We got a couple of good notes on how to source your own x0xb0x synth kit. In general, I wouldn’t recommend the x0xb0x as a first synth project, but that said, there are some good resources out there if you decide you want to give this synth a try. Likewise, the resources on Lady Ada’s site are worth a look even if you don’t intend to build a x0xb0x — there’s a treasure trove of parts info there that could be useful for other projects, too.
Video: “wyllytesla Live Acid – a 303, 909 and x0xb0x pounding out hard techno”
Julien Chevalley says he had some good luck building his own open-source, DIY x0xb0x, sans kit:
It was a relatively easy process. I was able to get all the “rare-parts” from one guy (Gaetano) who has done all the hard work of sourcing them and offers them on sale in the xoxbox build forum. Even better he is based in the same country as me (Australia), so 90 bucks and 1 day later I had all the “rare” parts. 2 Weeks later I had everything else.
It took me 3 days to assemble, taking my time. Everything worked OK, first time (Yes I was actually pleasantly surprised!).
The total cost for me was about $400 (AUD). The real killer here is postage from the US suppliers (digikey/mouser). I might have been able to source the parts locally but it would have been a long and complex process, so I was happy to spend a bit of extra cash for the convenience…
Here’s where you might want to look:
x0xb0x Build Manual Parts List (includes each individual part with photo, description, source, alternatives where appropriate, and availability information)
Bill of Materials Spreadsheet on the Wiki (with printable PDF, if you’re luck enough to have a brick and mortar electronics store!)
Modifications to make the 303 a “true” clone of the Roland
I still wonder if there are other ways to “modernize” the design for easier availability, though I suspect you’d still have the issues getting parts in some parts of the world. If you work on such a project, let us know.