Hi Andrew,

That sure makes sense to me ;-)
I'm having the same 'problem' not being able to buy a pre-build system, so I decided to construct one myself, which in due case led me to Doepfer.
As you can see here http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Doepfer_a100/photos/album/1838015066/pic/list
I'm following the path you describe in your hypothetical example.

Although due to a financial constraint, I find it very satisfactory to do it myself. Getting to know your system so thoroughly is hardly possible in another way.

You might however run into problems not foreseen, but I hope the knowledge in this group will assist in solving those.

Happy constructing!

Warm regards,

Ton Akveld

--- In Doepfer_a100@yahoogroups.com , "kloppe_andrew" <andrew.kloppe@...> wrote:
>
> 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.
>