I feel like I might be at the top of another slippery slope here, but synths...
I know my way around a keyboard, I can hammer out chords and a few basic leads, and I've tried a few synths already. Not quite sure where to start. I'm looking for something to create big atmospheric soundtrack with a dark edge to them, also love dance music like Underworld and grubby deep house so would like to be able to create those sounds/textures as well.
@GavRichList already recommended a Korg Minilogue as a good starting point in terms of what it can do, and it does look really good. I might have a budget for one of those plus a Moog Mother 32 or Sub Phatty.
I love the Moog sound, so would probably be looking down the analogue synth route, but it's not polyphonic (which is something I'd prefer but might be willing to sacrifice for "that" Moog sound). It would also have to have an arpeggiator and sequencer.
I've tried and really loved the Sub 37 (though polyphony and the Prophet Rev 2 (and the Novation peak), and would like to give the Matrixbrute a try. On one hand these are high-end synths that do a LOT and it would be a lot of money and one argument is to start simple and build up as I get into it. On the other hand, if I were to start with one high-end do-a-lot synth, you can still start simply and learn gradually to use all the features.
Not asking much, am I? Help out a synth novice, please...
... or put me off, tell me to stick to the guitar and save myself from a whole different world of potential GAS!
Comments
It is difficult to go far wrong with a Roland Juno-106 or -60. These are not the most powerful or complex analogue synthesizers on the pre-owned market but they make sounds that fit in a mix.
If you already have a MIDI Controller keyboard, consider collecting a few pre-owned synth modules. You will get plenty of juicy sounds from an E-Mu Orbit 3 or Xtreme Lead. (It is even possible to mix and match E-Mu Proteus family sound set ROMs into one module.) My other recommendation is the Roland JD-990 with the SR-JV80-04 Vintage Synth ROM Expansion board installed.
Not much goImg around for poly synths at the moment, Dave Smith seems to have cornered most of the market unless you want to buy something vintage. Ambika is pretty highly rated but not sure if they are still available now Mutable Instruments have gone Eurorack.
You could get a mono synth or two and use a software synth such as Diva for your polyphonic needs.
I used to have a Roland Ghaia - that was stacked with useable sounds and sounded good when recorded - but isn't analogue.
I know what your saying about the Moog thing though - its does a 'fuller' sound
Edit - sorry meant to say - I am in North Wales - your welcome to come round and have a fiddle (ahem)
A few other thoughts, the Roland se02 is out, the behringer model D is due soon.
https://theproaudiofiles.com/ios-music-production-synth-apps/
http://www.musicradar.com/news/tech/23-of-the-best-ipad-iphone-ios-synth-apps-571053
add a midi controller to suit your budget ...
It also has a 'panel' mode which is ideal for novices (and is still my preference) for starting to programme from scratch.
Been thoroughly enjoying the Prophet this weekend:
https://instagram.com/p/BcPGGs8Ab--/