A Realized Dream of Digital Synthesis

Perfect Circuit : bit.ly/3fYmnDB
Reverb : reverb.grsm.io...
ONE CORRECTION : ASM commented to say the battery life has been tested to be 4+ in rechargeable batteries, chopped out the bit where I got it wrong.
This took a lot of writing, and re-writing, and I still left some insightful things out.
First, I wish I had a good place to say that the explorer in some ways takes better advantage of the digital domain when compared to the larger siblings because its smaller and cheaper. And that's the real promise of good sounding digital synthesis ; smaller size and lower prices.
And, while it might seem bottomless, theres some evidence that processing power is not unlimited on the hydrasynth. Oscillator 3 is missing mutants, and the wave scanning options from 1 and 2, and the second filter is a simple virtual analog one, without the selection of specific models like filter one.
0:00 Intro / Thesis
1:57 My Relationship with ASM
2:53 He pleads for support
4:20 Explorer Specifics
9:36 Thoughts on the Hydrasynth Engine
13:15 Inspiration from Hardware History
13:59 THE Hydrasynth Sound
16:18 Brief Poly Aftertouch Talk
17:28 Closure
#hydrasynth #synthesizer

[@hnryjmes]

Jorb is like that friend who, despite knowing a lot more than you, has such a clear and engaging way of explaining things that somehow they make you feel like you're the smart one

[@JorbLovesGear]

Very kind, cheers. You are the smart one, that's what you're realizing. 😁

[@blablablablabittybla561]

Jorbsplaining?

[@tedstahl3794]

Having had the delightful opportunity to speak with him in person throughout Knobcon this last year, I can confirm that he's like that in person.

[@Ferrichrome]

@@JorbLovesGear wholesome lol

[@djlworldwide2012]

Jorb is like that guy who would raise you as his own kid even if he's not your biological father #jorbislike

[@KimmoVirtanen]

After watching this video, I ended up on a 2-week Hydrasynth-related video watching binge that ultimately led to me buying the Deluxe and starting to build a small home studio of my own. 🙌

[@JorbLovesGear]

🙏🙏🙏

[@payt01]

That's kindof what happens once you start watching Hydrasynth videos. I've got my regular Hydrasynth on it's way as well :P.

[@ulvessens5902]

​@payt01 Seriously considering getting the HS Explorer as my first digital, but found out it doesn't have a sequencer :(

[@funnzie]

@@ulvessens5902 Adding a sequencer like the Korg SQ-1 is simple. I personally hate sequencers on synths taking up valuable room for physical controls.

[@AshunSoundMachines]

Thanks for the great video Jorb! Some very nice points. Explorer battery life has been extensively tested to be 4+ hours on rechargeable batteries!

[@JorbLovesGear]

Cheers thanks for correcting, I'll add a note of that. Sorry for just repeating that point!

[@JorbLovesGear]

Post-edited that mis-info out, should update in a few hours. Cheers!

[@AuntAlnico4]

That's really great considering my volca gets just about the same battery life.

[@BrentODell]

Great video. I may be alone in this, but the lack of a sequencer is one of the things about this line that got my attention. I have a KeyStep Pro, an MPC Live II, and a Dirtywave M8(and a computer). I have sequencers coming out my ears. If leaving that feature out helped keep the price down and/or improve the layout/UI, it's 100% worth it for me.

[@Mattbuchanan71]

I always think to myself after a Jorb video, …man, I wish I was friends with that guy and could drop by his house and check out his thoughts (And gear).. and yet somehow, after each video, I feel like I am actually friends with Jorb, we just haven’t met yet. You are a treasure to KZbin, good man! Pulling the trigger on a Hydrasynth soon!!

[@Death_By_Media]

The Hydra is one of the best synths out there right now . I can’t imagine how mind blowing it would be to be a tween or teen starting out today with access to the explorer model with not only the vast synth engine, but also poly aftertouch ! Good vid Jorb and many kiddos to Glen at ASM dude has been behind many , many great instruments over the years .

[@JorbLovesGear]

He's got a real winner with the hydrasynth line, the respect for synth history is really clear

[@joshuamorganmusic]

Glen is amazing! This synth is a dream to program and since I got my desktop it’s replaced over 90% of my VST’s and vintage synths

[@AuntAlnico4]

​@@joshuamorganmusic is crazy how much this one synth covers ! Isn't it !?

[@joshuamorganmusic]

@@AuntAlnico4 Hail Hydrasynth🤘lolz! But srsly yeah, this synth is the best I’ve ever owned. And that’s saying quite a bit given the array of synths I’ve had over the years.

[@patrickfitzgerald2861]

Thank you for this, and also for mentioning the Sarah Belle Reid video. Her performance on this machine makes it very clear what it is capable of doing in the right hands.

[@mimikova390]

I believe the perfec musician for the hydrasynth is a player that has been down the modular rabbit hole but is looking for an easier way to recall and perform. It offers the flexibility of a huge modular rig without the hassle of a gazillion patch cords. But no one cares what I think.

[@pianoyan]

I care, as that’s precisely the reason I’m interested I it! I’m trying to avoid the modular rabbit hole, by finding one or two pieces of gear that can do much of what I’d get from a modular system without the expense, time drain, and constant churning of modules. Thinking about the Explorer plus one analogue mono synth.

[@cbmetalgod88]

Yeah, pretty much. I've been using the Moog Matriarch for years, but really wanted something that I could use to easily save settings and sounds. I just ordered it today! This thing has a ton of flexibility and yes, removing all that patch cables is going to be awesome. Also, your opinion absolutely matters! These are the kinds of comments I'm looking for.

[@ChrisEchoesMusic]

You’re not a shill. Keep loving gear and staying fed and housed, comrade.

[@tedstahl3794]

Outstanding overview, my friend. You really brought a smile to my face with the shout out and reference to the "I" word! Long live the interface revolution!!! I think you made a really good point about it not being a synth for everyone. Some of us live so far down the patch design rabbit hole that we forget that not everyone wants an instrument that can go so deep. It can be overwhelming. However, for those of us who want that kind of control, the Hydrasynth is unparalleled in it's ability to make those modulation routings quickly accessible and easily implemented. Looking forward to your video on the mutants! Always a pleasure to watch your videos! Peace.

[@JorbLovesGear]

Cheers Ted, and thank you! I did genuinely stumble into that, saying "INTERFACE" out loud, brought me back to our chat. It was a great few days to get really familiar with it, happy to have been considered.

[@lundsweden]

Jorb, I trust you, and in any case the Hydrasynth has a really good reputation. People are already calling it a future classic!

[@BayMud]

Very interested in checking one of these out. For what it's worth, I also enjoy your demeanor/presentation. Looking forward to more

[@JorbLovesGear]

Its worth a lot, cheers for that

[@jordandavenport2819]

Well Jorb it all started a few months ago when I stumble upon your video where you advocate for the Minilogue as your first synth. I never cared for synthesizers before watching that video. Now I've bought a Hydrasynth Explorer and Im absolutely hooked. After years of playing guitar, this has revitalized my interest in creating music. Thanks!

[@JorbLovesGear]

Very proud to hear it, thank you very much.

[@MrMarcLaflamme]

There's a benefit to hiding things behind a menu, but there's also a downside to doing it. Great video Jorb, really happy to have found your channel!

[@JorbLovesGear]

Cheers, happy to have you! Definitely, it is a ~choice

[@treetopjones737]

If you demand knob-per-function, you're going to have to pay.

[@_P_M_]

As I attempted to replicate my favorite Reason synths in hardware I chose the Hydra desktop as a replacement for Reason Maelstrom. I still haven't dug deep into it yet but what a great value. Very SOLID build quality and powerful wavetable-style synthesis. I understand it doesn't have actual sampled waveforms in it but who cares? It sounds incredible. If it had a Waldorf or Sequential name badge it would cost 3x as much. Turning the knobs reminds me of a 1970's stereo receiver. Just very satisfying to work with. The lighted buttons all have caps instead of just exposed silicone switches. Just feels like quality. I'll be paying close attention to anything Glen Darcey is involved with in the future. He shares that love of great electronic instruments informed by the classics.

[@malikdavis6091]

Bro OMG same here I was looking for something close to the Europa in Hardware form in damn this is it. I pretty much learned everything from Europa. Now I'm a synth wizard

[@iancain6647]

Bro it's awesome watching you come up!

[@iancain6647]

Btw the jam break idea is brilliant

[@JorbLovesGear]

Ah cheers, really appreciate that. Jam breaks are a way for me to use all the footage I sneak while I'm learning a piece of gear! lol

[@robertescher3082]

I purchased one on Friday... I've spent two days with this thing and I gotta say, I feel like I am driving a Ferrari that has been modified to drive like a Minivan - which is to say, there is a LOT of horsepower under the hood, but the control flow is laid out in a very intuitive way. And yeah, for $600? I challenge anyone to find more bang for your buck. As for the sound of it... I dig what you said... This thing can sound anywhere from an old school Moog, to sounds that usually only come out of Euro-racks. Kinda like the Access Virus series... another synth that may not really have its own sound so much as it's really good at imitating a whole bunch of others.

[@treetopjones737]

Older person, back in the 80's reasonable price full features synth meant MONO. Back then I got a new S. Circuits Pro-1 for same price as the 8 "voice" Explorer NOW ( could make great sounds, but mono was so frustrating ). Thank god for technology moving forward so we don't have to sell a kidney to have THIS MUCH in one.

[@dannymontreal6316]

You weird me oot with the gear selections. I feel like the bald Canadian jorb. I have a very similar path through gear, buying and selling used micros to make some cash to afford the “dream” studio. Hydrasynth desktop on the way in a straight trade for a digitakt I found for $500 CAD. Everybody, this is the BEST synth channel. Jorb mob!

[@JorbLovesGear]

Lol, great minds. Much appreciated! And, Jorb Mob is now a frontrunner for what to call.....you guys lmao

[@dannymontreal6316]

Yeah dude, Jorb horde? No…Jorb Brood? Hatched from a Jorb Clutch? Spawn of Jorb? Jorb Mob…I think that’s it.

[@matthewwilson3673]

hoping to grab one of these, glad they brought in a model most people can afford without saving for months at a time

[@JorbLovesGear]

Absolutely, its a great move

[@orka268]

I dream of jorb yt notifications

[@JorbLovesGear]

I do too, except mine are crowd rejection nightmares.

[@orka268]

@@JorbLovesGear 😩😭

[@crazyhorse52395]

Great video Jorb, you have definitely validated my preorder. I am especially excited by your comparison to the microkorg - I sold mine years ago but I miss that little guy, warts and all. Looking forward to your mutants video, hopefully I will have my Hydra on hand by the time that is out =)

[@JorbLovesGear]

Cheers, good to know! Yeah, I've got to figure out the order of my next few videos, fit something in between this one and the mutants.

[@jawsxx8683]

I play one of these in my studio and often layer it with my old korg wavestation. They pair amazingly. I haven't dug into it much but still think it sounds amazing.

[@samsam2235]

Would have loved to hear more from the synth itself, but it's still an entertaining and informative video. Thanx.

[@J47-f8y]

Stop giving me GAS!! Love the channel dude. Great video as always.

[@teddybearasaurus]

Honestly 😂🤯🔥🙏🏽🙌🏽

[@JorbLovesGear]

My bad lol.

[@AdamsBrew78]

I went with the 49-keys Hydra and it ended up replacing my Komplete Kontrol s61 as my primary midi controller - which I never expected the trade off of losing the extra range to be worth it. But the poly after-touch and touch strip really opens up a whole new world of expression in supported VSTs. Gforce OB-E in particular is a phenomenal pairing - a perfectly lush analog counter-point to Hydrasynths clean digital tones.

[@AuntAlnico4]

I get killer bass and dystopic distorted tones but it's a fine line you have to counter.

[@ttthisisthehaunt]

Amazing vid homie. My next synth fosho (when I can justify it). Glad u made this one

[@JorbLovesGear]

Cheers fam! I'm willing to bet there's gonna be a wave of used ones when people upgrade to the deluxe, and maybe some when people realize the explorer isn't for them.

[@markusw9286]

Jorb and make a bad video, doesn't compute. I wish all my teachers were like you Jorb. Thank you.

[@BrentODell]

My Explorer is supposed to be here tomorrow! The other three models are currently on sale a lot of places, so the desktop is only $100 more rather then 200. I was originally going to get the Desktop, in part because I'm a guitar/bass player, and I liked the idea of being able to set up the pads in fretboard mode. I decided to get the Explorer because the I decided I should learn to play keys better, and the pitch and mod controls on the left should be fun

[@benbauer1065]

Great review Jorb. I would love to see a video focusing on the Mutants

[@JorbLovesGear]

It's in the pipe, just need to find time to learn and then teach

[@embodie_breaks7089]

The next synth purchase I was looking at the was the Hydrasynth Deluxe just because I no longer have any 61 Key or more synths. This small guy looks wonderful. For real. It is a dream.

[@JorbLovesGear]

Deluxe is quite impressive, could really well be the main keyboard for a lot of uses

[@embodie_breaks7089]

@@JorbLovesGear yeah exactly. The mpc live and the explorer look like a pair though

[@KarlRKaiser]

Another benefit of the oscilloscope screen is that when my synth glitches and blasts out noise (do I have a lemon?), the scope shows that it originates in the circuitry.

[@funnzie]

Yea, I am confused about Medeli. I purchased an Medeli AKX-10, which was reviewed as equal to a Yamaha PSR SX700, but after six months of fiddling with touch parameters I could not control the keybed to engine. In desperation to keep this keyboard I MIDI cabled to it from my Roland RD-2000 keyboard and still could not control it accurately. My test of keybed to engine is to play acoustic piano samples. Alternatively I have a Kurtzweil PC4 shockingly with a Medeli keybed and it is very controllable, very happy with it. So why an instrument with Medeli's name on it has a problem I don't know.

[@patrickkearney1577]

I bought the keyboard version a year ago. Things I would most miss in order are an octave, the ribbon and expression pedal. Four macros are sufficient while playing. No hydrasynth has a true sequencer but all synths seem to fall short on sequencer capability. I use an Akai MPC One, which has an excellent performance/price. I like the portability of the Explorer but would rather trade my Keyboard for a Deluxe.

[@enochroot9438]

I recently saw some vids on the Deluxe and it looks amazing, hoping to get one at some point in the future

[@JorbLovesGear]

It certainly does impress.

[@teddybearasaurus]

Better value? Hydrosynth explorer vs Microfreak vocoder edition. What you think?

[@JorbLovesGear]

For me, explorer. Microfreak I'm kinda torn on

[@musicman4christjesus]

I think both will be best of both worlds! I got my Microfreak ow saving for a HydraSynth explorer. ❤❤❤

[@earlsfield]

I own quite a lot of digital and hybrid synths (and analogue ones), but I must say Hydrasynth is a the best digital synth that came out for years (with Iridium, but Hs cost 1/4 of Iridium, and while I am in love with both, this has to be said. It is transparent that ASM had solid idea what they want to build, where they want to place it price-wise and what features this synth will rock. i got myself a desktop version as I don't have enough space, but I am missing that theremin feature. However, I cannot believe how versatile this synth is - I composed soundtracks for games and movies of all genres, designed sound effects, and used it in tons of different music genres - it works like a charm. No wonder ASM delivered explorer and Deluxe. While Deluxe might be a bit too expensive, two layers of Hydrasynth are teaser enough. However, rather than deluxe, I would get something like UDO 6 to follow up on binaural split. HS is one of the best synths that came out there as a complete, well thought- out product, and I can only wish

[@JorbLovesGear]

Deluxe is about 1000$ less than the Super 6, if I remember right. Every tier of the hydrasynth is more affordable than its functional competitors, really is impressive.

[@stopmikeandjim3196]

They had the entire Hydrasynth range on sale this weekend, and I ended up picking up the 49-key version. I'm not familiar with wavetable synthesis, so I'm guessing I have a lot of studying to do

[@AuntAlnico4]

Awesome ! How's it going in the hydrasynth world !? Are you using it all the time !? I can't turn off my Explorer after turning it on ! I even let it arp an drone all day sometimes ! It's awesome !

[@stopmikeandjim3196]

@@AuntAlnico4 It's become my #1 synth. I bought a Korg SQ-64 to go with it.

[@KeilCas]

what is the tick at 2:12? you purrrred one yourself? and a scratch of the head. that was strange.

[@huntergalloway3944]

I’m pretty sure R2R had redacted the 2 hour battery thing saying he forgot they were old batteries. I think the battery life is more like 4-5 hours. This will definitely be my next synth. It’s the perfect size to be my controller and give me the aftertouch my Opsix that I’m currently using as a controller lacks. It’s still a tough call to pick this over the Modwave, for me at least. I’ve been so impressed with everything about the Opsix but it’s build quality, so hearing how this feels is good to hear. Hail hydra. Great demo, you ol’ shill, you! (Keep it forever)

[@JorbLovesGear]

Oh, thanks for that I'll look into it a bit more. Chop the keyboard off the OpSix, make it a module. Cheers, thank you!

[@SuchaDoofus]

The Modwave looks really powerful and sounds amazing. My fear is that its just a bit of a menu diver..... The Hydra just avoids that, with the module section, and has nice OLED screens.

[@blacrabbit5838]

As far as features per dollar the minifreak is giving it a run for its money. Ever consider doing a review of the minifreak?

[@sauce_aux]

If I didn’t already have all the hardware integration with the computer, I would definitely have a hydrasynth, without question. Such a great synth. Awesome video Jorb! And an edit to say, yeah, definitely microkorg vibes.

[@JorbLovesGear]

Cheers, thank you! Yeah it has the same spirit.

[@stephanelemey]

Hi, thanks a lot for this video ! What would you recommend between this beautiful synth and the Minifreak ? I'm a guitarist and want a synth for jamming with friends. I like soul, funk, etc. Are there too many possibilities with this one? I'm not specialized in sound design

[@willfowles3654]

I’m guessing you’ve probably discovered this yourself in the subsequent months but just in case - apart from the semi-locked step LFO method of developing sequences you can also use the Order mode of the Arp. You can’t tie notes or have rests but it registers multiple repeat notes. This may be super common in poly synth arps, but this is my first one so apologies if pointing out the obvious here!

[@AuntAlnico4]

I can only get it to work 1/3 of times 😅😢

[@lokelosk]

I bought a Waldorf Blofeld a few months before they released the Hydrasynth Explorer, and even though I love how the Blofeld sounds, I'm really considering selling it to buy an Explorer. This video doesn't make this decision any easier. Thanks, Jorb! (Really tho, it was very informative, most other videos focus only on the bigger versions and don't talk about the experience of using the small one.)

[@JorbLovesGear]

I've been meaning to try a blofeld, I love smart mod matrices so much. Happy to do it! I'm lucky to be late to the party...LOL

[@SuchaDoofus]

Isnt Blofeld multitimbral?

[@lokelosk]

@@SuchaDoofus It is. 16-part multitimbral with "up to" 25 voices. But the number of voices is limited by the DSP usage, so depending on what you want to do, the multitimbrality becomes really limited and not that advantageous.

[@quinnzender]

Petitioning for an ASMR video of just those encoders and knobs turning

[@JorbLovesGear]

I have like, 45minutes of footage from knob con just zoomed in on knobs, close miced and turning them. lol

[@bethkarpmusic]

I can't get it to save a tapped in tempo... I want to put in tempo and apply that to eaach preset sound as I go through to select one. I have instructions but couldn't figure out which buttons it meant and have tried a lot 😂

[@JorbLovesGear]

Sorry, havent had my hands on one since the review!

[@Marco-ek8wu]

Great video Jorb, it was honest and I can relate to many of the points you mentioned. I own the explorer (got it just before Xmas) and I must say it is a beautiful and incredibly well thought out synth. For me I think it’s just too much, a programmers dream but a musicians headache. I just make music and I like fast results. I like to scan through the presets and just tweak something to my liking not start from scratch and spend all day making a lead. The hydra is limited to 5 banks of 128 presets. I would like to have seen this doubled so I can make my own tweaked patches and save them without deleting the onboard ones. You kind of need to go through all the presets, delete the ones you don’t like and then rebuild the banks leaving some space for your own patches. Sound wise I’m sure it’s more than capable but I’m finding everything I make sounds like a organ pad thingy. The random button is fun but it will take a lot of presses to get a sound that’s useable. The filters and fx are amazing, the build quality is really good and the price point is awesome. I’m keeping the hydra as I feel I need to learn more about it and it certainly has helped my synth programming skills as it’s very easy to see how it all works. I do miss the mutiltimbral side of things that you get with a vst. You can only have one instance with your daw, perhaps a vst version would be cool and it can go into controller mode (similar to the new Akai MPC’s). If I’m working on a track and its getting late then I just want to save and walk away or I want to add some more hydra that’s when it gets tricky.

[@godot5082]

For me it's the same, from scratch I only got organ kind sounds. Some very nice presets and great arp, but miss a sequencer. Great polyaftertouch. I'm thinking to sell and get the dreadbox nymphes but it's completely clean no fx, no arp, no sequencer but fully analog and hands on. Difficult decision

[@SuchaDoofus]

@@godot5082 It seems like they are opposites, synth wise. What exactly are you after if you dont mind me asking?

[@vapemcvaperson]

I'm glad I read this comment. No user patch banks or way to expand the memory to include more banks? - otherwise there's usually a bunch of presets in most synths that are worth overwriting - reminds me of the days I'd have to Sysex Dump everything into a sequence on the MPC60 to recall all the patches for a particular song. Great explanation of the synth in general and video

[@teddybearasaurus]

Honestly I loved my microkorg for many many years so if it gives you vibes of that the explorer sounds awesome. Also, since it lacks a sequencer you are saying a circuit tracks or an mpc user will love this thing🎁 lots of itches can be scratched… also if you don’t like depth… maybe the new casio😂😂😂 My soul seems to be fighting between the two

[@mindexpansionpuzzles]

The microkorg is still a sleeper hit today.

[@teddybearasaurus]

@@mindexpansionpuzzles agreed. It was a mistake to let go of but we all have gear like that🤷🏽‍♂️

[@kgrant67]

Shopping for my first synth. You mentioned that there's no built-in sequencer. I assume that I could use an external controller like a key step or something and leverage that sequencer. Is that correct? I really know nothing at this point

[@JorbLovesGear]

That's exactly right. Controllers / sequencers that send out midi can control the hydrasynth

[@matthewstein1110]

I just realized you have the same VSM shirt as me!!

[@JorbLovesGear]

ye haw

[@-l5905]

Do you know if it's okay to use RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES? I can't find any information on their website. Thank you for the great vids Brother.

[@ColibriRafael]

Can't wait to receive mine !

[@smokinjoe45]

"Most of the time" when I watch a video for this synth, they're always playing these big, gorgeous, sweeping pads but I wonder what do you think of this unit for leads?

[@JorbLovesGear]

it does great

[@ThePCxbox]

Jorb you should do an update with the new 2.0 update, Ive always been a hydra hater but I had the chance to try a used one in guitar center and I ended up taking it home the next day because it blew my mind and I gotta say Im sorry for the criticism asm, not only does it compare to strong VSTs like serum, it also has a giant collection of really amazing sounding filters and modulation options (in the 2.0 update you can now do "voice mod" which allows you do modulate the fine pitch of each voice) As for character I'd say it has this very subtle sound that makes it almost "honky" and you can see this character a lot in earlier hydra demos (which is why I really hated it at first)

[@JorbLovesGear]

Hydrasynth was a loaner, sorry. Sounds rad though

[@DaraM73]

How far away from, or close to, is the ASM Hydrasynth to the Modal Cobalt?

[@JorbLovesGear]

Well, cobalt is expanded virtual analog, so not really same goals, but Argon 8 is wave tables, and some of this will apply to cobalt too. In that they're digital hardware with wavetables / wave scanned oscillators that then go through a relatively standard subtractive architecture; argon and hydras are similar. But to generalize, and without having played an argon in a while, it feels more focused. I'll need to double check, but I believe the argon wavetables are actually morphed waves, instead of the hydra just crossfading between sequential single cycles. Cobalt and argon win the price battle, unless we're talking explorer, then the competition is with the module versions. Tough race, its hard to say "just try em!" but that's probably the best way to find a good fit.

[@HOLLASOUNDS]

I can make any sound I want with software sythersizors however I am getting physical sythersizors because I just want to play around with real ones, I dont need them but I want them.

[@JorbLovesGear]

yeah, we love gear, thats the great motivator. lol

[@RedFishBlueFish]

Jorb, question re: your experience so far with this synth. I played with this on the showroom floor and it seemed feature-packed. I also did notice that some of the sounds were quite bright and tinny. A few were ear-piercing. Have you found that using a low-pass filter on this synth is regularly necessary to shave off some of the super bright high end? Thanks in advance from a fellow gear addict (just received an Oberheim OB-X8!)

[@JorbLovesGear]

I do not think it's inherently bright or anything, just had the capacity for digital timbres. It's own filters sound great if you need to tame it

[@Pamberjack_]

Jorb! The jam that starts at 00:22 sounds amazing. Any way we could hear more? 🙏🤔🔥

[@JorbLovesGear]

What you hear is about all there is! Maybe I'll put a cut up 59 seconds on instagram...

[@Pamberjack_]

@@JorbLovesGear NICE!

[@simonmcg23]

My Hydrasynth pairs with my Hologram Microcosm like peaches and cream. Hours of immersive fun

[@that_Ranjit]

Hey! Not sure if you've answered this already, but if you've spent any time with the Arturia Minifreak, what sort of comparisons would you make between the two? Thanks!

[@Tiger.Arcade]

I’ve watched video after video trying to convince myself to love this and get one. I think it’s a fantastic and complex synth BUT like you said that no one else has mentioned, there’s nothing really special about the sound. It sounds great ngl but there’s no unique flavor profile to its sound. Sequencer is also a let down. This sort of solidified for me what I’ve been trying to ignore this whole time. The sound. The rest is extremely impressive especially given the price. It’s great for some, just not for me and someone who already has synths, it doesn’t add any unique taste in sound to my arsenal.

[@BobbyGeneric145]

Jorb, if you were making synthwave would you use a hydrasynth explorer as a good option?

[@JorbLovesGear]

absolutely, even some of the presets are enough sauce

[@mastercylinder1939]

Wow, a Hydrasynth to rule them all.

[@AlekseiDroganov]

If possible, show me on a camera close up, how is the place with cables organized, how are they hanging and on what? Thanks

[@JorbLovesGear]

just stereo out into a mixer for this one!

[@shaboogen]

Great review, I'm left with two questions. 1) After you send it back, are you going to buy one of your own? 2) Given that it doesn't really have a sound of its own and that the complexity of the synth is really part of the selling point, why (apart from the panel) would you buy one over using something like Serum / Vital / Rapid etc?

[@JorbLovesGear]

These are great questions. 1) Not immediately, its in my best interest to keep things moving to keep demonstrating. But I would consider a strong used deal on an explorer or a deluxe. 2) Hardware offers a different experience, easier to bring on stage, I only really use hardware. As far as sounds though, you could make it happen with some VST's!

[@shaboogen]

@@JorbLovesGear Cheers for the answers. I ended up buying one on a whim anyway because they're cheap and I think digital synths are interesting (I also have a Cobalt 8X). Get some referral links for other countries so international viewers can contribute. Looking forward to more stuff.

[@scottk3292]

I heard the patches which sound like a CS-80, particularly like the opening synth line in the classic Bladerunner theme, and I was sold. I bought the full version, and may look into the Deluxe version. The aftertouch allows sounds to become outright unruly (in a really good way). I've never heard another synth produce tones so bright and white-hot when needed. Among other features, I see it as a CS-80 killer.

[@AuntAlnico4]

Dude, this synth can cover so many systems from the past 50 years, it's crazy !

[@godot5082]

I miss mostly a good 64 or 100step sequencer in it. Any advice for a budget sequencer I'm waiting for the release of the retrokit 08 but it doesn't come out. Thanks a lot

[@JorbLovesGear]

RK08 is probably your best bet, for being so simple. Something like a simple groovebox might work, circuit etc.

[@christdolphin69]

imagine if asm added like a pro-3 sequencer. or even more incredible, if elektron made a digitone/a4 with the hydra engine inside

[@JorbLovesGear]

bruh damn, thats a dream

[@christdolphin69]

@@JorbLovesGear haha not very realistic, but a dream i have often. my life would be 1,000 times better if every polysynth was wrapped in something like the digitone/a4 architecture/multi-track sequencer

[@SuchaDoofus]

@@JorbLovesGear I wonder if Martin Luther King had any synth-based wishes. It would have been good to hear that speech.

[@jeffwilliamson1426]

JORB.....AN AMAZING VIDEO.........THANKS !!!

[@JorbLovesGear]

THANK YOU

[@nigelrogers8690]

Great review, I love my Ultranova and Blofeld, neither of them have an easy interface so I'm really interested in the Hydrasynth. How different is it from the original Hydrasynth? They seem to be selling used at a great price. Love your work 👏🏾

[@JorbLovesGear]

Identical sounds, total patch compatibility. I talk a bunch about what you lose in interface elements, but really the big thing is the form factor, go with whichever you can afford / fits.

[@HOLLASOUNDS]

I have the MiniNova and trying to plug a midi keyboard into it as full keys would be better. I dont have any midi cables.

[@9877joseph]

Until the Poly Aftertouch is felt and heard on the bigger Hydrasynths, you have no idea how emotional the expeirience is. I cant imagine that the aftertouch of the smaller one ever reaching its true potential.

[@JornLavoll]

beautiful synth!

[@JorbLovesGear]

It really is

[@mtotheatothedoubled]

Been saving up for that thing. One day!

[@JorbLovesGear]

Explorer makes it easier!

[@SmallWorldBigThings]

I've been looking for a Hydrasynth Explorer - to buy in a good price (second hand market of course).... but finally I bought Waldorf Blofeld and I am supper happy because of my choice. Maybe one day I will buy one of the synths from Hydra line.. but as for now I dont feel that need it. If you can find Blofeld in a reasonable price and you have good MIDI keybord with aftertouch - then buy Blofeld (you weill not regreat it).

[@JorbLovesGear]

blofeld has been sort of a "maybe some day" for awhile, still would snag one at a good price

[@LaymensLament]

Please rank every synth you own by features per dollar thanks 👍

[@JorbLovesGear]

Lol, writing the outline would kill me

[@SuchaDoofus]

​@@JorbLovesGear I cant imagine a better use of one's time than ranking synths by feature per dollar....Also number of knobs per square inch.

[@thirfytash7286]

I love the hydrasynth, but as far as features on a perfect modern digital synth, my vote would go to the korg modwave instead.

[@jurikonradi8941]

This synth is made for TECHNO. Mid-frequency industrial/synthetic/hypnotic sounds. Something never heard before, something that do not exist in real world, not similar to any existing musical instrument or known analog synth. By "industrial" I don't mean "scary" or "horror". Industrial can be sweet and pleasant. Just new and unheard. Unfortunately big portion of presets is about simulating famous analog synths or pianos, screaming: "Look, I can be Moog, I can be SH101, or whatever" But no. Just play with Wavetables, FM, compressor (with tempo side-chain!), etc., etc. Presets made by RA are pure gold - great starting point.

[@johnsmith-nd9yo]

I have been considering this synth for a while and was about to purchase it today. I stopped myself as I am worried about excessive menu diving. I purchased a Korg Wavestate last year and that has been terrible for menu diving and as a result it isn't used much. I hoped this Hydrasynth would be easier to use. I purchased another analog instead. Easy to use and no menus. If anyone can recommend a digital synth with little amount of menu dive I would be most grateful.

[@lokologico]

how does this compare to the microfreak? both use wavetable so I'm curious... I cant seem to find a comparison between the two.

[@JorbLovesGear]

Pretty different, microfreak has a few algorithms that work like wave tables, and like all of the algorithms there isn't much tweaking to do in regards to the oscillators themselves. Hydrasynth is way more tweakable, more voices, built in effects, true polyphonic, etc.

[@SuchaDoofus]

The microfreak is undoubtedly very cool. But Hydrasynth is way more powerful. Different goals....

[@treetopjones737]

MF has a sequencer, but other than that, HS blows it out of the water. MF would be a good cheap one for a beginner, though it does not have real keys and is only 4 "voices."

[@AlekseiDroganov]

Hey Jorb! Hello from Tallinn 🇪🇪 Why is the difference in the sound of hydrasynth explorer and deluxe deceptively felt, although the manufacturer says 100 percent about the same engine. Thank you

[@shaboogen]

The Deluxe has double the voices.

[@JorbLovesGear]

Yup! Same engine, but doubled up on the deluxe. So twice the voices, or splits and layers.

[@AlekseiDroganov]

@@JorbLovesGear thank you

[@odiroot]

Yes! I waited for this video.

[@JorbLovesGear]

Well? Was it worth it?

[@odiroot]

@@JorbLovesGear Yes. So much good energy! Though I probably wouldn't go for Hydrasynth myself now. Too much gear already ;)

[@adamcrow1060]

I think focusing on price doesn’t mean anything. I love the hydra synth and I love the super 6 and the jd-08. All recent purchases but must say they all are amazing in different ways.

[@chicken_flavoured_bacon3230]

yeah man by all means, if you have the time, make another video or 2 on the hydrasynth.. ever since it came out, to me anyway it just seems like such a power house of sound design, just a fun synth to play with,

[@smoak2024]

To me, the lack of "a sound", as you put it, is the beauty of digital, that so many other manufacturers seem to miss the mark with. VA synths in this price bracket either sound lifeless (Roland GAIA?) or very characteristic (Argon8)... Having a synthesizer that makes a wide range of very usable tones, both imitative of analog classics (a la filter models) or unabashedly digital is the "realization of the digital dream." Also- hardware inspiration wise, IMO above everything else the Hydrasynth reminds me of a CS80... touch strip and emphasis on aftertouch

[@smoak2024]

Great vid btw, subbing!

[@JorbLovesGear]

Cheers thank you! Oh yeah, the CS80 inspiration in there, especially now with the deluxe, 2 layers and all.

[@LaymensLament]

Okay what I didn't quite get out of the video, isn't the hydra nonetheless also a decent option, even if you don't want to create complex sounds? Because it's a powerful 8 poly for 600 bucks. Or those other groups you mentioned what would you recommend to them? Anyway, I think it's crazy what you get for your money in 2022, you can buy an explorer and a used deepmind 12d for about 1000€, add maybe a used circuit for 200 (or any sequencer / drum thing) and you're basically good for a long time starting out (going software is even easier but still!).

[@JorbLovesGear]

Good point, I was sort of fixated on the way it feels to use the engine at that point. Distilling it just to that, $ / feature tough to argue, but choosing an instrument is more than that. I think you could learn a lot more, and get something that's more accessible on other gear around 600$, albeit probably with fewer voices. Minilogues, etc

[@LaymensLament]

@@JorbLovesGear yes, i do think they have a killer market position. i would probably recommend it to anyone who starts out with hardware and wants a digital poly. like i would recommend the deepmind to anyone who starts out and wants an analog poly. I think with a couple of preset purchases you can use this device also for parameter adjustments and rompling. These are the only alternative keyboards I could come up with: JDXI, Argon/Cobalt8 and Blofeld.

[@SuchaDoofus]

"Anyway, I think it's crazy what you get for your money in 2022"....I kind of agree but does anyone remember when many digital synths used to be 16 part multitimbral? Whatever happened to that? I had an Emu Morpheus with 16 channels I could write entire tracks on, and was less than 800 euros. Now we are supposed to be happy with a single channel 8 voice digital synth? In 2022? Progress? Pff..Profiteering more like. Im still waiting for flying cars and robot housemaids, but I suppose THATs too much to hope for..... (ok rant over)

[@Asmuk]

Have you copyrighted the "Features per dolar" thing??

[@JorbLovesGear]

😭On the to do list

[@watchaddicts1213]

Wait a sec...I just caught the ASM Relationship part (Nymphes V2.0 video). So, you sent the Explorer back to ASM, got that. Are you going to buy one for yourself OR you so far into NymphesLand that the Explorer just doesn't cut it in the VA Synth Dept?

[@JorbLovesGear]

They're pretty different things, don't really consider them replacing each other. Plus Nymphes is actual analog, not VA. And I only had the explorer as a review loaner, I would keep using it if I still had it.

[@watchaddicts1213]

@@JorbLovesGear Yeah, that's my point really: Explorer seems magical in the category, Sophisto-Magic (plus the Poly Aftertouch), but Nymphes (Shoebridge plugins added for full control/visibility) has that hard-to-describe ethereal-fizzy-organic thing that perhaps only [well done] Analog can have. Were one happy enough with the quality of the Analog in Minilogue XD, then possibly XD may be the most versatile of the bunch, being able to combine real analog with the game changing USER DIGI OSC.. Still, Nymphes is awfully special! I'm trying to add ONE, best choice true analog piece. That said, I became distracted by Explorer. I'm afraid, as a VA, it will leave me longing for the FIZZY of analog. The simple answer is: buy one of each, I know.

[@ensignofindustry1033]

Been considering this synth, though was told the Take 5 is a little easier to navigate for a novice synther. Thoughts? 😌

[@JorbLovesGear]

I think the hydrasynth signal flow navigation buttons really make things easy, and visually is helpful in connecting the sections. More of my hydrasynth beginner critiques are how deep the sections are, makes it more possible to get a bit lost

[@l1fef0rm]

Still want a the original desktop with the ribbon slider. Can't understand why its not a thing. I love my desktop model but ache for the ribbon slider.

[@JorbLovesGear]

I feel that. Maybe you just need the deluxe! lol

[@nathanjames4242]

If you had to choose between the hydrasynth and the MiniFreak based on the amount of inspiration you have with each, which one do you enjoy more? Both are about $600 the same price and size.

[@JorbLovesGear]

I havent tried the minifreak. I found myself too worried about what each oscillator mode was doing on the microfreak to ever end up exploring deeply, but thats probably just me. If you like long, careful programming, hydrasynth.

[@MosEisleySpacePort1138]

Love your videos, Jorb. Curious to get your opinion: could a Jupiter Xm be a good companion to the Explorer?

[@JorbLovesGear]

Always depends on the user, and certainly they can work well together, but 2 "do-it-all" digital synths cover a lot of the same ground. Sure the Xm has the vintage modelling explicitly, but there's a lot of shared ground.

[@MosEisleySpacePort1138]

@@JorbLovesGear Thanks so much for your response, Jorb. I think you’re right that there’s a lot of overlap. Is there one you like over the other? Obviously, it’s a personal preference. I get the feeling it might be the Explorer. Btw, totally agree with you about the lack of a sequencer. Seems like a missed opportunity.

[@jamesdelrogers542]

Polyphonic aftertouch is a great excuse to pick up an older and ensoniq keyboard I have an SQ80 and it does it I think some of the mirages do too There were several different versions of the Mirage The new korg wavestate response to a polyphonic after touch A lot of these new affordable boxes Are being programmed to do it too even if the keyboard it comes with won't You can get into some really insane expression doing doing pad chords with these Whether ex fighting other oscillators into it are just modulating it with low frequency oscillators thanks get really deep quick

[@JorbLovesGear]

I have a broken esq1, really struggling to get the chip i need to finish that repair though. Exciting that manufacturers are getting on board with it!

[@mourningflowers]

I’m actually a big fan of this synth 😮‍💨😮‍💨

[@JorbLovesGear]

same as hell

[@danielpirone8028]

Truly a modern classic. It is such a great synth. And love the dedication to the poly Aftertouch!!!!!

[@JorbLovesGear]

Good point, they do seem to consider that essential to the engine.

[@TheProGamers105]

@@JorbLovesGear pool

[@user-iz8pg8zz1b]

Hi Jorb, big fan. Would you consider making a hydrasynth patch pack which approximates PPG wave (or other classic wavetable synths e.g. microwave) factory presets and classic sounds similarly to your Juno 106 / Ax / Polysix packs for Deepmind? A 4 Operator fm synth pack would also be cool. Keep up the good work!

[@mindwingstudios885]

Well done! What an amazing price point to get THE SAME engine as the Big Models. It sacrifices hardly anything! We are SO spoiled, soft and flabby that we fuss over not being able to see all 8: OH NO!! A few extra button presses!!! Gotta be some cream puff’s joint disorders from that! Who knows how many hand surgeries…not to mention years of psycho-therapy. It would be tough to pick OPSIX or ARGON or a dozen other priced-near synths out now. Arturia lost a lot by allowing Mr. Darcy to slip away. ADD a good VST sequencer and there ya go. Firmware updates will fill in what’s needed, probably. Poly aftertouch is really nice. Being a Sensel Morph owner, I will say, MPE is End of the World! So maybe MPE functionality will follow. Me? I’m a random, unknown person.

[@SuchaDoofus]

I was going to subcribe, until the MicroKorg comment. Just kidding of course, excellent job.

[@JorbLovesGear]

Lmao, cheers

[@watchaddicts1213]

Ok Mr. Synth-lover Man...I have a question, which is ideally suited to an answer from YOU. First, RE your Korg Minilogue review, I mentioned ''Can't wait for your Minilogue XD review;' to which you replied that you'd love tp review the XD. I'm looking to add ONE hardware synth and was settled on XD (after pausing to shed a tear or two over NOT having chosen the Dreadbox Nymphes). My home studio is ALL VST and is fairly vast. I wanted to add one Poly Analog hardware piece. My conflict is this: what I actually WANT to buy is Hydra Explorer. My feeling is that Digital is Digital; for instance, I chose Wavestate Native over Wavestate hardware and, in that purchase, I spent 1/3 the money to own Native and have a synth that has a greatly exploded view, in terms of GUI-as compared to its digital hardware analogy. I couldn’t resist, sorry. Anyhow, great value for money! Is there a question here? Yes, nearly there. Explorer's Feature Set/GUI sell's itself--pretty brilliant. My question, if you please,..could you comment on Explorer as a VA Synth? IN other words, the deserted island scenario (deserted but with state of the art electrical service), would you give up your Minilogue's Analog Voices and load Explorer into the boat or…would you have to bid farewell to the VA Explorer? I’m in search of a truth here…your estimation of it. Is there truth to the Magic of Analog-some visceral, etherial thing, sublime enough to mostly escape exact description, but something like this fizz or sizzle or Bite, damn near-one might say-the organic SMELL of real analog, which Explorer just can’t quite NAIL? Or…has the evolution of VA more or less nullified the noticeable difference (as the human ears hear (in a mix, as is often said) ? Thank you. Apologies for number of words. Perhaps before presuming that I'm housed in some institution, you might one day speak to Mike Conyers at Sweetwater. Ask Mike about Mark down in Arkansas.

[@jung45stone40]

Can it be connected to a bigger keyboard, such as a midi keyboard? Thanks

[@JorbLovesGear]

It can!

[@jung45stone40]

@@JorbLovesGear Thank you

[@johnsterthemonster9181]

What is on your fingers that your reface cp is yellow? Lol. Just kidding man I really like your videos. Keep it up.

[@JorbLovesGear]

MUSTARD Jk, its from old masking tape that I had on there to mark the hold-functions for midi channels etc.

[@andres.n.1706]

🙏 thank you