Modular Starter Pack: 3 Tips for Entering the Modular World – Perfect Match
Everything Fits Together - Inspiration for Your Next Purchase
The modular starter pack: Today, we present three essential “building blocks” for beginning your journey into modular synthesis. If you’re interested in entering the world of Eurorack modular synthesis, you’re sure to find some inspiration here. It’s a perfect match.
All About the Modular Starter Pack – Perfect Match
What is a Modular Starter Pack?
In our “Perfect Match” series, we focus on three products from the world of music technology that we believe are a great fit for a specific task. Today, we’re talking about modular synthesis and, more specifically, how to put together your first Eurorack system. This modular starter pack is designed to provide immediate enjoyment and appeal to your creative side. However, we’ve also considered future expansion options.
As always, the goal of this series is to inspire you, so we will show a few alternatives. However, we can wholeheartedly recommend the products presented here. Let’s get started!
Semi-modular synths as an introduction to the world of modular synthesis
One of the most fascinating aspects of the modular world is the ability to create your own synthesizer (or even an effects box, among other things) from the many existing Eurorack modules. However, this huge selection does not exactly make it easy.
Before diving into this world, it’s better to start small. Instead of buying a Eurorack case and spending a lot of money on modules right away, approach the subject slowly. A semi-modular synthesizer, such as the East Beast or West Pest from Cre8Audio, is ideal for this purpose.
These small synthesizers familiarize you with the basic functions and introduce you to the world of modular synthesis. Semi-modular synthesizers like the East Beast and West Pest run independently but also allow you to familiarize yourself with patch connections. It’s a great fit to a modular starter pack.
These small synthesizers can also be installed in a real Eurorack case at any time. In this sense, semi-modular synths are an ideal starting point. While the East Beast is more traditional, the West Pest leans toward the West Coast style, allowing you to create more complex sounds.
These two synthesizers represent a wide range of semi-modular models. You can find more great recommendations in this purchase advisor. East Beast and West Pest are available from Thomann*.
Arturia Beatstep Pro: Sequencer and Clock Generator for Your Modular Starter Pack
Although the two semi-modular synthesizers we just recommended have built-in sequencers, hardware like the Arturia Beatstep Pro is still a worthwhile addition to your modular starer pack. The Beatstep Pro combines a MIDI controller and a step sequencer. It offers enough connections for larger setups and works well with a DAW.
You can use it to play rhythms and melodies, as well as connect various external equipment. In addition to a USB port, it has MIDI inputs and outputs, as well as clock inputs and outputs for synchronizing with hardware such as drum machines or grooveboxes. It also has outputs for CV signals. These are the standard ways of controlling various things in the world of modular synths.
For example, eight drum gate outputs can trigger drums, as well as effects, envelopes, LFOs, and much more. The two sequencer CV outputs each offer pitch, gate, and velocity outputs.
The Arturia Beatstep Pro features two independent monophonic step sequencers for playing melodies or basslines. The drum sequencer provides access to 16 individual sequencer tracks. This opens up a wide range of possibilities.
The Beatstep Pro is operated via 16 pressure-sensitive pads, 16 step pads, and eight touch-sensitive knobs. The Arturia Beatstep Pro is a powerful tool that remains easy to understand and offers added value and fun, not only as a modular starter package. You can get it here at Thomann*.
Arturia RackBrute 3U: The Modular Heart of Your Setup
The Arturia RackBrute 3U is more than just a Eurorack case. It’s the backbone of a modular starter pack that expands with each new patch cable. Designed with Arturia’s signature blend of practicality and durability, the RackBrute provides 88 HP of rack space in a sturdy aluminum frame and comes with a reliable power supply. Its construction is solid enough for studio use yet light enough for taking on stage. Its clever Link system allows direct integration with the Beatstep Pro, transforming it into a tightly connected modular workstation that inspires creativity.
What makes the RackBrute 3U special is how thoughtfully it balances form and function. Every detail, from the adjustable tilt angle to the secure transport mode, has been designed for real-world use. It’s clear that Arturia built this case as part of a creative workflow, not just as a shell for modules. The integrated power bus provides ample current for growing systems, and the smart layout keeps cables tidy and modules easily accessible. Whether you’re setting up a compact desktop or taking your first steps into the world of modular synthesis, the RackBrute 3U fits naturally into almost any environment.
With synths like the East Beast and West Pest from cre8audio, which can be built into the RackBrute 3U, it becomes the central hub of a powerful yet approachable modular starter pack. It encourages experimentation, invites expansion, and connects the hands-on control of analog gear with modern sequencing and performance possibilities. For those looking to build a modular rig that’s portable, expandable, and ready for creative exploration, the Arturia RackBrute 3U is the ideal foundation. Get it here at Thomann*.
Conclusion: This Trio is the Perfect Match!
This modular starter pack introduces you to the world of Eurorack and modular synthesis. It contains items that you will definitely not regret purchasing. A good place to start is with a semi-modular synthesizer, such as the cre8audio East Beast or West Pest. These models are fully functional on their own and offer enough possibilities for your first patch experiments. These small synthesizers are compatible with Eurorack and can be installed in a case.
The Arturia Beatstep Pro offers a combination of a sequencer and a MIDI controller, providing maximum flexibility. With USB, MIDI, clock, and CV/Gate connections, you can use the Beatstep Pro as a control center for a synthesizer setup or your DAW. You’ll also be well-equipped for future purchases.
In short, the Arturia RackBrute 3U is the perfect foundation for any modular starter pack. It’s compact, expandable, and performance-ready. It combines creative freedom with practical design, making it the perfect case for those starting or expanding their modular journey. In our opinion, this is the perfect match for a modular starter pack.
More Information
- The Best Semi-Modular Synths for your Studio Setup
- The Best Synths for Techno Productions in 2025: Powerful, Flexible and Creative
- Best West Coast Synthesizers for Cheap: West Coast on a Budget
- Perfect Match
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