DAWLESS MISTAKE // Should Have Bought Montage Instead

[@BeyondTyrants]

When it comes to DAW vs DAWless setups in the studio, I've opted for both! I've tried one or the other but the problem I have is that starting songs on the computer is boring but finishing songs on hardware is painful, so now I start my songs on hardware and then finish them on the computer. It's the best of both worlds. The trick is being able to seamlessly move between the two, which isn't that hard these days when DAWs like Ableton have the Push and Move and Note. My DAWless setup isn't even truly DAWless. It's running into a mixer app on the iPad. My DAW setup has expensive hardware. I've got an Apollo interface. Those things cost just as much as synths, not to mention all the plugins. We've blurred the lines between the two camps so much that they're not even separate camps anymore. All that matters in the end is that you are able to express yourself as an artist. Figure out whichever way works best for you and produce something with it. After a certain point, it's time to turn off GearTube and make some music!

[@Chloroplastism]

This!

[@flyfl804]

Agreed

[@RyanMacWee]

This is such an obvious answer that I think this whole daw vs dawless debate is just done by KZbinrs trying to generate views. Get a physical instrument that is fun to play and write songs on…software instrument the rest

[@jake_d1991]

Yeah, totally I agree. I was trying to go DAWless, but I ended up figuring out that I just love to use hardware instead of VSTs. I realized I don’t mind using daws for recording, arranging, and mixing my songs. I just get turned off by using VSTs. I also prefer to jam live instead of DJ, so hardware is still the way to go for live performances. DAW/Hardware combo set up is the best for sure.

[@jameskerr9509]

I have done the opposite. Start on the computer then port to the synth for live performance

[@tecnos-uk]

I had all outboard gear when I was younger, Atari ST, Korg M1, D50, the odd analogue keyboard and samplers etc., but I'm now all in the DAW. I just love the instant recall and multiple instances of instruments/FX and no wires all over the place. Also, your wife doesn't have a clue of your sneaky purchases 😅

[@Satwamassive]

Hahaha....I used to get my purchases delivered to my work and then smuggle them into my house to hide it from my wife.

[@Lofilegacybeats]

You are right

[@tecnos-uk]

I've done that in the past, I bought a MOTU 828 mkiii audio interface and sneaked it into the rack unit in my loft studio lol

[@DarthAxiom71]

Agree. I would take a Keylab and Logic Pro over all that mess and cost. And I used to own SEVERAL thousands of dollars of hardware back in the 90’s. The convenience, cost, ease of use, sound quality, dynamic range, etc of modern VST’s and DAW’s is a no brainer for me. I would never go back

[@mfurman]

I simply have Yamaha CK-61, Arturia V Collection X and Pigments, a few piano VSTs, Soniccouture All Saints Organ, IK Multimedia Hammond B-3X and Grand Orgue with a few organ sample sets

[@joonglegamer9898]

I've had my Montage for about 5 years now, it's a beast, and there's no sound in the world you can't make with it, bought it second hand as it was FAR too expensive. However, 2 years ago I got the Akai MPC key 61, I wasn't a part of that whole MPC groove, chopping, cooking, looping, sample-reusing kind of culture that follows MPC, but the Key 61 was a workstation game-changer for me. You just turn it on, you can have a lot of VSTs in it, it updates from the internet directly, and they've even released a FREE MPC 3 complete composer (built right in) for it now. And I have to admit, I've hardly used any of my other gear. You swith it on, in 5 minutes you've produced a basic beat, in 30 minutes you have a completely new song ready to upload for the world to enjoy with you. It's the best workstation I've ever had. I'm the same age as you bud, and I'll say this - I totally feel you for all those dinky lil minisynths and gadgets the industry is releasing for nostalgics and GAS folks everywhere, but they never end up satisfying you like a good workstation does. It's just sit down and produce, and I like it that way.

[@rogerioamorim8057]

I guess it also depends a lot on the style of music that you’re making. 😉 I own workstations, more specifics synths, and the DAW + VST instruments on a laptop. I don don’t own any MPC, and I looked recently at the MPC keys (61 and 37), and I was not convinced that it would be right for me (I may be wrong). All the videos that I watched seem to focus a lot on getting so,e results quickly (starting of with the beats), but we’re very underwhelming as whole source of sounds for creating other music genres. Maybe this is due to several years of using Cubase, but if I only want to make beats and add bass and other more “generic” instruments, I can do it very quickly. I can’t say if it’s faster or slower than in the MPC Keys, but that’s certainly not a long task. I rarely use samples (I mean, I use a lot of sampled/rom synths, but that’s different), and if I’d had to guess where I spend my time the most, it may be on the articulation of certain VST instruments (like strings, guitars, etc), which I don’t know if the MPC is able to do. (?) So I would like to ask you what’s the music genre that you do the most, and you end up using the sounds of the MPC as the final result (like something that you would publish on a “record” / Spotify, etc), or more like something to carve the foundation for your songs. I guess that this might be somehow specific depending on the music genre, but my question comes from not finding any finished song done entirely (or mostly) on the MPC Keys, with vocals added later, etc? Thank you. 🙂

[@joonglegamer9898]

@@rogerioamorim8057 The MPC can run VST's like Cubase, it's kind of like an integrated DAW. When I bought mine, it came with its own Strings VST, and they're fantastic, then there is the Hype and Fabric XL, it also has OPx-4 (an FM synth) etc. The music types I make is mostly live-play directly on the piano keys, I use the pads to make the rythm, and just add sounds by pressing next-track etc. It's fairly straight forward and zero menu diving. I make all kinds of music from Classical sounding adventure type of music to electronics music, all kinds of stuff. The MPC can also act as a controller for your entire studio such as remote controlling and using your mixer as a sound card, it can control 8 CV analog ports, and both old school DIN-based MIDI to USB based midi. It's crazy versatile.

[@TheScreamingFrog916]

I love all my "GAS" toys, but having an all in one, that you can save and recall as a preset/project is pretty cool too. I have an MPD One, that I rarely use, because it is too complicated for me to enjoy. I spend too much time trying to figure it out, and I forget what I was trying to do, and loose my inspiration. I'm hoping the new ver 3 OS will be better. For me, the ElektronSyntakt, and Digitakt 2, are my favorite groove boxes, and the Elektron Workflow allows me to create fun stuff, without getting to bogged down in the process.

[@xadovitch6630]

@TheScreamingFrog916 I almost didn't touch my MPC One for two years, but I'm beginning to enjoy it now that I'm getting used to the workflow. It's can do a lot of things for a standalone device

[@djangofett4879]

ModX is half the price of a montage but contains all the same sounds and functions as Montage and ModX+ even has full polyphony of the montage in the FM engine.

[@crasheffort]

If you are going to have several instruments, you really should set up a permanent studio space with everything connected. Being able to come in and turn everything on with a single switch and get right to work while you are still feeling inspired is necessary. That initial inspiration will be destroyed by having to connect everything and troubleshooting problems. This will also make learning the synths easier if you don't have to focus on making sure everything works.

[@k5r2d2]

A musician needs to pick up their instruments and play as you have said. Nobody pratices their guitar or trumpet by using a virtual instrument in a DAW. So the immediacy of playing live and dawless is key. A boutique bass guitar is 3-5000$. So the whinning at the beginning of this video is LAME. Custom golf clubs - same price not to mention all the dumb money at the club. Yeah - collecting gear over time purposefully and slowely is the right way to go. No real musician has less 10-20k in gear.

[@playeveryday01]

another problem is doing live shows, having to disconnect and reconnect all the time gets annoying. I'm stuck between exporting all the drum machine stems to the sampler but losing the ability improvise with the sequencer.

[@GrandCaravel]

@@k5r2d2 You do not need 10-20k in gear to be considered a "real musician." I know so many full-time gigging musicians who just have one instrument and not even a very expensive one. I used nothing but a P-bass and a DI box all the way through college and my early career, but I guess I can't be considered a "real musician" until I've bought a Fodera or a Mayones

[@nemnoton]

If you have just one machine and make all the music with that, the music will sound like that particular set of sounds from one source. But if you pick several machines of your interest and explore them, it will be part of the creative process to combine sounds from your own selecttion of sound sources, so it will potentially be more diverse and unique combination of sounds. And I think it's also good to explore different stuff to unlock creative ideas..

[@thetruemrstallings]

I agree 100 percent!

[@jtrace-444]

Exactly!!.... Well said.🍺

[@petevineaux]

That's just not true at all. There are very very few things that you just can't do without reaching for another machine.

[@grvcvlt]

Thats why samplers exist

[@RoidDroidVoid]

@@petevineaux Getting something 'done' is not the same thing as creating interesting music people want to hear. That seems the difference in mentality that makes a workstation user versus a synth person. Granted, one is typically altogether more productive than the other however.

[@cloudseer]

I like the physical interfaces, that we have lost using modern touchscreen devices and mouse.

[@TheScreamingFrog916]

True, I feel the same way. But there are some iPad apps that use that interface in a unique way, that would be impossible to do on hardware. So I love both.

[@E4RLIES]

True, I felt the same, but just bought an Arturia midi control keyboard and it has knobs and slides that directly affect the ableton patches etc I still have my hardware setup but it’s becoming about 75% ableton now. Having the hardware is a nice luxury and I’ll often use it to sample loops and arpeggios from 👍🏼

[@rlm4471]

You can use a DAW to control hardware instruments over MIDI, and then record and mix the results in the DAW. That's the best of both worlds, IMHO.

[@arkasonus7678]

Keyboard guy vs Synth guy. I'm definitely a synth guy. So no workstation. And it's a pleasure to have multiple instruments. When I started my musical journey, i chose an all in one synth JV 880 (8 parts). But using the same instrument was frustrating. I started to get other synths like a Bass Station 1 and discovered that it was what i like. Now i probably own more than 50 synths (most of them are small desktop modules). It's the pleasure of the instrument, their sounds, their shapes, their specificities. But I'm not into the DAWless thing. I started with an Alesis MMT8 as sequencer in early 90s, and I'm happy that DAWs exist since then.

[@leftmono1016]

The Bass Station 1 was a game changer for me. First taste of analog gear, immediately sold my JD990 and never looked back.

[@Calimakoo]

Same bro.😎

[@rhill109]

The problem with having lots of synths isn’t necessarily the cost of the units, it’s having them all hooked up at the same time. The cabling, stands, desks, mixer inputs and actual space is where the real cost is.

[@aloharay]

agreed, a high cost in money, space and TIME.

[@rhill109]

@@aloharay Time isn't so much an issue because I like to do it.

[@stephenhookings1985]

And standby power :-) and noodling time. And RTFM time to get best out of them. But I have time and fixing broken old kit. And power them on when necessary

[@Tezzer-nz1]

Head space: deciding what to use, keep, sell etc

[@NOLNV1]

It is so frustrating, I ended up having several pieces of gesr with stereo outs before I got myself a stereo preamp or even mixer, not to mention all the midi mess. Although, it is fun to have the stuff so I wouldn't want to part with it

[@marresjepie1887]

All totally valid points! However, for me it’s just about the ‘fun’ of having tons of gear with each their own characteristics and sound qualities and just ‘have at it’. It’s what I do with several years of classical piano training, being bored out of my mind with that (or just not good enough) and dreaming of making the ethereal soundscapes of a Jarre, Kitaro, Schulze, Tomita and more, all the ‘grandfathers of Synth’ -for myself while I tenaciously, but bored, hammered away for hours on end to get the classical pieces my tutors deemed ‘necessary’ into my little brain and fingers. (Don’t get me wrong. Now I’m older, I appreciate those years. They made “playing keys” second nature, helped by a musical ear and solfeggio burnt in my brain.) I’m not a professional musician. Absolutely not. My siblings went that way. I didn’t. I got into ICT by accident.. :P I play purely for my own enjoyment. Having said all of that, I dó have the luxury of a space where I can leave everything where it is, connected and all. Having to dust it all every now and then is the only drawback. :P Added to that, I’... Ehmm.. ‘can afford it’ so to speak. Though, ‘GAS’ ìs my weakness, admittedly :D. Then again, I’m none too bothered if I have to sell stuff if I need the space, or am just bored with a certain machine. On the other hand, I do my ‘practicing’ and deconstructing of music that I want to play ‘because’, on.. yup…. A simple DGX670 that’s just standing there in the sitting room. In the end it’s just a ‘hobby’ for me. Other people have tons of LEGO, or eye-wateringly expensive 1/6 scale action figures, or dolls, if You will, or die-cast cars that cost as much as a real one. Is it useful? Not to ‘the greater world, no. It’s all about the enjoyment one gets, I guess. A ‘professional’ looks at stuff as ‘investment’, a hobbyist like me looks at it as ‘enjoyment’ and if family and friends ask for a little music, they can get it, but that’s as far as it goes for me.

[@TheScreamingFrog916]

This is very much my feeling too.

[@cs00aap2]

Thanks for the message, this has calmed my anxiety significantly after my overspend on music gear during this black Friday period.

[@Fjarskiptagervitungl]

There is lots of creativity in connecting different pieces of gears up. I usually feel my setup gets 'stale' after a while so I love having lots of different pieces of gear I can connect together in a new way.

[@scottystef]

Great discussion. I built a dedicated home studio with lots of modular gear and Native Instruments Maschine as a sound bank. I lost it all in a house disaster and am back with Roland MV1, JDxi, and a Boss RC 505. I've gone deep into those which is discipline to go deep and keep using **THESE ONLY**, using their limits as creative benefits. Whenever I get G.A.S. I come back to my workflow, and print the sections of the manuals with a highlighter pen to keep me learning.

[@krakulandia]

Instead of always having to haul all the gear when you want to use them, try what happens when you dedicate a small free space right next to your workstation synth. You can put a single piece of extra gear there quickly and easily without hassle. Hook it up and use it with your workstation. You could have a lot of fun that way, changing the gear quickly and easily whenever the inspiration strikes.

[@RobertFisher1969]

When asking these kind of questions, the answer is almost always: Workflow. Finding a workflow that works for you for any specific task is the most important factor. For myself, I have four groups of instruments for different purposes: Guitars and acoustic instruments for non-electronic music. Yamaha Refaces for self-contained, turn-on-and-play keyboard playing anywhere. A few analog synths just to have the experience of analog. MIDI controllers and my iPad for recording. It occurs to me that one universal problem with most electronic music hardware is that MIDI settings are always buried. That really inhibits workflow unless you're just using a single bit of kit all by itself. (And even my Refaces can be more fun together when wired up and configured, but the "power on while holding a key you'll have to look up in the manual" configuration for all but the DX, the silly Reface-only dongle for MIDI, and the lack of MIDI Thru hampers doing that without pre-planning.) Someone should make a line of gear where all the MIDI settings are considered first class features with clear, front-panel controls and with the full trinity of MIDI ports. I think a company like-for example-Donner-could do some disruption that way.

[@dj-cyr3nt]

Really insightful - I think there's a difference between a performance and a producer that will make your setup look very different. My workflow is multi-track recording and writing flow, but you may start with performance as a musician and build around that. You may enjoy the flow of building in real time and recording as you go, or maybe you start with a reference track and figure out an arrangement. You might begin with just a vocal track, or melody, or something like that. Perhaps playing a riff or chord progression inspires something.

[@kostisv]

Elektron

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

I have a studio full of synths. 90% of the time I'm using my Montage M and my Hydrasynth Deluxe.

[@djtommykeys]

This might be the wrong channel for my story but my house was badly damaged by a hurricane. I lived in a hotel room for ten months while repairs were being done. Out of necessity I moved my music workflow from hardware to software. Now it's all on my MacBook Pro and my iPad. I enjoy the freedom. I'm OG and started my career in the 1970's with a Hammond M3 and a Rhodes stage piano. Times have changed and I've tried to stay current.

[@dj-cyr3nt]

Yeah, there must be millions of patches at this point with all the plugins I have available. If I learned just a little more sound design I could probably recreate any sound on the mac or find a sample library for it, or just record it. There should be a competition for this in the Olympics or something, to recreate a sound on the fly you haven't heard before within a time limit LOL

[@djtommykeys]

@@dj-cyr3nt man I could dig an Olympic beat making competition. There's a plugin for all the old analog synths. Great idea.

[@TheSpinningBandGR]

​@@djtommykeysit's not the same, a computer can never compete with a machine. Yes, they can work together but never will a computer be a machine. Without all the sounds from vintage gear and miking things up like a Leslie or how the reverb on a Hammond echoes when you hit the machine. It's just not the same one is a computer, one is a machine. A computer can never capture the bits of reality that make a machine a machine. Moving parts and sounds etc. That make older recordings more unique. Your removing real world differences In gear and how different gear can slightly sound different in different environments and climates. It removes the realism of capturing culture or environments in music.

[@chinossynthesizer705]

The computers could never copy the sound of old 70s farfisa analog string machines.

[@JimmiG84]

A hybrid setup works the best for me. I do all my sequencing on the DAW and I also use a lot of VST's, however I also have a handful of hardware synths for when I just want to jam for inspiration. All my hardware synths are hooked up to an audio interface so they're ready to record, and I've deliberately chosen hardware with patch memories so I can save and recall any sounds I make.

[@MSHRadio-dj5zn]

I do the same thing. However I don't care about storing patches.

[@MrSlipstreem]

I went the route of buying a Korg NTS-1 for £100, filling it with custom oscillators (including two drum machines) and custom effects then plugging it into an IQaudio Codec Zero ADC/DAC on a Raspberry Pi5 and running the free Ardour7 DAW. I control the NTS-1 from the Pi desktop with Oscar RC's NTS-1 Web Editor app that includes an excellent sequencer. The beauty of the NTS-1 is that it also has an analogue input allowing you to use the effects section as a stereo effects pedal if you have line level signals available. I use that to add effects to a PO-32 Tonic that's synced up to the NTS-1. My setup is sod all use for live performances, but great for putting together multitrack noodlings at home.

[@MrSlipstreem]

I forgot to say, Oscar RC's app allows you to save out and load an infinite number of patches as well as storing an instantly accessible bank of up to 16 patches. Each patch can be any possible combination of oscillator and effects settings, so that's potentially billions of different sounds at your fingertips. There's also a "Randomize" feature that randomises all NTS-1 oscillator and effects selection and parameters at the click of a button. You can then manually tweak whatever pops up to tailor it into something more to your liking and save that out as a patch. It's the kind of flexibility I wished the NTS-1 had out-of-the-box, and now it has it via Oscar RC's NTS-1 Web Editor.

[@en3970]

Most people don't buy so much small stuff in such a short time like you did. There lies the problem.

[@Justin.Franks]

Exactly. You should start with only the absolute essentials, and then add stuff over time as you discover your specific needs that your current setup cannot handle.

[@gdr189]

Yes true, there is no right setup, there is only a right one for each person, and you wont know until you find a need / gap or areas you need to boost up. Also, there is a reason that DAW based production took off, it is economical in comparison. However, there is a third path after DAW and DAW-less, and that is Multi-track (or loopers). By recording parts as you go, you reduce the range of equipment needed, down to 1 or 2 synths really. Take those stems and mix those down, you could even record the fx for each onto another stem, reusing the fx unit for each stem. Or more realistically, take it into your PC and chop the files up.

[@Matt-zp1jn]

@@gdr189 Yes thats a great way to arrange, produce, and perform. The Multitrack / Many Looper workflow is one I’ve considered too in contrast to a DAW like Ableton/Studio One, or going DAW-less etc. 👍

[@Wheramai]

🎯 I can't afford to have GAS, on my limited income I have to justify research and seriously save up for any addition to my studio, if it has made the cut then it's already passed the acid test and I've already studied the manual and have ideas for how it will integrate. The only reason Ive ever possessed items of gear I am unfamiliar with is when I inherited items after someone's passing.

[@inperfectsequence7840]

I do everything with an MS-20 TR 8S and a TD-3, I also use a Tascam Model 12 mixer as an audio interface for my MacBook Pro. I make hiphop and 90s house, I use samples on the TR-8S This thing is my machine for playing loops and mixing live, it's also my tool for creating my songs from improvisations with samples and synthesis or classic sounds. In my way of making music, individual audio tracks are important, all tracks are edited and recorded simultaneously in Logic Pro. And I don't have a lot of new equipment, I don't really need it, the MS 20 already gives me all the analog sound I like and the rest I only need to play live and create songs more or less with an initial idea of ​​an arrangement, sometimes the music asks you where to change or what sounds to mute for a better atmosphere within the song. These are the things that work for me when I record everything simultaneously. I look for the musical benefit of improvisation, letting myself go with what sounds without looking at a screen and letting myself go, knowing that if something goes wrong everything is there to edit it in the arrangement. Greetings and thanks for the video.

[@6581punk]

I've been on this journey. Settled for an Akai MPC Live 2. I want something I can just switch on and use in the living room. Battery and built in speakers (which are decent enough sounding) mean no faffing about with wires. With the latest MPC 3 Beta it's improved quite a lot over the v2 with a linear arranger. However, the Akai Force is better (I have one of these too), the clip workflow suits me better as do all the buttons. It's just that requires plugging in and wearing headphones.

[@dj-cyr3nt]

I think this is a great approach - you can sample or record from other hardware as you go, reduces the need to have everything hooked up all at once with audio/midi cables and patch bays and mixers. At some point I want to do LoFi tracks and use a sampler and field recorder for inspiration.

[@baltimorebjj]

MPCs also have a great set of Vsts, plus they are nearly unlimited once you start manipulating samples. Such a wonderful little all in one box that gets you off the computer and away from the habits and distractions that come with that.

[@TheScreamingFrog916]

My problem with using my MPC One, is the steep learning curve, and amount of fiddling it requires, to do even the simplest of tasks. I really want to like it, because it is so powerful, and has lots of hardware features that make using it with external keyboards, Midi devices, and Eurorack, a possibility. But every time I sit down with it to make some tracks, I get distracted and tired by the workflow, so I loose my inspiration and give up. Still have it, but it is collecting dust. I am hoping that the new Ver. 3 firmware update, will make it a better experience. Meanwhile I got into the Elektron devices and have found them much easier for me to have fun with. Started with the Model Cycles, then got the Syntakt for more features, and now have added a Digitakt 2, which is amazing. I think if you have the time and money, it is best to try everything, to see what clicks with your brain, and personal style of music creation. For me, just reading and looking at KZbin videos, was not enough to decide. I had to try them for myself to really know.

[@noelsharp]

I have the Live 2 and the Force as well. Fantastic machines!

[@hvhvgitaar]

I get your point. I just sold my beloved hydrasynth and microfreak and used the money to pay for most of my new MPC Key 37, which is effectively a mini workstation. Life is just a lot simpler and I can focus on writing music instead of combining different bits of kit and I can even plug in a mike or guitar. My Behringer model D and Roland MC-101 are probably going soon as well…

[@chinering23]

I'm looking for a model D, they are £166 on andertons atm.

[@Autistic_Artist]

You have no idea how relevant this video is as I've always been a hardware person since the turn of the century until about a decade ago when my old school gear just became old and broken while my visual art became more popular until the analog resurgence and actual content teaching how to make the sounds and use the gear got me back in. But in the past few days dusting off my friends gear and merging with my own is actually overwhelming. I've spent days just figuring out how to lay them out and get them to communicate properly has been daunting. But after watching this video it helped me focus as the thought of all these different boxes working together is so much more inspiring than one machine doing everything. It's difficult for me to put into words but It feels right.

[@knmyak]

I have been throu all that stuff in my life too. Now I only need my DGX670 for all my music. I know you had one to. You may need the toys for your channel but hardly for your music. Keep on rockin. It is fun to follow anyway.

[@steveeagermusic]

I've been looking at that keyboard myself. It looks terrific. Do you find it difficult having only the headphone jack as an out to a mixing board for extra amplification? I tried using the headphone out on my current Yamaha keyboard, and it seemed like it sounded fine. Not stereo, but I am not worrying too much about that as long as the sound quality is good.

[@knmyak]

@@steveeagermusic I use a little headfone mixer and then I can deal the signal to other device as headfone and amps as I like. It works very well for me.

[@RutgerS.]

DAW and Akai MPC Key 37 user here. Great to have it all in one device if you don't want to be behind a computer! Bought my son a Roland JD-Xi and he is having the time of his life with four layers (2 digital synths, 1 analog and a drum layer with all the famous Roland drums).

[@DonLuca27]

This really struck home for me, as it is the *exact* adventure I went through in my music making journey. I started with lots and lots of gear and then threw it all out of the window (well, not literally, I sold them of course) and just got a Yamaha MOXF6, powered by a USB Powerbank and that was it. I never looked back. The only thing I added was a small cheap sampler connected via MIDI so I could integrate "real world" sounds (real piano, guitar, voice, etc.) into my tracks. But that was it really. All those little boxes are great to show on KZbin and make views, but if I had to get down and actually make music, a good keyboard workstation is what I really need. Thanks for the video!

[@covett]

I’ve found my minimalistic setup the most convenient. It’s always on and ready to go: MacBook with Logic, MIDI keyboard, USB/Thunderbolt hub, audio interface, microphones, headphones, and the several guitars. 🎉

[@PastTime777]

Work station guy. Gig in two tribute bands. Korg 01W and Hammond XK-2, Mackie mixer, JBL Eon speaker. Yamaha ModX7+ is my backup. Sometimes I’ll set it up and have all 3 on stage because I like the Rhodes sounds it has. I practice on a Rhodes 88 soft shell that’s in perfect condition.

[@funnzie]

Your arguments for a workstation had me doubting myself with your elegant reasoning. But first we must divide studio recording and live play, I would NEVER have my synth studio for live play. The only instrument I play live is solo acoustic piano, and I don't bring it with me, whatever is on stage that is what I have to make sound good. So let's just talk about studio recording. I have 17 musical electronic instruments for orchestrating songs. Each one hand picked and researched for years before buying. Each one has their job to do. Next, I only record Vangelis style; the entire song in one take using as many as 17 instruments. I have a floor full or pedals to control them all, plus very precise MIDI connections too. Then when both my hands and feet are busy playing music, I use powerful pattern sequencers (not stupid step sequencers) to add in what all my limbs cannot do. So why not in the box or a workstation? All the songs I compose have custom sounds I design on the synths, custom rhythms too, just for that song. Sound design on a workstation is a pain, menus take 10x longer or more to design a new sound than a knob per function (NPF) synth. Plus, I enjoy sound designing but hate it on menus. The other reason is my studio is far more versatile than one or a bunch or workstations; with monaural and poly analog, digital polys, the perfect sampler, a high-end digital piano, and a sequencer no workstation has. I have 20 floor pedals to control my studio, you're lucky to have 3 pedals on a workstation. And as you said, each instrument is absolutely perfect for its job. I don't run out of polyphony either, the last workstation I bought when I took it out of the box and played the first patch like a piano it ran out of notes even with 256. Know your equipment, I am getting old, 67 years now, and to keep my brain sharp I continue to challenge myself with a deep understanding of every one of my 17 instruments. This year I took on Kurzweil VAST, and a new arranger which I use to write my own custom styles for each song, very challenging indeed, but I never give up even when there seems to be no hope. So, I spend years getting to know my synths and already know which synth I am going to use to make the sound in my head. I can design the sound in my head too, before sitting down to actually make it. That can only be done with deep understanding. Half my time is education and learning and the other half making music, so instead of watching movies or playing games, I watch instructional videos and read manuals. The studio never changes, once fine-tuned for position of instruments and routing, it doesn't change. This way I know without marking anything which mixer channel each synth is, which effects is routed, which keyboard is remotely MIDI controlling another. Each instrument is position perfectly (ergonomically) for both programming and performance, so no body contortions and pain. The joy of recording an entire orchestration live in one take, without multi-tracking, is difficult to explain, this Vangelis style of recording is all I do now, and all I want to do! Can you imagine the power of being in the middle of a complex orchestration and controlling it all, every note is in the moment and fully immersed. I am in Heaven during the recording/performance, and I hope it shows in the songs.

[@dj-cyr3nt]

I've been to electronic type of concerts for years, and I don't think I've seen one that didn't use DAT or some other way of performing, but some sytnhs on stage for manual use, or maybe in some cases, just for show.

[@kostisv]

Kudos for the dedication. I resonate with your approach. Only one question. Why not multitracking? Why not give yourself the chance to go and correct something in the recording if needed?

[@funnzie]

@@kostisv I multi-tracked for overdubbing for decades, it was how it was done. I still multi-track but all the tracks are filled at the same time, I have a 32 channel analog mixer subbed down to 4 stereo channels that input into a hardware 24 track SD recorder. I have been working with 8 inputs and 8 tracks, but my old Zoom R24 is getting old and may replace it with a 20 track/input Zoom SD, then I will much more control over the one-take recording for mixdown. This Vangelis style one-take recording allows me to be in the moment and fully immersed in the song, all emotions are captured.

[@gerotone]

I like to use dedicated instruments for a specific task or sound that I think of. In this case everything has its role and you know what to reach for when you make music. Having two devices that can basically do a similar thing or sound I try to prevent otherwise you will think more than making music which one you should use in your setup. Knowing the strengths of each instrument is also a great to know. But in other times you can break this rule and be creative and discover new sounds. Using multiple instruments is often better and than having one single instrument that does almost everything.

[@samalcis]

A couple of other arguments for a DAWless setup: 1. It’s nice to have to physically look at all the gear you have in order to inspire you. The ARP2600 patch points, the knobs on a Minimoog, the sequencer on the JX-08, they all stare back at you and beg to be played with. 2. A workstation is like a genie in a bottle that imposes few to no limitations. A DAWless setup is like an ensemble cast, where you are forced to make choices on who to include in the play and what role each should play.

[@Hammerman48]

I started out on reel to reel and then 4 track cassette then digital hard drive recorders. Now I use Logic Audio and I haven’t looked back. It’s by far the best system for me. I’m a guitarist and for piano and synth sounds I do use Logic sounds…..but you have to be creative.

[@shogunai]

There is a lot of validity to whats said here. But most serious producers I know have both something to fill workstation catagory - either a workstation itself or just a full DAW suite which obviously offers a lot more capabilities than a workstation, and then a full array of synth/sampler/drum machines/FX flavours. Because that is what they are, flavours. Without trying to be rude, this video comes across as something for people who want to stay firmly in the hobbiest/prosumer category of musician. You're not supposed to buy these instruments and set them up every time you use them and then pack them away again into a cupboard only to be used 6 months later again. They are designed to go into a music studio and be used by musicians who know how to use them. And be set up in a place where they will be used regularly. If you dont have the space, time or knowledge to use these, then of course you should buy a wokstation or a DAW and keyboard and just patter away. But if you want to become a professional electronic musician in 2024, and develop your own sound, then learning how to use synthesisers, samplers, drum machines and FX is basically essential.

[@DJGenki]

This. Literally all of this. I have a bunch of 80s/90s synths on racks with rack mount units, that go into my mixer which goes into my PC. Then I have some vsts in a DAW. When I need a DW8000 sound, I go to it and use it. It’s all hooked up for when I want the particular sound. I’m not sure why this evades so many KZbinrs but you -can- have both. The middle ground seems to be finding ways to make it all one cohesive system that you pull from because you look at it like a giant artistic palate. No studio I know stores away synths and drags them out begrudgingly. They’re there for a specific purpose.

[@drsynthpattern]

I have been thinking the same thing. Im on the same boat! 😅 was thinking about the AKAI mpc key 61 if thats on par with the fantom 6 and the Montage?

[@peterjessop1878]

I’m predominantly a guitarist who plays live so I understand the draw of lots of small boxes. When I got into synths I similarly bought quite few too, but I have pared that back a bit now. It’s about having a system that works for you. In the studio I run an MPC as a recording and quick idea device and a MODx as a main keyboard. Then I just have a few boxes that do things the main keyboard can’t. eg a wavestate and a couple of small analogue synths. I have loads of outboard effects and these are used to make sound design more individual. All of this can be taken out to perform if needs be.

[@xp50player]

I’m a workstation guy, but I can appreciate having guaranteed polyphony dedicated to each of your desktop devices, instead of hoping you have enough in a workstation between all your tracks.

[@zoomosis]

Gear Acquisition Syndrome is definitely a thing, but at our age I feel a $6,000 collection of instruments isn't a big deal. Not if you consider it's only roughly $200 per year for each year of our adult lives. I spend far more each year just keeping my car running, and I don't drive a lot. Plus a lot of music gear tends to hold its value, to a degree. Decent guitar pedals, classic synths, etc. So it's not money down the drain. It can feel like a waste if it ends up sitting on the shelf but sometimes it's just nice to know it's there when you feel like using it.

[@dj-cyr3nt]

Yeah I mean, how much do you spend if you're into golf or a hunter? I bet you could get up there on that as well lol

[@grandfallooner41]

One single ticket to one single concert on the current Taylor Swift tour costs more than a Sequential Take 5

[@AdamElteto]

​@@grandfallooner41 Zing! This is a perfect place for me to make a slightly unrelated comment that this is why I support smaller acts that I really like and they are really talented and work hard. Those that perform at smaller venues and even with fees and taxes and all, the ticket is like $37. Big acts get enough money, I love to support the "underdogs". Talking about synths, I "splurged" on a front row center for $100 for Tangerine Dream, and with Steve Roach as guest, the whole band in front of me, it was a great experience. You do not get the feeling of being just one in 40,000 in the crowd. Let's think about that. HALF of the original Queen costs $800, and "working class hero" Bruce Springsteen costs $1,500. Support the underdogs, and buy a synth, you will feel much more accomplished!

[@Tezzer-nz1]

For me its not the cost in $$$ terms, but rather the opportunity cost of making music when knowing and manipulating your gear well. Also the time spent searching for gear, selling gear, packing gear and going the post office. I like looking at GearTube as much as the next person, but I wonder wtf we are all doing really. Consumerism on steroids.

[@6AlchemicalDragons]

Do you still have your MODX? I still have mine and I love it. I know it's not a montage, but it's close enough for me.

[@MusicOfDreamweaver]

I think the workstation vs dedicated synths comes much down to preference. I've had fun with the Motif back in the day, I've owned a few Roland workstation and I own a few synths now as well. The most important aspect for me is workflow. Using a workstation doesn't inspire me to create new sounds. It might be able to do anything, but it is always alot of menu-diving and it isn't as intuitive as "knob-per-function" synth. Still have an old XV as aworkstation alibi none then less. But a grand pluss for the DAWless setup, regardsless of which variaty you choose: You don't have to fear that the software support will stop!!

[@FrancisMaxino]

I reserve using computer DAWs for studio recording but all my live music is programmed patches for specific songs on my Korg Workstation where i really only use computer live for lyrics and some pre-recorded backings.

[@barryward7633]

Thank you for going to all the effort to make this episode, much appreciated Woody cheers.

[@russisaac813]

Amazing post Woody, I've followed you for many years now, but this one really made me laugh out loud. It's like you were talking directly to me! I've been a collector of synths since before Midi was thrown at us, I have all the early Yamaha gear, from the Qx1, Rx17, Rx5, Tx7's, and all incarnations that followed. Then I moved to Korg and Roland, Even got a Gr700, My collection of hardware sequencers is a sight to behold, 2 months ago I spent another £750 on a couple of Roland mini synths.I had to have them but I have not even taken them out of thier boxes yet! My wife doesn't Understand me. I have a Roland Fantom and it is spiffing, but I always feel the need to back it up with maybe some synth bass from an old Mt100 or maybe some brightness from a Dx7. Am I a lost cause? Please help me man, If I go to a local open mic, I just take the Fantom, but I feel restricted. If I work with my band I want to take everything, but that would take maybe two days just to set up for a 2 hour gig! It's like.."Hello my name is Russ, and I'm a gearaholic". I know its wrong but I just can't help myself! How did you manage to streamline your attic? Crikey, your room used to be packed solid. Bloody hell, You made me laugh tonight.

[@CrimzanViper]

For me I have the yamaha montage m8x, great sounds in one unit but I can understand why some opt for multiple units ,depends on what you want from playing music

[@marcelobalbuena8990]

Very honest analysis as usual Woody I think there are users for all possible combinations. I come from old fashion synths and workstadions like Roland W30 and XP50. After quite a long break I came back to music production with DAWs and MIDI controllers, as a hobby. It was a learning curve and a new world to discover. Once I felt I was bored of having to turn on a computer to play, I added gears: A Fantom 06, a Digial piano, a Digial Drumset, even a Yamaha finger drum. Then found that I don't have enough time to learn and practice all that stuff. I'm always tempted to buy something new, gear or vst, but I learned from the experience. Fantom 06 is still a world to discover to me. It almost intimidates me with the thouthands of presets, scenes, tones and options. So won't go for more gear until I learn or sell things I don't use.

[@udiorockmeamadeus]

I just bought Arturias Vintage softsynth, including arp2600, yamaha cs-80, prophet v, cmi, synclavier, ms-20.. $300 on the black friday setup for my mac mini m4.. Arturia offered me $50 crossgrades to FX 5 and pigments. Yes if you get the $300 vintage synth you get all their effects modules for $50 extra.. and pigments their multifaceted synth.. . I'm shopping for a slider/knob controller..

[@kostisv]

check out faderfox

[@ShineRecordings]

I agree that using hardware as a sketching and inspiration tool is a great idea. However, finalizing songs will typically happen in-the-box (software).

[@bsa2025]

I love both. Having physical instruments but recording on a daw. Im not that old so when I had 15 years old I started in FL studio. First used DAW and then started with real instruments.

[@marcus268]

The secret is a central sequencer. You setup synth patches always the same - i.e. the synth gets modulation wheel to modify the sound, then the central sequencer sends the automation of the mod wheel to the synth, this way you control all of these little boxes. You could do that with NI Maschine, but i run with a Squarp Hapax, its like having Abelton Live for HW. I was tempted by montage myself, so i can understand the way you think about it - but then you have to deal with all the setup menus of the sounds, and while it allows a lot of customization, the process didnt look fun. I personally have the most fun, when i do sound design, and combine a hybrid approach i.e. i do stuff in the DAW, which i then put into a sampler (atmospheres, complex rythmic ideas) , and play over this stuff with live instruments i control from hapax. I too saw videos from modular guys operating walls of modules, but one guy said - its all about the sequencer and if you can connect with it. For a setup you have to put away every time a more compact solution surly makes sense in your case - i did rent a band room, and play with other guys, so we can meet and have fun with music, the cost can be shared between the guys, not sure if you have something around your area to do the same.

[@jaibhimadevi5805]

Probably the most efficient for me (in terms of composing/finishing multitrack songs) was back when I used Cakewalk Music Creator 2003, a MIDIman 61-key controller, and an XV-5050. Before that, EZVision (old Mac) and an M1 to cassette ;)

[@dictabeat]

Tedious or not, I love the hardware and modular synth setups as well as the MPC workflow. Workstations take all the fun out of it for me, but I can understand how it is an amazing tool for studio producers.

[@MartinMartin-xm8xs]

I love the workstation set-ups I've had several over the years (Triton , Karma, Emax2 etc) accompanied by multiple stand alone devices. That was when I had a dedicated area for my studio. Since getting married and having kids I don't have the space for all that. My biggest factor to my music set up now is portability. I love using my sp404mk2 as the brains and being able to sample in any sounds I want to use. It has good enough effects to tweak things how I want. I can take it anywhere. Thanks for the video!

[@freddiesamples]

I'm all in with variety. Hardware, software, analog, digital, sampler, computer and workstations. Love to experiment with all of it. Too many synths, not enough time! Great video, thank you.

[@pascalschwaller7573]

I‘m kind of where you are, I have a ton of devices but I‘m now trying out going virtual with a laptop and (very light) midi keyboards. I started using Gig Performer and it‘s mindblowing how flexible this is. There was so far always a solution no matter how complex my requirements were. I will use it soon with an 80s band cover band and I can route and layer my sounds with endless possibilities and achieve it within seconds. The drawback is having to have a laptop, then you need a USB-Hub. You also need to be very careful to have your external hard drive well and securely connected to your laptop. So, like you. I‘m still exploring what will work best for me.

[@rubenzemog]

i fully agree, the simplest the better, my current setup is Digitakt 2, OB6 and Prophet Rev2, just that. I sold everything else.

[@jamesedinger4956]

I've tried different approaches over the years. My current method is using a workstation and adding additional sounds, where necessary from hardware module synths...like using condiments. Much easier than hooking up 15 different units. Tried the DAW and plugin approach for a while but never really bonded with it emotionally. There's a real advantage to the VST approach, though and I believe that's the direction that most pros will adopt. For now, I enjoy the physicality of hardware for sound generation and use the computer to record and manipulate audio tracks. I've also learned to only buy new gear if it can give me something I can't get from my current stuff. Nobody needs five different virtual analog devices, for instance. At that point, you're just a collector, not a synthesist. Some of my best work came from taking things away from the mix instead of adding.

[@asva-media]

Would a korg kross 2 be able to replace these as well?

[@mirllewist3086]

Honestly I always get a lot of great creative energy from Reason. Yeah it’s old, but it does everything and sounds great to me

[@SeenfromSpace]

The economical dawless method is to have a small number of compact multitimbral boxes with onboard FX. Cabling and MIDI is then quite manageable. And recall of presets isn’t too painful! My live rig is now: Roland SH4-d Elektron Digitone Dreadbox Typhon (mono but with gorgeous FX) I’m done with separate FX boxes and using MIDI program changes to match each synth voice. Musically very effective, but hard work!

[@SeenfromSpace]

PS each box has its own sequencer, which can modify the synth voices as they play. Very powerful! BTW with a Montage you needn’t sound just like any other person with a Montage. It has deep sound design capacity and it’s perfectly possible to carve out a personal “sound”, though it’s a lot of work!

[@micinput]

Others have said something similar but my immediate first thought was that workstations have a color; all the sounds share certain circuits or algorithms, for example. It’s not as bad now as the workstations of the late 80s, of course, but it’s like having a paint set that only paints in bouncy, pleasing pastels or only paints with lovely deep rich jewel tones, it’s still going to lack balance. By mixing in sounds from different sources you can balance that out, making it richer and more complex. And, as you said, more unique to you.

[@scottk3292]

I personally have found that the sound coming from VSTs sounds a bit muffled on the high end. I find that I get much crisper and lively sound from my hardware synths. I used to have an old Ross (bucket brigade) flanger, and found a way to make it act more like a chorus or comb filter, and it did amazing things to my guitar sound! It died a few years ago, and I've never found a VST flanger or programmable echo, or even the modern digital hardware flangers, that comes anywhere close. I believe that all hardware has its own sound and characteristics, but convenience is also important when composing. Like everything else, it all depends on your needs. As for me, when a salesman tells me that their new digital emulation processor is just like analog, and can replace most any audio circuit, I just walk away.

[@s56hqr222]

I only spend my free time on a computer or making music, but for some reason unknown to me, I refuse to mix the two. Great video!!

[@touchthatdial]

Woody, I think you’re making this out to be a lot more complex than it needs to be. The secret is to have no more gear than you need to make the sounds you want. The old adage that ‘all you need to make great electronic music is a drum machine, a synth and a sampler’ is an example of what I mean. There are similar truisms for other genres. My approach is to buy a small amount of high quality gear that I know will cover a lot of bases musically and then learn the gear inside out. Hooking it all up is no challenge at all if your setup is focused and you understand the kit you’re connecting. I think the underlying message of your video is that GAS kills creativity, which is spot on IMO. But this isn’t a DAWless vs workstation vs 100% ITB thing, it’s about being smart in buying and using gear properly I think.

[@markymark627]

roland mc307 sp808 and jx305, thats all ive been using recently, yes i record into the pc ableton etc but other than that all the work is done on the equipment , i did have a zoom multitrack but its stopped working hence record out into the pc . great videos as always woody keep posting them .

[@jaggass]

I have a Kurzweil K2600X but im going down the Dawless route as i have a Roland CR-78, Upright Piano, TC M300 fx unit, mixer etc.

[@synthsoniq]

Everything you said makes sense. All good points. Personally, I prefer a "hybrid" approach which combines the best features of a lot of the various options. Most of my sounds and playing are done on individual hardware synths (both full-size and the smaller modules) in a small studio in the corner of my house. I do basic song creation, sequencing and arranging on a Novation Circuit Tracks which has a couple of internal synth engines and a drum machine, but can also drive four external synths via MIDI. I can quickly and easily sketch out ideas on the Circuit Tracks anywhere in the house, and then bring it over to the synths for a more custom sound that only the synths can produce. I use a small Zoom R4 multitrack digital audio recorder to record the various parts of the song, and I bring those digital audio files into Ableton on the PC to complete the arrangement and finish the track. At any point, I can use the individual parts of this setup just for fun, or I can combine them as described above. It's the perfect setup for how I like to create music.

[@dj-cyr3nt]

Agree with this - also if you love to do sound design I think it's great to have a synth right there to work on patches whenever you get a chance - it's always just there to power up and try something.

[@synthsoniq]

@@dj-cyr3nt Exactly. We might turn on a synth and just do a little sound design for 45 minutes, and sometimes that patch might inspire a whole track to work on later.

[@synthsoniq]

@@dj-cyr3nt By the way, the DJ mixes on your KZbin channel are incredible. The two recent ones from the last couple of days are exactly my favorite type of music. Thanks for sharing those!

[@dj-cyr3nt]

@@synthsoniq Thank you so much, do you have music you would like to share also? Always love to listen to what artists are doing.

[@synthsoniq]

@@dj-cyr3nt Your mixes are so good, I saved them to my KZbin playlist to play again later. Subscribed too. I haven't uploaded / shared any music yet because I only recently started "mastering" my music to make it sound decent on other speakers, sound systems, and streaming platforms. (I realized without that step, they sound good on my setup, but not great elsewhere). Once I get a few tracks mastered, I'm sure I'll start posting them to my channel. Thanks again for sharing those awesome mixes.

[@paulmanningremixes6408]

I’m with you Woody dear boy. I’ve been making music for decades, and over the last 10 or so years have found myself retreating, quite comfortably I might add, more and more into “The box” as they say. I’ve owned and worked with all manner of equipment over the years, but the hassles and headaches you speak of are all too real, and it’s just so much more enjoyable having everything in one place, like a workstation or dedicated computer set up

[@billiedoesbeats]

I think if you have a bunch of stuff, you gotta just buckle down and take a few days to learn how to set them all up together in a space where you don’t have to switch things in and out. I did this with my setup: MPC One, SP404mk2, Ableton Move, Teenage Engineering KO2, launchkey 37, and MacBook Pro using Ableton. Everything is set up and Now I just turn it all on and run it through Ableton and make music straight into Ableton. No extra cables or cords or machines stored away…just exactly what I need and nothing more. I think there’s a lot of restraint needed to keep a workflow that doesn’t swallow you alive with options. Especially when there’s so many cool things coming out. Restraint LOL

[@hafstrat]

Great thought provoking vid well delivered. 👍🏼I need neither a workstation nor a sack full of synths. A sequential pro 3 se, Arthuria micro freak, iPad with cubasis 3, a handful of carefully selected soft synths and effects apps is : 1) reasonably affordable, 2) top drawer analogue and digital sounds, 3) awesome DAW for capturing, arranging. Mixing, mastering and sharing, 4) takes a small amount of drawer too since discs in the spare bedroom so can be left set up permanently, 5) expandable if I get spare cash. 6) little menu diving and more than enough controls to give hands on gratification to help facilitate creativity. I had a qs300 back in the day. Didn’t need general Midi / emulations of traditional instruments, or all the menu work. ❤

[@longlostrobots8146]

I spent the last five years of my 25 years setting up my Dawless setup . I will say I’m at the point where it really doesn’t make sense to get more hard ware . At least for a while . I’m leaning to a daw controller with software that I can finish off my songs after I bring them into logic

[@hughman8597]

At the beginning I tried to control my Korg Volcas and Arturias Micro Brute via FL STUDIO and almost went crazy. Back then (I don't know if it's still the case today) FL sent a command that the Volcas didn't like, I think when you pressed play it sent a stop all command beforehand, something like that. And so the Volcas were always out of sync. I love FL Studio, but that's why I switched to Ableton when I want to record. BUT what I personally enjoy most is sitting down in front of my 5-10 small machines and starting from scratch. Just jam and start again next time!

[@synthfluencer]

You can also have this discussion for many other topics. Should I use an classical bike or an e-bike? Should I buy a car or rather use a car sharing service? And, when I buy a car, rather a modern car or a classic car? For me, the answer is, it depends on what do you want to achieve. If you want to use a bike to simply get from point A to point B , an e-bike should be the better choice. If you're enjoy screwing and tinkering on mechanics, you'd rather buy a classic car. If you want to produce electronic music, you get on very well with a Arturia Keylab 88 MKII and Analog Lab. Or any other DAW/ production suite. Developing a synth setup containing single components is about exploring electronics, to enjoy working with limits, to experiment with effect chains, routings, sequencers and all the guff. I've learned over the years that this kind of things really bring me joy and fun and I don't regret a single purchase (OK there were some fails but I've sold everything that didn't work for me ).

[@leftmono1016]

I like having lots of hardware because each one is inspiring in its own way. The last track I made was jammed on hardware, to get the basic structure, but transferred to Ableton for final arrangement and mastering. Worked like a charm 👍

[@FKiMusic]

We have the same problem

[@Maluband]

Disregarding all other things, arrangers/workstations with speakers in are easier to set up and use, therefore get more use. As I like to use keyboards in different places in the house. Sometimes in the office, sometimes in the living room etc.

[@CraigRodmellMusic]

My philosophy is that the best instruments to make music with are the ones you actually HAVE, not the ones you WISH you had. What I have, is kind of a hybrid. I have two keyboards, a Roland RD-2000 and JV-80. I take these to gigs. Then I have four MIDI sound modules, including a JV-1080. These stay set up in my Music Room, ready to use. At one time, I took these to gigs, but the RD-2000 eliminated the need to do that. Then I have BBCSO Core, which only exists in my DAW, enabling me to do orchestral composition, which was not practical with my other gear. The sheer fact that I'm broke means I simply HAVE to make the best use of what I have. Gear acquisition syndrome just simply isn't a factor.

[@stevehofer3482]

My first hardware synth purchase in 30 years was a Casio CTS-500. It is a surprisingly powerful synthesizer in a compact home keyboard form factor. The competing Yamahas and Roland’s are also good. Combined with an iPad you have a ton of music making options.

[@Jiglo71]

Great video. There's so much overlap with my gear these days that i'm wanting to offload a lot of gear to simplify my life and make more room in the house too, but there's a lot of fun in using each piece of gear and exploring new sounds, sometimes even in the learning process itself and that keeps things interesting.

[@jackthetrader1993]

i feel you... it depends. i still have my 15 synths incl virus TI. but use korg nautilus only now for simplicity. for future special project, we will need particular unique synth / machine workflows..especially in live performance only.

[@doordedeur]

Where have the 19 inch rack-units gone? All those desktop boxes aren't easy to integrate in a live-setup. So I've gone for the Roland Fantom route.

[@hawedehre]

For me playing only in live bands, I am very pleased with my Yamaha Genos only. Before I had Tyros 4 and 1. I have presets for all songs stored for quick switching between songs with sound and transpose. Before a Technics KN1000 and Korg M1 😅 If I only need Piano for e.g church I have a Roland GoPiano because it is light. These stay stay in their bags. For playing at home and for my children I recently got a Korg B2 and JBL studio monitors, which sounds great with the Korg module app on tablet. Thanks and gettings 🍀👍❤️🎸🎹

[@gadeu2724]

English is not my language. According to me, dawless video never show how hard it is to just program a melody on your sequencer. You allways have to go to your computer, to download your melody, and play it. I sell progressively all my gears. Cheap or free vst, with my old pc, is enoigh for me. Influencers have done good jobs. I have bought useless gear. Thank you for your video. Your way to speak is perfect for me. It s clear.

[@tperelli4271]

I start with the PSR-SX920 arranger as the foundation, then add Montage to build upon, put it all into Cubase which equals no stress. I went the Native Instruments and Arturia route and too many software control issues for me.

[@Yu_Sheo]

DAW is fine for me. I started with Cubase and a lot of gear in the 90s. Now I can do way more than I could with all that gear but with a nice, minimal set up and a fraction of the cost.

[@aloharay]

Agreed, for a studio setup I gave up on all the small stuff and now just use one higher priced hardware keyboard and everything else I use my Maschine and various VSTs on a laptop.

[@acrolyte80]

For my "daily driver" sounds, what works is the standalone no-host-or-daw acoustic samples VTines Mk 1 for rhodes, using a split Yamaha YC controller keyboard, with lowest 12 notes midi controlling an oldy/goody Roland xp30 electric bass for left hand bass. For drums, a programmable patterns Alesis sr 18. And for B3 playing, also standalone vst, acoustic samples B5 v2 vst. First rate rhodes, bass, B3, drum sounds with minimal startup steps on the computer.

[@geminikrav]

The story of my last year. Fortunately I have bought the gear used. Cost me until now about 2000 euro (cables,mixer,soundcards included). I stayed in Elektron family just to keep up with the learning proccess. I "forced" my self to use them almost daily not to forget everything that I know. Also I forced my self to stop buy any other gear, since what I already have its more than enough tp produce what I want and to have hours of exploration and fun. It needs to have limits on this hobby or else u will loose financially and in creativity. But its so difficult to stop😜! I feel you my man!

[@DJCJ999]

I feel your pain! I bought groove boxes because I didn’t have a clue how to use DAW’s and there were no buttons or knobs for instant feedback… but now.. after years of buying gear and fiddling I am starting to move more into software because for one I understand more and more for two it’s a hell of a lot neater.. still… there is so much DAW stuff that it spins your head so like you I have been increasingly more interested in workstations. If I was to sell off all my hardware I’d probably be able to afford a good one and maybe have a little left over for one little groovebox gadget :)

[@randallharp7010]

In the late 80s, I had an MMT-8 hardware sequencer driving a Roland D-10. In 1990, I replaced the hardware sequencer with Cakewalk running on a 386SX PC. Today, I have a Roland XP-30 that I use for playing live, but I fancy myself as more of a composer than a performer -- so a DAW with nearly 800 plugins (VIs and FX) is my preference. Takes up little space. few cables, and no dusting. Although I backup regularly, I am always aware of the fragility of digital assets. While I "own" (technically license) many synths and drum machines, they're not tangible and have no real resale value.

[@KierDarby]

Worth noting that if you want all the acoustic sounds from the Montage, Yamaha Seqtrak is currently on special offer everywhere (about £199), and provides the vast majority of those sounds.

[@caleidoscopioliterario9851]

Thinking on what did you say , maybe would be interesting to make a choice to Casio XWP1!

[@mirkomontaldo]

Do not fully agree, altough this is a valuable consideration. I have Circuit Tracks connected with a couple of HW Gears and it works fine. Full dawless. You cannot do everything of course but live jams are ok.

[@milosmokic5536]

What is the maintenance cost for all that gear?

[@genaro-l6q]

Great analysis, thank you! Could you help me with something unrelated: I have a SafePal wallet with USDT, and I have the seed phrase. (alarm fetch churn bridge exercise tape speak race clerk couch crater letter). What's the best way to send them to Binance?

[@chriscopeman8820]

My summer setup is my Novation SL MK3 and my iPad with AUM and some apps. Works great and it’s cheap. I also have Ableton, a push2. Lately an Mc707. Lot’s of learning curves and grinding mental gears but that’s probably good for my old brain. Great hobby and cheaper than scuba diving (also loads of fun).

[@thegood9]

Good comparison. Yeah, I have tried it both ways. I used to have an Oasys, and then a Motif and a Nautilus and a Fantom, but...I just liked having the versatility too much and have gone to more of a modular approach, at least until most recently, when we moved into a newer (and much smaller) home, that doesn't have the space. So...I think I am likely to go back to the ol' workstation setup. Creativity cannot be hindered, and must not be, so speed and ability to get something down trumps ANYTHING else, honestly, when an idea comes down.

[@plusgoodproductions1550]

The DAWless fad is great for hardware companies and that's it. I can understand if were making music 30 years ago and you have all the gizmos but young punks should avoid it like the plague

[@TheLeon1032]

maybe one of the ways to divide this into what works and what doesn't is how peoples attention span is either naturally or through stress and trauma, yrs ago I loved the idea of connecting loads of gear and boxes and adapters and mixers, now Ill have a minor breakdown if something doesn't work and I get nothing done. I suspect the more I work on my life and stress, my attention span will improve. melt down will dissipate

[@The5thVolt]

When I started my DAWless journey I was surprised how much money I spent just on cables! Also I opted to buy two sets of cables and mixers, one which is permanently installed in my studio and one set for travelling to live performances. That said, I never feel inspired by software or menu diving and need patch cables and lots of knobs to discover the sounds I eventually record in a track.

[@deca5002]

I have a steady setup, where I have a Roland MC707 control a system8, system1, Hydrasynth and a behringer TD-3. And I do have the Luxury that they can stay where it is in the room, so it's available when needed to work on any project. Most crucial is the synths connected to the MC707, they all have the option to do program changes via MIDI, so it is possible to to jump from one project to another with all synths setup with the correct patch. I will not acquire any synths without that option, just to make sure i have to reprogram a synth every time I want to play another project. So it can be done,but it does require some synths that do speak MIDI Control fluently .

[@wyshwood]

I use my workstation to guide me as to the structure of the song and roughly the instruments to make that arrangement. It is an immediate medium. However I take the final MIDI recording into the DAW and substitute sounds to make it unique. The convenience of a single keyboard set up out weighs the time I would take setting up templates etc. I find the one keyboard instantly gratifying. Some of the sounds I will keep, others I'll replace, but that's not unlike any other recording in the real world, so I'll stick with my workstation that I have had for over 25 years. Mind you, I still build up the clutter and have hundreds of sounds I never get round to using ;)

[@zoomzoom3950]

I noticed I had this situation too! I had a similar revelation not long ago, and I set about a new plan to reduce the number of keys and synths I have, and do everything I need...so I started to get dedicated keys for each area important to me: At home, I have a dedicated "Keyboard pit" comprised of dedicated instruments: piano (Korg Grandstage X), organ (Crumar Mojo Suitcase), synth (Arturia AstroLab), lead synth (Expressive-E Osmose). This basically covers everything major. I have no plans to upgrade to future piano, organ, or synths - Arturia V Collection has so many options already, and they keep adding more. I'm into organ, so I also have a few other organs; and few keytars. I have a current arranger, and don't plan on upgrading to a next generation; I have a current workstation, and will likely upgrade to a next generation depending on the improvements, feature set, etc. Everything else: mostly modular, semi-modular, miscellaneous. Some I know I'll regret selling. Other than a future workstation, it would have to be something unique, advanced, amazing, etc. that I can't do with what I already have. Cheers!