The Best Synthesizer Patch Tips from Superbooth 2024 // ELEVATE YOUR SOUND DESIGN

video upload by DivKid

"Elevate your sound design and improve your synthesizer patching with these 24 patch tips from Superbooth 2024. Grab the free (or pay what you want to support) PDF document of tips too. You can try these ideas on anything you already have, they're non gear specific and apply to hardware, software, analogue, digital, modular etc.

While at Superbooth 2024 in Berlin I asked people for their best patch tips and these are the tips they gave me. Timing index below to skip around, give them a go and let us know how you get on in the comments.

THANK YOU TO THIS VIDEOS SPONSORS //
a great bunch of guys, a lovely bunch of fellows, buy your gear from them! :)
Signal Sounds // https://signalsounds.com
Thonk // https://thonk.co.uk

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE IN THE VIDEO //
@tombola2004 @atovproject @StarskyCarr U.D.O @ModbapModular @TomChurchill @WMDevices @mylarmelodies @ExpertSleepersLtd @danwahlbeck2621 @jamielidell @instruo @Stazma @Five12 Anti Kulture @RedMeansRecording @SCHLAPPIENGINEERING @FrapTools @Hainbach Konstantine @TheUnperson @westonprecisionaudio @Chevytravelleruk @noiselabsweden9102

SUPPORT //
If you'd like to support work like this and the wider range of what I do, considering heading over to Patreon at https://bit.ly/DK-patreon and supporting for as little as $1 a month to gain access to the DivKid Discord community, plus lots of exclusives such as PDF patchbooks, videos and more. https://bit.ly/DK-patreon"

WMD Digital VCA MKIII - Dual Zero-Crossing VCA and Polarizer - Announcement

video upload by WMDevices

"Announcing the MKIII version of the WMD Digital VCA eurorack module. This new and improved dual VCA and Polarizer (bipolar VCA) has a zero-crossing detector and noise source. At only 8HP, this module can do many cool things for any modular synth in a small space."

WMD Digital VCA MKIII - In Depth Demo

video upload by WMDevices

"WMD is back and finally in production with the new Digital VCA MKIII eurorack module. This modern take on a classic WMD design combines a Zero Crossing Detector (ZCD), a Voltage Controlled Attenuator (VCA), and a couple noise sources to make a super versatile tool at only 8HP. Watch as Alex Anderson explains many of the features and use cases.

00:00 Overview
00:54 White Noise Explanation
02:16 VCA overview
04:55 Remove clicks and pops the ZCD
07:59 Trigger Mode
14:06 Amplitude modulation and the Bipolar functions
18:51 Normaling of 'B' inputs with Dual VCA patch example
20:56 Mixing capabilities
23:00 ZCD Outputs"

via WMD

"I've done several designs of this circuit over the years, the first one had no knobs, the second was too small, the MKIII is finally how this circuit should be packaged. This module does some really cool stuff and is super useful in any system.

The Digital VCA lets signal through like a normal VCA, but the CV and attenuation level is controlled digitally. This lets us do things like wait until there is a zero crossing to change the amplitude, resulting in clickless amplitude changes.

The Trigger mode causes the VCA to only update when a trigger is received. The addition of a noise circuit for each side let us do a very quick and easy sample and hold that never droops. With no input, 5V is normaled to the attenuator, so you get a 0-5V sample and hold. In Bipolar mode, you can get -5 to +5V.

Both sides have bipolar VCA mode (polarizer), which lets them invert the signal when negative CV comes in. Also known as ring modulation. With the zero crossing detector, this can produce some super wild wave shapes.

Limited run of 410 units for Eurorack Modular Synthesizer systems. I won't be making more or doing another version in the future."

WMD Metron - Firmware Update 1.5 - Quick Reference Guide

video upload by WMDevices

"A video with no fluff showing how to access the new features in Metron Firmware 1.5."

WMD Metron - Firmware update 1.5 - In depth overview


"The long awaited firmware update for the WMD Metron is finally here including many user-requested features including voltage toggling, the ability to copy a gate pattern to a voltera enable pattern, random voltage generation, smooth mode, and per-step slide!

Download Firmware 1.5 here: https://wmdevices.com/products/metron"

WMD Legion - Eurorack Analog Oscillator - In Depth Demo

video upload by WMDevices

"Legion is a new breed of analog oscillator with tons of individual waveform outputs, a host of useful CV inputs, and a few never-been-done-before analog tricks.

In this video, Alex goes through every feature and function, explaining their concepts along the way.

Legion is being produced in a limited quantity of 600."

WMD Legion Eurorack Oscillator Module - Sound Examples


"In this video, we explore some of the sounds Legion is capable. In particular, there are lots of examples of thru-zero FM with different waveforms, showcasing the different timbres available. No distortion or effects of any kind are added. All sounds are 100% Legion."

New WMD Orion Eurorack Phaser Module - Sound Examples, NO TALKING

video upload by WMDevices

"WMD Orion is an analog Phaser effect module for eurorack modular synthesizers in 4HP. It can be used in mono or as a mono to stereo effect, creating cosmic swirls of spaced out texture. An instant bypass switch allows for hands-on engaging of the sound.

The number of stages can be set by the user and the resonance, depth, rate, and frequency-center controls make for quick dialing in of the perfect effect.

In this video, we explore the sounds the Orion is capable of by running different audio sources through it including white noise, saw waves, filtered tones, sounds from the Elektron Digitone, and some drums from the WMD drum modules.

Sources:
00:00 - White Noise
01:33 - Saw Wave
04:00 - Filtered Saw Wave
05:30 - Elektron digitone
09:20 - FM'd Sine Wave
12:10 - Mono drum mix"

WMD ORION - Eurorack Phaser Module - In-depth overview

video upload by WMDevices

"WMD Orion is an analog Phaser effect module for eurorack modular synthesizers in 4HP. It can be used in mono or as a mono to stereo effect, creating cosmic swirls of spaced out texture. An instant bypass switch allows for hands-on engaging of the sound.

The number of stages can be set by the user and the resonance, depth, rate, and frequency-center controls make for quick dialing in of the perfect effect.

In this video, we go through the features and functions while highlighting the sound by using a variety of sound sources including analog noise, oscillators, as well as chord and drum samples."

Thanks WMD! | A tribute to Alex & William from WMDevices

video upload by Cinematic Laboratory

"I was a bit shocked by the sad news of #WMD closing shop by the end of 2022. I did not see that one coming. This may also be because I've been putting my head in the sand for three years, trying to stay away from a world going into a second 'roaring 20's' with a super flu, dropping economies and war on EU soil. Nobody f*cking asked for this. I've seen a lot of posts posing questions like 'is eurorack dying out?'. Sure, some brands will not make it, but new brands will start fresh without relying on parts that are not available. I guess we'll see a more fully analog modules in a near future.

As for WMD, I love every single module they make/made. They're top quality modules, aimed at the performer. Even if you don't perform live, you can do a great show in your basement, attic or living room. So get your smartphone out and make/post a little tribute to make sure WMD knows we love them. Finally, I have blind faith WMD will be back one day. Maybe under a different name, but artistry, expertise and quality never closes shop. Just make sure you get the latest firmwares and manuals for your gear, and get your WMD bucket list cleared. When they sell out, they will be sold out forever. I got a DB25 expander, Geiger Counter & Axxent expander this week and trying to figure out which VCO I'd get to complete my collection."

WMD SUBWAY - 8 input, 1 output scanner eurorack module - In depth demo

video upload by WMDevices

"Introducing Subway, an 8 input, 1 output scanning crossfader in 6 HP. Transit for your signals!"

WMD SUBWAY - 8 input, 1 output scanner eurorack module - Audio Demo - No Talking!

"8 inputs and correlating on/off switches let you decide how many signals are a part of the line. Then, smoothly fade from one signal to the next using the knob or an external CV source.

In this video, Alex goes over the features and functions of the modules and provides audio examples of fun patches made with it."

Three new WMD Eurorack Modules - Legion, Orion, Subway

video upload by WMDevices

"A relatively quick demo and jam featuring our newest (and last) modules [see this post]. I say I'm not going to go in-depth, but I couldn't help myself. These modules are rad, and I like showing them off. More focused vids to come soon.

These modules are all being made in limited runs of 600. Once they're gone, they're gone.

Legion - Analog oscillator with TONS of outputs
Orion - Analog Phaser with wavefolder, variable stage amounts, and bypass
Subway - 8 input, 1 output signal scanner


BUY THE NEW MODULES HERE: https://wmdevices.com/collections/new...

WMD Winding Down Production and Closing Shop w/ Announcement of Three New Modules

via WMD

3 new modules are available for preorder now! More info, and videos to come soon! Each of these products will be a limited run. Once they’re gone, they’re gone! Preorder today at wmdevices.com.
.
We also have some important and not so exciting news. Due to the state of the world, WMD is planning to wind down production and close by the end of the year. We have these new modules and a bit more stuff coming, but that’s all we can do. Please read the post linked in our bio before flooding the comments with questions.
.
Huge thanks to everyone that’s ever supported us, we appreciate it so, so much. We will be conducting biz as usual for the next few months, supporting products, firmware for Metron, attending Velocity, and Knobcon showing the new products and hanging with friends.
.
Freq Boutique and Patched Out will continue to happen as well. Come party with us tomorrow at Freq if you can!
.
Get your orders in, lots of stuff is discounted right now, please help us push through the next few months so we can land as smoothly as possible.
.
We love y’all.
.
WMD.
#eurorack #modularsynth #modularsynthesizer

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Note: I created a Global Chip Shortage label for businesses and products/projects impacted by the global supply chain issue. For companies going under I've added the RIP label for now as well. You can click on either to see other companies and products impacted.

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Interview with William Mathewson (WMD) - live transitions in Eurorack modular for live performance

video upload by WMDevices

"Playing a live set is a challenge and when it comes to live electronic music on hardware instruments, the set of challenges become unique. One of our goals here at WMD is to make instruments that are fun to interact with in real time, and get to be played like a traditional instrument. Another goal is to create tools that allow for preparation, making live performance less stressful and more fun.

In this video, Alex talks with William Mathewson, the WM of WMD (William Mathewson Devices), about how he prepares for a live set. We take an inside look at how he uses the WMD Metron, Voltera, and Rossum Assimil8or module to create a unique palette of sounds that moves subtly from one song to the next. William's style requires lots of preparation and for him to write an entire set worth of music at once in a linear fashion, rather than one song at a time, and much different than a totally improvised performance."

Creating deep modulation for cool house style chords in Eurorack with WMD OSD, Javelin, and Overseer

video upload by WMDevices

"WMD OSD (OR/SUM/DIF) was released earlier this year and although it's a tiny 4 HP utility, it can be used to make some really cool, deep modulations with envelopes and LFOs.

In this video, Alex walks through creating some unique deep house style chord samples for the Rossum Electro-Music Assimil8or by modulating a rather simple chord sound with two envelopes and one LFO all at the same time with OSD's analog OR function.

Logic in Eurorack modular synthesizers can be confusing and intimidating, but it's really rather simple. This video shows the best way to combine multiple CV signals to create unique textures that can then be used in a performance or recording setting."

How to make "snappy" AR and AD Envelopes with an ADSR - Featuring WMD Javelin

video upload by WMDevices

"AD envelopes are great for making quick percussive sounds. An AR is similar however will stay open for the duration of the gate signal it receives. ADSR envelopes add a bit more contour and are great for classic synth sounds with varied gate lengths.

In this video, Alex demonstrates the differences of each style of envelope and how to make them with the WMD Javelin Envelope + VCA combo.

'Snappy' is a subjective term commonly used to describe the way an envelope sounds. It can be likened to word like quick, fast, plucky, blippy etc. AD envelopes are known for their snappy qualities and strengths in making percussive blips and bongo like sounds. The javelin has lots of really unique options for an envelope like Accent, voltage levels, time ranges, and a mode switch that makes it act much more like a triggered A/D than your common ADSR. A super versatile module for all sounds and styles of synthesis.

We then go a bit deeper into what this type of envelope can be used for and introduce the WMD C4RBN filter to create a low-pass gate inspired patch.If you've ever wondered if the filter goes before or after the VCA, Alex shows examples of both and explains why you might want to do it one way or the other."

Freq Boutique 054

video upload by WMDevices

"The modular synth open-mic in Denver, CO.

Set times:
7:00 - Burnt Coffee
7:30 - Sine Mountain
8:00 - Zack Hagan
8:30 - Drift Diffusion
9:00 - ALX . NN . FB . ??
9:30 - MAWR"

WMD Kraken Eurorack Module - 15 minutes of sounds NO TALKING

video upload by

"Kraken is a physical modeling snare drum module for eurorack modular synthesizers. No samples, 100% digital synthesis with the ability to make realistic snare drums of all sizes, shapes, materials, and colors.

In this video we explore the sounds that Kraken can create, from traditional snares, to distorted blasts of noise, to experimental percussive synthesis. No talking, just sounds.

All sounds in this video were created with Kraken. No external effects or other sound sources whatsoever."

WMD Kraken Eurorack Snare Drum - In-depth demonstration
video upload by WMDevices

"In this video, Alex runs through the features and parameters of Kraken, giving you a peak into the workflow and sounds it can generate."

Freq Boutique 050 - Back at the FORT

video upload by WMDevices

"Freq Boutique is going back to Fort Greene for an in person showcase!

Set times:
7:00 Skyprojection
7:30 Gerald Fjord
8:00 The Aefonic
8:30 EZBOT
9:00 monoscene
9:30 Memory Bell


All times pm Mountain Time.

Freq Boutique is a monthly event catered around modular synthesizers and synthesists. You can think of it kind of like like an open mic night for synth heads. Free to attend at Fort Greene in Denver, CO.

Sign up to play: https://www.coloradomodularsynthsocie..."

New WMD eurorack module announcement - OSD

video by WMDevices

"OSD, aka OR SUM DIF, is 3 independent blocks of useful utility in 4HP.

OSD is centered around combining voltage in useful ways. Audio, V/Oct, and control voltage are at home in this utility. OSD offers a fully DC coupled signal path with precision components to make this happen. High quality, configurability, and compact size ensure OSD will always find it's way into your patch.

- Combine v/Oct sequences with precision summing, or enable the the precision OR circuit for completely different results.

- Mix two envelopes or an envelope and lfo using sum to create large accented voltages or combine with OR to keep the output in the original range.

- Crossfade between audio or control voltage using the potentiometer in block one. Setting DIF will invert the signal at the B jack."


WMD OSD (OR / SUM / DIF) - in depth demo / tutorial

"In this video we cover the basics of Or, Sum, and Difference logic types and how they might be useful in a eurorack modular synthesizer performance system.

00:25​ Skip the intro (module overview)
01:07​ Logic Explanation
04:10​ Patching with OSD"

WMD 4TTEN - In-use demo with Rossum Electro-music Assimil8or

video by WMDevices

"Attenuation and offset are often overlooked functions in synthesis and the Eurorack ecosystem. However, they can be a very useful addition to modules that lack knobs but have plenty of CV inputs. 4tten packs 4 channels of attenuation or offset in 4hp, adding fader control to any module in a very little amount of space.

4tten is a simple module. 4 channels of attenuation with fader control. We added 5V normalled to the inputs so you can use it as a variable offset module, basically adding faders to any module you want. Perfect for when your cable management cannot avoid covering a crucial knob and modules that need more hands on control.

In this video, we cover using the 4tten to add fader control to the Rossum Electro-Music Assimil8or. Having hands on control over multiple parameters at once eliminates mid-performance menu diving, as well as access to tonal parameters in real-time, great for changing up energy and feels with simple tweaks."

"4TTEN (pronounced either ATTEN or FOUR-TEN) is a four channel attenuator and offset generator.

Use 4TTEN to attenuate any CV or audio signal by running through the ins and outs.

A +5V voltage source is normalled to each input, making it a standalone offset when there is no cable patched into an input.

Each channel is completely independent.

Ever-so-useful in live performance, we designed this module with 4 sliders for easy maneuverability, visual feedback, and enjoyable to play interface. Make your eurorack modular synthesizer system more playable with 4TTEN!

*** 4TTEN's PCB is 113mm (4.45") tall and may be a tight fit in some cases (TTA Z-Rails especially)***

Highlights

- 4 independent attenuators for Control Voltage and Audio signals

- Performance friendly sliders

- Can be used as 0 to +5V Offset

- Comfortable fader caps from the Performance Mixer

- Only 4 hp!

SPECS:
Size: 4hp
Depth: 30mm(with cables)
Power: +5mA , -5mA
Virtually no drop on 1V/Oct signals.
VERTICAL PCB LENGTH: 113mm (4.45")
IMPEDANCE = (SOURCE + 100ohm ) / 100kohm
UNBUFFERED"

Alias Zone: A Vision of the Future (performed by Chris Meyer | Learning Modular)

Learning Modular

"I performed this piece live as part of WMD's & the Colorado Modular Synth Society's Freq Boutique 045 on January 11, 2021. I recorded it locally as I played so I could present a higher-quality version for you, although this is still the stereo "board mix" (not an edited multitrack - in other words, it's not perfect).

For in-depth notes on how I composed, patched, and performed the piece, I wrote a couple of in-depth posts for my Patrons:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/track-b...
https://www.patreon.com/posts/track-b...

To see the rest of that night's performances, as well as the live chat:"

Freq Boutique 045

WMDevices

"A virtual version of WMD's monthly community showcase of modular synthesizer performances, FREQ BOUTIQUE. 6 Performers. 25 Minute time slots with a 5 Minute Q+A session with each performer so we can all learn a bit!

This month's lineup is:
7:00 - Alias Zone https://www.instagram.com/learningmod...
7:30 – Calytrix - https://www.instagram.com/kyythane
8:00 - Renku Corporation - https://www.instagram.com/renkucorp
8:30 – El Roachy - https://www.instagram.com/elroachy
9:00 – Herr Shield - https://www.instagram.com/herr_shield
9:30 – Null Phi Infinity - https://www.instagram.com/Nullphiinfi...

For more info, visit http://WMDevices.com and https://ColoradoModularSynthSociety.com "

WMD SCLPL - In Depth Tutorial

WMDevices

"Frequency equalization (EQ) is something that the Eurorack industry has been lacking for a long time now. Sure, there are plenty of EQs out there with limited feature sets, but we felt the need for something more. We wanted presets so we could change settings mid-set and that turned to the question "what if they morphed smoothing from on to another?" which has brought us to what is now known as SCLPL.

The WMD SCLPL is a dual mono / stereo EQ and morphing filter for eurorack modular synthesizers in 4HP. 9 presets let you save different EQ settings and then morph between them with CV or manually with knobs.

In this video, we cover the basics. We use White Noise from the WMD/SSF Modbox and sweep frequencies. We then use Drum Break and Chord samples from the Rossum Assiml8or to learn how to set up EQs, save Presets, and more."

"The mix surgeon's best friend is now a powerful effect in your eurorack system.

SCLPL (pronounced SCALPEL) is a Stereo 5-Band Digital EQ / Morphing Filter module for eurorack modular synthesizers. Use it to cut out problem frequencies on voices in your mix or to add pleasing enhancements to your stereo field.

Dual Mono and Stereo Control Schemes make it an excellent addition to any WMD Performance Mixer Setup. Add 4 SCLPL for 8 channels of EQ in 16HP. Put a 5th on the Master Bus and you have the ultimate eurorack mixing setup!

A simple user interface makes it a powerful tool for many use cases. It features 9 user-programmable preset slots that can then be "morphed" between seamlessly with CV or the Level knob in Morph Mode.

Each frequency band is set independently with the Level, Q, and Frequency knobs, and a helpful LED display aids in knowing exactly what's going on at all times.

Frequency bands include a Low Shelf, 3 Mid-Range Peaking Bands, and a High Shelf."