Background Modulars No.11 Serge Paperface Again

video upload by Memetune Studio

"Don’t have a real Serge Modular Paperface to hand? No worries! Just put this video on in the background (in full-screen mode), and have the next best thing 😁

Here is 10 minutes of self-playing modular synthesiser randomness. Why not put it on loop - then you can have it playing away in the background while you do other things

A note on the patch: I'm using the LW Gated Comparator and the 2 original Paperface Sequencers (from the mid-70s) to run things - as always with a big Serge patch its virtually impossible to keep track of all the connections - its a very complex system - but I use lots of delays here - the vintage Wilson, plus a brand new Prism Circuits Cascade Delay. There are the old Serge dual spring reverbs in here, and the VC stereo mixer to mix it all up and move it all around. This patch is more melodic, using a Serge format Voltage Quantizer to hold it all together. It's going through my Neve 88D along with some vintage FX units - an AMS RMX16, a Bel BD80S and a Lexicon Model 300"

Crossing the threshold: New Systems Instruments’ “discrete map”

video upload by Electrum Modular

"New Systems Instruments sent me their new module, Discrete Map. It’s a deep module, with lots of potential uses, so I’ll be dedicating the next few videos to it. This first, introductory video uses it as a generative sequencer, extracting an evolving melody from a Lorenz chaos trajectory."

"Novum! New Systems Instruments has created a unique and innovative approach to generating sequences with Discrete Map.

New Systems Instruments consistently surprises with innovative designs! Discrete Map fits right in, taking a simple concept and turning it on its head. At its core, it’s an 8-step sequencer that can output a traditional step-by-step sequence. The pitch values are set using the eight upper faders, but what makes it truly special are the eight lower faders, which determine which step is played at any given moment.

The sequencer’s X input accepts any signal, a clock, an LFO, or even another sequence. The lower faders set threshold values, and the switches below them define whether they react to a rising or falling edge. This means the sequence jumps to different steps based on the incoming signal, creating a highly controllable form of randomness! The results are striking! Complex rhythms and surprising melodies that become even more dynamic when paired with the expander for voltage-controlled step selection.

Discrete Map also includes an onboard oscillator. A switch toggles between a slow and fast frequency range. When slow, it functions as a standard step sequencer. Another switch changes from Position mode (explained above) to Length mode, where the lower faders control step duration. When switched to the fast mode tho, it becomes a graphic oscillator that tracks V/Oct.

To round out the package, Discrete Map includes additional utilities for better integration with other modules. The precision adder for example allows an external voltage to transpose the entire sequence.

The A/B/C Expander further enhances functionality, adding three assignable groups for the steps. Each group gains CV-controllable threshold values and dedicated gate outputs for active steps. And because that´s not enough there's also a sequential switch. Several discrete maps and A/B/C expanders can be linked together!

Overall, an incredibly well-thought-out and entirely fresh approach to sequence generation!

Features:

8-step sequencer for a single track
Generates sequences based on any input signal
8 lower faders to position steps in time
8 upper faders to set step values
One-shot mode
Oscillator mode with V/Oct tracking
Adjustable output voltage range (-5V to 5V / 0V to 5V / 0V to 2.5V)
Precision adder for transposing sequences
Gate output
Ramp output for internal clock signal"

And an overview from DivKid:

Bend & Twist Time with Voltage Addressed Sequencing // Discrete Map from New Systems Instruments
video upload by DivKid

"Here’s the new Discrete Map and expander from New Systems Instruments. Deeply routed in influence from the Buchla MARF & a Serge Modular style approach to sequencing, coupled with a heady mix of physics and electronics (as New Systems Instruments do so well) the Discrete Map allows you to use voltages to bend and manipulate a time map across 8 stages of voltages. From basic to more advanced sequencing, unique time and rhythm creation to some bonkers graphic VCO applications there’s a lot we get into in the video."

Testing patch, from DivKid - Part 2: VASTLY IMPROVED FAKE REVERB FROM RING MOD

video upload by LARIX ELEKTRO

Follow-up to this post.

"This time, I'm not testing the DivKid patch, but my own humble idea.
It's sure, you can improve my idea. I didn't have time to do a better video, because I have to launch a new module this week...

At first, I'll using my Random*Source / SERGE modules.
And then, with my Dual Undula Oscillator. Because the VCO can work like a VCF, and th frequency can go very low.

Hope you will enjoy it :)"

Serge Medusa vs. TKB

video upload by Serge Modular | Random*Source

"Another Medusa for eurorack exploration by Teo - this time using the TKB as programmer and glide source. #sergemodular"

Crossing Voices – Serge Modular Improvisation

video upload by Maknouchi

"Improvised modular synth performance using Serge Easel system, TKB touch keyboard sequencer, and the Crocodile module. Exploring generative patches, analog textures, ambient noise, and chaotic control voltages.

A short excerpt from a Serge Modular improvisation, where two independent voices are gently crossfaded to sculpt both rhythm and melody.
Through a minimal patch, a balance between structure and spontaneity is explored—organic textures emerge from subtle modulations and interplay.

Here is a list of the gear I used for this video :
Random*Source Serge
empress effects Zoia

Blog: https://maknouchi.com
SOUND CLOUD: / smiley701
twitter: / maknouchi1
instagram: / maknouchi_beansandelectronics"

Testing patch, from DivKid, from Rob Hordijks FAKE Reverb with Ring Modulation.

video upload by LARIX ELEKTRO

"‪@DivKid‬ 's releasing a very interesting video (as usual).
from an idea of Rob Hordijks.
I let you seeing all the explanations here:[below]

So, why not testing it by myself ?
At first, I'll using my Random*Source / SERGE modules.
And stupidly, I was forgetting that my DUAL UNDULA OSCILLATOR has all functions to test the idea ! So I'm testing the idea with it.
And after that, I'm digressing around the stereo possibilities of my module and the MS (mid/side) option.

Ok, I didn't have a lot of time (busy after SuperBooth...) so it's a bit "from scratch"... Hope you will enjoy it :)"

How to FAKE Reverb with Ring Modulation // Rob Hordijks ‘Poor Mans Delays’ [BETTER BLEEPS]

video upload by DivKid

"So here's a bit of story and the first BETTER BLEEPS video in a long time!

With Chris from Moog sharing Rob Hordijk's trick to emulate reverb wth Ring Modulation in the recent Superbooth video, that of course sparked questions. So strap in with a brew for a time travel trip back to 2017 where Rob Hordijk gave a tutorial with his "poor mans delay" technique and stay tuned for going through the technique and method with us in the video. Grab the free PDF and VCV Rack patch for further material on the technique. Links below.

This is applicable to many modules and bits of gear, to that point after the main demo with Manic (DivKid & Apollo View) I go through it with 4 more modules (Instruo VinCA, cLFO from AtoV, Ouija from Nekyia and A*B+C by Befaco)."

Layered Tensions: 10 Cables

video upload by Maknouchi

"Improvised modular synth performance using Serge Easel system, TKB touch keyboard sequencer, and the Crocodile module. Exploring generative patches, analog textures, ambient noise, and chaotic control voltages.

A 10-cable patch introducing instability to the envelope via pitch CV and comparator output. Layered through looping, the structure reveals Serge’s nuanced volatility—uncertainty and motion coexisting within minimal constraints.

Here is a list of the gear I used for this video :
Random*Source Serge
empress effects Zoia"

Serge Modular - New Frequency Shifter Sound Impressions

video upload by Serge Modular | Random*Source

"The New Frequency Shifter (FRS) is a completely new design by Serge, much improved over the original 1979 version. Actually it is a combination of two new Quadrature (sine) Oscillators plus two (!) Frequency Shifters, offering 5 different modes from separate use to true Stereo Processing.

0:00 Intro / FM bleeps
0:19 On Drums
1:11 On Guitar*
2:46 Sand Rabbi
3:26 Modular Madness - Pulse sequence 4:33 Another Beat
5:23 back with the Gibson (FRS sequenced)*

Serge Modular Synth Paperface 50

video upload by Akihiko Matsumoto



"Discover the raw power of Serge Modular with this exclusive sample pack. Featuring organic noise textures, complex rhythms, analog drones, and punchy one-shots, each sound embodies the unpredictable, evolving nature of modular synthesis. Currently in beta, this pack offers a limited selection of sounds at an early price, with free lifetime updates as new material is added."

SERGE INORI // Saigon 1975

video upload by Dexba

"50 years since the end of the war that showed the world how foolish wars are.

It's not a regional thing, it's not a sporadic thing: it's the core nature of war, that, finally, people were able to see towards the end of the Vietnam War.

When the plot gets so lost nobody even knows where they are going, who they are really fighting, what and why they are fighting, the blind brutality of the conflict becomes finally clear: the war for the war's sake.

This piece is an expressionist recording of the overstimulating nature of an armed conflict – there are helicopters, indistinctly passing by and falling, monkeys (who maybe were once humans?) screaming from the jungle, there is warfare, and it's relentless.

A quick note on the instrument: without my SERGE system, I would have never recorded this piece. It's hard to state if it came first the egg of wanting to record this genre of music or the chicken of my 4U modular, but the only unequivocal is that, to me, Serge means first and foremost an artistic legacy, and without even naming names, I always felt the pressure to make my time spent with the instrument worth a bit more than the quick enjoyment of some electronic strumming.

The freedom of the highest latitude of exploration possible with a SERGE instrument is what made it possible, having the confidence that my creativity, and my skills, were the only limiting factors in the equation, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to do this and share it with all of you."

California Highway 163: San Diego's beautiful and scenic freeway

video upload by CatSynth TV

"We take a trip along California Highway 163 (Cabrillo Freeway), a particularly beautiful freeway in San Diego. It beings as a historic parkway running through Balboa Park and under Cabrillo Bridge. After its interchange with Interstate 8, it opens up to a wide modern freeway until its northern terminus at a junction with Interstate 5. Along the way we also pass Interstate 805 and California Highway 52.

The southern parkway section of CA 163 was once part of US 395, which extended all the way to downtown San Diego.

The music reflects the two sections of the highway, with a noticeable change when we move from the historic parkway to the modern freeway.

Original music features the following instruments:
iOptigan
Cherry Audio KR-55C, Yellowjacket, Mercury 6, Elka X, Filtomika, Stardust 201
Arturia CMI V, CP 70, Pigments, MiniBrute
EastWest Fab Four, Stormdrum 2, Gypsy
Buchla Red Panel 158 module
Serge/Random Source Dual Universal Slope Generator
Metasonix R-54 and RK5 modules
Circuit Abbey ADSRjr
MOK Filtryg
_________
Store: https://shop.catsynth.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/catsynth
Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/catsynth"

Early Paperface Serge Modular Synthesizer Catalog Specsheet

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this eBay listing

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Puce Muse, centre de création de musique visuelle | SynthFest 2025

video upload by SynthFest France

Click CC on the bottom of the player for subtitles.

"Serge de Laubier, Composition, chercheur et musicien et nous présente Puce Muse, le centre de création de musique visuelle, et partage pour la première fois au SynthFest, un performance à partir d'un instrument très singulier de sa conception.

Ne manquez pas les nombreux concerts de Puce Muse!

https://www.pucemuse.com/
https://www.pucemuse.com/serge-de-lau..."

Googlish:

"Serge de Laubier, composer, researcher, and musician, presents Puce Muse, the visual music creation center, and shares, for the first time at SynthFest, a performance using a very unique instrument of his own design.

Don't miss Puce Muse's many concerts!

https://www.pucemuse.com/
https://www.pucemuse.com/serge-de-lau..."

PUCE MUSE : Méta-Instrument N°4

video upload by PUCE MUSE

"Developed by PUCE MUSE in collaboration with Catherine Hospitel, Dominique Brégeard and Jérémie Gaston-Raoul, the Meta-Instrument 4 is entirely made by 3D printer.

The result of 5 years of development, the Meta-Instrument 4 embeds 92 high precision sensors and 13 dedicated processors. In particular, ten on-board Meta-Touches measure finger pressure and playing speed with great sensitivity: 3000 times per second on 80 pressure zones. The MI4 is a new generation of digital instrument, fully modular and customizable to allow a new form of virtuosity.

//////////////////////////

Fruit de 5 ans de développements, le Méta-Instrument N°4 embarque 92 capteurs de grandes précisions et 13 processeurs dédiés. En particulier, dix Méta-Touch embarqués mesurent la pression des doigts et la vitesse de jeux avec une grande sensibilité : 3000 fois par seconde sur 80 zones de pression. Le MI4 est une nouvelle génération d’instrument numérique entièrement modulaire et personalisable pour permettre une forme de virtuosité inédite."

Random Source Serge 4U Modular Synth System

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this eBay listing

CLICK FOR MORE »

Serge Paperface 50 | Drone

video upload by Akihiko Matsumoto

"Serge Modular Synth (Sample Pack)



Discover the raw power of Serge Modular with this exclusive sample pack. Featuring organic noise textures, complex rhythms, analog drones, and punchy one-shots, each sound embodies the unpredictable, evolving nature of modular synthesis. Currently in beta, this pack offers a limited selection of sounds at an early price, with free lifetime updates as new material is added."

Serge Modular Synth Hybrid Wave DJ Set | Akihiko Matsumoto

video upload by Akihiko Matsumoto

Study Site https://akihikomatsumoto.com/study/
Plugins https://akihikomatsumoto.com/download/
Sample Pack https://akihikomatsumoto.bandcamp.com

California Highway 190: Around Owens Lake to Olancha

video upload by CatSynth TV

"We continue our ride around Owens Lake, heading southwest on California Highway 190. Owens lake is a semi-dry lake in the Owens Valley between the Sierra Nevada and Death Valley.

This segment of CA 190 ends at US 395 in the community of Olancha.

Original music by Amanda Chaudhary featuring:
Tracktion BioTek 2
Arturia Pigments
Cherry Audio GX-80
Vintage Minimoog Model D
Dual Universal Slope Generator from Random Source and Serge
ARC Artificial Neural Network module
Metsasonx R54 Supermodule VCO/VCF
Strymon Starlab
_________
Store: https://shop.catsynth.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/catsynth
Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/catsynth"

Bass Drone | Serge Paperface 50

video upload by Akihiko Matsumoto

Serge Modular Synth (Sample Pack)



"Discover the raw power of Serge Modular with this exclusive sample pack. Featuring organic noise textures, complex rhythms, analog drones, and punchy one-shots, each sound embodies the unpredictable, evolving nature of modular synthesis. Currently in beta, this pack offers a limited selection of sounds at an early price, with free lifetime updates as new material is added."

California Highway 136, a ride around the enigmatic Owens Lake

video upload by CatSynth TV

"We follow California Highway 136 around the northern and eastern sides of Owens Lake, a semi-dry lake in the Owens Valley between the Sierra Nevada and Death Valley.

The beginning section on US 395 features the E350 Morphing Terrarium from Synthesis Technology, in honor of Paul T Schneider who past away during the making of this video.

Original music by Amanda Chaudhary featuring:
E350 Morphing Terrarium from Synthesis Technology
Dual Universal Slope Generator from Random Source and Serge
ARC Artificial Neural Network module
Metsasonx R54 Supermodule VCO/VCF
Strymon Starlab
Vintage Minimoog Model D
Cherry Audio Quadra, Polymode and Filtomika
Arturia CZ V, Delay Brigade
SWAM Contrabasson
EastWest RA, Fantasy Percussion, Stormdrum 2, Spaces convolution reverb
_________
Store: https://shop.catsynth.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/catsynth
Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/catsynth"

Serge Paperface 50 | Abstract Dubstep

video upload by Akihiko Matsumoto



"Discover the raw power of Serge Modular with this exclusive sample pack. Featuring organic noise textures, complex rhythms, analog drones, and punchy one-shots, each sound embodies the unpredictable, evolving nature of modular synthesis. Currently in beta, this pack offers a limited selection of sounds at an early price, with free lifetime updates as new material is added."