At the beginning of 2024, we got a message from Joel Zimmerman—better known as deadmau5—asking if we could help him out with a small project. Simple enough: a case for his Oxi One Pipe module. But, as anyone familiar with modular knows, nothing stays small for long.
When One Module Turns Into a Monster Build
That “one case” quickly turned into a full-blown design for a 5,040hp custom Eurorack cabinet—a centerpiece to house Joel’s primary modular system. He wanted something that could handle the weight and complexity of hundreds of high-end modules, but still look sleek in the studio. Clean lines. Custom woodwork. Intentionally built, inside and out.
We were all in.
Designing for Real-World Use — Not Just Pretty Pictures
At Noizzi Hardwood, we don’t just build cases. We design tools—gear that works with the artist. And for a setup this large, that meant thinking about everything:
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Power distribution that could handle the load without noise
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Wood movement and joinery that would stay solid under stress
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Heat management to keep everything running smoothly
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And clean, efficient internal routing—because no one wants a rat’s nest behind the scenes
For power, we went with KonstantLab. Their reliability and clean output made them the clear choice. The final cabinet includes 12 KonstantLab power modules and 60 bus boards, all connected by over 300 carefully routed wires.
The case? Solid poplar, constructed using cabinet joinery for strength and long-term durability. Flexible enough to account for seasonal shifts and heavy enough to handle serious hardware without warping. Also great for painted finishes (we created a custom Sherwin Williams color called 'Snowcone').
The final finish and aesthetic details were dialed in alongside studio designer Martin Pilchner of Pilchner Schoustal, who ensured everything aligned with Joel’s evolving creative space.
The Modules: A Collector’s Dream
Joel’s collection is no joke. We’re talking original Cwejman modules, rare one-offs, and hand-picked pieces that each bring their own flavor to the mix. Everything had to fit, breathe, and function seamlessly. This wasn’t just about building a cabinet—it was about building a reliable home for thousands of hours of sound design potential.
Final Delivery
Once we wrapped the build, we handed it off to a dedicated courier who transported the cabinet to Joel’s studio. There, he began migrating modules from his iconic Doepfer Monster cases into their new home—turning his already legendary modular setup into something even more epic: powerful, organized, and undeniably beautiful.
At the end, Joel suggested we come up for a BBQ at his place... (Joel, you still there? 😁). Looking forward to it!
Built With Intention. Wired With Love.
This project wasn’t just about size. It was about care—about building something that serves both function and form at the highest level. Whether you're routing cables or reaching for inspiration, the tools you use should support the flow. And that’s exactly what this cabinet was made to do.
See some of the process from our Instagram post: https://www.instagram.com/p/C9OOikuudTY/
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