Bad Gear - Yamaha AN-200

[@TheLordGU]

Maybe it’s because I’m a slowcoach, but it never fails to amaze me what you manage to include in every episode - even more so when taking into account the amount of time needed to work things out in the first place. Anyway, it sure is fun to watch and quite inspiring … (almost) every time. Thanks a lot!

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much!!!

[@smellymala3103]

@@Signal-Flow you can’t clean off character 🧐

[@TheTonyTitan]

Agreed

[@christiantorma2440]

halt echt 😎🤘 danke 😘 wir lieben bad gear 😘 🤣✌

[@AlexBallMusic]

I always miss the first note when I change sequences and I forget phrases longer than 16 steps. I think I've found a kindred spirit.

[@AudioPilz]

Lol, at least you don't mess up the following 15 steps (like me;)

[@tonalaxis]

I always miss the whole sequence.

[@danjwalker]

It gives your song a brief 5/4 time signature. I have no idea what I'm talking about. All I know is, a shit a day keeps the doctor away.

[@Tom_G_Hausler]

Danke! Prima gamacht.Wieder mal eine Geniale Präsentation. Ich mag auch die Retrigger Funktion des Solo Synh. Musst Du mal ausprobieren. Und vieles mehr....🤗🤟 Brauche den AN200 und den Dx200 fast jeden Tag.. Gute Ergänzung zu meinen Virus Synths und Roland Grooveboxen. Aber Standalone.. eher ein wenig fade... Zu wenig Soundvariationen.. Ein weitere Nachteil: Miditiming und Verstaz beim Pattern Wechsel.. But I still love this Baby... The AN200 was my first Synth..Years ago. I m still using it daily... Love the eazy handling. Cant wait to see your next Badass Gear. You are the best! 🔥🔥🔥

[@nikcorthaut3439]

@@danjwalker 5 to the floor!

[@binarysoldier]

The weekend doesn't start until Bad Gear drops

[@AudioPilz]

Have a nice weekend!

[@Claidheambmor]

Agreed! Have a great weekend!!

[@FreeThink1984]

Heckin based

[@phillytnoize]

So many pieces of gear Ive never even heard of... shows me how much I don't know. I love this series.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much!!!

[@bobbythompson4268]

Philly! If you’re in Philly, have you heard about the group that meets up, not sure where, or how often, but everyone brings their synths, and they just make noise?

[@NickHowesAstro]

This and your CS1x video made me laugh so much. I worked for almost 18 years for Yamaha's R&D, and did a lot of the sound design on the AN200/DX200/CS1x/6x/Motif/W-series/Motif etc... (many more)... The AN200 we complained to the hardware team at the time about the issues with looping and the sequencer, and after working on the AN1X (which was a dream gig, as we had Prophet V's in the office as a baseline comparison), the AN200 (editor developed by XGEDIT's Gary Gregson) was sonically just as much fun, but yup, you nailed every problem... keep up the great videos..

[@patrickbateman7444]

The AN1x is phenomenal imo. Why does it still sound so unique?

[@NickHowesAstro]

@@patrickbateman7444 Because we put a lot of work into making it so. Toshi Kunimoto (lead engineer) was a genius

[@patrickbateman7444]

@@NickHowesAstro I believe it. The amount of features this synth has is quite staggering. It was before the time, where you could ship features later via firmware updates. You can feel the passion that went into it, from the "1997" in the display booting up, to the "making of a modern classic" line in the manual. Too bad, that the user interface wasn't at the same level. I guess the tech wasn't quite ready, plus the bad idea of using the formfactor and case of a totally different synth. It should be a total legend. Now it's a more unknown legend, which is also fine since i got it quite cheap in amazing condition. Just swapped the battery, and it will be good to go for many years i assume.

[@asleeds]

The Yamaha AN1x architecture is one of the best ever made. It was criminally under-utilised by Yamaha. The world needs an AN2x.

[@gossamyr]

I'll second this, motion carried (gavel gavel)

[@EarlyMist]

AN2x with a non stepped sounding filter with similar base programming algo's along with todays DSP options could well be amazing.

[@dvdny]

@@EarlyMist - Variable step-level. In some cases, the stepping artifacts can be very musical.

[@vjspectron]

@@dvdny Yeah don't mess with my hi-resonance stepping into the delay

[@AudioPilz]

Totally want one too!

[@elijahwilliams7791]

Just as I felt the urge to binge all of this series, another one is released! It'll be a good day.

[@AudioPilz]

Hey, thanks for watching!!!

[@javierfernandez5275]

Oh My God... it's Friday!!! This is hitting home now, I used to be obsessed with Yamaha groove boxes.

[@AudioPilz]

Nothing personal;)

[@SIAKPHDLIVE]

I loved my AN 200 for many years. I’ve made a bunch of slamming tracks with it. They sound amazing and are way fun to play with.

[@AudioPilz]

I agree but its limitations are really...erm...limiting...

[@crappozappo]

Every day I'm more glad that I bought an AN-200 in, like, 2013. This was a great video! The first I've watched on this channel! That 1st note bug, man...that is indeed the #1 problem with this thing. Very true. I have been learning how to use the an-200 recently, but check this out--I began by playing it attached to a large keyboard, straight away, with a midi cable. _Then_ I began learning the programming stuff. I'm a musician 1st, not a computer programmer or music producer, you see. Right away, I was sounding like Wendy Carlos. And I hadn't even started reading the manual! For me, it is fantastic being able to set a sequence, have it play, and simultaneously play my keyboard at the same time, accompanying it. I can even change the sequence's center pitch on the fly via a control setting on the an-200 keyboard buttons, making my sequence into a chord progression. The sequence will be something like an arpeggio or bassline that I programmed into it. One hand on the an-200, other hand on the keyboard! Also! It turns out, the Song mode isn't completely useless! -The 1st note bug basically disappears in song mode.-

[@AudioPilz]

Nice, thanks! Stick aorund!!!

[@MaashuCookiemonster]

This is pound for pound the best electronic music channel on the Toobs. Super high quality all the way, thank you for giving me something to look forward to in a time where it feels like Groundhog Day for the last two years!

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much!!!

[@hatsaok8153]

How do you manage to upload these every week?! The amount of effort it must take to buy and learn a new piece of gear, then record the videos and edit them and also come up with the jams (which are always great) you deserve millions of subs

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much!!!

[@dvdny]

Agreed. I've had many of these for so long, and still don't know all the stuff he picks up in a week 😂

[@JayKaufman]

@@dvdny agreed. I've owned my AN200 for close to four years and couldn't tell you how in the hell to make a sequence on the damned thing! But then again, I don't use it for that...

[@braincoral9866]

@@JayKaufman maybe that's one of the reasons why it's in bad gear!! all of our gear has so many functions we don't use. imagine if we had time to actually learn all of it, like i used to back when it was just MIDI gear

[@internalreality]

Congrats on 50k subs, this is easily one of the best YT channels ever

[@AudioPilz]

❤️❤️❤️Thank you!!!❤️❤️❤️

[@RozyShaman]

I love this channel. The memes are always great. I particularly enjoyed the Teenage Engineering bubble wrap. Thanks for making Friday the best day of the week again.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much!

[@Vergarecords]

AN-200 and DX200 came out at the same time and I played both in the music stores, but I liked the DX200 4X more and it never lost value used. It is a classic to this day. The first thing I used that made me realize FM could be great. Yamaha discontinued it WAY too quickly.

[@AudioPilz]

True, hands-on FM was not very common back then

[@danieklerr]

Not only did it never lose it's value, but the local music "megastore" at the time ended up liquidating them for around $100. I bought two back then.

[@dvdny]

@@danieklerr Whoah, nice. Still have 'em? They're worth real money now.

[@danieklerr]

@@dvdny .. Those original two burned in a fire, but I've owned a few more over the years. I used to buy and sell gear like a madman, but lately I only collect.. No more selling! :)

[@enossifiedossified3145]

The PLG board inside the DX200 is actually a complete DX7-II. The need to use a 32 bit Windows only editor is a sad situation, though.

[@ChrisSmout]

I never understood how expensive these were and still are. Good choice for an episode, happy Friday AudioPilz

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks!

[@Pablo668]

Once again, it looks like we're creeping into good gear territory, not that I'd know. I would like to see the DX version, sounds intriguing. Great work as always!

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@huntergalloway3944]

The DX version is sickkkkkk, but I’m a total FM fanboi. Pre 2000s Yamaha is my jam. I love my EX-5, even if it is almost totally broken at this point. My RX-5 with the RX5USB is the rhythm backbone of my studio. It will forever be called YaMAha in my house. Great work as always!

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks! I'd LOVE to have the DX version!

[@holodri]

@@AudioPilz got one, wanna try?

[@rachelar]

Yeah the DX200 is cool especially the sequences . It features on a sampling CD called "Cosmic Prophets" by Richard Barbieri & Jan Linton

[@EgoShredder]

EX5 is just a total monster classic of a keyboard. My setup includes a SY55 + TG55 with all WAVE/DATA sets, QS300, 4x MU100R rack modules with 6x PLG boards (AN, AP, DX, VL, VH, DR), RM50 drum rack, 2x RY30 drum machines. Plenty of other stuff too.

[@thisisnev]

@@EgoShredder Love my EX5s; hate the owner's manual!

[@rgcmusic]

I worked at Guitar Center way back in 2002 when they were blowing them out at 299 and 199 USD. I think the Manual for the DX200 is my favorite ever. It was like: "how do we make people learn this thing but also make it like a Junior High School workbook?" I still have the DX200 but I wish the encoder wasn't wonky and skipped values sometimes.

[@AudioPilz]

Damn, I REALLY want a DX200!!!

[@Heathcliff_hensel]

its actually not that difficult to fix, its just that it takes long time to get to it.

[@autecheee]

I used to have both the AN200 and DX200 both of which were purchased at Guitar center for $199 each…..I kept the DX200. Very similar drum sounds and the sounds and patterns of the DX200 were better IMHO.

[@GeyloFollen]

That faulty encoder is dead easy to fix. I did it with some DX200 units in the past. You dont have to open it even. Only apply deoxit and you are ready.

[@d_vibe-swe]

I've got the same problem with the data knob of my DX200. Basically can't use it.

[@soundlabsounddesign9392]

I've owned the AN200 since 2002 I have a love/hate relationship with it. I never use it as a standalone box because like that it is REALLY bad gear, so I use it as a sound module, I programmed a BCR200 to control all of the parameters, including the hidden ones (VCO pitch, VCO tune, LFO2 and LFO Assignments, FM Modes, Pitch Envelope, Equalizer, Pulse Width and modulation, Velocity response for Amp and Filter, etc) and printed a visible layout to have an interface, this way it sounds amazing! Analoggy, digital, smooth and grainy, aliased monster. Also, I read that Dave Smith's team was involved in some of the development of the Virtual Analog part (5 note polyphony wink). After DSI was purchased by Yamaha he developed Vector Synthesis (SY, TG series) and worked on virtual analog / digital synthesis, then he went on to Korg and created the Wavestation (which responds to the same CC controllers for the joystick as the SY series).

[@-VCO-]

Fun story: A few years ago I met a guy who was trying to get rid of some old stuff he had no more use for. He had a MicroKorg advertised for $25. Once I got there to pick it up, I asked if there was anything else he might want to sell, so he points to a bag in the corner and tells me "Well, there's also these...". Inside the bag were both a DX200 and AN200, so I asked: how much? "60 bucks" he says, to which I asked: "Each?". "No, both" he said. I was mostly interested on the AN200, but obviously I grabbed both. I really don't care for FM synths, so I ended up selling the DX200 for $360 a few weeks later. I still have the AN200 to this day, but rarely ever use it due to the crappy interface and I'm always thinking that one of these days I might find one of those old Yamaha keyboards that can take the PLG board inside for cheap.

[@AudioPilz]

Nice!!! Why not just use it with a keyboard or DAW?

[@-VCO-]

@@AudioPilz As you pointed out in the video, you have limited access to the parameters and I almost never use a DAW. But I know it's there in case I ever need it. :)

[@wighttoan]

JEALOUS!! I thought I got a deal on my AN at $350CAD. I paid $500 for my DX though.

[@-VCO-]

@@wighttoan Yeah, that was one lucky day that I'll never forget. That dude lived in a small apartment in an old building that looked like a synth museum.

[@marcoschilling7213]

Sold my DX200 which I'd bought for $100 for £350 a few years ago as well. I recommend not checking ebay for what they sell for nowadays..

[@vetal_esher]

Thanks for the episode! I believe it was my idea in commentary some weeks ago. I had PLG150-DX in MU128 module, but its so hard to rule the sound only by software, i've searched DX200 without PLG so many years so i finally sold it and now regret it. AN200 is another tool to experiment which i have upgraded to have digital out (i'm a synth addicted engineer), nice and fffaaattt supersaw, you already know ;)

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks! The supersaw is legit!!!

[@penitentiarychances9459]

Your music is good, I love it in every single video from the theme song to the hilariously named genres for the demo parts. You are very good at making EDM. Much respect friend.

[@PaulOrtiz]

I got given one of these back when I thought hardware was dumb and plugins were all I needed. Gave it away. Deep regret. It’d really fit in well with my growing hardware setup right now. Also love your videos mate - you put in so much work and your stuff is always so entertaining. Hope your channel continues to grow!

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much, working on it!

[@djlocodoc]

I used my AN200 with my rm1x for added punch to my live shows and it worked very well. But I am guilty of removing the card and putting it in my CS6R. Audiopilz is right it shines very well as a synth engine. The jamz are fantastic as always! Great episode!

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@DavidBagshaw]

I did not know that you could use AN cards in the CS6 - that is cool. I have wondered about some enterprising hardware designer building a box that could take both cards, and add some nice controls: it won't be me, anyway.

[@djlocodoc]

@@DavidBagshaw The DX200 card works as well too! Yamaha was really good at cross utilization. I believe those cards also work in the original motif too

[@cougarman8]

I love my an200! So fun and jamable. The dx200 too! Highly recommended for quick jamming fun.

[@AudioPilz]

I'd really love to have a DX200!!!

[@blakecasimir]

On top form as always Florian. Despite its quirks, the AN1x / AN200s sound engine still sounds so good. It is a real shame Yamaha have only since put it to use in the Reface CS and - to my knowledge - nothing else.

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks! I'd get a contemporary take on that engine in a heartbeat!

[@NatLifeSounds]

Reface CS based on Yamaha AN engine?

[@akirakosaintjust]

@@NatLifeSounds it is, but it's much more limited. the sound is there though.

[@NatLifeSounds]

@@akirakosaintjust yeah I know that it's a very limited synth that's why I still didn't bought it)

[@vbarr67]

You're video are really really good. I mean not only the review but just the art and illustration and everything. I can't imagine how much time you spend looking for all these inserts and making video effects. I'm impressed, really. Keep them coming ! :) Ah and the AN200 does sound really good!

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks! Yeah, it turned into a full time job;)

[@thesrabbit]

Yes. Finally something that I presently own! You can run XGWorks with the AN200 Editor on an M1 Mac running Big Sur with Wine Crossover! If not for that, I’d probably have to let it go. You can’t even do the simplest things like dial in PWM on the front panel. The editor looks ancient but it’s very functional. Free EG is great and super useful. But the sound itself is superb. We need a full fledged CS61 based on the AN engine. Come on Yamaha!!!

[@AudioPilz]

Yeah, they should totally resurrect that engine!!!

[@RichardDenRooyen1973]

u run it on a M1 Mac, but not directly?? and here i am, running Yamaha An1x Editor, decades old, directly from within W10 😂

[@thesrabbit]

@@RichardDenRooyen1973 I mean, yeah, wine crossover does its magic, but it launches and runs just as smoothly as a native app. It definitely doesn’t look like a native app though! Side bonus: since the AN200 editor requires XGWorks, you get all those vintage Windows 95 XG sounds!

[@thesrabbit]

@@AudioPilz in a fully featured format! No more being hidden behind a limited Reface or buried in a “synth book” app. Actually, that app could be a contender for an episode. “Hidden Gear?”

[@markmiller2949]

I would love to see your take on the DX200. You’re right on their limitations for any deep programming. In 2001, I had a computer that could run the accompanying software. It really opened up the DX200.

[@AudioPilz]

I unironically want that one!

[@greenspoondcfc]

surprised the RM1X hasn't been reviewed yet, drum samples, synth sounds, FX and a full 16 channel midi step sequencer all in one which sends midi out over 16 channels also, that blue box is a beast

[@AudioPilz]

Great suggestion, thanks!

[@kevanmclean]

The RM1x is an evil-doing miscreant... I love it!

[@ArunKumar-pr5ly]

Piano Reeves :D :D it's amazing how you manage to put in so many little interesting things in your videos, which are so easy to miss. Keep them coming, it's such a treat :)

[@AudioPilz]

Happy to hear that, thanks!

[@karllongden4011]

That video and tune at the end was brillaint took me back into the 90's you dont need a flux capacitor to to go back to future just an An-200

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@miekwavesoundlab]

I love An200 best 16-Step sequencer for making quick 16 step sequencer even with daw 4 midi channels. I like it’s step offset/half-time/cut-time/reverse-time/step-mute/beat-repeat/step-remix all record into midi daw in real-time for mono synth and drum patterns! Access step sequencer remix functions holding shift button with buttons and transport controls and record in daw. Use momentary and toggle sequencer shifts. Try it out! Good for 16-step dubstep beats, hip hop beats, trance beats, and rock beats. Works on external drum sounds just map the midi notes and velocity. Infinite variation of 16-step bars to make beats or bassline on. Good for mangling and recording remixing 16 step beats. Modern sequencers don’t even compare n that regard.

[@AudioPilz]

Nice input, thanks!

[@synthgal1090]

ooooooh, i need more synths that have that "scene" function seamlessly blending between patches is just fucking cool also given that PS1 polygonal graphics are seeing an indie comeback, I need the accompanying music to as well

[@AudioPilz]

Yeah, that scene functionality is really nice

[@thelabby9998]

Old pss/psr with vector synth joystick?

[@dvdny]

Also - Nord Lead 3 (the only one with encoder knobs) has an incredible function like this - finely morph between 2 separate patches on the fly using the mod wheel.

[@Karlagrammar]

Brother you by far the best thing on KZbin and you’ve inspired me to really deep dive into hands on music making. Thanks for continuing to make great shit!

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much!!!

[@KattKirsch]

I had no idea this thing even existed! What a crazy little box. This is gonna have me listening to cheesy goa cd rips on youtube all day now XD

[@AudioPilz]

Yeah, oldschool GOA!!!

[@DJVasC]

I love the Yamha AN sound so much. And yes, I look forward to an episode with the DX-200 also. And maybe the AN1x....not due to his sound, but the at first glance spartan user interface.

[@AudioPilz]

Great suggestions, thank you!!!

[@BeniRoseMusic]

As an EMX owner, i will forever call it Motion Sequencing

[@AudioPilz]

I'm a mixing console guy - it's still just "automation" for me;)

[@flowbius]

What I think is fascinating, that you allways come up with some cool grooves. No matter what´s on the table. 😁🤙

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks!

[@HazyJ28]

Welcome to Bad Gear, the show that makes my weekends bearable

[@AudioPilz]

❤️❤️❤️WEEKEND!!!❤️❤️❤️

[@CaidicusProductions]

In my opinion, THE best series on KZbin, full stop.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much!!!

[@We.Are.Lockhart]

The "vintage" Yamaha AN-technology still one of the best VA in my ears. I used the AN-200 as a synth expander in a Rockband for years and loved it. Did never really care about the groovy part of the box...

[@AudioPilz]

Using it as a sound module is maybe the best choice

[@javiceres]

That’s cheap!

[@koji505]

Great video !! Is funny how some people bought the AN200 to take out the synth card and then sold them without the card.

[@AudioPilz]

I've heard that too! I would be sooooo angry!!!

[@darrenbrown7134]

So much in fact that many selling them or inquiring about them asks if the card is still intact. Sold mine and miss the squelchy sound this box made.

[@adwarfsittingonagiantsshoulder]

The AN-200 sounds great, just as the RM1X and AN1x. Yamaha hired the best of the best to create its Virtual Analog engine, and I find that the AN1x is one of the better sounding VA with the Novation Supernova II and nova family, also the Korgs MS-2000 and more "modern" derivatives. But I don't think I will have any space for such big synths as an AN1x or Supernova... I will stick to VST has they use less desktop space. Thank you for making bad Gear so fun with all those jokes !

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much!!!

[@Chuggnuts]

The an1x is one of the most underrated synths ever made, probably because of its lack of knobs/sliders, but it did cost about half of a jp8000, had a much better keyboard and IMO sounds better.

[@adwarfsittingonagiantsshoulder]

@@Chuggnuts I totally agree !

[@inthefade]

I totally agree. These were among the best VA synths and still have their own unique charm.

[@lo-firobotboy7112]

I've wanted one of these forever. Now I want it even more!

[@AudioPilz]

TRYOUTS!!!;)

[@187onasimp]

Back before manufacturers made affordable gear... this was the type of stuff you had to work with... I bet you could make a whole Ace of Base album with this.

[@AudioPilz]

All that she wants!!!

[@felixvondohlen6128]

Like always, your demo tracks are absolute bangers!

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you❤️❤️❤️

[@cedwards427]

I looked for one of these for years, but all I ever found were the lifeless husks on eBay after someone removed the PLG150 card. I finally realized at some point I had enough VA and non-VA analog synths and that I don't need an AN200. That's a sign of maturity, right? I have a DX200 that I need to get some more use out of (I have an appropriately old PowerMac to run the software).

[@AudioPilz]

Nice, having a dedicated PowerMac for the editor is the right thing to do!!!

[@DCPier]

Lol, tried to keep a Win 98SE machine around for my DX200 but it was too much of a hassle, now I'm using the online-editor made by Oscillator Sink

[@cedwards427]

@@DCPier The PowerMac also runs my Korg Oasys DSP card. Aside from the obnoxiously loud fans and hard drive, the PowerMac isn't that bad.

[@CaptainAlbatross]

Another synth I used to have, and an awesome one at that! Always loved the synth-engine, great for trancy stuff and bizarre noises when the oscillators were synced. Awesome. Made a bunch of tracks with it, including a hardstyle remix of a Kylie Minogue song. Yes. I have no shame. Great stuff maestro, loving the jams as well! Hope to see it’s FM-sibling on here soon.

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks! Shamelessness is a necessary trait for artists;)

[@CaptainAlbatross]

@@AudioPilz Yamaha also makes pretty good drumkits by the way… Been playing their Oak Customs for years! Started out my synthesizer adventures with a CS2X, which is a pretty good add to the Bad Gear list imo!

[@raz_van__]

the karateka guy doing the dance was awesome!

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks! That guy's got the groove!

[@briansansone]

AudioPilz makes me laugh every time. So creative, and the best delivery! Especially the end summery of this one. "Should you buy something that all your other modern stuff already does"? Most of the time AudioPliz makes me want to go get one of the reviewed pieces of kit. Not this one though. I already have stuff that does the same thing...better.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much!!!

[@icecreammm2]

I bought it a couple years back and sold it within a year to get an AN1x. I couldn't be happier. I think the AN200 was my most disappointing gear, but then it was only around 200 Euro. One must be crazy to buy this for 400+ Euro / dollars!

[@thesrabbit]

I did the opposite! The matrix of buttons to the right of the LCD screen on the AN1x makes my head hurt. When I got the AN200, I knew I’d be forced to use the software editor and somehow I was ok with that. The AN1x is superior as a synth though. Everything except supersaw, I guess. AN200 has a little more bite to it I think. Some people might not like that.

[@AudioPilz]

Yeah, prices are crazy atm

[@braincoral9866]

dude....you need to open a shop selling bad gear. you have the best video sales archive going

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@hiding_my_name]

I picked up a Roland EF-303 not too long ago and I can't decide if it's awesome, or really bad. There would be so much to talk about regarding this machine. It's more than an effects unit, it has an on board bass synth, and monophonic drum sequencer. I would love it if you told me if it was terrible, or actually good.

[@AudioPilz]

That one would be great for the show, thank you for the suggestion. Still trying to find an affordable one

[@thisisnev]

It's also a step sequencer that can drive another synth via MIDI, and a pretty impressive voice transformer. The motion sequencer is a neat feature, too. It's no 303+606, though - the bass synth and drum functions are very limited.

[@vjspectron]

@@thisisnev Isn't that the one that's SP-202 + MC-303 + keys?

[@luckyllou7325]

I love your/our nerdism. Its like a world wide synth & other nerdstuff supportgroup every friday. I always watch the videos twice and the second time I read through the problems of the other members of the self-help/support group. It really helps a lot. 😉

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@squeakD]

Maybe I’m just getting old, but I thought this thing was pretty brilliant for the time. Maybe that’s because I remember when a Fostex reel to reel recorder was on the wish list of many, and we still had to sell our souls just for a four track tape.

[@AudioPilz]

Yeah, multitrack was like the holy grail!

[@blackmirror5559]

. This is an absolutely brilliant (and accurate) presentation! .

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you❤️❤️❤️

[@marcbrasse747]

The DX 200 is a powerful synth I underestimated myself. It is a fully fledged polyphonic FM synth that actually goes back to the hallowed and rare FS1R, although it misses the formant section if I remember correctly. With an editor it is a beast. As far as the AN 200 is concerned the same probably applies. If you want total DAW flexibility buy a DAW and stop moaning. If you a look at it from a more realistic perspective and just take it as it is it will serve you well, my Paduan!

[@AudioPilz]

Amen (break)!!!

[@jc3drums916]

I thought Florian lived in Vienna, not Padua? 🤣

[@DavidBagshaw]

The XG Editor still behaves on Windows, thanks to Microsoft's good backward compatibility over the years.

[@oofdah6738]

You nailed it in the verdict. Nowhere near as "all in one" as its early 00's groove box peers but the best to use in a modern set up for it's second to none sonic character. Mine is firmly in the 'will not sell even under the threat of eviction' pile of my collection. Easy episode to file under Bad *actually legendary* Gear.

[@AudioPilz]

Yeah, got that pile as well. I call it the "pension fund";)

[@CaptainZuurpruim]

Nice one again, mr Pilz! You would really love the RS7000, it has also some quirky things. For instance, changing patterns will produce a small "hickup" at the start of the new pattern. This is ridiculously annoying performing live, but I still love her.. :)

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks! Yeah, same thing with the AN-200. Really frustrating!

[@fsuchs]

Perfect timing for bringing the SH-32 back to business!

[@AudioPilz]

True! I still need to find an affordable one

[@Pheonix0114]

DX-200 yes please. Also, karate dancing man was incredible.

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks for the comment! I'll try to find one!

[@jakeuglyface]

the dx-200 sounds amazing (to me anyways) I have had both the an-200 and dx-200. the dx has an fm sound but can be tweeked for really weird sounds. Great for percussive stuff.

[@h2o1969]

Such an awesome sense of humor.. Thanks goodness for Friday.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much!!!

[@agentvx8320]

Super powerful basic capabilities crippled by the ancillary workhorse features being an obvious afterthought? Yamaha was channelling Roland with this one.

[@AudioPilz]

So true!!!

[@chedhead3278]

Cheers Florian, that's my kinda cheese. Excellent culinary skills to bring out the deep yet piquant flavours. Bravo.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you so much, cheers!

[@teknopony]

I bought a DX200 fairly recently... it's much the same story. I'm working on an updated editor for it. The combo of older 6-op + filter etc... it can sound FM-great, but workflow on the device is a bit painful. And you have 6-op, but nowhere near enough control on the device... and the (non-apple-only) software(s) available aren't great. As a groovebox... eh... not what I bought it for, but definitely not surprisingly inspiring

[@AudioPilz]

That's what I thought. I still totally want one;)

[@xtalviper]

The Joker reference to the low price Reverb item at the end - well done, scared the cat from actually laughing out loud.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@ZiegWarheit]

Someone has just bought the last one from Reverb. Cannot blame the person. Your videos are quite GAS inducing.

[@AudioPilz]

Hopefully no billiard queues were harmed in the process;)

[@allanroney]

I love your video editing skills - really make these videos a treat.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@Superjenson]

I bought the DX200 back when it came out and i still like it... and tolerate all the quirks. Still, if i did not own one, i would not buy one today.

[@AudioPilz]

Nice!

[@BuddhaPhi]

Thanks again for the excellent vid! I nearly bought one of these when new but I already had purchased a Yamaha SW1000XG soundcard with a PLG150-AN add-on board a couple years earlier. Around 2003 I sold the soundcard and board for far less than I paid for it and instantly regretted it. I thought the virtual analog engine sounded really good compared to anything else at the time.

[@thesequencer4971]

Aren`t Vintage Rompler Sounds just like Old School Memes You can actually play 08:42 😎👍🤩

[@AudioPilz]

❤️❤️❤️

[@LouisSerieusement]

I was not ready for that techno viking meme from 20 years ago xD Awesome episode, it sounds really peculiar in a good and surprising way !

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!! Expect the unexpected;)

[@ExperimentIV]

how are you not sponsored by jomox yet?

[@AudioPilz]

I really like the sound of JOMOX gear but I assume it would get quite some heat on this show for the UI

[@johannes.nieuwenhuizen]

Good stuff. My favourite part of all of these videos is how you actually make everything sound good in the jams. Anyway, never played with the AN, but had its twin, the DX200 and I didn't like it one bit. That's a pity because I love most Yamaha gear from that era. A DX video would be cool, but they're even pricier than the AN and identical, save for the synthesis.

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks! Totally trying to find a DX without having to sacrifice a kidney;)

[@johannes.nieuwenhuizen]

@@AudioPilz I don't know what's the average street price for a kidney in Austria these days...

[@uly1981]

an1x was my second and much-loved synth back in the 90s - why destroy my nostalgia with this abomination

[@AudioPilz]

Hey, blame Yamaha, not me;)

[@odiroot]

Admittedly, I looked at this with pity. It does look like a toy. But once you started demoing all the features, whoa. It packs a lot of power!

[@AudioPilz]

Great synth engine!!!

[@robgs]

Vangelis using midi packs.... :)

[@AudioPilz]

That one had me rofling too

[@caveymon]

Awesome! Did not expect this when you commented "wait for it" last week. :D One of the things on my most wanted list. Good thing I already have it's big brother the AN1x. Will still wait on the bad gear episode on that one, although you did reference it in this video as inarguably great va engine, but there's so much hate on the matrix control, so maybe there's a Better Gear review waiting for that one? :D

[@petertorda5487]

As you mention, best on it is that PLG150-AN card inside. Now get two, put them into Motif-RACK (classic, or ES), and you will have 10voices (or two parts with 5 of each) with motif effects :-D

[@AudioPilz]

Damn, I want a MOTIF now;)

[@petertorda5487]

@@AudioPilz Motif-Rack classic was quite omitted by everybody due to MIDI timing issue on launch (It was resolved by latest FW 1.02), due to that price is quite low. But despite of that is is quite interesting module. If you open it you can see, that they used inside mainboard from upcoming ES model (there are even spaces for two DIM RAM slots :-)), but with old ROM. So you have interesting combination of new effects and filters, with samples from classic. :-)

[@enossifiedossified3145]

@@AudioPilz You can also take the board out of the DX200 and have a complete DX7-II inside your Motif. Three slots, two AN boards and a DX board all of which are independent of the Motif's sample based engine so they actually add polyphony and can be played by the onboard sequencer plus use the onboard effects. Yamaha abandoned the multi engine concept but Korg used it for Kronos.

[@hazedtape]

"This is not a toy" is simply there to tell you that this is professional badass device for pros doing serious pro stuff and not for kids doing lame kids stuff :)

[@jeno.javori_music]

wow what a cool music at 8:50 sh1t mann! Awesome! Couldnt stop listening it! Great video as always!

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@NeoLudditevisons]

This is deffo the best bit of bad gear demoed yet!

[@AudioPilz]

Yeah, that one is quite unique

[@nicholasdaub8765]

Love these both the Yamaha an 200and sx200 both together are a dance party 🎉🎉!! ❤❤❤

[@AudioPilz]

😻 😻 😻

[@aki_gong6271]

Hi :) I was in the hunt for one of those for many years. About 8 years ago, I found one in a pawn shop, I think it was about 150€. I bought it ant took it home. What a surprise when after playing and testing for a bit I noticed that the synth chip was missing so I had to turn it back :/ I heard that it was a typical practice to remove the chip and sell it without it... I never looked back into buying another one as it has been so pricy every time I checked. Anyway, you should pair with a dx200 and a su200 to make the whole 200s series ;) keep it up man 👍 what a superb work :)

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks! It should be outlawed!!!

[@aki_gong6271]

@@AudioPilz Indeed! And straight to jail if founded who was the responsable of such crime ajajjaja

[@arhythmatek-1683]

I could go on and on about what's great about this thing. I would LOVE one. That chip Yamaha made was insanely GREAT.

[@AudioPilz]

We need a reissue of that

[@ecrylian]

Ooh I've always been interested in this line of gear! I used some samples from the fm variant in one of my favorite compositions, so I'm keeping an eye out for one on the classifieds!

[@AudioPilz]

Yeah, I unironically want the DX version!!!

[@jokchung]

great video!! Love your channel! I picked up a used AN200 this year that appears to have never been used. Like new, out of the box, and the sticker was still on the display :)

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@kramregnu2945]

Just found your content. Love the supporting images and gifs.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@adiosmuchachitos]

Thanks for these. I am finally able to get rid of all the bad decisions I have made and for a bump in the price!

[@JayKaufman]

BTW, there's both an Ableton Max For Live editor for the AN200 and also a CTRLR panel and individual VST editor for it too. Very handy.

[@lutboy2909]

uffffffffffffffff that engine sound SMOKES!!!! the 90's and 00's sound in a box, so amazing!!!!! sadly it is hard to control alone

[@TiberianFiend]

It's been 2 years... I think it's time for a sequel with the DX200.

[@AudioPilz]

Already keeping my eyes peeled for one!!!

[@genm4827]

I really liked the jam(s) on this episode!

[@AudioPilz]

Thanks!

[@Kopekemaster]

Oh man, this thing sounds and looks fucking AWESOME. The rich noisy waveforms sound incredible.

[@AudioPilz]

Total fan of that synth engine too!

[@NoyaD9]

As usual the final jam is pure fire!

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@danhectic5629]

yet another NOT toy that i probably would've bought had i ever got to mess with a demo unit. sounds good! Great Jams as always!

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!

[@K0nt4kt]

Nice! you finally got your hands on one :D

[@AudioPilz]

Yeah, a friend of mine had it in the studio

[@habemusfyah]

Amazing tune today ! Have AB preset is an amazing feature.

[@AudioPilz]

Thank you!!!