I know this is a loaded question, but hopefully somebody can give me some advice/thoughts.

What is the best way to start out with a modular system

Upfront; I have a limited number of external gears, including Dark Energy, Flame Echometer, Doepfer MAQ 16/3 and some other external board (Virus MC-505, etc.

With that in mind I'm very hesitant to buy a pre-build modular system like (a100 mini basic system, etc.). I'm simply no sure the money would justify what I get (particular since I'm overwhelmed with what I actually would need and/or want as modules) :c(

Hence, is there some good starting point without buying a 'ready-made system', only to find out (learning as I go along) what I really would like to have as a module is not present

I think the question I pose is; what is the minimum amount of gear (component) I need in order to then start adding additional modules as I seem them fit Or is a 'pre-build' started system the best way to get started

I know this question is most generic, but I thought I ask.

For Example, does it make sense, for example (an only as a hypothetical example), to get a bare-case, a midi-cv controller, some Filter(s), one or two more VCOs, 1-2 LFOs an ADSR

Again, in all this I want to keep my Dark Energy in mind (I know it is only semi-modular, hence I'm sure there are serious constraints integrating it downstream into a real modular system).

Cheers.