Writing out the objectives for your own eurorack synth will help you select from the vast sea of modules. A good way to make sure you don't forget something is to make reference to this handy list from the Make Noise Black and Gold Shared System Manual. It lists out the major components of a modular synth (albeit from a Make Noise perspective):
| CV and Gate Sources | Write your own shortlist of modules below |
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| Audio Sources | |
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| Signal Manipulation | |
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| Signal Processors | |
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Stick with the four bold headings above if any of the individual points still sound foreign to you. Took me a while to understand it as well. CVs are control voltages that allow control over things and Gates are electrical signals that trigger things. Your synth may still work by leaving out one category or another. The first two are the most important and the last two are optional but highly recommended. If you are working with a limited budget then keep to your own objectives and don't worry about checking off all the boxes.
Other points you may consider when choosing modules:
- Save as much HP as you possibly can
- Watch YouTube demos with a decent pair of headphones
- Choose modules that are feature packed with lots of knobs and jacks
- Check with your local store to see what's available first
- Have a budgeted amount of $$$ to invest over time
- Stay disciplined and don't go crazy :)
Other tutorial posts in this series:
Build Your Own Synth - Step 1: Selecting A Case
Build Your Own Synth - Step 2: Establish A Starting Point
Build Your Own Synth - Step 4: Layout
Build Your Own Synth - Step 5: Preparation
Build Your Own Synth - Step 6: Mutant Drums Boat