Before synthesizers became the synths we all know now, they were all modular, huge behemoth, monstrous systems designed by pioneering sound scientists wearing lab coats and exploring the sonic potential of electronic circuits.

With the recent resurgence of modular synthesizers (thanks to the smaller, more affordable Eurorack standard) people are starting to seek out those larger format modules and systems, which are still being produced by a small number of boutique manufacturers around the world. Whilst there isn't strictly a format that all of the manufacturers follow in terms of power, there's a general agreement that most modules are 5U or Moog Unit (MU) in whereas Eurorack adheres to a 3U standard.

People mainly seek out 5U formats for multiple reasons, but ultimately it's three factors that really play into choosing to tread the large format path:

• The sound quality, simply put 5U and large format modules tend to sound a lot bigger and fatter than their smaller counterparts, this is because of larger, better quality components, which provide a superior sonics and a better overall sound.

• The workflow, one thing that large format modules do is give you lots of space on the faceplates. No crowding the front panel with lots and lots of knobs, just simple, big controls that you can grab and tweak to your heart's content.

• Big 6.5mm Jacks, this kind of feeds into the workflow, but it does warrant talking about. When you use a larger format system, they tend to employ larger connectors, be that Banana plugs (in Buchla's case) or 6.5mm 1/4" jack connections, this more substantial connection feels more solid and positive.

We offer a wide selection of larger format modules and modular systems both in-store and online, including  Moog, Buchla, Moon Modular, Free State FX, Corsynth, Analogue Craftsman, Rob Hordijk, Frequency Central, GRP, Synthetic Sound Labs, Dove Audio and much much more.

Once you hear a large format modular system, you'll understand what it's all about, so why not visit us in store and come have a listen to our demo system?

We're always happy to have a chat about synthesizers especially when it comes to glorious 5U!

For more information call us, visit our London synth boutique and speak to our synthesizer expert Tom Lewis.