# A question in "Generate simulated source data"

**URL:** <https://mne.discourse.group/t/a-question-in-generate-simulated-source-data/2630>\
**Category:** Support & Discussions\
**Created:** [January 30, 2021, 2:42pm UTC](https://mne.discourse.group/t/a-question-in-generate-simulated-source-data/2630 "2021-01-30T14:42:50Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 1\
**Showing post:** 10

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**Author:** ![christian-oreilly](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/free1/user_avatar/mne.discourse.group/christian-oreilly/32/382_2.png) [@christian-oreilly](https://mne.discourse.group/u/christian-oreilly)\
**Post date:** [May 12, 2021, 3:24pm UTC](https://mne.discourse.group/t/a-question-in-generate-simulated-source-data/2630/10 "2021-05-12T15:24:45Z")

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I am a bit confused… This thread seems to say that we cannot simulate mixed sources models (because the volume sources will have free orientation) while this thread [Simulate activity in subcortical structures using MNE python?](https://mne.discourse.group/t/simulate-activity-in-subcortical-structures-using-mne-python/1334) seems to say it is possible, although it is a bit short in details.

So, just to be clear, is it possible to simulate a mixed source model and if so what combination of `loose`, `fixed`, and `pick_ori` allows to estimate mixed sources that are compatible with the simulation routines?

If it is not possible as @larsoner seems to say, I guess I would just like to put a thumb up for this feature request 🙂

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