Top 10 Best First Hardware Synths for Beginners 2022

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One of the most common questions I get is "I want to learn synthesizers, what should I look for for my first synthesizer?" Today I answer that question, going over what I think are the ten best synths for beginners new to synthesizers and synthesis.
These are videos that I mention where I cover each of these synths in much more detail:
Modal Cobalt8 Video: • Scott's Synth Stuff Ep...
Roland GAIA SH-01 Video: • Scott's Synth Stuff Ep...
Roland JD-Xi Video: • Scott's Synth Stuff Ep...
Yamaha Reface CS Video: • Scott's Synth Stuff Ep...
Roland System 8 Video: • Scott's Synth Stuff Ep...
Amazon Links:
Behringer Deepmind 12: amzn.to/3tLF9pg
Hydrasynth Explorer: amzn.to/36EIo98
Korg Minilogue XD: amzn.to/3wHCmiM
Modal Argon8: amzn.to/3iIcZoN
Modal Cobalt8: amzn.to/3LhKJWo
Novation MiniNova: amzn.to/3INL6q1
Roland GAIA SH01: amzn.to/37WXzuI
Roland JD-Xi: amzn.to/3IYSYoV
Roland System-8: amzn.to/3qDXxyf
Yamaha MX49: amzn.to/36SqdfU
Yamaha Reface CS: amzn.to/3wKSBf0
Reverb Links:
Behringer Deepmind 12: www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinm...
Hydrasynth Explorer: www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinm...
Korg Minilogue XD: www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinm...
Modal Argon8: www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinm...
Modal Cobalt8: www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinm...
Novation MiniNova: www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinm...
Roland GAIA SH01: www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinm...
Roland JD-Xi: www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinm...
Roland System-8: www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinm...
Yamaha MX49: www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinm...
Yamaha Reface CS: www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinm...
Thomann Links:
Behringer Deepmind 12: www.thomann.de/gb/behringer_d...
Hydrasynth Explorer: www.thomann.de/gb/asm_hydrasy...
Korg Minilogue XD: www.thomann.de/gb/korg_minilo...
Modal Argon8: www.thomann.de/gb/modal_argon...
Modal Cobalt8: www.thomann.de/gb/modal_cobal...
Novation MiniNova: www.thomann.de/gb/novation_mi...
Roland GAIA SH01: www.thomann.de/gb/roland_sh01...
Roland JD-Xi: www.thomann.de/gb/roland_jd_x...
Roland System-8: www.thomann.de/gb/roland_syst...
Yamaha MX49: www.thomann.de/gb/yamaha_mx49...
Yamaha Reface CS: www.thomann.de/gb/yamaha_refa...
Microphone Amazon: Rode PodMic amzn.to/3oxx4kT
Microphone Reverb: Rode PodMic reverb.grsm.io/sss-Rode-Podmic
Microphone Thomann: Rode PodMic www.thomann.de/gb/rode_podmic...
Microphone Boom Amazon: Rode PSA1 amzn.to/3LlMum3
Microphone Boom Reverb: Rode PSA1 reverb.grsm.io/sss-Rode-PSA1
Microphone Boom Thomann: Rode PSA1 www.thomann.de/gb/rode_psa1.h...
0:00 Introduction
2:28 Number 10
4:23 Number 9
5:59 Number 8
7:48 Number 7
9:48 Number 6
12:08 Number 5
13:59 Number 4
17:38 Number 3
20:38 Number 2
23:42 Number 1
#Synthesizer #Beginner #Top10

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5 июл 2024

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Комментарии : 291

@patrickfitzgerald2861 Год назад

Are you truly a beginner? Then get a used Roland JD-Xi for $300-$400, spend 6-12 months really learning how to use it, take reasonably good care of it, then sell it for $300-$400 if you want to move on or up to something else. But don't be surprised if you never do! It's a fantastic introduction to synths, and having an excellent drum machine included puts it in a class by itself. It's a really fun machine!

@kartofff Год назад

I'm just the customer for this video. I loved your set of criteria : that's EXACTLY what I was trying to navigate with. THANKS !

@IRIDEHARLEYS 2 года назад

Really good review Scott! I like how you broke down why you chose each synth and some strengths about each one without going into too much detail. I agree with your choice of the Roland Gaia. It's underrated and a lot of fun to play. I like that there is no menu to dive. It's capable of producing great sounds and can be played on batteries alone. Thanks for the video top 10 list!

@forgottencameras Год назад

I slammed that thumbs up button really hard when you said "I don't care if it is analog or digital..." Whether music stuff or cameras or whatever, if the tool works, use it!

@finlaygilzeazy9263 2 года назад

you just explained all the terminology in under 5 minutes that was incredible

@FormulaXFD 2 года назад

It makes me happy to see the System8 get some love.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

It's a great synth! Especially the native System-8 engine, sounds so good.

@FormulaXFD 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff pretty much as close to a modern JP-8000 as you will get, in my opinion.

@veganchris2923 2 года назад

The funny thing is… Roland is focusing on the vintage models… but the S8 engine was better than all the plug outs. Same in the Fantom… the models just sound like a limited Zencore engine. The Zencore engine sounds amazing.

@audioartisan 2 года назад

Nice beginners guide! I definitely recommend the Minilogue XD as a great beginners synth. I taught my 4 year old boy how to sound design using it. Because of the placement of all the knobs and synth sections on the XD, he was able to memorize and understand how to use it pretty quickly.

@MattPicsET 7 месяцев назад

7:53 The Yamaha MX has my favorite sounding pianos I’ve ever heard! It was the first “real” keyboard I owned and I’ll never get rid of it. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and it sounds fantastic! Highly recommend.

@robertlee1176 Год назад

Love the last two options - extremely great recommendations

@sidpackard8613 Год назад

Hey Scott, thanks for all the great content! Thanks to you and a couple other YTers I have my first synth on the way - a Gaia SH-01 from Sweetwater. Tomorrow can’t come soon enough!

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

That's great! The GAIA is a fantastic first synth: it is simple enough that you can get it going and learn on it, but complex enough that you can use it for years to come. I still use mine to record, just because I like the sound of it!

@712Jefferson 2 года назад

Greatly enjoying your content. Very well explained/detailed, but also quite relatable and approachable.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Thanks Will, that's very kind!

@robertescher3082 Год назад

I own both #5 and #4 on this list... They are both exactly as advertised... I am learning how to 'synth' so am mostly in the 'let's explore the presets and maybe alter them a bit' stage. I cannot tell you how impressed I have been with both the Mininova and Explorer. The Nova has some great sounds and, though not mentioned by Scott, there are eight 'mod' buttons that can be used to alter sounds in real time with a quick press. For the other one, as Scott has said, the Exploerer is a synth that I feel comfortable growing into without being intimidated right out of the box. It's like, "OK, here's a Ferrari... but we're gonna set it up to drive like a Minivan till you get used to it. THEN... when you're ready... you can UNLEASH!" :)

@garyturner5204 Год назад

This is a great video and covers a wide variety of great starter synthesizers, or a few synth s to seriously consider adding to your rig. I love that you tried to create a top price point of $1,000.00 but included the Roland System-8 at Now $1700 (I only paid $1499 for mine brand new when it came out). I love my System-8 for all of the reasons you mentioned in this video. I also love my Roland Gaia SH-01 for the great sound and ease of use - however, you neglected to mention that this great little synth with full sized keys is also multitimbral on 16 channels where 15 of those channels use general MIDI synth sounds. It is a great synth for folks to start with to learn synthesis on and even get into multi-tracking a]tunes when used with an external sequencer or computer. It was great to see you include the Novation as well. Though I do not have and have not used the Novation MiniNova, I do have a Novation Supernova II which I love as well for its great sound and deep multi-effects. And while I do not currently have the Korg Minilogue XD, I did have the original Minilogue which does sound great and was only $499 when I got it new. I eventually got rid of my Minilogue after I got my Roland System-8 as I was running out of physical room in my studio. I would still recommend a Korg Minilogue or Minilogue XD as they do have a great sound despite the the smaller key size. Great video! Thank you!

@stv-hammond 11 месяцев назад

love it. thanks for sharing

@Jimbo386000 Год назад

I wasn't expecting the Hydra Explorer to be here, but you make a great point about how it's easy and you can start on it but at the same time you can grow into it. I have a hydra deluxe and it is super simple to use but I can find virtually infinite things I can do with it. I'm always finding something new about it and I've had a few versions of the hydra for a few years now.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

Me too, I ordered the first Hydrasynth the instant it was announced, now I have the Deluxe. I can whip up a sound up on it quickly and easily in a few seconds, or spend hours diving into crazy modulation to come up with insane modulated craziness.

@tobi-y7862 2 года назад

I was looking for a mid range synth and you got exactly the synths i was looking trough...my thoughts went to argon 8 or hydrasynth explorer. Not quite sure what i want. I dont think there is a better explaination on youtube that you do here. GREAT JOB!

@Hardts Год назад

Piano player here, trying to get into synths. I'm going to need to watch this video a couple of times, great tips here. Had a hydrasynth deluxe, but couldn't really get completely into it, now looking for something else

@navarredr Год назад

Great video. Thank you! I watched your review of the Yamaha Reface CS before this one. I just purchased one and I think it is going to be ideal for composing/arranging/noodling while drinking coffee in the morning or for mid-day 'lounging' inspiration. I have other synths for actual 'work', but I wanted something portable and detached for creating/evolving ideas. I think that is this synth's strong point. Cheers!

@JockStud Год назад

Gr8 info thanks!!

@vinnien Год назад

Cool stuff, I got a MX49, Gaia, Cobalt8 and Mininova.

@karimsadouni4758 2 года назад

Thank you very much.

@michaelyolch79 Год назад

ABOUT THE ROLAND GAIA: When I was at Sweetwater University, Daniel Fisher (instructor synth genius) asked the entire class to yell out ANY sound or ANY song. He was able to flawlessly create ALL of them within 20-30 seconds. From crickets to RUSH to the WHO to creaking doors and on and on. AMAZING!

@Jimbo386000 Год назад

Daniel fisher is a G. We shouldn't call Andrew tate top G, we should call Daniel that. Hahaha But really, he really knows what he's doing.

@WildernessMusic_GentleSerene 5 месяцев назад

Gaia is one of a kind, never has a 3 layer synth with all surface controls been manufactured before or since. The Gaia2 is nothing at all like the Gaia, it is a conventional synth like all the others.

@klef6287 10 месяцев назад

YO THE M HIT THE CORNER IN #3 😂 great vid btw tysm for making this 🙏

@user-ty5bf4pg3g 10 месяцев назад

Thank you for the very helpful video! I was just wondering what you think of the Korg prologue as a first synth?

@enochroot9438 2 года назад

the Deepmind is a great synth, very under rated

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

It has a few limitations, but sonically it's an excellent synth!

@galifettetv1238 Год назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff disagree. Put out the fx section and you ll see how dm12 sounds thin. It s because the lp filter actually cut the lowest frequency. Even a modal sounds fater.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

@@galifettetv1238 For sure, without its extensive DSP FX, it definitely sounds thin. But they intend for the FX to be used as part of the synth.

@ten70four24 Год назад

Totally agree, great synth. The ipad app is a bonus as well! Definately one of the more 'bang for the buck' synths - even in 2022!

@Luthiart Год назад

How is it very underrated? Everybody raves about that synth. I haven't heard a single person say a bad thing about it.

@improbablesafari1491 Год назад

The Yamaha Reface stuff is really, really good. Weirdly enough, the CS was the first one I wanted, yet the only one I don’t have. I’m getting one. Anyway, I came here to say the DX is fantastic. Accessible FM. They knocked it out of the park. (I’d be remiss if I didn’t also mention the Reface CP. Off topic, not a synth, but it is my favourite keyboard instrument. Rhodes, Wurly, tiny, playable, sounds fantastic.). Reface. Excellent.

@VA1ENTINX Год назад

Keep making videos🧡

@FOXXYBEARS Год назад

I got myself a Yamaha reface cs after staring at budget synths for months, even I can use it, great sounds, I love it so far.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

The Reface CS is a fantastic little synth! I sold mine because I found I wasn't using it enough...and I REGRET it. I will likely end up buying another one.

@rhughes808 Год назад

Great list. I have owned 5 of the synths on your list. Still have the Deepmind and recently bought a Hydrasynth Explorer. Upgraded from a Minilogue XD to a Prologue. Each has played a role in developing my understanding and ability around sound design. You nailed the pros and cons of all the ones I have experienced and have fondness for the ones I have moved on from: XD, JDXI and MX49.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

I have a soft spot for the MX, I had a (blue) MX61. It was a great instrument. How do you like the keybed on the HS Explorer? I tried one at Sweetwater, and found the travel a bit small. I'm not a tremendous fan of mini keys, that might have tainted my opinion some however.

@rhughes808 Год назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff I know what you mean about the MX. It was my first real synth and got me hooked on all the possible sounds. I didn't really have a clue about sound design then (still learning). I know what you mean about the Explorer. I love the synth but the keys can be a bit tricky. Right now I work mainly on a Prologue 8, which is great for immediacy and direct learning feedback. The Explorer needs me to be more patient and keep learning to get to its full potential.

@JamesBermingham 9 месяцев назад

Great to see the Cobalt8 in this list. Agree with the Reverb downfall not being stereo.

@ekoopaandrzejgrembecki2259 8 месяцев назад

Hi! You get stereo reverb and a lot of other stuff with v2 update

@spotlight-kyd 2 года назад

Great recommendations! I especially like that you recommend poly synths. Too often beginner's think they need analog and then end up with a mono synth, because analog poly synths are generally still expensive (with the DM 12 the obvious exception, which I would probably have ranked higher). As great as mono synths can be, if you want to get a sense of accomplishment by actually creating your first track, it's so much easier with a polysynth. Having said that, as your second synth, I think you can't go wrong with one of the Behringer classic mono synth clones, esp. since you can get them for 200 bucks used.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

I agree with you 100%. A good friend of mine had a son who wanted a first synthesizer, I told her what I would recommend, the salesman talked her out of my recommendation and instead sold her a Moog Matriarch(!!!) The poor kid was lost, didn't understand the concept of paraphony, couldn't use the thing to make the music he wanted to make, and today it sits collecting dust in the corner.

@valdir7426 Год назад

the dreadbox nymphes can be found 350 euros used; and it's a 6 voices analog poly with a lot of character. don't know if this works as a first synth; but I'd say it does if you already do music with software. It has limitations (mono; one osc) but I prefer that to a synth with tons of features and a boring plastic sound. I would say a lot of people buy their first synth when they already have experience with a DAW and soft synths (which should be your first stop to learn abouth synths) and want something hands on so a mono synth as a first synth makes sense.

@christian_blass Год назад

Hi Scot, the Beringer Deepmind is a great synth but the menu diving is sometimes frustrating. Okay, much better than the Rolan JD-Xi menues. But the feature for me was the buildquality and the full size keys in the small Deemind 6 version with aftertouch. When you want a small analog Synth with full size keys, check out the Deppmind 6.

@MusicWizard85 Год назад

Good list. I started on a Roland System 1. I learned just by using it a lot and figuring out what did what. RU-vid is a great place for tutorials and tips for almost any music gear. My next synth was a Korg Wavestate. This I would consider more in the intermediate level of synths and not for beginners. I definitely needed to watch a good bit of YT tutorials as there's certainly a learning curve. Once you understand it though it's a fantastic, powerful beast of a synth. I would say it's easily one of the top 5 synths under $1,000 USD. I love it and use it a lot. My most recent and third synth is the powerful Hydrasynth Deluxe. I find this to be an odd hybrid of being both a great beginner synth (Explorer version if it's your first synth) AND a great intermediate to advanced synth. Once you learn how easy it is to route everything & use the mod matrix & macros the possibilities are endless. The synth can be as simple as just using the RANDOM button for everything or a complex deep dive of changing every parameter & routing. I love the HSD except for the lack of proper inputs to run external gear through it. I know you can use adapter cables and run into MOD 1 & 2 but a pair of combo jack inputs would've been nice. This is a fantastic synth and fits nice with all my other gear such as MPC Live 2, Roland MC-707 and Roland FA-07. I like to experiment with combining gear too. It's fun to run synths through gear such as Line 6 Helix, MPC Live 2, guitar pedals, modeling amps, other synths etc. It's a great time to be a musician with so many options for budget and skill level. The added bonus of being able to learn your gear online is great too.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

I have seen quite a few beginning synthesists who were at first enticed by the sounds of the Wavestate - and then completely turned off and alienated by its interface and programming. I wouldn't in any way recommend that as a beginner synth. I agree about the Hydrasynth - it can be quite easy to learn and use, yet it has the ability to program incredibly complex sounds once you dive into its modulation and routing capabilities.

@wsterlingy 2 года назад

Thanks for the video. I've been thinking about getting the full ASM Hydrasynth Deluxe. I want a full size synth keyboard, I love the fact that it has poly aftertouch. On top of that, it seems like I would never grow tired of it's sonic capabilities, except that I can't load my own waveforms. This would be my first synth in 20 years and I consider myself a novice. Would I be making a mistake?

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Definitely not. I don't think you could outgrow it, it can do just about everything, and like you said, the keybed is spectacular. I love mine!

@ababababeebababa Год назад

I've watched this video more times than I want to admit. Well done, very useful and informative. I'm currently looking into the MX49 and it just blows my mind how much value is in that keyboard for the money. Do you have an experience with the novation circuit tracks? I'm really curious what a circuit tracks could do with a MX49 as the sound module and controlled via MIDI from the tracks.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

For sure! The MX49 is a bargain for the breadth of sounds it contains, and it will work either as a sound module to be controlled by a Circuit Tracks, or as a controller to play sounds/samples in the Circuit Tracks...or both!

@blablablablabittybla561 8 месяцев назад

@Scott what is the best synth pair? Have you done a video like that? One for all bass sounds, one for all leads I guess.

@TheRealSasquatch 2 года назад

I'd have bumped up the Behringer Deepmind 12 - it's an all round great affordable "analogue" synth for beginners. The Roland JDXi is another I thought might have been placed higher - I love it as a "can do almost everything" synth - with a decent controller keyboard attached ...

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

The Deepmind I placed where it was because a lot of the functions, particularly FX, require some menu diving. And no question if the JD-Xi had a reasonable keybed, I would definitely have put it higher on the list!

@muppetpaster Год назад

And the DM12 menudiving is way less complicated as most others here...

@MuLtI1970_MIDI_channel Год назад

Hi Scott, i actually have 3 of the listed synths. The mininova, deepmind 12D, and the Cobalt 8M. What did i miss? the roland Boutique series. Those little Roland beasts make some real good sounds too. Otherwise, i loved the review and i hope we will get more interesting topics like this in the future. Greetings from Belgium. Cheers ( i know you can't add everything in a top 10, but i find the Boutique series worth to mention)

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

The Boutique series are neat little synths, and they definitely serve a niche. Particularly on the simpler subtractive versions - the JU-06 and so on. Problem is, they're all limited run - they make them for a short while, then they stop, and the prices of the used ones skyrocket!

@ronwhitefordiii3225 Год назад

Thanks a lot for the video！I'm a guitarist but I also want to get into synths. I've been researching for about a month now and I'm torn between the ASM Hydrasynth and the Modal Cobalt 8. I was leaning toward the Hydrasynth but now because of the V2 update I'm leaning toward the Cobalt for a first synth. The most attractive thing to me for the Hydra is the simple user interface; however, the Cobalt seems to be able to generate more bread and butter type sounds easier. I don't have any need for crazy FM synth sounds and lazer gun type sounds. I'll probably start off by tweeking patches and presets. Any advice？

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

The Cobalt does have a design interface that "protects" you from doing things that don't make sense, whereas on the Hydrasynth you can easily do things that end up with NO sound coming out. But both synths can make your "bread and butter" sounds very easily without much effort. The Hydrasynth with its 32 mod matrix slots can definitely create far more complex and evolving sounds.

@WOCHIFANNN 2 года назад

Helpful video！how about Korg volca？

@heltutrolig7645 Год назад

The Studiologic Sledge deserve a place on this list. It's a VA, with one function per button, aftertouch and full size keys. Excellent for learning subtractive synthesis.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

You're 100% right, I never even thought of that one. It's an excellent, inexpensive VA.

@EmEStudiosHannover Год назад

It is close to running out, but still available in a few shops and not actually ran out yet! Interested ones should concider the black or the normal, yellow, edition!🙂

@EmEStudiosHannover Год назад

Well explained and a good orientation for beginners! Here are my comments: - For me, all the mentioned synths, except the MX 49, sound more interisting (I tested and owned or own all) than the Gaia and Reface CS. -It would pay out to purchase one of the ancestors of the MX 49, a CS2x or an ANX (CS1x even cheaper): You might get that cheaper and more real time knobs. Even their bigger brother the CS6x has its price dropped a lot the last years - check it out! -There ist no need to pay 100 € more for a minilogue XD. I would recommend the normal minilogue. - Same ist true for the System 8: The System 1 can do a lot and is more in the pricerange for beginners (Less than half price, but mini keys). -A used Ultranova could be cheaper than a Mininova and has a better keybed and a better haptic. But after its facelift, the Mininova is very fine (I have one, but thought during the buying process about an Ultranova too). -I see no difference in the keybed of the Mininova and the JDxi. The keybed of the reface series ist better indeed. - I prefer the Cobalt before the Argon. 😎

@kridremarc5787 6 месяцев назад

Hi Scott, thanks for the great overview of powerful, easy to use Synths. Do you have any comments to Roland Gaia 2, Kork Wavestae MKII und Sequentiell Take 5 Do they fit into that category as well ? Thanks in advance Dirk

@ScottsSynthStuff 6 месяцев назад

The GAIA 2 is an excellent synth, I have several reviews on it already on my channel. It is a bit overpriced I think, but so is everything Roland makes. It or the Take 5 would make perfect first synths. The Wavestate, while an incredibly capable and amazing sounding synth, is also incredibly complex, and I suspect would just overwhelm someone new to synths.

@kridremarc5787 6 месяцев назад

T@@ScottsSynthStuff Thanks for the quick response. Please allow me to ask for an advice: I play Piano und Guitar, I working mainly at home. I use the Akai Force und looking for a powerful easy to use Synth as a companion for the Force Short list is now: ASM Hydrasynth Explorer, Roland Gaia 2 and Take 5 Any recommendation ?

@Mind-your-own-beeswax Год назад

The list could have so many in there. It’s a great time to be a synthesist with so much choice. I’ve been into synths since the late 70s and although I’m hopeless at it I still love them and have a few older ones. The first synth I ever tried was an ARP 2600 😂😂. Needless to say I couldn’t get anywhere with it.

@brs435 Год назад

You are pretty amazing I have a question I have a budget of $2,000 and I'm looking for a hardware safe where I can create drum samples like snares high hats and kick drums but I also wanted to be versatile enough where I can create amazing leads and amazing bass sounds for reggae music I pretty much want something that's going to be versatile I was looking at the system 8 but I don't see anything out there that tells me that it's good for drum libraries please help me out with this thank you sir you're the best

@MosEisleySpacePort1138 2 года назад

Totally agree with you about the looper on the Reface CS. I would’ve preferred an arpeggiator instead. Or, at least, a different design for the looper; a slider control is too unwieldy for looping phrases properly.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

The fact that it is recording AUDIO makes it even more worthless, and yes, trying to loop a phrase with that slider is near impossible. An arpeggiator, or better yet, a MIDI looper, perhaps with quantization, would have been far better.

@pierreparadis9626 2 года назад

Hey! Thanks for all the vids you do! You are so dedicated and passionnate about synths! My first synth was a DM-12 desktop that I used with a Roland RD2000 in the fifth layer slot, still love it. 2nd synth was the ASM Hydrasynth 49 keys and rapidly I added the Novation Summit. My last acquisition is Hydrasynth Deluxe. Summit sounds so great, Hydrasynth polyphony is wonderful and the dual engine makes it exceptionnal. I still have a lot to learn with every piece of gear. Also a lot to learn with DAW functionality too. Cobalt 8X seems nice... I do think I have enough to work on... But temptation is great! ;-) What do you think?

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

As you know, I also have the Summit and Hydrasynth Deluxe. I wouldn't have bought the Cobalt8x if it didn't bring something new and unique to the sonic stage, which it definitely does. I say, go for it!

@tylerborn7345 Год назад

Wow you just named a lot of the gear that I have and have been interested in, curious to pick your brain a little bit! I also have an RD-2000 that I hold onto for practicing real piano and because the keybed is just the most wonderful experience ever. However, the gigging band I’m in has less and less need for piano and organ sounds so I decided to switch to synthesizers full-time. Was about to buy a DM12 but found a good deal on the Hydrasynth 49-key and I don’t regret that at all. I love my hydrasynth deeply and am considering upgrading to the deluxe for the longer keybed and multitimbrality so that I can more seamlessly switch between two patches during live play. My one complaint about the HS though is the huuuge travel of the keybed. Anytime I do fire up my RD-2000 I find I can just fly on that thing in a way that the HS doesn’t allow me to (maybe I’m just not used to it yet and I know that synth keybeds are a different beast). So anyway I found a good deal on a Summit and am considering basically selling the Roland to buy that and either keeping the HS or possibly downsizing to the explorer (could never part with the HS and love the idea of portability and battery power if the Summit becomes my main board). I briefly got to demo the Summit and enjoyed the shorter travel, could play faster than on the HS for sure, but wasn’t as blown away by the sound engine or keybed as I was hoping. I think both of these could be due to feeling rushed and not being quite used to them yet. So anyway, I’m rambling, my question is: with three seemingly very different keybeds, do you relate to my opinions of them and what would you recommend between the Summit and HS Deluxe (I’ve heard they slightly altered the keybed on the Deluxe but don’t have an opportunity to demo one unfortunately), both in terms of keybed and sound engine (this will be my main/possibly only synth and I do enjoy deep sound design, but play in a post-punk-experimental-noise band). I hope you see this and can weigh in, I’ve been dying to hear the perspective of someone with the experience that it seems you have. Thank you so much!

@pierreparadis9626 Год назад

@@tylerborn7345 Hi! Your stage piano is solid, durable RD2000 with an excellent keybed and 8 ZONES to be a Master Keyboard and control whatever you want with 2 midi out. I will keep it for sure and go for a desktop PEAK and/or a desktop DM-12. Keep your HS 49 for the polyafter touch (but add an additionnal control over it with the RD2000. You will have multitimbrality with the addition of other synths . Have the BPM clock sent by the RD2000. Many possibilities with the RD2000 to program scenes and have control over midi of ALL YOUR SYNTHS and also virtual instruments. You can start all of them at once all in sync. Or choose which one at the touch of a button! Even start an arpeggio or a patch, Latch On and let it go, then start playing with the other synths without altering the arpeggio. It's what I do. You can tweak your sound on your desktop while playing another synth on the RD2000... So many possibilities. Money seems to be an issue, then keep in mind that RD2000 is a great value. There will be plenty of newer synths in the future to choose from.

@alseveron6558 Год назад

Love your videos and this on is awesome, and just what I needed! I'm still undecided though! About $400 is my limit, for a first synth. I don't mind used. I want a 37-mini-key model (so it fits on my desk) and with a decent looper and sequencer. I'm more interested in creating unique sound effects as well as having access to good quality instrument voices for regular playing. Good built-in effects (including long delays) are important to me. I'm thinking about Minifreak, Mininova, JD-Xi, Minilogue XD or Cobalt 8...

@Elazarko 2 года назад

Please, In your opinion, between the hydrasynth Explorer and the Modal Cobalt 5s which is a better option first synth option in your opinion? I'm a long time piano player and I don't want to buy the 'wrong one' between the two. Also, you mentioned that you can get piano sounds on the Hydrasynth Explorer? on it's own? I didn't know that. Thank you!

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

It really depends on what you're looking for, and your level of comfort in design. Either would work well as just a preset machine, both have good keybeds, although the Explorer keybed is polyphonic aftertouch, and is the more exceptional of the two. And yes, the Hydrasynth engine (which is a full Hydrasynth, unlike the scaled-down engine in the Cobalt 5s) can create a passable piano sound. As a piano player, you may want to consider if you want to limit yourself to the 5 notes of polyphony on the Cobalt.

@aaronburks2056 9 месяцев назад

Hello Scott, my name is Ace Bizerk and I own the A-Pro 300, JD-Xi, and MC-707. I have watched your videos and thank you for making them. I felt like since I have these same devices that it would be good to reach out and say hello. There are some areas that I could use some advice on like mapping the A-Pro for the MC-707. Embarrassing as it is I could also use some help setting up the initial parameters for using RPN/NRPN messeges. Somehow I still do not have a good understanding of how to set the null controllers and utilizing these types of MIDI messeges. I got some of the maps for the JD-XI off of the Roland Clan Forum that have Sysex messages. RPN'S are not mapped but described which ones work with the JD-Xi. However, since I don't know how to set up RPN's I have not been able to use them. This I am really wanting to figure out so I can make maps for the MC-707 which seems to have much smaller midi implementation Rx parameters. Thank you so much for your time and all the help you have already provided. Aaron (Ace Bizerk, ZoomFutureProductions, and Glass Pane Studio)

@MichaelJones-ob3bv 5 месяцев назад

I really like synth sounds of music, TV, movies from 70s/80s, what would be a beginner synth for these sounds? Been looking at Beringer retro synths, Monopoly, Poly D and Odyssey

@veganchris2923 2 года назад

I’ve had the minilogue, System 8 and Deepmind. Those would have been first on my mind for a beginner too. Also… a Prologue would be in the running.

@kierenmoore3236 Год назад

Yes, minilogue for sure! 😎👍🏼

@rolandechosmith5526 Год назад

Which do you prefer; the deepmind or the minilogue xd?

@veganchris2923 Год назад

@@rolandechosmith5526 I had the original minilogue, not the xd. I didn’t like it. I felt it sounded thin. The dm12 was much beefier. You can arrange the voices into two pairs of 6 and detune them and it sounds fat af.

@veganchris2923 2 года назад

Ok, first off, the System 8 is great, I loved it and it’s super fun to tweak and design sounds on. But if we are getting up to $1700… I think the Fantom 06 should be on the list. Not only does it have graphical displays of envelopes and amazing VA, but once a beginner wants to actually start making tracks, everything they need is right there.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

The Fantom-06 wasn't released yet when I made this video. I have one now, but I don't know that I would say it's a great beginner synth. It's decidedly complex, enough that it could easily discourage someone new to synths.

@veganchris2923 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff I suppose that’s true. I probably just feel it’s intuitive and easy because I had a kronos prior 🤣

@Jobotubular 2 года назад

Can't argue with the Reface CS either; I liked it so much I bought the DX and CP as well. CS makes a great add-on when you don't want/need a full-size keyboard -- or more to the point, when you want to have a synth, but don't want all the setup and space requirements.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

I really like the DX, but with a MODX that has FM capabilities that blow away the Reface DX, I couldn't justify it.

@Jobotubular 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff - oh sure, you don't necessarily need one. But it's very handy to have as a small add-on

@spotlight-kyd 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff I have both but while I have maybe made 5 FM Sounds on the MODX, I have done more than 50 on the DX, because it is so easy and it sounds so good.

@holegrease Год назад

Sweetwater has the Gaia-SH01 for 499 currently, is it a no-brainer buy at that price? I just bought a behringer crave, have been having tons of fun but didn't really understand monophonic vs polyphonic when i bought it, hence why I'm here on this video. Is the sh01 a lot more worth it for 499 versus like a mininova for 440? I'm very new to synths and been having a fun time messing around with synthesis. Thanks for all the great information on this video, it taught me a lot I didn't know.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

The Mininova is really quite a powerful synth for its size, and can do quite a bit - but you do have to suffer through the mini keys on it, and the sound programming is kind of arcane, although it DOES have a mod matrix. The GAIA has full-sized keys, and is pretty much knob per function, where you can tweak the sound just by moving sliders in the different sections. Whereas other synths have multiple oscillators (the Mininova has 3), the GAIA has three complete copies of the synth engine, so you can set up three individual oscillators each with its own independent filter, envelopers, etc...which is pretty uncommon in ANY synth, and gives you quite a bit of flexibility.

@xBlitzerx Год назад

Hey I recently found the video for the Chompi and am really interested in synths. It could be awhile until that is released and it's also going to be around $500 USD. I'm wondering if there is somethign else like that on the market right now? Very basic instrument that can record sounds via mic or line in (guitar, bass etc) then store and loop them together and some basic effects, doesn't have to be anything complicated. I was looking at the organelle but that is more then I need/want to spend. Thanks!!

@xBlitzerx Год назад

Update: I've been researching all day and hope to clarify what I'm looking for and maybe you can help. Looking for something with a mic that I can use to sample. Also would be cool if it had a line in for guitar/bass then they synth could then modify (is this how it works). then at sequencer/looper that I would put out to an audio interface to stream (or mixer/PA) So far the JD-Xi and MiniNova seem like what I'd want. But they both seem to be old models. Is that an issue? Thanks!

@ttt-toms_tipps_tricks 4 месяца назад

Very nice logical list! I had some of the cheaper keyboards: Yamaha MX49, Roland JDXI and a few that would also fit in the list (Roland Go Keys, Korg Triton Tactile, Yamaha SY22 and CS1X, Korg microKorg, M-Audio Venom, E-Mu Shortboard and another few others) I sold them all again! I'm just sorry about the Yamaha MX49, it's really fantastic! But unfortunately it was too big for me and unfortunately it can't be operated with batteries, which is very important to me! The two Korgs were terrible! Poor workmanship and boring sounds! Now I'm buying a Novation Mininova and hope it's the right one! I also made videos about most of them, unfortunately only in German 😉 Thank you for your many great videos! They give good and honest tips and information 👍❤️

@GreenBlueWalkthrough Год назад

Great video! Which I'm more of chasing a nostalgic sound so for me the Roland Botique and Yamaha Reface series can't really be beat. As while they have a tweaked sound from the orginals it fits better with what I am creating... But of your list that Hydrosnyth sounds really good as an midi interface and snyth.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

100%, the Hydrasynth will do everything the Boutique and Reface series synths can do, and much, much more.

@GreenBlueWalkthrough Год назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff Good point and I could use the hydrasmth with the roland cloud plug ins instead of a botique... That does seem like a good way to get me started thanks!

@marcello4258 8 месяцев назад

so are we getting the argon or the cobalt? :P

@valdir7426 Год назад

nymphes and the soon to be release PRO-800 are gonna be really interesting as a super affordable desktop analog poly. (also the minifreak probably deserves a place here; but maybe it wasn't released yet at the time of making the video?)

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

Correct, this video predates the Minifreak. Once NAMM is over, I'll update this video, as I'm sure if I were to do it now it would be out of date after NAMM. :)

@theokidokis Год назад

What about Moog Grandmother? Any good?

@liviou2004 Год назад

Hey Scott, here is a new suggestion : the ASM Hydrasynth. Do you plan to make a video on it ?

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

100%, it's definitely coming up. I LOVE my Hydrasynth!

@djsilent01 Год назад

High Scott... I'm an RnB producer and I won't be doing much gigging. Just recording and mixing. Ive been interested in the Deepmind12d desktop. Because it looks nice to work. But I'm new to the hardware synth world and im not really looking to make many sounds but to manipulate presets or sounds that are there more then to create from scratch. Would the Deepmind be the better synth for me? Is a rompler better for me? I'm truly not sure...

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

The Deemind is truly a powerful synth, particularly for its price. I've waffled over buying it a number of times. It is a true analog synth, with a plethora of powerful digital effects. Without the effects, its analog oscillators and filters are good - not great. But with the effects added on, it can really produce some spectacular sounds, and do just about anything you might need it to do.

@djsilent01 Год назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff would you recommend it over the Novation Peak? Or anything you would recommend over the Deepmind12 with great sounds?

@michelvondenhoff9673 Год назад

My picks would be (K)ARP Odyssey or KingKorg. One analog paraphonic, the other multitimbral and polyfonic VA. Under €500 used.

@rjakiel73 2 года назад

With the MX49 and JD-XI there are programs available on the PC that give you full access to the hardware and turns them both into true synthesizers.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

The programs don't give the synths any new capabilities that they didn't already come with - it just makes it easier to manipulate the parameters within them.

@rjakiel73 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff not true. The MX software allows additional voices to be layered. The JDXI gives full access to ADSR individually instead of a combo knob.

@drsamurai009 Год назад

For its price point, I think the Reface CS is a killer bargain. It does have a large sound palette, but it has a few programming quirks. Only one envelope with a filter/amp slider is a bit unorthodox, and the osc section is very versitile but also a little uncommon. In order to get basic oscillator concepts out of it, you use the texture and mod slider. So if you want a sub oscillator, it's dependent on using the correct wave form type, and the texture and mod sliders to bring the sub volume in. If you use a different oscillator type, you won't have a sub oscillator option at all. Flexible, yes, but using it to learn sound design, it does not have a feature set that allows transfer of the knowledge to another synth as easily as the minilogue. Also a drawback is there are no onboard memories, so a beginner either has to do without them, or use an outboard app to save and recall sounds. Don't get me wrong I love mine and use it a lot. I'd for sure recommend it for it's price, but not as much for learning synth programming/sound design.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

I did a full review on the CS here: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-sQI4bn0jBJs.html I agree about most of your points. It can save and retrieve patches to the Yamaha SoundMondo web site, so you can use that for patch storage and retrieval - that's what I ended up doing.

@cephlopodic Год назад

always enjoy your cobyate work scott but you just introduced me to 9? more! Synths?🛩✈️🛸🛸

@cephlopodic Год назад

🙃much love bro. if i may pick yr brain a bit mo', are those behinger electronic drmkits fair enough all round. 🫧thanks SCOTT'AYE ,im gettin shit trying 2buy simmons titan50 in AUS🫣. the kits @$400 in THE YOU ESS OV AYE are over $800 here. your $1000 there $1400 here. our governments taxes on everything are CRIMINAL.🫡

@johncooper4919 Год назад

Hey, I’m getting my chops up so that I can sit in with my brothers cover band, lots of Dead, Allmans, Phish and long jams. I’m torn between purchasing the Behringer Poly D or the Roland Gaia that is suggested in this video, please help!

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

For live work I'd definitely pick the GAIA, for two main reasons: - You have presets, which you can quickly select to get the desired sound for each song - You have true polyphony, so you can play chords The Poly D sounds great, but you have to dial in each sound manually, and it is paraphonic - so you can play chords, but it does so by re-tuning individual oscillators, so the sound is not going to be the "thick" sound you expect from the synth when you have oscillators playing together in mono mode, and you're limited to four notes sounding at once. The GAIA can easily do organs and classic 70's synth sounds.

@johncooper4919 Год назад

Thanks so much Scott, now I just have to practice, practice, practice. I’m enjoying your videos, glad I found your channel 🤙

@eddiespectral Год назад

For me, the number 1 is the DM12

@TheRockRoomPhilZuckerman Год назад

I have a school of rock and currently have a Yamaha MX88. I am considering going to a 73 key device that is super user friendly since I mostly work with kids. I don't need to connect to a computer, program patches, etc.. I would even consider a vintage keyboard if it is simple to use. Any suggestions? Thank you!

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

Love School of Rock! My daughter was in our local one for years, and she was on the cover of their brochure for many years. :) Honestly, I would think that the MX series of Yamahas is really ideal for SoR. They're light, easy to operate, reasonably rugged, can do great pianos, EPs, organs, and pads if need be. The next size down of MX is the 61 however, so not quite the 73 you're looking for.

@TheRockRoomPhilZuckerman Год назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff Thank you for the feedback!!

@TheRockRoomPhilZuckerman Год назад

My keyboard players have difficulty hearing themselves over the (2 or 3) guitar players. I have a powered hot spot right beside the keyboard but it just is not enough. In ears are not practical for my situation so I am considering a keyboard amp? Thoughts? Thank you!!

@HOLLASOUNDS Год назад

The MiniNova has the same sound engine as the Ultranova.

@brianhill2171 Год назад

Opinion on the Arturia Minifreak?

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

I have not yet had my hands on one. I think it's a great price point, and a fun little synth...but for the same price, I think I would go for a Hydrasynth Explorer, which gives you far more capability and a better user interface.

@galifettetv1238 Год назад

For a 61 key configuration would you choose cobalt 8x or hydrasynth deluxe?

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

Well there is no 61 key Hydrasynth, the Deluxe is 71, but having both, I'd have to go with the Hydrasynth. It's an insanely capable and expressive synth.

@galifettetv1238 Год назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff thanks for the answer. I m a little bit afraid by the asm complexity, but the keyboard with aftertouch and the quality of the reverb are appealing

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

@@galifettetv1238 The Hydrasynth can be complex if you dive deep into it - but it is also very easy to use.

@lumpichu 9 месяцев назад

Because of mostly time and space constraints, I'm not going to buy anything just yet, but I'd love to, so at least I'm watching some videos and stick with my digital piano :) But I'd take the number one only for free :) I don't want anything that even looks as a toy or is very retro and I also much dislike the feeling I'm very limited. I think I'd be deciding between the DeepMind 12, HydraSynth or the Cobalt8.

@desmondmooreart Год назад

What is a wiser investment for desktop synth sound design Hydra or Peak?

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

Hydrasynth. All the way.

@desmondmooreart Год назад

Thank you!

@CaptSpacelord Год назад

Nice list but missed the Behringer PolyD, and Odyssey ;-)

@shadowofthestarsdespair 7 месяцев назад

cant pick between the reface cs or dx

@drexlr613 8 месяцев назад

what’s good for hiphop?

@twintriode 7 месяцев назад

Well damn I'm a beginner and I bought a Fantom 6. I've got some learning to do.

@Petrpans7 2 месяца назад

Hi Scott this 2024 what you think about beginners synth?

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 месяца назад

Yeah, I guess it's time to update this list. I'll put it on my "videos to make" list

@Petrpans7 2 месяца назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff Thank you bro !!

@mc2engineeringprof Год назад

Good set. I'd have gone with the System - 1 instead of the 8. Just less costly and basically the same synth. I also might have mentioned the Reface DX - as good with FM synthesis as the CS is with VA, great sounding and easiest FM interface I've ever seen. Another nice one is the Behringer Monopoly (as well as the Poly D which is very similar). Easy to use and historic big sound.

$@fractalimmersion$

@fractalimmersion 10 месяцев назад

If the refAce CS had onboard preset storage, I would have kept mine. Amazing sound but so frustrating to not have a convenient way of saving said sounds

@ScottsSynthStuff 10 месяцев назад

I agree, and it certainly has the ability - because you can plug it into your computer or tablet and use SoundMondo to store and retrieve presets.

@Arthur-hg7ny Год назад

I like the fact today’s digital analogue synths don’t have the hiss found on the Juno 60 chorus

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

Some of the Roland emulations (System-8, Zen-Core on Fantom, JP-X, etc) have that as an option, so if you want the hiss in the chorus, you can have it.

@musicexplorations808 2 года назад

Just my 50 ct... Go for a second hand system 8, around 1000 1100. Beginner synths, do they exist? The system 8 you have three synths, a good layout with the main features which al return in almost every synth if its for learning, posibility of layering sounds, quite allround. While I have cheaper synths, and I am very happy with them to, just save a little more money and keep looking for good deals. I like it actually you started with the system 8, a lot of these videos stat with cheaper options, but they most times end up in a collection of synths, and cheaper smaller doesn´t mean less useful, but my tkae is that you want your first synth a thing that can grow with you. And to many videos always start for beginners with synths around 400 euros. Take for instance the JDXI, a great beatbox synth, but then, lots of menu diving compared to the system 8. And one of my last synth bought was the novation summit, new but strong reduced price. Okay, save a little more, but these synths are surely synths that last a while in terms of not outgroing them. And yes, I have great monophonic synths, but first synth, start with a polyphonic one....my main advice, just save, don´t be afraid starting with a more expensive synth you don´t outgrow. thumbs up for the video..

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

I should have talked about buying used, that's a good point. The System-8 can get complex if you dive into it like I mention, but it's a really great synth for learning synthesis on I think, for all the reasons you state. And it will definitely grow with you!

@musicexplorations808 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff if I look at my own road it's my idea that an hardware synth contributes not really soundwise. Honestly I own beautiful vst synths and a perfect controller for vst synths. But having a hardware synth, and I own severa,l it changed the way I think of my compositions. Honestly I own some highly rated analog synths, but in fact, they're clumsy compared to vst. And because of this, the recording, mixing proces changes and so did my use of vst synths. The "problem", I think many start out with vst synths, but many times you'll get stuck in merely programming a song, from midi to sound. When using HW synths that is cut away, while more clumsy it opens creativity, and that same creativity returns when working with vst synths...it's a little my take on HW synths, and beside that.. love it, addicting. So that's why I think that if you want to buy your first synth save a little more, go for a synth that you don't outgrow fast. And honestly, it normally doesn't stay with one synth. These machines are such a creativity boosts! Have a nice weekend!

@pcostanza 2 года назад

It's a pity Roland doesn't sell the System-1 anymore. That would have been a good cheaper alternative to the System-8.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

It was quite a bit more limited - with less BMC chips in it, it was not capable of running a lot of the plugout synths that the System-8 can run.

@Jobotubular 2 года назад

In considering the system-8, I think it's fair to regard it as *four* synths in one, and therefore about $400 per synth. That's how I thought of it, anyway

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

For sure, and it's THE cheapest way to get the most accurate Jupiter-8 emulation available. I know people who have bought two of them, loading different plugouts into the second one.

@SonicVibe 2 года назад

I need a desktop synth list never a fan of built In keyboards 🎹 on my synths

@ASAPJermz 2 года назад

Appreciate all of the work you did for this video, my only gripe is that these synths aren't necessarily cheap. Cheap for the average is probably $300-500 for one piece of equipment which you only had 1 within this price range. The Arturia MicroFreak is probably up the alley of what most people who watched this video came for 💯

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

It really depends. You'd be surprised at the number of people who are coming into this and spending $1000 on their first synth....and more!

@ASAPJermz 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff I wouldn't doubt they do exist but, budget will never be $1,000 off rip lol

@user-JM1967 Год назад

where's Casio Wxp1? and Behringer MS-1?

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

I was including only products currently available. Both of those are discontinued.

@DanaSevern Год назад

My first synth was bought at radio shack. The MG-1. Im old

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

I remember going into the store as a kid and playing it!

@paulderosa8981 Год назад

I got the Roland Gaia as my first synth. It was around $500 and I could not deal with a synth that did not have a full size keys.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

Me too. I really dislike mini keys (at least my fingers do).

@WibblyWobblyBob Год назад

I've coaxed some amazing sounds out of the Gaia. It's unbelievably versatile.

@kierenmoore3236 Год назад

Minilogue should be at or near the top. Microkorg S should be alongside the CS (do you want simple/no internal settings, or more depth/complexity and internal settings). … come to think of it, what do you have against Korg … ?!?!! 😜

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

Nothing at all, I love Korg! I have three Korgs now, one more on its way, and the first synth I ever bought (in 1987!) was a PolySix.

@kierenmoore3236 Год назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff I was joking (😜) … they just seemed like very glaring omissions!! And Rational Youth even had a MicroKorg on stage, right next to their MiniNova! 😊 I’d say the MicroKorg has better classic/VA sounds, and the MiniNova is brighter/more EDM & electronica. MiniNova has a clearer vocoder, but I actually prefer the dirtier vibe of the MicroKorg’s (I have an MS2000B that I similarly like for ‘vocoding’).

@AntonMochalin Месяц назад

Recommending System 8 and refusing to consider FM synths is strange. Opsix can easily do your "oscillators through a filter" subtractive stuff. Actually if one owns Ableton Standard or higher one of the best learning synths that they already have is Ableton's Operator.

@paulb8340 Год назад

Hi ..People should listen hard on your advice here ..I just bought Korg modwave ..its amazing BUT BUT BUT ..its totally baffling aprt from the performance presets which are simple to use but the wave tables stump me despite loads videos on the subject ?? a wave table that is named cybals or drums or trombone ???yet non of these WT sound like these....im in over my head ...synths can be VERY complicated ...Howeevr i have to persevere now iv made my bed ....lol

@delscoville Год назад

I had a MX49 on my wishlist, But 2022 was a good year for me, and got a MODX6+ instead. I already have a Classic Motif 6, but it's DAW integration is just too outdated.

@ScottsSynthStuff Год назад

Good choice, while the MX is a great keyboard, the MODX is infinitely more capable. I only wish they made it in blue! :)

@delscoville Год назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff I was wishing they made it in white.

@JuanUys 3 месяца назад

If you're putting something as expensive as a Roland System 8 in there, and you debated whether to put a Hydrasynth Explorer in there, why not forego the Explorer, and just put a Hydrasynth in your list? Yes, its also at the upper range of the beginner price bracket, but more knob-per-function, ribbon, etc. and something you can really grow into. Not a pro / I know nothing / just my 2c 😅

@ScottsSynthStuff 3 месяца назад

Good point.

@mack_solo Год назад

It's your channel so you may do as you please of course, but personally I didn't relate to the conditions set forth, especially when you started with term "INEXPENSIVE" and then dropped 'System 8' as an opener (that's a price of JD-Xi, GAIA and MiniNova in one, or 3 Roland Boutiques). Also didn't understand what you have against FM synthesis - the other half of the 80's hits were made with it. As a beginner I want SOUNDS and couldn't care less about the sound generation method. I was a bit surprised JD-Xi was not higher in your recommendation after watching your vid on it, but then again like I said this list was a bit all too arbitrary for me, it was more of a "Here are some syths for you to consider" than anything else.

@klstay 2 года назад

If spending System 8 money (unwise on a 1st/learner synth?) a used Summit or rev2 is a MUCH better choice IMHO or the deluxe Hydrasynth.

@ScottsSynthStuff 2 года назад

Used System-8's are far cheaper than used Summits (about $500 cheaper). For a beginner, the System-8 is far more approachable than the Summit I think - no mod matrix, less complex engine. I suppose it comes down to the sound you want.

@klstay 2 года назад

@@ScottsSynthStuff you have a good point. A "raw" mono/para (no effects, mod matrix, sequencer etc.) might be the best for learning principles, but could also be hard for a beginner to get much out of sound wise?

@lo-firobotboy7112 Год назад

No sound examples?

@johnalver 10 месяцев назад

In my experience, Yamaha MX are extremely playable. . . . Being able to play along with literally any song off the radio makes me think of the '70s synthesizers that had to be programed for only a specific part within a song.