Build a Modular Synth on a Budget

I am not a rich person, but if you saw my modular system, you might think I was. When I decided to pursue modular, I knew I would have to do so on a budget, so I developed a system to build a modular synth on a budget.

Build Three, Sell Two

I called my system “Build Three Sell Two” I’m sure I am not the first to do this. When I wanted a new filter I would order three panels and PCBs, order the parts myself, and then build one of them. This one would be the “learner module” and would end up being mine. That way no kludges or ugly resoldering would be passes on to a buyer. Once I finished that one module I had all the info I needed to build the other two with no issues, and I could make perfect modules that were as good as any professionally built or manufactured module, and would grow my reputation as a builder.

Those other two I would build at once, test, and put them up for sale. This takes patience, but eventually everything sells. It can take a bit, but sooner or later, your module will sell if you built it well and it looks good.

Tips for Selling your DIY Module

1. Take good pictures of the front and back.
2. Upload a youtube video of the module you sell – if you are selling two modules, make two videos, one for each.
3. Before shipping, take a quick video showing all features for a “POL” or Proof of Life video. That will help you if your module gets destroyed on the way into it’s new rack.
4. Support your modules and communicate. Follow the golden rule!

“Rules” for selling AI Modules for Profit

Buying AI Panels and PCBs, building, and selling for profit is encouraged. Let’s look at the economics of that:

If you buy 3 PCBs and Panels, the cost is $75. Parts and shipping, if you source it yourself (the build guide has links to all parts) will run you around $15-20 each. All in, your costs are under $135.

Let’s say you sell them for a little less than me built and tested, for $90 a pop. If you sold two and kept one, you end up making $45  and have a free ADSR (and you probably won’t have to include a power cable, sticker, and mounting screws like I do).

I’m 100% ok with that – just remember that you have to support the module if the buyer has any questions.

I personally did this and continue to do so. I don’t know how many Shruthi’s I sold a few years ago in the DIY MI days, but I know it paid for my personal Ambika build. I just built two Nava 909 kits, and I’ll sell one to cover the costs of building two. Yes it’s hours (and hours!) of labor, but it’s labor that I love and find truly relaxing, and in the end I have an (essentially) free 909. Yes, if you count the hours as wages, the theory goes to pot, but hobby hours are different, and if you don’t enjoy building the point is moot. Happy Building!