3 Ways to Get Started with Modular Synthesizers
Sarah Belle Reid
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Sarah Belle Reid is a performer-composer who plays trumpet, modular synthesizer, and an ever-growing collection of handcrafted electronic instruments. Her unique musical voice explores the intersections between contemporary classical, experimental and interactive electronics, noise music, and improvisation. She has been recognized for her innovative work in expanding the "possibilities of the humble trumpet into new territory by the application of innovative sensing technology and sound processing” (Sequenza 21), including the development of her augmented trumpet, called MIGSI. Reid's debut album for trumpet and interactive electronics, "Underneath and Sonder," was released on pfMENTUM in October 2019.
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Video Description
In this video I’ll share 3 different ways to get started with modular synthesizers—even if you’re a complete beginner. I’ll talk about the advantages of starting with virtual synths, semi-modular synths, and Eurorack modular synths, as well as the differences between each approach so you can choose the best one for yourself. I’ll also share tips for planning your first Eurorack modular synth and how to make sure you’re putting together a system that supports your musical goals. Finally, I'll share some resources to help you get deeper into learning synthesis. Links mentioned in this video: Free Mini Course “Your 1st Modular Synth Patch”: https://www.soundandsynthesis.com/firstpatch2022 VCV Rack: https://www.vcvrack.com Discover Modular Synthesis: Moog Mavis (online course) https://www.soundandsynthesis.com/moog-mavis Free Moog Mavis Patch Bundle: https://www.soundandsynthesis.com/moog-mavis-patches Learning Sound & Synthesis (online course + coaching program): https://www.soundandsynthesis.com Gear mentioned in this video (affiliate links support my channel—thank you!): Moog Mavis Semi-Modular Synth: https://link.perfectcircuit.com/t/v1/S0BERUlFSUBFSEZMREZATEpITA?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.perfectcircuit.com%2Fmoog-mavis.html Make Noise 0-Coast Semi-Modular Synth: https://link.perfectcircuit.com/t/v1/S0BERUlFSUBFSEZMREZATEpITA?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.perfectcircuit.com%2Fmake-noise-0-coast.html PWM Malevolent Semi-Modular Keyboard Synth: https://link.perfectcircuit.com/t/v1/S0BERUlFSUBFSEZMREZATEpITA?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.perfectcircuit.com%2Fpwm-malevolent.html Arturia Minibrute Semi-Modular Keyboard Synth: https://link.perfectcircuit.com/t/v1/S0BERUlFSUBFSEZMREZATEpITA?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.perfectcircuit.com%2Farturia-minibrute-2-noir.html Make Noise Morphagene: https://link.perfectcircuit.com/t/v1/S0BERUlFSUBFSEZMREZATEpITA?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.perfectcircuit.com%2Fmake-noise-morphagene.html Make Noise XPO: https://link.perfectcircuit.com/t/v1/S0BERUlFSUBFSEZMREZATEpITA?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.perfectcircuit.com%2Fmake-noise-xpo.html Bastl Ikarie Stereo Filter: https://link.perfectcircuit.com/t/v1/S0BERUlFSUBFSEZMREZATEpITA?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.perfectcircuit.com%2Fbastl-ikarie.html Make Noise Optomix: https://link.perfectcircuit.com/t/v1/S0BERUlFSUBFSEZMREZATEpITA?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.perfectcircuit.com%2Fmake-noise-optomix-1.html Joranalogue Transmit 2 Stereo Output: https://link.perfectcircuit.com/t/v1/S0BERUlFSUBFSEZMREZATEpITA?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.perfectcircuit.com%2Fjoranalogue-transmit-2.html Make Noise 0-Ctrl: https://link.perfectcircuit.com/t/v1/S0BERUlFSUBFSEZMREZATEpITA?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.perfectcircuit.com%2Fmake-noise-0-ctrl.html 4MS Pod Case: https://link.perfectcircuit.com/t/v1/S0BERUlFSUBFSEZMREZATEpITA?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.perfectcircuit.com%2F4ms-pod64x-64hp-powered.html Intellijel 4U Palette Cases: https://link.perfectcircuit.com/t/v1/S0BERUlFSUBFSEZMREZATEpITA?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.perfectcircuit.com%2Fintellijel-palette-case.html Join my Patreon community for behind-the-scenes content, unreleased music, and more: https://www.patreon.com/sarahbellereid TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Intro + Overview 1:50 VCV Rack 8:09 Semi-modular synths 14:10 Eurorack Sarah Belle Reid is a Canadian performer-composer, active in the fields of electroacoustic trumpet performance, intermedia arts, music technology, and improvisation. www.sarahbellereid.com
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