I recently released a course on Lynda.com and LinkedIn Learning on how to use the Arturia Modular V software synth, which is modeled on the old Moog modular systems. In this movie I show how to create a typical oscillator sync patch. A couple of quick tips: In Arturia Modular V, sync is a function of each individual oscillator, rather than the oscillator driver; there is a switch for hard or weak sync (down = hard); and rather than patching the sync source as you would on a physical modular synth, in Modular V you click on an icon for a switch trigger input to bring up a menu to select which oscillator you wish to sync to.
I recently released a course on Lynda.com and LinkedIn Learning on how to use the Arturia Modular V software synth, which is modeled on the old Moog modular systems. Here I show how to create a typical PWM (pulse width modulation) patch, as well as describe some of the differences in using a Moog modular or the Modular V software compared to a typical Eurorack system.
The next big “Learning Modular Synthesis” project is Eurorack Expansion. The idea behind it is that you already have a semi-modular synth or a small modular system, and now you’re wondering what to add next. As the saying goes, you need to walk before you can run. I’ve built up a core set of deceptively boring yet essential modules that will make it easier to interface your core system with the fun new modules you’re dying to try out.
Are you modular-curious? But are you a bit intimidated by the “some – okay, a lot of assembly required” nature of creating sounds from scratch on a modular synth? And do you prefer the safety of your computer screen over racks of gear with dangling patch cords and exposed power busses (at least while starting out)? For those who want to dip a toe into the modular waters without fear of it getting bit off by some unknown creature, I created a “your first patch” video as part of my Learning Modular Synthesis: Arturia Modular V course on Lynda.com.
A perennial question is “do I really need a buffered multiple to connect to my oscillators?” The correct answer is “it depends” because there’s so many variables with the way different modules were designed. I figured it was time to flesh out those details so it didn’t seem like so much voodoo.
Many semi-modular synths have just one VCO. They usually feature a square wave with pulse width animation, but if you want to use the sawtooth wave instead, the sound can be rather static. A common addition is a second oscillator; an interesting alternative is a “waveform animator.”
