Uploaded February 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
I’ve been getting a lot of Q’s lately about how to choose modules for a modular synth, so I wanted to share some tips here! 👇
First: if you’re curious about modular synthesis but aren’t ready to invest in hardware gear, check out VCV Rack (not sponsored!), a free virtual synth software that runs on your computer. It’s a great 1st step because it’s free & you can figure out your favorite types of modules & workflow before buying gear.
If you’re ready to jump into the hardware world, here are my top tips:
1) Start small: it’ll help cut through the overwhelm that often accompanies learning modular —when you focus on just 1 or 2 modules at a time, you can get to know them in a deeper way.
Plus, Eurorack modules are often WAY more versatile than folks realize! Filters can be sound sources, simple VCOs can be super chaotic depending on how they’re patched. Starting small can help you get so much more out of what you have.
2) Choose flexible sound sources (like complex oscillators, samplers, etc.)—there is no “right” 1st module to choose, but these will get you a lot of mileage!
3) Grow slowly—It’s tempting to fill your case quickly based on trends, but it can be much more rewarding to let your unique musical needs guide your growth.
4) Balance sound generation w/ control sources—modulation is really where modular synths come to life—& don’t forget about interaction! Keyboards, joysticks, touch plates, etc. can completely transform even just a few modules into a dynamic instrument.
As part of my class Learning Sound and Synthesis, I run a workshop all about planning your 1st modular synth. We go deep into YOUR unique musical goals & collaborate on the best setup for you—whether that’s hardware, virtual, or something hybrid!
The next round of LSS opens soon & I am SO excited to meet everyone!! Go to the link in my bio to join the waitlist so you are notified when enrollment opens—& to get my “Live Performance with Synths” training for FREE when you enroll as an earlybird.
Just a reminder: hardware synths are not required for LSS! All you need is a computer, wifi, & some curiosity 🙂
#modularsynth #eurorack #synthesizer #sounddesign #electronicmusic #synthesis
I’ve been getting a lot of Q’s lately about how to choose modules for a modular synth, so I wanted to share some tips here! 👇
First: if you’re curious about modular synthesis but aren’t ready to invest in hardware gear, check out VCV Rack (not sponsored!), a free virtual synth software that runs on your computer. It’s a great 1st step because it’s free & you can figure out your favorite types of modules & workflow before buying gear.
If you’re ready to jump into the hardware world, here are my top tips:
1) Start small: it’ll help cut through the overwhelm that often accompanies learning modular —when you focus on just 1 or 2 modules at a time, you can get to know them in a deeper way.
Plus, Eurorack modules are often WAY more versatile than folks realize! Filters can be sound sources, simple VCOs can be super chaotic depending on how they’re patched. Starting small can help you get so much more out of what you have.
2) Choose flexible sound sources (like complex oscillators, samplers, etc.)—there is no “right” 1st module to choose, but these will get you a lot of mileage!
3) Grow slowly—It’s tempting to fill your case quickly based on trends, but it can be much more rewarding to let your unique musical needs guide your growth.
4) Balance sound generation w/ control sources—modulation is really where modular synths come to life—& don’t forget about interaction! Keyboards, joysticks, touch plates, etc. can completely transform even just a few modules into a dynamic instrument.
As part of my class Learning Sound and Synthesis, I run a workshop all about planning your 1st modular synth. We go deep into YOUR unique musical goals & collaborate on the best setup for you—whether that’s hardware, virtual, or something hybrid!
The next round of LSS opens soon & I am SO excited to meet everyone!! Go to the link in my bio to join the waitlist so you are notified when enrollment opens—& to get my “Live Performance with Synths” training for FREE when you enroll as an earlybird.
Just a reminder: hardware synths are not required for LSS! All you need is a computer, wifi, & some curiosity 🙂
#modularsynth #eurorack #synthesizer #sounddesign #electronicmusic #synthesis
