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Embarking on a Eurorack journey can be exhilarating yet daunting, especially when faced with the task of choosing your initial modules. The key to this crucial first step lies in selecting modules that not only provide immediate functionality but also grow with your system over time.
In this article, I'll guide you through selecting the optimal modules to kickstart your Eurorack setup, ensuring both immediate satisfaction and long-term flexibility, all while maintaining affordability. With these modules, you'll have all the tools necessary right from the start to maximize creativity and fully experience the unique potential of the world's best musical instrument.
After Later Audio QARV Quad Attack Release VCA
The After Later Audio QARV is a powerhouse of modulation and processing capabilities, encapsulated in a compact quad VCA module. Each channel of the QARV offers versatile attack-release envelopes, which can serve as one-shot or looping functions. What sets the QARV apart is its multifaceted nature—it can act as a VCA, slew limiter, or even a basic oscillator. The ability to modulate attack and release times via CV ensures dynamic control over your patches, while the unique features of individual channels add complexity and depth to your modular compositions.
Why I Would Buy: The QARV is a must-have for any Eurorack setup. Whether you need precise envelopes, modulation sources, or basic synthesis capabilities, the QARV delivers.
Acid Rain Technology Maestro Clocked Modulation Controller
The Maestro by Acid Rain Technology introduces advanced modulation sources inspired by digital audio workstation automation lanes. Featuring six independent channels, the Maestro allows for complex modulation sequences and waveforms to be triggered individually or via clock synchronization. Its intuitive interface enables real-time manipulation of modulation parameters, making it ideal for live performances and evolving patches. With multiple modulation waves and timing options, the Maestro injects movement and depth into your Eurorack system effortlessly.
Why I Would Buy: The Maestro not only serves as a modulation powerhouse but can also function as a clock master, synchronizing various aspects of your modular rig. Its performance-oriented design encourages creativity and experimentation in real-time.
Ornament & Crime
The famed Ornament and Crime module, offering a plethora of CV utilities essential for modular synthesis. Initially conceived to perform a singular function as a digital quantizing analogue shift register, it retains this functionality while introducing a diverse array of additional "apps." These apps encompass quantizers, sequencers, LFOs, random/chaotic CV generators, and much more.
Why I Would Buy: This module represents the ultimate Swiss army knife of Eurorack. The Quantermain app stands out as an exceptional quantizer, offering unparalleled flexibility for sending precise and highly musical pitch information to your VCO. Beyond Quantermain, the module boasts a multitude of utilities through different firmwares that you can install, making it a versatile addition to any modular setup. Its compact size belies its expansive features, making it an indispensable tool for exploring diverse musical and functional possibilities within the Eurorack ecosystem.
NANO Modules ONA Analog Oscillator
The ONA Analog Oscillator from NANO Modules represents a versatile cornerstone in any Eurorack system, offering a rich array of waveforms and modulation options to enhance your sonic palette. Its unique waveshaping outputs and sub-oscillators deliver a diverse range of timbres and textures, ideal for sculpting complex sounds and driving creative exploration. The ONA empowers users to delve deep into waveform manipulation and modulation routing, expanding the possibilities of modular synthesis.
Why I Would Buy: The ONA's expansive waveform capabilities make it an essential component for crafting intricate soundscapes within Eurorack. Its flexibility and sonic depth rival those of the Intellijel Dixie 2+, offering a robust foundation for creative experimentation and synthesis exploration.
Setonixsynth Marsupial Dual Voltage Controlled Filter
The Marsupial Dual Voltage Controlled Filter by Setonixsynth introduces a new era of dual-filter design, utilizing re-issued AS3350 filter ICs for distinctive sound shaping. Featuring resonant low-pass and band-pass filters with series/parallel routing options, the Marsupial offers a wide range of musical and experimental filtering possibilities. Its normalization between control inputs simplifies patching while encouraging exploration of filter-based synthesis.
Why I Would Buy: The Marsupial's unique filter architecture and resonant characteristics inject personality into any Eurorack patch. Its dual-filter design expands sonic horizons, making it an essential component of a comprehensive modular setup. It never ceases to surprise.
Intellijel Mixup Chainable Mono/Stereo Audio Utility Mixer
The Mixup by Intellijel is an essential audio utility mixer optimized for Eurorack systems. With six inputs and two outputs, the Mixup facilitates seamless audio signal blending and routing. Its compact size and straightforward design make it perfect for consolidating multiple audio sources within a modular setup, ensuring clarity and control over your soundscapes.
Why I Would Buy: The Mixup's reliable performance and audio-centric design make it a foundational module for audio processing and mixing within a Eurorack system. Its expandable nature allows for future scalability and integration with additional Mixup units.
In Sum
These carefully curated modules offer a comprehensive foundation for your Eurorack journey, combining immediate functionality with long-term versatility. By investing in modules like the QARV, Maestro, Ornament and Crime, ONA, Marsupial, and Mixup, you'll not only experience the power of modular synthesis firsthand but also lay the groundwork for future expansions and creative explorations within the Eurorack ecosystem.
Whether you're a newcomer or seasoned enthusiast, the modules highlighted in this guide provide a balanced blend of essential synthesis tools, ensuring an enriching and rewarding Eurorack experience. As you embark on your modular synthesis journey, consider these modules as your first step towards sonic discovery and artistic expression.