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Use Cases

Not sure where to start? Here are common configurations for the MICRORACK system, from beginner to advanced.

Beginner Configurations

1. The Beginner Monosynth

A classic subtractive synthesizer voice.

Module Function
mod-vco Sound source (oscillator)
mod-vcf Tone shaping (filter)
mod-vca Volume control
mod-env Envelope for dynamics
mod-out-35 Audio output

Patch it: VCO → VCF → VCA → Output. Use ENV to control VCA for plucky sounds.

Learn: Basic synthesis signal flow, subtractive synthesis concepts.

2. The Ambient Drone Rig

Evolving, atmospheric textures.

Module Function
mod-vco ×2 Dual oscillators for thickness
mod-vcf Filtering overtones
mod-delay Space and atmosphere
mod-vco (LFO mode) ×2 Slow modulation sources

Patch it: Detune VCOs slightly. Use LFOs to slowly modulate filter cutoff and delay time.

Learn: Modulation, beating frequencies, ambient sound design.

Intermediate Configurations

3. The Guitar FX Processor

Turn your synth into a pedalboard.

Module Function
mod-in-63 Guitar input (high impedance)
mod-vcf Resonant filter sweeps
mod-sat Analog distortion/saturation
mod-delay Tape-style echoes
mod-out-63 To amp or audio interface

Patch it: Guitar → mod-in-63 → mod-vcf → mod-sat → mod-delay → mod-out-63.

Learn: Processing external audio, gain staging, effect chains.

4. The DAW Companion

Integrate analog warmth into your digital workflow.

Module Function
mod-midi MIDI-to-CV from your DAW
mod-vco Analog oscillator
mod-vcf Analog filter
mod-out-35 Back into audio interface

Patch it: MIDI from DAW → mod-midi pitch/gate → mod-vco → mod-vcf → mod-out-35 → audio interface.

Learn: Hybrid workflows, MIDI-CV integration, recording analog.

5. The Generative System

A synth that plays itself.

Module Function
mod-vco Sound source
mod-vcf Tone shaping
mod-seq 4-step sequencer
mod-noise Random/S&H source
mod-clk Clock source
mod-vco (LFO mode) Additional modulation

Patch it: Clock → Sequencer. Sequencer CV → VCO pitch. Noise → S&H → Filter cutoff.

Learn: Generative music, randomness, self-playing patches.

Advanced Configurations

6. The Vocal Transformer

Process your voice through analog circuits.

Module Function
mod-in-63 Mic input (via preamp)
mod-vcf Formant-like filtering
mod-delay Vocal doubling/effects
mod-vco (LFO mode) Filter modulation
mod-out-63 To PA or interface

Requires: External mic preamp with phantom power (for condenser mics).

Patch it: Mic → Preamp → mod-in-63 → mod-vcf → mod-delay → mod-out-63.

Learn: Live vocal processing, performance setup.

7. Hybrid Drum Setup

Digital triggers, analog sounds.

Module Function
mod-midi Trigger from e-drums or DAW
mod-noise Noise source for snares/hats
mod-vcf Shaping noise bursts
mod-env Snappy envelope for drums
mod-vca Dynamics

Patch it: MIDI gate → mod-env → mod-vca. mod-noise → mod-vcf → mod-vca.

Learn: Drum synthesis, envelope shapes, trigger-based patches.

8. Acoustic-to-Modular (Piezo)

Turn any object into a controller.

Module Function
mod-in-63 Piezo pickup input
mod-env Envelope follower mode
mod-vcf Modulated by envelope
mod-vco Sound source

Patch it: Piezo → mod-in-63 → mod-env (follower) → mod-vcf CV. Tap the surface to control filter.

Learn: Envelope following, acoustic/electronic hybrid, found sound.

9. The Pedalboard Expansion

MICRORACK as a custom analog effect.

Module Function
mod-in-63 From pedalboard send
mod-vcf Modulatable filter
mod-sat Saturation/distortion
mod-out-63 To pedalboard return

Patch it: Guitar chain send → mod-in-63 → mod-vcf → mod-sat → mod-out-63 → chain return.

Learn: Parallel effects, pedalboard integration, analog character.

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