Hardware Synths Still Rule in 2024

[@jonmakesbeats]

Perfectly average minds think alike! Thanks for the shout man. Agree with your points, here

[@CatFish107]

*nodding along* Something to be said for a hybrid style approach, using a few nice controllers hooked up to a 'puter. All the keys, and knobs and faders, and all the power under the hood.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Lol! Loved your video bro! I love this topic especially when giving the spotlight to the art and enjoyment of the process of music making itself instead just production🤘🏻

[@saggygnaw]

The main takeaway I get from both your video and this one is to use what I have fun using and to not limit myself arbitrarily unless there's an artistic purpose to do so (e.g. 126 BM track in 7/8 in F#min, etc.) and even then to break the "rules" if it feels right. Having said all that I still prefer hardware because I'm a pedalhead. I know you love the Chroma Console and I love how it's both very broad while keeping you constrained to the format... I've probably had more fun twisting knobs on it this year than anything else.

[@g3cd]

Learning about the arch-nemesis, I think we all know now what REALLY happened to the MidlifeSynthesists' arm 🤔

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

@@g3cd 😂🫢

[@RikMaxSpeed]

I’m a software developer, I’ve even developed several synth & music apps. The last thing I want to do after a day’s work is more computer stuff. I love my hardware synths, and music, the perfect getaway after a hard day of concentration in front of a screen!

[@thaJeztah]

💯 same here! Want my synths to be tactile and just enjoy in the moment. No bad word about software synths, but for me it's hardware. And, yes, it can be an expensive hobby 🥹

[@funnzie]

Yes. I'm a graphic designer, in front of a computer all day, with a mouse for painting drawing, and a keyboard for words and code writing. Can't graphic design on hardware unless you go back to paint, canvas, brushes...and then scan them in, just not done much anymore. For music I don't have a computer in the studio, 100% hardware including the recorder.

[@M1kst3r1]

After looking at a screen all day, I enjoy the simplicity of turning a few knobs to make my spine tingle.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

100%!!

[@SonicWalkerMix]

Totally agree. Turning a few physical knobs while listening to the sounds can put you into the metal state of mind known as flow. That by itself is already worth spending the time without recording the outcome and 'producing' something.

[@scottlarock7924]

I've been a music hobbyist for 25 years. A poet who needed something else and started cutting loops with acid pro on the computer . . . Shout out to the OG Sony Vaio! I've had a really good time making music on the computer, but I could always feel . . . the void. Finally got a digital piano about 5 years ago. I've always loved tinkering on the piano. One night, with my limited skills I lost myself on the piano. Playing feverishly, sweating, totally lifted in the moment. I wasn't recording, I didn't have a motive. It was just a complete experience. Fast forward to 6 months ago, got my first synth. Almost the same thing. Out of the first five sessions, three of them I just got lost in. We are tactile creatures. One more note: creating music on the computer is brutal ergonomically / physically. Pulling faders and knobs with a mouse for 4 hours is brutal. This was honestly a large part of me finally getting the synth. One, for the synth itself and two, to use it as a MIDI controller and have control of VSTs directly. The mouse is evil. Last thing I'll throw out there, as a massage therapist, I give out a lot of advice. One thing I tell a lot of people is to train yourself to use the mouse with both hands. Between the mouse and the phone, are dominant hand has too much work to do and it throws us off physically. Do whatever you can to balance things out and to adjust your positions as you work. Repetition is what grinds us down.

[@keithprice1950]

I just see the PC/laptop as the hardware. It's all the same really. I'd love a bunch of hardware synths but I just don't have enough space and loads of cabling drives me crazy. My midi controller allows me to still play the keys, pads for the drums etc.

[@entropybentwhistle]

Your point about what setup and equipment makes the musician happiest is ultimately the salient point. Also not letting others judge you because your output numbers aren’t high enough in count or polished enough is key…the gatekeepers of any sort coming from any angle can go suck the big green bobo. Music was always the experience of the musician meeting their muse first, presenting it to the audience secondary. It’s your enjoyment time and nobody else’s. Don’t let some dufus in the dubiously ethical social media tell you how that enjoyment should come about.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

@@entropybentwhistle THIS🤘🏻🤘🏻

[@samborn7120]

I went virtual with plugins after growing up on hardware. I noticed that my creative desire and output was greatly diminished due to the process of making music on a computer. Returned to hardware only and now I write every month! I can create without a computer and THEN record when I have a piece together You also touched on the biggest problem I had.. Plug In updates and license problems. Continuous and painful.

[@oryxandcake2011]

That was also my take on it. When someone wants to play the guitar, they don't pick up a laptop.

[@brianedgin]

Yup, Yup, Yup. Your comment about getting a lot of satisfaction just looking at your collection especially resonated with me. I keep mine powered on and blinking more than I should, and it still takes my breath away when I enter the room. :)

[@jeffryarchambeau5441]

Especially at night. Original Novation Circuits give great blink per buck.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

One hundred percent!! It’s like being in an airplane cockpit, destination: Music City🤘🏻

[@ShallieDragon]

I like both for different reasons. Though, I have found that hardware does lend itself more to play, and software to production (at least for me). A big reason for this is that hardware lets me get away from screens. I don't have to stay rooted at my computer to play hardware. I can curl up on my couch with my Microfreak and just make pretty sounds. It's cozy.

[@zezaonobrega7909]

I agree with you. More than the result, I value the touch and the process, and that makes me have much better results.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

AMEN!

[@JayHosking]

Fantastic points. Tactility, fun, permanency. Great essay!

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

@@JayHosking thanks so much my friend!! Your music and setups are a constant source of wonder and inspiration, and truly showcase what amazing things can be achieved with only a few well chosen hardware intruments🙌🏻 thanks so much for stopping by🤘🏻

[@RickyTinez]

fight fight fight! hahaha

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

😂😂😂 I’m coming for ya next Señor Martinez!💪🏼😜😜

[@AndrossUT]

but fight like the characters in the MV for Miike Snow's Genghis Khan

[@saggygnaw]

@@RickyTinez just have a Battle Royale between the three of you Edit: I just realized that between the three of you I’ve either learned useful stuff about gear I already owned or made informed choices on new purchases that have enhanced my enjoyment of making music. Thanks to each of you!

[@MarcoPolux]

@@MidlifeSynthesist Naaa! you wouldn't dare!! Mr. Tinez is untouchable!! he would remix the $hip out of you and keep your soul squeezed with the Octatrack's compressor, for evermore.

[@CatFish107]

Watch out, there could be a pistol hidden in that sling.

[@sunlightprism]

I'm grateful for VST synths and Behringer, helps curb the demand for the cool vintage gear I use and adore.

[@SantiagoGT15]

+1 getting an Oberheim was a crazy dream, and Behringer just puts out one that’s attainable

[@sunlightprism]

@@SantiagoGT15 That's great. I own a few Behringer clones, but most of my gear is vintage stuff.

[@kylekemp4776]

I love your common sense approach to music. I am glad to have found your channel.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

@@kylekemp4776 thanks so much! I appreciate you fam🙌🏻

[@assafdarsagol]

I saw both videos, I'm glad you guys are having fun with hardware. Personally I have much more fun with software. I have a lot of hardware in my studio that is just collecting dust because its way to tedious for me to start powering stuff and connecting it. creating a new patch on my modular requires me to ruin the old one. and many times just troubleshooting hardware issues - especially with some of my vintage gear is just not worth it for me. With that said, The most important thing is the journey and not the result and that is why I am glad you found what makes your journey more worthwhile to you. Cheers!

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Likewise my friend! Happy to know you found what makes the journey fun for you! Software or Hardware, as long as you´re making music with a smile on your face it´s all good! Cheers!

[@PaulWhitingQuirk]

Have to agree here. As a song writer and not a sound designer VST is for sure the way to go.

[@allenleclerc7878]

So inspiring. Woke up to this on a rainy Saturday and now coffee in hand, I’m off to the space. No goals in mind but I do have a plan. Just gonna run the sub 37 with some Valhalla plugins and hit the sonic road. Using a mouse is the most non musical non creative necessity if the DAW era but still necessary. So happy to have these real instruments lying around. They never disappoint. Thanks so much for this awesome video. Love your vibe. Al from Nelson.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Thanks so much for sharing such a sweet morning my friend! Felt I was drinking coffee right next to you🤘🏻 will fire up the sub37 with valhalla and jam along from the distance🔥

[@tonygrundallday]

So many of the points you’ve made resonate with me on a level which I didn’t really understand until you put it into words in this video. Thank you for helping me understand what has been going on inside my brain for the past few years, and why I’ve been wanting to return to my hardware roots for a few years now!

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

So cool to connect like that! really happy if this helped in any way! Cheers!

[@MyKeysToMusic]

Thank you for your content. I agree with this. On my channel, a lot of people ask about software versus hardware, and you bring up some other points, such as: "Hardware forces one to limit the collection simply because of the physical space the collection takes up!" I never thought about that, but it's so true!! 👍 Oh, and I can't tell you how many times I'm about to release a video,only to realize that another creator did the exact same thing a day before! GRRR, that is so frustrating! But, that's life,I guess. I keep telling myself, "There's enough room for everybody." But still, it's frustrating. You speak from the heart, keep up the great work. 🎹

[@ruffark]

I sample my hardware and plugins, load the samples in a software or hardware tracker and off I go. Best of both worlds for me.

[@jed_cappelli]

I've used the exact same example before, about the word "toca"... it's really true. And I think people that played an instrument first, before getting into music production (which seems like an obvious progression to me) would also agree with everything you're saying here.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

@@jed_cappelli thanks for watching my friend!! Hope we get to tocar synths for years to come!

[@alexanderlane]

For me the reason is just that with hardware I have more fun. Working in a DAW feels a little bit too much like work. Also, to that point, I work in front of a computer for 8+ hours every day. I don't want to spend all my free time in front of it too. Anything that gets me away from it is good in my book

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Totally agree! I think al ot of us feel the same🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@nobodyxxxxxxxx]

This is exactly me. 8 hrs per day doing CAD. When I get home the absolute last thing I want to look at is a computer. Also, you are 100% right, DAW's just feel like a whole lot of work. Mixing and arranging, yes the DAW is great but for everything else, I'm nowhere near a screen

[@celgris]

The new Mac OS Manquehuito 😂😂😂 aguante compa Midlife! ✌

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

@@celgris jajajaja gracias mi guachoo!

[@celgris]

@@MidlifeSynthesist 🤣👍

[@phurniture]

Although I use Ableton daily (and have for the past 2 decades), I still prefer hardware instruments for the following reasons: 1. I prefer the ability to turn a hardware knob vs using a mouse, or even a controller (I don't even like endless encoders on synths, it's just not the same for me). 2. I like the ability to take hardware instruments to a venue and play a gig. I don't want to do this with a computer. 3. I like the limitations of many of my pieces of gear. They can only do so much, so I'm forced to be more creative with the actual patterns and sound programming I can do with them. The options in-the-box are endless and can lead to decision paralysis. 4. I only buy things used and only when I find incredible deals. This way I can resell them for the same price, or often for more. Over the years I've managed to buy-and-sell my way from cheaper synths to more expensive ones since I put the profit from a flip towards something more fancy. I don't believe that hardware will necessarily sound better or give everyone better results. However for me I find it inspires my creativity.

[@unc1589]

You know, using a jog wheel that gets louder when you spin it faster is extremely satisfying. Because it’s YOU controlling the editing. Plus! While you’re taking the extra five seconds to do a task, and not hating it, the mind has a chance to sort. To make alternative decisions that you wouldn’t have made. There is an optional work speed that creates a nice pocket that allows other non musical aspects of creating to contribute. We are so much more than 1s and zeros. Example: A computer can’t be working on a song and hear a car go by playing 60s radio and say “hey that fits!” That’s human sht!

[@GavinVickery]

Honestly, I love both. Jamming on hardware is so fun and inspiring. Mixing and arranging on hardware is the worst. My flow is to track out some stems and ideas into the box and do a bit of arranging there. Minimal tweaking with mouse and keyboard, so it’s enjoyable. I’m probably 70% hardware, 30% daw. Just use what you vibe with.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

That´s the sauce right there! Hybrid workflow and finding the balance that works best! See you soon!

[@KeytarKris]

It broke my heart when Espen Kraft sold his gear. I’m in the classic gear team, but I appreciate the awesomeness of the DAW.

[@ArguZ72]

I am ok with that...other people value that stuff more than that clown.

[@spryt-uk]

I was watching this thinking oh my god that’s how I think. And why I have a small collection of hardware synths. You articulated every point so well. Thank you 🙏 I will direct my friends to this vid. The one who do everything in the box and question why I need the hardware

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

@@spryt-uk thanks for the kind words my Friend!

[@djellisdee]

Having a few key well thought out hardware synths is a great tool to have in the studio, and they don't need to be crazy expensive (eg. the MiniFreak)

[@SURCOlive]

100% agree with you (both) ;)

[@kptamc]

Especially for a live performance, you can't beat hardware synths!

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

100%! If I´m going to a show I don´t want to see someone behind a laptop lol!

[@MG53v8]

Great for guests too, they love a hoon on the synths .

[@footrocketco.3050]

Hardware is fun, that's why I use it. What's also fun is buying one goovebox or synth, and forcing your mind to only use that one thing to create music. It doesn't have to be "super expensive".

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

This is exactly it! Thanks for watching!

[@RockerBug17]

limitation breeds creativity

[@cyberpholk]

I'm brand new to synthesis, though I have been making music with guitar, bass, piano etc for a few decades. DIY modular is what roped me in. The world of synths is way too huge for my brain, and I would buy the farm if I loosened the reins. But by building my own modules, I'm learning synthesis deeply from the bottom up, one module at a time, and loving it

[@km3musiclab]

So Agree! I love synths and outboard gear. I get more satisfaction knowing I can touch what I own. I have some synths I have owned for 25yrs now and they still work. In the past I have also experience the "DIGITAL DUST" situation with Plug-Ins being outdated and no longer compatible.

[@sacredsolidstate]

Saw you on Bo's channel. Someone who loves warhammer and synths is my people. Subbed.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

@@sacredsolidstate happy to see you here brother! For the Emperah!!

[@TonyThomas10000]

I had a room full of hardware in the 80s. I don't miss the headaches. I am ITB all the way...

[@SonicWalkerMix]

I share most of your sentiments. I tried to recreate the hardware feeling for software with midi controllers. Works to some degree but those generic knobs and faders don't allow me to build the same level of muscle memory as with dedicated hardware synths and you still spend too much time mapping devices. Although once setup properly I'd say the experience can be very similar. Essentially, for me, the key factors in choosing software and hardware are usability and simplicity. I want to keep my workflow straightforward and make room for creativity and fun. There are hardware synths with a horrible user experience just as there are software synths that completely kill my motivation. Since my full time job is in software engineering I only have a few hours here and there for music and preferably I don't spend those hours clicking on things on the screen. I am now leaning towards very basic hardware synths without bells and whistles (and menu diving, poor library software,...) and software instruments that are not bloated with endless features but instead focus on usability.

[@libradude81]

I'm cutting down on both hardware and software now. Jaspers stands are put away, and only pulling out 1 or 2 synths at a time on desktop style stand. Found it is better for me to have it right in front of me at my DAW as opposed to everything on display and connected; not to mention a much more simple setup. Software is culled down to just my favorites. Like you said, too many duplicates and programs that just aren't a good fit for me. I really love both approaches and feel that I get a lot of the perks of both sides with fewer of the downsides. It really is about knowing your gear rather than having 50 different synths.

[@MsInstrumentalBeatz]

My gravitation towards hardware synths align with yours. I’ve spent a fortune on VSTs over the years and as a beginner, I didn’t take the time to fully understand all of them (because they come in massive bundles 😂) but once I started touching hardware synths (as you say), things started to click and I started to understand what each knob was doing quicker due to the instant, tactile feedback. Plus I’ve grown to like recording in audio over midi…it helps me to finish more music. I still use both & find both useful as needed for a project, but I do prefer my hardware. Plus it’s fun 🎉

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Amen to that!!🤘🏻🤘🏻

[@MartinMartin-xm8xs]

I've always preferred hardware. I've not ever been interested in creating on a computer program. I've been gifted programs in the past but never was able to get into them. The only use for computer for me personally would be mixing/mastering but I'm completely comfortable doing that with hardware as well. 46yr old making music since me teens (grade school if you count drums:;) great video!

[@UrbanGarden-rf5op]

You're preaching to the choir. I started making music long before it was feasible to buy a personal computer. When MIDI came along I became obsessed with the possibilities. Long story short, after spending the last twenty years in the software synth rabbit hole, i've returned to my roots. Real nobs and faders are so much better for injecting expression into electronic music instruments. As an example, the trick to make an organ part sound interesting is playing with your right hand, keeping it out of the register of the bass, and tweaking the drawbars, Leslie switch and volume with the left hand. The same applies to synthesizers. I will absolutely keep my computer based dream rig for adding fairy dust, mixing and fine tuning. But creating music using a "real" instrument makes so much more sense to me. The joy of actually playing the parts instead of programming them is hard to beat. ✌✌

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Loved this! Thanks for sharing my friend🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻

[@Cloud_Brn]

I love the tactile sensation of creating with instruments, especially coming from drums and bass guitar. When I wanted to get into electronic music with synths and sequencers I tried the computer, but it felt so foreign and forced. I acquired a Synthstrom Deluge and a hardware synth and couldn’t be happier with the physicalness of the workflow, and the tactile grid I can manipulate!

[@steveanderson5226]

Hell yeah! Very well said sir! I deeply appreciate you taking the time to produce this. I too am an old guitarist who has embraced hardware synths for the tactile, closed loop experience of creation. I respect the power of the DAW but I need less mouse and screen time when I’m relaxing :)

[@osirismaximus2787]

Great video. I love hardware and and yes, I use vst's too. I would encourage everyone to use a little of both.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

All things in balance! Lots of love!

[@tubeMonger]

Thank you for you take on this. Valid points. I've already sold most of my gear and switching back to DAW software and virtual synths since it's the most fun to me. The controllers these days have very deep integration with knobs, sliders and a couple of them even have a step-sequencer - all at the tip of your (physical touching) fingers. I don't feel the difference between the hardware with grooveboxes and synths versus the keys, pads, knobs, sliders controller has. I feel so liberated without the baggage the gear. Trading gear may be easy, but selling gear is not (unless you sell them very cheap). You will loose money and there are gear that nobody wants to buy - for instance Digitone Keys. The thing is, I never got started making music with gear because I didn't have dedicated space for them. Setting up everything from scratch wasn't fun and all the devices with all the cables, power bricks and effect pedals lying around on my work desk was just too much. But that wasn't the whole story. I also didn't like the restrictions that the devices had or the numerous key shortcuts that I had to re-learn after a while not using the gear (Deluge, I'm looking at you). For a limited frame, I still use trackers for Amiga and C64, but for smooth sailing a midi controller, DAW and virtual synths is the most fun without the burden of having to set up gear before getting into making music. Having said all this, I may come back and purchase gear - but I can still only love people, not gear.

[@sherrihammons1054]

It is very rare for me to comment on videos. But, I found this completely relatable and thoughtful. I retired several years ago and have jumped back into music (I played professionally in my twenties). Thank you for this. ❤

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

@@sherrihammons1054 thanks so much for watching and for sending good vibes! See you soon🙌🏻

[@GerryMoningkey]

I'm a Gen Z music producer who like most started off 100% in the box. One of the reasons I shifted to hardware cuz like this video explained YOU REALLY OWN IT and they won't be effed up by Windows update. I have music projects from years back that I can't open up properly now cuz the VSTs and Plugins used there are either incompatible, no longer supported, or need to be "registered again" (the license). Also, one interesting thing abt hardware that you can't get from plugin is that each unit sounds subtly different even tho they're of the same model (I have two Roland R-70s which are Digital but they sound different from each other) whereas every instance of a VST & plugin sounds 100% the same

[@philipd2252]

keeps you healthy too, running from one side to another and keeping time 😁. My Jupiter just winked at me and matrixbrute joined in, you can't beat that feeling, that lovely .......

[@MapleSonics]

Just came back from a holiday. Entered my studio and sang a love song to my hydrasynth.

[@renevanderkraats224]

I just like the sense of achievement mastering diverse hardware, and tying it all together....the looks, the feel. Gives me more of a sense of achievement than virtual stuff on a computer. It's a 'solid' thing that I own.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Could´t agree more! Learning the Octatrack was like learning a second language and it´s always been a sort of badge of honor for me. Thanks for watching!

[@yves_auger]

I used to dream about hardware synths. I have mostly given up on that dream now. I agree that physical instruments can be beautiful and feel great under our fingers, but I can’t justify the expense. I would definitely reconsider if I won the lottery, but until then i am 100% in the box. For me it’s become all about getting great controllers. I’d love to get an OXI One… To avoid the gas that goes along with software instruments, I buy the great ones and try to treat them as if they were hardware. Meaning that I focus on only a few instruments at a time, and try to go deep. That works for me. Thanks for the video. All great points.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Thanks for sharing brother! Whatever works as long as you’re making music and enjoying the ride❤️❤️ If nothing else, I’ll make beats with a frying pan and a spoon😂

[@MarcusEDM]

I relate 100% to everything said on the video. Tried many times to use a DAW... sucked all the joy off the process. I don't have any need to produce nor publish songs. Btw, I coined a new acronym: PAS - Plugin Acquisition Syndrome.

[@CinematicLaboratory]

I recently tried to open an Ableton project from 2015 and it couldn't be loaded because my main VST was deprecated and replaced by a 'better' version. Nothing worked, except the vocal recordings. So whatever you do, whatever you like, export a few stems when your project is finished because backups won't work.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Dropping some free wisdom here🤘🏻🤘🏻

[@touchthatdial]

Bang on. This is so right. I love the tactile nature of a musical instrument.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

AMEN!!

[@alexandrebaroni1057]

It is the best post that I saw regarding this subject. I started collection VST's and libraries. I stopped when I reach US$ 80,000.00 on these crazy GAS situation. I tried to reinstall all these products and it took me 1 year, since I continue working and doing all my home tasks. I moved to Hardware and I spent US$ 50,000.00 until now. GAS is GAS and it don't bother me. But the hardware has this "magical" non virtual world.

[@peterbob5724]

For me I've been doing hardware only or mostly for the last 4 years. I originally switched because I was sick of troubleshooting PCs when I wanted to do music. The years have gone by and now I rarely have to troubleshoot my computer or software, but my hardware requires tons of workaround for bugs and issues. It's a funny timing to see your video in a week where I've been feeling like selling all my gear, keep my Keylab, Minilab and Launchpad pro and just do music in bitwig and renoise. Anyways long stream of consciousness hehe... as always great video good sir!

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Thanks so much for hanging out with me today my friend! Peace!

[@FelipeTellez]

No sabía que tú hablabas español. Super el video. También vi el de Jon. Me encanta que ambos hablan acerca de la "felicidad" y la fisicalidad que existe con lo análogo, y también el otro lado de la moneda, con la practicalidad de lo digital. Por encima de todo, pensar que la música es un viaje y no un destino como bien lo pones, me trae mucha felicidad. Espero que estés sanando bien, y hacer música hermano!

[@merlinoner]

Hasta salia una bandera Chilena en el video :)

[@FelipeTellez]

@@merlinoner !!!!! Dios mio estoy ciego po! =)

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Gracias por comentar bro! Soy chileno jaja! Gracias por las buenas vibras, el brazo va sanando lento pero seguro! Abrazo grande!

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

🇨🇱 !!

[@bastiaanw3519]

Take hardware collecting to another level, go modular! 😀 Otherwise, you are spot on and that's why I'm saving up for a Summit: I want to touch some keys (I had piano lessons before I went electronic).

[@damelos4039]

PLUGIN Lust!!! What are all those "boxes" doing in the livingroom! Got that from my wife. LMAO. Great video. Love it. I think I have balance of BOTH but definitely have bought oo much HW lately. I think there's a place for Serum, Ozone, Cableguys, NI, etc. along with the Korg, Roland, Yamaha.

[@danielskah]

Hybrid setups are the way to go imo, a couple plugins here and there and some nice synths/drum machines.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Absolutely! I hope I´m not coming off as a hardware zealot, I use Ableton to finish most my songs. Just that for creativity and having fun I always prefer hardware. Lots of love!

[@safa1one]

Yeah for sure I remember being on fl studio in high school and always wanting to touch some pads and knobs even if it was a midi controller 😅 it’s a turn on (no pun intended haha)

[@ColeDano]

A big part of why went straight to hardware is I played guitar when I was younger, and it was all about that feeling in the finger tips. Now I'm more interested in synths, and I can also play even while my wife is sleeping. Hardware was the only option for me, I need that tactile feeling. Happy to see you posting, hope the arm is healing :)

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Thanks so much for sharing brother! My arm is healing slooowly but steadily, thanks for the love!

[@chrisb3389]

I prefer hardware and the inherent limitations. If I worked a physical job like construction and never stared at a computer for my day job, I might be tempted to go DAW + controllers more, but my life force drains when I get in the computer, unless I already did the creative work and am just straight mixing. I'm like you in that I experiment a lot and don't finish a ton, but like you the making of music in the moment is way more important than output amount.

[@remyvegamedia]

I'm into the ideas in these two "rival" videos haha. I went through a journey the last 2 years trying to find out what really works for me. I've always had and preferred hardware keyboards and synths, but figuring out my production and recording process was the challenge. I don't want to write an essay here (which I tend to), but I'm on my second time owning a modern MPC and really loving it this time. As much as I love Ableton as a DAW with a Push 2 I just find it difficult to enjoy using a mouse and QWERTY keyboard when I'm making music. I can't explain it exactly, it just isn't my ideal. I do still use Ableton for the final product. Something similar has occurred with my writing process. I recently got 3 manual typewriters and have been writing all of my short stories and a novel that way. When I have a dedicated device for the task, I just keep going. When editing is a little bit more difficult, I keep momentum. The computer is where I do my finishing touches and publishing for both music and writing. It has its place, but for me it isn't really in the initial creative phase. Great insights, man! Hope you're well.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Thanks for sharing my friend! And thanks for the good vibes, see you soon!

[@CatFish107]

I really enjoy using a nanokontrol midi controller with vcv rack. It gives me a bunch of knobs and faders and push buttons that I can map all over the place. It allows me to try out and experiment with a huge array of modules, which would be impossibly costly in hardware. And I still get a physical interface to play. Maybe once I have more experience with keys, I will add those in too. I also enjoy playing on real deal hardware. It never decides to reboot because the os autoupdated in the background.

[@CatFish107]

Bass guitar got bsod blues 🎶

[@parasiteunit]

Ironically, one of favourite interfaces for music is my old Oxygen 25 controller keyboard. The reason is that it has rotary controllers. When those bad boys spinning, it adds so much control that isn't twiddling about a virtual rotary... but an actual rotary. Also, analogue stuff can add to a mix. Why I just brought a Volca Kick. Which I use as a sub base and lead machine - obviously 😁

[@unc1589]

It’s like asking “why would you go out to a nice restaurant when you can order Uber eats? Why drive and get caught at all those red lights on the way? Why limit yourself to the menu with some waiter hovering over you when you can split the menu on two screens and see EVERYTHING while sitting in your underwear?” Because it’s nice to go out once in a while. Humans like it. It’s actually fun .

[@JeffHendricks]

I love making music with hardware. I'm not really a synth player, so it's a bit easier for me to avoid plugins, but there's still plenty of computer goodies that tempt me to go back. But like Jon says, it's just so much more fun.

[@ringsystemmusic]

I’m hardware primarily but I want to move to software sequencing for my live shows. Gonna be a cool setup too- planning on running it embedded on a Quest 3.

[@longlostrobots8146]

It’s all about the vibrations flowing through you .

[@willswitchcraft]

Also - If you've ever gone on tour, working on 'the big stage'.....you'll generally want a piece of well built hardware in front of you.......laptops can easily get overheated during outdoor festivals in the heat, not so with a synth.

[@i-adonald1499]

I totally get that. Im terrified of fragile equipment onstage. Laptops don't do well on stage. Fragile with fragile connectors. All my music equipment is solid. My keyboards are dependable. I could not imagine the total horror movie of a computer crash onstage.

[@willswitchcraft]

Agreed.

[@CR-sj7xd]

if you put 3 or 4 instances of a basic vst you can reach that "depth" of a hardware synth. thats what all pros do in music production industry. and softsynths still souds more up to date with electronic music, while hardware has that nostalgic hint that people (not me) want .

[@joshualee3059]

Loving your videos bro! Just discovered your channel

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Thanks so much!! See you soon!

[@HarmonicSonics.]

Very well said 👏👏 👍 I feel blessed to have plenty of hardware synths and some guitars, but also have and use a daw and software synths too. I'm not sure how I ended up with all this stuff, I just like making sounds and music, for as long as I can remember. I have and love playing both acoustic and electronic instruments. I record songs or jams mostly via my daw, (still on GarageBand, I know, but it works for me pretty well even up to 30 tracks, even with automations), but I also have a groove box and enjoy making live jams with various sequencer backing riffs. I guess I like to diversify my music instrument format portfolio if that's even a thing 😄 being able to record on the go or right on the spot.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

@@HarmonicSonics. that’s the word! Feel blessed to be surrounded by so many wonderful instruments!

[@GGprods-o2x]

analog cases is actually fire.... got two of their velcro cases and the track backpack and goddamn will be grabbing two xts surfaces soon.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

I´ve had cases for years! Awesome stuff!

[@KakoGuzmanMusic]

I bought into the Arturia "ecosystem" years ago, and even though they provide me with every possible sound (Pigments, especially), I long for the days when I only used hardware synths. At the end of the day, nobody cares whether you use a mint 1970s Mood D or some free plug-in-what matters is what inspires you and makes you want to make music. Some of my most productive days were when I had a Roland XP-80 workstation and an SP-404 sampler, and only used the computer for tracking.

[@SmallWorldBigThings]

100% agree with all points... except number 1 for me (to use hardware synhs) is to limit time with a computer (I spend way too much time using laptops/pc at my work).

[@No_Nag]

First time watcher. Awesome video! Straight to the point and to me accurate! Subbed 👍

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Thanks so much my friend! Happy to have you aboard! See you soon🙌🏻

[@heavysystemsinc.]

Let's just say if every country had perfect and affordable mass transit that was no hassle, ran on time, covered everywhere you could possibly want to go, we would still have people that just REALLY love cars and want to own a car and drive it.

[@heavysystemsinc.]

RE: Software - I tend to like my software like I like my boxes: They don't need anything else to make a full track. This means no plug ins. That's not to say I DONT have plugins. I have a free set of basics (reverb, eq, etc. for effects, Synth1 for synth, MDA Piano and ePiano for keys and samples for anything un-synth) if the software has no built ins, but most do, even ones that support plug ins. I think overall, keeping that mindset of hardware carried over into computer land does help cause I will say back in early 2000's when SynthEdit hit the scene and so like all these random wild VSTs were uploaded every day to KVRAudio, you bet your last Guitar Center Gift Certificate I was downloading and trying them...and making nothing musically. That said, Mr. Alias should really be a hardware synth or at least a 'machine' in an Elektron box...syntakt or digitone ii? Sorry, that's an aside, but craziness and no boundaries of price to try new synthesis types out are great...so I'm glad it's continuing to evolve and hopefully inspire hardware down the line.

[@hostrow]

It's not just tactile feel. Preset management using plug ins can be very challenging. Switching and tweaking presets using a laptop frankly sucks! One can of course can use a controller with physical controls and map them to plug in controls but it's usually a maze of frustration if you have to do it for every plug in and on some every patch. I map commonly used parameters that you find in most soft synths to the same physical controls but the unique parameters are difficult to remember without some kind of labeling system. I can easily look at a hardware synth and know which control to tweak. Presets themselves are also easier on hardware synths that have a decent sized LCD. I use Logic and Ableton and do a lot of improvised live performing and scrolling through presets is challenging if you just have a laptop. I tend to find myself setting up dedicated channels with plug-ins set to the correct presets and just switch channels. I don't want to enable to disable plug-ins live so I deal with burning CPU cycles with plug ins that are not in use.

[@roccsterx]

One aspect that you did not mention, is the feeling of neglect or stress, that you can get with to much hardware. Having to many synths craving attention can sometimes become a burden by it self. Also, the fact that you find your self messing around with cables and devices not syncing properly is also a thing to consider when going hardware. Having that said, knobs and faders sure is so much more inspiring then using a mouse. It also opens up for more happy accidens.

[@tubeMonger]

This. Also, selling the gear isn't that easy either. You may end up stuck with gear nobody wants to buy.

[@justjoeblow420]

I've personally been using a hybrid workflow as my DAW can pick up the slack on some things that hardware just doesn't do quite as well like orchestral libraries but most my synth parts are from my hardware. It's not like my clients really care how I write and mix down the music I write for them just as long as it sounds good for what ever project I'm writing for. I have considered going DAW only in the hopes it will speed up my workflow but chances are it will just crater my productivity.

[@sophiepooks2174]

Made the worst mistake in 2003 replacing my hardware sampler and synths with a computer and sound card thinking in the box would be so much better in every way and tidier, gave me not many finished tunes just hundreds of unfinished jams, overwhelming choices practically made me give up on making music.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

sorry to hear that! did you find your way back?

[@funnzie]

I'm a practiced musician, been playing keys for 57 years, guitar for 47 years; to sound design on anything but hardware is not possible for me, it makes me physically ill to use a mouse to move knobs and sliders, pushing buttons. Hardware controllers don't match the screen (they could, but software engineers refuse to accept a standard for hardware control). The physical of performing on an instrument is the same joy I have sound designing on an instrument. Designing on software is like cutting 9 of your fingers off. Hardware is lighting fast, muscle memory and sound design is happening at my thought level, software is very slow, just no speed, not as fast as your thoughts with software. Hardware stays the same, I never update hardware, once I know the instrument in the deepest way, it is always the same. Software is too expensive and always asking for more money, or an instrument I invested a year learning in is not longer available under current OS. Software is not dependable for recording 17 instruments at once, but my ZoomR24 has never failed me in 13 years, never corrupted, never not recorded perfectly. Plus I have thrown out computer interfaces just because the next OS isn't supported. A computer instrument only lasts as long as your current computer, then good luck. I own my instruments, paid for, and become familiar and easy to use over the years. My instruments are my friends, while computers are my enemy....for making music. (I have been graphic designing on computers since the 1980s on main frames, then MACs later, I maintain, repair and troubleshoot my computers and my clients' computers. I am not afraid of computers).

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

@@funnzie “My instruments are my friends”❤️🙌🏻🙌🏻 bravo !! Exactly how I feel🤘🏻

[@captaincid6488]

I learned electronic music on hardware and will forever stick with it. I'm dawless except for recording, I use Ableton to record, but not to sequence or produce sounds. My first synth is a Sequential Prophet T8, the instrument itself still provides inspiration to this day. I use a Roland MC-80 as my sequencer, I sync it to Ableton when recording. It's just as capable as a software DAW sequencer. I also use an Alesis Andromeda, Sequential Prophet 12, Alesis Fusion, Korg Wavestation AD, Novation Bass Station 2 and an Elektron Analog RYTM. I can produce music and sounds as complex as any software DAW.

[@andrewdoucet3029]

amen brother-the way I think of it-I’m paying not only for hardware but for the ability to write music without a computer. I’m paying as much for what it is as what it isn’t. I’m paying in part to be free from that kind of device. and I am happy to pay for that. I do wish it was a bit less pricey lol. But it’s worth it.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Well put my friend! happy to see you here, cheers!

[@sonickitchen]

Perfect, thank you Captain!

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Thanks for watching!!

[@loafoid]

needed this today!

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

So happy to hear that!🙌🏻

[@DEADLINETV]

Although I agree with you, I find it easier to produce music with plugins. It is mostly my lack of proper knowledge, or feeling confident to really commit to what I played, I guess. I'm happy I live in a world where I have both. Love tinkering and sound designing with my hardware, love recording with the software.

[@Scheckiification]

So agree with so much of 1 and 2. Though I don’t know what you’re talking about with being a collector….certainly not me and my 229 synths…..um which is why your right about 3 except it took me almost having my sweetie kill me to stop.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

lol! been there! 😅😅

[@Scheckiification]

And how did you survive....well I guess getting rid of a bunch. Bummer. Lol

[@S_e_a_n]

Great points my man! It is about what you like. Your VST scenario was so true in my case as well. How many versions of the 808 do you have 🙂

[@petofisanyi2420]

Well said Midlifeo!

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

@@petofisanyi2420 🤘🏻🤘🏻🙌🏻

[@samprock]

I got a new beautiful grey Mac Logi mouse, matching my synths, love touching it! 😂 It’s an instrument too you know ❤

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

All for Love!!❤️

[@tomfoolery4077]

I am in the same boat, I just want to twist knobs and make riffs for my own enjoyment. I still fall down the hole of, well i havent "finished" this track, so whats the point? Then remind myself of how I FELT whilst making said uncomplete track, and then repeat. ha. i am currently trying to get a "hybrid" setup of my own, using my existing software synths and effects, but also connecting my hardware synths, and also connecting my guitars, and also connecting my BeatBuddy pedal... aaand im overwhelmed. ha. Mainly I feel I need to be using everything I own at all times, to justify why I have it. Not sure where that pressure is coming from, thats for another topic. Anyways, nice to hear someone just talk about the playing of music vs producing music. Feels like thats the new hot word of the day, producing/producer.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Couldn’t agree more my friend and I for one am done with the whole “hustler/grinder/producer” trend. I have no plans to sell out stadiums, so I just want to have a good time making sounds and music I enjoy in the comfort of my room. Lots of love!

[@wendelynmusic]

I learned on hardware back before digital, when all synths were analog. I sold all my equipment and went to acoustic jazz and free improv for many years in the early aughts, before software synths were what they are today. So when I got back into Electronic Music during Covid, I didn't even realize that software synths were as good as they are and went straight for actual synths. I mean I was Dawless before the term DAW existed. I am not a gear head. I don't collect anything. If I buy a new synth, I get rid of a synth, and for now I won't be buying anything new at all. I have 4 synths that do what I want them to do and I am quite content. I don't really even use midi these days, even though back in the day everything I owned went via midi into the my beta version of Cakewalk, which had just barely started adding ways to record sounds and not just midi. back in the day modular was super expensive and I would rent time on a Buchla synth at a local place in seattle. But no more modular for me anymore this time around.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Thanks for sharing your journey!! lots of love!

[@i-adonald1499]

I have bought a few hardware synths. The Deepmind six and the Nord lead a1. They are a bit easier to use for synth noob like me. Ive tried to use the instruments included in my daws and it doesn't work for me.The insanely huge choice of vst instruments does my head in. I play fretless bass, cello, upright bass, keys of different kinds. The all involve lots of movement, touch, physical feedback. I don't get that with vsts even when using a midi keyboard. I have gigged a lot with a Nord stage. You tweak a knob, roll a wheel, rip out a lead solo on the keys it's all physical. Ive felt guilty about keeping the Deepmind 6. But after watching your vid I'm going to keep it. Im also going to continue to use all physical instruments to record backing tracks and to jam. and gig. It works for me. It feels great. It's better for my creative process. NOW I'm going back to reverb to look at a bass I don't need. Maybe a synth .... or two .........

[@suparickyprime]

this is AWESOME !!!!!!

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

@@suparickyprime thank you!!🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@LuisTorres-qz5kr]

Spot on! Thx for sharing.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Thanks for watching!

[@danextbestthing15]

Great video my man 😊😊

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

@@danextbestthing15 🙌🏻🙌🏻