MODULAR SYNTH PROJECT
So this is a lifetime project as modular synthesizers can be endless big... I just started to build simple modules like a powersupply, squarewave oscillators, buffered mixer and some modulators. A big thanks goes to Kristian Blåsol for this really encouraging videoseries about building your own modular synth. It got me started!
It was also Jaap Vink which is really inspiring. This guy made electronic soundscapes back in the 60s which sound just amazing! I had the luck to digitize some of his tapes which are part of the Gaudeamus Music Archive which is preserved in the Allard Pierson Museum. He used ring modulation in a feedback loop controlled by sort of an inversed envelope follower to avoid the feedback is going crazy. Check out this video which explains this technique by Jaap Vink, it really is worth watching if you are into this kid of thing.
For this project I made a wooden box with enough space to put enough modules in. The frontpanels are made from 4mm multiplex, it's cheap and easy to work with I think. I just used my soldeer tip to burn the names and labels on the panels :)
A good powersupply for a modular synth is very important. Do note that the powersupply I have build requires a AC/AC adapter, so not the more common AC/DC adapter!!!
The most simple oscillator to build is using the 40106 ic. You can basically have 6 oscillators with just one 40106 ic. Buy more then you need as they will die quickly if you make a mistake....
Here are the veroboard designs I made so far for this modular synth project which seem to work fine.
