Tag: voltage controlled

Synthrotek AstroNoise – DIY Build

Synthrotek AstroNoise - DIY Build

Inspired by 80’s chip tune drum machines, the Synthrotek AstroNoise contains 3 different vintage tones that can give your track something its been missing. Originally released as a DIY project for Knobcon, the AstroNoise came into the world of modular last year in all of its nostalgic glory.

Since we could not make it to Knobcon 2021, we were thankful that this kit made it into the wild. Let’s get on with the build!

The Build...

Upon cracking open the kit, the novice builder could be overwhelmed by the number of things going on. Multiple ICs, bags of LEDs and switches and pots that are not labeled. Synthrotek includes the BOM with their kit and it also available online if that is easier to access. This is essential in building this kit, as well as having a way to test resistors in case any of them got shuffled in the packing or shipping. First things first; start by separating everything (make sure to keep the LEDs in their bags until you get to that part of the build)


Synthrotek Quadrangle – DIY Build

Synthrotek Quadrangle - DIY Build

The Synthrotek Quadrangle is a quad cascading triggered envelope generator with bipolar output attenuversion and is 20HP module with a lot of versatility. With 4 cascading envelope generators and user voltage control over attacks and decay/release, this module is in a class all to itself. 

As the fall season slowly began creeping in, we decided to go back and see what kits we had left to build for the year. To our surprise, we totally forgot that we had the mysterious Quadrangle from Synthrotek up on our build wall. This was partially due to the studio remodel and the continuous go go go of daily life. 

The Kit...

When we opened up the kit, the first thing we noticed was the size of the boards. This was a BIG module. 20HP to be exact. It consisted of 2 PCBs and one panel. We ordered the kit with the black panel but Synthrotek also offers a silver panel. As this kit was a big one, we knew we where in good hands with the amount of build data there would be available.

Included in the kit was a printed BOM as well as all the components you need to complete the kit.

Intermediate to advanced builders will not have an issue with this build, whereas novice builders could struggle due to tight soldering pads.