Music Thing Modular - Mini Drive
Product number:
100207
Product information "Music Thing Modular - Mini Drive"
The Mini Drive is a 4 HP Drive/Distortion module inspired by the classic Minimoog input gain. Mini Drive has two inputs which are higher and lower gain - but if you use both they’re the same level mixed. The Drive knob goes from zero/silent to lots of gain. It’s a dirty gain for modular level and works well with line level inputs – like a drum machine. It’s not suited as an external input for guitar.
Using this module is a great way to make a polite sound source into something less polite, but always experiment with the levels! - the output can sound completely different depending on the settings and it can also be used to just add a nice bit of warmth to your input.
Mini Drive also works very well in feedback loops. The classic minimoog trick is taking the audio output and adding it back after the oscillators, before the filter through this circuit. So the filter is in a feedback loop which will add resonance and fuzz. If you patch one output directly to an input then you can achieve feedback tones. Another idea is to patch sound (radio music, or a Osc/env/filt voice) into ‘low’ and one output to the main out. Then patch the second out to a filter, or a delay or reverb, and the output from that back into ‘high’ then turn up and add what happens. If the feedback isn’t wild, invert it with an attenuverter before going back into high.
While it doesn’t have CV in you can either put a VCA or a filter before to modify the amount of grime, or get more experimental and try blasting an LFO or a sequence into one input to see what it does to audio in the other input. the outputs are passive multed together.
DIY-Kit-Type:
SMD-Kit-1. This is a Do-It-Yourself kit, not an assembled module. The kit includes all parts to build the module. All SMD parts are pre-soldered, only trough-hole parts to solder. For build guide, more info, videos etc. please check the buttons below.
Using this module is a great way to make a polite sound source into something less polite, but always experiment with the levels! - the output can sound completely different depending on the settings and it can also be used to just add a nice bit of warmth to your input.
Mini Drive also works very well in feedback loops. The classic minimoog trick is taking the audio output and adding it back after the oscillators, before the filter through this circuit. So the filter is in a feedback loop which will add resonance and fuzz. If you patch one output directly to an input then you can achieve feedback tones. Another idea is to patch sound (radio music, or a Osc/env/filt voice) into ‘low’ and one output to the main out. Then patch the second out to a filter, or a delay or reverb, and the output from that back into ‘high’ then turn up and add what happens. If the feedback isn’t wild, invert it with an attenuverter before going back into high.
While it doesn’t have CV in you can either put a VCA or a filter before to modify the amount of grime, or get more experimental and try blasting an LFO or a sequence into one input to see what it does to audio in the other input. the outputs are passive multed together.
DIY-Kit-Type:
SMD-Kit-1. This is a Do-It-Yourself kit, not an assembled module. The kit includes all parts to build the module. All SMD parts are pre-soldered, only trough-hole parts to solder. For build guide, more info, videos etc. please check the buttons below.
| Current draw +12 V [mA]: | 39 |
|---|---|
| DIY Level: | Easy |
| Depth [mm]: | 25 |
| Width [HP]: | 4 |
| Format: | 3U |
| Panel / Color: | Black FR4 |
Manufacturer / Hersteller:
Thonk Ltd.
New England House
BN1 4GH Brighton
UK
support@thonk.co.uk
EU responsible:
Tech Creation Lab Leipzig UG (haftungsbeschränkt)
Nonnenstrasse 19
04229 Leipzig, Germany
support@exploding-shed.com
WEEE-Nr.: DE94097895
Product Safety Information
Eurorack DIY Kits
Important Notice & Intended Use
Please read this safety guide before installation or use. This kit is intended for adult users experienced in electronics and modular synthesis. Assembly, including soldering, is required. Proper testing and installation are essential to ensure safe and functional operation. The completed module is intended for installation in a Eurorack-compatible synthesizer system powered by ±12V and +5V.
General Warnings
1. Electrical Hazards:
• Ensure the power supply matches the module’s specified voltage and current ratings (refer to the product manual). Incorrect voltage can damage the module and pose a safety risk.
• Never connect or disconnect the module while the Eurorack system is powered on.
• Wrong polarity can damage your module or system. Make sure the module is connected with correct polarity.
2. Heat Generation:
• The module may generate heat during operation. Ensure proper ventilation within your Eurorack case to prevent overheating.
3. Sharp Edges:
• The module’s faceplate and components may have sharp edges. Handle with care to avoid cuts or scratches.
4. Small Parts:
• Contains small parts that could cause a choking hazard. Keep away from children and pets.
5. Compatibility:
• This module is designed specifically for Eurorack-compatible systems. Connecting it to non-compatible systems may result in damage or malfunction.
Assembly Requirements
• Soldering skills are required to complete the module.
• Ensure a clean, well-lit and ventilated workspace free of flammable materials during assembly.
• Use appropriate tools and safety equipment, such as eye protection.
Testing
• Test the module thoroughly for shorts or incorrect assembly before powering it in your Eurorack system. When the unit has malfunctions due to incorrect assembly, the entire Eurorack system might be damaged. It's a good idea to test it in a separate case with only that single module.
• Use a multimeter or other appropriate tools to confirm proper functionality.
Installation and Use
• Mount securely in a Eurorack case using the provided screws.
• Use only the included or manufacturer-recommended power cable.
• Connect only when the power is off.
• Follow the module's user guide for instructions on operation. Do not exceed the input/output limits specified.
Responsibility
Users are solely responsible for proper assembly and testing. Contact manufacturer support for assistance if needed.
Environmental Safety
• Dispose of the module, its components, and packaging in accordance with local electronic waste regulations.
Liability Disclaimer
• The manufacturer or distributor is not responsible for any injury, damage, or malfunction resulting from improper installation, use, or modification of this product.
Contact Information
For further assistance, contact the manufacturer (you'll find the info under each product in our shop) or our shop support team at:
Tech Creation Lab Leipzig UG (haftungsbeschränkt)
Nonnenstrasse 19, 04229 Leipzig, Germany
support@exploding-shed.com
Thonk Ltd.
New England House
BN1 4GH Brighton
UK
support@thonk.co.uk
EU responsible:
Tech Creation Lab Leipzig UG (haftungsbeschränkt)
Nonnenstrasse 19
04229 Leipzig, Germany
support@exploding-shed.com
WEEE-Nr.: DE94097895
Product Safety Information
Eurorack DIY Kits
Important Notice & Intended Use
Please read this safety guide before installation or use. This kit is intended for adult users experienced in electronics and modular synthesis. Assembly, including soldering, is required. Proper testing and installation are essential to ensure safe and functional operation. The completed module is intended for installation in a Eurorack-compatible synthesizer system powered by ±12V and +5V.
General Warnings
1. Electrical Hazards:
• Ensure the power supply matches the module’s specified voltage and current ratings (refer to the product manual). Incorrect voltage can damage the module and pose a safety risk.
• Never connect or disconnect the module while the Eurorack system is powered on.
• Wrong polarity can damage your module or system. Make sure the module is connected with correct polarity.
2. Heat Generation:
• The module may generate heat during operation. Ensure proper ventilation within your Eurorack case to prevent overheating.
3. Sharp Edges:
• The module’s faceplate and components may have sharp edges. Handle with care to avoid cuts or scratches.
4. Small Parts:
• Contains small parts that could cause a choking hazard. Keep away from children and pets.
5. Compatibility:
• This module is designed specifically for Eurorack-compatible systems. Connecting it to non-compatible systems may result in damage or malfunction.
Assembly Requirements
• Soldering skills are required to complete the module.
• Ensure a clean, well-lit and ventilated workspace free of flammable materials during assembly.
• Use appropriate tools and safety equipment, such as eye protection.
Testing
• Test the module thoroughly for shorts or incorrect assembly before powering it in your Eurorack system. When the unit has malfunctions due to incorrect assembly, the entire Eurorack system might be damaged. It's a good idea to test it in a separate case with only that single module.
• Use a multimeter or other appropriate tools to confirm proper functionality.
Installation and Use
• Mount securely in a Eurorack case using the provided screws.
• Use only the included or manufacturer-recommended power cable.
• Connect only when the power is off.
• Follow the module's user guide for instructions on operation. Do not exceed the input/output limits specified.
Responsibility
Users are solely responsible for proper assembly and testing. Contact manufacturer support for assistance if needed.
Environmental Safety
• Dispose of the module, its components, and packaging in accordance with local electronic waste regulations.
Liability Disclaimer
• The manufacturer or distributor is not responsible for any injury, damage, or malfunction resulting from improper installation, use, or modification of this product.
Contact Information
For further assistance, contact the manufacturer (you'll find the info under each product in our shop) or our shop support team at:
Tech Creation Lab Leipzig UG (haftungsbeschränkt)
Nonnenstrasse 19, 04229 Leipzig, Germany
support@exploding-shed.com
Manufacturer "Music Thing Modular"
Eurorack Modular Synth format. They are designed in Herne Hill, London by Tom Whitwell.
I’m a former journalist and magazine editor (Mixmag & The Face). In the noughties I ran the Music Thing blog, before working at The Times. Got into DIY electronics after attending a workshop with Tom Bugs, reading Handmade Electronic Music, playing with Arduino and building guitar pedals.
Contacting me directly is rarely a quick way to get help with a project or a technical problem. GitHub issue lists are a good place to start (Turing Machine, Radio Music), a search of MW DIY will often find answers, as will looking at the Facebook Synth DIY group.
You can read more about Music Thing Modular and open source in this article: Why Open Source Music Hardware works for Music Thing Modular.
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