Melodio Patchbay
Guides & community
Guides for building synthesizers, Eurorack and electronics projects: from your first solder joint to your own modules.
New to Melodio, or new to modular synthesizers? Welcome! Melodio supplies the parts, components and power solutions you need to build your own Eurorack modules and cases. These guides help you find your way, whether you are building your very first case or designing your own circuits.
Getting started
- Getting Started with Modular Synthesizers – what a modular synth is, the Eurorack standard, the tools you need and where to learn more.
- VCV Rack: Free Virtual Modular – a free virtual Eurorack on your computer. Learn to patch before you buy or build anything.
- Configure Your Modular Synthesizer – system sizes from one voice to a full instrument, planning with ModularGrid, analog vs digital, and starting with a semi-modular.
- Patching Techniques – East Coast vs West Coast and the essential patches, with diagrams.
- Building a Eurorack Case – planning, materials and video builds to follow along with.
- Powering Your Case: Mean Well RT-65B + Bus Boards – step-by-step wiring, power budgets and safe testing.
- Make Your Own Eurorack Power Cables – ribbon cable, IDC connectors and crimping, step by step, plus how much you save.
Choose your learning path
Pick the route that fits you and read the guides in this order.
Completely new
You want to understand modular before spending money.
First DIY kit
You want to solder your own module.
First rack build
You want to build your own case and power.
Skills & knowledge
- How to Solder – through-hole vs SMD, tools, solder, flux, and how to desolder.
- Using a Multimeter & Testing Components – measure, troubleshoot and check whether parts still work.
- Repair Guides – common faults and video repairs, from broken jacks to vintage synths.
- Electronic Components Explained – the most common parts in synth circuits, how they work and when to use them.
- BOM: The Bill of Materials – read a parts list, order everything in one go and build with an interactive BOM.
- Recommended Books – modular synthesis, analog circuit design and microcontroller programming.
Inspiration
- Artists for Inspiration – musicians who work with modular synthesizers, with performance videos.
- Modular Synth Companies – meet the makers and look inside their workshops.
- DIY Builders & Educators – YouTubers who teach synth DIY and circuit design.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to know electronics to build a module?
No. Beginner kits come with step-by-step build guides, and all you need is the ability to solder and follow instructions carefully. How to Solder gets you started; Components Explained helps you recognise the parts.
How much does a first system cost?
It depends on the route. Trying modular in VCV Rack is free. A DIY case with rails and power from our shop starts at roughly €100–€150; modules cost about €100–€400 each ready-built, or less as a DIY kit. See the budget ranges on Getting Started.
Can I mix modules from different brands?
Yes, that is the whole idea of Eurorack: every module is 3U high, measured in HP (5.08 mm), powered by ±12 V and patched with 3.5 mm mono cables. Before you buy, check three things: the module depth, its current draw, and whether it uses a 10-pin or 16-pin power header.
Is it safe to build my own power supply?
The DC side (bus boards, ribbon cables) is low voltage and safe to work on. The mains side needs care: use an enclosed supply such as the MEAN WELL RT-65B, earth the case and follow the safety checklist on Powering Your Case. If you are not confident wiring mains, ask a qualified electrician to check your work.
Which patch cables do I need?
Eurorack uses 3.5 mm mono patch cables. A mix of short (15 cm) and medium (30 cm) patch cables covers most patches in a single row. See cable lengths on Patching Techniques.
I am stuck. Can you help?
Of course. Send us a message with a photo of both sides of your PCB and a description of the problem.
Can't find what you need? Get in touch – we're happy to help.
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Jack sockets for Eurorack modules
