The latest video features Deadmau5 (Joel Zimmerman) sharing a tour of his studio, and sharing his thoughts on his career through gear.
In the video, Zimmerman walks through the synths, modular systems, and rare vintage pieces that power his sound—from ARPs and Oberheims to his custom modular synthesizers. Along the way, he discusses how his gear has followed the evolution of his music.
Zimmerman admits to being a G.A.S. (Gear Acquisition Syndrome) addict, and, at one point, even says he built out his Modcan modular synth to ‘one-up Daft Punk’. This – combined with the fact that he’s successful enough to be able to be able to buy what he wants – has resulted in him building one of the most amazing electronic music studios ever.
I thought my Modcan A was huge and a sign of serious delusions at about 50 modules, but this one in the video is just ridiculous.
50 is probably perilously close to a mental condition, heh! Said the guy with a few dozen softynths, full disclosure…. We all have a little GAS, but when someone has a total wall covered, its either a tax break or they’re overcompensating like a mofo. Even halfway applying that is a serious time suck.
Too few people seem to really wring out their modulars, but there are some guiding lights. Johannes Schmoelling released a solo album called “Weivund Reit” (“Windblown Reeds”) that has a strong modular aroma. Its a serious keeper that shows why he was a member of TD for a time.
Cool album, thank you! What makes you think some modular was used?
does anyone care?
make music stop watch this crap 🙂
Yeah, let’s not browse synthtopia for content about gear. You know, the one blog al abut gear.
i do not agree. the gazillions of tracks released every day are just as unnecessary as a wall covered by modules. i love my gear just as much as i love my music.
Heck, if I had the money I would build a house made of Eurorack.
I’m not sure that would meet building code.
Can’t wait for the inevitable auction – “Never actually used after racking, wallpaper decoration /aesthetics only”
Right. He doesn’t even use hardware. I’ve seen his workflow on MasterClass and he does everything in the box. Nothing is patched. It’s all just wall-dressing for his studio, unused and building up nicotine residue.
it’s interesting how much gear he owns, because all his music sounds like AI.