Posts Tagged ‘Synthesizer’

Yamaha MOX6 61 key synthesizer Video Review

Here is what one reviewer had to say about the Yamaha MOX6 Synthesizer.

PRO’s

Excellent instrument sounds (Voices), and combinations (with layers and splits of up to 4 instruments, called Performances by Yamaha) and around 6700 arps (with arp setups keyed to preset instruments). The MOX6 itself, Yamaha computer downloads (Editiors, USB interface, etc.), documentation and packaging are all top-notch. Excellent and intuitive internal song recorder.

Excellent integration with PC or Mac, including a very useful USB audio downloadable interface that works with nearly any DAW, (I use Goldwave and just set the input to Yamaha MOX6). Cubase AI 5 is included. Lightweight, about 15 pounds – most power in a light keyboard that I know of. Easy A/D integration with its own panel gain knob that allows connections to external instruments and sends the mixed audio thru USB to your DAW.

Workstation production is straightforward once you learn Yamaha’s way of constructing instrument combinations (Performances) and arps (1 per instrument so max of 4 per combination). Category and Favorite buttons and arps indexed by instrument ease finding what you want to play. Patterns, Yamaha’s term for short musical loops/passages that can be arranged to form a song, are promising. Motifator.com continues to be an excellent source of information and support.

CONS

Picking alternate arps for a voice (other than the preset arps for that voice) is time consuming and cumbersome – I use a laptop to scan the 6700 choices. Mixing is a bit awkward in combinations (Performances) requiring an edit, should have used the 4 knobs to mix volume for the 4 instruments in a combination (maybe the top 4 for volume, the bottom 4 for pan) without edit – but mixing in a DAW is excellent using the downloadable Yamaha editor.

No aftertouch and 64 instead of 128 voices but the voices have been more than sufficient so far for me. I find Cubase AI 5 clumsy and complicated — although it is powerful. Yamaha’s free downloadable editors and interfaces are very good but more comprehensive and usuable editors are available (search for ‘MOX total editor’, software such as this should be included with the instrument).

Click here for the best price on a new Yamaha MOX6

Korg MONOTRIBE Synthesizer

In a world seemingly ruled by digital, Korg created an analog sensation with the palm-sized monotron Analogue Ribbon Synthesizer. Korg has once again raised the analog banner with the amazing monotribe Analog Ribbon Station; a new form of synthesizer that packs an amazing array of features and technology into its compact body.

Korgs monotribe shares the monotrons analog DNA, yet quickly delves deeper into the rich, organic, and often chaotic world of analog synthesis. In addition to analog synthesis, monotribe brings together intuitive ease of use and a three-part discrete analog rhythm section, plus the proven appeal of Electribe-style sequencing. Complete with a built-in speaker and battery power, monotribe is self-contained and highly portable.

True Analog Synthesis The monotribes sound engine uses technology old and new, merging the powerful sound of analog synthesis with the dexterity and playability required in todays groove making environments. Analog technology is essential for fast and responsive control, and delivers the full sonic spectrum from warm and easy-going to full-throttle rampage.Three-Part Analog DrumsThe monotribe provides a three-part rhythm section powered by discrete analog circuitry; bass drum, snare, and hi-hat. These three sounds were the key elements in a generation of analog beat making, and are still in demand today. Use these powerful drum sounds to generate distinctive beats attainable only from the monotribe.

Electribe-Style Groove Creation For over a decade, Korg’s Electribe Series has served as the standard tools for dance music and DJ work, and has earned outstanding popularity, even appearing recently as top-selling iPad app.
Click here for the best price on the Korg Monotribe Synth.