So, I have an RD2000 and FA07 for keyboards. There both great at what they do - but for synth stuff..... The FA is capable enough, but modulation is limited (two LFOs max, no mod envelope, and can only assign to filter, vca or pitch), lacks more than basic real time control, and only allows one FX per patch.
So the answer is a dedicated desktop synth module (no space for anything else with keys - so not another board. Shame as there are a few not available in module format Id consider).
So - Im after lush evolving pads (not basic 80s pads - the FA does that really well), both evolving automatically (so needs a decent Mod matrix and controllers) and with manual control (lots of knobs/sliders). I also want it to do more stabby, arpegiated stuff - preferably with programmable arp patterns. Needs to be Polly though (for the pads) which rules out a lot.
Everything Ive looked at is decent, but limited in some way, so its whats best to fit the bill.
1. Deep Mind. Looks great for the cash. Shame Osc 1 is simple square wave, and no mixer (all or nothing on Osc 1). If it had 2 complete Oscillators and a mixer it would probably be the one (especially at the price).
2. Rev 2 (8 voice). Cant really afford/justify the 16. Great build, good mod matrix and 2 proper oscillators. Not sure its particularly good at the stabbing stuff, and no idea if the arp is programmable (think it has a step sequencer though which is just as good if not better).
3. Peak. Really comprehensive if a little more modern sounding - BUT only 2 Mod sources. Thats a deal breaker if Im reading it right.
4. Virus Ti2. Most expensive, and least real time control from what I can see. Worth considering a used one though I guess.
5. Possibly an old, used Nord Rack (2 or 3) if I can find one - but honestly no idea how this stacks up to the others.
So - anyone shed light on which might best suit my application - or suggest something Ive overlooked.
Comments
Blofeld and P12 are other options at different price points which fit the bill. I have a rev2 and a Blofeld, and what the Blofeld can do for the money is very extensive.
I think all the options are good, so prob best to try a few out and see what feels best to use to you.
On the Peak...maybe I have it wrong. Its not the lack of Modulation sources it lacks, but how many you can apply per tone. I thought there were just 2 Mod slots per voice.
The DM12 is looking quite nice though actually, after watching a few "patch building" vids on Youtube.
Blofeld is very much poly and in fact multi-timbral too. Often referred to as a evolving pad machine. The sledge uses a cut down version of the same engine and I think you liked that sound? Blofeld has a v sophisticated mod matrix with modifiers, wavetables available on 2 of the 3 oscillators, 2 separate filters per patch (with more filter types than the sledge). The matrix control system does let you easily grab and adjust most main parameters too. Plus it can sit on the end of my electro!
As I say, I have a 16 voice rev2 as well, but for the £220 I paid for my used blofeld it is amazing.
1: RD2000 - weighted action, all Pianos, organs, EPs, Clavs - and basic layering Pads/strings.
2: FA07 - synth action control board, sequencer, Programmable Poly Arp, Orchestral sounds, Basic Synth sounds (those needing only 1 effect, or 1 modulation source).
3. Blofeld - complex evolving patches (3 complete Oscillators and complex capable Mod Matrix) that doesnt require real time manual manipulation, with decent FX, 2nd Programmable Poly Arp
4: DM 12 - patches requiring complex modulation, that can be achieved with more limited Oscillators, but that has greater FX capability and real time manipulation. 3rd Programmable Arp.
Im struggling to see a downside here (as they will fit side by side behind the FA07) with the exception that Id need a Midi splitter (the Blofeld doesnt have Midi through meaning I cant daisy chain from FA to DM to Blofeld to RD) and small audio Mixer (No audio ins on the DM or Blofeld). Adds a little cost BUT:
Deep Mind 12 D - £550. Blofeld £380, Midi Splitter £40, Audio Mixer £80. Total £1050.
DSI Rev 2, 8 Voice £1080
Peak £1035.
Given that setup is the same total cost as either other option........ Does that sound like the most complete package?
I have the Prophet Rev 2 and have been trying to find a Virus Ti2 for the right money (I had a Virus B years ago).
The prophet is a darker tone- very warm.
The Virus is more diverse but Access have been concentrating their energies on the Kemper and have not updated it for ages.
If buying new then no question, a Prophet Rev 2.
If buying used then I could go either way.
Studio: https://www.voltperoctave.com
Music: https://www.euclideancircuits.com
Me: https://www.jamesrichmond.com
Only other thing I'd add are that the FX on the Blofeld are probably its weakest aspect, and you can't manipulate them from the mod matrix. The DM12 will be different class in that regard, but you won't be short of options with that combo
In Fact the Rev 2 looks like it has more/better FX as well.
BUT, Ive just finished a chat with a Beta tester for Peaks new FW - and it adds the ability to Mod FX functions AND adds 2 more LFOs as well as a much more comprehensive Wave table function (and of course it has FM as well). Add to that its seem a £100 drop in price over the last week so now comes in at £990 v Rev 2 (8 voice) £1110.
The only remaining Downside is its 8 note polyphony - which cant be upgraded unlike the Rev 2 - and that Rev 2 is Bi-Timbral so you could have a 4 Osc patch - though realistically Id need the 16 Voice Rev to really make use of that.
Think I might just grab a Peak tomorrow....