Tips for Recording Modular Synth

Much has changed with recording technology, but the fundamentals of recording remain the same. For example, running 0VU levels! For modular synth ideally you want to be running average levels of 0VU thru its internal chain of modules, outputting 0VU at its VCA, and hitting the A/D converter set to “line +4.” If you’re inserting gear between the VCA and A/D, like a preamp or compressor, then you want those units to be studio quality and also running 0VU levels.

The easiest way to muck things up in recording is by not paying attention to this rule. In modular, we can twist knobs, chain this into that, and end up driving modules in the chain at radically different gain structures, outside of their sweet spot. For example a MOTM-440 filter sounds fantastic, but it sound quite different with different settings of the input knob (which drives its filter)…and that driven filter is then outputting a higher level to the VCA…which in turn outputs hotter levels to the A/D converter (which can also show higher distortion at levels near to top of its range). Cranking up levels in general tends to yield higher distortion, lower dynamics, and a clogged up lower-midrange, which can become a problem in mixing. Establishing 0VU as the standard clears up a lot of problems before they happen.

Use studio quality cables throughout your modular synth (Neutrik connectors, Mogami cable, etc). Mogami makes flexible “3080 AES/EBU 110” which works great for patching. This “digital” cable works the same as analog cable, it’s just manufactured at higher specs. As far as wiring, your synth is unbalanced (2 wires) and your A/D input is balanced (three wires), but you can run this 3 wire “balanced” cable and ground the cold wire in the TS plug at your synth’s output. Or just use standard 2 wire instrument cable, that doesn’t matter, it’s just about using studio-quality (Mogami/Canare).

Finally, tune your synth before hitting record!