Editing Modular synthesizer (section)

==Semi-modular synthesizers==
[[File:Korg Volca Modular 7921.jpg|thumb|The [[Volca Modular]], a compact semi-modular synthesiser]]

A modular synthesizer has a case or frame into which arbitrary modules can be fitted; modules are usually connected together using patch cords and a system may include modules from different sources, as long as it fits the form factors of the case and uses the same electrical specifications.

A semi-modular synthesizer on the other hand is a collection of modules from a single manufacturer that makes a cohesive product, an instrument. Modules may not be swapped out and usually a typical configuration has been pre-wired. The ''modules'' are typically not separable and may physically be parts of a contiguous circuit board. However, the manufacturer provides mechanisms to allow the user to connect modules in different orders and often to connect external components or modules (chosen and supplied by the user) between those of the instrument.{{citation needed|date=May 2020}}

=== Matrix systems ===
[[Image:EMS_at_MIM_Synthesizer.jpg |thumb|[[EMS Synthi A|EMS Synthi]] (VCS&nbsp;3) II uses a [[pin matrix]] for patching]]

Matrix systems use pin matrices or other crosspoint switches rather than patch cords. The [[ARP 2500]] was the first synthesizer to use a fixed switch matrix. The pin matrix was made popular in the [[VCS 3|EMS VCS-3]] and its descendants like the [[EMS Synthi 100]]. Other systems include the ETI 4600, and the Maplin 5600s.

The clean logical layout of these matrices has inspired a number of manufacturers like [[Arturia]] to include digitally programmable matrices in their analog or virtual analog synthesizers. Many fully digital synthesizers, like the [[Alesis Ion]], make use of the logic and nomenclature of a ''modulation matrix'', even when the graphical layout of a hardware matrix is completely absent.

===Patch override systems===
The different modules of a semi-modular synthesizer are wired together into a typical configuration but can be re-wired by the user using patch cords. Some examples are the [[ARP 2600]], Anyware Semtex, Cwejman S1, EML101, Evenfall Minimodular, Future Retro XS, [[Korg MS-10]] / MS-20 / PS-3100 / PS-3200 / [[Korg PS-3300|PS-3300]], Mungo State Zero, [[Roland System 100]], Korg [[Volca Modular]] and [[Moog Mother-32]] .

===Electronically reconfigurable systems===
Reconfigurable systems allow certain signals to be routed through modules in different orders without the use of patch cords. Examples include the [[Oberheim Matrix]] and [[Rhodes Chroma]], and Moog Voyager.