Modular synths
Patch ready-made synth modules together with cables to shape sound, no soldering.
Modular synths
- To start
- $300
- Each month
- $40
- Time
- 3 hours a week
- Sessions
- 1 hour or more
- Where
- At home
- Who with
- On your own
Is it for you?
- It builds a collection you'll love curating.
- It's wide open for your own ideas.
- It gives your brain a proper workout.
- It asks almost nothing of your body.
You’ll like it if
- You want to build something of your own
- You want to get really good at something
- You want to express yourself
Maybe not if
- You want to spend very little to start
- You want to switch your brain off
- You want a workout
What it feels like
Modular synthsAverage performance hobbyCalm
Company
Physical effort
Creative freedom
Brainwork
Hands-on
Outdoors
Quick wins
$300Costs more to start than 93% of hobbies
$40Over a year, more than the kit
$780About $5 an hour at 3 hours a week
Before you buy
Borrow from a friend or buy second-hand first. Upgrade once you know you will keep going.
Your first session
Patch an oscillator through a filter on a semi-modular synth and get a simple sequence looping.
1 hour or moreAt homeFairly easy to start
Questions
How much does modular synths cost to start?
About $300 if you rent or borrow where people usually do, then about $40 a month once you are going.
How much time does modular synths take?
About 3 hours a week to enjoy it and get better, in sessions of 1 hour or more.
Can I do modular synths at home?
Yes. Needs a table or a corner.
Is modular synths good for beginners?
It takes a bit more setting up than most hobbies. A good first session: Patch an oscillator through a filter on a semi-modular synth and get a simple sequence looping.
Do I need other people for modular synths?
No. It works fine on your own.