Beat / Modular systems have quite a run. Many developers and manufacturers build their own modules or integrate CV-ports into their desktop synths or audio-interfaces. So meanwhile almost every studio should be compatible to the world of modular synths. Do you feel that, too?
Kris / There are a million ways to interface line- and instrument-level gear with Eurorack! Whether it’s built-in CV and gates, MIDI, level shifters, or other utilities, getting signals in and out of Eurorack can be done reasonably simply. I think when considering whether to get into modular, the issue is less a question of compatibility and more one of whether it’s a tool that a user will find useful and inspiring.
Andrew / It has been great to see an expanding level of support for analog interfaces on other studio gear. The fact of the matter is, although MIDI is great for certain applications, analog voltage has its own skillset which is completely different than MIDI.
Gur / I think that some manufacturers feel that adding CV and gate to their non-Eurorack gear enhances their products, while other manufacturers are Eurorack users themselves and want to integrate their own tools into the modular system. If you ask many audio software manufacturers what hardware they have at home, they will say a Eurorack. So it‘s obvious that the integration of all worlds is a wonderful thing and a testament to the success of Eurorack.
Dieter / Yes, at least in studios that also produce electronic music.
Girts / Nowadays, modular systems have become an integral part of many studio and live setups, so it’s no wonder manufacturers consider the integration of modular synths in their ecosystem. I believe that the rapid growth of eurorack was the main contributor to the popularity of the Arturia Keystep and Beatstep, which have become essentially industry standard controllers for modular systems. Apart from the obvious MIDI-CV interfaces, Erica Synths have several products that address interfacing modular with other instruments - the Link module in our drum series that addresses audio signal level differences and the Matrix Mixer that can integrate a modular system into studio or live setups at unprecedented depth.
Thomas / I agree with you. Manufacturers of audio interfaces seem to be placing more and more emphasis on DC-coupled outputs in order to be able to output control voltages. CV/gate connections are almost standard on synthesisers and controller keyboards. The modular system no longer seems to be exotic in the home or professional studio.
Beat / In which situations do you prefer a modular synthesizer to a desktop synthesizer and why?
Andrew / When I want to explore sound design in a very creative way, I always reach for a modular synth. These are situations where I‘m not sure exactly what I‘m looking for and want to discover something new. If I already have a sound in my head, sometimes it‘s easier to use desktop synths, thanks to the pre-configured signal path.
/ Desktop synths aren’t nearly as customizable as a modular synth, so in most cases, I prefer a modular synth. With hundreds of manufacturers making products that are all compatible with each other, the customisation options with a modular
