I Sold All My DAWless Gear (not clickbait)

[@DylanParisMusic]

Thanks for watching! Consider checking out my music and following me on Spotify here: open.spotify.com/album/6HCemxzxzH49z9vXIOjgug?si=1D8-Msc2Q4-9MrfTiCZLug&nd=1

[@badoedipus2551]

Well.. I’m a hybrid guy. I think the optimal thing is both.. use whatever tool is best for whatever you’re trying to do.. and try and put together an optimal tool ecosystem for whatever it is you’re trying to do. Most of my hardware is analog cause, in my ecosystem, computers are digital.. and so I want stuff that kinda contrasts with what I have to work with in the computer. Right now I’m aiming at going, increasingly, more modular. It’s a real sound design adventure for me.. where it’s like I’m always dreaming about sounds and trying to work out how I could create them. For me there’s all these different ways I want to be able to work.. all these different goals and values.. and then I just kinda evaluate stuff relative to my goals, values, and budget.

[@TJ-bx5px]

I'm so chronically tired of plugins, endless presets, mouse/keyboard. I love real hardware.

[@JoshElliottMusic]

I had a very similar journey. Over the last two years I have purchased and sold a pretty good cross-section of the hardware devices that are currently on the market. I featured them in my KZbin videos and really tried my best to use them in my productions and live set. I have been spending around the last four months Trying to rebuild my live set around the Octatrack and the MPC one. Well the other day I had an urge to open up Ableton and connect my Push 2. I almost hated to admit it but I felt like I was home again. What took me months to build out with hardware I could put together in a few days and Ableton and have a much more flexible and simple set up. This is not to knock hardware at all because it is wonderful and definitely has its own strengths and appeal. But if I’m going to be honest about how I spend my time and what works better for me in a practical and creative sense I have to say I’m going to be moving back over to Ableton and Push 2.

[@frantsel5711]

How long did you use the octa?

[@JoshElliottMusic]

@@frantsel5711 Around a year. so funny reading this now 8 months later. Lol my stint back with Ableton didn’t last too long. Been going back and forth again with hardware/software and now using a hybrid of Loopy Pro on the iPad and the Deluge. I guess I can’t resist shiny new objects.

[@frantsel5711]

@@JoshElliottMusic interesting. I think the octatrack or elektron devices shine more when more time is put into it. A pretty experienced producer told me once it took him 2 years to make a track with the octa. I have mine now for a year or so and im still learning on a daily basis. And it gets better and better. On some days I speedrun new ideas just to build muscle memory. Its a fantastic machine when it comes to performance. Tho it definately takes alot time most ppl dont have. One year is the bear minimum imo..

[@JoshElliottMusic]

@@frantsel5711 yea. The OT is great. I’ve bought and sold it twice now so I have about a total of two years into it and feel pretty comfortable although there are still obviously endless layers to unlock. I regret it every time I sold it

[@GarthVader666]

I’ve just done the same thing. Just over a year ago, I sold my Maschine to buy an Octatrack, an Analog Heat, Korg Minilogue, Roland Mc707, a bunch of little drum machines, as well as a bunch of little pedals and stuff. Yesterday, I sold my last piece of outboard kit and ordered a Maschine Mk3. It is by far the fastest and smoothest workflow that I’ve used.

[@fuzbeats]

I love playing on my circuit. I'm a software dev and I don't like sitting on a PC while making music. To think that dawless, or going analog is better is just stupid. It's a flavour. Everyone should try both things out. The main thing is, what is your main "muse" to get your inspiration. I never laid my hands on my circuit without coming up with sonething.

[@DylanParisMusic]

Heck yeah! I think that's a super good mentality, really good to think about the different styles as flavors! Thanks for watching :)

[@bjamminsincebirth3494]

I would love to try the Circuit but I really want the chord portion of that software to be better like the way the Push works.

[@tricks-and-tips]

Well said :) I get the same feeling with my 707. But I also love to work in Reason and that usually leads to a finished track instead of hours of fun. Both are great options to have if you ask me.

[@wavelengthrecords-1]

Circuit sucks.

[@ShineRecordings]

My Setup has only a MacBook Pro, Maschine MK3 and Push2. Producing in the box gives you such a freedom to invest your time wisely. There is tones of nice Soft Synth, FX, Sounds, etc.. I don't need any piece of Hardware for my production skills

[@DylanParisMusic]

Been getting really into Ableton again with a launchpad x and really loving the in the box workflow.

[@HanjoSynth]

Great topic! I started with GarageBand on an iPhone with a little controller and my setup has grown in 2 years into Ableton with Push, an iPad Pro full of apps and several hardware synths and groove boxes. Ableton is the pro software no doubt and I understand is a obvious choice to create finalized tracks, but the workflow feels dated. iPad is the most versatile but not the most enjoyable or reliable. I find the most pleasure in the combination of hardware with the iPad, and some Ableton mixing. I can’t really have it any other way now....

[@RomanWave]

Same situation, man! I had octatrack mk2, force, mpc live 2, op-1, op-z, sp-404, sp-555, all volcas, many modular shit, synths… etc., I’ve sold most of my gear, left some nord keys and a couple of boxes I really use, but most of my production is going in ableton live, and the main reason is passion to make music and not swarm in different kind of boxes.

[@DylanParisMusic]

The gear is so exciting but I usually find I do my best work in daws. A hybrid approach with a controller usually gives me the groovebox feeling with the power of a daw.

[@kurisuchiinathecrocodile333]

well. some people can do amazing music with just, e.g., octatrack +a4 (check out live sets by Nicholas Lem). for others such approach does not work and they need "studio" approach. All good as long you have fun and/or get music done :)

[@polakuu]

I wanna build a simple dawless setup to get away from the screen (1x sampler/synth/sequencer) but also use a DAW to finish songs.

[@mariusle3385]

I prefer a hybrid setup, but I guess completle dawless with big mixer feels nicer? But then I would arange it also afterwards in the PC. In general I think its important to use your body, for example buying a stand/rack to do some parts while standing so you can also move your whole body while jamming / producing etc So my DAW is the Masterclock. From there I control my Sequencers via Overbridge (Elektron Analog four and Analog Rytm) First I setup an Template Inside of my DAW. I cut out the frequencies below 35Hz since most devices cant reproduce lower frequencies and it takes a lot of headroom. Thats like the only thing I can do before the main process starts if I want it clean. Maybe adding some effects already like some reverb if needed or doing other Mixing parts already so that the mix sounds nicer while jamming. Then I go outside of the box and start jamming with my gear while Recording it to my DAW were I afterwards arange etc. Since Elektron devices have overbridge u can easily record every track at the same time seperately over USB and add all effects of your DAW. Thats perfect if u dont have an audiointerface with 12 tracks and a 12 track mixer. So you dont need a ton of money to get a good setup. My way to go would be a powerfull sequencer like the "Elektron" ones or a "Cirklon 2 Hardware Sequencer" and Some synths around it if needed. Not too much, less is more and distracts only. Elektron devices can be complicated if you are not already really good with your DAW / sound design / understanding ocillators/how sound synthesis works / understanding how mixing works, which frequencies work (low end etc) how to create a good sound spectrum, understanding what swing and groove is, that u dont have to perfectly place the notes, all slightly off with variations to get subtle organic sound ( basic stuff but a good foundation that makes the process easier if u know the theorie ) Elektron sequencer is so powerfull for me if I want to translate my creative impulse immediately and feel what I created and I can tell by my body language if its good, instead of clicking with a mouse, there I feel nothing and music is about feeling it and having fun in the process, for me the process with a mouse only is super uninspiring. Mouse is for the mixing part in ableton afterwars. U translate your ideas/creative impulses via jamming and do the rest in the pc. So its like 2 Parts : p1: Jamming outside of the DAW while recording and mix p2: Arangement/Mixing sounddesign kinda afterwards in Ableton There are KZbin Channels were they Interview known/less known producers in the electronic scene. They talk about their setup and how they work etc. its reaaaally inspring. If you want to check out: www.youtube.com/@ElectronicBeatsTV Look for their "Tech-Talks" or "One to watch" www.youtube.com/@ThomannSynthesizers Look for the Playlist "Artist Features" www.youtube.com/@Factmag Look for "Against the clock" Cheers

[@korywesterhold]

Great video Dylan! And best of luck on your journey to the iPad Pro :) I’ve been a daily iPad user since day one back in 2010 and it’s such an incredible tool/instrument for getting ideas out. The distance between inspiration, or even wanting to explore or get lost in sound, and actually doing and creating is essentially zero-which just can’t really be said for hardware. Sure you can have your entire studio wired in a way where you can just turn things on and start playing, but it’s just not the same. As an owner of lots of vintage synths and drum machines I’ve even began questioning whether I need them beyond the pride of owning them. Having loved the iPad as much as I do, and believing it to be a true bridge between the tactility of hardware and software, I actually moved over to a Surface Studio as my main production computer last year AND ITS BEEN INCREDIBLE. I’ve been wanting to do a rundown, or profile, of the experience but just haven’t really found the time-but touch-based “in the box” music creation definitively feels like the future ❤️❤️❤️

[@DylanParisMusic]

Awesome to hear about your workflow and setup! Thanks for watching my video!

[@illegalgiant_]

Thanks for sharing dude. I haven't yet finished the video but in the 1st min youre really speaking to me. The physicality is cool, but damn its so expensive and wow so many headaches trying to get them to 'work'

[@JamesBermingham]

Great Video.. Im at that very crossroads .. of do I persevere with hardware and keep the dawless side set up, or do I fully re commit to Ableton and Push 2. I'm currently paralysed by analysis that I've come to a complete halt. After watching your vid, I'm leaning toward selling all my HW and upgrading my computer to Apple M2 and fully committing to Ableton and my Push. So much of what you said here resonates with me now. I need to get back to making music instead of continually learning new Hardware shit and being frustrated and tired. I feel something new is on the horizon from Ableton very soon. They've been pushing out regular point updates to Live and have been quite active on their socials recently too. So I feel a possible Ableton Hardware interface is imminent. And I do love that workflow. I've definitely been a sucker to GAS in the last 3 years with all the shiny new music toy videos that the YT algorithm keeps feeding me. 😀

[@DylanParisMusic]

I ended up going with a hybrid approach, finishing my songs in Ableton but starting most of them on hardware devices. I also try not to sell gear as much anymore as I usually regret it. This was an interesting moment in my gear journey for sure though.

[@JamesBermingham]

@@DylanParisMusic Great to hear. Thanks for the update 👍

[@lwpweb]

yes i use the ipad as final masterpiece in dawless gear environment with a chain of fabfilter mastereffects mbc, eq, etc... very affordable...and i can control fabfilter parameters via hardware knobs midi cc from my keystep pro :-)

[@LoVeAmBiEnT]

I have a few synths, blofeld, microfreak, and a few korg volca's.... I use them for strictly ambient stuff along with my guitar /pedalboard. If i want to make more intricate stuff (house techno) then I go strait to Reason or Ableton.. And it's all in the box. I can work sooooooo much faster in a DAW.. That's what I do! I get it tho .. I will say that my library of vst's is getting ridiculous so much good stuff out there ..

[@DylanParisMusic]

honestly I think folks should do whatever works for them and makes them happy! I ended up getting a maschine plus so this video is now slightly outdated haha

[@LoVeAmBiEnT]

@@DylanParisMusic yeah man whatever works for you or whatever you have the most fun doing I guess

[@euskace]

I guess it depends on how robust the music creation environment is. If I encounter unexpected shutdowns multiple times in a day, maybe I'll miss the hardware. OS/Software updates are sometimes nightmares. Personally, I love to create music on iPad, it's simply fun and imaginative.

[@DylanParisMusic]

Yeah I feel like I've definitely made a video about how you can't trust the iPad but I'm ready to hurt again haha (and seriously they are getting really good)

[@euskace]

@@DylanParisMusic Haha yeah I'm already getting my hands dirty with iPad apps and feel they're getting improved. Actually, I got the new iPad Pro and really love it so far. I connect it to my Mac with 1 USB cable then enable it as an audio device in Audio MIDI Setup. Then it can behave like a midi device with an audio interface. I thought I needed to connect an audio interface to the iPad directly. But it’s not. An iPad can use an audio interface and midi devices connected to a Mac. Whoa! I’m glad I find I don’t have to buy a Thunderbolt dock or USB-C hub for the iPad. I know there are some limitations in this setup like I can’t capture iPad screen/Audio via Quicktime Player while it’s recognized as an audio device. but it’s totally okay. I got some apps for making my setup more comfortable. Rogue Amoeba Loopback: for monitoring the iPad’s sound without DAW (routing the iPad audio output to an audio interface connected to my Mac) MIDI Patchbay: for routing midi signal to the iPad without DAW

[@DylanParisMusic]

That's awesome! Definitely missing that with a PC laptop

[@piercemcintyre1327]

I do 100% agree that a lot can get done with any set up whatever it is, and sometimes I really like using modules and a sequencer and getting lost in it, and other times I find that software can provide me with more surprises and wider variations for exploration, and I appreciate both, o would however say how incredibly important it is to keep things simple either way, and to reign in the desire to continually expand the tool set, as you describe the learning curve for getting comfortable with new tools, is way underestimated even getting used to where hardware devices are arranged on your workspace is a learning curve in itself.

[@infriad]

Very interesting topic! I’m in a similar position. Have been making music on the iPad for a while but lately I've been buying a lot of gear, like the MC-101, Cobalt8M, RE-303, RD-8, RD-6 and the most recently I bought the Octatrack MK II. I’ve wanted that box since it came out. I really like to look at all my gear, but if I use it in a dawless setup it doesn't even come close to the things I've produced on the iPad only in terms of sound quality. I love to learn new gear, and that’s a part of the creative process. But I feel a lot better when I’ve been composing on the iPad for a couple of hours compared to hours of sound-mangling on the octatrack. I’ll give the octa one year before I sell it because it's so deep and takes a long time to learn but I’m also leaning more and more towards software only.. I’ve been trying Ableton 11 lately and it’s really good but as a developer I can’t stand sitting in front of a computer more than I already do.

[@DylanParisMusic]

Man the Octatrack is something that has always eluded me but looks just so cool if you can figure it out. Definitely seems like the right call to give it time. Would be sick to create stuff on ipad and then export stems to the octa. I also totally feel you about screen stuff, working in enterprise IT i'm on a screen all day too and it's definitely a factor but so far it's been okay.

[@HorstDerHoden22]

Do you think of Maschine Mk3 as dawless? I think it has the best of both worlds.

[@DylanParisMusic]

I don't think of it as dawless but I do think it's super rad!

[@sidl.1442]

Really interesting thoughts, looking forward to your upcoming episodes. I totally see your point of going dawless-less, I just couldn't recreate this creative, spontaneous jamming atmosphere in a purely digital world. In my approach this is fundamental to produce new ideas and feel rather "in motion" rather than "constructing from a distance". Wow, no idea if that even makes sense haha

[@DylanParisMusic]

Haha no I get you! There are definitely benefits to the dawless style

[@brunosco]

Makes sense to me too. 🙂

[@calebpromusician98]

I just got to say if the workflow is what you like then do not listen to what other people say you need just use what works for you i have been a piano player for 13 years so hardware works better for me but having a computer on hand has saved me a lot with changing what the hardware can do but for you software may be better to use or more portable for example some people will need something more portable wile some people set it up and leave it because they only use it in one place and if you are getting good ideas and Renaults from your setup then keep it around sorry for any typing errors

[@Getthenderson]

Watching this with a thumbnail of you with a Machine Plus uploaded 5 hours ago right next to it. The search continues...

[@DylanParisMusic]

Hahahaha all my videos end up horribly outdated

[@TJ-bx5px]

Love real Hardware. Pc screen, mouse keyboard endlessly presents, endless plugins is booring.. Akai Force, for sampling and drums, and a few harware synthesizers, is all u need!!

[@JakeSweeper]

Column A, column B... I'm trying to find that nice sweet spot, especially as my day job doesn't allow me to take a lot of gear, nor leave me a lot of time pull out my PC or iPad.

[@ta3p-theannex3project84]

I use a hardware workstation, yamaha modx as basis and hardware synths on top of it. Record it realtime on Zoom-r16 . Only mix the sound on the computer, mostly with Audicity. ☺

[@DylanParisMusic]

Rad setup!

[@karlhoward2737]

Paradoxically if I was not watching this very interesting video, I might be sitting down and start creating music…..think I need a complete switch off from KZbin, even though it’s so damn addictive…..

[@DylanParisMusic]

Haha you gotta find that balance for sure, appreciate your view but don't wanna keep you from your creativity

[@domingoleija3436]

I am learning AUM to apply all my fun music apps on iPad but I definitely find immediate satisfaction from my hardware basix. One Cobalt, a few Volcas, and model: Cycles for instant beats that come to mind. Next to my bed n ready🎼👑

[@DylanParisMusic]

That sounds like an awesome setup

[@fleximarvellous]

Guys, dawless is a method that helps you approach your goal on it’s own way, and it’s a lifestyle that you choose to live with. Don’t expect to buy dawless to improve your production quality over Daws and plugins. (It does help boost your creativity though)

[@rrrobart9]

Excited for you Dylan. Can’t wait to hear about it!

[@MarkGardner66Bonnie]

First time seeing your channel...and I get it completely in regards to your hardware vs software music production...I have both, but as you mentioned, the time it takes to learn new hardware can be so frustrating. I use a Mac with Logic and it is my go top for music production though I have several synths and drum machines as well...great job...I will have to follow up on how your using the iPad went. Thank you

[@DylanParisMusic]

Thanks for watching! I have gone back to some dawless gear since I made this but the balance of both is really nice

[@bjamminsincebirth3494]

I been recording with Koala Sampler, IPhone 11 Pro Max, my bass and guitar, AUM, and IRig Pro . Some of my favorite songs I’ve made are from Simple Gear. IPad and IPhone.

[@DylanParisMusic]

So cool! I'm always super impressed with folks who do IPhone production. Henny talked about IPhone folks being the future

[@johnsuggs3952]

I went to DAW based systems and stayed there. I'm from a time when there was no DAWs. DAW systems and VST plugins are less expensive and portable. If you have a strong enough computer, you can literally take your entire studio with you anywhere.

[@DylanParisMusic]

Totally! I have started just keeping both dawless and daw gear around, but the only dawless stuff I like is daw in a box type gear cause I miss too many features with simpler synths and grooveboxes.

[@tricks-and-tips]

Cool to see where you are at right now. As there is no 'right or wrong', I think whatever inspires you is what matters the most. I actually like working in both environments a lot and love to have both options when I'm stuck in one or the other. And the hardware synths that I have are also used with the DAW a lot because that just works great. And in many ways better when it comes to productivity and flexibility compared to using them with my 707! But right now there is still an area for the 707 has 'earned' its place on my time, space and money budget and that is the sheer amount of fun and creativity it gives me. I totally get your point of diving deep into any hardware (or software) and focus focus focus instead of diversify and I have mentioned it before that I forced myself to make at least 50 projects with any piece of hardware before considering selling it. I know my way around my 707 quite well (still a lot to learn though) and that gives me the freedom do make what's in my mind without thinking too much about it. Not saying I will never get any other hardware after my current setup, but for now it works magic for me.

[@DylanParisMusic]

I always appreciate your insight on these vids :] I do think trading the MC 707 for the Wavestate was probably my biggest gear "mistake" of all time. I'm not gonna go out and buy a new one but that machine was awesome and I think it integrates with DAWs in a really special way too

[@PaulBreitzmann]

I'm just starting to tinker with "dawless" gear, but I'm pretty sure I have no intention of going without a computer / ipad. I got a Circuit Tracks as a tactile "sketch pad", but I often find myself missing sounds. Maybe I need to work on packs a bit, but so far that seems like a chore when I just want to play. I have taken to piping two soft synths/samplers from my iPad panned left and right through the headphone jack onto the midi tracks. It gets me some of the hands on control I'm looking for, but it's rough around the edges. The transport controls don't work well since AUM doesn't take clock in, and I feel like I'm missing some cc buttons for a little extra control on my virtual instruments. I think my best bet is to spend absurd amounts of time and money building my own custom controllers, rather than buying dawless instruments with polished workflow and resale value.

[@DylanParisMusic]

The struggle is real! I had some decent luck with OP Z and aum, using the OP Z just to sequence

[@PaulBreitzmann]

Several Dylan and Cuckoo videos later and I miiight want a zed? ;) Hadn’t thought about it filling that hard sequencer / soft synth controller role. I’m definitely saving up for a Push2, but I’d love to find an iPad equivalent. Oooor see early adopter speculation references and just use my Push 2 on my iPad with Ableton!

[@HanjoSynth]

@@PaulBreitzmann I’d say launchpad Pro MK3 gets pretty close to push for an iPad daw, like beatmaker 3 or LK on AUM.

[@DylanParisMusic]

I'm so beyond honored to be in the same sentence as Cuckoo :] I think LK + a launchpad miiiight be like the push experience. I'll buy an X and test it and get back to the channel about it in the future :]

[@HOLLASOUNDS]

I have a Mininova Synthesizer and it's just for fun as in serves no purpose in My music production as it's easier to emulate it's sound in a Daw to midi vs trying use a recorded sound from the Mininova.

[@DylanParisMusic]

Fun factor is underrated!

[@HOLLASOUNDS]

@@DylanParisMusic Indeed

[@Indiegoldmedia]

Truly love your perspective

[@DylanParisMusic]

Thank you 🙏🙌😎

[@complexity5545]

2023-2024, you made the correct choice. The new MPC gear is unreliable; way more bugs than a DAW. Its insane. They got worse.

[@Notte_Bocks]

An iPad 5 + Novation AudioHub + 3 controller .. and you have a free configurable AUM „GROOVEBOX“ with 2 stereo (or 4 mono) outputs .. and all those beautiful apps to play with .. 🤗 😳 uoops .. limited by performance 🧐 .. !? Just use it as an advanced „drummaschine“ + have another iPad for the synths .. 😎 (right now I work with (3) iPads, a bunch of controllers and a mixer ..) btw.. I love Ableton link 🌶

[@DylanParisMusic]

Oh snap that's a cool setup!!

[@Expectaz]

Curious to see what you’re going to do with the new ipad! Just got a second force here to be able to do longer sets.. Tacktile feel is something I feel is lacking on an iPad.. The iPad is of course more powerful

[@DylanParisMusic]

You do amazing stuff with the Force! I think hardware is working for you super well :]

[@Expectaz]

@@DylanParisMusic Thx Dylan! Your previous jams on the ipad were amazing so that’s working for you!

[@snörre23]

I started in the 90s with 808/606/303/101 MS20 - unfortunately sold those long ago - but never tried a DAW. Looking at Tutorials or trying a Demo i am absolutely overwhelmed by DAWs, would take me months in front of a screen. "Sound quality" sure, 808+303 through a Jordan Fuzz into a Guitar Amp, thats my idea of sound quality.

[@NetvoTV]

I'm new to music making but I not sure where to start, there are so many type of device, tracker, sampler, comproser, sequencer and so on, I think M8 Tracker is good for me to start and bring anywhere but then I see people don't do all in just one device but connect a few, one say he will connect this to the M8 but why, how about those MIDI keyboard like the OP-1 Field and OP-Z, I love these design as well but not sure where to start, I want to make futuristic modern music, soundtrack from something like Tenet, Tron and Blade Runner plus game like Wipeout flying car games and also want to make game element effects, is there benefit to get any of these and not just use Garageband and Logic Pro with their virtual synthesizer and library of sounds already recorded over the internet? Should I focus on Garageband and get Apple education price software include Logic Pro now, or get M8 Tracker to use anywhere and later get a OP-Z or OP-1 Field as keyboard or just use iPhone as keyboard? Do these velocity and pressure sensitive keys are needed and software can't do?

[@NetvoTV]

Is M8 Tracker a true dawless becuase it is still screen driven with mechanical keys which can be done on laptop too?

[@DylanParisMusic]

I highly recommend starting with GarageBand and learning some basics there if you have access to it. I don’t recommend an OP 1 field at all for what you want to do, and the m8 looks awesome but is a full blown tracker which is a very different workflow. Over the years after this video I definitely got back into dawless gear but I now use both daws and dawless. I recommend learning a daw first but if there is a piece of gear that speaks to you and that inspires you to make stuff, if you can safely afford it that can be a fun way to learn too!

[@GavinVickery]

Two years later, it looks like you have hardware again. Not trying to call you out. Just curious what changed? What did you miss? You doing hybrid now? I’ve had a similar experience.

[@DylanParisMusic]

Yeah definitely took a hybrid route and started 90 percent following a philosophy of not selling any gear when possible to stop the churn

[@keysersoze4851]

how does it feel after 3 years? happy? regrets?

[@bjamminsincebirth3494]

A stand-alone Push would be for sure a great buy.

[@DylanParisMusic]

Agreed!

[@JakeSweeper]

Isn't that almost what the Force is? From what I've been told it can open, modify, and even create Live projects, so it sounds pretty close. :)

[@bjamminsincebirth3494]

@@JakeSweeper I guess but I don’t like Akai stuff.

[@Jack_von_Baron]

This is the problem with people nowadays: it either go completely in-the-box or completely DAWless. You know you can have hardware and use a DAW as well. Ultimately, the sound is the most important thing to get out of hardware. I can argue that everything works faster in a DAW and/or a VSTi. Anyways, I never understand the hype of grooveboxes or one of those tiny ass synths. Honestly, most of them are so menu-divey with a huge learning curve. It doesn't matter if they give you a few knobs to fiddle with, in the end, you are spending way too much time trying to find where all parameters are bc they aren't clearly laid out on the surface. That said, I do agree on the point that hardware invites you more into making patches, refining synthesis techniques etc. I'm a hardware keyboard and rack module guy myself. The thing is that most of my synths have a clear layout of where everything is (although they don't have to be knobby). A carefully design hardware shouldn't require a steep learning curve; if you know the basics of synthesis, you should be able to start making sounds right away, and that's more important. Additionally, although these modern groove boxes sounded good but not commercially good. That's why a lotta these so-called "jams" and whatnot on YT sounded like a mud fest, bc they have zero production value.

[@DylanParisMusic]

Yeah that's the wild thing about making weekly youtube videos is I truly meant this video when I made it but I now have a much more hybrid approach in the year plus since I made this video.

[@synthseeker]

Would you say that the time investment for learning a hardware instrument is more, less, or the same as the time investment for learning a software instrument?

[@DylanParisMusic]

It's hard to say, a single groovebox is probably quicker than a full DAW, I just already had years of DAW experience before I started trying dawless stuff

[@jameskellam2980]

Just go modular, then you can make better bleeps and bloops and gurgles. Seriously, check out eddie ewi and his frog music.

[@triggerpeter]

I think at the end of the day we'll go into a daw. But for me hardware is much more fun. And there are almost no compatibility issues after 20 years. I hate software updates. But for multitrack recording and mixing there's no other way, i go with daw!

[@DylanParisMusic]

Yeah my mind has changed a whole lot since this video, I'm basically 50/50 hybrid now

[@nastied]

Your Channel is in my top 10 YT list and I sub to 700 channels lol :)

[@DylanParisMusic]

I'm so honored! Thank you for watching!

[@FunkTree]

I see... so there is no learning curve for all those app you’ve mentioned...? ohh an wait when apple decides to skip updating or removing some core technologies from OS, Also most of the cool stuff on iPad was removed due to compatibility and don’t ask me to list them, almost two pages of music apps disappeared after update to I think IOS 11 ... I could go on and on DAW vs DAWless but ...you and Jeremy are right time is money, cheers mate

[@KurtLorenz]

I hear you!

[@Johanthegnarler]

People spend more time on their process, devices, and software than getting better at music. That's why most of the music on social media is garbage or watered down mediocrity in this space

[@AllyMobbs]

interesting points

[@christophercarter1912]

Every time I make a track with Reason 11 on surface pro 4, I've think about selling all my gear,except the Deluge🤣

[@DylanParisMusic]

Understandable!

[@colourbasscolourbassweapon2135]

I use both

[@DylanParisMusic]

Nice! In the years since I made this video I have grown to do the same

[@DopamineOverload]

Well-said, all.

[@DylanParisMusic]

Thank you :]

[@tomblaze2]

Wowza

[@mikemaltby]

My two cents: as a newbie to music production (last October) I did a lot of reading/watching regarding standalone hardware and more DAW reliant hardware. Based on that I determined that Maschine MK3 was a good starting point for me and I think that still holds true. I can explore sounds and bang out ideas very quickly on the MK3 without looking up, but can still go deeper on the computer after the fact when I need to - and I would imagine the experience is similar with something like Push 2. I do think you’re right about M1 iPads opening the door to far more powerful music apps, and personally I think things like Logic Remote for iPad are a good indicator of what’s coming (WWDC? 🤞). Great vid, Dylan, I always enjoy your insights on gear 👍

[@DylanParisMusic]

Thanks you for watching! Yeah the Maschine is awesome and a really good bridge device, fully agreed. I think if I had started with it vs Ableton I'd feel the same level of attachment to it as the push for similar reasons

[@domingoleija3436]

Sneak your music in the background of your speech amigo🎼👑

[@DylanParisMusic]

For sure, I don’t make a ton of music that works as background noise and it’s hard to get the motivation to make custom stuff. Sometimes I use KZbin library music but most of the time I just talk and let the content speak for itself

[@DylanParisMusic]

Hopefully for my next album I’ll have the instrumentals for each song I can use. My last one my mixing engineer couldn’t provide them

[@patrickbodine1300]

I sold all my DAW oriented gear and have *no* regrets.

[@DylanParisMusic]

Rad! I have definitely been getting back into dawless stuff

[@samanderson806]

Zune was awesome.

[@DylanParisMusic]

Agreed!

[@LaurentDiscShowMan]

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAAAA...I encourage people with the musical matter...no one will be at my level but hey...I really am a true professional in this matter...I am the most advanced and one of the few worldwide speaking to be at the forefront and Being one of the elite of the latest movement... Being a Disc Show Man as I say to myself is being the Evolution of the Disc Jockey... of the Electronic Music Producer... of the latest and most advanced Musical Composer... of the New Live Interpretation and the latest in MIDIS Configurations in Musical Devices... Totally the most Advanced and Complete of the entire Subject today... I've been here all my life and that's why others are surprised by me and I've evolved over the years constantly and I follow until I have finished with the matter doing my Direct Sessions which is like a Disc Jockey session but with my own music... I mix, combine, play as a musician etc... Well friends I encourage you to continue with the music and let's have good moments of happiness...

[@Claidheambmor]

Random guy sold all his stuff. Wow.

[@DylanParisMusic]

The world will never be the same 🤣

[@LaurentDiscShowMan]

JAJAJAJAJAJAJAAAA...Animo gentes con el asunto musical...ninguno estara a mi nivel pero bueno...Yo realmente soy un autentico profesional de este asunto..soy el mas avanzado y de los pocos mundialmente hablando en estar en la vanguardia y ser de la elite de la ultima movida..Ser Disc Show Man como yo me digo es ser la Evolucion del Disc Jockey..del Productor Musical Electronico..de lo ultimo y mas avanzado en Compositor Musical..de la Nueva Interpretacion en Directo y lo ultimo en Configuraciones MIDIS en Aparatos Musicales...Total el mas Avanzado y Completo de todo el Asunto de hoy en dia..llevo toda mi vida y por eso se sorprenden los de mas conmigo y e ido evolucionando a lo largo de los años constastemente y a un sigo a un que yo ya termine con el asunto haciendo mis Direct Sesiones que es como una sesion de Disc Jockey pero con mi propia musica...Mexclo,combino,toco como musico etc...Bien amigos os animo a que sigais con la musica y demos buenos momentos de felicidad...

[@Asdrubale01]

totally dislike

[@DylanParisMusic]

If it’s any consolation this only lasted a few months before I got back into gear lol

[@Asdrubale01]

@@DylanParisMusic i hate daws bro. and i cry when i sell an instrument...a synth is something more like a guitar or a bass, that's a real instrument with a soul. computer is so different.

[@DylanParisMusic]

I’ve started to hold on to most of my gear now that I can afford to. It definitely has a magic to it

[@nullandvoid7881]

haha seeing this follow up made me smile, I have been going back and forth on this same issue and it's nice to see others flipping back and forth too!

[@tahiche.]

You’re right on about physical controls, unbeatable... but there’s absolutely no reason to merge both worlds... here’s a discussion where I talk about an “Elektron iPad” forum.audiob.us/discussion/41187/turn-ipad-into-a-hardware-device-elektron-ipad These hardware devices are in essence a computer + screen + software + casing with hardware controls. It’s the integration and proposed workflow that make them so enjoyable. But an iPad is an amazing screen with superior processing power... Just make the app and sell the controller to go with it!. MPc live, a Maschine+... an iPad with a specific app and hardware control would be far superior!. It’s so wrong that there’s no Maschine for iPad, doesn’t make sense. Then you have things like the Roland Verselab, supposedly integrates with Zenbeats... it’s stupid. It uses the iPad as an editor for the hardware instead of providing hardware control for Zenbeats, when the iPad app is vastly more capable than the hardware...

[@DylanParisMusic]

RIght?? We're so friggin close to this I think with the m1 hitting the ipad pros. I would love a true hardware / software setup with ipad designed to take full advantage of the hardware.

[@Lindial]

There are many reasons to merge the two. I've spent 20 years learning hardware synths, samplers, using oldschool trackers, sequencers. Learning music theory and using the majority of DAWs about today. I've gone round in circles until I finally grasped whatever i was trying to develop at the time and worked seriously hard to understand all these things and I couldn't live without a mixture of everything. Oh I also studied sound engineering.. There are benefits to everything invented so far, it's just about what you're personally after with your own music.

[@HanjoSynth]

Great topic! I started with GarageBand on an iPhone with a little controller and my setup has grown in 2 years into Ableton with Push, an iPad Pro full of apps and several hardware synths and grooveboxes. Ableton is the pro software no doubt and I understand is a obvious choice to create finalized tracks, but the workflow feels dated. iPad is the most versatile but not the most enjoyable or reliable. I find the most pleasure in the combination of hardware with the iPad, and some Ableton mixing. I can’t really have it any other way now....

[@DylanParisMusic]

Hell yeah! Yeah I think Ableton can feel a little stale sometimes, although it is super powerful. AUM + LK + AUV3s feels like a modular future dream