random Voltage plus Doepfer A-106-1 Xtreme Filter

Video 3: Sonic Pointillism by PatchPierre - #ModularBattle Round 3

Three modules only - Doepfer A-118 Noise/Random Voltage plus Doepfer A-188-1 BBD plus Doepfer A-147 VCLFO modules

Video 4: Acid Ducks by PatchPierre - #ModularBattle Round 4

Four modules only - Doepfer A-118 Noise/RND + A-147 VCLFO + A-111 VCO2 + A-127 VCRF

My new entries will be added to this post later...

Next round - ModularBattle Round 5: The perfect drone
Here are the rules:
give us your perfect drone - modular only ^^ - track must be no longer than 3 minutes - no additional edits or effects - track as video or audio

Feel free enter next week's battle that has a deadline on the night of the 24th of March.
You may add your tracks with postings @ sequencer.de or muffwiggler.com, on Soundcloud or on Twitter with the hashtag #modularbattle

Quick Tip XI : Eurorack Screws

Okay, this seems like pretty basic Eurorack knowledge, but every now and then I see this question popping up on several forums and sites.

The standard Doepfer eurorack screws - M3x6

It seems a lot of people run out of Eurorack mounting screws very often.
A lot of them don't seem to know what types are used and/or where to get them.

In Doepfer Euroracks standardized lens head screw DIN7985 M3x6 are used.
DIN is the German edition of ISO standards and
the ISO metric screw threads are the world-wide most commonly used type of general-purpose screw thread.

The 3 stands for the diameter of the wire, and 6 stands for the length of the screw... both in millimeters (mm).
For the Doepfer racks, don't use longer screws...

I got mine from a local hardware-store (GAMMA), and i guess you will be able to find some near you...
Of course there are many other types of mounting screws available that fit... in different shapes and colours, so the choice is yours.
Just Google "M3x6" and you will find plenty of options.

A tip from Oliver Chesler from wiretotheear.com in the comments is that you can also use 3mm Nylon Plastic Washers between your screws and the modules.

If you want to resell your modules scratch-less this might be a good idea.

Random Video: Automated Tape Delay/Reverse by Wouter van Veldhoven

Wouter van Veldhoven, a tape-addict and musician from the Netherlands, makes music using collected second hand materials including, cans, old tape recorders, cigarboxes, broken radios and toypianos.
He reworks them in experimental musical instruments and uses them as recording devices.
His music balances somewhere between dusty, lo-fi experimental ambient and jangly instrumentals, but recently he has also been delving into the realm of minimal techno.

His latest upload is made with a nice mix of Doepfer Eurorack and various tape-machines and sounds like it is influenced by the classic Dutch NatLab-engineers from  the early 60s.

Video: Automated tape delay/reverse

" I adjusted a tape recorder in such a way its playing direction can be controlled from my Doepfer system, this combined with an extra tape recorder that both records and plays back enables delayed tape reversing in a live setting. Quite nice for doing some minimal techno thingies"

Find more about this project on his Tumblr page at http://woutervanveldhoven.tumblr.com/

Uploaded by Wouter van Veldhoven

Follow Wouter on Twitter at https://twitter.com/WvVeldhoven

Game on! Modular Battles

Last Friday i received a very interesting notification/invitation for a new initiative from The KlirrFaktor.
A challenge, with easy rules;

• one module only
• no external CV, click or audio
• track must be no longer than 2 mins
• track as video or audio
• no additional edits or effects

It's too bad that i had other things planned this weekend, but the first modular battle took place without me and resulted in some really nice & crazy tracks.

Find all entries for the first round at: Modular Battle Part 1 “one module only”
Although he did not completely keep it under the 2-minute limit ;-) -my personal favorite was from Fi0cz and is made on a Makenoise DPO:

Video: The 1 module // no cv battle .My round . by Fi0cz


Looking back at round one... i don't think i could have done a better job with my pretty basic set of Doepfer modules.
The only thing i can think of now (after the first round) would be an experiment with my A-127 Triple VCF, where the first filter is resonating, fed back into the module and filtered again by the two remaining LFO-controlled filters... #toolate

I might send in an entry for Round 2, same rules, but now with only 2 modules and a deadline on the night of the 24th of February.
A good way to get a bit more creative with the modules that i have...

Read more about the Modular Battles at http://www.knoobz.com/

Add tracks to the battle:
You may add your tracks with postings @ sequencer.de or muffwiggler.com (link later), on Soundcloud or on Twitter tweeting with the hashtag #modularbattle
Follow ModularBattle on Twitter for latest information
AND
Let’s go modular!

Korg Monotron Demo by PatchPierre

As most of you know, i bought a fully analog Korg Monotron -analogue ribbon synthesizer- a while ago.
I promised you to make a short demo of it as soon as i had the time, so here it is.

The Korg Monotron is a cheap (39 Euro) battery-powered synthesizer, but what a lot of fun i already had with this little thing.
It features one VCO, a real VCF (This true analog filter is taken from the classic MS-10 & MS-20 synthesizer) with Filter-Cutoff and Peak (resonance) Control.
An LFO with variable speed (and an LED that flashes in tandem) can be applied to the Pitch (VCO) or Filter(VCF)
*note: only the LFO>filter cutoff is shown in this video

Video: Korg Monotron -analogue ribbon synthesizer- demo by PatchPierre

" Created by PatchPierre
http://patchpierre.blogspot.nl/

Equipment used: Korg Monotron"

Random Video: Cumulus 1 [WIP] by Glitzerstrahl

Interesting noises from Glitzerstrahl this time... with video.
A work in progress with his eurorack modular synthesizer, find a full list of modules HERE

Video: Cumulus 1 [WIP] by Glitzerstrahl

" The starting point of a track made entirely with my modular rack.
No MIDI or external sequencing but reverb was added while recording through Ableton Live.
The track is still being worked on so this video only shows the first version.
I'll continuously post videos as parts are added, and that way you can see how the track builds up.
In essence what you hear is built up by an XAOC Moskwa sequencer modulating a Pittsburgh filter cutoff that filters a set of 3 separately tuned Bubblesound VCOb oscillators.
A Pittsburgh mixer is manually manipulated to change the mix of the three oscillators, and the resonance, QVC and cutoff of the filter is also manually tweaked during the course of the track.
The Attack and Release of the envelope (of which there is only 1 (TipTop Z4000)) is set randomly and gated by the Moskwa, and there is a slew limiter (Doepfer a-170) patched in between one of the oscillators, and in the path of the random voltage of the Release of the envelope.
Hope you like it!"

Used with kind permission from Glitzerstrahl

Follow GlitzerstrahlMusic on YouTube

BookTip XIV: Electronica for Dummies (Dutch Edition)

Electronics for Dummies, Dutch Language version

Okay, a bit of a weird BookTip this time... at first sight.

The For Dummies series is an extensive series of instructional/reference books which are intended to present non-intimidating guides for readers new to the various topics covered.

As of December 2012, over 1800 For Dummies titles have been published with editions in numerous languages.

This Electronica (electronics) edition (published in 2005 in multiple languages) is extremely useful for the beginning electronics DIY-ers (like me), and it has already been very helpful making thing more understandable.

The book (416 pages) covers a whole range of subjects, from the basics, preparation, tools and safety-measures to easy-to-build small projects on a breadboard or with self-made printed circuit boards (pcb's).

On your way through the book you'll learn everything about diodes, resistors, capacitors and reading schematics. It even has a robotics section...

I learned a lot from this book so far, although i haven't even read it all... i mainly use it for reference.

In the English language you have the choice of a few different books about this same subject in the For Dummies series,

Closest is probably the Electronics All-In-One Desk Reference For Dummies, and for the advanced DIY-ers I guess they could even try the Circuitbuilding Do-It-Yourself For Dummies, but please check before you buy because i'm not sure.

More info at http://www.dummies.com/

Written by: Gordon McComb & Earl Boysen

ISBN: 978-90-430-1162-4

Find my other BookTips HERE

MAQ 16/3 Direction Via MIDI Demo by Nicholas Keller

An interesting video, posted by Nicholas Keller in the Doepfer A-100 group on Facebook shows something about the Doepfer MAQ 16/3 Sequencer that i never really noticed before.

It seems that normally, the MAQ in forward mode would start from the last random step, what can really mess up your patterns.

In his video Nicholas shows that, with some clever MIDI programming, it is possible to get your next forward pattern starting from step 1.

Video: Direction via MIDI

direction via midi from N K on Vimeo.

" This video simply shows that it is possible to switch direction of an Doepfer MAQ16/3 sequence from random to forward with the forward section starting from step 1. Normally, the forward section would start from the last random step. Start from step 1 was achieved with a series of MIDI commands from DAW sequencer (in this case Ableton Live) sent to the MAQ."

Nicholas also added: "This video will probably be part of a future blog post of mine, as right now I am working on some other ones. (you can find his blog at http://www.niroke.blogspot.com)
Also, you might express that the MAQ's functions can all be controlled through MIDI.
For this example, I used Q-control v1.0, which is an Ableton Live project file that contains individual clips for all the MIDI commands for the MAQ. I'm not sure that the website where I found this is still active.
I can email you the file if you can host it. I sent commands for First and Last Step as well as Forward and Random commands.
The First and Last Step commands were necessary to force the Forward version of the pattern to start on Step 1 ( First=1, Last=1). Then at marker 1.1.2 in Ableton (the second 1/16th note) I added First=2 and Last=16 commands."

Uploaded by Nicholas Keller

Follow Nicholas Keller on Vimeo HERE

Modulator Systems MS202 Voltage Attenuator / Foot Controller Demo

Another Eurorack controller by Modulator Systems in London, the company that makes and sells interesting accessories for Doepfer A-100 and compatible (eurorack) analog synthesizer systems.
This time they created a cheap, pressure-sensitive pad with a CV-output.
Sadly it doesn't send a Gate/Trigger signal though...

Video: Modulator Systems MS202 Voltage Attenuator / Foot Controller Demo

" The MS202 is a fabric-covered soft touch voltage attenuating pad which can be patched into any voltage source and destination on the Doepfer A100 and similar analog modular systems and synthesizers. The uses are only limited by your imagination but it can for example vary vibrato or filter modulation depth, allow through white noise in drum sounds, add random modulation to notes, allow extra sequencer notes to be triggered, and much more.

The MS202 can also be hit with drum sticks to vary drum synth sounds - though it only outputs a voltage, not a trigger or gate - and works with even greater range as a foot controller, finding use as a wah-wah, volume controller and much more. You can also cover the MS202 with any flexible surface and use it as a hidden variable voltage source"

Price is £39.00 with £5.00 UK shipping or free collection in London, worldwide shipping costs on request.
Email: modulatorsystems@gmail.com

Video uploaded by ModulatorSystems
Find more info at http://modulatorsystems.wix.com/index
(note: it looks like their site is still under construction / not all links work...yet)

Magnetic Table CV-Controller by Jon Sonnenberg

One of the most impressive alternative DIY-controllers i've seen this year is probably this next one.

This Magnetic Table CV-controller is made by Jon Sonnenberg, who has been creating music and been obsessed with electronic music for most of his life.

The design is based on a magnetic pendulum toy;

" The toy consisted of a dangling string with a magnet on the end of it; then it hovered over magnets on a table that either repelled or attracted the string magnet; the stringed magnet then maneuvers around in crazy patterns due to the position of the table magnets.

There are 2 control voltage outputs for this device; one for the X axis, and one for the Y. 

 They vary from 0 to 5 volts. These can be used to change any parameter in a synthesizer or effects system to make interesting sounds. 

 For instance, the X axis could control the pitch of an oscillator, while the Y axis could control the volume. Another example could be the X axis controls a delay time, while the Y axis controls the feedback of the delay unit
. 

Closeup of the upside-down potentiometer-joystick   

 A third example (and a little more abstract) is to have the X axis control the length of a sequence pattern, and the Y axis control the tempo of the sequence.

One interesting thing about using the magnetic table to control sound is that when the pendulum passes over a magnet with a pole that attracts the pendulum, it overshoots a bit, then swing back toward the magnet and overshoots again, continuing to oscillate in a damped, simple harmonic motion. 

 If the magnet is stronger (you can use larger magnets or stack them to make them have a stronger attraction or repulsion), then this oscillation is faster."

Video: The Magnetic Table: A CV controller for Modular Synthesizers

" Here is a demonstration of a CV controller that I built. It is a simple pendulum with a magnet at the end.
The magnets on the table can be moved and can either repel or attract the pendulum.
More information can be found at www.artoftravelogue.com or more specifically here: http://artoftravelogue.blogspot.com/2012/02/magnetic-table-cv-controller.html "

MAQ16/3 On/Off Switch Modification by fixed1t

Seriously... why do some manufacturers still build equipment without a proper on/off switch?

It looks like Malcolm Dixon AKA fixed1t has tackled the problem that a lot of people seem to have with the Doepfer MAQ16/3 Analog Sequencer not having a power switch on the front panel.
He wrote an interesting post about how he added an on/off switch to the frontpanel of his black MAQ16/3 on his new blog ( find blog-post HERE), and he even made an explanatory video with it.

Video: DOEPFER MAQ16/3 Analogue Switch Modification
" The DOEPFER MAQ16/3 Analogue Sequencer has no front panel switch and its been a constant source of hassle having to unplug its Wall-Wart power supply at the back.
Also pulling cables at the back of the rack constantly unplugged it.
I could take it no longer and decided to put a power switch on the front and one which looks like it should be there.

Finished project with nicely aligned on/off switch

The Mod took a few hours to do (safely) but works a treat.
I decided to video it from my phone.
Let me know if you need more details on how to add a switch to your unit.

The music: Angels v Robots I wrote with the MAQ after making the mod."

Check out his myspace at: http://www.myspace.com/fixed1t
Follow him on Twitter: http://Twitter.com/fixed1t
and keep an eye on his new blog at http://fixed1t.blogspot.com

Modulator Systems MS101-R(a) Demo

More weird Eurorack controllers, this time by Modulator Systems in London, a company that makes and sells many interesting accessories for Doepfer A-100 and compatible analog synthesizer systems.

Video: MODULATOR SYSTEMS MS101-R(a) DEMO

" Demo for the Modulator Systems MS101-R(a) Dual Momentary/Attenuator Remote.

This is a small remote control handset suitable for use with Doepfer, Analogue Solutions, Exclusively Analogue and other modular analog synthesizers. 

It offers two momentary buttons and one attenuator, around a metre of cable and three pairs of inline mini-jack sockets to be patched into your modular synthesizer. 

You can patch modulation through the attenuator and control its depth, patch a triggering LFO through a momentary to trigger an envelope in manually played patterns, create occasional ring modulation by patching a fast running LFO to the filter through a momentary, or anything else you can imagine."

The MS101-R(a) sells for 39 UK pounds plus mailing anywhere in the world.

Video uploaded by ModulatorSystems
Find more info at http://modulatorsystems.wix.com/index
(note: it looks like their site is still under construction / not all links work...yet)

Doepfer A-196 PLL Tutorial Videos by Raul Pena

Raul Pena is back with a new A-100 tutorial series, this time all about the A-196 Phase Locked Loop (PLL) module.
- Its a slightly different type of series this time, Raul is asking for feedback and may do alternate versions.

A more detailed intro to the series and notes can be found HERE. 

Video 1: Doepfer A196 PLL Phase Locked Loop Basics

" Beginning of a series exploring the basics of the Doepfer A196 PLL Phase locked loop module. Video discusses understanding basic layout of the module and general layout. Audio demonstrations begin in next part of series "Experiments with the Doepfer A196 Phase Locked Loop-VCO and Comparator". Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 2: Doepfer A196 PLL Experiments with the Phase Locked Loop- VCO and Phase Comparator Part One

" Beginning of a series exploring the Phase Locked Loop by Doepfer.Experiments with the Doepfer A196 PLL (Phase Locked Loop)- VCO and Phase Comparator. Part One of Two. For Basics on the Phase Locked Loop look for Doepfer A196 PLL Phase Locked Loop Basics. Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 3: Doepfer A196 PLL- Experiments with the Phase Locked Loop-VCO and Phase Comparator Part Two

" Continuation of a series exploring the Phase Locked Loop by Doepfer.
Experiments with the Doepfer A196 PLL (Phase Locked Loop)- VCO and Phase Comparator. 

Part Two of Two. For Basics on the Phase Locked Loop look for Doepfer A196 PLL Phase Locked Loop Basics. Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

NAMM 2013 Preview

Dieter Doepfer and Bob Moog at NAMM 2002

NAMM 2013 in Anaheim, California will kick off tomorrow.
From January 24-27 many exhibitors from all over the world will show their latest in music technology.

Some manufacturers already announced the new synthesizers that they will be display at NAMM;
I believe i am the most excited by the previews that i've seen from the Moog Sub Phatty, a new analog synthezizer from Moog (around 1100 USD) and the rumors of a Korg MS-20 re-design.
According to this rumors Korg will show a revamped Korg Legacy MS-20-style controller, but with fully analog circuits, featuring mini 1/8"  instead of 1/4" jacks and equipped with MIDI and MIDI over USB.
The rumored price will be around 800 USD.

I haven't seen many spectacular new eurorack announcements yet (besides the new Pittsburgh Modular modules and cases, and the 4ms modules), but there will probably be some new and interesting devices out there.

Dieter Doepfer and Bob Moog
at NAMM 2002

The Bob Moog Foundation (BMF) will also be at NAMM 'to celebrate the indelible nature of the synthesizer pioneer’s legacy'.
Beginning on Thursday January 24, NAMM attendees will have opportunities to see and hear demonstrations of vintage Moog instruments and explore rarely seen archival material from the Bob Moog Foundation Archives.
More info about this at the BMF Website.

Have fun if you are going, i wish i could be there too.
Maybe i'll try to be at the next MusikMesse in Frankfurt, Germany (April 10 to 13, 2013) , but nothing is sure yet.
I also have a regular day-job, you know...

Feel free to send interesting (eurorack modular) synth-pictures if you have them, thanks in advance!
The best place to find all the latest NAMM news is at Matrixsynth.

Find more info about NAMM 2013 at http://www.namm.org/thenammshow/2013

Pictures via the Doepfer Facebook page

A-142-4 plus Expander Demo by Hawklord2112

Regular video-uploader and contributor to the blog Hawklord2112 uploaded another nice new video.

He bought himself a new A-142-4 Quad Decay module and also an extra expander module for it.
Each of the 4 sub-units of the A-142-4 has a pin header with two pins available.

When the two pins are shortened (e.g. by means of a jumper on the PCB board or a toggle switch connected to the two pins) the corresponding sub-unit changes to a loop mode. 

In this mode the unit triggers itself like an LFO..

The expander is made of a pre-manufactured panel, punched for 8 sockets, almost identical to the A-180 front panel but without the printing.
Those panels are very useful for DIY-projects like this.
In his video he explains how it all works.

Video: A-142-4

"Basic demo of the Doepfer A142.4 Quad Decay generator and DIY breakout expander"

Uploaded by hawklord2112

A-128 Modification by Ernst van der Loo

Dutch Sound Designer, Engineer, Composer & Performer Ernst van der Loo posted a few pictures of his latest DIY-project in the Doepfer A-100 Facebook group.

Tools of the trade and lots of wire

The project involved creating 15 individual outputs for his Doepfer A-128 fixed filter bank.

Module A-128 (Fixed Filter Bank) is a filter bank, made up of 15 parallel band pass filters, all with fixed middle frequencies and bandwidth.

Each band pass filter has its own amplitude control knob, with which that frequency band can be attenuated. 

The bandwidth of each of the filters is approximately half an octave.
The signal at the original output of the A-128 contains a mix of all the filters, depending on the position of each one's amplitude control knob.

Finished project 

Ernst used an 8HP blind panel to create the expansion board for his A-128, drilled 15 holes, mounted the mini-jack-connectors and connected them with the correct terminals/outputs on the A-128 PCB board.
There is even the choice between pre-attenuator terminals (fixed volume) or post-attenuator.
You can find the document that shows how to add these single outputs to the filter bank A-128 in THIS PDF (from Doepfer's DIY page)

Ernst commented on the end-result:
 "Not too happy with the alignment of the mini-jacks yet. Maybe I'll need a new drill exercise..."

Maybe he should have saved himself the trouble, because if desired Doepfer can carry out this modification in the factory  (price for blind plate 8HP + 15 sockets + about one hour working time) for about Euro 100 altogether.

Pictures used with kind permission by
 http://www.ernstvanderloo.com

Doepfer Sound Sampler (1984)

Doepfer 8-bit Sound Sampler

On a random search on the internet for rare Doepfer products i came across this module in an old Matrixsynth post:
This Doepfer Sound Sampler module (8 bit voltage controlled sampler with interface and sampling software for Commodore 64) was made by Doepfer in 1984.

Sound Sampler book 
by Dieter Doepfer and 
Cristian Assall

The Doepfer CV/Gate controlled modular Sound Sampler system was available as a kit between 1984 and 1990.
The complete system was also described in detail in the book written by Dieter Doepfer and Cristian Assall called "Sound Sampler" (published by Elektor ISBN 3-921608-44-9) in 1988.
This book was dedicated to building an 8-bit modular sampler that could be edited with a Commodore 64 home-computer.
All schematics are in the book, with all PCB designs and front-panels for all modules: input, memory/sampling card (with CV/Gate), loopcard, C-64 interface and compressor/expander.

Picture via Gearslutz

Every sampler module had its own memory.
There was software available that could handle sampling, FM synthesis, Wavetable synthesis, Fourier synthesis and Waveshaping synthesis.
The C64 could be used only to modify the sampling memory (sampled sound or sound generated by software synthesis like FM or Fourier), up to 8 sampling voices.

Most of the PCB board was covered by the memory chips that were pretty expensive at the time.
The picture below shows a 6-Voice system, the Input/Interface module is left, then 6 times the Memory-Card, each with a HS-VCO to get the pitch and a Curtis filter.
Apart from the sampler was a CV/Gate controlled stand-alone unit (not on the pictures)

Later Doepfer added another extension card, the so-called CCU (computer control unit). 

With this unit it was possible to define loops with free adjustable start and end position (the software helped to find zero-transitions for a glitch-free loop), and the unit could now be fully controlled by the computer (also pitch via high-speed DCOs). 

Also an expander/compressor was available but the improvement of this addition was very small from Dieter's own point of view.

6 x Memorycard, 6 x VCO,
6x Curtis filter

Around 300 kits were sold, partly because around the same time (1984-1988) Ensoniq released their Mirage sampler that was cheaper (and easier to use) than the Doepfer sampler.

Dieter: "To some extend this was also the beginning of the Eurorack standard (instead of Doepfers/DD Systems earlier Formant sized modules) as the front panels already had the same dimensions and mounting positions as the A-100 that started in 1995."

This module was the precursor of the A-112 that was released more than a decade later, but in the A-112 one small chip contains twice the memory of the 16 large chips of the old sampler.

Special thanks to Dieter Doepfer for all additional info

LaserLoper by Gijs Gieskens

Laserloper eurorack module by Gijs Gieskens

As you all know, besides my interest in Doepfer modules i also love all other original eurorack concepts.

This one popped up on the web today, a creation of Gijs Gieskens (http://gieskes.nl) from the Netherlands.
(...also my home-country)

His latest module is a random noise generator, only a bit different than other ones.
This one is based on a small hourglass and laser technology.
As Gijs describes it on his website:

" The laser-beam seems to get bent by the falling sand (if it is sand) and shine onto the LDR (Light Dependent Resistor or Photoresistor), generating a random noise signal."

Video: Laserloper

More info at http://gieskes.nl/undefined/eurorack/?f=laserloper
(He also sells stuff... and there are many other cool eurorack creations on his website
- check out the VCOFan for example)
Find Gijs on Twitter at https://twitter.com/g1j5

BookTip XIII: Analog Days: The Invention and Impact of the Moog Synthesizer

I have had 2 whole weeks off from work this holiday season, so i had enough time to read a few interesting synth-related books.

The first one i read was 'Analog Days: The Invention and Impact of the Moog Synthesizer' by Trevor Pinch and Frank Trocco.
It's a very interesting book (368 pages) that was published in 2004, and that tells the story about Robert (Bob) Moog, synthesizers from the mid-60s to the mid-70s in general and about the Moog company and its products.

The book has a foreword by Bob Moog himself (he passed away a year after the publication of this book) and the writers have spend a large amount of time and effort into making it.
The book is filled with stories by musicians, technicians and other pioneers from that era where everyone seemed to share a same passion for analog synthesis.

The list of interviewed people for this book is too large to mention, but it includes people like Don Buchla, Suzanne Ciani, Keith Emerson, Rachel Elkind, Tom Oberheim, Alan Pearlman (from ARP) and many more.
That's a very impressive list, and the whole book is written in a chronological style, filled with many anecdotes and interesting facts, what makes it fun and easy to read.
A must-read in my humble opinion, if you are interested in this kind of stuff, of course...

Info: http://books.google.nl/books/about/Analog_Days.html?id=3hjvWzkMK-sC …
Harvard University Press, 15 nov. 2004 - 368 pages
ISBN-13: 978-0674016170

Find my earlier BookTips HERE
My next BookTip will be published somewhere next month.

Random Video: Jamming on Doepfer A-100 Modular

Found on YouTube:
A short jam showing the possibilities of a Doepfer A-178 Theremin Controller and an A-198 Ribbon Controller combination.

Video: Jamming on Doepfer A100 Modular

" Edwin (Duo Blank) jamming on Doepfer A-100 modular synth triggering sounds notes through theremin and ribbon controllers."

Uploaded by duoblank

Theremin: Magic Ceramic Custom Synth

Happy New-Year everybody!
I hope you all had a great holiday season...
I found this one on the web, but it's not really new...

Video: Magic Ceramic Theremin Lamp Doepfer A-178

" The first test of the Magic Ceramic Theremin lamp. 

It was developed as a peculiar piece for the opening of the Exhibition of several ceramists in Gallery Artibrak. from November until 28th of December 2011.

A Theremin is normally step-less, but in this case an A-156 is used as a quantizer..

Small explanation for those who are not familiar:
In this magic piece of ceramic two antenna's are integrated. 

One antenna for the volume and one for the pitch. 

The instrument does not have to be touched. 

The volume can be controlled by your left hand (when approaching it the volume increases), the pitch can be controlled by your right hand (when approaching it, the pitch of the sound goes up). 

 By approaching the antenna's you are influencing the potential difference. 

Just like the antenna of your transistor radio which functions well or not when approaching it.

(Ceramic Art by Mance)

The Magic Ceramic is based on the original Theremin invented by Léon Theremin in 1919. 

That electronic instrument is step-less variable and very expressive. 

It sounds like an opera voice or violin.

This ceramic version of the instrument has a much more variety than it's original. 

You can make the sound stepless or let it be quantized, so that you hear a real tonescale/musical scale. 

The sinus-tone of the Magic Ceramic is quantized (chopped in pieces), and in the way it is presented now only the Minor notes are heard. (like the black keys on a piano) 

In this way the steps between the notes are bigger and easier to distinguish. 

Other possibilities are just Major notes or the complete tonescale, quantized or not. 

There is also a small sampler added, so when you reach the highest note a spoken voice can be heard."
More info HERE

Video uploaded by creativegallerysynth