MOTM

> 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.
> 

Actually, with Paul's new color scheme, these worries will be a thing
of the past!

In the meantime....

One thing that I've done is group modules by common use. It's great
to have the power of a modular, but I've found that I do use several bread and
butter modules in relatively standard groups, and others more as spice. That way 
your layout is optimized for how you use it most of the time.

For example, I almost always have a bass patch configured. This always includes at 
least an EG, VCO, VCF & an LFO. I've put these items together so I can use 1' patch 
chords for them and have minimal overlap between patches. This way I always know 
what knobs to tweak for the bass filter or envelope.

Another grouping is what I consider an effects group. This includes several filters, the 
sub-octave multiplexer, an Equinoxe, and a VCA. This makes it easy to patch other 
equipment into the modular, add some spice, and then patch it into arack. 

One other thing you'll want to consider is your overall patch flow.
Mine flows from left to right, because I've got my mixer to the right of the modular.
LFO's, UEG, the octave switcher go on the left. The "effects group" is on the right. 

This approach probably works better for using a modular to perform
standard musical roles than for more experimental music....