[sdiy] getting started...

[ryan]

> I need to get started with synth diy and there are a few things I want to
> buy and dont really know where to start...anyone want to recommend a nice
> beginners scope and multimeter?  Nothing fancy...just some stuff to get
the
> job done.  I bought a soldering station so I'm good there.

i'm just getting started as well so maybe someone else can answer better.
for multimeters, i think ebay is a good place. i just bought a new Fluke 73
series III for about $60 (they are much more at the store). its not the most
accurate meter and doesn't measure capacitance, but from what I've heard,
fluke is the way to go. ebay seems to have several fluke meter auctions
every day.
a good place to start is: http://www.synthtech.com/tutor/tutor1.html   it's
got reccomendations on scopes/meters and other tools to get you started.

> In the way of circuits...seems like there are too many to choose from...

My first project was Paia fatman. it was easy to build and only took a me a
few days.  I'd reccomend it as a first project.  It doesn't do all that
much, thats why i've decided to build a modular and am currently building my
first modules (an Oakley VCO and Multiladder). There is definently alot more
involved in building these modules than the fatman (power supply, cabinet or
case, etc..). I'm glad I build a kit as my first project. Oakley modules are
not too hard though, the users guides seem to cover just about everything.
Just that picking the right parts for the first one took me a long time. I
guess it all depends on your current electronics skill level.  I watched
this lists for about 6 months and spent many many hours reading different
sites before i felt capable of building my own modules and choosing what to
build. also, its alot cheaper to build a stand alone kit like the fatman.
I've already put about $450 into my modular and only have: power supply. 2
modules, and a kenton pro solo midi to cv.
some other ideas would be: the oakley 3031 (not a kit) or the ASM-1.

ryan...

> Thanks,
> Tim