As an experienced musician with a background in piano and various electronic instruments, I’ve found myself captivated by the endless possibilities that frequencies and waveforms offer. This interest, which began with my studies in ham radio, oscillators, amplitudes, and duty cycles, has always coincided with a full-fledged passion for creating music. My latest adventure in this realm has been building and experimenting with the Pocket Operator Modular 400, Pocket Operator 170, and Pocket Operator 16 from Teenage Engineering.

Through building these systems, I've come to appreciate not just the sounds I can create, but the intricate process behind each musical element in an ensemble like the 400 or the others. It's a blend of technical knowledge and creative expression, a fusion that has always been enjoyable for me to explore.

Building the Synthesizers

Pocket Operator Modular 400

The first synthesizer I tackled was the Pocket Operator Modular 400. This is the largest unit in the series and features a variety of waveform generators, including square, saw, and sine waves. It also includes a mixer, low-frequency oscillator (LFO), filter, envelope generator, voltage-controlled amplifier (VCA), a 16-step sequencer, random noise generator, and a random module. The built-in speaker makes it a self-contained unit, allowing for immediate sound creation without needing additional equipment.

Building the 400 was a meticulous process, largely due to the numerous screws required to secure the modules. The metal case needed careful handling, as bending it multiple times could weaken and snap the joints. This synthesizer took the longest to assemble since it was my first attempt, but the clear instructions and modular layout made the process manageable. A minor issue I encountered was the stiffness of some knobs, making fine-tuning a bit challenging. However, with regular use, they are likely to loosen up.

One noteworthy aspect is the power requirement: the 400 needs eight AA batteries if you don't have an AC adapter, which is quite a lot. Despite this, the sound quality and versatility of the instrument are impressive. I enjoy creating rough percussion noises using the sawtooth waveform and adding a fuzzy texture with the noise generator.

Pocket Operator 170

Next, I assembled the Pocket Operator 170. This smaller unit features an attached keyboard, adding a new dimension to the modular synthesis experience. The 170 includes an LFO, square wave generator, filter, envelope generator, and VCA, along with a built-in 16-key sequencer. The keyboard can be used with the built-in arpeggiator to create simple melodies.

This unit was quicker to assemble due to its smaller size, but fitting all the components into the compact case required careful planning. Like the 400, it demands a significant number of batteries: four for the main board and additional ones for the keyboard section. The 170 also comes with patch cables and a quick start guide, making it easy to get started. Its portability and integrated keyboard make it a versatile addition to my setup.

The box of the Pocket Operator Modular 16

Pocket Operator 16

The final build was the Pocket Operator 16, which is primarily a sequencer with a 16-slot layout, each slot capable of holding up to 64 steps. It features four tracks per slot and allows for intricate pattern creation. This unit was the easiest to assemble, thanks to its simpler design and fewer components. The case is a straightforward rectangle that requires minimal bending.

The assembly process is relatively simple on the 16 because it’s just the keyboard and sequencer.

The 16 is a powerful tool for sequencing and can be easily integrated with other Pocket Operators or modular synthesizers. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to delve into sequencing without the complexity of more advanced systems.

The Creative Process

Once the synthesizers were built, I began experimenting with various patches and sound combinations. The modular nature of these devices allows for endless creativity. I primarily create ambient music and retro, video game-inspired tunes. The ability to patch different modules together offers a wide range of sonic possibilities. For instance, I often use the sequencer and envelope generator to create evolving soundscapes, while the noise generator adds texture and depth to my compositions.

Challenges and Learnings

Building these synthesizers was not without its hurdles. Here are some specific challenges I encountered:

Knob Variability: The knobs are uneven in terms of how tight or loose they are. Some spin easily, while others require more force, because the components aren't meticulously tuned to feel the same. This isn't the same sensation as using, say, a DFAM or a Mother 32.
Power Requirements: The amount of batteries needed is quite high. The Pocket Operators can be powered by adapters ranging from 9 volts to 12 volts, but it must be a center-negative plug. Using the wrong polarity could fry the power board. Additionally, the power jacks are fragile; I found a post where someone ripped the jack right off the board .
Tight Assembly Spaces: The 170 has a smaller case, making it harder to fit all the components. The wires for the filter, envelope generator, and mixer need to fit near the external speaker, which all gets packed into a corner where a metal bend is required.
Metal Bending: The instructions require careful bending of the metal parts, which can only be bent once before they become brittle and snap. This made the assembly process nerve-wracking.
Instruction Clarity: The instructions, while detailed with pictures, resemble Ikea furniture assembly guides. There are lots of images but not much text or clear explanations, requiring careful thought to figure out how all the pieces fit together.

Despite these challenges, each problem provided an opportunity to think creatively and develop new solutions, enhancing my understanding and skills in modular synthesis.

Putting the VCA module into the Pocket Operator 400

The Joy of Creation

Despite the challenges, the joy of creating music with my own hands is incomparable. There's something incredibly satisfying about hearing the sounds you’ve crafted come to life, knowing that you built the instrument from the ground up. The process has deepened my appreciation for electronic music and the technology behind it.

Looking Ahead

Moving forward, I’m excited to continue exploring and expanding my musical horizons. I plan to delve deeper into the world of ambient music and experiment with new sounds and techniques. The Pocket Operators have opened up a new realm of possibilities, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next.

These synthesizers offer a fantastic introduction to modular synthesis, providing a hands-on experience that is both challenging and rewarding. While they may not be suited for advanced modular synthesis applications, they are perfect for beginners and hobbyists looking to explore the basics of sound design and synthesis.