Wiardgroup

What an awesome idea!  I'll get started on some Wavemakers format modules
right now.  We certainly can't have enough formats out there.  :-)

FWIW, there were three Wavemakers formats.  Only the first was a true
modular, 10 inch high panels and 2, 4, 6 or 8 inches wide.  These had light
gray/blue/beige panels, depending on what way the sun hits it and the blend
of paint they used that day.

The second generation Wavemaker 4 started the blue anodized look, but it was
an "integrated synthesizer."  In other words, the module selection was fixed
into one combination to make a "patch over hard wire" synth like an Arp
2600.  Bottom panels were 10 inches high and top row panels were 6 inches
high.

The third generation Wavemaker 6 was an Oberheim like SEM building block
approach but far more complex, with larger voice elements like sequencers,
control arrays and voice subsystems that provided sslected patch points.
Panels were 5 inches high by 24 inches across.

Even the knobs changed.  Early knobs were the common five vertex
communications style knob, later knobs were round knurled with silver
insets.  But I've seen the first generation modulars with the later
silver/black knobs.

Talk about format wars.  That was just one guy! :-)

But seriously, we could talk all day long about formats and not get
anywhere.  Like it not, the current formats are what we've got.  I'd love to
get all designs by Grant, Serge, Paul, Jurgen, et al in one format, but that
is not to be.

John Loffink
The Microtonal Synthesis Web Site
http://www.microtonal-synthesis.com
The Wavemakers Synthesizer Web Site
http://www.wavemakers-synth.com


> -----Original Message-----
> From: konkuro [mailto:konkuro@aol.com]
> 
> >I would agree that "large format" modules that use a lot of metal
> in construction are now too expensive to sustain. However, the
> "small format" modulars which use very little metal in
> construction seem to be doing all right. Every time I order a
> Blacet module, it shows up in three days.<
> 
> I don't think the money is in the panels.  It's the hand soldering
> that traditionally jacks prices up.  "Small format" modules such as
> Doepfer are cheap because they are outsourced and use a lot of
> machine insertion/soldering (I DROOL over the density of some
> Doepfer boards. It just amazes me).
> 
> Shun the Fracrack and shun it NOW. It is an obligation...nay, my
> SACRED DUTY to talk you out of the Fracrack format. There is much to
> admire about Blacet, but not the format, which is trancendentally
> horrid.
> 
> Visit the Wavemakers site if you have not done so already.  Now THAT
> is a lovely synth.  Azure dignity.  Or maybe the Modcan format is
> right for Wiard?  That would be nice too, and the banana jacks would
> be in keeping with the Buchloid West Coast gestalt.
>