|
|
Post by laenan on Feb 16, 2021 18:09:55 GMT
Hello everyone! First let me say hello and thank you for all the fun I had until now looking through the AE modular stuff and especially the forum. With my first post, I would like to pitch an project idea to everyone and it would be most welcome to get some feedback (but isn't needed). Something about me
That you know with whom you are writing and doesn't overrun me with to much knowledge: I'm a physical chemist by training and finishing my thesis atm. From the lab and some personal project I'm quite OKish with DIY projects, so I was really happy to hear about AEM. Then there is, that I have no clue, why I'm interest in synthesizers. :-D Besides that I played an instrument during elementary school (violin, didn't went that well) I have no clue about music, synths or anything related. From my professional training I have some knowledge with waves and generating waves in arbitrary waveforms. But that is mostly in the GHz range, so no real use for acoustics. As I now finished Lab, I really miss working with and debugging machines, turning knobs, fire up the scope and connect some (random) cables in the hope the experiment will work (spoiler: doesn't work that nice most of the time ;-)). Equipment that is around
I learned from the FAQ that it is important for you to know what equipment is around. Besides lots of spare parts from different DIY projects (like leds, arduinos, esp32/8266, etc.) I have nearly no acoustical equipment. Only a Zoom H4 with one external Mic is around. And an okeyish camera for video conferences. Driving questions
So you might ask yourself: What is this project idea of yours and why are you bothering me with this. I would like to get feedback in three categories from you: 1) Do you think this project would be interesting for anyone except myself? 2) Do you think this can work with me being a total n00b with (electronic) music? 3) What do you think about the 'plan'? The project idea
I thought about creating a (video)blog where I share my insights about learning how to use a synth and get music that doesn't make you run in the first seconds. I would like not only to explain what I put together but also some physics/electronics behind that because I guess this would help me learning. The idea would be to start with even less than what is in the starter kits (maybe only 2-3 modules) and bring in one module/principle with every step. This could include some user interaction (which module to go next, what challenge, etc.). And it would include some DIY stuff for sure! (offtopic: Has s.o. ever tried to bring in some real time data to generate music like WiFi signals, neutrinos, atmospheric parameters, ... with AEM DIY stuff?) I have some more ideas, but that is the essential core. I have seen the videos of "The 5th Volt" and loved them. As he is doing something similar but with far more knowledge I'm not sure if a project like this would be of interest for anyone. But I thought about offering the content in German as I didn't found s.th. similar in that language. And I should add that I thought about this project as a kind of reward for myself, finishing the thesis. But as delivery times can be longer I guess starting/planning now would be beneficial. Goal of the project
Let's be completely transparent: Main goal isn't to create content, but for me to have fun and maybe learn about modular synths. And sharing my trails with s.o. else motivates me to keep going (maybe). Open questions
There are several open questions. I note them down here more for reference/book keeping, but feel free to comment on them. Every input from true experts is helpful for me! - What are the best modules to start? Buy a starter package or buy only a few modules and extend later on with more knowledge?
- Video or blog (or both)? Timeframe?
- Should I really start with a modular system or better use s.th. easier?
- What equipment is needed besides the basic modules at the very beginning? A good scope (with computer interface) to explain what is happening? A MIDI keyboard/input? An external sequencer or use one of the AEM sequencer?
- Would it be helpful to get a 'tutor' for myself? Should I use some resource (book, blog, etc.) to use their steps while exploring AEM.
Of course ask, if you have any questions concering me or the project idea. Highly curious about your opinions!
Cheers,
Laenan
|
|
|
|
Post by admin on Feb 16, 2021 21:49:40 GMT
Hello laenan, Welcome to our forum! I'm glad that you've written this post because I think you put into words what many of us have been thinking about when we first started out making music and uploading our videos to YouTube. First off, I have to say that it would be absolutely fantastic to see tutorial videos for the AE Modular in languages other than English! Not everyone is a polyglot and I have seen a few requests especially on Facebook from people wanting some instructions in French or Spanish for instance. So if you would make a series of tutorial videos in German, that would most definitely fill an important niche! Secondly, I would recommend not to overthink this too much. The most important aspect is to have fun! If you record a video of yourself having fun or showing your enthusiasm for the topic or device that you're presenting then this is much more attractive to viewers than the production value, ie. what gear you used to record it. At some stage it will make sense to plan out a series of topics and maybe to write a script, but personally I wouldn't bother with it too much. All my videos have been completely unscripted although sometimes I had to do more editing to iron out mistakes or even do a second take. To start a YouTube channel is super easy! You already have the Zoom recorder which will take care of capturing the sound of your AE and the H4 can also record your voice at the same time. For the video you only need a mobile phone and a tripod or something to hold your phone steady over the top of the AE. Using a USB cable you can connect your H4 recorder to your phone and that will synchronise the sound from the recorder with the video so you have it all recorded in the camera, ready to put on YouTube. For post production you can use any of the freely available programs, iMovie if you're on a Mac, OpenShot, ShotCut on a Windows machine. Also Hitfilm or even DaVinci Resolve if you're feeling adventurous. That is how I started. I had an old iPhone 5 and an cheap audio interface connected straight to the phone and my videos were edited in ShotCut. Only over time did I upgrade to a better phone (because of better wide angle lens), better audio interface (which eliminated some nasty hum and noise) and just now after 2 years I'm investing in a "proper" digital camera ... but that is not cheap and comes with a myriad of other problems. For content, just show whatever you find interesting or what you think someone else should have done, but hasn't!  You may want to have a look at the Wiki module documentation where we have tutorial videos for some of the modules, but not every single one. It would be great if more people could do introduction videos for all those modules. wiki.aemodular.com/pmwiki.php/AeManual/ModulesMy recommendation (and I think it's the consensus among us old-timers here on the forum) is to buy the Starter Rack 2 if you can afford it. It is really the best bang for your buck and offers enough options for you to play any kind of music you would want. It is also cheaper than buying the same modules individually! I hope all of this was helpful, but also don't hesitate to ask if you need more info. I'm always happy to help where I can. Cheers, Carsten. |
|
|
|
Post by laenan on Feb 16, 2021 22:25:38 GMT
Hey! Thank you for your advise and the kind words.
Just though about ordering that kit. I guess there is no possibility for configuration (change the case or a single module for example) to benefit from a cheap price?
Cheers, Laenan
|
|
|
|
Post by admin on Feb 16, 2021 22:34:12 GMT
You can absolutely put a note in with your order and add another module or change a module. Robert is usually very accommodating.
|
|
|
|
Post by MaxRichardson97 on Feb 16, 2021 23:08:50 GMT
Hello! Welcome!
The AE is a great platform, but is definitely a bit tough to get your head around if you're new to modular. As previously stated, the starter rack 2 is definitely a great starting point, it's got all you'll need to get started on the wonderful world of modular music - without being too much to overwhelm you.
I, and many others, started with the starter rack - and added modules when I knew what I wanted from the system. If you work that way, it'll mean you're able to create your own unique system that does whatever you want it to, whether that's a lot of sound sources, filters or CV tools.
Essentially, all the modules in the starter rack are probably modules you'd end up needing otherwise, like the VCA, LFO, ENV and Oscillator modules. I didn't change anything with my rack, but I imagine you could - definitely worth asking!
Hope you enjoy the journey, the start is the most exciting part!
|
|
|
|
Post by funbun on Feb 17, 2021 0:05:09 GMT
You're in good company. Half the people here are engineers and scientists of various sorts. Get the Starter II. You'll need enough modules to make a complete voice. It takes quite a number of support modules to get the thing to do anything. I like you attitude. Learning synthesis is exactly where you should start. Either the Starter I or II will do that.
And don't think you have to make music. Soundscapes are just as important to modular synthesis as music. It's really about learning sound. Trust me: Most musicians don't actually know much about sound. If I were to teach music, I'd teach synthesis first just so they can understand sound. Without sound there is no music.
|
|
|
|
Post by keurslagerkurt on Feb 17, 2021 8:28:49 GMT
Just wanted to chime in: the Starter Rack II is really a fantastic starting point in this system. It's good to go with a 'curated' module mix like this when you are not very experienced, otherwise its really easy to forget some critical modules that you really NEED in order to shape your sound. I think your mindset is the right one, you can see the system as a playground for sound and electric experiments, its not a type of 'plug and play' music instrument. Which also makes it very free-ing to use for non-musicians: its not necessarily about playing the right chord progressions and funky rhythms, you can create great music with experiment and knob twisting. Considering your questions: 'What about something easier?' I think AE is about the 'easiest' it gets with starter modular systems, eg. I found the Volca Modular way harder to wrap my head around. And classic instruments are only 'easier' for classic musicians  'What equipment extra is needed?' If you want to experiment also with diy, I think a scope is very welcome indeed. There is also an AE scope module available. Or you could order a cheap china DSO138 kit. I suppose you have basic soldering equipment? And if you're into software programming, you could also look into the Grains module, or look into the Arduino/Teensy threads in the diy forum. I would not buy an external sequencer from the start, the SEQ8 from the starter rack should be enough for the first stretch of time. External keyboard might be worth it (eg an arturia keystep) and is not very expensive. But it depends whether you enjoy playing keyboards ofc, and if you like to play notes live or rather just sequence them. I almost never use my AE with an external keyboard, but I mainly make highly repetitive techno 'Tutor to begin?' To be honest, I think at this point YouTube and Google are the best tutors. You can watch tons of more broad music synthesis, or even Eurorack content and it will all be applicable to the AE system as much as any other synth. Also for the DIY stuff, while there are def books around worth your time ('the art of electronics', 'small signal audio design', etc etc), I think you learn most by searching and digesting at your own tempo. Just don't get frustrated, info can be scattered and it takes a longer time to connect the broad dots of audio design and electronics. But every month you'll notice you pick up some new things and when you come back to old schematics you'll find yourself understanding them way better. 'Real time data to music?' Well there is this fantastic slowscape video, but I don't know if it fits what you're searching for exactly: Very interested to see where this journey would bring you, and like 5th Volt said, if you have fun, it'll be fun to watch! |
|
andy
New Member
Posts: 38
|
Post by andy on Feb 17, 2021 9:26:25 GMT
Hi and welcome to the wonderful world of modular synthesis My view on the "open questions" What are the best modules to start? As others mentioned, a starter rack would be a good start. BUT, having in mind the goal and idea of your project, even if you get a starter rack 1 or 2, I'd start the videos by leaving only the Master and 2-3 modules, then for each video add one module at a time. Video or blog (or both)? Timeframe? Video is better imho - you can see the knob tweaking and immediately hear what happens with the sound. Should I really start with a modular system or better use s.th. easier? If you get something with a fixed architecture, you will tire of it quickly, and will not have that much material to keep the videos coming. Especially if you want to bring in your physics and electronics expertise, then modular is the way to start and stay. For life What equipment is needed besides the basic modules at the very beginning? The AE Meter module features AC and DC scope, but also a frequency analyzer, so it can be useful to present not only waves and waveshaping, but also the effect of filters etc. and sits within the box. Would it be helpful to get a 'tutor' for myself? Should I use some resource (book, blog, etc.) to use their steps while exploring AEM. Beginners like you and me usually start on the internet, there is a lot of info and a lot of helpful people on the forum. Also, an idea came to my mind...when you start the video series (or blog articles) you could announce in the end that next time this or that module will be added to the system, and ask viewers to put in comments below what uses and patches they would suggest for the module you will present next. This will be a quick way to learn a lot about one particular module before getting to the next one, and you will be amazed how many different uses people make of the same module. This will also help you with structuring your content. Regarding resources, probably the best way to start is reading Gordon Reid's Synth Secrets. You can find the complete article series here: Synth Secrets PDF Overall, a very good project, I know I won't be able to enjoy it as my German is on the "toddler" level, but if you link your project here on the forum, I'd happily comment when the time comes for you to present my favorite modules Good luck, Andy |
|
|
|
Post by moruial on Feb 17, 2021 9:51:02 GMT
As everyone said, go for a starter rack, it's the best thing you can go, and you'll have enough modules to try out any ideas you may have about patching. With the starter rack there is a little sheet about how to manage your first patches, it's a very easy step by step guide and it will give you lots of insight on how things work and what you'll be able to do with your modules. After that it depend on what kind of music our sound you want to produce, it can be noise, drone, techno, ambient, Brelin school, whatever, you can pretty much do anything with the modular. AEM has that it's really cheap price in comparaison to Eurorack, and every month there a re new excitings modules! On a personnal level, I've started my AEM journey, 2 years ago with a second hand starter rack, and today I'm waiting to add 2 more 2row case full of modules. i still don't know jack about synthesis, but I like to patche things and discover new sounds and textures.
What you may want to add in a near future to have a "better" sound is a reverb maybe. You can use the really great MULTIFX or an external reverb. The choices are limitless. Also you'll always find somebody here, on the forum who will share his knowledge and help you with whaterver question you may have, it is a little but great community and there are new people ever weeks.
Wellcome aboard young man, and don't worry about the modular world, it will be worth it |
|
|
|
Post by laenan on Feb 19, 2021 0:30:10 GMT
Thanks to all of you for the feedback!
Then I just have to finalize the order for the Starter Pack II. :-) I read in the Blog that there is the possibility for colored acrylic cases and would love to have a green one. Will see what the feedback from TW is.
To the equipment: Yes, soldering iron is available. :-)
keurslagerkurt Yep, exactly something like that. My head is buzzing with ideas atm (Wifi, Bluetooth, Gamification, Replicating some Science, Voice, ...) but I should learn the basics first...
Then I just have to finish my thesis to earn the privilege to start a new project/hobby.
Cheers, Laenan
|
|
|
|
Post by MaxRichardson97 on Feb 19, 2021 12:02:03 GMT
Thanks to all of you for the feedback!
Then I just have to finalize the order for the Starter Pack II. :-) I read in the Blog that there is the possibility for colored acrylic cases and would love to have a green one. Will see what the feedback from TW is.
To the equipment: Yes, soldering iron is available. :-)
keurslagerkurt Yep, exactly something like that. My head is buzzing with ideas atm (Wifi, Bluetooth, Gamification, Replicating some Science, Voice, ...) but I should learn the basics first...
Then I just have to finish my thesis to earn the privilege to start a new project/hobby.
Cheers, Laenan
Excellent choice! Really can't go wrong with the starter rack - it's got essential modules, and enough room to grow! |
|
|
|
Post by pt3r on Feb 19, 2021 15:40:07 GMT
Thanks to all of you for the feedback!
Then I just have to finalize the order for the Starter Pack II. :-) I read in the Blog that there is the possibility for colored acrylic cases and would love to have a green one. Will see what the feedback from TW is.
To the equipment: Yes, soldering iron is available. :-)
keurslagerkurt Yep, exactly something like that. My head is buzzing with ideas atm (Wifi, Bluetooth, Gamification, Replicating some Science, Voice, ...) but I should learn the basics first...
Then I just have to finish my thesis to earn the privilege to start a new project/hobby.
Cheers, Laenan
Excellent idea, but if your budget allows it I would personally add another 2VCA and an 2ENV module to your order(as they say in modular, you cannot have enough vca's) and a multiFX module because it will do miracles to your sound. Good luck with your upcoming modular endeavors and welcome to the forum.
|
|
|
|
Post by pt3r on Feb 19, 2021 15:42:29 GMT
And before I forget, modular is a gateway drug  I'm already planning the construction of a second 2 row case... |
|
|
|
Post by pt3r on Feb 19, 2021 16:01:56 GMT
And add some extra patchcables sets to your order even with a 2 row case I find myself runiing out of cables some times. Frustrating to say the least.
|
|
|
|
Post by moruial on Feb 19, 2021 19:08:22 GMT
And add some extra patchcables sets to your order even with a 2 row case I find myself runiing out of cables some times. Frustrating to say the least. you never have enough patch cable. especially if you are doing some noise or drone. 😁 |
|
|
|
Post by slowscape on Feb 24, 2021 23:08:04 GMT
keurslagerkurt Yep, exactly something like that. My head is buzzing with ideas atm (Wifi, Bluetooth, Gamification, Replicating some Science, Voice, ...) but I should learn the basics first...
I did another video even more along those lines. For drone day I set my synth up for 9 hours while people played it through the youtube live chat. I utilized the youtube API to pull chat messages, then convert them to midi which was sent to the AEM. There wasn't a ton of traffic to my live video unfortunately so you will need to skip around to see it in action, otherwise it's just a steady drone sound  |
|
You may want to have a look at the Wiki module documentation where we have tutorial videos for some of the modules, but not every single one. It would be great if more people could do introduction videos for all those modules. 
I'm already planning the construction of a second 2 row case...
