Tag: utility modules

Synthrotek 1U Stereo Output Mixer – DIY Build

Synthrotek 1U Stereo Output Mixer - DIY Build

If you are like us and have multiple modular racks in your studio, there comes a time when you end up with a row of 1U. We didn’t have one until we purchased a lunchbox case from the gang at Synthrotek.

With 44hp to spare in our 1U slots, we opted for 2 modules that will fill up the space completely and be very useful. The first module we bought was the Synthrotek 1U Stereo Output Mixer.

This module not only made sense, it was to be our go to for all audio leaving the case.

Considering we have built many modules prior, we didn’t expect to have any issues building the 1U module (PulpLogic format), so let’s get on with it. 


Synthrotek XFD – DIY Build

Synthrotek XFD - DIY Builds

The gang over at Synthrotek have done it again with another crossfader module, only this time it can work with video as well. According to SR, “the XFD is a CV-controlled vactrol-based crossfader module, ideal for both audio and bipolar CV sources.

It can be used as a cv-controlled attenuator: connecting just one input allows the signal to quickly fade in a VCA-like fashion.” For our build, we chose the audio version of the module whereas both are currently available in the links below. 


Synthrotek VCA – DIY Build

Synthrotek Crossfader (CF) and 2hp Buff Mult - DIY Builds

We all know that you can’t have enough VCA’s in a modular system. The gang over at Synthrotek recently released a new VCA module in their slider series and we had to pick one up. This kit is different from most of the other Synthrotek kits we have assembled in the past, in that it is an SMD kit. With that being said, this module and/or build is not for the novice builder. 

You will want to have a few hours of practice on SMD before jumping into this one. 

The slider series by Synthrotek looks great and along side the other slider modules, the VCA fits right in. As with most SMD builds, we generally use a digital microscope, but on this build we did not. We not only used our normal 60/40 solder but we also used solder paste on some of the build. Let’s get on with the build shall we?


Synthrotek Crossfader (CF) and 2hp Buff Mult – DIY Builds

Synthrotek Crossfader (CF) and 2hp Buff Mult - DIY Builds

In December 2021, we highlighted a few smaller modules produced by Synthrotek. These modules included the Power Pak, Adapt 1/4 and a Stereo Buffered Mult. The new Crossfader Module (CF) and the new Buffered Mult from Synthrotek are two new modules that join their line of utility modules and we had the opportunity to put them on the build table. 

Just like the previous utility modules, the Crossfader module is a quick and easy build. There are very few hole-through components to complete the module. The Buffered Mult on the other hand, has SMD components and requires finesse when assembling. A novice builder would want to steer away from the SMD soldering until they have had some practice. 

One thing remains true about both of these modules though. Being that both of these modules have a very small footprint in your rack, it is a no-brainer on why they both are“must haves”. Let’s get on with the builds. 

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