First Hardware Synth?

[AJ Reynolds]

I don't think you can go wrong with the Korg. I think it's on most of our shopping lists.

Do you want a synth with a keyboard? you can save money by going for stuff with no keys.

[kraku]

Since you already have the Komplete package, I suggest you buy a real analog to complement all that digital stuff. Probably best possible way to start expanding your setup would definitely be the Korg MS-20 Mini. Great price. It's an MS-20 so it should sound great (and it does if the youtube videos don't lie).

An alternative could be Arturia MiniBrute, but I would personally buy the MS-20 Mini first.

[ForWerd]

I'm not sure what your experience is, but I just want to make sure you know that the synths you've mentioned so far are monophonic. Wouldn't it be a surprise if you got one of those then realized you couldn't play chords with it.

[Rimwolf]

Originally Posted by ForWerd

I'm not sure what your experience is, but I just want to make sure you know that the synths you've mentioned so far are monophonic. Wouldn't it be a surprise if you got one of those then realized you couldn't play chords with it.

Another issue that may or may not be important to you is that the MS20 mini doesn't have any patch memory: how the knobs are set and how it's patched up entirely determines the sound, and if you ever want the same sound back you have to set it up the same way again.

Another consideration is that the only MIDI it responds to is note-on/off.

[cresshead]

the ms20 has 1 built in patch memory...whatever you leave it it..it remembers it...ie where the knobs are!

and you do have patch sheets with the unit to write down the settings..or use a phone camera.

you can't "store/retrieve" patches with a button push that's for sure!

if you want/need presets recalled at the push of a button you need a different type of synth.

[boogie.]

Thanks for the help so far guys, much appreciated! I am going to research the advantages/disadvantages of polyphonic versus monophonic synths, but it seems like the ms20 mini is the general idea right now. Could someone explain why the moogs are so much more expensive? Specifically I was considering the little phatty.

[80SR]

Originally Posted by boogie.

Thanks for the help so far guys, much appreciated! I am going to research the advantages/disadvantages of polyphonic versus monophonic synths, but it seems like the ms20 mini is the general idea right now. Could someone explain why the moogs are so much more expensive? Specifically I was considering the little phatty.

Consider them the Apple of synths. They do one thing very well, and everybody likes them for that. Kind of a brand name thing.

I will be getting a MS20 mini as well. I do alot of expirimental sounds and the ms20 for the price is right up my alley. Also considering getting a mono evolver.

However, I am starting a synth/indie/electronic group with my friends so polyphony is something I have to consider.

[Nev]

That Moog filter is one sexy thing, buy it can be found elsewhere.

If I was in your shoes, I would skip the ms20 mini (for now) and pick up a used Slim Phatty OR a used Studio Electronics SE-1. The Slim Phatty (or Lil Phatty variant) is indeed a Moog, but does not sound the same as a Voyager or any of their past classic synths. It has a more grittier modern sound which can get a bit muddy in a mix. Still does some nice leads and the tone can be used to create some "in your face" kicks.

For the most bang for your buck, the MS20-mini is hard to beat, BUT all I have is HD utube videos and paid reviewers to base my decision on. In other words I would have to get my hands on one to be assured it actually does sound like the original.

Does the SE-1 have the Oberheim filter and the Moog filter as well? If so then WOW! I do not own a SE-1 but have used one on occasion, currently I am looking to buy a SE-1X. The envelopes on the SE-1 are not as fast as I am used to.

[ROLAND RAZZ]

I like the new Moog Sub-Phatty as well. If you want a polyphonic synth, King Korg looks interesting and then there is always the tried and true Nord Lead 2X. All these hardware synths will need a good pre/interface to get into your DAW for a more organic feel. If you want more midi interface, the M-Audio venom was blown out dirt cheap.