Hardware Synths

[tekneeq]

I've been fascinated with hardware synths lately and have been reading and viewing lots of reviews on different products. Instead of adding another plug-in synth to my tools, I'm thinking that going the hardware route will be a better choice. I will be using Logic Pro as my DAW to record the sounds of the hardware synth.

I've been comparing the Sub Phatty, Minitaur, Analog 4, Minibrute, and Bass Station II. I've seen quite a few videos that really bring out the dub sounds of the Analog 4. Although I don't quite understand if the Analog 4 will be the better choice for me since most are using the Analog 4 as a standalone production tool without a DAW. What are your guys' thoughts?

[AllDay]

Moog slim phatty is my favorite. Go with a moog for that every so lovely filter.

[Ashigari]

really depends on what you want, I'd prefer a one knob - one function kind of synth like the minibrute or mintaur (but that thing only does bass! no notes higher than some note I can't remember). But if you intend to use them live saving patches and recalling them instantly might be better for you...

As for use with a DAW: I'm sure you can sequence them easily from any DAW but the Analog 4 has the added benefit that you could use it without the PC and then just record everything you need afterwards - again it's mostly about workflow and some people like to get away from the PC as much as possbile with harware synths

Out of those 4 I'd either go for the Sub Phatty or maybe Analog 4

[botstein]

I've been fascinated with hardware synths lately and have been reading and viewing lots of reviews on different products. Instead of adding another plug-in synth to my tools, I'm thinking that going the hardware route will be a better choice. I will be using Logic Pro as my DAW to record the sounds of the hardware synth.

I've been comparing the Sub Phatty, Minitaur, Analog 4, Minibrute, and Bass Station II. I've seen quite a few videos that really bring out the dub sounds of the Analog 4. Although I don't quite understand if the Analog 4 will be the better choice for me since most are using the Analog 4 as a standalone production tool without a DAW. What are your guys' thoughts?

I'm in the market for a Sub Phatty sometime soon. I think Moog is classic.

[balakoth]

I'm in the market for a Sub Phatty sometime soon. I think Moog is classic.

Analog is the only way to go. Because of gear syndrome, I tended to buy controllers sell them etc. One day I wanted to try this Analog thing. Once you taste it you will never go back.

I only own three, two being true analog one Virtual analog. Moogmini Voyager, Prophet 08 (Sold, and waiting for my 12 to arrive), Virus Ti2 Desktop.


Moog is a very great way to go for a first synth. Their approach was the basis for many osc and filter setups to come after it. The old ones sound great, and the new Voyager sounds even better with some of the quirks and now TWO filters per osc.

Others have suggested a Litty Phatty which I would agree is a great starter synth. Some of the DSI small instruments are great for starters too like the Mopho.

Either I completely missed what your budget was or didnt specify. Thats going to give you a better range for people to suggest.

That along with what you want to do with it exactly. Many Analog synths are tailored to specific jobs, but do them very very very well. My voyager is used for some really thick leads, bass sounds, and ive been really working on getting some percussion shots out of it. Being MONOPHONIC it plays a single note at a time. IF you need to do pads, lush, thick harmonies etc, something with polyphony would be best.

[diezdiazgiant]

If you're a competent keyboard player go for anything other then the A4, if you want bang for your buck go for the A4.

I've got hardware and my next purchase is going to be an a4. Yes a daw is the center of my setup but elektrons sequencers really make their equipment a great piece to compliment any setup.

[Xonetacular]

depends on a lot of things

personally I think moogs are pretty boring, though a sub phatty would make a pretty good first synth.

ms-20 mini is a great deal and a bit more exciting

If I ever purchase another (mostly) fixed architecture synth it will prob be that. elektron a4 looks pretty cool though elektron stuff is deep and has a lot of menu diving.

[Polygon]

I love analog, but it's just too expensive for me...
The m-audio venom i really like, especially now that its price has fallen from something 700$ to something $200.. Other than that, i played around a couple times with a friend's self-made analog stuff, and yeah, it does give you the feeling of being complete control over the sound, and the gratification of knowing exactly where you're routing your signal. But in the end i much prefer cheaper softsynths with better tweakability, than good-looking, but clumsy, big and heavy wood boxes.

Oh yeah, and i use a moogerfooger for production work, really gives analog warmth without costing you an arm and a leg.

[BiggChev]

I'm trying to save for a Virus Acces TI, thing is a beast

BUT if you're into vintage synths, the Roland D-50 is awesome. I was lucky enough to inherit one but it's long been U/S.

[diezdiazgiant]

Microkorg/ms2000r is worth considering and can be had for a decent price. I have owned two in the past, and just bought what will be my third. Solid little boxes.