Essential Modules to Get Started in the Eurorack World.

Hello, sound explorers! If you have already ventured into the exciting world of Eurorack modular synthesis or are considering taking the first step, it is essential to know the modules that will help you build a solid and versatile system. Today, we bring you a list of essential modules to help you start your musical journey and also enhance your creativity. Let’s dive in!

‍

1. Oscillator (VCO - Voltage Controlled Oscillator).

The oscillator is the heart of any synthesizer and is one of the most important modules in your Eurorack system. This module generates basic sound waves (sine, square, triangle, sawtooth, and ramp) that you can then shape and modify. There are many types of oscillators, but starting with a VCO that offers several waveforms is an excellent choice.

 Recommendation:

• DOSC: A dual 100% analog oscillator that offers up to 10 independent outputs, it has excellent performance in the modulation section, as with FM modulation, sync input, and cross-modulation between its two oscillators, it is perfect for creating complex tones.

‍

2. Filter (VCF - Voltage Controlled Filter).

Once you have your audio signal generated by the oscillator, the next step is to shape it. This is where the filter comes into play. Filters allow you to eliminate or attenuate certain frequencies from the audio signal.

Recommendation:

• Strainer: A dual filter that features four types of filters (Low-pass, High-pass, Band-pass, and Notch). A module that has voltage control parameters on each channel that allows for creating acid and experimental sound designs.

‍

3. Envelope Generator (ADSR).

An envelope generator is crucial for shaping how your audio sounds over time. This module controls the dynamics of your sound, defining how it starts, sustains, and fades out. The most common envelope is the ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, and Release).

Recommendation:

• Capture: A simple and easy-to-use envelope generator that performs its function perfectly. It offers two envelope outputs in a single module, conventional and inverted; the inverted can be set to positive or negative. This module has a manual Gate button and also an external Gate input for activations.

‍

4. VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplitude).

VCA modules control the amplitude (or volume) level of an audio or control signal based on an incoming signal. This module is essential for shaping and adding dynamics to sounds within a modular patch, as it allows you to control the flow of the signal, typically through an envelope or an LFO.

 Recommendation:

• MagControl: This module is a quadruple VCA where each channel has audio signal input, control voltage input, and an output signal.

‍

5. LFO (Low-Frequency Oscillator).

Low-frequency oscillators are fundamental for adding movement and variation to your sounds. An LFO can modulate other parameters like pitch, filter, or amplitude, creating modulations that bring life to your patches.

Recommendation:

• LazyFO: This module is a dual LFO that offers up to 4 control signals per channel, two output Gates, and slow/fast buttons. This provides a wide range of control possibilities for your modular setup.

‍

6. Mixer (Mono Mixer).

Mixers are essential for combining different signals in your modular system; they are perfect for additive synthesis and also serve to output sound in general. These modules are very important in creating patches for layered sound designs.

Recommendation:

• 5-ZigPlus: A compact mixer that allows you to sum up to five signals. A module that offers amplitude control and muting for each channel. It has a conventional output (5-Zig) and an inverted output (5-Inv).

‍

Conclusion.

Starting in the world of Eurorack may be an exciting and sometimes overwhelming experience. However, by equipping yourself with these essential modules, you will be well on your way to creating a versatile system full of possibilities. Remember that modular synthesis is a continuous journey of learning and experimentation. Don’t hesitate to try different combinations and keep exploring!

At ZanySignals, we are here to accompany you at every step of your musical adventure. So go ahead, connect your modules, and start creating unique sounds!

If you want information about each of these modules, we are here to advise you according to your needs.

Thank you!

ZanySignals Team.

‍

‍