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Tangible Waves is a boutique synth manufacturer best known for the AE Modular format, a compact and affordable alternative to Eurorack that lowers the barrier to modular synthesis without dumbing anything down. Based in Germany, the company focuses on small, lightweight systems that are easy to experiment with, expand, and take in new creative directions.
AE Modular uses a patch-pin system rather than traditional patch cables, keeping costs and size down while still offering a genuinely modular workflow. The result is a hands-on, playful ecosystem that’s ideal for beginners, educators, and experienced synth users who want a secondary system for sketching ideas or exploring generative patches. Tangible Waves stands out for making modular synthesis more accessible, portable, and inviting without losing its experimental spirit.
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Generator is a sound source that creates raw audio signals used as the foundation for synthesis. This can include oscillators, noise sources, or digital sound engines that are shaped and controlled to produce musical tones, textures, and effects.
Modular is a synthesis format made up of separate, interchangeable modules that are patched together to create custom signal paths. It allows complete freedom over sound design, sequencing, and modulation, with each system built to suit the user’s workflow and creative approach.
A module is a self-contained unit designed to perform a specific function within a larger system. Modules are commonly used in modular and Eurorack setups, where each unit handles tasks such as sound generation, modulation, filtering, or control, allowing systems to be built and expanded piece by piece.
New Gear is unused and in original condition, supplied as it leaves the manufacturer. It is chosen for guaranteed reliability, full functionality, and the assurance of manufacturer support. For example, buying new ensures access to the latest design revisions, included accessories, and official warranty coverage.
An oscillator is the core sound source in a synthesizer, responsible for generating the raw audio signal that everything else is built from. It produces basic waveforms such as sine, saw, square and triangle, which can then be shaped and processed into more complex sounds.
What makes oscillators so important is their role in defining the character of a sound. Different oscillator types and designs can produce anything from smooth, pure tones to rich, harmonically complex textures. In modular systems, multiple oscillators can be combined, tuned and modulated to create evolving and expressive sounds.
Oscillators are simply great — fundamental, versatile and essential to synthesis. Whether you’re building basic tones or complex soundscapes, they are at the heart of your sound, and you will not be disappointed.