Synthrotek M/DIV Eurorack Modular Build
For our final build of the summer, we take on the Synthrotek M/DIV Eurorack Module. This module is apart of the “slider series” developed by Synthrotek and has the ability to multiply or divide clock signals with a quick slide. What sets this utility module apart from other similar modules is that the M/DIV can do both (multiply and divide) due to its dual clock channels. It also has a master clock out bringing the total outputs to 3.
The M/DIV also contains a clock reset input and a “tap” tempo button to help your performance reach new heights. The sliders that Synthrotek uses are reactive and contain a small LED that easily gives you an idea of what is going on with your clock signals.
MDIV or M/DIV?
So you may have noticed the spelling the M/DIV on the packaging or have read related media that shows it being spelled in other ways (MDIV or M-DIV). The correct spelling of the module is “M/DIV” and for our purposes here, we will also refer to it as the M/DIV instead of any other way of spelling.
Let’s get onto the build …
Time Lapse and Build Notes
First off, the M/DIV can seem like a pretty quick build, but it can be a tricky one if you don’t know how to read a BOM. The kit ships with the BOM and at the time of this build, there were no assembly instructions to go by.
We had to refer to a similar module made by Synthrotek (the OBEY) to see how to connect the two PCBs properly. This isn’t a big thing, but it could cause some confusion for novice builders.
There are some small solder pads on this build, so make sure you keep a clean iron and use a finer point tip to do the soldering. We used a little FLUX paste during our build to help adhesion of the solder which requires cleaning after the build, but this is only an option.
The most difficult part of the build had to be the sliders and the 90 degree pins that held the boards together at an angle so that everything lines up. Once we figured the orientation of the standoff, the pins had to be trimmed upon soldering. This allows one of the sliders to be mounted to the board next to the other.
-
- MDIV Build Photo
-
- Logic Board Assembly
-
- Logic Board Rear View
-
- MDIV Building Photo
-
- Logic Board Close Up
-
- Control Board View
-
- Completed Module Side View
-
- Completed Module Rear View
VERY IMPORTANT: You have to make sure to trim these standoff pins very low, and it is recommended that you reflow the solder after clipping. Just make make sure none of the soldering points are touching the bottom of the slider.
Features and Specifications
Features:
- Two clock channels, each capable of multiplying and dividing clocks
- 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 16 multiplications/divisions
- Tap tempo
- Master clock input and output
- CV over number of multiplications/divisions
- Clock reset jack
Module Specifications:
- Module width: 4HP
- Module depth: 55mm
Power Draw:
+12V: 28mA
-12V: 2mA
M/DIV Purchasing Information
Panel and PCB Combo
- IC Included
- List Price: $29.99 USD
- Click on the image to be redirected to the Synthrotek Store Page
M/DIV DIY Kit
- Includes all components, PCB and Panel for assembly
- List Price: $79.99 USD
- Click on image to be redirected to the Synthrotek Store Page
Assembled M/DIV Module
- Fully assembled and calibrated
- List Price: $125.00 USD
- Click on image to be redirected to the Synthrotek Store Page
Synthrotek M/DIV - Final Thoughts
Upon completing the module, we placed it into our test case and fired it up. The slider series from Synthrotek has very nice aesthetics and the orangish hue from the sliders gave a sort of ambiance to the module. The standard black SR panel pairs nicely amongst its brethren kin and the module provides a lot of function in just 4HP.
With tap tempo and its dual clock utility, we were patching bass drums and dividing steps on our sequencer in a matter of minutes. This is one utility module that every rack or case should have at least one of due to its unique ability to literally transform rhythm.
Standing ovations Synthrotek … standing ovations!
If you have questions or comments about the Synthrotek M/DIV, please feel free to reach out to us via our Contact page. If you would like to pick up the M/DIV, click on the links above to head on over to Synthrotek and let them know that we sent ya!
Until the next build …
~ f i N
