"A true powerhouse module — rare, complex, and undeniably unique. The Zeroscillator from Cynthia is a thru-zero analog oscillator with advanced wavefolding and phase modulation capabilities. If you’re looking for a standard VCO, this isn’t it. If you want to explore FM synthesis and sonic territory most modules only dream of, this is exactly it.
This particular unit is in very good condition, with minor signs of use (mostly cosmetic — see photos). Functionally, it works exactly as it should.
Important note on depth:
This is a large module, clocking in at 36HP wide and approximately 90mm (3.5”) deep. It is not skiff-friendly, so make sure your case has the clearance."
It has come to my attention that Paul Schreiber has passed away.
Pictured: Paul Schreiber at the 2006 NAMM show. Top from this previous post (pic by fr1zz), and bottom from this post (pic by Synthtopia) - this is the first image of Paul on the site. There is one comment in that post: "He's a good guy." Indeed.
Readers of the site should be familiar with his work. He was the man behind MOTM and Synthesis Technology.
To say Paul was one of the greats to influence the synth community would be an understatement. He was pivital to the rebirth of modular synthesizers. He started when modular as we know it today was in its infancy, as one of a very small group of large format DIY modular manufacturers along with Blacet, Modcan, Cynthia, Wiard, Oakley, STG, Catgirl/CGS, Tellun/Lower West Side StudioYuSynth, Jurgen Haible, and of course DIY staples like Thomas Henry/ MFOS, Ray Wilson and PAiA (see this post for some modular formats back in 2007). I focused mainly on those offering DIY. There were other manufacturers including Synthesizers.com, Club of the Knobs, MOS-LAB, Moon Modular, MacBeth, CMS, and more. Feel free to mention others in the comments. This post is about Paul, but I think it's important to reflect on some of the large format modular manufactures he was amongst at the time.
Paul created the MOTM format of 5U modules in 1998. MOTM stood for Module of the Month offering monthly DIY kits. From Wikipedia: "MOTM was created by Paul Schreiber in 1998. The system was created in part due to the renewed interest in large-format analog modular systems that occurred in the late 1990s. Between 1998 and 2021, over 8000 modules were sold. The company, Synthesis Technology, also offered a limited number of modules in Eurorack[2] and Frac[3] format."
He was also helped design the Moog/Realistic MG-1. From Wikipedia: "In 1980, Moog Music was seeking to contract manufacture a mass-marketable synthesizer which could be sold via a large retailer. Moog representatives secured an appointment at the Radio Shack corporate offices for a 5-minute demonstration. Radio Shack approved the concept, and Paul Schreiber (then employed by Tandy Systems Development) worked together with Moog on the synthesizer's design to achieve Radio Shack's price requirements.[2][3]"
He later joined the eurorack scene with Synthesis Technology branded modules. FYI, his site for MOTM was always http://www.synthtech.com/, short for Synthesis Technology. The first post to mention Paul and MOTM was posted just under twenty years ago here on MATRIXSYNTH back on August 26, 2005. If you click through you will see it was a post announcing the MOTM/synthtech.com site was going down for the weekend. He announced he was retiring from the synthesizer business in August of 2023.
It's worth repeating, Paul Schreiber was one of the key figures that brought modular back to the masses. He was both respected and loved by the synth community. It's impossible to overstate his influence. He will be missed.
The following are the first the last video interviews with Paul to be featured on the site:
The SynthSummitShow Episode 2: Paul Schreiber (Synthesis Technology) and A.Dapt (music producer) ...
SysEx Dumpster - Episode 44 - a conversation with Paul Schreiber
video upload by Sysex Dumpster on Jul 30, 2023. Details previously posted here.
The first videos to feature Paul presenting a module was back on January 3, 2010, and the first interview on SoundCloud in 2013, and he was of course featured in the modular documentary film I Dream of Wires.
"The Zeroscillator is a full-featured electronic-music-quality analog VCO capable of linear frequency modulation through zero hertz and into negative frequencies. This makes it capable of the FM Synthesis stuff, wild and crazy sounds simply not available from traditional VCOs, and timbres not available from digital FM synthesizers. Of course, Zeroscillators also make insane LFOs!
This was the first available Through Zero Oscillator, Vince Clark says, it's the best Modular Oscillator (check Youtube). The best you can get for Tone in your Modular Synthesizer.
The Module is very big, you need to use a deep case like the Doepfer Cases."
Side Note: I was on the wait list for a Zeroscillator like everyone else in the day. When mine was available I asked Cynthia to give it to the next person on the list and save me for last. I never did end up getting one.
"Analogue monster from Cynthia. The original “through zero” VCO for Eurorack. Full size components (unlike the mk2) for meatier sound. Be sure your rack is deep enough to take this (requires >110-120 mm depth behind face plate). Ships with power cable."
Playlist:
Moog Sound Studio: Mother-32 & DFAM & Subharmonicon
Moog Sound Studio | Patch Demonstration | Standing on Shoulders [patch sheet]
Moog Sound Studio | Patch Demonstration | Mind Police [patch sheet]
Moog Sound Studio | Patch Demonstration | Ese Sabor [patch sheet]
"Begin a new journey in the world of modular synthesis with Moog Sound Studio: Mother-32 & DFAM & Subharmonicon.
Moog Sound Studio includes all the tools and creative inspiration you need to embark on an immersive sonic adventure. Designed for beginner and seasoned synthesists alike, Moog Sound Studio introduces a uniquely comprehensive approach to exploring modular synthesis. Along with the powerful trio of analog synthesizers (Mother-32, DFAM, and Subharmonicon), each user receives a custom dust cover, dedicated audio mixer and power distribution hub, rack kit, audio cables, patch cables, cable organizer, synth exploration card game, creative learning tools, artwork, and more.
Watch the immersive Moog Sound Studio experience and environment come to life in this animation by Rapapawn, an experimental animation studio run by artists Óscar Raña and Cynthia Alfonso. This piece incorporates artwork by illustrator Kate Dehler and is set to music composed by synthesist Lisa Bella Donna using Mother-32, DFAM, and Subharmonicon.
Expand your knowledge of modular synthesis, hone your sound design skills, and allow yourself to get lost in the joy of discovering new musical experiences!"
A synth studio and store tour of Switched-On in Austin, Texas -- including the Switched On synthesizer showroom, walk-through of the Switched On synth store and brief highlight of the synthesizer repair area.
During a trip to Austin in early 2020 I had a chance to revisit the Switched On synth shop I first toured in 2018 [video bellow]. Switched On have since moved from their original location to a new spot and are under new ownership, so it was a great opportunity to see the new synth store.
This synth studio and store walkthrough showcases Switched On's extensive record collection, tape machines, various synthesizers, modular gear, classic vintage synths, rack units and more. To learn more about Switched On, visit https://www.switchedonaustin.com
Cynthia Photon interface * 2
Cynthia anything module
Cynthia Dark Star chaos
Cynthia psycho analog shift register
Cynthia programmer
Cynthia dual adsr * 2
Cynthia twin wasp filter
Cynthia filthy filter
Cynthia 6 input mixer
Cynthia gate sequencer
Cynthia large power supply
6 Cynthia six pack module holders
Modcan a follower 45a
Modcan triple vco 70a
Modcan dual video 62 a
Modcan noise / S&H / ring 07 a
Modcan CV recorder 57 a
Modcan low-pass Filter 02 a
Modcan for pole low-pass 14a
Modcan 4075 filter 36a
Modcan cem low-pass 29a
Modcan interface 25A
Modcan for VCA 31a
Modcan dual LFO 05 a
Sputnik waveform generator
AC gristleizer DLX
AC Russian module filter
"This set of recordings was conceived as a spontaneous improvisation inspired by the sound of Moog Modular systems in all their infinite possibilities. The idea is to use these wonderful vintage instruments in an open way to make immediate and compelling music. Modern technology offers unlimited possibilities, but it is precisely the apparent limitations of these "electronic dinosaurs" that unfold endless tonal resources and effects to produce boundless and novel solutions. I want to thank the great drummer Davide Pettirossi for the fantastic groove in the songs Slow Cat and B. Groove.
Questo insieme di registrazioni è stato concepito come una spontanea improvvisazione ispirata dal suono del Moog Modular e di tutte le sue infinite possibilità. L'idea è proprio quella di utilizzare questi meravigliosi strumenti vintage in modo aperto per fare musica immediata ed urgente. La tecnologia attuale offre illimitate possibilità, ma proprio nell'apparente limite di questi "dinosauri elettronici" si svelano continue risorse timbriche ed effettistiche, che possono essere usate all'infinito trovando sempre nuove soluzioni. Voglio ringraziare il grande batterista Davide Pettirossi per il fantastico groove nei brani Slow Cat e B. Groove.
Instruments:
Moog 12 Modular, Moog 35 Custom Unit, Roland System 700 Lab, Modular Custom Unit with Cynthia Zeroscillator - Moog 921 Oscillators - Bode Frequency Shifter (by Mike Bucki) - MOTM Filters, R. A. Moog Minimoog N° 1110 from Trumansburg Factory, Arturia Drumbrute drum machine. Master Keyboard Korg Krome with Kenton Pro 2000 Midi to CV Converter.
Special Guest:
Davide Pettirossi - drums on track 3 and track 8
Special thanks:
Max Costa - Ryanrecording (audio)
Tom Konno - Aritak Productions (video)"
Playlist:
01. MODULAR DREAM - Riccardo Fassi Modular Moog Analog Sessions
02. DOCTOR MOOG - Riccardo Fassi Modular Moog Analog Sessions (R. A. Moog MINIMOOG)
03. SLOW CAT - Riccardo Fassi Modular Moog Analog Sessions
04. LIKE THE WIND - Riccardo Fassi Modular Moog Analog Sessions (R. A. Moog MINIMOOG)
05. MODULAR SOLO - Riccardo Fassi Modular Moog Analog Session
06. FOR HAROLD BODE - Riccardo Fassi Modular Moog Analog Sessions (R. A. Moog MINIMOOG)
07. MINIMOOG'S CADENZA - Riccardo Fassi Modular Moog Analog Sessions (R. A. Moog MINIMOOG)
08. B. GROOVE - Riccardo Fassi Modular Moog Analog Sessions
09. BASS MOOG PIECE - Riccardo Fassi Modular Moog Analog Sessions (R. A. Moog MINIMOOG)
10. MODULAR LANDSCAPE - Riccardo Fassi Modular Moog Analog Session
11. ANALOG REFLECTIONS - Riccardo Fassi Modular Moog Analog Sessions (R. A. Moog MINIMOOG)
12. MODULAR IN THE DARK - Riccardo Fassi Modular Moog Analog Sessions
Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
Cynthia Sequeira Voltage Controlled Tabla via this auction
"As far as I know just 10 examples of this interesting exotic were ever made. The technical effort spent in building this module was huge (as seen on the pics).
This module is only available in Modcan A Format - not as an Eurorack module."
"Messing on the Modcan. In particular, I'm exploring the very interesting Cynthia Twin Wasp Filter. This is based on the EDP Wasp multi-mode filter, but it has two of them, controlled by one set of inputs and one output
Also in this patch is a simple drum machine setup using the sequencer trigger outputs
Theres also a tiny bit of reverb from the astonishing Roland R880 mainframe reverberation system
It has come to my attention from Joshua Shroyer that John Blacet passed away on June 22 after a battle with cancer. There is a thread on his passing at Muff's as well. The news comes as a bit of a shock. The last email I received from the Blacet newsletter was dated June 19, with only "Sorry, closed for now.....". I thought this was in reference to the latest sale. The email I had prior to this, dated April 18, was for a Rak-3 sale. There was no hint of his cancer or condition. John was extremely private. He reached out to me back in October of 2017 for a banner on the site. He continued the banner through December of 2018 and then just kind of disappeared. His communication was always brief and non personal. I respected that and I respected his privacy.
I'm assuming anyone that comes to this site is familiar with Blacet and his Frac rack format modules. The Blacet.com domain name was registered back on June 6, of 1999. He was creating modular synths before the modular scene became popular, before eurorack took off. Back then Frac was king for many. Blacet along with Modcan and Cynthia were it. Eurorack may have taken over, especially now that there is a market to support it, but back then, pioneers like John Blacet provided a small oasis for the world of modular, after years, if not decades, of being forgotten for mainstream synths. John helped keep the modular world alive, when by all circumstances it should have been lost. We have him and the handful of botique manufacturers to thank for what we have now. He will always be appreciated on this site. Not only for his creations, but also for his support. His banner will remain in the banner archives, and his label will live on.
The following is from the front page of his website:
"Be inspired by the sounds, colors and shapes of nature. Find new sounds with some of our electronic music kits. Featuring everything you need to easily achieve kit building success, our kits are complete with beautiful front panels, PCBs and all the parts needed, right down to the power cable. Dedicated to Frac Rak. +/- 15 volt power and power supply protection on each module.
Our complete documentation is second to none and our module quality and feature set is legendary. Decades of experience and craftsmanship means that you can count on Blacet. Complete kits or factory assembled."
---
Apparently John was also into planes. The following is from a thread on taptalk mentioning his passing on June 22:
"John Blacet passed away June 22 at home in Lakeview after battling cancer for a year.
John was an early Sonoma Wings member who flew with us locally, in Nevada, Idaho, and the Owens Valley.
He made the first Sonoma Wings web sites.
His Atos B was for sale on www.cloudbasecafe.com and his family hopes the Atos and trike will find a good home.
"Modcan A-Series consisting of original Modcan and Cynthia modules. These are incredibly rare and extremely well-built systems that almost never come on the market. I am putting the whole system up for sale including the cabinet and power supply and don't want to split it up at this stage. The modules all compliment each other and comprise a fully functional synthesizer system. The modules are as follows:
The system was recently serviced by a vintage synth expert and everything is working as it should. This modular sounds amazing and is extremely flexible - it can go places you won't believe! It covers many types of synthesis from West-Coast Buchla-esque madness to Moog and ARP style fatness or even pristine FM synthesis using the fabulous Zeroscillators. There is the extremely rare Frequency Shifter module (one of the best ever designed), voltage controllable envelopes, plenty of modulation sources (LFOs), 5 filters, and some exotic modules like the Burst Generator and Sub-Mux for good measure! There is a spare space so that if and when you find some more A-Series modules you have room to expand (the power supply can be relocated to the back of the cabinet freeing up 2 more spaces if necessary)"
"My first quick patch with the Frap Tools 'Fumana', a 16 band 48dB resonant bandpass filter. (16 independent filters... mmmm)
I'm just scanning the individual harmonic bands using the Klee Sequencer, and the Fumana is being fed the saw out from the AFG, which is being sequenced by the Turing Machine to feed some randomness to the Fumana's harmonics.
The ouputs from Fumana are going through a Modcan 'Dual Delay' and a ZVEX 'Instant Lo-Fi Junky'.
The chordy pad type sound is 3 Doepfer 'A-110' oscillators being fed voltages from the Toppobrillo 'Quantimator's' 3 outputs, a bit of movement courtesy of a Cynthia 'Saw Animator and an external Oakley Sound Sytems 'Arp Omni Ensemble' then mixed, filtered through 2 Doepfer A-106-6's and passed through the ZDSP with the 'Shimmer' card installed.
The Erica Synths 'Drum Sequencer' is controling most events, including simple drum patterns into the Endorphin.es 'BLCK_NOIR' which has it's on-board sample and hold controlling the filter.
All in all, a simple patch, but I quite like it, and the Fumana is a killer module that's going to get a lot of use."
Barton Zeroscillator
CGS/Ken Stone Gate Sequencer
CGS/Ken Stone Super Psycho LFO
Buchla Quad Low Pass Gate
CGS/Ken Stone Burst Generator
Blacet Dark Star Chaos
