Red Dwarf modules - are they worth getting ?

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sonicstrav
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Post by sonicstrav »

I've thought about getting these to supplement Mod 3 and Flexor but looking at the list in John Bowen's site a lot look the same as the Mod III Modules -- how different are they to creamware ones or are some of them the same but with a different GUI for use with the Zarg Music synths ?
johnbowen
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Post by johnbowen »

Hi,

Let me address this - many of the RD modules are essentially the same as the core Creamware 'atoms', which is the same case as for the modular. However there are some extensions and additions that are not.

I think where the RD Modular usage becomes most helpful is if you want to quickly change the oscillator types or filter types without having the modules resident in a patch all the time (unfortunately, Flexor envelopes don't work with the RD Gate arrangement). You essentially can get a new 'patch' <b>per preset</b>, simply by using the RD Modular inserts with the RD modules.

The other thing I'd like to mention - if you have purchased the Flexor series, you can request a customised RD version of a Flexor oscillator or filter module from me, which you can then use like an RD module, i.e., replacing the oscillator type in your patch by using the RD Modular insert. (You have to have a valid Flexor key however, for these to work. Just send me an email, and I should be able to respond within a few days with it - no charge.)

The main thing with all of this (1) it allows you to use less DSP per patch, and (2) you can change basic elements per preset, instead of having to load a new patch to reconfigure things.

Maybe some other users (Ben?) could add their comments to this topic as well....

cheers,

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john bowen
zarg music

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interloper
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Post by interloper »

I got the modules as part of the Red Dwarf purchase. I have to admit that I haven't really tapped into the modules as of yet, but I also own the Ambient, Darkstar, Orion, Solaris, & the ProOne, and consider these to be on the forefront of synth development for Scope.

John continuously sets a new standard on this front and based upon my experience with the other devices, you can be assured that what you are getting is quality tools for your arsenal.

Yes, they are worth purchasing.
decimator
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Post by decimator »

I didn't try them ( yet ) in the modular.
They are a big + in Solaris, the synth you'll buy next ! :wink:
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interloper
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Post by interloper »

Yes, he's right. You'll really want the Solaris. It's my favorite of all.
hubird

Post by hubird »

Solaris is the allround killer... :smile:
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Ben Walker
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Post by Ben Walker »

Been meaning to reply for ages, but haven't had a chance.
I'd say the RD modules are a useful addition for any modder.
2 main reasons
1.) The CEM filters and Oscillator, and the VS Oscillators. You won't find these anywhere else and they are fantastic. These (CEM) are the Oscillators John used in his awesome Prophet recreations, and are not to be missed.

2.) As John mentioned, because the RD pack is not lots of individual Modular Modules, but a few modules which have the RD facility, it's like adding a new set of MultiOsc and MultiFilter modules, so in one patch you can easily change between oscillator/filters types using presets, using any of the RD modules. As many of the RD oscillators are available in 'double' versions, you can also add extra phat oscillator sections simply by choosing a new RD oscillator type - no need to build two Oscillator structures for this.

If you have any of the Zarg RD-compliant synths (or the SpaceF BlackBox) then the RD modules are a no-brainer. As far as their use in the Modular are concerned, I'd say that at that price, you'd be crazy not to.

Now that SpaceF's blackbox is out, I'm having a whole lot of fun using Zarg modules in the SpaceF synths and vice versa! These can also be used in the modular, and both are compliant with each other, so patches using the Zarg RD module can also load SpaceF Oscs, etc. The possibilities are endless!

Cheers,
Ben
hubird

Post by hubird »

wow! :smile:
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