Today, I rebuilt Calypso. Which is my small modular build in the TNNG generation, housed in a NiftyCase.
Here’s what it looks like.
What is „Calypso“?
I don’t remember when I established that name, but at least during the TNG era for the big modular setup (read: monster cases), the logical choice to name the NiftyCase build was Calypso. And most of the time, it had been two independent synth voices, to also be used for Scream-Off (where I combine a drum machine and two monsynths with step sequencers for proto-techno/house sounds) or Chip Selectah (where I dive into video game music) activities.
At some point, I decided to let semi-modulars be just that (most of the time: a monolithic thing in its own case that just happens to have a lot of 1/8“ jacks) and removed the 0-Coast to return it to its original case. And filled the NiftyCase with a MFB Nanozwerg Pro and leftover modules. And left it there.
And months later, put a bunch of leftover modules into the Moog skiff. Which was just as well, as I had decided to get a Behringer Abacus (finally a Maths-like thing!) and Steps (with MI out of business, or rather converted to a wealth management operation, that’s the best you can do to double up on your stages).
Which didn’t make a lot of sense. So finally…
Calypso 2025
We stick with the Naonzwerg on the right, and retain the Disting (because a Disting never hurts). And from the last build, the Chipz oscillator (because it’s somewhat nice, except for when it’s not) and the VCF1/CV Mix combo by Erica (which make a nice team, as both violate Doepfer specs).And we add both Abacus and Steps.
What’s left space-wise? Not much. Just enough for a 2hp VCA (which you’ll need for a synth voice, unless you want to permanently employ Disting for it) and 2hp ADSR (because an ADSR would take up 4 stages of Stages, sorry, 4 Steps of Steps). Done!
What’s Next?
In part, learning Abacus/Maths. And maybe using that for a Screamoff as part of that collaboration I’m currently working on with an E-sports guy that also happens to do music (and accept my tuition).
Stay tuned!