Editing Modular synthesizer (section)

=== 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.