Bad Gear - M-Audio Venom - Biggest Software Dongle Of All Time???

[@AudioPilz]

Full Tracks, Extended Jams, Sample Packs: www.patreon.com/audiopilz Support the channel regardless of what your G.A.S. tells you to buy: EU: www.thomann.de/de/index.html?offid=1&affid=3105 US: link.perfectcircuit.com/t/v1/8-12626-261103-9759

[@prophei]

I was at M-Audio when we did this thing. The project was led by a good friend and synth guru Taiho Yamada, who had to work under enormously poor conditions to even get to what we released. He is a hero. The synth nerds in the company had big ideas for where things could lead, but the internal politics at the company at that time pretty much made sure nothing good could ever happen. I did some of the sounds, most of which were cooler before all the internal gains were toned down before release. This thing sounds best when everything is at 100, driving everything to oblivion. So many wild stories about how this thing came to be. A mix of lost opportunities when looking at the full story. This thing was supposed to be so much more! I think I have a bluish grey one around, which was the much cooler original design... and this purple/pinkish version that I had to grab cause it was so out there. Good times :)

[@3D6Space]

I estimate 10%+ of the global population are sadists. They (like your internal politics experience) ruin everything. Sadists are the 1's that go slow in the fast land, park their shopping cart sideways in the middle of an isle, train their dogs to shart in your yard, park their cars next to your driver's side door so you can't open it, talk on the phone for a minute at the green light before they go, fail to use turn signals, let their kids destroy stuff without any effort to discipline them... ok... maybe closer to 60%, eh...

[@prophei]

@@3D6Space That may very well be true!

[@AudioPilz]

Nice!!! Great to have you around!!!

[@prophei]

@@AudioPilz Happy to be around!

[@raffitchakmakjian]

all the internal gains were toned down before release

[@timstich1052]

All synths suffer from the dated quality of their presets. Inside, this is a three oscillator virtual analog synth with a lot of signal routing options, a nice filter, and some built in effects. You could expect to make it sound like just about any other synth like it: Alesis Ion, Akai Miniac, Novation Supernova, etc. But everyone hears those weird presets and say, oh, that's all it can do! Ha ha. This is why it's very important who you hire to do your patch design.

[@AudioPilz]

Absolutely! But it was all Brostep and Progressive House back then - the "future" 😅

[@micindir4213]

Presets are at very least 50% value of any given gear. At the session yu want to grab a gear fast and pump stuff you know it can do reliably. If you have no money and infinite time - sure! If not I would be hesitant. The integrated audio interface might make it ok keys for live performance in dive bars etc. For example as a part of mainstage setup. And if it goes wrong you have at least some sounds to get by

[@2112jonr]

@@micindir4213 Nah, that just says you've not got a clue about how to use a synth. Buy a Bontempi organ if that's your level of ability.

[@micindir4213]

@@2112jonr das rite kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z4LHaayKmLF1e5o

[@gladtobeangry]

@@micindir4213 I can see what you're saying, but most gear just doesn't have any decent presets, so you are limiting yourself severely if you're relying on presets. On most of the gear I own, my interpretation is that the presets are there to give the demo guy something to impress you with in the shop so you'll buy one. Mostly, they sound pretty ok on their own, but they're completely useless in a mix. Of course what AudioPilz says is true as well: those presets are often geared to trending genres of the moment, which within the span of a couple of years can make them sound dated and useless as well. Bottom line is: A synthesizer is a tool to design sounds, which is a creative endeavour. I'd compare the difference between designing your own sounds or using presets, to the difference between writing a piece of music or picking a track on spotify. In the first instance you're being creative, in the second instance, you're being a consumer.

[@jamesedinger4956]

I'm always amazed by how much your excellent demos make me want all the bad gear

[@ar_xiv]

you really don't want this

[@hamjohn8737]

@@ar_xiv I'm having a blast with mine......

[@permanentsound873]

I’m officially kind of obsessed with this channel and content. Everything you do is done so well. I’m digging around, going to all your older videos and loving it! Keep up the great work man! I LOVE your bad gear reviews.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much. Stick around!

[@mimikova390]

agree, he is entertaining, talented, and informative.

[@MarshalArnold]

YES!!! Even a cameo from Glenn of Spectre Sound Studios lol Ah, this is my new favorite channel lol

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks. And: f*ck you, Glenn!

[@MarshalArnold]

@@AudioPilz 😂😂😂

[@crunchylicenseplates9008]

I don’t know why I haven’t seen this video already. I used to work there when the Venom was created, the designer is a very talented synth designer Taiho Yamada who also designed the Fusion for Alesis, and has designed many more software synths since then. The engineer was a former Quasimidi engineer who turned a piano chip into a synth by seriously modifying the firmware. The original logo was supposed to be big orange letters in the right corner and Avid mngmt didn’t like the name or the big lettering, they finally agreed to let us keep the name that but they made us make it small text. I still have one of the original prototypes. That product was seriously squeezing blood from a stone.

[@AudioPilz]

Yeah, AVID really messed this up. I would have loved to see more of that

[@prophei]

Crunchy License Plates? :) It was a fun time at M-Audio back then, if not a bit chaotic as Avid decided to smother everything they touched. So many good people though, and Taiho was always bringing in his cool analogs to make me jealous!

[@WildAnalog]

@@prophei I just picked up my second Venom. I always regretted selling my first one. As you used to work at M-audio during its development, you don't, by chance have the prototype software to use the Vyzex editor as a VST? I can't find the beta anywhere. The links are all bad now. In my estimation, the Venom is a phenomenon of sound design. One must look past the presets and delve into the editor. It's one of my favorite pieces of gear. Sadly, the second unit I purchased is in rough shape. I'd love to get a mint copy like my first and turn this one into a desktop module. This is a synth I hope to never be without. The software editor becoming obsolete makes me anxious.

[@prophei]

@@WildAnalog Hey there! Pretty wild to find such a huge fan! I agree with you that using the editor, there is a vastly different synth under the hood. The front panel was a mess of corporate compromises unfortunately. At least that's how I see it. I have no idea about the software at this point, but if anyone has it, Taiho (the designer of the synth) would have it. I'll ping him and get back to you here.

[@WildAnalog]

@@prophei Thank you! I would be so grateful. I started incorporating it into my album and sound design sessions in a big way. I'm trying to make the workflow as seamless as possible. I am starting an ambient music/sound design blog in a few months. I'm hoping to stir new interest in the Venom through a feature there and display what it can do under the hood. I also agree about the front panel. The Venom could have surpassed the best digital synths when it was released with the right front panel.

[@CaidicusProductions]

No joke, I clicked the like button before the video started, as I usually do, then when you started making a beat I impulsively went to click it again. In other words, your videos are just so likeable.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much

[@2112jonr]

Finally, a really god, honest review of the Venom. I listened to a lot of the nay sayer armchair snobs before deciding "fuck 'em, I like the sound of it, I'm going to buy one". Three months later and many KZbin videos, I got hold of a mint version for £100. Pros and Cons: Cons: Biggest is that whoever thought light grey against a white background was a good idea needs educating. Slight cons: The case is a bit plasticky, but physically robust and no worse than say a Korg M1 but at 1/10th the weight. No back doctor bills. Mild cons: The LCD isn't great, but sufficient to do the job, and I've seen both better and MUCH worse interfaces, ditto the keybed. Pros: The presets I like, but then I like industrial and classical music, not to mention goth rock. Go figure. Did I say like? No, sorry. LOVE. They're brilliant. Raw and brilliant. Bigger pros: The sounds you can easily squeeze from this are exceptional, like nothing else but in a good way Summary: It's an exceptionally versatile synth killed off by journos who haven't a clue what a filter does and only judge a synth by its AOR presets. Conclusion from an owner: If you can get one at a decent price, buy it, unless you're into Phil Collins. Which it can also do with aplomb. See, I knew there was something bad I could say about it...

[@AudioPilz]

I would have loved to see a successor to the Venom

[@Jason75913]

Yes, awesome sounding synth... - that destabilizes with external MIDI input, rendering vulnerable to crashing (I get around this with a restart, takes a couple of tries to get it stable) - garbage-tier post effects, you're better off using external effects, ignoring the onboard EQs - janky arpeggiator that can take MIDI files from a PC for new/different patterns - underpowered CPU, you get dropped notes if you use patches with a lot of modulation in Multis, or just use all 4 parts possible, though I do have one 4-part Multi that barely works right for a little jamming - some folks hate the keybed, I find it just passable - non-class-compliant USB 1.1 input with very low-quality audio, you're better off using a Quad-Capture or whatever for recording the Venom instead - I sure as hell wouldn't call it "robust" or any such synonym, better baby it well so it lasts, encoders are all flimsy, the plastic casing is thin if you look inside - needing a PC for full editing is stupid, and then the software editor is buggy - half of the 512 single presets and 256 multis are read-only like a Roland synthesizer, so awfully little user memory for a modern digital synth with plenty of sound design capability I haven't run into some of the numerous bugs that others have with the synth engine itself, I only use it in Single mode alongside other hardware. I love the sound as much as any other Venom fan, but almost everything else about it is messed up somehow or another, good grief. The white on light grey labeling is the least of the cons.

[@Sui778]

My biggest con for this is the keybed. It really sucks. But using it as a tone module with a controller that has a good keyboard rectifies the situation.

[@prophei]

The original color was much, much cooler. Suddenly, towards the end of development, Avid decided to smear their new style guide on the thing, and we ended up with the white. Really big bummer. I have the OG version here, and it would have definitely been the better paint job!

[@ShakaCthulu]

@@prophei Any pics online of the prototype ones? Love its sound, it’s very unique. Maybe one day Taiho can do an mk2 without Avid f**king everything up.

[@jscan]

2 important points you missed here apart from the present extreme affordability; - lightweight full-featured VSTi controller offering a USB audio interface! I use the venom along with an old netbook whose resources would definately be overloaded if it had to process the audio as well for numerous VST synths whose audio output is then the Venom - ASIO connection delivering very low latency, super portability, and lots of flexibility mixing with the internal on-board sounds.. which brings me to 2; - the factory sounds are no boner-inducers (who's are?), but despite the tiny user base, there are actually a fair number of user created patches out there that highlight what can be programmed here - making the venom a far more usable machine in and of itself. Indeed the original price combined with the (exclusively?) EDM targeted sounds probably preprogrammed failure here, but at current prices, this remains a hidden gem!

[@AudioPilz]

Yeah, had some fun with the interface and its preamp/FX section in the final song. The MIDI controller feature is cool but it's quite a bulky box for just 4 pots ;)

[@notmyrealname9059]

You're becoming the Todd in the Shadows of music gear. This is no small compliment. Long may you drum (machine)

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks!

[@johnsaunders6510]

Works very well with an iPad as an audio and midi interface.

[@AudioPilz]

Good to know

[@InFamousProductions]

Yo Pilz, I just had to watch this again, and it’s amazing how different your old vids are yet the same in this upside down universe. And I want to get one of these , that sounds is still killer.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much!!!

[@metocvideo]

I laughed out load at the Phil Collins reference, and it was pretty good too....

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!

[@michaelkolomatsky1310]

It also tends to freeze up when trying to swap out arpegiators or patches while the arp is latched. Audio and midi in and out at once through one midi cable crapped out on my computer of 5 years ago (haven't tried that today). But for the $150 new I paid 5 years ago it has some great sounds and features. the signature gritty, doom and gloom patches are great, but there are sweet clean sounds too. Tweaking the beats (arpeggiated drum patches) or other patches, with the mod or pitch wheels or "endless" knobs in real time (filters, lfos... ) is very expressive. Four simultaneous arp patterns (!), one for each part of a multipatch, is pretty cool for building rhythmic loops. this thing is very fun and very cheap.

[@AudioPilz]

I agree but I would prefer a keyboardless version

[@Jason75913]

the audio interface blows anyway, an external interface better captures its great sound, and MIDI input can destabilize the synth, requiring that you restart it and try again and hope it remains stable you can check stability as soon as you hook up external MIDI by switching patches and seeing how long it takes compared to normal: if it seems to be lagging noticeably compared to using the Venom alone, it is unstable and WILL crash with continued use, necessitating a reboot, and a single reboot and reconnect might not be enough

[@robertbaldwin4261]

I bought one for an 80’s band. It was pretty good for that, but we had to spend time making all the patches from scratch. The thing I hated the most is that the LPF sounds dirty when you start maxing out the capabilities of the synth engine. I still have it. You can do a lot with one of these.

[@AudioPilz]

I agree! Very powerful synth!

[@jenslempke7883]

Class compliant, working as a controller, audio/midiinterface with a Ipad. And - you can even stream sound through USB and get the VA synth in it straight into the mix. I don´t know of any other synth/combined audio interface that can do that except maybe one or two Virus synths.

[@AudioPilz]

The Novation Xio comes to mind... kzbin.info/www/bejne/amnEo4udg9FoqZY

[@nanomafia7]

One of the best show on yt. Keep going its great

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks! It means a lot to me

[@rejectedsynths]

The sound if the venom is a real testament of the time it was released, it has got all the WOBWOB any self respecting Skillrex impersonator could ask for. Was planning on doing a video on the venom as well, already got one sitting in a corner. For the price they go now (dirt cheap) it's a great synth 😁

[@AudioPilz]

So true. It screams 2010 like crazy ;)

[@sawtooth808]

@@AudioPilz There are people on KZbin (Cloudwalk music, hit up his channel) that have designed sounds for the M Audio Venom to be a bit more mellow.

[@carlosonthekeys]

best trashy synth ever, in despite of it's shortcomings. I love mine.

[@AudioPilz]

Agreed!

[@maxhult830]

3:37 Can you feel it "coming in the air tonight"? Nice touch, and nice review.

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks!

[@Scyber_Official]

Do a Bad Gear video on the Korg R3 - It's a more expensive version of the Venom and also enclosed in a cheap feeling plastic keyboard.

[@AudioPilz]

At least it's not as bulky

[@Jason75913]

those R3s are starting to die, MicroKorgXL has its synth engine anyway

[@rolandtitrentaquattro3109]

Guys, come know if is possible to control via midi paremeters that are not on the pannel? Like the stuff on the editor?

[@AudioPilz]

Never tried it but should work AFAIK

[@rolandtitrentaquattro3109]

@@AudioPilz wow, of that is possible i can use one of my midi controller to use the venom at 100%

[@Jason75913]

you need NRPNs for more editing, almost full editing, actually

[@MonsieurC64]

You could think it's a pile of crap at first, and it is compared to many synths, especially if you stick with the presets, but in fact it has some nice features. It can do some "warm" analog kind of sounds, thanks to it's filter. But you have to dig into the editor, and realise that it's not completely virtual analog. The oscillators are sample based, but with some randomisation parameters. The fact that it's ligthweight, 4 octaves, and very cheap on the second hand market makes it a nice little tool for gigging.

[@AudioPilz]

The filter is really nice indeed

[@Rompler_Rocco]

Yes, boss, production is complete on the Venom front panels.. although we weren't sure if you said "access to features" or "massive orange sticker"

[@AudioPilz]

Access to massive orange sticker features

[@alienteknology5390]

I'm actually impressed with some of these hardware oddities. You have to admit they are a lot of fun. So far I think my favorite is the Quasimidi Rave-o-lution.

[@AudioPilz]

Yeah, the Rave-o-lution is quite unparalleled in that respect;)

[@SterlingJergens]

I had one (have one? it might be in storage). bought it because I needed a midi controller and though hell, why not get a standalone synth for the same price as a controller? The software editor thing was broken as hell and it was just a nightmare to use, and they just dropped support for it.

[@AudioPilz]

I've read about some 3rd party iPad app in a dedicated Venom FB group. Might be helpful

[@JTHelectronics]

I worked at Guitar Center back when this was released; like a lot of the gear you seem to feature on here, most of the sales I witnessed were guys with tax refunds burning a hole in their pocket that spent just enough time with units like the venom in the in-store display to become interested but not enough time or research to know its true limitations. The Alesis QS6.2 was similar IMO, had some cool sounds but like you said, dated and not necessarily convenient to use

[@AudioPilz]

Yey, Quadrasynth!!!

[@Etienne.6329]

Why am I not surprised this guy has 3 hands… this explains a lot. Also, can you make the middle jam into a full song. I haven’t watched the end yet cause I kept on replaying it.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much!

[@prophet-2112]

I quite liked the sound of the venom. The design and build quality were just fine. The engine is good. But having to go to a computer for so many things is just a real bummer. All they would have had to do was add a few more knobs. So close yet so far.

[@AudioPilz]

Really enjoyed that one too!

[@janekalbinsky]

Thank you so much for posting this. I own one - bought it second hand, thinking I would do awesome stuff with it and then never really using it because of reasons and VSTs to fool around with on the PC. Maybe it's time to dig it out from under the bed and have a second look!

[@AudioPilz]

Yeah, dig it out. Lotsa fun!

[@JoshuaKennedy321]

This makes me think of the Alesis Micron (which I think Alesis sold to Akai who repackaged it as the Miniac?) I still have one .. it's an embarrassing story. I wanted an Ion but couldn't afford one at the time. Micron came out, with the same synth engine in a smaller package with a smaller price tag, and I immediately snapped it up. It sounds great but OMG the controls are horrible. Also the chassis gets really hot behind the LCD screen during operation. Editing is a nightmare so I wound up just using presets (of which there are a lot and many of them are quite useful). The frustration was ultimately too much so I sold my Micron .. then I regretted selling it and bought another .. and to this day I can't decide if that was a mistake. I rarely play it, but I can't force myself to get rid of it.

[@AudioPilz]

That's usually the gear you keep for the rest of your life ;)

[@Michael_Smith-Red_No.5]

I will die with my Micron by my side. Even now, the filter models startle me in how good they sound. With that said, I'm searching for an Ion, and it's a tough search.

[@markbonn1973]

​@@Michael_Smith-Red_No.5 J'ai un Alesis Ion depuis environ 10 ans acheter lors de la réedition des dernières unités à très bon marché,je ne m'en séparerais jamais (tout comme mon supernova rack) tellement il est merveilleux niveau éditions et possibilités très proche du AN1X avec sa matrice de modulation,bonne recherche car le micron ou le miniak ne peuvent être que frustrant en utilisations et recherches sonores,ah oui j'oubliais j'ai également un Venom et on est pas du tout dans les même conceptions de synthé V-A je dirais plutôt que les deux se complètent et que si l'on pousse le Venom dans l'édition on peut aller très loin également. I have an Alesis Ion for about 10 years buy during the reissue of the last units very cheaply, I would never part with it (just like my supernova rack) so it is wonderful level editions and possibilities very close to the AN1X with its modulation matrix, good research because the micron or the miniak can only be frustrating in uses and sound research, oh yes I forgot I also have a Venom and we are not at all in the same conceptions of VA synth I would say rather that the two complement each other and that if we push the Venom in the edition we can go very far as well.

[@kj4prz]

A friend had this, and we absolutely loved the sound, but to tweak it properly, we defo needed a pc, and that made the instrument working like a rompler practically (despite it being a VA). Such a shame, if M-Audio designed a bit more useable controller set, it could have been an all-time classic.

[@AudioPilz]

I agree. Let's blame it on Avid ;)

[@kj4prz]

@@AudioPilz Don't even get me started on what an ugly shitfest of a clunky hell ProTools is :P

[@prophei]

@@kj4prz Naw, Pro Tools is incredible. Completely disagree.

[@prophei]

@@AudioPilz That is literally true, as the panel was originally supposed to be far more knob filled. Avid was responsible for that and the final paint job!

[@xisotopex]

I love what you have done to the place.

[@AudioPilz]

Home sweet home

[@func8647]

just found these bad gear vids... great job duder

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks!

[@callactm14]

i got one, you can do stuff with the limited parameters and without the software, if you get to know your machine you would be surprise of what you can do with it without using the software. with the software you can generate a lot of patches.

[@AudioPilz]

The software works surprisingly well (if you have a computer to run it)

[@l1fef0rm]

I really like the look of that specific Venom.

[@AudioPilz]

Yeah, totally stands out;)

[@rars0n]

OMG... Glenn Fricker clip. I love you.

[@AudioPilz]

FU, Glenn!

[@jackx4767]

I had this thing. I pawned it off when I couldn't get any form of customer support when the software refused to connect with the synth. A month after pawning off my venom Avid announced that M-Audio would no longer exist. That explains why I couldn't get any customer support.

[@AudioPilz]

Let's blame Avid!

[@jackx4767]

I called Avid for support and they routed me to M-Audio. M-Audio said that since it was a hardware issue I needed to speak with Avid customer support. Avid said that since the issue is obviously somewhere within the software I need to speak with M-Audio. I kept getting the perpetual run around. At this point I became fed up and called the store that I bought the synth from. I had an extended warranty with them. They told me to basically take it back and sell it as a used device as other customers were also having issues with it. The store also gave me a discount on an Arturia interface to replace the Venom. The only issue I had with Arturia's interface is a few of the rubber knobs came off. I called customer support to figure out how to fix it. They mailed me replacements free of charge.

[@Gainn]

I think this is the one piece of gear I sold that I really regret getting rid of.

[@AudioPilz]

I regret giving it back to the owner ;)

[@sebioloieri]

Try the korg electribe 2, was my first synth and sometimes I love it and sometimes I hate it

[@AudioPilz]

That one came up quite often. Thanks!

[@3D6Space]

I'm in and have 1 on order. This purchase, like the MC-09, is all your fault. Thank you for that! lol Luckily I still have have a functioning Windows 7 machine for the required software.

[@AudioPilz]

I feel guilty;)

[@matthewgaines10]

Nice tune at approx 2:15. You got something out of it. Nice piece of abandonware. Good segment once again.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@NALTOdeluxe]

God that funky tune is driving me nuts. I want one of these.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@philm1537]

The venom was so close to being a ground breaking synth that would still be used today in top 40 productions and beyond. Had that grittiness but you could honestly make any sound. Amazing filter, audio interface built in, unlimited sound design, loads of other features BUT the one thing that prevented its greatness was no VST!! I remember waiting years for them to release vst support checking forums and what not but unfortunately m audio abandoned ship. Sound designing on the synth was very limited and tedious if I remember correctly but inside the standalone program it was endless. All we needed was the ability to use it in our DAW. Oh well I still have hope that one day I’ll be able to dust off my good ole venom and experience VST support. If it was more “in the box” friendly this synth would be worth thousands

[@AudioPilz]

👍

[@dannymolns3573]

There are editors now for this thing. 3rd party, but they do exist finally

[@jerryweber1768]

@@dannymolns3573 There are, Like what?

[@pirateradioFPV]

I just had one shipped to me, so had to come and watch this again. I don’t want peace, I want problems, always 👀😂

[@ΟρσιαΑθανασιου]

01:21 the connectivity was awesome

[@systemfan8]

Bought one new in 2012, was tempted by its affordable price. But it kept freezing all the time and I sold it with no regret. Never used the bundled software:) Then bought Roland JP-8080 and was pretty much happy with it (then sold it as well which I now regret a little)

[@jalenscott1894]

Would someone share how to update this things firmware? I've been scouring the web and apparently what I downloaded from m- audio wasn't it

[@AudioPilz]

Getting the software of this one to work has become quite a challenge

[@jalenscott1894]

@@AudioPilz Indeed it has, been using it as a midi controller and audio interface/external effects processor primarily. The preloaded sounds aren't terrible, made a couple beats with them but they get old fast. I would love to be able to actually create my own sounds and presets

[@jalenscott1894]

Might try finding a computer with an older os

[@HailSagan_]

How dare you, sir! The M-Audio Venom is a hidden gem! You aren't wrong though :)

[@AudioPilz]

It is! Still...;)

[@robalbalos]

Oh I forgot to mention... great video by the way! I liked and subscribed

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much!

[@deydododontdedoh.5672]

Venom... it's a dirrrrrrty (sounding) beast! Love it ❤️

[@AudioPilz]

True that!

[@SisterRose]

Was seriously thinking of getting this as was impressed by the sounds, some of the features and there was one going cheap. I feel like it would have been much better suited though to a smaller size format for starters. I ended up going with the Microfreak and keeping my MicroKorg XL - may replace the XL at some point, but as is I don't regret it.

[@AudioPilz]

It's a good one to have around

[@heathbrady8510]

That first jam is fucking awesome.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@greyblooz]

It’s a versatile tool with some decent sounds (until it suddenly crashes or the knobs stop working properly...)

[@AudioPilz]

...and a truly antique piece of software totally essential for its use

[@sinistar99]

2:17 is my new favorite song

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks!

[@activistarts7722]

death grips vibes

[@piercemcintyre1327]

Could you do a video about the Novation Mininova?

[@AudioPilz]

There's gonna be some Novation content in the near future

[@daver2002]

Couple of things..... do you have a portal into my room ? if your next video is the Korg Karma I'm never watching youtube ever again..........you have all my gear !! completely agree its basically a software dongle, but i still love it.

[@AudioPilz]

My portal is currently broken, so it's pure coincidence;)

[@shoseinen]

Great videoo, this synth seems nice

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks!

[@TheNatriumOxide]

Can you make a video about JP-8000? Is it really only a trance maschine?

[@AudioPilz]

Great idea! Thanks!

[@garygood369]

Love your videos man!

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks a ton!

[@orbitfold]

M'audio *tips fedora

[@AudioPilz]

😂😂😂

[@my4trackmachine]

Honestly, it is the build quality that caused me to avoid this synth. The digital sounds were actually decent but my god.... it felt like the entire thing was about to fall apart with all of those cheap plastics. It doesn't help that every unit I have tried had unresponsive or broken off knobs.

[@AudioPilz]

Surprisingly, the unit in the video went through some heavy touring schedule and still works like a charm (looks like WW3, tho;)

[@voltijuice8576]

I'll probably get a broken one on the cheap and re-case it as a module.

[@FLUFFYCAT_PNW]

Major slaps on the present showcase

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@MathHammer]

Not even close to the largest software dongle. I have used large format commercial Summa printer-cutters that function as the dongle for their Adobe Illustrator plug-in.

[@AudioPilz]

Not an expert on non-music related dongles. Obviously better for me😅

[@jriceblue]

Alas, YT does not allow one to "like" a video that one has already "liked," even if they are watching it again several years later and really didn't remember it at all.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@MajoraWaffle]

love the mike and rich shoutout; fucking great record

[@AudioPilz]

Masterpiece!!!

[@giuseppenapoli1624]

Please try one of the ZOOM Arq Rings

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks! Already got it on my shopping list

[@stefan1024]

+1

[@abaddonanon7573]

I used to want to paint mine purple. Used. It is perfect as it is.

[@AudioPilz]

Purple would be nice!

[@electro808kat]

The Right Mod-wheel will let U mix the beats from 808 to 909, or set it to half way for a mixture of both kits.

[@AudioPilz]

👍👍👍

[@robalbalos]

I actually own this piece of kit. You definitely have to be practically be a software engineer to get into this thing. I do love that it's super light and easy to move around. With some intense programming you can get some pretty beefy sounds.....Just don't forget to save them. Please if you can.... It might be hard because they're so heavy... Try the ensoniq Mr 61 or 76... I bet you hate it.

[@AudioPilz]

It's a love/hate (or more like a WTF;) relationship;) I will take a look at the Ensoniqs...

[@hillie47]

It was my first synth. I'm not sure whether that was a good choice or not. I barely play synths/keys anymore, so it might explain a thing or two. :)

[@AudioPilz]

It has a peculiar sound but not a bad starting point

[@ItsJustElenore]

I've found one in the trash, broken. Most keys weren't working but I've repaired it. I wish I'd have seen this video before. I thought it was a bit over my head, so I sold it. :(

[@AudioPilz]

It's a very characterful synth. What a pity there's no support anymore

[@cheapmusicgear]

I appreciate the insight. Please tell me some options you would recommend that I could score used for the $100-200 range. I ideally would get something from the Yamaha reface series, but I don’t wanna spend that much. I thought these seemed pretty decent.

[@AudioPilz]

It depends on what you're looking for. If keybed quality is not important, one of the smaller digital Novations (Xiosynth,...) comes to mind. You should be able to get a Microkorg for little above 200 bucks, btw😏

[@michaels5166]

Exactly Tim..if you rely on presets,you will end up buying 50 synths a year,and still not getting satisfied with the 'latest'.If I see a Venom i will get it,screw them presets,and dig in,instead.Tim,many people do the same with samplers,ripping records/CDs,and making beats,hardly even creating their own kits,sounds,and workflow from scratch.I have an analog and one digital synth,and when I need a sound,i will make it most of the time,tweak what's there,and 10%of the time use a drum hit or preset pad.Plus,once you run a Venom into a computer,you can go wild.You can match it with Reaktor,Pure Data,CSound,Buzz,and the list goes on,and never sound the same.People lie to themselves and convince themselves they 'need' a new piece of gear,when they really only tap maybe 25% of what i can really do...

[@AudioPilz]

'Need' is such a heavy word ;)

[@michaels5166]

@@AudioPilz yet it's applicable..You can take half of what you have,and usually make great music.You do not nEED much.Companies market that sense of need,because if most stopped to think,and delve deeply into what they already have,the new gear would sell way less...

[@odstProductionsLV]

Is the Vyzex editing software available to download anywhere anymore? I’m seriously tempted to get one but don’t want to be left without the option to make my own sounds

[@AudioPilz]

Took me some time to find it and it's very dated. There seems to be a 3rd party iPad app. Check out the Venom FB groups

[@odstProductionsLV]

AudioPilz Thank you! And please keep doing these awesome videos

[@AudioPilz]

@@odstProductionsLV thanks!

[@jakobole]

"Commando Elephant Oida" :)

[@AudioPilz]

I worked on three albums with them

[@DJDigitalJosh]

Of course another piece I owned. My Computer was also so bad at the time the software didn't work the way it was supposed to. 😆 I really love buying & trying electronic instruments. The shortest kept machines were a cigarette drenched Roland mv-8000 & a Macbeth M3x that I just couldn't afford to keep.

[@AudioPilz]

Most computers are too good for it now😅 cool, Macbeth!

[@ivorydungeon909]

I've owned this synth twice, buying it the first time upon release, and the second time when they were heavily discounted. I think it was the third in my collection, with my earlier purchases being a Juno 106 and a Nord 2x. I guess I found the synth a bit disappointing, and probably bought an ultranova a short time after. I found the ultranova to be a better VA synth. Even though it also had a matrix, access to parameters was a lot better, and the ultranova's keybed is much nicer than the venom. In my lust for a bargain, I picked it up again only to go on to sell it again because I simply have too many things that make similar sounds but offer a more enjoyable user experience and only have a limited amount of studio space. I think it's an inexpensive piece of gear that offers a lot for anyone who wants to connect it to its editor, and/or wants some basic audio I/O. However, it's not the sort of instrument that really sparks much joy in me.

[@AudioPilz]

If they hadn't abandoned the Venom it could have become a classic

[@mjr2451]

I forgot Metropolis is now in the public domain

[@AudioPilz]

Great movie!

[@apoplexiamusic]

It's funny cuz i thought about this synth just yesterday, remembering when it had gone on sale for $200

[@AudioPilz]

Google knows you ;)

[@apoplexiamusic]

AudioPilz yeah! It’s gotten to the point where it’s reading my damn mind! 😂 i subbed after watching this and the Dark Star video. It’s proof that it’s not the hipster status of a piece of gear that makes it great

[@christopheronald]

i love my venom. totally gonna make something with just it for sounds now. i did this recently with a emu planet phatt. super fun to limit myself like that.

[@christopheronald]

actually.... you all should pick a popular song for me to cover. that could be fun :)

[@AudioPilz]

Venom is a strange but fun synth

[@tonverfall_studio]

Thought I'd revisit this BG-oldie and see what you had to say... Gotta admit, your videos have vastly improved over the last few years. I wonder how you would treat this gem today... Anyways, bought a mint Venom a couple of weeks ago, and love it. Yes, the UI is clunky and relying on Vyzex for sound design is a PITA, but damn this thing is FILTHY! 😃

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks!!! I'd love to revisit some of the earlier pieces of gear

[@rars0n]

Damn! This thing actually does some interesting things, as you managed to demonstrate in this video! (You're a master of gear, and as a result I defer to your demos now.) Also, I way more like the stranger stuff you did, than the more commercial stuff. No offense, you made it sound great! But that gnarly, almost unmusical stuff is what I like to hear most out of synth demos. It's borderline, dare I say it, Jexus shit! AND I LOVE IT! ALL OF IT!

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much!

[@joso7228]

The Venom seems to have all those sounds Jexus tweeks out of other Synths.

[@heathbrady8510]

I’m looking at one of these , not convinced

[@AudioPilz]

It's a mixed bag...

Fun times! Looking forward to your next video. How about those cheap Yamaha keytars or the crappy PSU's that clutter any studio?

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks man!!! Which PSUs?

@@AudioPilz You know... Every drumcomputer and synth needs a powerbrick. Especially the older ones are big as a brick. Im barely able to fit two in a three socket extension box... 🤔

[@AudioPilz]

@ Oh, yeah. Now I got it. Major PITA!!!

@@AudioPilz Most definately! Have fun making new vidz!

[@stefan1024]

Soundwise it has a lot of potential and it's own character, but also serious hardware (?) issues. Mine just went mute after a while and after doing some research it appears that I'm not the only one with this problem. Too bad, because otherwise it could have become a little modern classic.

[@AudioPilz]

A rack version would be great!

[@wighttoan]

a shop in my city has one for $350. I'm on the fence about it. Seems to have a lot of cool features, and an equal amount of flaws.

[@AudioPilz]

That seems a bit overpriced to me...

[@wighttoan]

@@AudioPilz $350 cad... about $260 usd

[@synthmalicious7541]

3:20 the instrumental sounds almost like the beginning of He’s Simple, He’s Dumb, He’s The Pilot by Grandaddy

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks, didn't know that one

[@pianokeyjoe]

I have now, the 3rd Venom I have owned and THIS time it worked out! LOL! What do I mean? Well, the first 2 Venoms I bought had key sensor board issues and only half the keys ever worked. A manufacturing issue. The second one was THE SAME!! I sold both units for parts. The 3rd unit I still own? It ACTUALLY WORKS! And so finally I get to test out and play the Venom. I say it is good synth with great features and interface for specific case use. MINE! The fact there is an Audio input but NO VOCODER or HARMONIZER, was off putting and confusing. But after finding out the keyboard IS also an AUDIO INTERFACE for the computer, then it made sense why the input but no vocoder effec like on the Novation KS or Novation ULTRANOVA. The irony here? I paid almost retail for the first 2 Venoms that did not work, but the last one I paid a ridiculous $75USD as a parts keyboard, and it actually just needed the correct power supply! YES folks, the dreaded power supply WILL be your Venoms weak link if you do not get one with enough power and the correct polarity. The unit just shuts off mid play with the wrong power supply. So be warned. Motherboard issue abound in alot of these so take care of your Venom if you are blessed enough to have one that actually Works.. And the last thing.. It is made in China.. mainland China.. If this comes out of left field for ya?, go back and read this paragraph again about the Venom ISSUES.

[@AudioPilz]

I like the venom but all I hear are stories like this about it ;)

[@pianokeyjoe]

@@AudioPilz Yeah, it is a great synth! I KNEW it would be. But the build quality and reliability factor is the downfall of it. HOWEVER, this seems to be the case with MOST modern (1990s-2000s)synths with alot of knobs and user flashable firmware. The knobs drift,some keys stop working,some sliders jump. Sadly the Roland JD800 and Korg R3 come to mind. The Venom and a Keyboard by CME both had that dead key or weird power supply issue. In the end.. nothing is meant to last for ever sadly. The audio input deal, was a error on my part, not realizing it was also a USB computer soundcard with a built in synth and keys lol! I should have known though.. the Novation XIOSYNTH is almost the SAME BEAST!

[@ralog_]

I converted mine into a desktop format. No complaints honestly. Costed me like 90 dollars

[@AudioPilz]

Cool! I would so love to have one of those...

[@ElektronikEstate]

how come nobody mentioned Vyzex, i think thats worth its weight there, as you can get under the hood. i bought this synth brand new when it came out, I definately shoulda waited, to get it cheaper, oh well...

[@AudioPilz]

Unfortunately, Vyzex is quite dated and a PITA to use while running a DAW

[@jokeyman2943]

problem is-your videos are so entertaining-now-despite promising to never buy any more gear at all, I have 2 bad gear pieces now-the Beat Thang (yeah couldn't help myself, you are partially to blame for this-actually quite a handy kit-I have, strangely, version 1.3.1??!! despite finding no evidence there was anything past 1.3, and it works pretty well. I'll post my adventures with the Venom when I get it. I also have 2 other unmentionables-the Fusion and Micron, yes I love orphaned equipment. 2 amazing music-making machines that bit the dust. Now I will have 4. Thanks again for re-kindling my bad gear lust.

[@AudioPilz]

Always a pleasure, thanks!

[@tapst3mpo73]

The drum sounds are great. The pitch wheel can be set to +/- 32! 4 part multitimbral. The UI is crippled and the only decent editor was created by a user.

[@AudioPilz]

I have to check out that editor!

[@brokengadget7519]

Very funny. Thanks!

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!

[@HailSagan_]

@2:47 legit good jam

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks!

[@emilyschmanks]

do a video on the arturia sparkLE

[@AudioPilz]

Never tried one but it doesn't look so bad. What are your main points of criticism?

[@emilyschmanks]

@@AudioPilz mostly the fact that it was being promoted as this awesome standalone-ish drum machine/groovebox that you could load sounds onto, but it really just is a midi controller for the software that comes with it seeing as it only works when you have said software running. it is also just so ugly. my local music store has like 50 of them sitting in a pile somewhere with stickers slapped on them with codes for free software. i have no idea why they decided to stock a bunch of these in 2020 (€200, wtf).

[@emilyschmanks]

@@AudioPilz great videos btw ◝( ′ㅂ`)و ̑̑

[@AudioPilz]

@@emilyschmanks thank you so much!!! Wut??? They're still selling them new???

[@emilyschmanks]

@@AudioPilz yes lmfao. i was baffled when i saw just a pile of them stacked up next to a moog one, hahaha...this is in belgium btw

[@lucaslow97]

Can you plug a guitar to the audio input without pluging it via USB to a computer? :S

[@AudioPilz]

If your computer still talks to the Venom: yes

[@fabricethomas329]

the encoders, the keyboard and the case were so poor... mine was completely bugged leds were erratic. Il liked the four outputs but I was glad when I sold it. I bought a K station instead, I didn't keep it. The sound of the Venom was good, the Kstation sound wasn't in my opinion. Maybe the Novation Kstation deserves a dedicated show.

[@AudioPilz]

Still not sure which Novation product to introduce to the BG-treatment

[@iamsteveshoe]

Have you done an episode on the Alesis Micron? It’s awful haha - well, it’s really cumbersome to tweek

[@AudioPilz]

That one came up quite often. Thanks!