I really like the bass lines you do for the first jams you do in your videos. Could you share what is your approach to make those great acid lines. Best.
Here's a trick with the only 16 step sequencer: Ignore it for sequencing notes, and use it for just modulation. You can record in parameter changes without any notes and leave the sequencer running so it's modulating parameters while you play or sequence it externally. 16 steps of notes may be very limiting but treating it like a custom modulator instead it becomes a different beast.
I almost had a heart attack when I saw my beloved monologue was on stage to be judged!!! But, at least you saw the sequencer for what it is and gave it the same praise in it's implementation that I do. All in all, the under-achieving but loveable middle child of the King "-uge" line survives to rock another day!
Just got it as my first -so far- Synthesitzer. only pay 210€ because it is very cheap at Amazon and I got a 50€ coupon for Amazon. Also the wood thingy at the back matches my Hifi Speaker and my living room door perfectly. :-D Was that stupid? I thought about getting a Arturia MiniBrute 2 Noir, but 500€ is steep starting point for beginning a new Hobby IMHO. So far I only played a little with HELM.
Was that a Kurt Cobain picture you showed when you invoked Richard D James? 🤣 Dude you kill me sometimes, I swear I could rewatch your videos and catch random Easter eggs all over. High quality entertainment 🤣 as always. Edit: have to give props for the ending jam, loved it
I bought one last year but sold it after a few months to a guy who was giving it to his kid as their first synth. I think it was a very nice gift for the child.
The fact that it’s battery powered and it spits out a gate signal for the Eurorack makes it a keeper. I love this and the Monotribe. Their quite similar.
Sync out sends a 5v pulse every step. That’s enough to trigger the 4ms Rotating Clock Divider. That gives me plenty of gate (or trigger) signals. Volca and Monotribe can do it too!
You just sold 100 monologues for Korg. Everytime I wanna whip up cash for gear I can't afford I consider putting the stock knobs back on and selling the log. Then I play it for a final hurrah, play it some more, put some drums on it, and play it for about six hours and realize that the sequencer is awesome. 16 steps you can change every 16 steps on the fly, it never gets old. Sometimes it sounds like ass, is hard to mix with anything, other times it IS the sound.
all three tunes were delightfully impressive. I didnt even know this synth was disliked at all. This was the number 1 contender a few years back when I was bit by the monologue synth bug and was shopping for one, Ended up with the Roland Se-02 and can't complain. (dont even think about it, not bad gear material). Thank you again for starting my weekend right, I kept the coffee pot on longer while waiting for youtube to let you upload. well worth it.
I am definitely not a fan. I tried. I've owned two. Just too many limitations. For the money I'd probably go with a bass station 2. Better sequencer, better envelopes, paraphonic.
Hearing your two songs featuring this piece really lets me know that this really is a true descendant of that classic 80s freestyle sound that Korg was deeply involved in.
I think this is where you went full circle, for me anyway. Youve handled all my past synths and this is my current synthesizer. Bad? Not sure, alot of the presets I have zero use for, but mine is gold coloured, and thats what I hate most about it. Shouldve gotten black, OR, well, a poly synth. As always, great video!
I've been waiting for this, glad it's finally here. The monologue is my favourite synthesizer, it was my first and it's supplied me with some of my favourite sounds. The sounds may sound a little harsh to some but it's special talent is being able to sit in virtually any mix quite well. I've used it in more songs than i can count. Also there are like hundreds of little tricks that you can do with this synth that are practically only possible on the monologue, when you really go deep into it then it's truly something quite special.
The 16 step sequencer on this thing can do drums and baselines plus using the white noise To get metallic sounds you got hi hats. The 4 motion locks make it possible to cram everything in just 16 steps or one bar. It really can do live techno or dubstep like sets just stand alone by saving multiple patches at the same tempo and flipping that knob back and forth for patch transitioning to overcome that one bar limit so yeah it’s a Beast. I fully love This machines sequencer capacity and when pushed to the limit it can get some pretty off the wall amazing beats Going. 10/10 for korg.
As I wrote to the MicroKorg episode: the Monologue is (of course) no MicroKorg replacement, but for me it is exactly this. I'm sure it will be a legend one day. I really love this lil fella.
This synth is so good, it deserves a special edition with a more solid build and an option to get it only as a module. Of course, I was a huge fan of the ER-1 as well, so I was very happy to see these two powerhouses together! Tip 1: Internal clock sequencer speed goes up to 600 BPM from the tempo menu. Tip 2: The Mac and PC editor also lets you import custom tunings from Scala.
Let's go dude, my first synth! Got it for a bargain a couple years back, the rubberized plastic knobs are getting a little sticky now, but I love it's sounds and the hands on control.
Shots fired. The distortion + filter has that tone I’ve always looked for. I love it. Are there ‘better’ in its class/price range… yes. This is is just fun and immediate…”too aggressive and too fuzzy” ? Yes please! (Also I have the baby blue microbrute.)
Just found one for 200 American earth bucks NEW😎 Didn't need another mono synth but this is much more than that, the sequencer is killer. Never bought it thinking it would end up a as secret drum machine/percussion looper Take a monotribe with 16 steps, add a mini keyboard and the always appreciated motion recording from volcas, digital CCs and a real midi interface you have the monologue. Love it!
I like the Monologue a lot. However, since the Minilogue XD came out, I've seriously been considering selling the Monologue and replacing it with the XD. The XD is such a great upgrade over the original Minilogue and resolves pretty much all the issues I had with the original. But back to the Monologue! The good: it's a relatively inexpensive analogue monosynth with a LOT of potential. I bought mine new when they were $300 and I still think that's a great price for this synth. Definitely worth $300 IMO. That said, last I checked the price had crept above $350 and in that range I'm not so sure... I would probably want something like the Microfreak instead. The oscillators are nice, it seems to stay in tune just fine, and it's definitely got some character to the sound. I like how gnarly and aggressive it can get. The battery compartment is extremely welcome, especially since Korg didn't bother to include a power supply. I really love just sitting on the couch and playing around with the Monologue. Its size is also perfect for this. In terms of "mini-keys," these are the type of mini-keys that I enjoy because they don't particularly feel like mini-keys to me (the Microkorg, in my opinion, has the worst mini-keys ever made). The knobs are smooth and I love turning them, likewise with flicking the switches. This is a cheap plastic-bottom synth but the interface panel feels MUCH higher quality than that, and the OLED display is super crisp and responsive. Only occasionally have I noticed slight weirdness where on certain notes it doesn't quite update quick enough. I also think that this is one of those few synths where its limitations are actually a good thing. While the sequencer is limited, it's one of the easiest to use on any monosynths that I've tried. The filter, like on any good synth, can be utilized as a third oscillator, and you can create a pretty awesome kick using just the filter, no oscillators. To me, the filter is definitely a high point on the Monologue. The synth engine presented here is flexible enough to create workarounds for some of the limitations, and for me that's something that makes a synth exciting. Since it's so well-laid out and easy to use, creating workarounds are not really that difficult, it just requires a little bit of experimentation. I am reminded of the Korg DS-10 in that way, where the limitations force me to seek out new ways to utilize what I'm given and ultimately I end up creating not only results that were better than expected, but results I otherwise wouldn't have thought of had those limitations not forced me to be creative. I probably sound like a big fan of the Monologue... and I am! But onto the bad. Considering the price now hovers around $350, I wouldn't say it's necessarily a bad purchase at that price, but there are certainly some other options, like the Microfreak or various Behringer synths like the Model D, Cat, etc. Go a little higher and you're in Bass Station II territory, and that is one synth that I've been salivating over. I'm still punishing myself for not picking one up brand new when it was on sale for $350. I think the BSII has more sonic flexibility than the Monologue, with an interface that has both strengths and weaknesses in comparison, but in general is the one I'd rather use on any given occasion. One thing you didn't mention was the key arrangement, which on the Monologue is E-to-E. This is because it's intended for supplementing guitar with a "bass line." I guess that's fine, standard guitar tuning starts with E but not every song or every guitar player uses standard tuning, and it does make using the keyboard a little odd. I'd rather have a normal C-to-C keyboard. Additionally, as you pointed out, while this synth has character it's tone is rather aggressive and not everyone may like it (I quite like it, but I can understand why others don't). I'm no mixing guru but I think this one when pushed to its limits might have a bit more trouble sitting in the mix than others. The limitations ultimately do become a factor as well. I don't think they're a breaking point for a $300 synth, but when comparing to something like the Microfreak (which wasn't out when I bought the Monologue), I think in hindsight I would have chosen that for its greater flexibility. Having new analog synth options in 2017 was an awesome thing, and the Monologue is a great analog synth, especially for someone just starting out (in that case, the limitations and ease of use make it a great instrument to learn with). And with some out-of-the-box thinking, you can get a lot of great results. That said, I have several other monosynths (and still some I'm considering to purchase) that I think I'm ready to move on from the Monologue, and replace it with the Minilogue XD which is a steal at its current price when you compare it to the Opsix or the Wavestate (both of which should be $650 or less in my opinion), and capable of so much more than the Monologue. Again, it's a great synth, really, and it has its place. But I think competition has caught up and surpassed it at this point, especially if you're looking at paying ~$350 for it. Still, it's capable of some really cool stuff. (Yes, I'm having trouble accepting the idea of parting with mine.) Sorry for the super long comment! Thanks to anyone who bothers to read it!
It’s a great learner synth (especially for kids with the oscilloscope), that has quite some Interesting abilities. You did miss the 4 lanes of automation in the sequencer, which I think is the best “longevity” option on this entry level synth. The price is so good, that it would definitely work for a permanent bass synth (layer), as selling one doesn’t make much sense ;)
Literally bought this as a learner synth for my niece (who's in elementary school). Don't know how far she got with it, but I couldn't resist and got myself one too :D
If we were playing Bad Gear Bingo I’d be ticking all the boxes. I bought mine off a fine British fellow who had more emit less the same opinions as Florian. Maybe time to do an OP-1, it’s overpriced, over hyped, bad for making music that is not lofi pop or hiphop, we still don’t know how all the synth engines work, and it beats the microkorg for hipster chic
@@randommcranderson5155 I have four teenage engineering gadgets... 3 are totally flawless and work perfectly. however, one of them has a button stuck and despite numerous emails, there's been no reply. however, as the device in question isn't my 'go to', it's fine - I'll ignore that one button! (or keep randomly poking it...)
You left out one of this synth’s best features: the external input that lets you run other audio devices through the filter. Hook up a digital polysynth or a drum machine, use the motion sequencer to automate the filter, and let the games begin.
Oida. - kompaktes, informatives und originelles Format - GAS befriedigend - Unlike einiger anderer Reviewer megafette Demobeats - ur kreative visuals Dieser Kanal is massiv underrated. Danke Wiederschaun.
yessss been waiting for this one for a while i've had the monologue for almost two years. it's a long learning curve, and as i'm living in a third-world country and can't afford another synth yet i've been able to go through it. you are right, i take it more as a groovebox than a mono synth. it's so much fun for me to try to make presets that have sequences made of melody and beats. i once made a sequence that kinda sound like i'd taken it out of a yoshi game, so maybe it's kinda good for chiptune? also you can find sweet spots with the lfo that make involuntary harmonies, and sometimes it sounds quite good if used for ambient. that jam was on point tho. also lmao the guy that said there were only 20 preset slots didn't even bother watching an explanatory video
I love my monologue. Wish it had pattern chain. But it still sounds amazing for the price. It also interfaces very well with my modular. Korgs filters and lfos shit on most mainstream competition. Monologue does acid better then almost every 303 clone and is way easier to program/ sequence with other gear. Plus the internal quantizer with microtuning is very nice.
If this is someone who "obviously has a hard time getting sounds he likes", I don't think I can handle the tracks he'll make when the ideal mono is found 🤯
You know that feeling when it's like a third of the parameter range that gives you sounds that perfectly do the job and it's just a matter of taste? I didn't get that feeling on the Monologue for sure;)
@@AudioPilz I do know what you mean, and agree 100% :) Although I do have fun programming it, it's like fighting for the steering wheel sonically. I just had to give you crap because your struggle sure wasn't evident in the music (which IMO was really something special)! ⚡🎧⚡
It's the ultimate beast for acid craziness and Drone sounds, yeah it has limitation, but it's also what makes it so good to use . honnestly i prefer use this one than to have to emulate a 303 with an expensively ridiculous eurorack that sound similar to another expensively ridiculous Eurorack, one of my favorite gear here, and i don't bought expensive synth , i want something else that sound and rocks it's simple like that and for that price the Monologue is a real beast .
Recently I have explored more deeply a lot of synths in comparison to Logues (Mono, Mini, XD, Pro). I arrived to the same conclusion as you. This family's genius is precisely in its limitations. For instance, the Mininova, can do "everything" but then you just stumble into random things, e.g. there's no easy way to change the LFO shape while playing. That's a stupid limitation in the middle of a huge complexity. But the Minilogue in contrast doesn't have basics as a modulation matrix or a sustain pedal input, and those are brilliant limitations: It's all in your panel, visible, at the reach of your hands, one knob per function, what you see is what you get. That's how you get an instrument to become an extension of your body.
I gotta say, you are a BRILLIANT individual. Placing people in boxes according to gear and displaying personality types associated with said gear? 🤯 It all began with the Simpsons and the TB-03, you’ve even included a part two of sorts in this video. 🤣😂🤣😂 👏🏽 Well done 👍🏽
I bought a Monologue as my intro to the world of Synths and it's still the only hardware synth I own. I love it but there are things that it just can't do. The simple envelope is really what I miss when making sounds. I use it mainly for it's phat bass noise. I'm surprised that you didn't mention the keyboard and that it starts on E rather than C.
I love the wicked cool tones I get from my Monologue. The more I play and tweak it, the more I love it. You can get some amazing complex tones out of it with a great set of loud speakers which are able to shake the walls.
Its cool this synth had a lot of character and gets a lot of love. I just could not get along with it compared to my Microbrute, Volca Bass, or Mother 32. Definitely a matter of taste. Solidly built for the price and a great value if you dig the sound
I felt my guts sinking when I saw the thumbnail... Best analog monosynth that I know of! Zero bad things under the hood. It does all it promises and then some. Edit: Yes, the sequencer lenght is quite short, but 16 steps for baselines is more than enough if you are not a jazz base player.
"Temptation of Ulie" Pretty appropriate since Berhinger had a personal feud against a journalist and mistreated their workers in China. This keyboard seemed interesting, and a decent size for small studios. I'll definitely focus more on the Minilogue XD or whatever it's call when I have room.
Dope Mono Synth. I use it to create UK Garage Square Wave Bass and some serious dark Techstep Bass tones which I then sample into my MPC for further tickling of the Foxes. As as sound design tool its great. I was aware of its limitations, but the bass this can make is seriously naughty. Great show brother, Glove from Berlin.
had no idea this was considered a bad synth. I’m no expert on synthesis, but I have noticed that synth people are often super critical. Seemingly, any synth could be considered bad
While I enjoy your reviews, I don’t think that this is such a bad synth! In fact, you inspired me to use it in new creative ways, and your song towards the end was full on brilliant! Great job 👏🏻
To me the main point of this synth (other than the lovely aggressive sound, which apparently is a point of contention), is the usability of the sequencer for live improv. Playing into the sequencer live feels insanely good, I purchased and returned a key step pro because it didn’t respond nearly as well as this when playing live, and having 4 automation lanes that you can record over whenever you want (plus the incredibly accessible slide function that you didn’t mention, I have not seen an interface better for adding slides on the fly) makes it possible to turn your improv around instantly to whatever direction you may want to take it. I suppose I would say this is a great instrument for improv and live performances, but I can see why people might want something else for studio/daw workflow. Also I must say that it responds very well to aggressive outboard drive effects, especially for acid lines.
Worth the wait, I knew it. For a change, I don't have a Monologue but I do really want one. That aggressive quality is ideal for dystopian, John Foxx-style noodlings.
I actually quite liked the sound of this synth , IMHO the filter was more aggressive than the mini , but I hated the keyboard starting at E so much that I just avoided playing it . Wish they would of made a module and saved the space just a bit probably would of kept it .
Excellent video . You commented at the end of this video that your search for the ideal mono synth continues. I'd love to see a round-up video where you make a decision (from all of the mono synths you've reviewed to date) and explain your rationale. That would be an entertaining video and would allow us to get a bit deeper into that impressive brain of yours. Keep them coming. Love your content.
excellent episode as always. feel marginally hurt as i love this synth. feel like you shouldve mentioned how the workflow is so easy and the built in oscilloscope is great for noobs to learn whats going on. the afx thing is obsessed with microtuning which this is very powerful at (i dont care). i feel like the presets misrepresent the instrument. downloading some basic ones kinda makes it easier to play with and actually use in compositions. Also, oscillator sinks excellent series of youtube videos are a must for any monologue peeps
My first synth and I still fucking love it! Even though I've amassed more "better" synths I still go back to the Monologue for a lot of my leads and basses. It's still a beast!
Excellent! I really like the Monologue. You can really get some good acid madness out of it. This is the 2nd piece of gear that I own that you've featured on your show, and I'm sure it won't be the last - hahaha
never tried this one, but minilogue is very nice from both UI and sounds - only thing where it sucks - is what sequences are being switched instantly without playing til end of the bar, like on volcas :(
For me there is a lot of potential in instant changeing patches while sequencer is runing. Only i wish for a way to hold a patch while searching for another.
Ok that intro tune was unmistakabley the korg monologue!. I bet u used it! Lol 😁 Loving ur channel my guy. And, although i LITERALLY live for every episode. Please make a ' bad gear 'software /vst au rtas edition! ' . Or.. some version of it Lol. Even if its for a 1 off😤 please and thankyou! 7:07 😆 complicated arp indeed.
It's not one-quater of a minilogue, it's a much-expanded volca bass / monotribe. Which looks amazing and always has. I think if it was marketed as a volca+ rather than a minilogue-, it would have managed expectations better. Still, the monosynth that actually got my money is the Waldorf Pulse 2. You should totally give it a look, it has the worst usage of a screen on any device ever, the 'FX' drive type was never implemented, and it does less / costs more than a blofeld at the same size. I love it.
Juan! I bought a blank aluminum monologue as my first synth. Never got much use out of it, but I can't get myself to sell it because it's a really good looking piece of gear.
It's shows like yours foretell the pending doom of traditional content providers/large corporations linked to terrestrial t.v. and other media outlets. High production values, intelligent quality content, made with real love of the subject matter, no matter how much money they throw at their bland vanilla offerings they can't compete.
I like it due to the memory bank and screen, what I don't really like that much is the filter it's kinda "squeaky" but some interesting sounds can be achieved with the INT knobs
I think despite its envelope (which is versatile enough for me) this little thing is absolutley packed with features: automation, audio input, oscilloscope, custom scales, ring mod, sync, audio range lfo, noise generator... It even does PWM, bro! Bread and butter sounds with appealing aesthetics and useful I/O. I never regretted buying this as a first hardware synth.
