Scott's Synth Stuff Episode 6: Modal Electronics Cobalt8 Review

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In this new series, I am talking about each of my synthesizers, starting with the simplest one, and moving upwards to the most complex.
In episode 6, we feature the Modal Electronics Cobalt8, an "Extended" Virtual Analog synthesizer with jaw-dropping sounds, a luxurious keybed and some innovative features.
A short demo track made entirely with the Cobalt8 can be heard at 48:51
Sample presets played are at 1:05:44
** Addendum **
I realized after this video was published, that I forgot to demonstrate two of the best features of the sequencer! You can set it up to "gate" so that pressing a key on the keyboard steps it through. You can also set it up so that it transposes the sequencer depending on the key you pressed.
Modal Cobalt8 Amazon: www.modalelectronics.com/coba...
Modal Cobalt8 Thomann: www.thomann.de/gb/modal_cobal...
Watch all the episodes:
Episode 1: Yamaha Reface CS • Scott's Synth Stuff Ep...
Episode 2: Korg Nu:Tekt NTS-1 • Scott's Synth Stuff Ep...
Episode 3: Roland GAIA SH-01 • Scott's Synth Stuff Ep...
Episode 4: Roland JD-Xi • Scott's Synth Stuff Ep...
Episode 5: Roland System-8 • Scott's Synth Stuff Ep...
Episode 6: Modal Cobalt8 • Scott's Synth Stuff Ep...
Episode 7: Novation Summit • Scott's Synth Stuff Ep...
0:00 Introduction
0:32 Why I bought this
4:19 Keybed
5:53 Enclosure
6:13 Rotary Controllers
7:59 Features overview
15:56 MODALapp
17:27 LFOs
19:35 Oscillators
26:40 Filters
28:05 Envelopes
29:32 Effects
33:56 Mod Matrix
37:30 Patch Management
38:52 Arpeggiator
41:52 Pattern Sequencer
48:16 System Settings
48:51 Sample Song
50:12 What I Like
55:06 What I Dislike
1:03:03 Conclusion
1:05:44 Sample Presets
#Modal #Cobalt8 #Review

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29 июн 2024

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Комментарии : 184

@bobblount 2 года назад

A review that turned into the best tutorial for the Cobalt 8. Brilliant presentation delivered at the right pace for us beginners and advanced players. Thank you

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Thank you for the very kind words! It's tough creating something that appeals to all audiences - you risk either boring the experts, or alienating the novices.

@cephlopodic Год назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff i see the respect you pay the unsatisfyables, anoying nitpickin dont like that COLOR BUT! it pains me to see you up to your HYDRASYNTH 🪼 in a sea of minusia you do not let phase you. but as far as who do you pleaze goes... YOURSELF PUFFINSTUFF. and know this sensei YOU CANT BE EVERYTHING TO EVERYONE . great to see modal on the real with upsnfirmware.😛 too. so jump into one of your electroglide hovercrafts and get loose muthagoose🦭

@arexpressionsphoto 2 года назад

Best breakdown of the Cobalt I’ve seen. Thanks!!

@ericsalt14 2 года назад

I’m completely new to the sequencer/synth world. This is hands down the most informative and concise video I’ve seen not only on the Cobalt 8, but in general. Well done!

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

I don't know if I'd call a 72 minute video "concise" but thank you. :) Episode 7 is on the way, I'm editing it right now...

@kurtholl 2 года назад

Great video! I bought the 8x a few days ago. This is not just a review, but really a full-fledged tutorial. Well done and clearly explained. This is helping me immensely with the workflow and learning curve on this fun but slightly overwhelming synth.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Once you get your head around the workflow, it's not overwhelming anymore. :)

@CARLTONMOXLEYUnknownpianist 2 года назад

Absolutely I talked myself out of the Mo DX

@meBrokenBody 2 года назад

Really appreciate your review, and the fact that it goes beyond a review. I (tried to) read the manual and I got more useful info from this video! I just got a Cobalt 8 couple days ago and I love it! And for all the same reasons that you mentioned! What a sound!! Now I’ll go experiment with the things I learned here. THANK YOU!!

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

I do quite a bit of research to make sure I am familiar with every feature, so that I can cover them - that said, there are still a couple things I missed/forgot to cover about this synth!

@meBrokenBody 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff any new video on that would be welcome!!! I did Subscribe and I'm interested! I'm just a bit afraid you make me find new ways to spend me money!! (That is so easy...) I was actually waiting for the Expressive E Osmose that is supposed to finally come out 2 years later. But the Cobalt convinced me otherwise. Do you know anything about that Osmose? (New MPE marvel) any interest?

@DJVasC 6 месяцев назад

Scott, this is by far the best in depth honest review on the Modal Cobalt on the web. I listened to it like a Podcast while doing other things. You did a great job to explain what you are doing so it is also verry infomative while only listening.

@ScottsSynthStuff 6 месяцев назад

Wow, thank you so much for those very kind words!

@mh22xv Год назад

Great work on showing of the modal. Thank you Scott!

@semyonboyk0 2 года назад

Your review is amazing. Thank you very much for the effort.

@hoover2615 2 года назад

Not only a great review, but also a great tutorial. Well done!

@benb440444 5 месяцев назад

Great video! I really like the sounds that you got in the demo song 🙂

@frankstetka7206 Год назад

I was on the fence about this unit until I watched your video and now I am heading down the Modal rabbit hole 🤣 thank you!

@11000038 2 года назад

Awesome video. Just bought this machine and love it. I will watch this again and again. Thanks. Subscribed.

@GeorgeFalconer 2 года назад

Very in depth and useful video. Thanks!

@Jean-Mi_Paradis 3 месяца назад

Awesome review!!! So much information in this video, unbelievable!! Very well made. This synth is on my bucket list, I have the other one, the Argon8X, which is such a great piece of hardware! You have a new subscriber! Thank you for making and sharing this video. All the very best!

@zedfield7736 2 года назад

Thanks so much for your review Scott, loved your clear and precise break whether in the negative or the positive,you definitely sold me on it,so much,l purchased one today,thanks again!!!🎼🙏

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

You're going to love it! It's a great synth for just noodling around on and coming up with ideas, I find.

@aseomg 2 года назад

Wow! That was a lot in 1hr. Like walking around Epcot, I need to find a bench to sit & chill for a minute.

@simonpeace 2 года назад

Cobalt 8M user here. Whilst the top panel has a slightly more compact layout it is sufficiently similar for this video to have opened up a whole extra set of dimensions that I just didn't know were there. Thank you. I can still do everything you can do from the top panel, and the app is identical. I'm using an external keyboard which performs (apparently) exactly as well as the inbuilt one. I've loved synths since the 70's, but the Cobalt series (enhanced by this incredibly informative and helpful video) have now become my all time favourites (well perhaps with the exception of an original Moog - which I don't own!). Great video - thank you.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Thanks for the kind words. I do find the Cobalt8 is a really inspirational machine, its relative ease of use makes it great for coming up with great sounds and patterns easily.

@Maelzelmusic Год назад

Thanks for you complete review/tutorial. I think I will be very pleased with my purchase as someone who knows basic synthesis but has never used a very complex one

@strykermoonfall2220 2 года назад

Very interesting! I live near the Sweetwater HW so I will check out the Cobalt very soon. Great video as always.

@floristube 2 года назад

Very good, you have a created a very good insight of the stuff, thanks

@Naotaku 2 года назад

Never been this tempted by a VA synth before. Great video!

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Go for it! :)

@frankstetka7206 Год назад

I sure did 😆 thanks to this video 🥳

@cephlopodic Год назад

do it - do it - youll ❤ it my sonic brother💥🛸

@HC_original Год назад

I have been on the fence about getting one. As it will be my first synth. Your video sealed it. I will be getting one. Fantastic and informative video

@HC_original Год назад

I really like how they are constantly updating these as well

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

Look at my video covering the V2 firmware update. They fixed all the complaints I had with this great synth!

@GermanPianoMan Год назад

Hi, very nice video format, i really like your approach! This one, System 8 or Summit are next on my shopping list along with the Deepmind 12, so this helps a lot, thank you!

@kierenmoore3236 10 месяцев назад

What did you get? My vote is for the Summit!

@painj4000 Год назад

Thanks for the great in depth look! I have a second-hand one arriving next week with the 2.0 firmware update installed that addresses a LOT of the issues yourself and other reviewers have raised (low gain gain level, no stereo FX etc). Looking forward to adding this lush hybrid instrument to my weird vintage/modern digital setup.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

I think you will love this synth, I do! I did a review on the V2 firmware here: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-hj0rRl3MMpQ.html

@darkpolarmusic 2 года назад

Great overview / review, thanks a lot. For people not watching the whole thing: In the "What I dislike"-chapter, Scott mention that arps can't be saved, but they actually get saved with the preset ;)

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Yup, you're totally right! Not sure why I said that, I must have had some difficulty doing it at some point? Thanks for correcting me!

@cephlopodic Год назад

a diamond in the rough mr stuff .🎹🩺🧠🫀🫁🏍🛰🚀🛸

@sjfarrell2.03 2 года назад

Good video. I picked the 37 key version up for £490 this week. My first piece of hardware and I couldnt be more pleased with it. Sounds fantastic, simple to use and a great keybed.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

It really does have an amazing sound and character to it, and the keybed is just a joy to play!

@gherat 2 года назад

Thanks a lot man, some of the features were really confusing to me. This vid is a great overview!

@sopasopasson5563 2 года назад

What a great , very informative worktrough - you are subbed ! Thx !

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Thank you for the kind words!

@JDSoundsets 2 года назад

Hey Scoot nice video glad you like the Cobalt :)

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

It's a great machine! Once you get your head around how it all works, it's really FUN to play and do sound design on!

@jonfromtheuk467 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff James has done many sound sets for Modal including some of the factory ones :-)

@alexanderscott6332 Год назад

I want to come to the states just to visit that Sweetwater store! Jeepers.

@briansherling5515 2 года назад

Excellent review! Wow! Your my new favorite reviewer. your communication skills are truly impressive. A British accent would really be nice but we can’t have everything. . (Hehe).

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Definitely not British, and I can't do the accent. Most people can't place my accent, actually. :)

@alanthompson5639 2 года назад

Thank you Scott for that tutorial The modal Cobalt 8X (61 Key) is my most recent purchase (Less than a week) and your video definitely helped me to better understand the architecture of how the synth functions are organized and setup. I wish I would have kept some of my old synths from my past (CZ 101, Sequential circuits Multitrack, Roland D-50, just to name a few) I made a conscious choice to slim down my collection, and move into the workstation realm of keyboarding, but I thankfully still have My Juno 106 along with my XP-50 workstation, and of course I am thrilled to have the Modal in my very small keyboard family. BTW, I am blown away by your collection of gadgets, and gizmo's. The question I have for you is, What do you think of software synths and Midi controllers for making music? Thank you again for your expert video's and educating the keyboard community. in my humble opinion, the learning curve is quite high for newer products, and you help to flatten the curve. Much appreciated

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Thank you for the very kind words! I do have some soft synths, and the only one I find myself using with any regularity is Vital - simply because it can produce some otherworldly sounds. But when I want to make music, or do sound design, I always reach for a hardware synth. Maybe it's because I get more of a sense of immediacy from twisting a knob and hearing the change, without having to work with a computer? Or maybe it's because it's how I've done it since the1980's? I suppose it's what you're used to and comfortable with.

@paulguy2545 2 месяца назад

There aren’t as many videos covering my COBALT 5S as there are with the 8 (probably because the 8 has been around longer) but both synths are very similar in terms of functionality. For anything that’s lacking, there’s usually a workaround in the DAW, like you could for example record an extra Audio Track containing one more oscillator on top of the other ones recorded in the previous track! It’s a great shame Modal Electronics went out of business because they made some pretty unique products that combined some much-needed solutions hardly anyone else in the synthesizer market was covering - the Modal App for example that can not only run on Mobile & the Desktop give people a detailed at-a-glance view of everything going on within a patch, plus how a particular Modal synth is set up, and providing the best of both worlds: the Hardware being controllable by a user-friendly VST plugin. For a small company they made quite an impact on the market I think and will be missed by many of us!

@PavelLitkinBorisovich 10 месяцев назад

Very good review, thanks, learned a lot! Small suggestion, maybe it will be nice to add bookmarks for the useful features, for example I forgot where you mentioned how to latch chords and need to rewind through whole video again.

@janpoulsen4481 9 месяцев назад

Really good review and I have a lot if the same experiences, both good and bad. As far as output volume, you can use Shift-Volume to increase the Patch Gain, which, for whatever reason, seems to be set very low for most of the factory patches.

@MusicOfDreamweaver 3 месяца назад

I love the fact that you found the aftertouch too hard as I have the Argon 8X and found it much easier to use than my Roland A800s. You got to have muscles to use those! The modal is a treat in comparison!!

@semyonboyk0 2 года назад

Finally decided to pull a trigger on this synth. It's everything I've been expecting based on your review: great keybed, cool unique sounds, hit or miss effects - absolute joy to play overall. Really appreciate you taking time to film such an in-depth review, Scott! Edit: by the way, I'm not sure if it was added after you filmed the review, but you absolutely CAN use Modalapp as VST with one USB cable only, no DIN cables needed. I've tried it in, and it both uses it for communication with the app, and sending/receiving MIDI data from/to the DAW.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

I suspect it depends on the DAW? I know for me, if ModalApp is using the MIDI port to talk to the synth as a VST, my DAW can't use the same MIDI port to send/receive MIDI data. That's why I have it connected both by USB and DIN MIDI.

@janpieternieman5295 2 года назад

Great Channel Great Video! I also own a Cobalt8X. One night i was just not looking what I was doing, just mess with the encoders. And after an hour or so I came across the most weirdest sounds ever. I woudnt call it a classic but it sure is a hidden gem imho! Subbed to your channel. I own a Cobalt 8x Yamaha SY77 Korg 01/w and a berhinger tr08. Still new to hardware and still busy with settup a studio. No Pc daw at this moment.

@janpieternieman5295 2 года назад

And I own a Microfreak which is also a hidden gem.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Sometimes the accidents create the best sounds!

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

I agree, the Microfreak is a tremendously deep little box!

@unisonosc1617 17 дней назад

For any synth with patch memory I much prefer endless encoders. The Modal and the Elektron are the nicest feeling encoders out there imo.

@2tallcharles99 2 года назад

Oh man, this is exactly what I need because I'm heavily considering getting a Cobalt8X. I'm between that and the Hydrasynth - I want a good feeling keybed and 61 keys, so I was leaning toward the Cobalt, until you mentioned the mono reverb. Now I'm torn again - the Hydrasynth is more expensive and only has 49 keys but I'd really love a delicious reverb! I guess I could just use Ableton's reverb but sometimes I like to sit and play the synth without having to do anything on my computer. Anyway, thanks a bunch for taking the time to make this video.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

The Hydrasynth (watch for its video to come soon!) has a good - not great - reverb as well. Neither of them approach the spectacular reverb you'll find in the Summit. Honestly, with the other stereo effects (delay, voice panning) you get on the Cobalt8, you don't actually notice the mono reverb unless you have something that is using a lot of stereo, then tapers off with a long reverb tail. You then notice the shift from a stereo sound to a mono one - but in a mix, are you going to hear it? And like you said, you can easily use a (higher quality) reverb in your DAW if need be.

@2tallcharles99 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff Thanks for the reply. I thought I had heard that about the Hydrasynth, and think I'll survive with the Cobalt's reverb. Stereo and ping-pong delay will make up for the deficiencies. I'll definitely keep my eye out for the Hydrasynth video 👍

@2tallcharles99 2 года назад

I forgot to ask - what are your thoughts on there not being any drive effects or distortion on the cobalt8x?

@ben1210 Год назад

Drive and stereo reverb in the V2 update. Cheers Modal!

@reginaldbraithewaite5833 2 года назад

One thing that surprises me is your emphasis on virtual analog. I understand your interest in pure digital synths like the Hydrasynth (and I agree about the keyboard), but in a time when Arturia, Cherry Audio and others have made VSTs that do virtual analog so well, I look for synths to cover parts of the sonic palette that VSTs can't -- true analog, the new Vector Synth (because of the amazing interface and complex sound design), etc. What is it about virtual analog that made you say, I want that to dominate my synth arsenal? Side note: My favorite keybed so far is on the Kawai VPC-1. I've played piano all my life, and I'm an old studio musician, so I like the contrast between the Hydrasynth for semi-light action and the VPC for piano-style action. Because I have a controller, I buy a lot of modules to control with it (many of them limited to cover a particular range or color): The Prophet 10, three analog monos with different frequency emphasis -- Moog Sirin, Dreadbox Typhon and Roland SE-02 -- Elektron Analog RYTM, the Vector, a vintage Prophet VS Module, etc. I miss my old DX7II, but nearly every modern digital synth has FM synthesis capabilities, so I'll resist getting a Digitone for now.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

I have quite a few VST synths that emulate analog, and some make some incredible sounds...but I find that for the most part, I never use them? Why? I think it's just something about reaching out and moving a slider, turning a knob, while bashing a key, to tweak that perfect sound. I don't get the same...feel? from sliding a mouse around and adjusting parameters. I know you can get generic controllers to control VST parameters, but it's not the same as a dedicated knob-per-function (or, in many cases like this, knob-per-two-or-three functions) synth. As for the old DX7, the Montage/MODX can do that (you can literally load DX7 patches into them), plus so much more with its FM-X engine. I have all the factory patches plus MANY DX7 expansion patches in my MODX!

@SWATTECHNOLOGIES Год назад

Extremely thorough Scott thank you. Been researching my next synth and this is high on my list for sure. The only thing I fail to understand these days is with top notch VST synths available with theoretical unlimited polyphony, how is it in 2022 hardware synths we still have voice stealing occurring in polyphony? My guess is in terms of hardware it is processing cost implementation/limitations? As for effects, without parallel effects (thanks for this Scott) I would probably not use them but add them in post-production. And no categories for presets is painful. Mobile app BIG plus. My other alternative is the Deepmind which allows parallel effects, up to 4 in a row effects or bypass of effects for straight analog out but with a cheaper key bed and no doubt cheaper internals.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

The Deepmind has a somewhat limited true analog engine, with a very capable digital FX engine tacked onto it. Without the FX, the Deepmind is a middling synth, but with that extensive collection of FX, it can sound pretty great. Polyphony limitations on digital synths is entirely down to the speed and processing capability of the hardware. They have to have the processing capability to simulate oscillators, envelopes, filters, etc. for each voice. At some point they have to make a decision on cost of digital processing capability vs polyphony. For FX, reverb is definitely the killer - good digital reverb takes a LOT of processing power. You can get by with less processing load, but the reverb will definitely not sound as good. Compare the reverb you hear in the Modal synths running on its DSP, compared to the reverb on the Summit, which is running on an extremely powerful FPGA. Dedicated DSP's (i.e. Deepmind) also have an edge over emulated reverb done in software/firmware.

@Greebstreebling 2 года назад

Really like your reviews, just to note this instrument is the Cobalt8X I think, which has more keyboard and higher cost.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Correct, but unlike many other manufacturers (cough Roland) who charge hundreds of dollars more for an extra 11 plastic keys, the price difference between the different sizes of Cobalt8 (and Argon8) are actually quite minimal.

@jonfromtheuk467 2 года назад

There ARE 3 preset global output presets . From factory it is set at number 2 - if you need more gain, try using number 3 "saturate" and that will bring up the overall gain.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Yes, there is an internal gain - but the problem isn't the gain internally - it's the physical (electrical) output level at the output jacks. The internal gain setting feeds into an internal limiter, which then feeds to the output amp. If you increase the internal gain, you run up against that limiter, so you either get squashed (compressed) sound, or in worst cases, clipped sound. Ideally, there would be a gain setting for the final output amplifier, so it just amplified what was already coming out of it.

@aquaticborealis4877 2 года назад

The chord inversion feature is very nice. The Modalapp is awesome. The low volume on the line outs is annoying. I have an Argon 8 and I went through every patch and turned up the patch gain.

@2tallcharles99 2 года назад

Thanks!

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Wow, thanks so much for that! Unexpected! :)

@DG-ss1gc 11 месяцев назад

I think this may be the synth that made daft punk retire . There was a rant in a late interview where one of the boys goes into a little rant about algorithms robbing creativity. So I think that’s why they took a huge chunk of money, paid Giorgio Morodor to do a completely analog album , and then hung up their robo hats. I don’t blame them. I’ll never forget it was guy-man I think , but you know the sound when you accidentally miss a plug and touch the 1/4 male connector to the rim or nut of the female ? He did that once during a show in France , it was super loud , but then played it like an instrument. Different versions of the legend tell it was on purpose or accidental, it’s sort of myth now, like the birth of Apollo.

@hairyhunk44 2 года назад

I bought the 8 and its not that intuitive to me, I keep wanting to turn nobs that are set and have to keep hitting the set button to change. Your video on the Cobalt 8 is the best I found and saved it for reference and subscribed. Thank you!

@11000038 2 года назад

Thanks

@kevrenshaw6177 Год назад

I wouldnt sell my JDXi for anything and I own and have owned a shed load of synths. Im liking the Cobalt 5s !!

@666JGNotts Год назад

excellent video. many thanks. Has the low volume output been addressed in any firmware updates?

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

No, you can get around it with patch levels, but it does reduce your dynamic range (and gets you closer to clipping) if you do.

@666JGNotts Год назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff OK thanks for the reply. That's a shame.

@sectiondrecords4580 Год назад

Thanks for the informative review! Subscribed I don't understand why more companies haven't implemented poly after touch. Ensoniq VFX-SD and SD-1 had it in 1990. One thing though is that editing midi with poly after touch is tedious.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

I think it's purely a matter of expense. Now that it's become more well known, I suspect we'll see more and more synths with it. Cubase is not bad for editing PolyAT, at least not the NRPN PolyAT that comes from my Hydrasynth.

@tomwawer5714 Год назад

Thanks for great review! I’m eyeing Cobalt8 as my first hardware synth. Do you think it makes sense to use a Casio Celviano piano to control synth? I just happen to have one and it’s quite nice. Or it’s better to use original synth keyboard?

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

Honestly, the Cobalt8 is not designed for a weighted piano-action keybed. Not to say that it won't work, because it will, but the sounds and response of the Cobalt8 is really intended for a synth action keybed. The Cobalt8's Fatar keybed is a really, really nice one - and for the price, it really can't be beat.

@tomwawer5714 Год назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff Thank you very much - clear!

@alanthompson5639 Год назад

Hello again Scott, I have another question for the cobalt 8X regarding the minus Y joystick feature. In the Modal app, minus 64 is the lowest number, but what I can't understand is how to go lower. For example, I wanted to bend the note down to infinity, where no sound is heared, like 1 octave below the range of the keyboard, but I guess I am not doing something correctly. That same question is for the glide feature. I know glide is modal's version of pornamento, just called something different. The interesting thing is that using glide is a much better, and more controlled way to bend notes much more smoothly over using the joystick. Anyway, like you, I too was a little frustrated with patch management on the cobalt, so I painstakingly went through each patch Starting at Bank 0, thru Bank 4, and made a master list of what each patch sounded like, and then compiled the similar patches onto another list for easy reference. So, now I have a much better idea about where to find mostly all my similar patch sounds and numbers related to each sound. However, I skipped over those quirky weird sounds that seem more like sound effects, and would rarely be used in any practical fashion in my opinion. This video you made is invaluable to me as a learning tool, and yes I agree, the learning curve takes time with anything new, but your video really helps shorten up that process. I certainly hope my comment reaches you, and that you can shed some light onto my questions. Thank you Scott for doing what you do to help others to get more out of their gear, and to start enjoying the music making process. Cheers and blessings to you.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

Typically anytime you want to add more to something than a control gives you, you can get around it by duplicating the functionality in the mod matrix - and that applies to any synth with a mod matrix, not just the Cobalt8. If you use too much of it, it can get steppy, depending on the resolution of the source controller.

@alexhooks1131 2 года назад

Hi Scott, awesome video. How would this pair with the Summit?

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

It actually does well, there's not a lot of overlap. To me, the Cobalt8 is more of an in-your-face digital exotic sound machine, whereas the Summit excels at lush pads and very analog sounds awash in reverb. Not to say that they are ONLY good for those types of sounds, but that's where I think their strengths lie.

@michaelegert1284 Год назад

Now im not sure what i should by as my first synthesizer. First i thought i would by the Deepmind 12. But this cobalt 8x is realy damn good too😅

@philipTOMPSETT 8 месяцев назад

I’m torn between buying one while I still can and loss of support for the app. 😢 I hope they can pull through. Great vid thanks

@EggZema_ Год назад

Very good informative video. But a bit too many advertisement interruptions, but that could be me.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

That's RU-vid doing that, unfortunately. I don't have any control over it. If you get RU-vid Premium, all the ads go away on every video you watch - that's what I ended up doing.

@beatnikcafe 2 года назад

I’ve recently been checking out the Cobolt and Hydrasynth. I really love the sounds of the Deepmind, Digitone, and Blofeld. Each have their strengths, one big plus for the Blofeld is that it’s multitimbral, which would be great in my setup pairing it with a Digitakt. So here’s my question, between the Cobolt and Hydrasynth which would you keep if it could only be one or the other? Also, I’m looking more specifically at the Hydra Explorer or Cobolt 5. The reason being, I want something compact that is easy to travel with and something that I can keep nearby when working in my home studio. The Argon hasn’t really intrigued me much and so I almost slept on even looking at the Cobolt until the smaller version was announced, but now I really like the sound and workflow. It seems the Hydrasynth can do more and is deeper in regards to sound design, which for me would be a net good thing, it looks complex at first glance but seems to be well organized for productive sound design, do you think my assessment is accurate? Thanks for the review, I really appreciate it.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

I took looked at the Deepmind, and yes, it can do some interesting sounds...but at its core, it's not much more than a Juno-106 with a bunch of digital FX tacked on the end - and it's the FX that give it its sound. My Hydrasynth and Cobalt8 are probably my two favorite synths. But if I could have only one, it would be the Hydrasynth, no question. The Cobalt8 is easier to use, but the Hydrasynth is far more capable - but with that capability comes complexity. Both have excellent keybeds, but the Hydrasynth has poly aftertouch, where the Cobalt8 has channel aftertouch only (and it's pretty stiff).

@beatnikcafe 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff Thanks for the reply. I'm leaning towards the Hydrasynth from the options I've been considering for the reasons you mentioned and many others. The more I look at the Hydra the more depth I find. I'm reading the manual today, at least browsing through and it's really complete.

@egghead4117 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff No, it's a JUNO 106 with an incredibly powerful digital modulation matrix. I'm sick of hearing how the sounds only come from the effects (which themselves can be modulation destinations). I'm curious what counts as tacked on? As opposed to what?

@kierenmoore3236 10 месяцев назад

@@egghead4117 NO … It’s a DERPMIND 🤪😉

@RobKeay1 2 года назад

Thanks so much for such an informative video. I’m just now shifting from using Acid loops and iOS soft synths (I have over 100), to a Digitadt, Wavestate, Modwave and Cobalt 8. On my latest album “ Ellis Dee” , I finished it with the new gear. You have helped me for the next LP. Please check out the latest on Spotify, etc. Rob Keay

@specialkcitizen6263 Год назад

I sent back a Roland Fantom 06 just this week. The keybed is total crap, its light weight was pushed as a great new feature but it actually just felt so plastic and cheap and really just revealed its self as a a big box with lots of decades old presets. Roland just seem to create new boxes but fill them all up with the same sounds.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

I can't argue with that, Roland really has been resting on its laurels for some time. But I do think there is a place in the market for the more inexpensive, lightweight Fantom-0 series, just like there is for the lightweight, inexensive MODX.

@Tvaroh 2 года назад

Thanks for the nice detailed review. One thing I didn't get is why you can't use Modal app via USB from your DAW. I do that and it works fine, just don't start the modal app separately.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

My DAW is already talking to the Cobalt8 via USB MIDI, so when I try to open the ModalApp, it can't use the USB MIDI connection, as the DAW is already utilizing it. Instead I switched my DAW to use my 5-pin MIDI interface to talk to the Cobalt8, and reserved USB for the ModalApp. That means the Cobalt8 is connected by both USB and DIN MIDI at the same time.

@reginaldbraithewaite5833 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff: The way I use the Cobalt interface with my three preferred DAWs (Logic, Live and Reaper) is as a VST plugin: You open it on the VST track you're using. My problem with the interface is that you can only have one instance, so multiple instances of the Cobalt (not for multitracking, obviously, but in terms of keeping the arrangement routing coherent) means recording audio, changing the destination of that related MIDI track, then opening a new Cobalt VST track and recording that as audio, etc. I'm OK with using the Cobalt as one color among many in a track, but I wish the software wasn't so possessive!

@brettmiller7366 4 месяца назад

I was just curious, on your demo song you mentioned everything was from the cobalt 8X, how did you produce the drum sounds from the cobalt?

@ScottsSynthStuff 4 месяца назад

Most synthesizers are capable of making drum sounds. The snare and high hat are just filtered white noise with different VCA envelopes on them. The kick drum I show how to do in this video: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-t05qBPRXKXU.html

@MuLtI1970_MIDI_channel Год назад

Hi Scott, I have a question regarding the Cobalt 8. when connecting the Cobalt 8M to my pc via usb i can use the modalapp, no problem with that, but for the connection to a tablet, how does this happen? also via usb meaning a usb C to B cable or do i miss something? I connected the Cobalt via a usb hub and it connected to my pc app instantly, however when i connected my tablet to the same usb hub it does'nt connect to the modalapp on the tablet. Does it need a single connection via usb to only one device or is there something i overlooked? Many thanks in advance. Cheers.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

I have not tried it on the tablet, but apparently you need an OTG adapter: support.modalelectronics.com/hc/en-gb/articles/360009247037-MODALapp-Information-for-Android-users-

@MuLtI1970_MIDI_channel Год назад

Thank you, and with a usb-c to usb-b cable it works perfect. This off course sadly means that you can only connect it to one device at a time.

@kamilkrzys Год назад

Hi Guys, I have just bought the 8X version and have a question to another owner of a Modal Cobalt. Is the mod joystick wobbly on your unit? Does it rotate and have slight movement (a bit loose)? I have also noticed that some encoders have slightly less resistance than others (and are a bit wobbly too).

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

My mod joystick has a very slight bit of free play, not enough that I noticed before I just went to check it after reading this. Some of the encoders have slightly different resistance, but not noticeably so.

@11000038 2 года назад

Me again! I think Modal should send you a cheque every month. You have helped me no end setting up mods. The Modal 1 minute vids are rubbish and the manual (a printed version isn't included) assumes you know what you are doing already. I think your interpretation of the beast's strengths and weaknesses seem spot on after me being on owner for just over a month. I think this is great synth which punches way past its price point for sounds, keyboard polyphony, and build quality. Like you I have found the menu system less than intuitive for many functions but thanks to you I now can set up all sorts of things through the excellent app. Incidentally I have been in touch via email to Modal support and they have been very helpful and reasonably prompt. I may even buy a desktop too to layer sounds! Can anyone help me latch the ARP? I know about Velo and sustain but it won't reset with a new key trigger for me. Thanks again!

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

When you hold down the Velo button and press the "Note/Y+/Sustain" button - that will toggle the sustain on and off. That will act as if you have pressed a sustain pedal. When you play notes, they will be ADDED to the currently playing arpeggio. To get the Arp latch mode, press and hold down the Velo button, and then press and HOLD "Note/Y+/Sustain" button for one second. Its light will start to flash, and now you are in traditional arp latch mode, where the arp will retrigger with each keypress.

@11000038 2 года назад

Scott' Synth Stuff. Brilliant. It was the ARP latch that I needed. I just found the quick guide card which probably has this gem but I gave up just laughing at the convoluted ways to name a patch. I still find I need to use the front panel and the app to do that but at least it's do-able. Thanks for you excellent help and channel!

@Motownisyourtown 2 года назад

I have the Cobalt 8 and it's great. This 8X looks so empty though on the right. Why didn't they just centre the chassis?

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Actually I think it makes sense most players are going to play with their right hand and adjust knobs with their left, and it gives an open space on the right side where a tablet or small laptop can be placed to run the Modalapp if you desire.

@Motownisyourtown 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff I'm sure there's a practical element to it, and function should take priority, but it just looks disjointed to me. I prefer the smaller one. For me it's the perfect size. I play guitar in a band and I have the synth to the right of me and it's the perfect size for me to play some lead lines in the more dancey songs we do without having to think too hard about anything. What a time we live in, right?

@CARLTONMOXLEYUnknownpianist Год назад

I'm waiting for my keyboard to come in should be here tomorrow I got a dynamite deal $710 demo at Sweetwater 61 Keys

@ben1210 Год назад

Love my cobalt, my only criticism is that the encoders on mine are pretty wobbly, although they function perfectly. I don't know anyone else who owns one, how do you find them?

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

It's pretty normal. They aren't rock solid, and some people complain about them, but I've never had an issue.

@ben1210 Год назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff guess after the hydra, everything else suffers in comparison! I've had no issues in use, wouldn't hesitate to recommend it if you want an analogue poly (with some really great sounding extras) but don't have the budget

@Angelstarscotland Год назад

I've just bought a Cobalt 61

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

That's great, Marc! It works just a bit differently than a lot of other synths, but you can see the decisions they made when designing the UI make sense for making it easier to do sound design on it. I quite like the Cobalt8!

@Angelstarscotland Год назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff just driving home with it. It was a second hand bargaini

@zoned7609 Год назад

I really hope they add new filters or reverb, I was so disappointed in both for my cobalt8x

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

They added a new reverb to the Argon, so I am crossing my fingers...

@zoned7609 Год назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff !!! That's great! Is it a normal reverb or shimmer?

@ywenp 2 года назад

I've been too finding the sound of the Cobalt8 great. But these ground noise and audio level issues kind of deter me, because what's the point of having a great sounding synth if it picks up noise? (plus given it's a full digital synth, why no audio over USB? That would fix all these problems) You've briefly mentioned the similarities with the Hydrasynth in terms of overall wave morphing, I'd be interested to know what you find more convenient/better sounding in terms of sound design on the Cobalt8 when compared to the Hydrasynth? (because to me the hydrasynth seems strictly more capable, the UI seems better, the arpeggiator is more featureful, etc). I know Hydra doesn't have a sequencer e.g. but I'm not taking that into account here. I get that for a given sound you want you can get to it faster on the Cobalt8 because it's thought to make sound design quick with the ready algorithms etc, but it is really that much beneficial? Re the app, I'd think that if one's appealed to use it instead of the physical front panel it would actually be a drawback: the reason of getting a hardware synth is to be able to do hands-on sound design with the gear (especially if it's a fully digital synth!). I'm not saying "why buy gear when you have VSTs + a regular midi keyboard?", I'm saying "why buy gear if you end up controlling it like a VST?".

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

The low audio level is not a wonderful feature for sure. That could be compensated for with balanced outputs to help reject noise, but those are absent as well. So you do have to be careful with running your audio and grounds with this synth - that said, I get a noise-free sound out of it in my recordings. If you view my "Edge of the Ocean" video here ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-6OFDLOdm4-U.html it has a TON of Cobalt8 in it, and no noise. The Hydrasynth can morph between waveforms, but being that it is a (single cycle) wavetable synth, you can have up to 8 different waveforms that it can morph between for EACH oscillator, compared to the Cobalt8's two (one per oscillator). So for morphing sounds, the Hydrasynth has it all over the Cobalt8 - but the Cobalt8 isn't intended to be a wavetable synth. As for sound design, the Hydrasynth is definitely more complex and capable, while the Cobalt8 makes things simpler and more accessible. They definitely have different characters, and which I would use really would depend on what kind of sound I'm looking for. I think the Cobalt8 is a really good balance between physical and app controls. Most other synths, you get some knobs on the panel, and everything else is buried in a menu somewhere. On the Cobalt8, you get most of the important stuff on knobs on the panel, and you can menu dive the rest - or use the ModalApp to avoid the menus. Best of both worlds. Using the ModalApp as a VST gives you the benefit of adding automation of the parameters directly into the DAW, making it far more flexible.

@ywenp 2 года назад

Thanks! > Most other synths, you get some knobs on the panel, and everything else is buried in a menu somewhere. Yes that's the type of synth I want to avoid. That's why, even if I'm really tempted by the Hydra (esp. the new Explorer version because I like portable stuff), I'm wary of it because it looks a bit menu-divy (even though the global UI seems very well thought out).

@georgehall6051 2 года назад

I notice that on your demo at 22:59 you have a FM Tri Squ. My Cobalt 8 doesn't have this! It does however have an RM Tri Squ which doesn't sound half as good!! Any ideas???

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

It was added, along with five other oscillator algorithms, with the 1.1 firmware update. Update the firmware on your Cobalt8 and you will see them!

@georgehall6051 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff Thanks Scott that's really helpful!!

@georgehall6051 2 года назад

I've updated the firmware and absolutely love the FM algorithms - one of it's best features imo!!

@Jason75913 2 года назад

Great review. You complain about unbalanced outputs, everything behind you in the vid have unbalanced outputs as well. Modal added Patch Gain to increase volume further, I think it was last year. Better outboard reverbs are too easy to come by. But a nicer reverb would have been welcome. Only the Opsix, Model:Cycles, current Korg workstations, and Summit/Peak get decent reverbs, but even they pale in comparison to outboard effects. The synth engine takes priority, in my mind, so I'd prefer they skimp out on or straight up omit built-in FX if need be, I'd rather deal with that myself.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Actually the System-8, Summit, Wavestate and Hydrasynth behind me all have balanced outputs. The Summit reverb is probably the best reverb I've heard on a synth. But I agree - most synth reverbs are good enough to get the sound idea across, but you're far better off using outboard for that. But having FX on board really helps in finding a sound when doing sound design. Sometimes something that sounds thin, dull and uninspiring just comes alive when echo/reverb/chorus/whatever is added in. Think Juno-106. :)

@Jason75913 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff It's funny that the Peak/Summit get such a nice reverb when the Ultranova/Mininova reverb is one of the worst around, even the reverb in Argon8/Cobalt8 is nicer to listen to, and I don't even like the Modal reverb

@frankstetka7206 Год назад

Well it is my understanding that Novation listens to their customers and this is exactly why their newer products are better naturally.

@rafaelikenaga 2 года назад

Im debating between the Cobalt 8M and the Minilogue XS module as my first Synth my sound design knowledge is very limited, Ive been watching video and seems that the Cobalt is more flexible but Minilogue is more robust with drive and better filter. My music is more on the soft melodic side, would you give me an opinion? Thank you so much for your time and video!

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

For soft, melodic music, that's definitely leaning towards the wheelhouse of the analog Minilogue - not that it can't also be harsh and nasty as well. Likewise, the Cobalt8 can do lush, graceful sounds too. For an introduction to sound design, the Minilogue is likely going to a bit easier to wrap your head around, but as you progress, you'll find it has more limitations. The Cobalt8 has a lot of sound-design-friendly "helper" features that help you create usable sounds without the minutia you will find in other synths, and its capabilities in sound design can definitely take you a bit farther than the Minilogue.

@rafaelikenaga 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff Hi Scott Thank you so much for taking the time to reply to me, I think that makes a lot of sense and im leaning towards the Cobalt, just thinking I wanna get some external effects to go with it now which I think it’ll be another rabbit hole I’ll have to dive for a couple of weeks. Thank you again! Raf

@AppliedDefenseConceptsLLC 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff For vocal-driven songs like EDM pop design, would the Cobalt 8x be a good choice over the Minilogue XD? I've been looking at both of these and melodic is the way I want to go but some people say the XD makes sounds easier (for a beginner since I am first a vocalist), but some say the features on the cobalt are better. What do you feel?

@frankstetka7206 Год назад

I think you have answered your own question here. Scott states this in other replies. The Korg is certainly easier to use and sounds great but I went with the Modal.

@kierenmoore3236 10 месяцев назад

Which did you go for? As a beginner keys player and loving analog sound, I’d go for the Minilogue/XD.

@CARLTONMOXLEYUnknownpianist 2 года назад

Where is the 88 keys do you think they will make one soon??????????????????????????????????

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

I highly doubt it. The Cobalt8 and Coblat8x use semi-weighted Fatar keybeds. 88 key keybeds are normally fully weighted, and used on synths that produce piano sounds, or workstations like the MODX or Montage that can also do piano sounds very well.

@valleyken 2 года назад

Sounds good. I like the sample song and the presets. But the user interface is way too complicated for my taste.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Like I mentioned in the video, I really wasn't gelling with the user interface at first, and was starting to think that this was going to be just a "preset machine" because of it. But the more I used it, and the more familiar I got with it, the faster I got doing sound design, and I really started to like it. And on top of that, the ModalApp makes it MUCH easier to work with as well.

@brianhoffmann2403 Год назад

Im interest is in real applications within the daw; and how well to play live...

@ytheeasinine 2 года назад

How does the sound compare to the virus?

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

To me, the Virus sounds more dated. I went to Sweetwater this summer to play the Virus, fully expecting to walk away wanting to buy one. To my surprise, I was somewhat underwhelmed, and the Cobalt8, which I had never even considered, is the one that blew me away with its sound. It doesn't hurt of course that the Cobalt8 is a quarter the price of the Virus, and you also have to consider that the Virus has been abandoned by its parent company.

@kierenmoore3236 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff … Yes, Kemper (the man behind the Virus) is making a ‘virtual guitar amp’ machine, instead, these days …

@joshuaswannmusic6462 2 года назад

I like this synth but the low volume output is a dealbreaker for me. I’ll be going with a Prophet Rev 2

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

It's only rarely been an issue for me - I have the gain turned up on my mixer for it, and in the rare case where the patch is not loud enough for my DAW, I will turn up the patch gain setting for that patch. That said, I do wish it had hotter outputs, as it makes it much easier to deal with - you can easily turn something down, you can't really turn it up easily. Plus turning up preamp/mixer gain also amplifies any noise being produced.

@joshuaswannmusic6462 2 года назад

Absolutely. Your review saved me a lot of disappointment. I really do like the sound of this synth though. I can’t help but wonder if the volume issue plagues the new Colbalt 5S. Many thanks!

@ben1210 Год назад

Fixed with the V2 update in case anyone was wondering

@scottyhehehe5367 2 года назад

OK, so Cobalt8 or Korg OpSix? Can't decide!

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

They are a similar price, I would go with the Cobalt8. It is easier to program, the keybed and build quality is SO much better. That said, you can now buy a VST of the OpSix for $150!

@scottyhehehe5367 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff Thank you for that info and recc! 😀

@liothomasart 2 года назад

Crazy how the virus underwhelmed you and you went for the Cobalt. Very baffling....different strokes for different folks but the Virus is way more deep and outstanding than the Cobalt. For sure. This video is of quality nonetheless , I got an argon 8 but there are so few tutorials about it that I need to watch tuts about the Cobalt. Seems like modal didn't really put that much attention in the argon.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

I was really wanting to love the Virus, I thought it would be just perfect for what I do, but I found it just...obscure and felt dated. Which I suppose it is, and is pretty much abandoned by Access.

@kierenmoore3236 10 месяцев назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff Yep - Kemper shifted his focus to guitar amp emulation, after the Access series …

@cephlopodic Год назад

do i have2 have a daw to run modal app scottystuff? i plan 2 record trk on trk - onto my laptop -NO daws. am i delusional mo?

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

Absolutely not, no DAW required. It works as a DAW plugin, but you can also run it as a standalone application (that's how I run it) or even on an iPad!

@cephlopodic Год назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff 🦘 thank you brotherstuff. i do believe MODAL should REPLACE that quick divin:' "today ill explain the arpeggiator function of th e cobalt8 in the 30 seconds left after this lethargic introduction but before my outro but after i namedrop (,DEDMAU5🥰). though by then im sure your will 2 live may have left you while your inspiration 4 edification , so powerfull LESS than ONE minute ago has gone 4 ever having mistakingly looked into my cold dead eyes ,its structural coherance (( @the atomic level )) will never return.... i will in the next MODAL QUICKDIVE🎹🤐😭🤮💀..

@angelog.spicolaiii8021 2 года назад

U can say that again about Roland's kybds they're not that great as far as their newer synth action one's while their digital pianos have some of the best (couple of midi controllers & old S-series aren't bad either for semi-weighted; otherwise most of'em including some of the classic analogs are slacky) Don't hydrasynth & cobalt both use Fatar keybeds? thanx dude

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

The Cobalt uses Fatar keybeds. ASM's Hydrasynth uses their own, custom-designed keybed. They are owned by Medeli, a very large music instrument manufacturer, so they have the resources to manufacture their own keybeds, unlike many synth manufacturers.

@angelog.spicolaiii8021 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff yep I know about Medeli Kurz' has used'em(most have Fatar's) didn't know they owned ASM though because of that makes hydrasynth more desirable & unique dude

@jandoedel1012 2 года назад

I don't think this synth doesn't add anything special to your collection of synths. For my taste the looks are fine. It's great to have a Fatar keybed. Soundwise, I am realy not convinced by what I've heard so far on youtube. This synth might be good for someone who is a starter with synthesizers, but not as an addition as in your case. Well...that's my humble opinion ofc :p

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

On the surface you would think that. I thought the exact same thing when it came out, and that's why I didn't buy one. A year later, I got the chance to play one at Sweetwater, and I was amazed. So I bought it - and it's probably now the second most used synth I own (after the Hydrasynth). Just something about the way it works and sounds, it is very usable and sparks creativity.

@jandoedel1012 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff Probably as well because every single synth doesnt tick all the boxes. Like you I own the Summit as well and it sounds realy great but for piano, mellotron a.o. I need my Yamaha mox.

@kierenmoore3236 10 месяцев назад

I tend to agree with Jan … I don’t get the appeal of modern Modal, and the Cobalt in particular. Think I prefer the sound of an old MS2000, for VA in a keyboard, even … ! The chord inversion function is cool, tho’ … ☺️