Month: July 2020

Synthrotek OBEY – DIY Build

July 19, 2020
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Synthrotek OBEY - DIY Build

OBEY - Completed Front

Coming in hot this month is our build of the Synthrotek OBEY eurorack module. This dual-function module is one half envelope follower and one half attenuverter or offset generator.

On one side of the module, the OBEY can take inputs from piezos, guitars, drum machines and even microphones to trigger an envelope or gate into your eurorack system. The other side of the Synthrotek OBEY can attenuvert voltage sources in both positive or negative values (up to 2x times), giving this tiny module some hell of an impact on your performance/recordings.

Born from the Synthrotek nano series of modules, the OBEYs footprint is only 4HP wide. It has 4x LED sliders that control the various two sides of the module. Now, judging by our description, it seems overwhelming and complicated to use. It is not. Synthrotek has provided a lot of documentation and there are several YouTube videos out and about that show the OBEY being utilized.

NOTE: You can access the build docs and the manuals below in our “Quick Links” section below. 

Let’s get on with the build shall we?

Upon unpacking the module, you will notice that it comes with 2x PCBs and 1x panel. Set the smaller of the PCBs aside (it’s the control board that you mount jacks, sliders, etc to) and pick up the logic board. This is where we will start the build process.

fin Divider
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Store-O-Rack by Cereal Instruments

July 9, 2020
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Cereal Instruments - Store-O-Rack

Seeing as we are continuously looking for the next awesome and unique modules to add to our racks, we came across a peculiar post from our friends out at Cereal Instruments. They had developed a limited number of a little box they call the Store-O-Rack. 

The Store-O-Rack is an 18HP box (literally) with a velcro top. Simple and genius… Announced specifically on Instagram as a limited edition, we knew these would be gone in minutes. A few minutes later and we were going to be one of the limited owners. 

Now, one might be asking why would someone want an 18HP box to put in their rack? Well, we have a HUGE studio case … multiple actually, and we have PLENTY of room. 

We also do a lot of modular DIY, so we have cable testers, eurorack LED plugs and other supplies just sitting around. This was the PERFECT solution.

Store-O-Rack - Cereal Instruments - IG Post
The Store-O-Rack was born!
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Division 6 CEM3340 VCO – DIY Build

July 6, 2020
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Division 6 CEM3340 VCO - DIY Build

Completed CEM3340 Front

Summer is in full swing and we were craving some new oscillators to add to our modular rack. This need was fulfilled by Division 6 labs and Synthrotek with the new Division 6 CEM3340 VCO.

This voltage control oscillator is based off the famous Curtis 3340 IC which has been around for quite some time and have been utilized in many legacy synths.  Our build of the Division 6 CEM3340 was a quick and easy build and is recommended for anyone just getting into modular DIY. 

What is the Curtis 3340 IC?

Many synths today utilize chips that mimic the famous Curtis 3340. While this chip is no longer manufactured in mass volume, there is a few places that still sell the chip. What makes this chip so special is it is a self contained, precision voltage controlled oscillator. 

Note: The chip used in this kit is not an original Curtis 3340 IC, but it’s damn close!  

It features both exponential and linear control scales and up to four buffered output waveforms. ( triangle, sawtooth, square and pulse). They do not require a temperature compensation resistor because they provide their own compensation. Multiple control voltages can be mixed within itself.  

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