Moog DFAM vs Mother-32 Hands-On Demo

The latest loopop video takes a look at the recently released Moog Drummer From Another Mother (DFAM) Eurorack module.

The DFAM, originally only available to Moogfest attendees, is now the second production member of Moog’s Eurorack line.

Video Summary:

DFAM (Drummer From Another Mother) is the second semi-modular Moog are releasing in a compact, either standalone or 60hp eurorack form factor, following the Mother-32, and while they may look very similar, they’re actually very different animals.

I already did an in-depth review of the Mother-32 – so in this clip I focus more on a review of DFAM, but along the way comparing it to Mother-32, so that by the time it’s over, you’ll have a pretty good idea of how both synths work, and why even though they look the same, the end result gives each its unique character.

Both synths are very similar in that they contain oscillators, filters, envelopes and a patch bay, but there are a few core differences:

1. The sequencers have very different characteristics: DFAM’s sequencer is very analog – it has two tracks – both with continuous CV ranges. It also has a fixed number of 8 steps – though I show ways around that in the clip. In contrast, Mother-32’s sequencer is more flexible in terms of length and supports precisely pitched melodies, as well as a few other sequencing features shown in the clip.

2. Envelopes in DFAM are short, either 1 or 2 step envelopes, geared towards percussive sounds, where the envelope in Mother-32 has either two or three stages.

3. DFAM has two oscillators and no LFO (though each of the oscillators can go as low as single digit hz), whereas Mother-32 as only one LFO, that can go to audio rates.

4. Each has their own flavor of special oscillator goodies (FM in both, Hard sync in DFAM) 5. … and other differences as shown in the clip.

3 thoughts on “Moog DFAM vs Mother-32 Hands-On Demo

  1. 10,000 BPM lol, wow very cool, so much potential with tempo variations beyond the norm stuff just alone in generating all kinds of sonic mayhem. 10 years ago started my journey into the world of what lies below the surface of not just BPM but the actual millisecond subdivisions that make them up, and I have never looked back. Endless micro sonic worlds to explore in your audio editor once you start playing with millisecond chopping. Nice demo.

  2. beautiful synths. Only downside for me is that these two cost together almost as much as Prologue 8 voice. So if you are on a budget…… I don`t know but i yet fail to understand the pricing. But thats only my opinion. Don`t hit me

    1. i agree lol… i don’t know how/why they can claim all these components cost this much. Compare to the low cost korg analogs for example, like sq1 and the monotrons especially. It’s the same parts just with a few extra knobs and a metal case. Some people love their metal cases tho, and it has a nice build i’m sure.

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