I just signed up for the AS list so that I can reply to it too. Been
meaning to do that for a while. I don't have any AS modules myself
but a local guy I know has quite a few....
> Thanks for the reply. I'm looking for that classic analogue sound in the
> first instance but definitely want to experiment, which is why I'm
> interested in taking modular route really, rather than simply buy a fixed
> synth.
Sure. Well, for a "classic" monosynth sound, the bare minimum you'll
need is an oscillator ("VCO"), a low pass ("LP") filter, a couple
envelope generators ("EG") and a voltage controlled attenuator ("VCA")
to control volume, along with the MIDI-CV converter. Anything more
than that allows you to start experimenting! If you want to extend
the sound of a monosynth, add at least one more VCO and maybe a noise
source, and some kind of mixer that you can combine them with before
sending the sound to the filter and VCA. To make a polysynth, just
duplicate that whole thing...
Simplistically, I think there are three categories of module - sound
generating, sound modifying, and control modules. When you start
experimenting, you can change any of them. There are lots of sound
generating modules out there, all the way from the simplistic
pulse/saw/sine/triangle oscillators to the Cynthia Zerocillator ($1k!)
to things like the Blacet/Wiard MiniWave. Sound modifying modules are
mostly filters, but there are other things to use (ring modulators,
etc). Control modules can be quite fun - this is where you divide
frequencies or sequences, or delay them, or invert them, etc. The way
you make something pan back and forth for example is to use a single
CV (maybe an LFO if you want a constant speed) with the direct output
controlling one VCA for one side, and inverted output controlling
another VA for the other side...
Only your budget will be the limit! You'll either embrace the
addiction or throw up your hands in disgust and sell it all... :-)
> I have read elsewhere that waiting times can be quite lengthy, is this
> something to expect in general or mainly for newly released modules
In my experience, only Blacet has has consistent shipping times. If
you can buy from a distributor like Big City or Analogue Haven, you'll
get consistent shipping, but buying direct from the various
manufacturers can be quite variable...
Doug
http://www.analognotes.com
http://www.stoogepanels.com
http://www.softsampling.com
http://www.dougwellington.com