A Deep Dive into Compact Synthesizers: Unleashing Sonic Power and Creativity
Preamble on the resurgence of analog synthesizers and their appeal
Korg Minilogue XD
A Fusion of Form and Functionality
The Korg Minilogue XD emerges as a compelling choice for beginners, seamlessly blending features from the original Minilogue and the flagship Prologue 8. Korg has crafted a synth that not only caters to novices but also brings a plethora of features for seasoned enthusiasts.
Design and Build: The Minilogue XD boasts a robust construction with a sturdy metal case, metal-shafted pots, and real wood on the rear panel. The top panel’s smart design incorporates essential controls, offering a mixer section, two VCOs, an amp envelope generator, a filter, a second assignable envelope generator, and a diverse array of FX. The presence of a step sequencer, supporting real-time, motion, and step recording, adds versatility. Korg has meticulously considered design and ergonomics, avoiding the frustration of navigating through menus to sculpt the desired sound.
Polyphony and Voice Modes: With four analog voices, the Minilogue XD delivers powerful performance at a fraction of the cost compared to the Prologue. The synth offers various voice modes, including standard poly voicing, stacked detuned unison voicing, chord voice mode, and arpeggiator voice mode with 13 different patterns. Additionally, the Prologue Multi-engine, acting as a third oscillator, introduces custom sound engines such as FM and wavetable, elevating the sonic possibilities.
Multi-Engine and Oscillators: The Multi-Engine, akin to the Prologue’s, provides an expansive sonic palette, restricted to four-note polyphony. The inclusion of user oscillators and effects expands the synth’s capabilities further. The two VCOs, each with three waves and adjustable pitch and shape controls, offer flexibility and warmth. Cross modulation, sync, and ring modulation contribute to sonic richness, turning the Minilogue XD into a versatile instrument.
Filter and Effects: The two-pole filter design, while losing the four-pole option, proves versatile with a wide frequency range. The drive switch and self-oscillating resonance add grit and character to the sound. The Minilogue XD excels in creating dark, moody textures, as well as aggressive tones. The effects section introduces a new dimension, surpassing the original Minilogue. Simultaneous delay, reverb, and mod effects, alongside 10 effect types, enhance the sonic landscape.
Sequencer and Arpeggiator: The sequencer receives a significant upgrade, incorporating features from the Monologue. With improved functionality, including swing, gate length, and sequence length parameters, the sequencer offers a dynamic and expressive performance. The arpeggiator, working simultaneously with the sequencer, adds further creative possibilities with 13 modes, including rise/fall, random, manual, and poly.
Joystick and Controls: The Minilogue XD introduces a spring-loaded metal joystick, allowing natural pitch bending and assignable positions for added sonic exploration. Dedicated controls like portamento, (V)oice (M)ode (D)epth, and a range of modes contribute to an expressive playing experience.
Conclusion: Choosing between the original and XD, the latter emerges as a preferred option due to its powerful sequencer, extended versatility, user-customizable Multi-Engine/effects, real-time joystick control, and motion-sequenceable stereo effects/output. With additional features like user scales/tunings, damper pedal jack, dual-CV inputs, and inspiring vibes, the Minilogue XD stands as a unique and welcomed addition to Korg’s synth lineup.
Pros:
- Versatile Tone Fusion: Remarkable mix of analog and digital tones, especially excelling in creating lush pad sounds.
- Innovative Oscillator: User-programmable oscillator offers vast creative opportunities, empowering musicians to explore unique sonic realms.
- Hands-On Control: Abundant tactile controls facilitate intuitive and direct manipulation, enhancing the user’s creative experience.
- Sturdy Build: Robust and durable construction ensures the synthesizer’s longevity, providing reliability for extensive use.
Cons:
- Compact Keys: The compact key size may pose challenges for individuals with larger hands, potentially affecting playability.
- Arpeggiator Limitations: The arpeggiator lacks programmability, restricting users from fully customizing rhythmic patterns. Additionally, the absence of key triggering/holding functionality for the sequencer limits expressive possibilities.
Korg Volca Keys
A Gateway to Sonic Exploration
If you’re in the market for an affordable yet thrilling synthesizer experience, look no further than the Korg Volca Keys. Positioned as part of the extensive Volca series, renowned for introducing enthusiasts to the world of synthesis, the Volca Keys stands out as an enticing and budget-friendly option.
Design and Build: Crafted for on-the-go music creation, the Volca Keys features a battery-operated design housed in a compact form factor. While it may not boast the most intricate design, it more than compensates with its user-friendly layout. The synth’s 27 ribbon keys and loop sequencer provide a hands-on experience, making it an excellent choice for those diving into the realm of synthesis.
Polyphony and Sound Engine: The Volca Keys, with its miniature polyphonic analog engine, may not compete with higher-end synths in terms of complexity, but it excels in delivering a larger-than-life sound. The simplicity of its design doesn’t hinder creativity; in fact, it encourages exploration. The voice dial allows you to effortlessly blend the three oscillators, offering various modes such as Poly, Fifth, Unison, Unison Ring, and Poly Ring.
Controls and Sequencer: Navigating the basic controls is a breeze, following the conventional path of subtractive synthesis. The synth provides hands-on control possibilities, allowing users to fine-tune their sounds using parameters like VCO, LFO, VCF, and EG knobs. A 16-step step sequencer, expandable with active step and overdub functions, enhances the creative potential, enabling dynamic step sequencer performances.
Pros:
- Affordability: Priced competitively, the Volca Keys is an economical entry into the world of synthesis.
- Intuitive Layout: The hands-on controls and simple design make it easy for beginners to get started.
- Larger-than-Life Sound: Despite its compact size and budget-friendly price, the synth delivers a surprisingly robust sound.
Cons:
- No MIDI Out: The absence of MIDI out functionality might limit its connectivity options for some users.
Conclusion: In summary, the Korg Volca Keys emerges as a budget-friendly gateway for enthusiasts eager to delve into synthesis. Its affordability, intuitive design, and impressive sound make it a standout choice for those starting their synthesis journey. While it may lack some advanced features found in pricier options, the Volca Keys strikes a fantastic balance between accessibility, playability, and sonic prowess, ensuring an exciting and inspiring musical exploration.
- Arturia Minibrute 2: Combining analog ingenuity with modular architecture
Behringer DeepMind 12
A Synthesis Revolution
In the realm of hardware synthesizers, the Behringer Deepmind 12 stands tall as a game-changer. Breaking away from Behringer’s previous reputation, the Deepmind 12 introduces a fresh perspective, establishing itself as an exceptional choice for both newcomers and seasoned synthesizer aficionados.
Value for Money: Priced at less than $1,000, the Deepmind 12 offers unparalleled value for money. With a generous 12-voice polyphony, the synth opens up a myriad of stacking options, from simple doubling to a robust 12-voice monophonic ensemble. While it lacks multi-timbral capabilities, the Deepmind 12 excels in delivering lush and captivating multi-voice tones within its affordable price range.
Features and Modulation: The standout feature is the Mod Matrix, boasting 22 modulation sources and over 100 destinations. This extensive modulation capability provides a playground for sculpting sounds. The inclusion of a 32-step sequencer and a tablet remote control with built-in Wi-Fi adds a modern touch, elevating the overall user experience.
Oscillator Section: The oscillator section, comprising two oscillators and a noise source, showcases thoughtful design with intuitive manual, envelope, and LFO controls. Offering a variety of waveforms, the Tone Modulation parameter adds depth, setting the Deepmind 12 apart in tonal versatility.
Poly Section and Filter: The poly section introduces unison modes, enhancing the sound with various stacking configurations. The Detune parameter enriches the pitch-stable oscillators, while the ‘drift’ feature introduces non-linearity, deviating from the clinical sound engine. The filter section, with 24dB and 12dB/octave options, becomes a pitch-stable third oscillator, and the VCA section, complemented by a depth control, contributes to an effective stereo spread, especially when paired with the unison modes.
Effects and Modulation Possibilities: Behringer’s expertise in effects shines through with 34 DSP-derived effects inspired by classic units. While not surpassing standalone units in quality, these effects significantly expand the Deepmind 12’s sonic palette. The synth’s envelope and LFO sections offer extensive modulation possibilities, with the dedicated Mod Matrix rivaling many soft synths in functionality. The ARP/SEQ section adds further depth with a feature-rich arpeggiator and pattern sequencer.
Drawbacks: Despite its impressive features, the editing system could benefit from more front-panel controls, requiring occasional menu diving. The absence of an FX bypass button is a minor inconvenience, and the reliance on effects for character might not appeal to purists. The audible internal fans, though optional to turn off, pose uncertainties regarding long-term consequences.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the Behringer Deepmind 12 represents a departure from Behringer’s past, delivering an original and compelling synthesizer. With its exceptional features, robust build, and innovative design, it positions itself as one of the best options in its price range, catering to the needs of both newcomers and seasoned synthesizer enthusiasts alike.
Pros:
- Affordability: Offers great features at a budget-friendly price.
- Polyphony: 12 voices allow for rich and complex sounds.
- Deep Editing: Extensive controls for sound customization.
- Built-in Effects: Integrated reverb, chorus, and delay simplify setup.
Cons:
- Build Quality: Concerns about plastic construction durability.
- Menu Diving: Some functions require navigating menus.
- Weight: Relatively heavy, less portable.
- Originality Concerns: Criticism for closely emulating other designs.
.Behringer Model D
Timeless Resonance Revisited
Behringer’s Model D Analog Synthesizer emerges as a contemporary ode to the legendary Minimoog Model D, securing its place as a standout in the domain of budget-friendly analog synths. With an initial price tag that raised eyebrows at just $299, this compact powerhouse seamlessly captures the essence of its iconic predecessor while integrating thoughtful upgrades.
Oscillating Legacy:
The front panel unfolds a familiar three-oscillator setup, offering a palette of five waveform options. The signal gracefully flows through a 24dB ladder filter, a departure from the original Model D’s exclusive low-pass filter – a tasteful modern refinement. The filter, characterized by its distinctive squelch and resonant self-oscillation, imparts a vintage touch to the Model D’s sonic canvas.
Simplicity in Form, Richness in Sound:
The user interface maintains simplicity with chunky knobs and sturdy switches, reminiscent of the Model D’s analog heritage. The absence of patch storage aligns seamlessly with the “what you see is what you get” philosophy, urging users to document or capture settings externally.
Versatility Unleashed:
Behringer’s Model D embraces versatility by accommodating both tabletop and Eurorack-compatible formats. This dual nature facilitates standalone use, integration into DAW setups via USB/MIDI, or seamless incorporation into larger modular systems through 1/8″ Eurorack-compatible inputs and outputs on the faceplate.
Resilient Performance:
In the performance arena, the Model D has proven its resilience since its 2017 debut. Despite subsequent Behringer synth releases, including reissues of other classics, none quite match the Model D’s iconic status and sonic legacy. The robust build, featuring durable switches and knobs, has endured prolonged studio use with unwavering reliability.
Unforeseen Ingenuity:
A surprising highlight is the Model D’s utility as a makeshift MIDI-to-CV converter. Leveraging its USB input for note information, users can route Gate and CV signals, offering a convenient solution for sequencing other modular gear within a DAW environment lacking a DC-coupled audio interface.
Continuous Evolution:
Behringer’s commitment to improvement is evident through firmware updates, such as version 1.1.1 in December 2018. These updates addressed poly chain settings and enhanced re-trigger reliability during legato note play, refining the Model D’s performance.
In Summary:
The Behringer Model D has masterfully carved its niche, harmonizing vintage charm with contemporary adaptability. Despite the absence of patch storage, its authentic analog sound, dual-format flexibility, and continuous updates position it as a dependable and budget-friendly choice for enthusiasts and producers alike. Behringer’s inaugural synth clone, devoid of patch saving, has undeniably etched its place as a well-regarded classic in the annals of synthesis history.
Pros:
- Authentic Analog Sound: Captures the essence of classic analog synthesis, delivering rich and authentic tones.
- Compact and Portable: Its compact design and portability make it an ideal choice for on-the-go musicians and studio setups with limited space.
- Affordability: Provides an affordable entry point into analog synthesis without compromising on sound quality.
- Semi-Modular Design: Semi-modular architecture allows for flexible signal routing and integration with other modular gear.
Cons:
- Limited Polyphony: As a monophonic synthesizer, it produces one note at a time, limiting its capability for chords and polyphonic arrangements.
- No Built-in Effects: Lack of integrated effects may require additional equipment for those seeking a broader sonic palette.
- No Preset Memory: The absence of preset memory means users must recreate patches manually, which may be inconvenient for those accustomed to saving and recalling settings.
- Build Quality Concerns: Some users have expressed concerns about the durability of certain components, questioning the overall build quality.
- Yamaha Reface CS: A compact synthesizer that doesn’t compromise on versatility