Modular Synthesizers - understand. build. play.
Designing Your Own Sound and Music
1st Edition
Published on 30. April 2026
Book
Hardback
440 pages
978-3-911367-03-5 (ISBN)
Description
Modular Synthesizers - understand. build. play. is a practical and comprehensive introduction to modular synthesis for beginners and advanced users alike. Based on the successful German original and now published for the first time in English in an expanded and updated edition, the book explains the foundations of synthesis, sound design and music production in a clear and accessible way.
From harmonies, rhythms and signal flow to Eurorack basics, MIDI/CV, sequencing, effects, mixing and live performance, Heiner Kruse guides readers through the many creative possibilities of modular systems. More than a technical overview, this book shows how modular synthesizers can become expressive musical instruments for composition, performance and experimentation.
With over 230 illustrations, 440 pages and more than 250 software example patches and audio files, this all-round guide also explores electronic music history, genre aesthetics, studio workflows and example systems. English translation and editorial adaptation by Heiner Kruse and Jono Podmore.
More details
Edition
First English edition, expanded and updated
Language
English
Place of publication
Freiburg im Breisgau
Germany
Target group
Young adult
Adult education
This book is aimed at readers who want to understand, build and use modular synthesizers in a practical musical context. It is ideal for beginners looking for a structured introduction, as well as for advanced users who want to deepen their knowledge of synthesis, system design, sound design and modular workflows. With chapters on harmonies, rhythm, MIDI/CV, Eurorack, sequencing, effects, genres, mixing, live performance and example systems, it addresses musicians, producers, sound designers and electronic music enthusiasts alike.
Edition type
New edition
Illustrations
212
Dimensions
Height: 22.1 cm
Width: 15.3 cm
Thickness: 4.1 cm
ISBN-13
978-3-911367-03-5 (9783911367035)
Schweitzer Classification
Person
Author
Heiner Kruse has been composing and producing music since the 1990s plus writing, teaching, and conducting research. As an artist, mainly under the pseudonym The Green Man (TGM) and with his label Basswerk, he is constantly searching for new sounds and has become a sound design and synthesizer specialist. In this book, he brings together his experience, starting with the basics to cater for beginners and gradually moving on to explain complex musical and technical relationships in a clear and accessible way.