GEOSynths - Synth Show Reviews - Sequential Prophet 12

www.geosynths.com/prophet12
/ geosynths Synth Patches - www.geosynths.com
Score Board - bit.ly/2TAxdWN
If you like Modulation and lots of possibilities to shape a sound, then take a look at the Prophet 12. Yes, there's been new Synths since it came out in 2013, but it does things that others can't.
So, I get asked the same sort of question over and over, which is "This Synth vs That Synth vs That one". Now I decided to a Sound designers Review of 10 Synths that I have made Banks of Patches for and come up with 5 areas to go over and to to give them a score out of 20, for a final total.
These are:
Features - 16
Workflow - 16
Sound Design - 15
Versatility - 14
Value For money - 13
Prophet 12 gets - 74/100
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[@daniberlanga]

So many people complaining of the sound of this synth... it is one of the greatest pieces of gear I have ever owned. Sounds very special when you compare to other keyboards, it is not just another synth. True you can end up making thin lifeless digital sounds, but I have made some pads in this machine that are so warm and lovely. A keeper for sure.

[@SyncdAlien]

A lovely synth, very luscious tones. 😍Thank you for this exploration, I enjoyed it. 😍

[@SoundtrackAudioCom]

Possibly the best review of this hugely powerful and under rated synth that I've seen, nice one. Had mine almost 7 years now (it's 2021) and I still love it and unlike every other synth I've owned, don't think I'll ever part with it. It can be so so warm and lush IF you know how to program it, it makes you earn it's love but when you do it's such a versatile and usable synth in a mix!

[@misius164]

Excellent review! Very clearly laid out and easy to follow - makes deciding on whether to hunt one down way easier. Many thanks and best from Switzerland!

[@garyturner5204]

Another awesome review of a deep analog/digital synth! You truly go to the sort of depth that helps many of us potential buyers and owners. I was fortunate to get a Prophet 12 LE while they were still available. I love the sound and plan on keeping it indefinitely. :)

[@aiken000]

Seriously amazing reviews. Made for a player, not focused on arps and sequencers. You go in-depth but it's understandable for a sound design beginner! Love the ratings and summaries at the end too. Keep it up man, looking forward to more vids.

[@jammystraub488]

Thank you for making this! After all these years it still sounds completely relevant and possibly the most interesting of the entire Prophet line.

[@michaelkonstantinov7857]

Thx! Very deep sound design and interesting features review, as always. I think that this synthesizer is really directed towards the future. He anticipates the hybrid directions that we see in peak, and especially in summit. By the way, it would be very interesting to see your review on this new synthesizer.

[@bond4177]

YES, a proper P12 review!!

[@paultp12cora24]

Love The Sounds Mate Well Done Keep It Up Rkid

[@Pablo668]

Wow. I think you've demonstrated a very good understanding of the instrument.

[@hartmanneistedter3299]

What a great machine! People say they don't like it because they are too lazy to program themselves....just thinking out loud here. Anyhow great demo! Thanks

[@GEOSynths]

0:40 - Overview. 1:36 - Features. 4:53 - Workflow. 5:30 - Sound Design. 15:30 - Example Patches. 18:52 - Versatility. 19:04 - USP. 19:35 - Dislikes. 20:19 - Summary. 20:28 - Scoring. The score for the Prophet 12 is: Features - 16 Workflow - 16 Sound Design - 15 Versatility - 14 Value For money - 13 Prophet 12 gets - 74/100 Score Board - bit.ly/2TAxdWN

[@1TreukFlyyy]

I really like my P12 ! It sounds more modern that the P6. And as you said, the workflow is great.

[@mikaelschloenzig9590]

17:33 sold it in ,what expressive sound,good work there.

[@VincentPresley]

After getting a Moog One I thought I was done with getting poly synths. Then I decided I would pick up a Prophet but after watching countless videos and comparing specs and over analyzing everything I decided the current P5, 10, and 6 just don't have enough features, lfos, no bi-timbral playing etc. I ended up tracking down one of these discontinued P12s that does more of what I want and saved me a couple grand. Dave has always been one of the more innovative designers and I hope he doesn't get too carried away with the retro / straight reissue trend. I know an Oberheim reissue is in the works but he also hinted at maybe collaborating with Novation which would be really cool.

[@elmosexwhistle]

Thanks for the review GEO. I only buy odd synths, and I can see the P12 fitting in nicely Lol.

[@uyauabing]

5 octaves, a combination of subtractive & FM synthesis through knobs, waveshaping, analog filters & envelopes and more modulation than one could ask for. It's a deep but intuitive synth that's offers so many possibilities, even after 6 years it remains my workhorse.

[@hzalk4952]

Everyone became a synth expert nowadays Thanks for the good review Choose who you follow wisely

[@SouthShoreSonics]

Great stuff! Can you tell me if the Prophet 12 allows for recursive modulation. Also, can you modulate the sustain level with other modifiers such as an LFO, so you can create lag generators? My DSI Mopho SE will only allow for entire envelope levels to be affected, and just the sustain, just like the good ole' Blofeld.

[@astrogerry]

Great ewview !!! Wow .... SUPER like !

[@hagitnadri5517]

yes! thank you, i own the p12 for 3 years and sometimes i enjoy it but i find the sounds very complicated and really want to have a great pads' rich and warm with not too much delays and after touch any patches you can recommend?

[@neonether]

Found a sick deal on reverb I just couldn't pass up. Great demo, I'm super stoked to pick it up!!

[@novalogue]

What did you pay back then?

[@neonether]

@@novalogue $1000 for the module.

[@novalogue]

thats a very good price - in europe they got pretty expensive and rare almost $2000 @@neonether

[@philipvandeusen2490]

Purchased the last keyboard version on Reverb, paid $1850. Great price! Especially with PEs going for 4k

[@daviddigirolamo3310]

Jamie, apologies in advance for another opinion question, but it seems you are a fan of both this and the Take 5. I am deliberating between the two and would really appreciate a ‘nudge’ as I admire/respect your work and opinions.

[@aiken000]

Love these demos! Any idea how the hydrasynth compares to this?

[@javiceres]

Such a solid instrument

[@paulmapp8306]

Tempted with a P12 Module....... I have space for 2 modules on my top tier, and currently have a Peak and a Ti2. Not sure I have the right 2 modules, and maybe another combination will give me a bigger range of sounds. Not sure if the peak or Ti2 would go, and which module to bring in (P12, Rev2, OB6, P6 etc) - I guess that depends what comes in as to which module goes. So confused though.

[@MadelnMachines]

Lovely warm tones. I guess people want that sound naturally / instantly without all of the programming. What are the naturally warmest modern poly synth you've programmed? It seems hard to find modern poly synths that give you a nice bit of warm saturation before the filter. I find with many as soon as you open up the filter your ears start to bleed - very bright and harsh instead of smooth. I really like your reviews as they really demonstrate a synths abilities rather than just mechanically run through the features.

[@InFamousProductions]

I have a DSI pro2, and really want one of these. my finger is on the buy button. Great review on this. I also have a DSI Tempest. I will tell you that DSI gives nothing away, you have to work for every sound. But the time spent pays off. And the machines cut through any mix. I have plenty of other sources for a really fat bottom end. I have on occasion got some really really analogy bass out of it. Just have to find the sweet spots.

[@InFamousProductions]

And your studio is amazing. Can you make a vid on your set up?

[@Angelstarscotland]

sounds great, fab review at a second hand price of 1200 would be a great buy

[@Wrenchfist_Studios]

This is so underrated. Ive had one for a long time and didnt think I liked it that much because the stock presets were kind of meh. But it actually has a pretty killer filter IMO. Reminds me of the filter on the X which I also like a lot. You can also do a lot of stuff with the delays, if you are patient or know what you are doing (i dont, lol).

[@Paul_Y_T]

Another excellent review, thanks Jamie. This demonstrates why your videos are so useful, as they show what can be done when they get comfortable with how to get the best from them - not firing up some presets and/or doing the same old cookie-cutter simple patches. I have a p12 module and find the workflow less frustrating than I thought I might given the lack of knobs - obviously nothing like as good as the keyboard, but it's a hell of a lot better than the tetra and as-1!

[@GEOSynths]

Yeah, it's a great Synth which has been over shadowed by recent releases, but my new Bank od Patches I'm working on all use both Layers and it's so powerful. Thanks for watching.

[@oldschoolebm666]

I bought a second-hand, like new module for $900 usd. In part Thanks to your patches. And oh boy... I'm in love. Sounds surprisingly warm. In fact, I sold my pro 2 because the pro 12 is more versatile. Pro 2 has way more bass. Other then that the pro 12 is fantastic. And the module very easy to use.

[@GEOSynths]

Yeah, I had asimilar experience, from what I heard before buying the module originally, I thought it was a bit cold and a bit lifeless, but no, it's the opposite. I'm about halfway through the next P12 SoundSet and all of them use both layers...they're sounding very good indeed!

[@robertsyrett1992]

Just a suggestion, when you have a shot like at 9:34 you could use split screen to show us what's going on with the screen. I understand this is a hassle, but I think it would make things clearer as it is a lot to keep track of.

[@GEOSynths]

The webcam I used for the screen crashed while I was recording and didn't know until I finished, I had to go edit the video, then go back and record the screen, which was a mare...That's why there isn't a lot of it...Besides, it's not a Tutorial, I'll do some of those when I get a chance.

[@robertsyrett1992]

@@GEOSynths Ahh that makes more sense. Thanks for clarifying.

[@jupitermarx]

Jamie. Do you keep all your synths plugged in to a one master mixer?

[@GEOSynths]

No mixer, I use 2 x Presonus Quantum Interfaces and 4 x Behringer ADA8200 with a few Patch Bays.

[@Eyepatchfilms]

Just wish it had the VS stick

[@kristianskovgaardandersen4927]

Have you ever considered a short review on the pro 2 (noticed you got one in the back :))? Though it's discontinued by now, its gotta be (in my opinion at least) one the most overseen and underrated digital-analog synths of the past decade.

[@GEOSynths]

I'll be honest, i've use it for about a total of 30 minutes since buying it...3 years ago! It's good, don't get me wrong, but I much prefer Polysynths.

[@kristianskovgaardandersen4927]

​@@GEOSynths I respect that - but I think you are to miss something, you would've loved :) Considering its paraphonic nature and massive mod matrix it brings something completely different to the sonic landscape. Though I own a Summit, I keep getting back to the pro 2 - despite its "limitations" :) Anyway, thank you for the great content on your channel!

[@jupitermarx]

Have you played with the Waldorf Quantum? That would interest me if you can get your hands on one;) I could use your expertises!

[@GEOSynths]

Hi, yes I have one, just not done any Patches yet until the new OS is out.

[@jupitermarx]

@@GEOSynths May I suggest?>you do a comprehesive video? I love my WQ and I could use a good lesson!:) besides I dont' think there's been any good tutorials.

[@GEOSynths]

@@jupitermarx Yeah, it's just time really, once the new OS is out, I'll do some patches, then I can look at Tutorials. :)

[@novalogue]

Right now used Prophet 12´s are quiet expensive

[@christophertodman]

looking at getting the module...do you still have both or still find a use for the module now having the full board?

[@GEOSynths]

I sold the module for the keys version, it’s just easier to program with all the knobs.

[@christophertodman]

@@GEOSynths yes for sure...thanks for your quick reply

[@JunkSoap]

Thanks for the review. Now I understand why you told me that the P12 and Pro2 were kind of similar... I really like this sound... Even if I have a pro2, I still think I'm gonna get a P12 anyway... P12 has been discontinued recently. Maybe another piece of DSI gear is coming to replace it ?

[@GEOSynths]

Discontinued yes, but still for sale new in some places. If anything, they will do a bgger version of the Prophet 6, as in Voice Count and extra features, maybe 2 different Filters or Stereo Filters, another high end Synth. If you can get a P12 used though, then it's a different matter. I've been making Patches the past few days that have blown me away...I'm doing all the Patches this time as Stacked Layers, cuts the voice count down, but incredible Sound and movement.

[@JunkSoap]

@@GEOSynths Actually I have an opportunity for a module version of the P12 for 1000 euro, mint condition. But I'd really prefer the keyboard version, mainly because it looks really complicated without all the knobs, and I love the touchstrips anyway !!!

[@alexmichaelides5352]

Wow. I'm seeing someone sell one of these for $2800 CAD. Good deal? These sound nice.

[@subculture84]

I spy a Cheetah MS6 in your rack. If you still have it, how about doing a special with some patches on that?

[@GEOSynths]

Well spotted, yes I might do that.

[@Jehudi]

Could you do a synth show review about the Moog One?

[@GEOSynths]

I will at some point, though it will likely get a backlash, because of the cost and it just draws Trolls out of the Woodwork with usual "I'll wait until Behringer make it for £500"...that sort of thing, it get's a bit of a "Yawn" after a while.

[@Jehudi]

​@@GEOSynths The reactions on your Moog One patches tell me a different story :) You deliver quality video's and patches, and thats awesome man! Keep up the great work!

[@RayyMusik]

I considered to buy a P12 but apparently listened to the wrong demos which made it sound cold and tinny throughout. Now, after listening to a top sound designer’s (that’s you, Jamie) patches, I changed my mind. But now the P12 is discontinued. :(

[@GEOSynths]

Thanks, it's discontinued, but some places still have for sale. Look for a used one on Ebay or Reverb though.

[@2ammusik]

You can still get a P12 module new.

[@RayyMusik]

I’m not so keen on used gear (no warranty). As for the module: doesn‘t it have less knobs? I generally like the layout of keyboard versions better.

[@fortheloveofnoise]

Used gear is your friend.

[@VaguenessOn]

Limited Edition White Version still available.

[@studentjohn35]

Anyone know what is the weird key assigment thing is with the prophet 12?

[@GEOSynths]

How do you mean weird? Is it the Stereo panning you referring to? If so most Polysynths do it, all Sequential Synths do…

[@studentjohn35]

@@GEOSynths in the unit I have here, sometimes one has to repeatedly hit a note while the little red light cycles through the 12 positions. Never had a synth do that before

[@GEOSynths]

@@studentjohn35 I think if it's a Mono Sound, it re triggers the same voice...I've not checked, just from memory

[@Philippe44]

Wait, this is stereo... so that's 24 lpf's and 24 hpf's? Wow...

[@fortheloveofnoise]

Proper 5 octave.

[@WrvrUgoThrUR]

“Gearth” no longer works to describe you my Sunday friend. ”Svelt” would be more appropriate.

[@favoriteblueshirt]

Great review before I leave a bid on FleaBay thanks very much. Looks like a Poly Pro 2, which suits me fine, as that's the only thing "wrong" with the Pro 2.

[@gofyourselfgoogle875]

💅

[@InkyDaCaT]

Thanks Jamie....(I live in a tent😂🙌) thats not far from the truth for some of us lol I suspect thats why most big euroracks are filmed sheds?😂

[@ultrajayme]

I'm also Jayme