20 minutes from class

 

VCV Rack Overview

In this session we explore the creative potential of modular synthesis with the free VCV Rack. Whether you're just starting or refining your skills, this session will take you through the techniques to craft dynamic, expressive, and evolving sounds for generative patches or live real-time modular performance (scroll down for example)

🎛 Modular Synthesis Basics – Understand signal flow, oscillators, filters, VCAs, and envelopes.
🔄 Generative & Evolving Patches – Build self-evolving systems using sequencers, probability, and modulation.
🥁 Designing a Modular Drum Machine – Synthesize unique percussion sounds and sequence expressive probabilistic rhythms.
🎚 Creative Modulation & Sound Shaping – Explore LFOs, randomization, and CV-controlled effects for deep sound design.
🎹 MIDI Mapping & Control – Play your patches using MIDI controllers for real-time performance.
🔀 Insert vs. Send FX – Learn how to set up effects routing for dynamic sound processing.
📹 Performing & Recording Patches – Capture audio and video directly from VCV Rack for live performance and content creation.
📦 Best Modules & Collections – Discover must-have modules and curated collections to expand your toolkit.
🛠 Essential Utility Modules – Learn about the key tools that streamline workflow and enhance creativity.

This workshop is open to all skill levels—whether you want to craft immersive textures, experimental beats, Techno compositions or generative soundscapes, you'll leave with new tools to shape your sonic identity.

 

Project from Class

A patch we made in class you can explore with three main sections, Drum sequencing using the Gate-SEQ-64, Basslines sequencing using the built-in SEQ 3 and generative Arp sequencing using Sample & Hold from Bogaudio.

 

Fixed Rack For Experimentation  

 

Another patch included in this session is a fixed rack for you to explore and experiment with. Fixed racks are great as they emulate the "limitation" of real world modular setups where you have your set modular synth case and you only play around with those modules. The example that is attached with the fixed rack is a generative patch with an added top lead sound you can play with your MIDI controller as shown in the video.

 

Drum Machine Patch

A patch to demonstrate drum sequencing and sound design.

 

Basic MIDI Voice

Great sounding mono voice!

 

Poly Voice

An example of a 4 voice poly synth

 

What's Included with this session

• 2+ hours of Ableton Certified Training Video
• VCV Rack Project from Class
• Fixed Rack
• Fixed Rack Example
• Starting Template
• Basic Voice Patch
• MIDI Voice Poly Patch
• PDF with a list of best Modules and Collections from the VCV Library

 

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ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

Yeuda Ben-Atar, a world renowned Ableton Certified Trainer, hails from Los Angeles, California. Originally from Israel, Yeuda’s passion for music led him to the United States, where he discovered his true calling with Ableton Live in 2007, embarking on a journey of mastery.

He approaches Ableton in a unique way; producing and performing with video game controllers under the moniker Side Brain.

One of Yeuda’s most remarkable qualities is his exceptional knowledge and speed, combined with his unparalleled ability to explain complex concepts in a simple and engaging manner.

With years of experience as a music production instructor and educator, Yeuda has contributed his expertise to prestigious institutions throughout the United States, including USC, UCLA, UCSD, Colburn Music School, Berkley School of Music, Cal Arts, NAMM, Skywalker Sounds, Bedrock LA, Sonos Studios, Sweetwater Headquarters, 1500 or Nothing studios, Grammy U, Pensado’s Place, Vintage King, Museum of Making Music, Lynda.com (now known as Linkedin Learning), and Perfect Circuit Audio, among many others.

His projects have included working with and teaching artists such as Timbaland, Ludacris, Lavel Kali(Beyonce, Drake) DJ Numark and Jurassic 5, Beck, Skrillex, Flying Lotus, Ed Sheeran, Rick Rubin, Giorgio Moroder, Simi, Bootie Brown (Pharcyde), Dave Pensado, Madison Mcferrin and countless others.