Year: 2019

Synthrotek Roboto – DIY Build

December 27, 2019
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Synthrotek ROBOTO - Eurorack Modular Build

Synthrotek Roboto DIY Kit
Roboto Eurorack DIY Kit by Synthrotek

As 2019 came winding down, the gang out at Synthrotek sent us over the Roboto Eurorack DIY kit and low and behold, we were onto another build. The Synthrotek Roboto was originally released in 2017, but has quickly become a staple in a lot of musicians racks due to its versatility and uniqueness. 

From the first module in our rack, we have always had our eyes on the Synthrotek Roboto. We were excited to finally take this one and see what it could do. Roboto is known as a vocoder, pitch shifter, speak-n-spell effect processor, vibrato provider, an 8-bit modulator or plain and simple…  a bit crusher.

Now, let’s get on with the build.

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Bizmuth Chaotic Signal Router – DIY Build

December 8, 2019
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Bizmuth Chaotic Signal Router - DIY Build

Close up Panel - Bizmuth Chaotic Signal Router
Bizmuth Chaotic Signal Router

As we approach the new year, the Bizmuth Chaotic Signal Router kit for Eurorack landed on our workbench. The Bizmuth is purely what it states it is – a signal router for modular systems. What does this mean? 

According to Bizmuth Modular, you can route switch or combine up to six signals, or generate up to six gates by turning three endless knobs with one hand.

The module has three identical switches with three IO Jacks each: A, B and C. All operate according to the same four step connection sequence: A B C, A-B C, A-B-C, A B-C, and so on. A dash (-) indicates a connection between the signals.

As you turn a knob, the connection sequence of the corresponding switch advances and new connections appear between the three IO jacks. The connection sequence repeats 24 times in one full 360 revolution. That means you have a different patch every 3.75 degrees.

All jacks are also bi-directional, which means you can use them as inputs and outputs. Read that again… you can use them as inputs and outputs. For example, you can route a signal from the B IO jack to A, A and C, or just C, just like you can route two signals from A and/or C to B.

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Synthrotek Arcadian Rhythms – DIY Build

November 29, 2019
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Synthrotek Arcadian Rhythms - DIY Modular Build

Completed Module

As the new year draws upon us, we take on a brand new module originally introduced at Knobcon 2019. The Synthrotek Arcadian Rhythms is a touch controller that brings the feel of the retro arcade right to eurorack. 

The design of the module is quite simple. Three arcade buttons, a power header, some standoffs, three jacks, a few resistors and a couple trimmers make up the module. This simple, yet intricate little design gives even the novice builder a chance to take a stab at DIY.

Synthrotek have always had a knack for ensuring that the builder is well suited to tackle their builds. They not only include a BOM with their kits, but they post their BOM and assembly instructions on their website as well.

Now, enough with all that… let’s get on with the build.

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Error Instruments TOMO (Ketchup) – DIY Build

November 8, 2019
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Error Instruments TOMO Eurorack Module - DIY Build

Completed Front Panel

When it comes to unique modules in the Eurorack world, a few names come to mind. One being Error Instruments located in the Netherlands. The owner, Paul Tas is like a mad scientist when it comes to his creations and the new Error Instruments TOMO is no exception.

The TOMO is a new 12HP touch interface CV/gate controller for eurorack synthesizers. Originally released as a stand alone module, the “Ketchup” version of TOMO finds its way into DIYers hearts. We picked one up immediately after hearing of its release. 

So whats with the TOMO names?​

Ketchup, Toxic, Blanks, TOMO … these are all different names for the versions or panel colors of TOMOs. The Ketchup is the only DIY version and basically matches the color of our favorite dipping sauce. This is the kit we assembled for this review and build video. TOMO Toxic is a yellowish green color and TOMO blanks is a white version of the glitchy touch controller. 

The original TOMO panel comes in a black and is still readily available if you are interested. They are all available over at Pauls ETSY shop.

Enough with all the filler, let’s get onto the build!

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