Learning Modular Synthesis: Arturia Modular V – Introduction

Learning Modular Synthesis: Arturia Modular V – Introduction from Learning Modular on Vimeo.

"This is the course overview for 'Learning Modular Synthesis: Arturia Modular V' where I lay out the basic idea of the course, and what will be covered in what order.

One of the most exciting areas of music creation is modular synthesis, where you get to interconnect the fundamental building blocks of a synthesizer to create your own instrument. In this course, music industry veteran and synth designer Chris Meyer uses the Arturia Modular V software – a realistic emulation of the original Moog modular synths of the 1960s and 1970s – to teach you how to "patch" a modular synth to create your own sounds. Chris starts with the fundamentals of how harmonics and sound work, as well as how to connect the modules together. He then goes through the main modules individually, explaining the differences between oscillator waveshapes, filter types, and more, while demonstrating how to use them in a musical context. The third chapter teaches advanced techniques such as frequency and amplitude modulation, as well as using the effects and advanced filters in Arturia Modular V.

The course is available through LinkedIn Learning (http://bit.ly/lms_amv_lil) and Lynda.com (http://bit.ly/lms_amv). If you do not already have a subscription to one of these services, sign up for an account at http://lynda.com/trial/chrismeyer and sample this course and any of the others they offer, including well over 250 on audio and music (including my original Learning Modular Synthesis course for hardware modular systems: http://bit.ly/LearningModular). If you don't like what you see, cancel before 10 days and your credit card will not be charged."

Modbap Modular Osiris WavPak Volume 3 by Learning Modular’s Chris Meyer

Press release follows:

Modbap Modular announces availability of Osiris WavPak Volume 3, carefully crafted by Chris Meyer to integrate seamlessly with Eurorack module namesake

LOS ANGELES, CA, USA: Modbap Modular is proud to announce availability of Osiris WavPak Volume 3 — carefully crafted by Learning Modular’s Chris Meyer to integrate seamlessly with the black-owned electronic music instrument manufacturer’s own Osiris BI-FIDELITY WAVETABLE OSC (originally introduced to a captive audience at Knobcon Number Nine, Hyatt Regency Schaumburg, IL, USA, September 10-12, 2021), providing four banks of all-new custom 32 x 32 wavetables which have been meticulously curated and designed to expand anyone’s approach to wavetable synthesis using its Eurorack module namesake — as of November 2…

As the owner of Learning Modular, an online resource to help anyone master their modular synthesizer, Chris Meyer is perfectly positioned to help expand anyone’s approach to wavetable synthesis using Modbap Modular’s Osiris, operating powerfully in and of itself as a (frequency modulation- and phase modulation-including) seven-plus TIMBRE MODE 12HP BI-FIDELITYTM WAVETABLE OSC (oscillator) module, neatly-packed with an independent sub-oscillator, LOFI processing, extensive CV (control voltage) modulation capabilities, a PITCH quantiser, four banks of 32 x 32 wavetables, the ability to load user wavetables via Micro SD card (not included), and its own free open-source wavetable editor (OsirisEdit). After all, Chris Meyer is the talented individual responsible for creating the-then-trailblazing Vector Synthesis technology behind the 1986-vintage Prophet VS DIGITAL VECTOR SYNTHESIZER, supposedly intended to revive the flagging fortunes of US synth ‘giant’ Sequential for whom he worked in an engineering role. Subsequent stints at Digidesign, Music Maker Publications, and Tom Oberheim’s Marion Systems soon ensued, before becoming the Chief Engineer at the now-defunct Roland R&D US while serving also as Technical Chairman of the MIDI Manufacturer’s Association. A transition into the video and film industries followed thereafter as his storied career continued, coming full circle to ultimately end up where he originally started — playing with modular synthesizers.

Duly derived from Chris Meyer’s sizeable studio modular synthesizer — affectionately called The Monster, the four banks of all-new custom 32 x 32 wavetables included in Osiris WavPak Volume 3 are a result of undergoing a meticulous sampling process drawing upon the talents of one of the industry’s leading experts to offer Osiris owners a wide range of timbral possibilities catering to different sonic aesthetics: BANK A — otherwise known as the ‘East Coast’ bank — features wavetables that have been carefully crafted as a result of working with Livewire Electronics AFG’s Animated Pulses and Alien Saws waveforms, as well as Serge-filtered waveforms, using techniques such as audio rate waveform crossfading to offer a diverse palette of sounds, ranging from smooth and evolving textures to aggressive and cutting tones; BANK B — the ‘West Coast’ bank — incorporates techniques like Serge rectification, wave folding, and Serge resonant EQ, the resultinwavetables providing a more experimental and abstract sonic experience suited to those interested in pushing the boundaries of sound design and diving into harmonious tones and textures; BANK C — Formants — focuses on different vowel sounds with a sound design approach anchored around both digital and analogue formant filters for creating expressive vocal-like textures and tones that are ideal for adding a human touch to compositions or exploring more abstract and otherworldly sounds; and BANK D — Harmonics — utilises tube overdrive, filter banks inspired by both Buchla and Moog stylings, as well as featuring analogue and digital additive oscillators.

On the face of it, then, the results are all a testament to the expert craftsmanship involved in ensuring the highest-quality sound production possible. Put it this way: Osiris WavPak Volume 3’s four sound banks were sampled at 96kHz, perfectly aligning with the Osiris BI-FIDELITY WAVETABLE OSC module’s unique, high-quality 96kHz sample rate operation. Ultimately, users can enjoy pristine audio clarity, enabling exploration of full depth sonic landscapes.

Lending themselves a knowing nod in the direction of Chris Meyer’s trailblazing achievements, the X-axis in all the banks contain different waveforms, while the Y-axis introduces different harmonics for each X-wave; the harmonic series used in Osiris WavPak Volume 3 are: H1 (root up), H2 (one octave up), H3 (one octave, plus perfect fifth), H4 (two octaves up), H5 (two octaves, plus major third), H6 (two octaves, plus perfect fifth), and H8 (three octaves up). It is worth noting that in some cases — especially the filter banks, formant filters, and resonant EQ — the waveform also changes with ‘harmonic’ on the Y-axis, allowing for sculpting and refining patches with extraordinary detail thanks to this precise control over harmonic content. Modbap Modular encourages experimentation with different modulation sources patched to its Osiris BI-FIDELITY WAVETABLE OSC module’s WAVE Y to further enhance sonic explorations with the texture-rich Osiris WavPak Volume 3 — think velocity/accent from a sequencer or keyboard, a mod wheel, aftertouch, ribbon controller, or even a sample & hold triggered on each new note to create dynamic and evolving timbres that respond to playing style.


Osiris WavPak Volume 3 is available for free as a digital download exclusively from Modbap Modular’s online Shop here: https://www.modbap.com/products/osiris-wavpak-vol-3-by-chris-meyer

Watch Learning Modular’s Chris Meyer mentioning the-then-upcoming Osiris WavPak Volume 3 — while talking about Modbap Modular’s Osiris BI-FIDELITY WAVETABLE OSC module as a new way to wavetable — at Knobcon Number Eleven, Chicagoland, USA, September 8-10, 2023 here: https://youtu.be/tYkDT82wxx0

a NEW way to WAVETABLE! with Alias Zone & Osiris // Chris Meyer & ModBap at Knobcon 2023

video upload by DivKid

"Chris Meyer of Learning Modular & Alias Zone has A NEW WAY TO WAVETABLE!

Chris has been working on a new X and Y based wavetable systems that does two fascinating things, firstly it "samples" his whole large studio system while keeping that performable and responsive in the ModBap Modular Osiris and secondly he's using harmonics and interval sets to create morphing tunings within those sounds too.

The WavPak is out now through the ModBap site here // https://bit.ly/WavPak3-ChrisMeyer"

Pittsburgh Modular Double Helix (LMS EE) - Demo + Overview Videos by Learning Modular

Published on Sep 13, 2017 Learning Modular

Details for parts 2 - 4 further below.

1. Pittsburgh Modular Double Helix Oscillator 1/4: Demo + Overview (LMS Eurorack Expansion Project)

"This is the last of four movies on the Pittsburgh Modular Double Helix Oscillator, focusing on its “Contour” section that includes both a wavefolder (Timbre) and a low pass gate (Dynamics). The video breaks down like this:

0:00 introduction
0:17 Timbre (wavefolder) overview
1:49 wavefolder as VCA
2:46 LFO to wavefolder
3:56 enveloping wavefolder depth
4:25 FMing the wavefolder
6:10 layering 1
6:39 Dynamics (low pass gate) overview
8:38 Dynamics offset
9:31 Dynamics CV
9:51 Dynamics Response
10:07 LPG control interaction
11:04 externally enveloping the LPG
12:06 FM percussion revisited
13:01 Contour input mixer
13:53 layering 2

For more details about using the Double Helix (as well as other modules I’ve made videos for), I encourage you to join the Learning Modular Patreon Tribe: https://www.patreon.com/LearningModular. For more on the Learning Modular Synthesis Eurorack Expansion Project for those exploring what module to add to their system next, visit http://learningmodular.com/eurorack-e..."

2. Pittsburgh Modular Double Helix Oscillator 2/4: Waveshapes + Voltage Controlled Routers

"This is the second of four movies on the Pittsburgh Modular Double Helix Oscillator, focusing on its waveshapes (including its unusual Blade shape), and its Voltage Controlled Routers: a flexible modulation bus you need to master to truly get all of the potential out of this module. The video breaks down like this:

CLICK FOR MORE »

Learning Modular Synthesis: Moog Mother-32

Published on Apr 4, 2017 Learning Modular

Playlist:
Learning Modular Synthesis: Moog Mother-32 Introduction
Learning Modular Synthesis: An Overview of the Moog Mother-32
Learning Modular Synthesis: Sequencing Repeats & Glides with the Moog Mother-32
LMS: Moving a Moog Mother-32 to a Eurorack Case

"The full Learning Modular Synthesis course on the Mother-32 is on Lynda.com http://bit.ly/lmsm32) and LinkedIn Learning (http://bit.ly/lmsm32-lil). If you don’t already have a subscription to either one, you can use the link http://lynda.com/trial/chrismeyer to sign up for Lynda.com and they will not bill your credit card for 10 days while you try out the service and sample as many courses as you like – including my other Learning Modular Synthesis courses. If you decide to stay with Lynda.com, one month costs only $25, and they have hundreds of other audio & music courses as well."

Module 1050 Overviews by Learning Modular/Chris Meyer & the Alan R. Pearlman Foundation

Alan R. Pearlman Foundation

Playlist:

1. Module 1050 Mix Sequencer HB18 by Learning Modular/Chris Meyer
2. Module 1047 Multimode Filter HB18 by Learning Modular/Chris Meyer
3. Module 1027 Sequence Controller HB18 by Learning Modular/Chris Meyer
4. Matrix Switches HB18 by Learning Modular / Chris Meyer
5. Analog Computers HB18 by Learning Modular / Chris Meyer

Recorded for Fifty Years of ARP: The 2500 in 2020

https://learningmodular.com
https://courses.learningmodular.com

https://alanrpearlmanfoundation.org

Alias Zone: The Dream Catcher (by Chris Meyer of Learning Modular)

Learning Modular

"Created for the December 2020 edition of Resident Electronic Music

Composed & performed by Chris Meyer of Learning Modular (aka Alias Zone):
• Tardis and Monster modular synths
• Waldorf Iridium, Korg Z1 & Wavestation AD polysynths
• rain gourd, woven basket shaker, goat toenail rattle (processed through modular)
• voice by Navajo (Diné) elder Harry James from the Q Up Arts sampling collection Voices of Native America

Index of sounds and when they first appear:
00:02 rain gourd processed through Mutable Instruments Rings, plus modular reverb and echo)
00:14 woven basket shaker + goat toenail rattle processed though modular reverb and echo, sampled, looped, and played through a 1010music Blackbox.
00:30 Korg Z1, using its complex arpeggiator as well
00:59 twin bass voices: Synthesis Technology E352 VCO through Xaoc Devices Belgrad VCF, and Livewire AFG + SSF/WMD Spectrum through Rossum Evolution VCF, sequenced by a Five12 Vector
01:30 Navajo elder phrases, re-timed and played back from a 1010music Bitbox, processed with a Mutable Instruments Clouds
02:59 Waldorf Iridium
04:50 4ms Spherical Waveform Navigator through WMD Overseer stereo filter
05:59 Korg Wavestation AD layered with the Z1 (both played by the Z1’s arpeggiator)
08:50 another “slow motion solo” on the Iridium

Details of how the individual sounds were created are being covered on the Learning Modular Patreon channel: https://www.patreon.com/LearningModular"

Learning Modular Conversations with guest host Todd Barton

video upload by Learning Modular

"This is the replay of the September 2021 "ask me anything" Zoom session for Patreon subscribers of Learning Modular (https://www.patreon.com/LearningModular). In this second session, Todd Barton (https://toddbarton.com) was asking questions of Chris Meyer of Learning Modular, and moderating questions from the live attendees covering modular synthesis composition, performances, and systems. Subscribers to Todd's Patreon channel (https://www.patreon.com/) were also invited.

If you would like the opportunity to view these sessions live and ask your own questions, subscribe to Learning Modular on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/LearningModular). The August host was Trovarsi, and the October host was Kim Bjørn, with two more sessions planned to fill out 2021. Your response to these replays will determine if we continue them in 2022.

Here is an index to the subjects discussed in this session:

00:00 Introduction
01:33 What is the meaning of life? (Yes, Todd actually asked Chris that, and yes, Chris answered)
02:07 How does Chris not get overwhelmed when approaching The Monster to create a piece of music?
04:43 How does Chris know what he wants to compose?
06:28 Is there a narrative or structure to Chris’ work, or does he create free-form?
08:43 Thoughts from Chris and Todd on compositional “forms” for electronic music
15:47 When to ignore the 'rules'; when to lean on them
19:17 When to introduce a change in the music
23:50 Patching for evolution
28:03 Chris’ lighting during recent music videos
31:22 How much of a performance is written out versus improvised?
35:55 Editing improvisations down to tracks for an album
39:12 How do you organize it when more than one person is improvising together?
42:20 What is coming up for both of us?
45:00 Using synths as individual instruments versus cross-pollinating them
51:20 Todd on the new Buchla Music Easel
54:56 Patching 'from zero' versus pre-patching
56:26 Chris on color-coding patch cables
57:43 Creating the patch symbol language for Patch & Tweak
01:01:18 Serge Tcherepnin’s approach to creating synthesizers
01:04:55 Approaches to stereo and quad sound
01:15:00 Do we use MIDI?"

SSF Quantum Rainbow 2 Tutorial Videos by Learning Modular

Published on Apr 7, 2019 Learning Modular

"These movies are part of the extended version of the Learning Modular online Eurorack Expansion course: https://learningmodular.com/register/...

For even more information about modules like these (including optional access to my courses) as well as many other modular-related topics, please consider joining my Learning Modular Patreon channel: https://www.patreon.com/LearningModular"

Playlist:

1. SSF Quantum Rainbow 2 1/3: Colors of Noise (LMS EE)

The SSF Quantum Rainbow 2 is a popular Eurorack noise source. In this first movie, I demonstrate its different colors of noise, plus a patch tip for boosting its level:

00:00 overview
00:16 boosting output level
00:53 white noise
01:11 pink noise
01:31 red noise
01:49 grey noise
02:15 blue noise
02:45 purple noise
02:59 quanta noise

2. SSF Quantum Rainbow 2 2/3: Using in a Synth Voice (LMS EE)

In this second movie, I demonstrate some simple ideas for using noise in a normal synthesizer voice:

00:00 patch overview
00:20 noise replacing VCO
00:34 VCO + noise
01:46 noise modulating pulse width
02:51 noise modulating filter cutoff
04:08 enveloping the noise amount
06:12 voltage control of shape

3. SSF Quantum Rainbow 2 3/3: Using for Percussion (LMS EE)

Noise is a great source to use for percussion. In this movie I demonstrate patching different colors of noise thorough LPGs (low pass gates) with different responses:

00:00 overview
00:14 the patch
00:41 some kick drum examples
01:32 some snare & hi-hat examples
02:24 even more examples

Erica Synths Fusion VCO Demo & Tutorial Videos by Learning Modular

Published on Oct 2, 2019 Learning Modular

"The Erica Fusion VCO (version 1) combines a digital oscillator with analog-style waveforms and waveshaping along with a pair of tube-based suboctave dividers that features mix, waveform, and tone controls. These two sections can be used separately or together.

Part 1: In this movie, I give a no-talking demo of using them together, and then focus on the digital oscillator portion of this module.

00:00 demo
02:38 overview
03:24 sine/additive variations
04:58 triangle/sawtooth variations
06:12 pulse variations
07:04 wave CV
09:51 frequency modulation

Part 2: In this movie, I focus on the suboctave divider section, using it both with the internal digital VCO and with an external VCO.

00:00 overview
00:34 tube power requirements
01:11 suboctave 1 Subwave & Colour
02:46 suboctave 2 Subwave & Colour
03:26 combining the subwaves
03:53 subwave CV
05:48 conclusion

These movies are part of the extended version of the Learning Modular online Eurorack Expansion course: https://learningmodular.com/register/...

For even more information about modules like these (including optional access to my courses) as well as many other modular-related topics, please consider joining my Learning Modular Patreon channel: https://www.patreon.com/LearningModular"

Rossum Morpheus Digital VCF Videos by Learning Modular

Published on Sep 27, 2017 Learning Modular

"The Morpheus is not your typical modular synth filter. To show what it can do in a variety of contexts, I created three different demos: one in a normal arpeggiated, enveloped patch (which includes an overview of the module), one for treating drones (think “slow modulation” possibilities), and one processing stereo drum loops. A fourth movie shows how to edit the “cube” presets, as well as set up sequences of presets."

Playlist
Rossum Morpheus Digital Filter 1/4: Demo 1 (enveloped) + Overview (Eurorack Expansion)
Rossum Morpheus Digital Filter 2/4: Demo 2 – drones (LMS Eurorack Expansion Project)
Rossum Morpheus Digital Filter 3/4: Demo 3 – stereo drum loops (Eurorack Expansion)
Rossum Morpheus Digital Filter 4/4: Editing Sequences & Filter Cubes (Eurorack Expansion)

"For more details about using the Morpheus (as well as other modules I’ve made videos for), I encourage you to join the Learning Modular Patreon Tribe: https://www.patreon.com/LearningModular. For more on the Learning Modular Synthesis Eurorack Expansion Project for those exploring what module to add to their system next, visit http://learningmodular.com/eurorack-e..."

EMW Noise Station 2/3: Filters & Tone Controls (LMS EE)

Published on Apr 12, 2019 Learning Modular

"This second movie on the EMW Noise Station (excerpted from the Learning Modular Eurorack Expansion course) focuses on its filter and tone control section, which allows you to impose colors-of-noise-like filtering onto other sounds. It also contains two generalized equalizer or tone control sections – a rarity in Eurorack modules:

00:00 patch overview
00:10 yellow filter
00:46 silver filter
00:50 brown filter
01:13 hi-hat filter
01:36 Tone notch filter on noise
02:10 Baxandall low/high EQ on noise
02:47 Tone notch filter on a synth patch
03:51 Baxandall low/high EQ on a synth patch

The other two movies in this series – the first one on the Noise Station’s various colors of noise, and the third one on using the Noise Station with low pass gates for percussion sounds – are part of the extended version of the Learning Modular online Eurorack Expansion course: https://learningmodular.com/register/...

For even more information about modules like these (including optional access to my courses) as well as many other modular-related topics, please consider joining my Learning Modular Patreon channel: https://www.patreon.com/LearningModular"

Random*Source Serge DUSG Overview Videos by Learning Modular

Published on Jun 12, 2019 Learning Modular

"On its surface, the Serge Dual Universal Slope Generator (DUSG) is just a pair of slew generators, with separate rise and fall times. In reality, it can be configured and cross-patched to perform a number of different functions, including envelope generator (from AD to multi-stage), LFO, VCO, subharmonic divider, waveshaper (including filter-like responses), and even an envelope follower. Each of the movies in this playlist demonstrate one of those functions.

In this set of movies, I’ll be using the Serge-authorized Random*Source Eurorack version that includes many popular modifications and upgrades to the original Serge module; some of these techniques can also be used with other slope and function generator modules like Maths, Rampage, Falistri, and more.

These movies are part of the extended version of the Learning Modular online Eurorack Expansion course: https://learningmodular.com/register/...

For even more information about modules like these (including optional access to my courses) as well as many other modular-related topics, please consider joining my Learning Modular Patreon channel: https://www.patreon.com/LearningModular"

Playlist:

1. Random*Source Serge DUSG 1/7: Overview & Slew (LMS EE)

This first movie gives an overview of the DUSG, including default settings so you don’t get lost before you get started. Then I’ll demonstrate using it as a slew generator, including how to create different response curves by using its built in control voltage feedback.

00:00 introduction
00:55 initial settings
01:30 setting up the patch
03:05 slewing a sample & hold
04:09 changing the shape

2. Random*Source Serge DUSG 2/7: Envelope Generator (LMS EE)

The Serge Dual Universal Slope Generator (DUSG) and some of its derivatives can be patched and configured to perform as a pair of attack/decay or attack/release generators. The two sides can also be cross-patched to create more complex envelope shapes, such as ADASR:

00:00 initial setup
00:54 attack/decay envelope
01:56 voltage control of Rise and Fall times
03:25 envelope shapes
07:13 attack/sustain/release envelope
07:51 end of cycle output
08:31 patching serial complex envelopes
11:31 parallel complex envelopes

3. Random*Source Serge DUSG 3/7: LFOs (LMS EE)

The Serge Dual Universal Slope Generator (DUSG) and some of its derivatives can be configured to function as an LFO with variable wave shape. You can also cross-patch both sides to create more complex shapes:

00:00 initial setup
00:23 patching the LFO function
01:10 bipolar (BP) output on the R*S DUSG
02:14 Cycle switch on the R*S DUSG
02:34 wave shapes
03:13 patching complex LFO shapes

4. Random*Source Serge DUSG 4/7: VCOs (LMS EE)

The Serge Dual Universal Slope Generator (DUSG) and some of its derivatives can be configured to function as a VCO with pulse and variable wave shape outputs:

00:00 initial setup
00:42 pulse wave oscillator on the R*S DUSG
03:07 variable waveshape oscillator

5. Random*Source Serge DUSG 5/7: Subharmonic Generator (LMS EE)

The Serge Dual Universal Slope Generator (DUSG) and some of its derivatives can be patched to create subharmonics – including suboctaves – from another oscillator’s square wave. These can track the keyboard, with the harmonic division depending on the Rise and Fall times as well as the frequency of the guide oscillator:

00:00 initial setup
00:41 square wave subharmonic generator
01:28 variable waveshape subharmonics

6. Random*Source Serge DUSG 6/7: Waveshaper (LMS EE)

The Serge Dual Universal Slope Generator (DUSG) and some of its derivatives can be patched to act as a variable waveshaper for another oscillator. The new shape can track the keyboard, can vary depending on the note you are playing, or can be enveloped to create filter-like effects:

00:00 initial setup
00:21 tracking waveshaper
02:43 note-dependent waveshaping
03:25 enveloped waveshaper

7. Random*Source Serge DUSG 7/7: Envelope Follower (LMS EE)

The Serge Dual Universal Slope Generator (DUSG) and some of its derivatives can be patched to act as a rough envelope follower:

00:00 initial setup
00:45 basic envelope following
02:24 refining the resulting envelope

Alias Zone: Ash Tree Window (performed by Chris Meyer of Learning Modular)

Learning Modular

"Alias Zone: Ash Tree Window
Chris Meyer (https://learningmodular.com): modular synth; Waldorf Iridium
Conet Project (https://www.irdial.com/conet.htm): shortwave radio

Performed for the Colorado Modular Synth Society’s October Skies online space music festival: https://youtu.be/m6fY3efd2hQ

A detailed performance and patch breakdown has been created exclusively for the Learning Modular Patreon supporters: https://www.patreon.com/posts/track-b...

Additional thoughts on creating modular music are in my November newsletter: https://learningmodular.com/2020-11-n..."

SSF Ultra-Random Analog Tutorial Videos by Learning Modular

Published on Nov 30, 2017 Learning Modular

"For more details about using the URA (as well as other modules I’ve made videos for), I encourage you to join the Learning Modular Patreon Tribe: https://www.patreon.com/LearningModular. For more on the Learning Modular Synthesis Eurorack Expansion Project for those exploring what module to add to their system next, visit http://learningmodular.com/eurorack-e..."

Playlist:

1. SSF Ultra-Random Analog 1/5: Overview (LMS Eurorack Expansion)

The Ultra-Random Analog (URA) is a very different take on the classic Buchla 'Source of Uncertainty' module. It is designed to be the clocked centerpiece of a complex random system or patch. This first movie features a brief drone jam using the URA, and then demonstrates each of its major sections:

0:00 short drone demo
1:36 specs & background
2:03 overview of major sections
5:15 sample & hold A
7:02 sample & hold B
9:28 toggle A/B
10:09 R-Flux (smooth random)
11:23 R-Pulse (random gates)
12:00 opto-integrator
13:14 cross-patching

2. SSF Ultra-Random Analog 2/5: Sample & Holds (LMS EE)

This second of five movies on the URA module dives deep into its two sample & holds, as well as the Toggle A/B Out that alternates between them. It is a particularly good overview of those who may be new to the use of sample & holds in general. The video breaks down like this:

0:10 “sample and hold” explained
0:32 sample & hold (S&H) A to pitch
2:35 S&H A to filter cutoff
3:34 sampling an external input
5:51 S&H A to VCO mix
6:44 sample & hold B
7:30 S&H B slew
8:02 external clock
8:52 using the two S&Hs together
10:08 toggle A/B
11:34 voltage-controlled clock

3. SSF Ultra-Random Analog 3/5: Random Gates + Opto Integrator (LMS EE)

This third of five movies on the URA module dives into its random gates & pulses section, including the associated opto-integration which can be used to smooth out those gates or an external signal. The video breaks down like this:

0:00 overview (including internal clock vs. random gates)
0:59 gate density & pulse divisions
3:10 triggering envelopes
6:02 opto-integrator
7:17 integration slope
7:45 processing other voltage sources

4. SSF Ultra-Random Analog 4/5: Random Flux (LMS EE)

This fourth of five movies on the URA module explains how its smoothly fluctuating “R-Flux” section works, including external voltage control as well as using it to add randomness to LFOs and envelopes. The video breaks down like this:

0:00 introduction
0:15 default R-Flux output (including clock rate)
1:25 R-Flux Influence CV (speed of changes)
2:25 R-Flux Probability CV (voltage range)
3:15 adding randomness to LFO shapes
5:08 adding randomness to envelopes

5. SSF Ultra-Random Analog 5/5: Audio Rate Clock Tricks (LMS EE)

This final movie on the URA module demonstrates a few “stupid pet tricks” with its voltage controlled clock: using it as a second VCO; using it to generate pitched noise that tracks the keyboard; and using it as a sample rate decimator to destroy your sound (which again can follow the keyboard). The video breaks down like this:

0:06 using it as a 1v/octave VCO
2:11 patching in a precision adder for octave offsets
2:50 pitched noise source
3:48 sample rate decimator (SR reduction)

Mutable Instruments Grids Tutorials by Learning Modular

Mutable Instruments Grids 1/2: Basic Operation

Published on Nov 7, 2017 Learning Modular

"The MI Grids produced three channels of drum (or other) triggers with manual and voltage control over the underlying rhythm pattern and how many hits per measure are produced per drum channel. This video gives an overview of its basic operation; the next video dives into its advanced settings options. This video breaks down into the following sections:

00:00 quick overview
00:38 clocking
00:59 starting pattern
01:47 Fill (trigger density)
03:32 Map X & Y (pattern)
06:07 Chaos (random fills)
07:19 Accent

Learning Modular Patreon subscribers (https://www.patreon.com/LearningModular) also have access to an additional informational post about this module."

Mutable Instruments Grids 2/2: Advanced Settings

Published on Nov 7, 2017 Learning Modular

"This video describes each of its advanced settings, including control over clock in, triggers out, and even access to an alternative Euclidean sequencer mode. This video breaks down into the following sections:

00:17 enter Settings/Options mode
00:44 clock resolution
01:30 Tap Tempo versus Reset
02:03 Swing versus Chaos
02:26 Accent jack mappings
03:37 Triggers versus Gates
04:15 Euclidean sequencer mode"

Verbos Bark Filter Processor Videos by Learning Modular

Learning Modular
Published on Aug 2, 2017

Playlist:

1. Verbos Bark Filter 1/4: Basic Operation (LMS Eurorack Expansion Project)

"This first of four movies on the Verbos Electronics Bark Filter Processor plays with using it as an extreme graphic equalizer or multiband formant filter while giving an overview of its large number of inputs, outputs, and controls. The last minute and a half explains what the Bark Scale is, which is what sets this module apart from other “spectral processors” that that use an octave-based system for their frequency bands.

For more information on this module and others (including a breakdown of the overall patch used in this set of movies), join the Learning Modular Patreon Tribe: https://www.patreon.com/LearningModular

For more on the Learning Modular Synthesis Eurorack Expansion Project for those exploring what module to add to their system next, visit http://learningmodular.com/eurorack-e..."

2. Verbos Bark Filter 2/4: Voltage Control (LMS Eurorack Expansion Project)

"This second of four movies on the Verbos Electronics Bark Filter Processor shows how to use the Frequency Scan and Spectral Tilt sections to control which frequency bands are opened up. I first both the front panel knobs, and then voltage control these sections using a knob, slider, and XY touch pad from a controller keyboard. As several Verbos modules also feature Scan and Tilt sections, this also acts as a primer for controlling those modules."

3. Verbos Bark Filter 3/4: Vocoding (LMS Eurorack Expansion Project)

"This third of four movies on the Verbos Electronics Bark Filter Processor focuses on using it as a vocoder. One input can be routed to 6 of its 12 bands, generating voltages that follow the strength of the first input signal in each of those bands. A second input can then be routed to the other six bands, controlled by the voltages generated by the first set of bands and therefore imposing the harmonic signature of the first sound onto the second. I demonstrate using this trick to have percussion loops (its strength), voice, and sound effects or ambiences filter your synth’s sound."

4. Verbos Bark Filter 4/4: Envelope Followers (LMS Eurorack Expansion Project)

"This fourth of four movies on the Verbos Electronics Bark Filter Processor focuses on using the independent envelope followers attached to each of its 12 bands to trigger other sounds (in this case, a Noise Engineering Basimilus Iteritas and an Erica Synths Pico Drums). I talk a bit about choosing different frequency bands to isolate different sounds, and demonstrate using a trigger delay (from a Roland 572) to clean up spurious triggers."

Frap Tools SAPÈL: Demo + Tutorials From Learning Modular

Learning Modular
Published on Aug 30, 2017

"For more details about using the SAPÈL (as well as other modules I’ve made videos for), I encourage you to join the Learning Modular Patreon Tribe: https://www.patreon.com/LearningModular. For more on the Learning Modular Synthesis Eurorack Expansion Project for those exploring what module to add to their system next, visit http://learningmodular.com/eurorack-e..."

Playlist:
Frap Tools SAPÈL 1/4: Demo + Overview (LMS Eurorack Expansion Project)
Frap Tools SAPÈL 2/4: Quantized Random Voltages (LMS Eurorack Expansion Project)
Frap Tools SAPÈL 3/4: Fluctuating Voltages + Probability Distribution (LMS Eurorack Expansion)
Frap Tools SAPÈL 4/4: Gates & Clocks (LMS Eurorack Expansion Project)

Learning Modular: SSF Mixmode + Expander (LMS EE)

Published on Jul 19, 2017 Learning Modular

"For more information on this module and others, join the Learning Modular Patreon Tribe: https://www.patreon.com/LearningModular

For more on the Learning Modular Synthesis Eurorack Expansion Project for those exploring what module to add to their system next, visit http://learningmodular.com/eurorack-e..."

Playlist:

1. SSF Mixmode 1/4: Overview (LMS Eurorack Expansion Project)

This first of four movies on the Steady State Fate Mixmode 4:1 mixer gives an overview of its connections and controls, and then focuses on the usefulness of the invert switch on each input to create different timbres when mixing waveforms from the same oscillator (in this case, the sawtooth and square from a Moog Mother-32).

2. SSF Mixmode 2/4: Saturation (LMS Eurorack Expansion Project)

This second of four movies on the Steady State Fate Mixmode focuses on the subtle behavior of its Saturation mode, which adds an angled slope to the tops of waveforms such as a sawtooth or triangle (compared to clipping, which would just cut the top and bottom of the waveform off completely). I then compare this to the effect and sound of the Moog Mother-32’s own built-in saturation when you drive it with an external audio signal stronger than +/-5 volts.

3. SSF Mixmode 3/4: Expander (LMS Eurorack Expansion Project)

This third of four movies on the Steady State Fate Mixmode takes a look at its optional Expander module, which gives much more control over its saturation behavior (plus adds an additional 1/4” output). Knobs on the Expander’s front panel allow you to independently set the positive and negative saturation breakpoint from 4 to 10 volts, while control voltage inputs allow you to set it to any voltage. In addition to providing more varied effects compared to the subtle nature of the Mixmode’s default saturation, it allows for saturation and the resulting timbre shift to become a performable parameter.

4. SSF Mixmode 4/4: Percussion Overdrive (LMS Eurorack Expansion Project)

This fourth of four movies on the Steady State Fate Mixmode focuses on using its saturation capabilities with both synthesizes and sampled percussive sounds, including performing asymmetrical saturation and rhythmically changing the amount of saturation on different beats.

Erogenous Tones RADAR Overview Videos by Learning Modular

Published on Jan 21, 2019 Learning Modular

"The Erogenous Tones RADAR is an octal (8-channel) envelope generator with AD, AR, and looping options. It offers a large amount of control over the shape of the envelope, as well as options to combine envelopes together, including quad and octal 'LFO' modes.

These movies are part of the extended version of the Learning Modular online Eurorack Expansion course: https://learningmodular.com/register/...

For even more information on the RADAR plus more, become a member of the Learning Modular Patreon tribe: https://www.patreon.com/LearningModular"


Playlist:

1. Erogenous Tones RADAR 1/4: Overview (LMS EE)

This first movie provides an overview of what RADAR can do, in the context of taking a one-envelope voice and making it sound more interesting by using more envelopes:

00:00 overview
00:26 baseline patch: one EG
01:31 patching an external VCA
01:49 envelope 1: AR for VCA
02:54 envelope 2: AD for wavefolder
03:44 setting envelop level with BLiP expander
04:38 envelopes 3 & 4: two envelopes combined for VCF
07:44 envelope 5: FM depth
09:39 converting envelope 5 to an LFO
10:44 summary

2.

In this movie, I focus on the options available to tweak how each channel responds, focusing on the envelope shape controls:

00:00 overview
00:34 Repeating, AR, and AD modes
01:27 Attack and Decay rates
01:42 status LED colors
02:27 envelope Shape controls
03:44 setting envelop level with BLiP expander
05:34 voltage control of mode
06:12 voltage control of shape
06:48 Analog versus Digital retriggering
08:01 voltage control of rate (BLiP required)
08:24 wrap-up

3. Erogenous Tones RADAR 3/4: Quadrature & Octature modes (LMS EE)

The Erogenous Tones RADAR is an octal (8-channel) envelope generator with AD, AR, and looping options. It features quadrature and octature modes where sets of four or eight envelope channels are sequenced to create overlapping patterns:

00:00 overview
01:12 System Mode options (single quad, dual quad, octature)
01:46 quadrature mode explained
03:12 Speed control
04:28 Gravity control
05:24 Shape Delta control
07:09 dual quadrature and octature modes

4. Erogenous Tones RADAR 4/4: BLiP Expander (LMS EE)

The Erogenous Tones RADAR is an octal (8-channel) envelope generator with AD, AR, and looping options. Its BLiP Radar Expander Module adds a number of capabilities, including presets, digital attenuators, inverting and “rolling” (folding) the envelopes, chaining them together, delay, and more. This movie covers the features I personally like:

00:00 overview
00:23 selecting and editing functions
00:52 D-Trig (don’t trigger selected channels)
01:55 Invert
02:33 E-Seq (envelope sequencing)
05:16 Delay
06:40 S-AD Swap (voltage control over envelope times)
09:17 Level
10:19 Roll (envelope voltage offset and wraparound)
11:41 Reset
11:52 Presets
12:36 and there’s more...

LMS: Moving a Moog Mother-32 to a Eurorack Case

Published on Apr 11, 2017 Learning Modular

All parts here.

"Are you ready to make your Mother-32 part of a larger Eurorack-format modular system? This movie covers removing the Mother-32 from its own case and moving it into a Eurorack case, including discussion of power requirements and other important issues.

The full Learning Modular Synthesis course on the Mother-32 is on Lynda.com (http://bit.ly/lmsm32) and LinkedIn Learning (http://bit.ly/lmsm32-lil). If you don’t already have a subscription to either one, you can use the link http://lynda.com/trial/chrismeyer to sign up for Lynda.com and they will not bill your credit card for 30 days while you try out the service and sample as many courses as you like – including my other Learning Modular Synthesis courses. If you decide to stay with Lynda.com, one month costs only $25, and they have hundreds of other audio & music courses as well."