microcell is a miniature version of the Supercell module by Grayscale, which is an expanded version of Clouds by Mutable Instruments.

Clouds by Mutable Instruments is one of the more popular modules in Eurorack, and I also own an original Clouds. It is now discontinued. But thanks to Mutable Instruments designs being open source, there are many offerings from other makers still available to choose. The microcell appealed to me due to its size, as well as the separation of the Blend control into four separate controls with CV, the addition of VCAs on the input and output, and the superparasites firmware.

This module is available assembled or as DIY. I ordered the DIY kit. It was one of the easiest builds I have done.

Of the two boards, the main component board is completely assembled, including the interconnect headers to the front board and the power header. Only panel parts board needs assembly. The first step is to solder the female headers. The proper way to do this is to first connect them to the component male headers (which are already soldered), and place the board over them. Solder the end pins of each; then you can separate the boards and stow the component board while you finish up.

The procedure for jack, pot, and switch installation is to insert these parts without soldering, then affix the panel and put nuts on all the jacks. Now everything can be soldered. Take care that the pots are standing straight up.

I removed the panel to take the photo above, showing the front side with everything installed except for the sixteen LEDs. (I leave them for last, because the long leads get in the way otherwise.) NOTE: The silkscreen on this board did not indicate the polarity of the Hold switch with the LED. The + side (marked on bottom of the switch) must be near the board edge.