This is an introduction and overview of the ALGO by RYK Modular, available at Takazudo Modular. ALGO is a complex oscillator bank based on FM Synthesis. It features an intuitive, analog-inspired interface for generating the complex harmonies that make FM synthesis so appealing.

It also offers a wealth of additional features including wave fold, chorus, wave warp, detune, and a built-in VCA, making it a richly featured oscillator.

This product was built by Takazudo using a DIY kit. After assembly, all functions were tested and verified before listing. This module is sold with permission from its manufacturer, RYK Modular.

This product is available for purchase below.

RYK Modular: ALGO

¥65,800（税込／送料込）

• Product Photos
• ALGO Feature Overview
• What Kind of Module Is ALGO
• RYK Modular's Two FM Synth Modules
• Vector Wave's Characteristics
• ALGO Compared to Vector Wave
• Reference Videos
• Manual
• Other Notes
• Specifications
• Included Items

Product Photos#

ALGO Feature Overview#

First, as I started writing about this module, I thought it would be better to demonstrate while explaining. So I, Takazudo, recorded a video where I talk through the ALGO while actually playing it. The video covers roughly 90% of the detailed usage.

Here's the video for those interested.

For now, this page will provide a text-based overview of ALGO's features.

What Kind of Module Is ALGO#

ALGO is best described as an FM synth + extra oscillator at its core. The foundation is a 4-operator FM synth, with the following additional features:

• Stepped pitch changes
• Wave warp
• Wave fold
• Detune
• Sync input
• Built-in chorus
• Built-in VCA
• Stereo output

While all these features are impressive, the biggest strength of ALGO, in my opinion as Takazudo, is that it provides an interface for intuitively operating FM synthesis.

RYK Modular's Two FM Synth Modules#

Vector Wave's Characteristics#

Vector Wave has 16 oscillators, but how do you control them? Operation is performed using eight rotary encoders and four buttons. Depending on the button and knob inputs, the display in the upper center of the module shows various information, and you can configure diverse parameters by navigating through menus.

For external CV control, four jacks labeled M1–M4 are provided, where you can send external CV and route these four inputs to any parameters you like. Additionally, it supports MIDI, receiving Note ON/Note OFF via the MIDI jack, and you can also route MIDI CC to any parameters you choose.

Sound patches and routings created this way can be saved as presets, making it a powerful oscillator for both deep sound design and ready-to-use live performance.

ALGO Compared to Vector Wave#

While Vector Wave functions as a powerful synthesizer, it doesn't provide dedicated on-panel interfaces for controlling its parameters directly. All parameters are accessible, but changing them requires pressing buttons to navigate menus and turning encoders. If you want to control many parameters simultaneously, you'll need a separate MIDI controller. In this regard, its interface follows a typical digital module design approach.

ALGO extracts one quarter of Vector Wave, but the major difference is that each oscillator has dedicated knobs for Frequency (pitch) and Level (volume). Since other features are similar to Vector Wave, this is arguably the most significant distinction. While ALGO lacks a display like Vector Wave's, the algorithm—representing the modulation relationships between oscillators that are crucial for operation—is displayed using LEDs. (And it looks very cool, too.)

Some might think, "Is that all? Then Vector Wave seems better," but when you actually have both modules in front of you and operate them, you'll notice that the interface difference is substantial. While functionally similar, the feel during hands-on use is quite different.

After using ALGO myself, I, Takazudo, was reminded that Vector Wave has a stronger digital sound module aspect to it. ALGO, while based on digital oscillators, feels like operating an analog oscillator when the main FM synth controls are available as dedicated knobs right there on the panel.

What I mean by "analog" here is essentially the tactile control experience. Being able to control the main elements of a synthesizer using dedicated knobs and buttons on the module itself carries profound significance for the overall impression of the module—something I realized through using ALGO.

In terms of raw power, ALGO falls short of Vector Wave. However, for intuitively enjoying FM synthesis sound design, ALGO has the edge. A digital FM synth designed with an analog control feel—that's my impression of ALGO. So for those who want to enjoy FM synthesis and have flexible control over the FM parameters, I highly recommend ALGO.

Reference Videos#

Below is the official ALGO demo video from RYK Modular. It's a short video that gives a quick overview of ALGO's sound and features.

Below is an introduction/explanation video by Cinematic Laboratory. Beyond the explanation, the cinematography is strikingly impressive.

Below is a video by Mylar Melodies creating various styles of synth sounds using ALGO. It's great for getting a sense of ALGO's sound palette.

Below is a hard techno-style session I recorded using ALGO. I was experimenting with it after building it. The only synth in this session is ALGO.

Manual#

The manual is available on the official website below.

• RYK Modular: User Manuals

Other Notes#

• Built in October 2024; the installed firmware version is V1.2.

Specifications#

• Width: 18HP
• Depth: 25mm
• Power consumption: 70mA +12V / 6mA -12V / 0mA 5V

Included Items#

• Power ribbon cable
• Manual (English)
• Screws
• Stereo splitter cable

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• 電氣美術研究會

That concludes our introduction of ALGO.

This module is especially recommended for those who want to understand FM synthesis through hands-on experience. It's also a strong candidate for adding the rich harmonies of FM synthesis to your modular setup. And above all, it looks incredibly cool. I feel that RYK's modules are all designed with strong attention to aesthetics.

RYK Modular: ALGO

¥65,800（税込／送料込）

We hope you find this helpful.