Tindie
PMFoundations
Overall Rating:
All Reviews
Dmitri | Sept. 12, 2019
An outstanding envelope generator with full CV over adsr
For State Machine (Eurorack PCB Set)
TLDR: Pcb and panel kits for eurorack EGs that have cv control over each segment of the envelope are surprisingly hard to find. Other manufacturers’ designs either don’t provide a full 4 stage envelope, or use expensive and hard to source slider pots. Not only was this a fun build, but it’s a very useful and usable module, and it looks cool too 😎
I made a pledge to myself about six months ago when my modular obsession started to get a bit out of hand: no more pre-built modules. I would only build, and as I built I would replace the functionality of my pre-builts and sell those pieces off. The one type of module that has long stymied me in this is the cv controlled envelope generator.
Having this kind of control allows you to use any voltage source to inject semi-random or evolving elements into a patch. It’s highly useful for designing pads and ambient effects. It’s probably some of the best fun you can have with a synth.
The gates per segment are very useful for, say, building out larger structures in a patch, or as an erratic clock. You can use them to trigger other envelopes or to trigger the module itself. Or both.
The loop function provides a more usable wave than some of the other EGs with the same function I’ve built, part of which is down to the shape of the attack portion of the envelope as it plays out over the turn of the pot, but part of it is how fast this will oscillate. Sequencing different envelope segment CV ins while feeding a VCO 1v/o from this module looping very fast provides some very interesting blips and bloops indeed. Like I said: a lot of fun is possible here.
One thing I have to caution about: definitely read the build guide closely and keep it handy when you build. This project has some tricky assembly order stuff with the jacks and the plastic latching switches that can get you into some trouble if you stuff the board in the wrong order, like I did. I have a steady hand and some nice fine iron tips so I got everything in without melting any switches, but it could very easily have gone wrong.
Also I have to mention the panel, it’s this rich red pcb. I actually like pcb panels, some people don’t, I do. The pictures don’t really do it justice. Honestly I love this module and this designer, and I’m looking forward to putting together more of his stuff.
I made a pledge to myself about six months ago when my modular obsession started to get a bit out of hand: no more pre-built modules. I would only build, and as I built I would replace the functionality of my pre-builts and sell those pieces off. The one type of module that has long stymied me in this is the cv controlled envelope generator.
Having this kind of control allows you to use any voltage source to inject semi-random or evolving elements into a patch. It’s highly useful for designing pads and ambient effects. It’s probably some of the best fun you can have with a synth.
The gates per segment are very useful for, say, building out larger structures in a patch, or as an erratic clock. You can use them to trigger other envelopes or to trigger the module itself. Or both.
The loop function provides a more usable wave than some of the other EGs with the same function I’ve built, part of which is down to the shape of the attack portion of the envelope as it plays out over the turn of the pot, but part of it is how fast this will oscillate. Sequencing different envelope segment CV ins while feeding a VCO 1v/o from this module looping very fast provides some very interesting blips and bloops indeed. Like I said: a lot of fun is possible here.
One thing I have to caution about: definitely read the build guide closely and keep it handy when you build. This project has some tricky assembly order stuff with the jacks and the plastic latching switches that can get you into some trouble if you stuff the board in the wrong order, like I did. I have a steady hand and some nice fine iron tips so I got everything in without melting any switches, but it could very easily have gone wrong.
Also I have to mention the panel, it’s this rich red pcb. I actually like pcb panels, some people don’t, I do. The pictures don’t really do it justice. Honestly I love this module and this designer, and I’m looking forward to putting together more of his stuff.
Costantino | July 19, 2019
My second DIY module
For ADSR-D Envelope Generator (Eurorack PCB Set)
I just started building my own DIY modular synth and this was my second module I made.
Easy to build and very powerfull! The right project to start!
I have not yet understood well the function of the ADSD mode and the trigger Input, but, since it is only recently that I started playing with analogue synths, I still have to do a lot of practice to fully understand how they works!
Easy to build and very powerfull! The right project to start!
I have not yet understood well the function of the ADSD mode and the trigger Input, but, since it is only recently that I started playing with analogue synths, I still have to do a lot of practice to fully understand how they works!
Response from PMFoundations | July 19, 2019
Thank you for your kind words Constantino. If you need any help understanding the module and modular synthesis in general, just let me know.
Denis | June 15, 2019
Very easy build, documentation is ok for building only.
For Voltage controlled sequential switch (PCB Set)
Wish there was a schematic available in the documentation . I had one issue - could not select the 4th step via the pot worked out I needed to change the value of R13 from 1K8 down to 1K5 the voltage reference U1 was giving 4.99 volts so after the voltage divider I was only getting 3.69 volts changing R13 brought that up to 3.85 volts which seems to work consistently now. overall a good module I would recommend !
Response from PMFoundations | Aug. 13, 2019
Thank you Denis. This is a very good observation. I checked the prototype and the reference is 5.02V so if it was much less than this it would upset the thresholds for the window comparators that set the steps and the final one was not being reached on your example. I will update the documentation to take this into account.
Georgi | May 17, 2019
Great quality!
For Micro VCO/LFO (Eurorack PCB Set)
The PCB and the panel both look amazing and I'm eager to assemble it soon! Recommended for starting simple eurorack DIY synth! Thanks!
EDIT: Managed to build it, but took me a while to figure out how to tune it, now it sounds amazing even with no perfectly matched transistors it tracks very well! Although more detailed tuning procedure documentation or a simple diagram/schematic of tuning circuit will be much appreciated! Thanks again!
EDIT: Managed to build it, but took me a while to figure out how to tune it, now it sounds amazing even with no perfectly matched transistors it tracks very well! Although more detailed tuning procedure documentation or a simple diagram/schematic of tuning circuit will be much appreciated! Thanks again!
Response from PMFoundations | June 11, 2019
Thank you for your kind words Georgi. I see you have a couple more modules on the way. I hope you like them as well.
Randy | May 14, 2019
Nice vintage-style EG
For ADSR-D Envelope Generator (Eurorack PCB Set)
This is an easy-to-build envelope generator for people who are looking to duplicate the functionality of vintage synths such as an Oberheim SEM or MiniMoog. It can act as a 3-stage EG, as those two synths have, or a 4-stage. It's a great part of a vintage-sounding Eurorack setup. Combine this with a pair of 8080 VCOs and a 3080 VCF and you're on your way to coming very close to the sound of an SEM.
Randy | April 23, 2019
Great vintage-based VCF
For 3080 VCF (Eurorack PCB Set)
Very nice multi-response filter based on a vintage module that has the initials S.E.M. designed by someone with the initials T.O. This one can be built to respond like the original, without self-resonance, or a bit more modern with self-resonance. Either way, great-sounding and a good addition to any rack. I have two so far, and another on the way.
I have 22 modules currently in my racks from PMF, with a few still on the bench and more on the way. So I'm happy with their modules.
I have 22 modules currently in my racks from PMF, with a few still on the bench and more on the way. So I'm happy with their modules.
Randy | April 23, 2019
Very interesting envelope / function generator
For State Machine (Eurorack PCB Set)
This is a really interesting module, capable of complex envelopes and cool interactions with other modules. It can act as a regular 4 stage EG, with linear or exponential responses, it can change the state of its stages based on CV inputs, it can loop and act as an modulation generator, it can trigger other actions at multiple times and in multiple ways, and it can even act as a percussion trigger generator.
I have this one sitting with my function generators and modulation generators instead of with my envelope generators.
I have this one sitting with my function generators and modulation generators instead of with my envelope generators.
Randy | April 23, 2019
Tribute to a classic and another great VCO
For 8080 VCO (Eurorack PCB Set)
Compact VCO but not too compact, controls are comfortably-spaced. Nice set of features, great sync and, hopefully I can mention this, a tribute to the VCOs on the classic Oberheim SEM.
Response from PMFoundations | April 23, 2019
Well, who do we have to thank for the comfortably spaced controls?
Randy | April 23, 2019
Love the sync on this one
For 6080 VCO (Eurorack PCB Set)
Very nice VCO, particularly like the sync, some great sounds available. I look at this one as a souped-up 3080 (I have 3 3080s in various racks).
Response from PMFoundations | April 23, 2019
Judging by that video, it looks like you know how to play it too!
Randy | April 23, 2019
Great envelope generator
This one is very handy, a classic 4-stage EG but with the addition of voltage control over the stages, gate or trigger inputs and linear or exponential response. Definitely worth having one or two in the rack.
Joseph | March 27, 2019
Fun build, great sequencer! Totally recommend!
For Synthola Sequencer (Eurorack PCB Set)
I have now built quite a few PM Foundation kits. I have a decent amount of eruorack gear and combine this with a Behringer Neutron. With all of that said, I really wanted something that had a CV out for various uses. This little bad boy, while only having 8 steps, is exactly what I needed. I love the speed control and the glide as well. I use it almost exclusively for CV control on my filters, but also from time to time use it on my 3080 oscillators. It was pretty easy to build (its all pin through, so soldering is easy). The directions are, as always, excellent. One note: Take your time when soldering the pots, switches, and jacks. If you do them in the wrong order you will have a hard time doing the other items. I saw this when looking at the board and didn't have any issues.. just saying to be careful. I bought the pre programmed EEProm. Definitely worth it. I'm debating getting one of the expander modules or maybe just a 2nd one. Definitely worth the cost. I recommend these kits to everyone I know who is interested.
Eero | Feb. 26, 2019
Works as promised
For Clock Divider (Eurorack PCB set)
PMFoundations helped me in sourcing the parts from a vendor of my choosing. Documentation is adequate and the unit works as expected. I'm very satisfied with the purchase.
Daniel | Feb. 14, 2019
Super inexpensive and works well
For ADSR Envelope Shaper (Eurorack PCB Set)
With the price of eurorack modules averaging well over $200 each, it is silly not to build your own if you have even modest soldering skills. I highly recommend PM Foundations modules as one of, if not the cheapest DIY eurorack synthesizer option out there. For a $15 pcb and panel, $10 worth of parts, maybe 2 hours of time, I have a well functioning ADSR that was a snap to build. Worked first time it was plugged in. Calibration took all of 5 minutes.
If you're in the market for eurorack modules, you owe it to yourself to check out the PM Foundations line here on Tindie first. I wish I had discovered them sooner.
If you're in the market for eurorack modules, you owe it to yourself to check out the PM Foundations line here on Tindie first. I wish I had discovered them sooner.
Joseph | Feb. 11, 2019
I have two of these now. They're easy and fun kits to build
For Dual VCA (Eurorack PCB Set)
I have two of these units now and after doing the calibration setup they work great! They're pretty fast acting and can work well for percussion, although most of my stuff isn't percussive. I'd recommend these kits to anyone who is interested in DIY modular but not real familiar with soldering. Just make sure you take your time and follow the directions carefully.
Joseph | Feb. 11, 2019
Awesome units for the money! Great flexibility!
For State Machine (Eurorack PCB Set)
I have two of these units. I can say that once you're done with them that you'll be happy you built them. The calibration is very easy for them. The outputs are very unique and I often times use them to add some sort of effect or filter change when you hit steady state or release. At any respect, I have yet to find a comparable module anywhere. No eurorack setup is complete without one! With the positives being said, these do take some time to build. There are alot of resistors. The first one took my 6 hours to build. I have about 30 years of experience soldering and the issue was simply that there are alot of parts. They're not hard to assemble and the instructions are great. But the time spent is well worth it. Just be patient, take your time, and follow the instructions closely. I highly recommend them.
Dan | Jan. 7, 2019
A quick and easy mixer
For My Little Mixer (Eurorack PCB Set)
Worked first time I plugged it in. The build only took a leisurely two hours. I just use a small, long nose soldering iron and tweezers to solder the SMD parts. Very easy and works like a champ. I built the version without front panel switches and just use the pins with pc jumpers to change between DC/AC signals.
Dan | Jan. 7, 2019
Does the trick for my Make Noise Bermuda VCO
For Saw Shaper (Eurorack PCB Set)
My Bermuda only outputs Tri, Sine and Pulse, so I needed this module to get Saw. The sound is good but on my oscilloscope I noticed the amplitude of every other positive peak is only about 66% of the Ramp peak ahead of it. Could be my cheapo oscilloscope or I didn't nail the calibration. Again, to my ears, it sounds every bit of a saw wave so I haven't bothered to mess with it more. I suppose if I ever want to use it for modulation, that could be an issue....or a great new feature. :-D
I noticed a discrepancy between the FET specified in the BOM (2N5457) vs. what is in the Mouser shopping cart (PF5102). Specs between these 2 parts are quite far apart. Either that's a slip or the application is not critical? I actually used a 2N5458 in mine.
I noticed a discrepancy between the FET specified in the BOM (2N5457) vs. what is in the Mouser shopping cart (PF5102). Specs between these 2 parts are quite far apart. Either that's a slip or the application is not critical? I actually used a 2N5458 in mine.
Response from PMFoundations | Jan. 7, 2019
Thank you Dan for your review. It does sound like a calibration issue (R26 Ramp Trimmer) but if you are happy with the sound then there is no reason to change it. It is still rich in harmonics like a saw wave. I have changed the Mouser cart from time to time due to the fluctuating price and availability of various FETs. In any event the most economical solution is the SMD part MMBF5457.
Vidar | Dec. 20, 2018
Had this for a year now and I still love it.
For 3080 VCO (Eurorack PCB Set)
This was my first eurorack module and the first time I soldered anything else than guitar leads. Got it working on the first try and been building modules since. The soldering I did is probably pretty crappy and and the panel would be easier to mount if I knew what i was doing, but it was FUN. Got a ca3080 reissue six months ago and it sounded even better. It'll always be my favourite modul. Would really recommend using T18 potentiometers if you are sourcing your own parts, since the micro knobs from thonk (Befaco style) are kinda mandatory if you are suffering from sausage fingers like I do. Would also skip the right angled 16-pin header and use a straight one, might not be ideal since it'll be a little wider, but I doubt it will ever come down to the few extra millimeters the straight header adds. I use Tip Top Z-Ears and this module is just slightly too deep with right angled headers. It would make contact with the surface, alway applying little bit of pressure before I changed it.
Response from PMFoundations | Dec. 20, 2018
Takk Vidar for din anmeldelse og for å gi kundene noen nyttige tips. 3080-VCO er ikke den grunne av moduler, men er definitivt ikke en HP hog.
(Thank you Vidar for your review and for providing customers with some useful tips. The 3080-VCO is not the shallowest of modules but is definitely not an HP hog.)
(Thank you Vidar for your review and for providing customers with some useful tips. The 3080-VCO is not the shallowest of modules but is definitely not an HP hog.)
Jason | Sept. 23, 2018
Highly recommend
For Dual VCA (Eurorack PCB Set)
First thing I have ordered from Tindie. The seller answered all my questions and sent the order within a day. Items arrived quickly without any problems. Both the boards and panels look good quality but I am yet to put them together as I am waiting on parts.
All in all very happy.
All in all very happy.
Randy | Aug. 28, 2018
Cool, inexpensive, handy
For Toggle (PCB Set)
This is quite a cool little module. Easy build, inexpensive and works great. Had lots of fun clocking it with a function generator instead of a regular clock or LFO.
Philip | July 25, 2018
Great value for midi to CV
For 8 Voice MIDI-USB Controller (Eurorack PCB Set)
This is a well designed midi to control voltage unit.
The build isn't overly complicated, but requires some patience to get the boards and jacks aligned properly so that they fit into the face plate. Once assembled mine worked.
I don't have one of the recommended keyboards, but it seems to work with my minibrute - I haven't tried switching modes yet, which requires a midi source that sends volume out.
My mouser order was about $95 before shipping, so this module represents a fantastic value for a midi-cv interface - the befaco kit is about the same amount, but you get twice the number of cv and gates with the pmfoundations module.
The build isn't overly complicated, but requires some patience to get the boards and jacks aligned properly so that they fit into the face plate. Once assembled mine worked.
I don't have one of the recommended keyboards, but it seems to work with my minibrute - I haven't tried switching modes yet, which requires a midi source that sends volume out.
My mouser order was about $95 before shipping, so this module represents a fantastic value for a midi-cv interface - the befaco kit is about the same amount, but you get twice the number of cv and gates with the pmfoundations module.
Response from PMFoundations | July 25, 2018
Thanks for sharing your experience Philip. It is not the easiest build and I am glad to hear that you battled through the intricacies to get a nice 8 channel polyphonic keyboard controller. If you want to try out the mode switching/programming side of it with the Arturia MiniBrute, please email me at jnfrench@pmfoundations.com. I have some ideas for you.
Ralphy | July 12, 2018
Great, easy to build oscillator!
For 3080 VCO (Eurorack PCB Set)
Just finished my build and can say it was pretty straight forward and just took a day to build.Will definitely buy again.
Brad | July 6, 2018
Works great
For ADSR Envelope Shaper (Eurorack PCB Set)
Another fun and easy to build module that worked on the first try. Would buy again without hesitation!
Brad | June 25, 2018
Great product
For Dual VCA (Eurorack PCB Set)
This Dual VCA was a fun build with easy to follow instructions. It worked great with no problems. If I was building a bigger eurorack, I wouldn't hesitate to buy and build another one of these modules.
Dayne | June 22, 2018
Great space saver VCO!
For Micro VCO/LFO (Eurorack PCB Set)
This little VCO is awesome! It barely takes up any space in my rack, and tracks wonderfully. At first I had issues with tracking, and after e-mailing for support (which resulted in near instant response with help) I realized it was probably hardware related. Turns out the mystery origin 2n3906's were at fault. I matched up a set from a known good supplier, swapped them in and the tracking is wonderful. I can't wait to build some more modules from PMF!
Tucker | June 16, 2018
Perfect addition to any rack.
For ADSR Envelope Shaper (Eurorack PCB Set)
This is a great little envelope generator and is a perfect addition to any rack. One can never have too many ADSR's. Top notch documentation and a great PCB and panel layout.
Tucker | June 16, 2018
Awesome, compact, DUAL!!!
For Dual VCA (Eurorack PCB Set)
This VCA, as all modules from PMFoundations, is of incredible use, and comes in such a tiny package! Great PCB and panel layout and excellent build documentation. I will definitely be doing business with PMFoundations again in the future.
Tom | June 9, 2018
Stellar!
For ADSR Envelope Shaper (Eurorack PCB Set)
When it comes to simple DIY modules, these are simply the best. The design is easy and compact and works without any strange behavior. Perfect for someone just starting to build from PCBs and not just full kits. Arrived in only 2 days as well! Thanks!
Callum | June 7, 2018
Bang for your HP
For Micro VCO/LFO (Eurorack PCB Set)
Once again, lovely stuff. Tracks nicely and great for fitting in extra voices into already crowded rack.
Callum | June 7, 2018
Does what it says on the tin
For Clock Generator (Eurorack PCB Set)
Great little module to lock your system an to get those LEDs blinking. Easy to source components and a great price.
Callum | June 7, 2018
Great value
For ADSR Envelope Shaper (Eurorack PCB Set)
Echoing the previous reviews, this is a great, compact ADSR with thorough documentation, easy to source parts and a straight forward build. Will be back for more
Kane | May 28, 2018
A joy to build
For Clock Divider (Eurorack PCB set)
Apart from the expensive switchcraft jacks used, this entire build is a pleasure.
The only advice Id offer the vendor is that the explanation and BOM around the resistor and capacitor values is quite confusing and I had to read it several times before I was confident.
The only advice Id offer the vendor is that the explanation and BOM around the resistor and capacitor values is quite confusing and I had to read it several times before I was confident.
Response from PMFoundations | May 29, 2018
Thank you for your review. The jacks ARE expensive at Mouser. You can try other sources here: https://octopart.com/search?q=35rapc2av&oq=35rap&start=0. I have considered using other types but have had reports of them getting sloppy over time so I think you will be pleased with the performance of the Switchcrafts over time. Sorry about the confusion with the resistor options. Do you have a better way of wording this that I can incorporate into the documentation? If so, please let me know at admin@personalcircuits.com.
Callum | May 7, 2018
Top shelf
For Fatkeys™ VCF (Eurorack PCB Set)
Sounds great and very affordable. The build doc is very clear and I thought the option for either IC package was a great idea.
Response from PMFoundations | May 7, 2018
Thanks Callum. I am glad you like the filter. Your soldering skills must be top notch to get that SSOP Package in!
Quinn | April 19, 2018
Awesome Sounding Filter
For 2Q12 VCF (Eurorack PCB Set)
This filter is awesome, after seeing some of the demos i was hooked. Now actually having the filter its even better, the resonance has so many sweet spots, and having 3 cvs for the resonance is really handy. I did have a problem with the resonance when i first built, but with the help from John it turned out i had the resonance calibrated improperly. He was a great help and responded very fast, I cant say enough of how satisfied i am with this product and business.
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