So.. a quick background story (sorry): precisely a year ago a coworker mentioned
of this document called "I Dream of Wires". I watched it, and modular (and
semi-modular) synths were kind of a new thing for me (never having thought
about it much if encountered), and thought "Well that seems like fun!".
First I thought I'd make some small magnetic AVR based modules, but after diving
further into some analog stuff (MFOS at first), I realized I wanted to step
away from computers (=day job) for a while.
I ordered some MFOS PCB:s, and after realizing panel fabrication cost loads of
money and not having a workshop is a problem, I got a deal with a friend to
loan his garage for the summer. Armed with a hammer, small band saw,
a cheap drill press, some scrap 3mm aluminum sheets, paint and letter punches
(I didn't like the idea of printed and laminated panels), I got to work.
My plan was to make some MFOS panels that I could make the electronics for during
the winter, when I couldn't do any panel/metal work (city apartment).
While making the MFOS panels, I also discovered YuSynth, Ken Stone etc, and
hurriedly scrabbled more panels without thoroughly planning the bigger picture
while I had the change (I could always make more later if it was unbalanced, right?).
The quality really isn't that great (edges are not straight [band saw is not optimal...],
some of the paint chips off on harder hits, even when I used acid base primers
meant for aluminum, lettering is wonky...), and they are generally made in a hurry
and sloppy, but hey, it's just for my own use <3 (except of course borrowing to friends).
The lettering is done by hammering with letter punches, and painting the recesses
with a toothpick on top of the black base paint. Took many relaxing evenings
In the last days that I had the garage, I also built two 5U cases. Proper PSU,
power distribution and rails are still under construction, using lab power and
MFOS LM317/LM337 for now.
Currently around 15 of the 5U modules are built and tested (some require
further calibration).
And then, while soldering my 5U stuff, I discovered this EuroCrack-thing.
I got some PCB+panel -sets "For science" along with the 5U.
And it was fun
.
Then I got some more x).
Everything except for 3 modules in the Euro pictures are build and tested
during the autumn of 2016 (some require further calibration, few FETs and
non-TI 4046:s still to get, few DIY Vactrols to make).
I'm in the process of building a bigger and properly powered (HCC15-3-AG)
Euro case. I did hurriedly build two wall-ward powered 84HP cases from acrylic.
Oh, and of course I couldn't resist some monoliths (MFOS Sound Lab MKII, more in the making...) x)
Most of the PCB:s are bought, but since some of what I intend to build is /
has been out of stock (RIP Ray
), not sold at all, or I want some mods,
I learned to use KiCad and have made some of my own (private use only, not
selling). I'm also pondering a few own designs at some point in the distant
future.
It's been a fun year, and I'd reckon it wont's stop for a while. A big thanks to the whole DIY community!
Btw. I'm by no means a musician, I just enjoy drone, ambient and electronic noises.
