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Quick Start & Tuning Guide
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Bill of Materials
Capacitor and Resistor Lookup Guide
The DS-M is a full featured drum synth that can emulate virtually any drum sound!
The DS-M (Drum Synth Module) is a complex, modifiable, 100% analog drum synth loosely based on the Coron DS-8 and neatly packaged into an 8hp module.
Changes to the original DS-8 include:
– VCA-like trigger input (more voltage = louder output)
– Trimmer-adjustable attack
– LED trigger indicator
– 1v/o tracking (C0-C4)
– Triangle core oscillator
– Additional noise color switch setting (3 settings instead of 2)
– More distinct noise timbres
– Louder, improved noise circuit
– Really LOW bass frequencies
– Total range ~4Hz to 2.6kHz
In addition to being a highly versatile analog drum synth, this unit is also a fully functional monophonic synth that has these features:
– 1v/o tracking (C0-C4)
– Adjustable attack and decay envelope over the VCA
– Built-in LFO circuit
– Sweep circuit
– Noise circuit
Plug your control voltage and gate directly out of your midi-to-CV converter or connect your QuNexus keyboard, Arturia keyboard, or sequencer, and you’re ready to make some music!
Note: Complete units come pre-calibrated (according to the Synthrotek Deluxe Power Supply System). If you are building a kit or have a different power supply system, you will need to calibrate the 1v/o tracking using the DS-M calibration guide.
Specifications:
- Width: 8hp
- Depth: 1.75″ (44mm)
- Power connection: 10 Pin Keyed Eurorack
- Current Draw: +12V: 20mA, -12V: 10mA (5V not used)
DS-M in action!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pczEACwlSz8
I finished my build of a DS M module and am having a problem with the noise circuit. The middle position is very low volume. I checked the caps and all seem to be correct and oriented correctly. Without a schematic troubleshooting is a bit difficult. Any idea on what I should be looking at? Maybe a bad or misplaced resistor? Everything else on the module is working great and I am really enjoying the sounds so far.
Thanks
Hello,
I would definitely double check all the components for proper placement, following the Bill of materials. I would also check the headers between boards, as I’ve seen some cold solders there do some weird things.
You can also check our Troubleshooting Guide for some good tips on how to troubleshoot your build. Is all of the noise quiet, or just the middle switch position?
Best,
-Patrick at Synthrotek
Do you have the DS-M with a plain front panel so it is easier to see?
Hey Ray,
We have only one type of panel for the DS-M. We do sell blank panels in that size if you wanted to drill one out.
Good luck!
-Zach
hi.. i recently did a ds-m build and am having an issue where the vca bleeds through when the lfo rate or lfo amount pots are fully CW.. any ideas on where to check?
Hey Ian,
Sorry to hear there’s an issue with your DS-M build.
I would suggest sending over some pictures of your build as well some video/audio demonstrating the issue you’re having.
Send it to store@synthrotek.com and I should be able offer more concise feedback on your build.
But it sounds like we should have no problem figuring this out!
-Zach
Is the module velocity sensitive? In other words can you plug in a pad and get dynamics?
Hey Paul,
The “Trig” input is VCA-like: the output level increases when higher voltage triggers and gates are used. You’ll notice the LED get brighter as a higher voltage is used. Even if it’s just a normal gate and “accent,” you’ll get some neat results.
Thanks,
Michael
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