Awesome! Thank you.

How high is the learning curve on the Intellijel Cascadia? I have basic to intermittent knowledge of the analogue world but know nothing about the modular world. Some of the theory. Non of the practice.

There are a few things to understand just to get started with the normalised path of the synth. None of them are hard it's just that they're not things that you encounter on your common fixed path synths.

After that you necessarily have to do some basic patching because not all the features are prewired. Not hard, but it's a new way to work and think and so more things to learn.

Then you can get into more advanced patching where you'll find a lifetime of things to explore and learn.

In short, this is not quite a plug and play experience, you won't be able to use everything straight away, and you likely never will fully master it because it is very powerful and flexible. It's a journey to take on one step at a time.

Note that the manual is super clear and that all the of the modular patching tutorial you can find out there will apply.

btw, what's the most complicated synth you are comfortable with?

Thank you for the intel.
Something to learn and grow with over time actually sounds like a plus.
I guess I was worried about being alienated at the start. But I don’t think so.
Looks fun.

To be honest, I often find modular and semi-modular synths easier to use than fixed signal flow synths, because the decisions are mostly or entirely yours, which can make it easier to build certain patches. Modulation by connecting a couple of patch cables can be more intuitive than menu diving through pages of modulation options.

No idea what you are comparing modular to here. Lots of fixed architecture synths don't have menus. If you think patching up a minimoog is easier than just playing a minimoog I consider that a fried take.

Maybe a better way to phrase it is that by patching a semi-modular or modular, you can have a better understanding of the signal flow, because you patched it. I also think using modular synths, including Intellijel’s modules gave me a deeper understanding and appreciation for fixed architecture synths.

I still stand by the comment about things being easier, especially when you want to do something that has slightly complex modulation or slightly different signal flow than standard subtractive synthesis.

My comment was in relation to being intimidated by modular and semi-modular. If I was going to teach someone how to use synths, I’d probably *start* by showing them a modular setup.

I see what you mean. Modular having a physical separation of the different parts of a synth make it easier to follow I can see that. I learned on Nord Wave and Korg Mono/Poly mostly and I can't imagine modular synths being more beginner friendly than those two. I had no trouble visualizing the signal flow. I found the ability to just turn a bunch of knobs and flick switches and listen to the results was a much faster way to learn than having to consciously select every cable.

Intellijel Cascadia: On Sale & Reviewed

https://www.gearnews.com/intellijel-...er-our-review/

This might the right deal at the wrong time for me. Thomann says available in 2 to 3 weeks which is exactly when I’ll be on holiday. Hopefully it’s still going by mid December or early January.

Cascadia owners, quick question! When unboxing, was the unit in any plastic wrapping? Or just by itself wedged between the foam? Mine didn't have any plastic, and has some scratches on the metal. Just wondering if I may have gotten an open box instead of brand new!

Mine had no plastic and had a couple little scratches. Nothing noticeable from afar. Bought from Sweetwater.

No plastic on mine. Didn't notice any scratches but haven't looked closely.

Ditto with no scratches. I contacted Intellijel and they confirmed this is how it is packaged and shipped. The box is not even sealed. A bit surprising.