The Basics of Modular Synthesis

This video captures an introduction to the basics of modular synthesis, by Ian Taylor.

Taylor demonstrates the basics of synthesis using a rare Digisound 80 modular synthesizer. Many of the Digisound module designs were published as DIY projects in British electronics magazines in the 1980’s. 

Taylor’s discussion comes from Synthesized – an annual electronic music event held at The Centre for Computing History (UK) each year. The event celebrates synthesizers, drum machines, samplers, computer sound cards, home brew electronic music devices and the world of electronic music.

via Synthesized

5 thoughts on “The Basics of Modular Synthesis

    1. Hey Ned, have a heart The guy had to deal with a lot of crummy tech in the past.The YOOF of today, well they just get all these vintage stuff, cleaned up and made easy and healthy to a degree.You get your Euro rack system , maybe £250,(300) Euros per module , All manuals ,tutorials on the Net and YouTube. The guy did not say how much these units cost and don’t forget these where DIY modules you had to solder them[using lead solder BTW] ,order parts by sending a cheque in the post with an order form [ snail mail].To give you a perspective the magazine Electronics and Music maker , and ETI referred to the prices for these DIY modules where £90-£100 , 36 years ago, you can do the calculation. Back in the day when guys like this first first bought electronic Music kit they did not spend their money on eating , however beer had equal importance to music gear.
      Never forget -We are both Victims and Celebrants of our time

  1. … now this takes me back.
    I took over from Charles after his death – some big boots to fill.
    Scored a few hits with stuff like the VCDO and a full voice card but regretfully the analogue synth market was wiped out by the advent of FM synthesis (and such like) and Digisound Ltd (Blackpool) folded. Small firm with just one design & development engineer.
    The original articles were published in ETI and only the latter ones in E & MM.

    An indelible mark on synthesis history – every credit to Charles.

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