There is no doubt that the popularity of modular synthesis is rising. You don’t have to look far to see the enormous interest in these instruments, in clubs, studios and bedrooms and worldwide. But what exactly are these boxes of coloured cables and knobs? Are they worth the investment? Do they live up to their hype?

Musical fads come and go. Interestingly though, modular synthesis has come full circle. Due to its limitless nature, modular will virtually never date. It is always able to reinvent itself. Because of this, lies the true beauty and power of modular synthesis.

There is no right or wrong when using modular. With that in mind though, it does require at least an interest in synthesizers. A passion for sound creation and a desire to expand your knowledge and understanding of synthesis is also important!

Modular synthesis might seem daunting to you if you’ve never worked with it before. Once you understand the core aspects of how it works though, it will become much clearer. That’s the purpose of this article. Like most things, the more you learn and increase your knowledge of modular synthesis, the more experienced you will become. Let’s get started!

MODULAR SYNTHESIS = NO MORE NEED FOR PRESETS

Stepping into the world of modular marks a move away from the standard presets that you may be familiar with using on other synthesizers. Not that there is anything wrong with preset sounds! They are an incredibly useful tool, especially when you’re starting out. However, nothing beats the feeling of creating your very own patch from scratch.

Patches that you create are patches that no one else can access. They are uniquely and solely your own. It is these kinds of patches that take your music to new areas and make your sound distinctively your own.

In the same way that you would select any musical instrument, choosing which modular you would like to use is a key step. If we were selecting a guitar, for instance, we would think about if we wanted an acoustic or an electric. The same goes for selecting a modular synth. As such, this selection does require some thought.

YOUR FIRST STEPS WHEN STARTING WITH MODULAR SYNTHESIS

There are so many options and pathways you can explore. As such, it’s good to have an idea of what you want from the instrument. You might even change direction once you’ve started. This is fine! Planning will provide you with some direction during the early stages of creating your system. Asking these questions early will help you to determine which modules you will need to get started.

It will also help you to decide where to put your focus and the options that will be available to you. This helps to determine your budget and how much you are able to spend on different modules. After all, you don’t want to spend your hard-earned cash on a modular system that you later find out is not what you want!

Maybe you’re looking to expand your live rig? In that case, make sure to check out our article which takes you through the process of integrating a Modular Synth into Live Performance. An Effects Rig is another exciting new way to incorporate the power of modular into your rig. Plus, it will work with most gear in your existing setup.

UNDERSTANDING AND NAVIGATING THE FUNDAMENTALS

The world of modular synthesis is vast. It’s something that you can spend a lifetime navigating. There are, however, a few key concepts that you will need to know. These will assist you in the control of your modular. Remember, knowledge and understanding are key to mastering modular synthesis!

We are going to outline a few of these concepts soon. But we should mention that one of the best ways to learn about modular synthesis is to talk to other modular users! You can do this through online forums, live events, modular meet-ups and workshops. Try and get as much hands-on experimenting experience as possible, it’s great for progressing.

Sometimes, you will be able to research and study certain elements, but asking questions in forums is a fantastic way to explore the broader community. Make sure to use our Synth Terms Reference Guide when navigating these forums.

THE ESSENTIAL MODULES THAT EVERY MODULAR NEEDS

Modules are individual components of a greater whole. When we connect these components, we have a modular system. All of our individual components work together to create the final result – our own unique sound! So to help with our understanding here, it’s useful to think of the individual modules as stages in the journey of our sound.

Virtually every type of module you can imagine is available for modular synthesis use. From the extremely weird to the super functional, there is something for everyone. There are some that are essential to making actual audible sound. Others provide more flexibility and open new sonic territories. The essential modules are:

1. SOURCE MODULES

SOURCE modules have a signal output and typically no signal input. These are sound sources like Voltage Controlled Oscillators (VCOs) and Noise sources. They also include control sources like LFOs and Envelope Generators.

2. PROCESSOR MODULES

PROCESSOR modules shape the sound of the audio signal. Timbre is processed with a Voltage Controlled Filters (VCF), volume is shaped by a Voltage Controlled Amplifiers (VCA) and effects are added with Delay, Phaser, and Ring Modulator modules.

3. LOGIC MODULES

LOGIC modules provide information to control clock timings and can be used for switching (e.g. NAND gates, clock pulse triggers). When logic functions are applied to a modular system, they can be used to combine different Gate or Trigger signals. They help to create interesting patterns in your envelope generators or sequencers.

But how do these modules relate to one another and how are they used together to create the final sound? With communication!

MIDI & CV – THE COMMUNICATION YOU NEED FOR CONTROL

Modular synthesis requires a method of control for increasing its usability and potential. Switches, knobs, sliders and other functions need manipulating, sometimes all at the same time! Of course, it’s not always possible to do this with 2 hands. To combine our various modules and their individual features that we use, we have 2 main methods available to us. These are Control Voltage and MIDI.

Control Voltage (or CV), refers to the electrical signals that are sent from one module or device to control another. Control Voltage is the original language of modular synthesis. It is how we send a signal between various modules and how we get these devices to “talk” to one another.

We create patches by connecting multiple CV sources (Pitch, Tempo, On/Off signal) to other destinations with patch cables. This is why modular systems often look like an intense collection of cables! Every time you want to send one source to another, a physical connection made with a cable is required.

As we mentioned earlier, we are not limited to just CV in relation to controlling our modular. We can also make use of the incredible power of MIDI, to expand and exploit our sound.

Keeping in mind that MIDI sends digital signal and CV uses electrical signals, we need to find a way to get both signals to work together. We can do this using a MIDI-to-CV converter.

CONVERSION

Due to the differences in command language, a MIDI-to-CV converter is crucial when wanting to use external gear, like a laptop or hardware sequencer alongside your modular. Without a MIDI-to-CV converter, your MIDI-less modular will run exclusively off Control Voltage. MIDI allows your modular to become a key studio and live performance instrument.

A MIDI-to-CV converter faithfully converts digital MIDI messages into analog Control Voltage electrical signals. It enables you to connect your external hardware to your modular synth. Making this connection is key to performing live with your modular synth.

Through this MIDI-to-CV connection, you can send Pitch CV and Gate information from an external device to your modular. Some also allow you to control additional parameters like Velocity, Aftertouch, and Mod Wheel operations. It is also a crucial element for keeping your modular synced, or keeping in time with your external gear. Some MIDI-to-CV converters incorporate a MIDI Out, which gives your modular synth the power to act as the master clock for your whole setup.

While converters are a useful tool for full modular exploitation, you may not even require one to get sequencing! Some synthesizers and sequencers come equipped with CV and Gate outputs, as well as a MIDI connection. The video above demonstrates how you can use the TB-03’s famed sequencer to send Pitch and Gate information to a modular synth.

Modular synthesizers require the physical patching between patch points to make use of CV. But there is an option for those that want the freedom of patch points, without the need to always patch up..

SEMI-MODULAR VS MODULAR

You may have noticed the word semi–modular appearing here and there. Perhaps you’re wondering what it means. How is it different to simply, “modular” synthesis? And could it perhaps be the best option for you?

A semi-modular synthesizer has a fixed signal path. This means it can operate without the need for patching, just like a standalone synthesizer voice, similar to the more common synthesizers you are familiar with, i.e. the Roland Juno and Jupiter series. Its key difference to a standard synth though, comes from the additional patch points that allow you to modify and rework the signal path. To access these patch points, we make use of Control Voltage.

The beauty of the semi-modular synth lies in its flexible nature and ability to expand, without being dependent on external patching to produce audio. The result is a highly adaptable instrument, both in application and sound, with the ease of use of a standard synthesizer. This is what sees the semi-modular synth retain popularity with both beginners and synth heads alike.

It is a smart choice for beginners that are feeling overwhelmed by the learning curve. If you are starting out, and are keen to dabble your feet in modular, it would be a safe choice that would not overwhelm, but still satisfy. It is much cheaper than buying the individual components to make up your own modular and requires less time spent researching individual modules.

Incorporating a semi-modular synth to an existing rig expands your capabilities. You also have the benefits of a more “straightforward” synth, in case an entirely modular rig seems like a bit too much for you! A synth like the System-1m is invaluable to any modular rig. It provides additional oscillators, LFOs and envelopes with the patch of a lead. As you learn and become more confident, you can expand on it with a full Eurorack system like the System-500, for even more experimentation, flexibility and control.

Semi-modular systems, like the System-1m, also come with a MIDI input. This allows you to sequence externally without needing to purchase an additional converter. This is one reason why people choose pre-made systems, rather than starting from scratch. If you are working on a tight budget, it’s an ideal way to save money.

In addition, Ableton Live connectivity makes semi-modular rigs like the System-1m a useful studio and live performance tool. You can bring the power of your DAW to your hardware rig. It will increase your capabilities, sound palette and performance ability.

BREAK DOWN (SH-101)

Now let’s break down a standard, fixed signal path, monophonic synthesizer and reveal the typical components you need to make a classic mono synth sound. Using the Roland SH-101 as an example, we can see the modules you would need to recreate a relatively simple signal path.

All synthesizers require a sound source. This usually comes from a VCO or Noise source. These will produce the physical voltage required to create audio. The SH-101 hosts one VCO, alongside a Noise source and a dual-octave, sub-oscillator.

These 4 sound sources can be blended in the Source Mixer. This acts in a similar fashion to a standard DJ/audio mixer. We use modules like this to mix audio signals and CV signal, i.e. combining the audio from two different oscillators. They can also combine the CV from two different LFOs to create a more complex LFO.

The audio signal will continue traveling, through the Voltage Controlled Filter (VCF) and into a Voltage Controlled Amplifier (VCA). The SH-101 has only one Envelope Generator. It is shared by both the VCF and VCA sections.

To replicate this same SH-101 patch in a modular system, you would require a Mult module. A Mult module can duplicate the envelope signal sent to both VCF and VCA sections. The SH-101 also features a single LFO section, allowing you to modulate the VCA, and Pitch and Pulse Width of the VCO.

When we begin to understand the amazing things we can do with such a simple signal path, we become aware of the enormous potential in flexibility that a modular synth provides. When breaking this signal path down component by component, we begin to reveal the inherent limitations in fixed signal path synthesizers.

Consider this – you want to modulate the VCA to create a specific rhythmic effect. But, you need a different LFO speed for your desired pitch modulation. You would now require a secondary LFO to set each one to different Rate and Depth settings. This is where modular shines, highlighting the power in signal flexibility. You are free to add as many different LFOs, at varying speeds and waveforms, to be sent anywhere on your modular. You can see how creative and inspiring the results can quickly become.

As you can imagine, things can become expensive quickly and rack real estate begins to become a key point of concern. To replicate the same signal path, you will need to invest in multiple VCOs, LFOs, envelopes, and utilities. This is where dual modules become very useful.

POWER OF DUAL ENERGY

Dual modules, like those found in the System-500 synthesizer, are the perfect way to save rack space and money when first starting out. Your possibilities are broadened significantly with the power of dual modules, and more adventurous, complex patches are easier to achieve.

The System-500 is a powerful, fully analog, modern version of the classic Roland System-100m synthesizer. It faithfully recreates its famed predecessor, while exploiting modern technology for heightened results. Its dual design means you can get the most out of your synth patch, with minimal rack space and cost.

Each module comes with dual offerings – for instance, the 512 contains two identical VCOs. The 521 comes with two Low Pass Filters (LPF) and one HPF (High Pass Filter). The 530 module contains two Amp sections, each with 3 individual inputs for each. Rather than a single LFO and Envelope Generator, the 540 module contains 2 Envelope Generators and an LFO. The Envelope Generators can also be switched to Cycle mode, which basically turns them into two additional LFOs, with the Attack and Decay times controlling the Rate and Shape.

These multi-function designs ensure that you get the most value and flexibility out of your modular system. They are a great choice for those who are limited in rack space, or who are hoping to have as much patching freedom as possible.

You can also learn about the history of Roland’s collaboration with Eurorack heavyweights Malekko in the video below.

GET PATCHING!

Although most closely associated with electronic music, modular synths can be integrated into virtually any style of music and live performance setup. Artists from diverse musical backgrounds are now using modular synthesizers in a range of innovative and interesting ways. Modular offers a heightened level of power and control from standard fixed signal path synthesizers. They allow you to craft a uniquely individual and distinctive sound.

With groundbreaking new modular systems like the System-500 and System-1m, and an industry growing through incredible innovation, it has never been more accessible and exciting to step into the world of modular. The flexible nature of modular synthesis means that you will forever be inspired by its limitless creative potential.

Stand out from the crowd – who needs classic synth sounds anyway! Alternatively, recreate your favourite patches with the added flexibility of modular components. Master synthesis while defining your own sound with modular.

The first modular synthesizers created were complex instruments that quickly found a place with studio engineers and more technically minded musicians. “Modulars” were so large and expensive that few people had the chance to play with one. Keyboard synthesizers quickly became the synthesist’s weapon of choice and the relatively inaccessible modular synths were left in storage and studio back room, quickly abandoned due to their inherent limitations.

It wasn’t until the late 1990’s that the next generation of modular synth was born: the Eurorack. Smaller in design and more affordable in price, this modern configuration reignited interest in the old modular format, sparking intense experimentation and innovation. The Eurorack standard now encompasses a variety of brands that work seamlessly alongside one another, allowing you to customise the synth to suit your individual needs and adjust the patches as you perform. Its tactile nature, interactive quality and vast sonic possibilities led to a rise in its use as a live performance-based instrument. Finally, the modular synthesizer could leave the studio and take its place on stage. However, one of the big challenges in performing live with a modular synthesizer is working out how to best integrate the instrument with the rest of your setup, and other performers on stage. Multiple synths, controllers, drum machines, laptops with DAWs, and many other instruments all add more variables to an already complex stage setup. But there is one thing that helps pull everything together and enables the modular synthesizer to talk to everything on stage, both humans and machines.

MIDI

Do not let these four letters scare you. By understanding a few key pieces to the live setup puzzle, you can have your modular synthesizer front and center at your next gig!

WHAT IS M-I-D-I?

MIDI is a language that allows different pieces of gear to speak to one another. It is the means of sending information between devices, and allows you to control numerous parameters within the machines. MIDI contains no audio content and instead sends out a digital message that informs your sound source how it should perform. Think of a MIDI message as the signal your remote control sends to your TV: You can turn your TV on or off, change channels, change volume and all other kinds of controls. The same is for a controller sending a MIDI message to a synthesizer – several examples of which are shown below:

• ‘Note on’ refers to the pitch of each individual note
• ‘Note off’ message indicates when a note has been released and should end
• Velocity information indicates the volume of that note; the higher the velocity, the louder the note will be when played back
• You can select different ‘channels’ so that you can control one synthesizer at a time – say a synth on MIDI channel 4 – or all at once (omni mode)
• Plus many more advanced controls can be controlled such as aftertouch, program changes, continuous changes, pitch wheel operations, pedal information and System Exclusive (SysEx) data

But MIDI is not the only language you must understand to master the modular synthesizer live. Learning how to “speak” Control Voltage, or CV, will help you connect external controllers to your modular setup and connect individual modules in your synthesizer to create patches.

CONTROL VOLTAGE

If MIDI and Control Voltage (CV) are languages, then MIDI is a digital format and CV is analog, in this case the CV refers to the electrical signals used for one module to control another. A patch is created by connecting multiple CV sources (pitch, tempo, on/off signal) to destinations by using patch cables.

Primarily CV is used in three key ways; modulation, gate and triggering

• Modulation signals shape – or modulate – a sound source. LFOs and ADSRs are common modulation tools that can sweep a filter, shape the volume of a synth patch or change pulse-width for timbral effects
• Gate CV indicates when a note is pressed and how long that note is held – just like pressing a note on a keyboard. Also, gate signals can turn specified parameters on and off. When a gate signal is sent to an ADSR envelope, CV molds the shape of that envelope
• A trigger signal is a short burst of voltage. Triggers are used to control the tempo of a patch, or to trigger drum sequences. A trigger initiates sound from the sound module, but does not have the same sustained signal as a gate. It is an important tool when clocking your modular from external machines

But at times you might have a MIDI controller/keyboard/sequencer and your modular synth only takes CV. Making this connection is key to performing live with your modular synth and lies in one piece of equipment: the MIDI-to-CV converter.

MIDI-TO-CV

A MIDI-to-CV converter is able to speak both languages required for your live setup. It converts digital MIDI messages into an analog Control Voltage enabling you to connect your MIDI hardware to your modular. You can send note information from an external device to your modular, such as pitch and gate information, or more advanced control parameters like velocity, aftertouch, pitch and mod wheel operations.

But a key factor in performing live with a modular synthesizer is keeping everything at the same tempo – or keeping “in sync”. A MIDI-to-CV converter also allows you to clock your modular from another synthesizer, drum machine or even your DAW, so that everything runs perfectly in time together. Some MIDI-to-CV converters incorporate a MIDI Out, which gives your modular synth the power to act as the master clock source for your set up – basically providing the tempo that drives everything else.

The AIRA SBX-1 allows your modular synth to communicate and synchronise with external gear, your computer and other electronic instruments

KEYBOARD

Connecting a keyboard to your modular system, via MIDI, allows you to play the modular like a traditional keyboard synthesizer. The MIDI output of the keyboard connects to the MIDI input of the modular via a MIDI cable. The amount of MIDI data the modular receives will be dependant on the kind of MIDI-to-CV converter you use, and as with any piece of gear some are more comprehensive than others. It should be noted that some keyboards already have dedicated built-in CV and Gate outputs, which can be used to send information to the modular synth without the need for a MIDI-to-CV converter.

SEQUENCER

There are various types of sequencers available, spanning both the hardware and digital realms. Both types work in a similar manner, but differ in their editing capabilities and the way information is displayed.

Rather than performing live with a keyboard, a sequencer allows you to manually enter, delete and replace musical notes. Sequences can be created, lengthened, shortened and reshaped on the fly, adding a new performance element and allowing for heightened improvisation within the performance.

Modulating sequencers is a technique that provides dynamic note/drum patterns and is an important consideration when performing live with a modular. Why bore the audience with a repeating pattern for ten minutes? Adding control voltage or MIDI automation to your sequences keeps your performance interesting and the listener’s ear engaged for what is coming next.

Sequences can also be pre-prepared, accommodating complex, multi-part compositions. Bringing a MIDI sequence to your performance via your DAW enables you to bring your studio creations on to the stage with ease.

WHO USES A MODULAR SYNTHESIZER LIVE?

A growing number of artists and DJs have begun to integrate modular synths into their own live sets. This additional performance element allows them to create a more unique and interesting listening experience. While modular synths have become synonymous with electronic music, they can be integrated into virtually any style of music and any live performance rig. Performers from all creative backgrounds are now using modular synthesizers in a variety of innovative and interesting ways. Here are some of our favourites –

Jonny Greenwood (Radiohead)

Jonny Greenwood is a multi-instrumentalist and composer, best known for his work in the band Radiohead. Jonny’s modular system can be heard on some of their most revered songs, and over the years he has integrated a number of different modular systems into Radiohead’s live sets. From 2012, Jonny used his French Connection’s keyboard connected to his modular system, to play parts on tracks including How To Disappear Completely and Packt Like Sardines In A Crushed Tin Box. With his modular, he produces off-kilter beats and unusual soundscapes, using clock dividers and patch cables to change the pattern of the drums live (see Idioteque).

Alessandro Cortini (NIN)

Alessandro Cortini uses multiple modular systems when performing and recording in the band Nine Inch Nails. The separate modular synths are clocked together via MIDI, and the sequencer modules are synced with the master clock of the band. With his modular rig he creates dramatic percussive sounds, drones and pads, using a volume pedal to bring the modular parts in and out. He runs his modular rigs through a variety of pedals to further shape the sounds live.

Kaitlyn Smith

After studying composition and sound engineering at the Berklee College of Music, Kaitlyn Smith began performing in the indie-folk band Ever Isles, on guitar and vocals. She then turned her attention to the Buchla 100 synthesizer, which had a dramatic impact on her music style and performance methods. Her current live sets highlight the power of the synthesizer, turning rhythmic and melodic pulses into walls of unique luscious soundscapes.

Surgeon

Techno god, Surgeon, made news when he performed in support of Lady Gaga on a eurorack modular synthesizer. Alongside a growing number of artists, Surgeon has also taken his modular system into the club environment, creating a hybrid live + DJ set. By syncing his modular synth to his laptop, the modular synth stays in time with the music as the tempo changes. He is then able to layer the modular synth over tracks playing from Ableton, which creates a more exciting and live feeling DJ set. This setup provides more space for creativity and adds a unique performance element, which is now being emulated around the world.

Danny Carey (Tool)

Having previously used the Roland System 700 in studio recordings, Danny Carey of Tool debuted his custom built modular rig in Australia during their 2013 tour. Demonstrating the versatile nature of the modular synth, Carey performs drum solos over the top of flying analogue synth and percussive sounds.

Russell Haswell

Russell Haswell is the UK-based, multi-disciplinary noise artist using modular synthesis to create physical, chaotic and very noisy music. His live performances are part techno, part noise, with a strong focus of improvisation and experimentation. In his work, he highlights the power of the modular synth as a self-contained unit, and demonstrates that you really don’t need any MIDI to get the most out of these impressive instruments.

The modular synthesizer is an invaluable learning and performance tool, with the ability to customize the instrument to perfectly suit your needs and desires as an artist and live performer. There are various ways you are able to integrate a modular synth into a pre-existing live setup, and the power of MIDI and control voltage allows for a smooth amalgamation of all gear types. From sequencing to performing on a keyboard, you can incorporate the modular into any style of music and any live rig. Whether you are a laptop performer, band member, or hardware player, if you are looking to add a unique element to your live set, the modular synth is an exciting option you can explore. The possibilities are literally endless with these powerful machines.

GENERAL TIPS FOR LIVE PERFORMANCE

• Always ensure you have the correct power supply for each piece of equipment. If you are playing in a non-club environment, like a warehouse, ensure that there will be a sufficient and reliable source of power for your live rig.
• Check all patches are correct. One misplaced patch cable can change the whole sound of your modular.
• Always carry spare MIDI and patching cables. Also, consider the length of cables you will require for your performance, as some live environments will force you to spread out your live setup.
• Monitoring the modular is incredibly useful in a live setting. If you have multiple patches, you can ensure that a specific patch sounds precise before bringing it in.
• Appropriate lighting is important for modular users, particularly if you are in the early stages of performing with one. Consider bringing a small torch or downloading a flashlight app so you can clearly see what you are doing in dark clubs and venues.