Title:

μModules: A Low-Cost, Eurorack-Compatible Modular Audio Synthesis System

The modular audio synthesizer is one of the fastest-growing industries in contemporary music technology. Unlike a traditional audio synthesizer, a modular synthesizer allows for the user to directly control the signal path and effects of the synthesized sound, allowing for a workflow that is completely customizable to an individual musician and their creative vision. However, the modules and cases currently in production for the common “Eurorack” design standard can be prohibitively expensive to new users, often costing thousands of dollars for even a small system. The µModules project aims to eliminate this financial barrier to modular synthesis by using inexpensive analog circuit design, commercially fabricated circuit boards, and a 3D-printed case design to achieve the full creative functionality of modular synthesis at a vastly reduced cost. The final µModules design is a complete modular synthesizer system with 7 module types, a power supply, and a fully-expandable case with a total materials cost of $281.56. µModules considerably lowers the financial barrier to entry of modular synthesis for musicians while retaining the creative benefits of modular, and the infinitely-expandable design allows the instrument to grow with a musician and their workflow.

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