MOTM

As I ponder module location for my new synth cabinets I felt compelled to 
canvass this list for ideas related to module location.  Each synth owner has a 
unique idea on what sort of sounds they want to make and probably locate 
modules according to those needs.  However, is there some sort of ergonomic "ideal" 
based on some well-thought plan?  It seems to me that modules that get patched 
often or tweaked a lot should be located closer than say, special effect 
modules.  I would put VCO, VCA, VCF, and envelope generators in the used/tweaked a 
lot category and ring modulators, sub-octave muxes, and so on in the "not 
used very often" category.  But is that really a workable arrangement?  (That 
already shows my bias… look I what I grouped into the "not used very often" 
category.  Others may gasp when they realize they use a ring modulator 'all the 
time'.  When I have one, a fixed filter bank will be front and center for me, 
whereas others may not even want one.  Like I said, 'different strokes' makes my 
query somewhat complicated to address.)

Modulars by definition can be reconfigured at-will and favored modules moved 
to locations formally held by lesser-used modules as the system grows.  But 
making changes can be painful!  Imagine if the controls in your automobile were 
"modular" and could be moved.  That sounds like a bad idea to me.  I want to 
instinctively reach for the needed control in my car without having to really 
think about it.  If one moves those controls, one has to pay close attention to 
anticipate the end result.  (Imagine flipping the left turn signal in your 
car, only to find out that you just engaged the parking brake - yikes!)  
Applying a similar logic to a modular synth, I want to start out with a module 
location that can be workable for many years.  Every time one moves a module they 
will have to relearn a portion of the user interface.  Maybe I'm just that dim, 
but I would rather carve out a comfortable "rut" and stay there.  (Or maybe 
I'm just too old to want to keep adapting to change… maybe an entropy sort of 
thing.)  Whatever the cause, I don't want to keep changing things in my system.  
Only when the layout is essentially fixed can my pea-brain learn to use the 
synth as an extension of myself in autopilot, rather than constantly fumbling 
around looking for a particular module location.

So how does one arrange modules such that over time, one spends more time 
making glorious noises and an ever-decreasing amount of time learning how to use 
the system?  Thank you in advance.

Cheers!
Tom Farrand

P.S. I did download the <A HREF="www.algoart.com">www.algoart.com</A> MOTM layout program to help with 
module placement... very useful but wish I could print what was created!

P.P.S  The "new MOTM color scheme" pushed the envelope for 'hideous' IMHO.