--- title: "RYK Modular: ALGO | Takazudo Modular" url: "https://takazudomodular.com/en/products/ryk-algo/" language: en description: "An introduction to the RYK Modular ALGO. 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. Additional features like wave fold, chorus, wave warp, detune, and a built-in VCA make this a feature-rich oscillator." alternate_ja: "https://takazudomodular.com/products/ryk-algo/" source: "Takazudo Modular" --- ![RYK Modular: ALGO](https://imgs.takazudomodular.com/images/p/ryk-algo-0-front__og/revisions/production/r1-bbce432d6666094432d6b547332cebe59a6aacd022bb53be1046dd2fdc2d7fec/1200w.webp) # RYK Modular: ALGO Author: Takazudo | Published: 2024/10/23 - [# RYK Modular](https://takazudomodular.com/en/tags/ryk/) - [# Modular Synthesizer](https://takazudomodular.com/en/tags/modular/) - [# MIDI](https://takazudomodular.com/en/tags/midi/) - [# VCO](https://takazudomodular.com/en/tags/vco/) - [# FM Synthesis](https://takazudomodular.com/en/tags/fm-synthesis/) 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. In addition to the assembled unit, we also carry the DIY kit for those who'd like to build it themselves. This product is available for purchase below. [![RYK Modular: ALGO](https://imgs.takazudomodular.com/images/p/ryk-algo-0-front__og/revisions/production/r1-bbce432d6666094432d6b547332cebe59a6aacd022bb53be1046dd2fdc2d7fec/2000w.webp) RYK Modular: ALGO 67,800 yen (tax & shipping included)](https://jp.mercari.com/shops/product/nzjX5DEtSqweEi5g6ZPFq) [![RYK Modular: ALGO DIY Kit](https://imgs.takazudomodular.com/images/p/ryk-algo-diy-0-contents/revisions/production/r1-acf731000f16276d2c9c9fdf6f82cf83c930e77c8bba49b198c727e9f7540ecf/2000w.webp) RYK Modular: ALGO DIY Kit 50,800 yen (tax & shipping included)](https://jp.mercari.com/shops/product/2JUqMnMMZzC7iWxTyuqdFs) - [Buy this item via Buyee (International shipping)](https://buyee.jp/mercari/item/nzjX5DEtSqweEi5g6ZPFq) - [Buy this item via Buyee (International shipping)](https://buyee.jp/mercari/item/2JUqMnMMZzC7iWxTyuqdFs) ## Product Photos: Assembled ![Photo: front of product](https://imgs.takazudomodular.com/images/p/ryk-algo-0-front__og/revisions/production/r1-bbce432d6666094432d6b547332cebe59a6aacd022bb53be1046dd2fdc2d7fec/2000w.webp) ![Photo: back of product](https://imgs.takazudomodular.com/images/p/ryk-algo-1-back/revisions/production/r1-cf930a7d5376e8830120c9d5890058712bd6ae2ebe1aa0a89fce2ad7432b23bf/2000w.webp) ![Photo: side of product](https://imgs.takazudomodular.com/images/p/ryk-algo-3-etc/revisions/production/r1-207bb20d2551dbdedbbfbab51855508582c84a11ea0456486f14f995a1d6cc49/2000w.webp) ## Product Photos: DIY Kit ![Photo: DIY kit contents](https://imgs.takazudomodular.com/images/p/ryk-algo-diy-0-contents/revisions/production/r1-acf731000f16276d2c9c9fdf6f82cf83c930e77c8bba49b198c727e9f7540ecf/2000w.webp) ![Photo: DIY kit package](https://imgs.takazudomodular.com/images/p/ryk-algo-diy-1-package/revisions/production/r1-e0aed161a8a89f9292ec784dac721d918332d55625e64e5ebbfb9baac66ed8ac/2000w.webp) ## Manuals and Guides Takazudo Modular publishes manuals and guide articles for this product. Please see below. - [ALGO: ManualJapanese translation included](https://takazudomodular.com/manuals/ryk-algo/) - [ALGO: DIY Kit Build GuideJapanese translation included](https://takazudomodular.com/manuals/ryk-algo-diy/) ## 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. [YouTube video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGRYs1Wbfx8) 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 ![Photo: Vector Wave](https://imgs.takazudomodular.com/images/p/vwave-0-front__og/revisions/production/r1-9aa142f54ab69c37b21dad7501559d31264b0b1a5eb907a992766a68512e38cb/2000w.webp) Before releasing ALGO, RYK Modular had already released another FM synth module called **Vector Wave**. We also carry Vector Wave at our shop, and have a dedicated article for it. [RYK Modular: Vector Wave An introduction to the RYK Modular Vector Wave. Vector Wave is an oscillator module that leverages the richness of digital design, built on FM Synthesis and Vector Synthesis, packed with Envelope, LFO, VCA, VCF and more, all driven by 16 oscillators.](https://takazudomodular.com/en/products/vector-wave-intro/) Vector Wave is similarly an FM synthesis-based oscillator, but it features an impressive **16 oscillators** that can be used simultaneously. These 16 oscillators are grouped into sets of four, which can be mixed using a joystick—a truly rich feature set. Compared to Vector Wave, ALGO has four oscillators. It also includes wave fold, wave warp, and similar features, making it essentially like **one quarter of a Vector Wave**. So why choose ALGO? There seems to be a fundamental difference in design philosophy between the two. ## Vector Wave's Characteristics ![Photo: Vector Wave](https://imgs.takazudomodular.com/images/p/vector-wave-display/revisions/production/r1-798dfdb07ed1133d54917825eb2ef2512721575de4f1d4867d3d07ab5236740e/1999w.webp) 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. ![Photo: ALGO close-up](https://imgs.takazudomodular.com/images/p/algo-close/revisions/production/r1-92c60f6d57280927a56f7c84ba70a82debe34012437ee9bcfe3e79dfa6225c18/1000w.webp) 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. [YouTube video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h0_x3GfnInA) Below is an introduction/explanation video by [Cinematic Laboratory](https://www.youtube.com/@CinematicLaboratory). Beyond the explanation, the cinematography is strikingly impressive. [YouTube video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5EkUmbKNfA) Below is a video by [Mylar Melodies](https://www.youtube.com/@mylarmelodies) creating various styles of synth sounds using ALGO. It's great for getting a sense of ALGO's sound palette. [YouTube video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oXp8bBwWPGk) 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. [YouTube video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lc1trrFZ9lI) ## Specifications - Width: 18HP - Depth: 25mm - Power consumption: 70mA +12V / 6mA -12V / 0mA 5V ## Included Items - Power ribbon cable - Manual (English) - Screws - Stereo splitter cable --- About the Brand ## About RYK Modular RYK Modular is a modular synthesizer maker based in the UK. RYK Modular makes modules that are unique yet genuinely practical. Their most talked-about module right now is the M185 — a classic sequencer reimagined in a form that feels right at home in a modular rig. Their VectorWave FM oscillator module is another standout. - [RYK Modular Website](https://www.ryk-modular.com/) - [X: @RYKModular](https://x.com/RYKModular) - [Instagram: ryk_modular](https://www.instagram.com/ryk_modular/) - [YouTube: RYK Modular](https://www.youtube.com/@RYKModular) ![Logo: 電氣美術研究會](https://imgs.takazudomodular.com/images/p/denbi/revisions/production/r1-c35cb4eaf5f608733e69add54a5d951fcd8e67a5b52edf89e605c75dd0a0fd42/820w.webp) ## Bonus: Modular Accessory Set by 電氣美術研究會 (Denki Bijutsu Kenkyukai) Included In the hope that more people will get hands-on with modular synths, we have teamed up with 電氣美術研究會 to bundle a modular accessory set with this product. The contents vary by season — patch cables, power cables, a dress-nut sample set, a mono splitter, and more. The set is included with the product, so please give it a try! - [電氣美術研究會](https://ears-modular.com/) 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](https://imgs.takazudomodular.com/images/p/ryk-algo-0-front__og/revisions/production/r1-bbce432d6666094432d6b547332cebe59a6aacd022bb53be1046dd2fdc2d7fec/2000w.webp) RYK Modular: ALGO 67,800 yen (tax & shipping included)](https://jp.mercari.com/shops/product/nzjX5DEtSqweEi5g6ZPFq) [![RYK Modular: ALGO DIY Kit](https://imgs.takazudomodular.com/images/p/ryk-algo-diy-0-contents/revisions/production/r1-acf731000f16276d2c9c9fdf6f82cf83c930e77c8bba49b198c727e9f7540ecf/2000w.webp) RYK Modular: ALGO DIY Kit 50,800 yen (tax & shipping included)](https://jp.mercari.com/shops/product/2JUqMnMMZzC7iWxTyuqdFs) - [Buy this item via Buyee (International shipping)](https://buyee.jp/mercari/item/nzjX5DEtSqweEi5g6ZPFq) - [Buy this item via Buyee (International shipping)](https://buyee.jp/mercari/item/2JUqMnMMZzC7iWxTyuqdFs) We hope you find this helpful. ## Product information (catalog snapshot) This is the catalog information published on the site when it was built. It is not a guarantee of live Mercari Shops inventory; check the purchase page for current availability. This page covers 2 catalog items (variants). Availability is per item and may differ between them. ### ALGO - Brand: RYK Modular - Price: ¥67,800 (JPY) - Status: Listed for sale (on Mercari Shops) - Width: 18HP - Purchase page: - Purchase page: ### ALGO DIY Kit - Brand: RYK Modular - Price: ¥50,800 (JPY) - Status: Listed for sale (on Mercari Shops) - Width: 18HP - Purchase page: - Purchase page: