Modulus: Modular Architecture for Analog Guitar Effects
Paulo Victor Cunha Caetano, Wamberto J. L. Queiroz, Rafael B. C. Lima, Jalberth F. Araújo, Gutemberg Júnior, Henrique D. Silva · 2025
This paper presents Modulus, a modular architecture for analog effects pedals, based on the separation between a standardized potentiometer interface and interchangeable effect modules. In this architecture, three potentiometer values were selected through statistical analysis, enabling hardware standardization across analog pedal designs. Resistive networks and numerical optimization of electrical filters were applied to adapt musical effect circuits featuring atypical potentiometer values. The results demonstrate the feasibility of the modular architecture and a cost reduction exceeding $80 \%$ per musical effect when compared to traditional pedal architectures. The system was validated through auditory and field testing, demonstrating robustness and potential applicability in academic, professional, and commercial contexts.