22 reasons the #1 eurorack module is Maths by Make Noise

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Maths by Make Noise is by far the #1 eurorack module on Modular Grid - both in terms of rating and popularity. In this video, I explain what Maths is and why it's so popular.

Maths sounds complicated and if you've heard some of the terms used to describe it - an analog computer, a function generator and various other quadratic equations, it may seem a bit intimidating, but overall, it has three core components: attentuverters, a mixer and slew rate limiters.

It is however the combination of these things, which a few bonus features, that makes Maths such a versatile module.

In this clip I give an example of 22 things you can use it for:

1. Audio level control (for example, to reduce eurorack audio levels to line level)
2. A simple voltage generator
3. Mod depth control for external LFOs and envelopes.
4. Signal/waveform inversion
5. An audio mixer
6. Slew for glide/portamendo effects.
7. It has multiple ways to trigger envelopes.
8. It can generate two separate AD (Attack-Delay) Envelopes.
9. Envelope curves can be linear, exponential, logarithmich, or any combination thereof, generating "sharkfin" type envelopes.
10. It can generate ASR (Attack-Sustain-Release) envelopes
11. Various type LFOs
12. Math can behave as a voltage controller oscillator (VCO)
13. By creating two VCOs and patching one to the other you can create FM style sounds
14. With a bit of patching, Maths can create extremely slow LFOs (up to 25 minutes)
15. Maths can behave as an envelope follower...
16. ... which can be used as Sidechain
17. It can be a simple clock...
18. ... and perform as a clock divider
19. You can mix envelopes and LFOs to create complex shapes, such as a fast LFO riding a slow LFO
20. The OR output can be used to create even more complex waveforms, as well as act as a rectifier that only allow positive voltages.
21. Maths can process sounds fimilar to a filter with optional resonance
22. In a pinch, Maths can act as a VCA

NOTE: Occasionally I’ll try out affiliate marketing and include affiliate links. This means that I may earn a commission when you click on or make purchases via affiliate links. The content of this clip is entirely my opinion, and was not paid for or dictated in any what by the company creating the gear. Without addressing the particulars of products shown here as they might be under NDA, gear shown on this channel may be either sent by the manufacturer, on loan for review or bought at a discount.

[TayTayMakesBeats]

This video along with Mylarmelodies' VCA and generative modular vids were the 3 videos that taught me almost everything I needed to know to get started. Maths is a module that does almost everything so if you understand Maths you're pretty much set. The way that you broke it down made this incredibly complex module seem simple (after 5+ rewatches). You're doing a great service to the eurorack community by helping the newer/aspiring members understand everything they need to know to get started. Also the oscilloscope is unbelievably helpful for conceptualizing CV and I wish more creators used it. Thanks guy!

[AI-Heaven-Hell]

Why would anyone downvote this video. This must be the best maths tutorial on youtube. It explains the structure of maths exeptionally good.

[DJSolara]

something about seeing this index at the left really helps me.. and proper lesson speed and zooms.. bravo

[paulbergel]

That was fantastic!! It would be really cool if you gave other iconic modules this treatment, like Clouds!

[Illuminihilation]

At about 13:46 of trying to follow along with the lesson, I am not sure I am still on or anywhere near the curriculum but I have this really cool boom bap laser beam 80's laughing video game villain bass solo going, so I'll rejoin this program when I return.

[robertsnow]

We've got one of these on the rack synth at my university. At first I saw it and completely noped out because of how complex it looks but this guy has explained it so clearly. You've earned a subscriber and I've learned to use an incredibly valuable tool!

[Abandoned_Logik]

Thanks for putting this together. As a newbie to modular, it is a breath of fresh air to have access to such insightful, well structured and simply explained tutorial. It made a huge difference to my sound and workflow already. Thanks again.

[eliwynn]

I just picked up a maths for my system I use in my videos each week and I will never regret it. This thing blows the door wide open on new possibilities with your existing modules! Thanks, Loopop for the in-depth guide!

[washesmusic]

Just got a Maths over the holidays and this has been incredibly helpful. Feels like I just unlocked a cheat code in my rack.

[blave]

What I like here is that you don't employ a bunch of other modules to show what Maths can do -- just the bare necessities. I've had a Maths (actually, I used to have two) for years and I never know about some of the possibilities that are shown here. Thanks!

[krism]

pretty much the best Maths video out there, imo. It takes what is arguably one of the most complex/versatile modules in eurorack and breaks it down into simple parts

[REALWARE]

I watch this video several times a year and my mind is blown in a new way every time

[julianstaniewski]

Calling you best synth-teacher on youtube

[JurekPrzezdziecki]

Someone put his effort into explaining Maths. Great work.

[voicians]

your videos are the best to learn the modular stuff! Big ups

[LukeTeaford]

"Shark fin slopes" is one of my favorites. It's perfect for sculpting exactly the shape you're looking for especially when fine tuning it in. It can breathe so much life into linear shapes!

[EdwinSL]

This helps me much, I own this module since about five weeks. You've got an eye on what people would like to know, props.
And you really cleaned that module before filming it properly, I like that, details can be everything.

[joachimzoepf]

loopop's videos are among the best to be found on the internet - methodically well structured, clear and understandable. Thanx

[musicartgeek]

Best walkthrough for Maths I've seen yet, and it's a crowded field with some very good contenders. Well done

[TBCfhjvhhhnbb]

Quite simply the most easy to digest and chilled out explanation of Maths on the Internet!