Zlob Modular Diode Chaos Module Build
That’s A Zlob Modular Diode Chaos Module Kit ➡
& I’m Going To Build It.
Update: It’s the end of the year. I don’t have the time to build it this year. Hoping to find time early next year for it. I really want to get it built and in a patch. - Kev
Eurorack Modules Are Fun. Maybe I’ll Build One.
On Christmas 2022 I was graciously gifted Zlob Modular’s Diode Chaos module kit. It’s been sitting tucked away for the perfect day to build it, but that day keeps getting pushed off. Life happens, right?
Well it’s time I found my soldering iron and put this module together. I figured a public blog post about it would set this project in motion.
So, here we are, my very first post on this site. Pretty awesome. Let’s talk about building eurorack modules!
Wait, are you wondering what modular synths/eurorack is? That’s best to detail in another post dedicated to it. For now, let’s just say a modular synth is an electronic instrument used to make music and sound, that is made of a bunch of different components called modules that have different purposes, and those modules are connected by patch cables and in a few other ways.
Some Details About The Diode Chaos Module
My kit came from Amazon and cost about $50. It’s labeled as a beginner/intermediate build on Amazon. It appears to be a fairly straightforward build and I’m really excited to get started.
I just realized I don’t have room in my rack for it. No worries, I’m going to have to make some adjustments to my setup and swap out some modules. Or we’re gonna need a bigger case.
The Diode Chaos module is an analog chaotic low frequency voltage generator. It’s 3hp and 45mm deep. The current consumption is +12v: 10mA, -12v: 10mA.
If you want more details, definitely head to Zlob Modular’s product page about it. You should take a look around the site and check out their other modules while you’re there. Zlob is based out of Chicago and hand solders all of their modules, which is pretty awesome if you ask me.
You want to at least see how it works, right? Here’s a demo video of the module made by the legendary Todd Barton.
Demo video of Zlob Modular’s Chaos Diode module.
My Goals For The Build
I’m aiming to get you some photos and hopefully a video of the Diode Chaos build in the next post.
Building modules from kits is a great way to get started with modular. Kits are typically less expensive than fully assembled modules.
Hopefully this inspires you or somebody out there to give making noise with eurorack modules a shot. Cost can be a barrier to entry but you don’t have to give your money to some unethical company churning out cheap imitations of other makers’ hard work. There are a lot of ways to jump into the world of modular synths while saving your wallet and moral compass at the same time.
Moving on, I’ll get to work with the assembly soon and try to document the process. This is going to be fun.
I’ve ruined an overdrive guitar pedal kit once. I’ve also soldered an FM radio successfully from a kit more recently, so my chances of getting this module build right are decent.
My main goal is to successfully build this thing and show you the work soon.
Future Updates
As far as this blog thing goes, I don’t have a schedule or any solid plans. I just like creating things, and writing falls under that. I’m likely going to be writing about a lot of my different interests such as visual arts, video games, making music and working with sound, tutorials, and much more. I’m always hopping around creatively, so you can expect the unexpected.
I’d love to make this blog a regular thing if it meets some of the following criteria:
It has to be useful for other people.
I want to write about it.
I have the time to comfortably work on it.
This is a start and we’ll see where it goes.
Resources & Links
Here are some links for you future & contemporary music sorcerers:
If you have built this module, please share some photos and videos with me on the socials. I’d love to see your work. Be well and see you in the next post.
*Zlob Modular didn’t ask me to do this and hasn’t paid me to do this. I recommend buying directly from them before heading to Amazon. Support the makers!