Simple synth DIY
This page is intended as a list of simple but useful components that can be built for a modular synth.
If you're new to DIY electronics, please read the Synthesizer do it yourself page first.
This list of modules is intended to be format-agnostic (so, can be built for Eurorack, 4U, 5U etc.). Because of this, complete DIY kits are not included.
For more complex all-in-one synthesizer projects, see Category:Projects.
Simple passive circuits
Passive mult
Probably the easiest module to possibly build, all you need is some jacks, some wire, and a soldering iron. This module allows you to split a signal to be sent to multiple destinations. Passive mults are not suitable for V/octave CV control, because the voltage may drop when split, due to varying impedances in the destinations'
Schematics
- simply wire all jack tips together, and all barrels together. More complex designs can use switched jacks to split multiples into smaller sub-groups.
- AI synthesis have a schematic for a splitable passive multiple, as well as full PCB-based kits available.
Atari Punk Console
The Atari Punk Console is one of the simplest audio-generating circuits. There are CV-controllable versions available, however,they do not track voltage, and so are not suitable as melodic voices.
Schematics
- Voice of Saturn Synthesizer MK I, based on the APC and includes CV.
External links
General sources of schematics and layouts
- Electro-music Layout Factory has hundreds of strip-board layouts for various modules. The Schematics Vault also lists lots of schematics in one thread.