MODERN OVERHYPED/OVERPRICED KEYBOARDS

[@barrelofbugs]

bold video in a land where many just shill for free gear on youtube.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

You said it, and I'm glad that someone other than me said it. I've turned down offers of sponsorship, because I simply couldn't say something was "The best ever, or even that it was worth buying" when it was truly a piece of cr@p. I'm open to sponsorship, but it's got to be a good product. Thanks!!!

[@SlaserX]

Seriously, man is spitting facts

[@alenprstec5644]

Hm.. what about arrangers; new psr sx920 over 2200$ with keybed of Casio which costs 200$😅

[@DXpheus]

Still having a blast programming, playing and discovering new things from my 1983 DX7

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

That's awesome. I believe there are still many undiscovered sounds in the DX7. Thanks for the comment.

[@djdksf1]

Gonna join in on the Osmose defense fund here, Jeffrey. It's something you really need to play to understand, and it also helps if you can really play. It's not a gimmick in any way. It's a bonafide new kind of instrument. I've had mine for about a year. Even as a classically trained piano player, the minute I laid hands on the Osmose, I knew instantly that this was a different animal entirely. The poly AT is just the beginning. The sensitivity on the keyboard is like 200% more exact and detailed than anything I've ever played. It emotes literally the minute you touch the keyboard. Playing ensemble sounds becomes an entirely different experience, and I'm sorry, but plugging a pedal in (or even using a D-beam, ribbon or the like) is not the same as having that level of control under the fingers of a skilled player. And the pressure glide feature allows me to convincingly play phrases like a string player, and I've had multiple talented string players (guitarists, cellists) express amazement at what I can do with it. And I consider myself somewhat of an expert with a pitch wheel. The MPE arp is also a game changer that needs to be PLAYED, not read about. Magic when connected to analog gear. It's just not a keyboard you buy on specs. You lay your hands on it and if you get it, you get it. If you don't, you don't. It's also just beginning to evolve and will improve vastly over the next few years. AND, that said, I'm also a big proponent of pure analog and just received my Moog Muse after a month-long wait and it is EPIC. Really, almost better than the hype would've led me to believe. With my Rev2 and Osmose (and a Crumar Seven for all things electro) I'm stacked beyond any dreams I had as a teenager when I bought my first synth.

[@matthewgaines10]

You don't need to play it to understand the operational principles. You can assign pitch and mod wheels to do what it does. You talking about feelings, not what can be accomplished.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

I appreciate what you are saying, thank you for your thoughtful comment.

[@SallySparks]

Totally agree.

[@tomeaton435]

@@matthewgaines10 pitch and mod wheels do not operate on a note by note basis. The Osmose is about putting control in the finger that's playing the note. It's like a cello or violin ... you are in control of the dynamics and pitch on an ongoing per-note basis throughout the duration of the note.

[@djdksf1]

@@matthewgaines10 Well, I mean... playing IS about feelings, not operational checkboxes, no? I play quite differently on a $60k Steinway concert grand than I do on an eighty year-old beat up parlor piano. The big breakthrough with Osmose isn't it's MIDI functionality, it's the way it transforms how you actually interact with that functionality.

[@justinmelland3846]

Nice! As a professional film composer, I'm stoked to see you cutting through the nonsense in the synth market! I've been using this stuff in high pressure situations enough to know exactly what I need from a keyboard: Iconic/unique sound, easy customization of sounds, and rock solid, reliable performance. I never owned many of these, but the only two that I have owned, I happily sold while they were still "cool". I do have a handful of very expensive synths that sound unbelievable. Stunning in how wonderful they are. Suprising that they can be both simple and incredibly irreplaceable. Would I buy them if I wasn't doing big budget scores... no way. but since I am, I need them to achieve my vision. The best synth a person can buy is the Hydrasynth. It's the only synth you need. I could do my entire career with just that. Great opinions!

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

I get lots of comments and recommendations on the Hydrasynth, and my best friend recently bought one. Thanks for the comment.

[@lospopularos]

Excellent review! I fully agree with at least seven of these lemons, particularly the Nord dud. Years ago I was struck by its bold red color so I had to try one. Boy, was I in shock! I couldn't believe how people got taken in by this overpriced fiasco. Thank you!

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Yeah, I scratch my head at the prices folks pay for under-spec'd Nord products. Thanks for the comment.

[@thirstyCactus]

I recently got a used 3rd Wave desktop. It's an excellent synth, and well engineered. Top-notch specs, and no detectable aliasing, even though it is a digital synth (with analog filters). I agree that the factory presets are drowned in effects, but I find that it shines, even with simple 1 oscillator patches with no effects. The variable-state filter really sucks, but the analog 4-pole LPF is nice. The wavetable section is really excellent. It creates the exact, lovely imaging artifacts as Prophet VS, if selected.

[@regnifelrub]

I own five of these keyboards and still feel entertained 😆.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

I appreciate that. I did make sure to say towards the end of the video, that I think they all sound good, and they do. You're a lucky guy to own five of them. Thanks for the comment.

[@skyko]

I think he's laughing AT you not with you.

[@StevenCusic]

Man I'm with you on this 100% Gear i use is stuff like the Roland - FANTOM-08, the Kronos 2 ,Yamaha DX7IIFD, Yamaha mu2000Ex and a Edirol SD90. Than for other sounds I'll use plugins like the SQ-80 vst etc and a lot of other stuff have pretty well made sound fonts that i can modify though i really would like to pick up a NS5Rr. so all together and shopping smart everything i have is the price of a single 1 of those pieces of equipment and have the whole spectrum covered.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

We have some of the same gear. Thanks for the comment.

[@Drmarcelofon]

Yes….. this is it…. 😊

[@Angelstarscotland]

I agree with you in the main and I like your videos. On the Osmose though it's not Polyphonic Aftertouch it's MPE which is much better than Poly AT. It's a totally different thing.... and a totally different level of expression, much more than what you could do with a pedal. I tried one at Superbooth and the control you get is totally immense way beyond a Hydrasynth Deluxe(Which I own) . The built in sound engine isn't great and that's what has put me off me getting one. I agree with you on the point how much do we actually need these things.... I had a Roli a few years back and I loved it great fun to play. It went faulty and I had to send it back to get repaired. Over than time period I just got out of the habit of using it and when it came back I used it about 3 times in 6 months. I sold it..... I kind of regret it though

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

I appreciate your thoughtful comment, and that you didn't personally attack me like other folks. I understand MPE, and I do recognize its unique attributes. On "how much do we really need these things" I believe we agree. I can see the attraction for some folks. I have played the Roli, and it was interesting. Thanks for the comment.

[@Angelstarscotland]

@@JeffreyScottPetro I’m sorry to hear that you’ve experienced personal abuse, I don’t personally understand why people feel the need to behave that way. Unfortunately if you are going to make any kind of video that contains any kind of controversy that’s going to happen, unfortunately that’s the way of the world. I’ve had it many times for playing Keytar which is apparently considered controversial…..

[@pyko5100]

Over the years, I’ve bought and sold many synths, trying to find the perfect fit. Some, like the Waldorf Quantum, Moog One, Sub 37, and Matriarch, didn’t quite resonate with me. I’ve also cycled through nearly every Roland poly, ultimately keeping only the MKS-70, the MKS-80 rev4 and the JD-800. Each piece adds its own character, but I’ve focused on keeping the ones that truly stand out to me. Some of my long-term favorites are the Prophet 12 and Hydrasynth Deluxe, while other acquisitions, like the Prophet 10 (both the keyboard and desktop versions for that incredible stereo sound), the Pro 3, and the Minimoog 2022 reissue, have really earned their place. Even though some of these synths come with a hefty price tag, I can afford them and thoroughly enjoy every moment with them. If I had to downsize, though, the Prophet 12 and Hydrasynth Deluxe would be my essentials.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Some nice gear in that list, and if you can afford them, why not. Thanks for the comment.

[@fraknoise8523]

About the Osmose; it sounds to me you never palyed one. And if you did, you probably have a very 'piano' or 'keyboard' aproach to synthesizers. When I was 16 years old or so, played the piano for a while but also guitar and flute, the piano started to feel ridged, constrained. In my mind I made up an instrument that would not only respond to how 'hard' I hit the keys, but also to what I did afterwards. Like with a guitar, violin or flutes and brass and such. Push on it, wiggle it, and also the position of my finger on the key would make the sound change. Now, many years later, I own a Roli Seaborard Grand and an Osmose. And yes, they make the keyboard concept much more expressive in the sense that they use the power of the synthesizer much more direct, in a very tactile way. Though I can play simmilar sounding melodies with all kind of expressions on an old Roland SH2000, the control is much, much more precise on the Osmose. It is so sensitive, i did have to adapt my playing technique. (same goes for the Roli, but in a very different way). So the Osmose is far from a 'gimmick', I think any musician should be able to see and hear that. It cannot be your thing of course, due to what you expect from a synthesizer. I expect it to be the most expressive instrument ever invented, because it gives you the possibility to play ALL the soundshaping aspects of a sound, not just the ones that physics happens to give. About the breath controller. I also have that and I used it together with a Yamaha VL70m. Amazing, really. I sold the VL70m because I needed the monay but also because it sounded to much like 'the real thing', and then is useing the real thing not the better thing? A synthesizer is not by definition an instrument to solve all kind of praktical issues, like don't have to throw around heavy piano's and orgens when you having a gig. It can replace those things because it is much more than these instruments (though a good piano is a thing on its own, but you can't utilize that in pop music becuase the nuance will be lost in the proces), nevertheless a synth is a thing on its own and Expressive E has done a great job opening the heart of the synthesizer within the keyboard paradigm. One of the great things of the Osmose is the delicacy. If you lay a finger softly on the keys, the sound is already there, very soft. When you start to press the key further in, the sound swells, like you blow harder on a saxophone, but not with a saxophone sound. And with the same preset, when you hit the key fast, the sound with be fast and plucky. Your fingers become the envelope generator for every single note you play....! So play an Osmose, and you'll know what I mean. Probably you still won't like it, because you have your way of playing and what you need from your instrument, but a gimmick it will not be anymore. Kind regards, Allard Krijger

[@HazeAnderson]

As someone who plays a wind controller I too find the Osmose to be a gimmick. And just wait until it needs repair. 😏

[@fraknoise8523]

@@HazeAnderson a synthesizer is much more than any wind instrument. It has this thing that people think it is a keyboard instrument It is not. Osmose is a version of a keyboardinterface that does the synthesizer much more justice. And all instruments need care and attention and repair at some point in their live. Synthesizers in their present form are the newcomers, and there are no stradivarius synths yet. But then, the vast majority of all musical instruments brake down and are replaced.

[@matthewgaines10]

​@@fraknoise8523 People who play synthesizers know how to get the same expressiveness a traditional keyboard.

[@fraknoise8523]

@@matthewgaines10 I don't think we are talking about the same thing here. A piano cannot play in between the notes, cannot slide, kan not alter its volume curve. You can with a synthesizer and controllers, but you loose the connection, it gets more mechanical than say playing a string, a wind instrument or the Theremin for example. The Osmose brings all thise things directly to your fingers. And more. But I guess this turned into a discussion not about musical expression itself, but what we think certain instruments can do and how they can sound and which array of musical expression belongs to which instrument. In my point of view a synthesizer is not a keyboard instrument. It can be controlled by a keyboard and then it does keyboardy things. It can be controlled by a windcontroller (I used to have a WX11, very nice to play with) and then it does wind instrument things. The Osmose opens up the keyboard paradigm, and gives you new expressions if you are willing to put the time and effort in to sort of redefine how you play keys. On youtube you see a lot of demo's with it by people who have it for a week or two, and you can hear and see they don't master it yet, or it is a first encounter and the new language needs to develop. Most of them play keys very well, not everyone has a feeling for the Osmose first time playing. Similar with the SOMA Terra, also an MPE instrument. When I played that one for the first time I thought it was sort of easy to do. After a month I realized I was just starting te scratch the surface. With the Osmose I had a similar experience, though a bit easier because it is a keyboard after all. But a synthesizer with a standard keyboard does not have the same musical scope as the Osmose. No matter how good the player is. It is very different.

[@fraknoise8523]

@XrexO-g3u Of course. I agree! The Seaboard is a bit tricky, I feel that too. The Osmose is more elegant, but there you miss the polyphonic sliding. But still quite nice to play :-) Well, (for now) we can't have it all, can we.:-)

[@TomEdward2099]

I agree with your assessments here, especially on the analog synthesizers. For me, the biggest issue is with the price, as you mentioned. Don't get me wrong, the Moog / Oberheim / Prophet synthesizers played a massive role in music history, and I love those 70's and 80's sounds, but paying $3000-$6000 for equipment that sounds decades old isn't appealing to me, or a wise financial proposition given that I'm not a millionaire. Generally speaking, though, I think that the hardware synthesizer and workstation manufacturers are spending too much time replicating old sounds in their new, expensive keyboards. It's 2024, and there are a lot of software synthesizers capable of new, excellent sounds. I've been hoping to get those new styles of synthesis in a workstation (because I love the workflow of workstations like the Kronos X), but that hasn't happened yet.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

We're on the same page. Thanks for the comment.

[@TheDavidPoole]

Hi Jeffrey. I appreciate your honest opinions on these synths and keyboards and agree with the majority of what you say. Nord are Swedish, so they're always going to be expensive. Moog Minimoog is just ridiculous pricing. It's not like they're made in the USA anymore, just assembled from pre-filled circuit boards made overseas. Their new flagship poly is 3\5 of the price of the Minimoog for crying out loud! The 3rd waveis also a silly price. Behringers version will probably be in the same ballpark as the UBXA or, more likely, less. I'm on the fence about the Osmose. My cousin has one and I'll reserve judgement 'til I play with that. I can say I don't like the look of it - the way the keys are, it looks like it has a missing cover plate. Behringer takes a lot of heat, but price is the bottom line for me. I have quite a few of their products, but I also have some classics that I love. When I was a teenager I could afford one synth and a tape machine, until I got a Polysix for my 18th birthday and I felt like a king. Then I got a Mirage and I felt like king of the world 😀 Today I have so much more, thanks to pension drawdown and it cost less than what I had when a teenager. Crazy times! Cheers ✌️

[@samanthajanesmith9591]

Luckily these are all waaaayy out of my price range and so I can breath easy.

[@stefanpotiau7867]

Started sceptical on this video, but man, you nailed it! 😂 Especially on the nords. I haven’t used a DI box in 10 years, but Nord is still on unbalanced out 😂 Even my old Virus has balanced out.

[@danthreepwood2760]

It's the same as with expensive wine: if you can't taste the difference, don't bother buying a 250 bucks bottle. Overhyped or not, simple as that.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Exactly. Appreciate the comment.

[@unseenjungle5386]

I wouldn't take the Motor Synth to serious. It is definitely a different take and i kinda like seeing companys doing such things.

[@thirstyCactus]

I didn't like how the Behringer Minimoog clone sounded. I felt like I was fighting with it to get the sounds I was aiming for, and never got there. I'm selling it, as it doesn't "spark joy", aside from the cool looks.

[@SmallWorldBigThings]

Wow! There should be more of this kind videos! Agree 100% with everything you said! Thank you!

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks for your support, I appreciate it.

[@julipander5684]

This guy is great, he's simply applying some logical order in this industry, where those highly overpriced new keyboards have no sense and place, by observing their features against price. I have workstations of those 'three great brands', whose features turn the face of any of these devices pale, being far cheaper. Any used or new Yamaha Modx, or Fantom or Nautilus for example, or a Kurzweil, even a Krome sounds great and have many more features, and great tactile screens...

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks for the comment.

[@TheTMontgomery]

Nice new theme song.Totally agree Hopefully it would allow manufacturers to recognize that we expect a synclavier or K 250 in a DX5 at the original Casio price in todays world or cheap memory and cost reduction.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks for the comment.

[@jackcimino8822]

11:34 I love my Hydrasynth Explorer, but the problem is that some conditions like the sync mutants give it severe aliasing. It doesn't help that it runs on an underpowered DSP meant for digital pianos. The Modwave has way more voices and might be a better alternative to the Hydrasynth. The cool thing about the 3rd Wave is that it has FX per part! It even lets you use oscillators as mod sources.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks for sharing the info.

[@jackcimino8822]

@@JeffreyScottPetro You're welcome. Also, you should have focused on the Iridium keyboard instead of the Quantum. And I heard that the Osmose has a playing experience like no other. Not to mention, the revolutionary sound engine and new firmware update.

[@cartannull1791]

Yup , hydrasynth is cheap and nasty sounding, sometimes thats cool but, Argon 8 blows it away with crystal clear sound. Can't mix them together

[@furiobisotti8150]

I played a Hydrasynth deluxe for an hour in a shop here in Italy. Editing sounds, changing waves, inserting filters, not using effects. It was my best experience with synthesizers since 1978 when I bought a Korg MS20 (still with me). It may have defects (I didn't hear any aliasing) but it has fantasy. And innovation. Nothing that is included in old revived monsters like Prophets or Oberheims. Someone should tell me why I should spend 5 grands to own something that is mono and without effects. If I play live I must add other boxes...

[@mournblade1066]

I have yet to hear a good reason why people would shell out more than a couple hundred bucks for a monosynth. I mean, what is the point?

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

It's puzzling to me, and I'm just not a fan of mono synths. Thanks for the comment.

[@bugaljackson494]

I only learned mono synths were a thing a few days ago, I couldn't comprehend it

[@mournblade1066]

@@bugaljackson494 Really?

[@bugaljackson494]

@@mournblade1066 Yea. My first synth was either a microkorg or esq-1 around 2012, and currently I've been into 90's romplers. Never looked too deep into the pure analog stuff, but was watching a demonstration of some synth a few days ago and saw it was a mono synth, which confused me. Doing a quick search, I guess the main benefit is a "richer sound"?

[@guypisapia]

Wow! This is the first time that I hear an analysis where I can't find any illogical statements. I once owned an original OB-8, an ARP Odyssey, a Roland D-50, a Yamaha DX-7, a Korg PS-3200 and a Moog Source forty years ago, got rid of it all and, to this day, still regret it. Would I go out and buy an OB-X8 or a reissued Moog Model D or a Korg PS-3300? Are you kidding me??? At those prices? I would buy a great controller and then a bunch of great software synths.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

I have two episodes coming that talk about the Moog Source. It's a colorful synth. Thanks for the comment.

[@mosspa1]

I currently own three synths on this list (Quantum Mk 2, 3rd Wave, Osmose) and I don't feel embarrassed, at all. I purchased each of those synths for specific purposes for my studio. I purchased the Osmose for its usefulness as a MPE controller. I use it mostly for controlling soft-synths in my DAW, but some of the onboard sounds are pretty incredible as they are tailored spscifically to the keyboard controller. The 3rd Wave was a no brainer for me. I had a PPG 2.3 back in the day, and the 3rd Wave is a perfect imitator of that synth. Over my time with the 3rd Wave, I found it to be the most analog sounding synth in my studio ... so much so that I sold my Prophet 6 Module and my Prologue 16 because they were sonically redundant with the 3rd Wave. Last, but not least, the Waldorf Quantum Mk 2.. Before I purchased it, I had both an Iridium module and an Iridium Keyboard. Evbern though it had only 49 keys, the Fatar polyphonic aftertouch keybed made it my favorite feeling keybed in my studio. The integdation of the synth engines in the Quantum/Iridium synth engines mzkes them much more than VSTs in a box. It seems pretty clear to me that you really haven't spent much time with either a Quantum or an Iridium. I ended up selling my Iridium Keyboard when the Quantum 2 finally became available in the US. This was a no-brainer considering I paid $4259 USD new for it (and sold my Iridium for $2700). For that difference, I gained a 61-key keybed, 8 superb analog filters, 15GB of sample RAM (the main reason I upgraded to it), and a much more spread out control surface with a better touch screen. Some other contributor alluded to the tariffs or import fees into the US as the justification for its cost. While that may be true, I think the main reason for the price is that the Quantum is assembled in Germany where labor isn't as cheap as it is in Asia where most of the synths you seem to prefer are manufactured. Also, Waldorf isn't a monster multi-faceted company like "The Big 3". They have limited manufacturing capability and only sell one type of product (Synths and Synth software). Comparing the Quantum to a Hydrasynth (of which I currently have two, a 49-key and an Explorer) is kind of like comparing a Tesla Roadster to a Nissan Leaf. The technologies may be similar in some ways, but the overall value is much more than the brand-name sticker on the body. While the Hydrasynth is an incredible value for what it is, and is probably the most cost efficient way of getting a quality polyphonic aftertouch controller, its sound, no matter what people may claim, is nowhere near as complex nor as bass capable as a Quantum/Iridium.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

I understand. All three of those are amazing keyboards and sound great. Of those three, the Quantum would be my choice. Thanks for the comment.

[@trebleboost7]

I think you are spot on! (except for one). I have experience with a number of these instruments, or have researched heavily from objective user reviews, etc. Yes, the Piano 5 is a head-scratcher for the price. Not even organ sounds (although I *think* you can add sounds, but with no drawbars? And no mod wheels? No way. I would rather have a Linnstrument than an Osmose for a more expressive tactile experience with an instrument. The OBX8 has some serious limitations for such an expensive synth, including a lack of controls, and a very poor arpeggiator, and I came to the conclusion that it was those tired sounds I would be playing on it mostly anyway and getting it to fit in the mix is more difficult. The GForce Oberheim software plugs are really quite surprisingly good. Prophet 10 - maybe would consider if added features and stereo. Two others I think are overpriced for the value: Moog One, and the Montage M8 - the latter due to the lack of true workstation capabilities, albeit a great board on other fronts. OK, the one I disagree pretty sharply on is the 3rrd Wave. This as a remarkable and very musical instrument, backed by some of the best customer support you can find. Sounds fantastic, flexible, great UI with near knob-per-function control, 4-part multitimbral and sequencing, now some limited sampling capability - a beautiful Prophet-style filter, plus a pretty credible state variable digital filter, mixes very well, 4 assignable outputs, good build quality, etc.. Check out Miles Away's reviews. Agreed that a lot of the loaded presets weigh toward the wavetable textures but you can quickly come up with beautiful hybrid/VA sounds. The FX are just icing on the cake and are indeed better than many boards with built-in effects. It's a keeper for me and I do not think I overspent at all.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

That's interesting. Thanks for the comment.

[@jeffroweb]

I like some honest opinions. Thanks! I do think the OBX8 is one that is hard to beat for that oberheim analog sound. The software synths or behringer just aren't quite the same, but that might be fine for most people. TEO5 looks interesting too.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks for the comment.

[@moogy77]

I agree, but two additions on two keyboards you pointed out. No synth at any price, let alone at these big price points, should be omitting EFFECTS! Also, poly after touch has been around since 1983, AND poly glide as well. Nord Stage 4 only mono glide. My new Numa Compact X se at $799 offers both mono/poly glide.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks for the comment.

[@EchoKraft]

I own an Osmose and I have to say the Osmose is pretty cool and the polyphonic after touch is amazing on it and if you haven’t played one, you really don’t understand how it feels and what it’s like to play but other than that, I still think you had a great video here.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks. I know it looks like I was pretty harsh on the Osmose. It wouldn't be for me- I wouldn't get enough out of it, but for live players and people that are looking for a different/enhanced playing experience, it would be cool. Thanks for the comment.

[@smitlag]

I agree with some of your list. My only guilty item is my Oberheim X8. However, this was probably the most instantly gratifying putchase in a keyboard I have ever made. Is it new technology? No but $5k in terms of what these things cost in dollars when they came out is really nothing. Tom Oberheim is the last of the early synth makers still alive. I bought my Moog Voyager back when Bob himself introduced it. With the slew rate upgrade it sounds extremely close to the Model D, and has way more featuree. 5k for the Model D seems high, but look at what Moog was asking for a Moog 15! The Sequential Dave Smith stuff, I am on the fence with. Mostly because there seem to be several competing products and I am not sure which one is the better choice. I already own a Prophet 08. The bigger problem overall, is finding music that puts these great instruments to use. Maybe I need to completely get guitar players out of the picture.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Interesting, thanks for the comment, sir.

[@geoffk777]

I mostly agree with this lisy, especially on Nord, whose popularity baffles me. I slightly disagree on the Osmose, which tries to make the keyboard experience more like the very organic experience of using a string or horn. For a piano, it's too short and not ideal, but for a keyboard player looking for a violin or guitar experience, it feels natural in a way that traditional controllers would not. Interestingly, in the 1970's , Yamaha had the "wiggle" feature on some high-end combo organs. I found it to be surprisingly natural and intuitive, and I've always been disappointed that it never became more widely adopted. And the internal sound set is also (rightly) biased towards encouraging these types of simulated acoustic lead lines. Finally, the price is comparable to controllers like the Roli Seaboard, whch are inferior in almost every way and don't even include internal sounds. So I don't think it's overprced for what it is. I also disagree to some extent on the Quantum. Yes it's expensive compared to a Hydrasynth, to Serum or even to a Waldorf Iridium Keyboard. But it's beautifully made and engineered. It's one of the most versatle instruments on sale, and can make sounds that almost no other instrument can. If you're a sound designer or soundtrack artist, it can be easily worth the money. I own a Quantum Mk 1, and I'm very happy with it. My only real complaint is that the audio path is pure stereo---unless you use the single analog filter. This forces it to mono. The instrument splits it back and simulates stereo again, but it's really a terrible omission on an instrument in this class, and they kept tis serious flaw and didn't fix it on the Mk 2. Still, the display, controls, design and sounds are so compelling that I find myself comng back to it again and layering it with my more mainstream workstations and synths. OS upgrades to the Mk 1 have given it 16 voices and most of the features of the Mk 2 (except for the MPE keyboard), so you might consider a used Mk 1 to save some money. Think of it like a used Porsche.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Interesting about the Yamaha wiggle feature you mentioned. It sounds familiar. Circa 1984 I entered the Yamaha Electone Festival. My memory is fuzzy, but we played a three manual Yamaha Electone organ, and the top manual had synth sounds, and I think it had the wiggle feature. Thanks for the comment.

[@BillyBanter100]

Thanks for an enlightening and entertaining overview of these old synths. You are quite right most of these synths have beeen superceded by better and cheaper alternatives. And let's not forget that it's possible to get great results from budget kit with a little skill and imagination.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Indeed. Thanks for the comment.

[@final_mile_music9713]

You are way off. Plugs don’t get close to the Minimoog or the Prophet 10.

[@cnfuzz]

The reviewer should just use vst since he is a bit harsh on what tone a buyer of any of the synths in the list seeks , i say any plugin is overpriced if Behringer can make hardware at the price of a plugin

[@JaleneR]

I have often wondered whether I'm the only person on the planet who genuinely despises everything Nord has made -- it's not the sound of them, it's their physicality mostly. And you're right, the mod wheel placement on that keyboard is bizarre (and that truly awful pitch bender is the least musically expressive thing ever, imo). I will concede that my experience with Nord is limited to the very first Nord Lead, and I hated playing it so much during a studio session gig where they wanted a particular sound from it that I had to hook up another keyboard to it to get through the session. As you do... LOL. I am pretty much in love with the 3rd Wave though, your issue with effects notwithstanding, but I agree 100% that it's far too expensive for mere mortals. I could probably justify $2100 for a keyboard version and even that feels steep to me. Here's hoping that someday the price on used ones plummets - fingers crossed. That said, I own some Hydrasynths and I have a Korg Modwave, so I don't really *need* a 3rd Wave. But I do love that synth, a lot. It ticks all of my wavetable boxes and is 4-part multi-timbral with individual stereo outs per part. Also quite pretty to look at, controls sensibly laid out, etc. Not enough patch storage though. The Prophets and the Obies sound great, but those are a prime example of companies catering to the nostalgia market and not really doing anything new or extraordinary. Several of the EXis on your Kronos will easily cover most anything you could get out of the others, heck maybe even the HD-1 samples will get the job done. I do feel like we're going backward with all of these nostalgia reissues. I haven't yet played an Osmose, but I'm not a fan of doing sound design in Eagan Matrix despite how it sounds. It's all a bit alien to me. A DX7 is easier to program.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks for your comment.

[@JaleneR]

@@JeffreyScottPetro I hope it wasn't too long. I'll do my best to avoid writing a novel next time I comment. 🤣

[@griffithmorgan4966]

And now all the big makers will put you on the list: NO Synth For You! Good show though.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Yeah, no gear for me, because I'll only give an honest review. Thanks for the comment.

[@griffithmorgan4966]

@@JeffreyScottPetro Keep doing it. This is the kind of stuff I prefer. I really like hearing about under rated gear.

[@EchoKraft]

Great video ! My feelings and thoughts are the same! I’ve been saying this for years ! Thank you !

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thank you.

[@expandingknowledge8269]

As an experimental musician, I have never been drawn to expensive synthesizers. I purchase instruments that help define my sound, and most of the synths I have purchased over the years are from the used market, although not all of them. Technology has made some ground over the years, but not enough to shell out thousands of hard earned dollars for old technology repackaged into a new and improved, so the manufacturers claim instrument. How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop, the world may never know.🤓

[@PetersPianoShoppe]

Three.

[@expandingknowledge8269]

@@PetersPianoShoppe That's what the old commercial emphasized, but what is the analogy here really, when we are talking about synths?

[@deantiquisetnovis]

Can‘t agree more on the Mininoog reissue. The worst thing for me is that they put an external power supply on a 4500$ synth.

[@mike.thomas]

Enjoyed the list. I do think you may have unintentionally made some strawman arguments re the Osmose, because it goes way beyond your counterexamples (like D-Beam). However, I can see why it might be something most players don’t need or want. I personally have no interest in the Osmose, but I can still see that it is a very clearly different thing than a keyboard with an extra traditional controller or two, and it still seems pretty awesome to me - not gimmicky in the least. All Waldorf products are overpriced in the USA. It’s basically a “Korg tax” as I understand it (I believe Korg is the distributor). I’m in the USA but I bought an Iridium desktop (not Core) from Juno in the UK due to the ridiculous pricing here. B-stock for about $1650 + reasonable shipping and $100 customs. It arrived 3 days later and was indistinguishable from new except for a knob that had come loose in shipping. Even had the screen protector on. Anyway, I always enjoy your vids. Keep them coming :-)

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks for the comment.

[@lagrega]

I owned an original Crumar Spirit for a few years (2010-2014). It was/is a relatively rare synth and was designed in part by Bob Moog, thus has some Moog DNA and mojo in its sound. It also has some deep modulation capabilities due to the MOD x and SHAPER Y controls. These provide possibilities for “modulation of the modulation” sources. However, it was still a mono synth and ultimately seemed like $4000 too much tied up in the synth side of my amateur studio.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks for the info. I appreciate your comment.

[@sergoz123]

What would you say about the Buchla Easel/Easel Command?

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

It's not for me. I don't like modular or semi-modular. I don't have the time for it. Regardless of my opinion, you should buy what you love, want, and need. Thanks for the comment.

[@SPAZZOID100]

I own the Minimoog reissue, Prophet-10, &’OBX8 and they are worth every penny. Looking to get a 3rd wave next. Btw: The ubxa has shoddy build quality, & does not sound like an obxa.

[@epifrenetics]

I'm so pleased you included the 3rd Wave on this list. I haven't heard a single patch style from it that I haven't heard much better on much more reasonably priced synths. I don't know what it is about this one, but somehow it just *doesn't sound good*. Especially not for the price tag. On the plus side, it has 4 parts and 24 voices, but *it just doesn't sound that good* to me :D

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Yeah, I'm baffled by some of the prices out there. Appreciate your comment.

[@SeverityOne]

I keep forgetting that you Americans don't include tax in the display price. That just doesn't happen in Europe. What you see is what you pay. Regarding the Crumar Spirit: what makes it special is that it costs only just over $4000, when the originals fetch much more. There's currently one for sale on eBay from Italy for €8500, and another one, also from Italy, on Reverb for €6000 (down from €12,000). If you start looking at value for money: well, that's a different kettle of fish. But hey! It was designed by Bob Moog. Forgetting the Yamaha AN1x and EX5S that I bought at the end of the 1990s, I never paid more than €1000 for a synth (module), and usually a lot less. For what I paid for 18 or so 19 inch modules, you couldn't purchase two keyboards from this list. In my opinion, it can be justified to purchase one, maybe two, keyboards of over €1000. And there would have to be a very good reason for that price tag. But over €2000? Very doubtful, precisely because of the arguments made in this video. And it's not a matter of not being to afford them. I'm at a point in my life where I could purchase one of these, if I saved up for maybe a year. But they're not worth it. It'll look good on Facebook or Instagram, but like most other things on social media, it's just an illusion. Your friends are going to forget about your expensive keyboard the moment they move to the next photo or video, of somebody on a tropical beach, or a pet doing funny things.

[@MrBattlehunter]

osmose is not about polyphonic aftertouch, but pressure control on the whole range of your keypress essentially giving you envelop control on each finger. also the bends are polyphonic, good luck doing that with your pitch wheel lastly it also has one of if not the most interesting ARPs that exists at the moment, you can assign things like ratchets, octave jumps or speed division to any of the keys controls which will trigger only on that key

Loved the Nord roast! ;D In a tangential league, perhaps the Nautilus should have made it into the list. Not sure if the value for money equation works for it being a handicapped Kronos in 2024... don't get me wrong it's still a great workstation but I believe the Montages and Fantoms to be ahead, I think it's better to get a second hand Kronos.

[@geoffk777]

Totally agree on the Nautilus. The best thing about the Kronos was the Organ engine. The Nautilus still has it, but they stripped away the sliders, so now there are no drawbars, making it much less useful. It doesn't even boot faster. Be careful with a used Kronos, though. They're rather fragile and a lot of them have problems, so try before you buy.

@@geoffk777 they can take my kronos 2 from my cold dead hands

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Yeah, I just don't understand the Nord attraction, especially at those prices. Thanks for the comment.

[@straighttalk2069]

100% agree and you missed a few like NINA by Melbourne Instruments.

[@trebleboost7]

I am on the fence wtih this one. I really need to try one.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Yep, it's expensive for what it is, but I only had 11 slots. Thanks for the comment.

[@tomeaton435]

You really need to play the Osmose to understand it... a pedal, mod wheel, or front panel knob (all global) can't do what each finger can do individually on the Osmose. Like the ROLI you can fade notes in finger by fnger (attack and release times become a note-by-note performance choice), but unlike the ROLI you can also play quickly, in chords, and in tune. The depth and feel of the aftertouch on the Osmose is amazing... nothing at all like the Hydrasynth, ROLI, or Ensoniq's poly AT (I own them all). The Osmose is definitely not a gimmick... it's the most expressive keyboard controller yet made.

[@RoyChartier]

While I can't agree with most of the selections, there is definitely value in undervalued synths. I'd flip this around, my top 10 undervalued/attractively priced: DSI Morpho desktop, DSI Tetra desktop, MKS-50, A-Station/K-Station, JX-08, Prologue 8, Take5/TEO5, ESQ-m, Reface DX, Minifreak.

[@neilloughran4437]

I can't argue with your choices too much (esp with the quality VSTs around) but I do love a lot of those synths.. the Prophet 10 is among my all times favs...

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

I love most of them too, and they sound great. I simply can't understand some of the prices. Thanks for the comment.

[@0711RC]

Thanks for your honesty.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

My pleasure. Thanks for the comment.

[@AaronFoltz]

Had an Iridium for a short time and loved it. I'd buy the MKII but for no less than $3k. Steep cost but it's diverse.

[@jazzad]

I agree with your list for the most part. I don't understand what Prophet are doing here though. They are pro gear with stageproof construction and the keyboard itself is excellent, much better touch than almost all others on the market. Their workflow is a work of art and the richness of the tone is incredible. Comparing it to software synths is irrelevant. We're talking about an instrument. While others in your list are glorified luxury items, I think Prophets are damn good tools for the pro musician and are price accordingly.

[@deutsch4205]

The Waldorf Quantum is an amazing synth. You can really do almost anything with it. However, I agree that $6k is way too much. Especially you can get a used Mk1 for less than 2k these days.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

That can be a problem for these hyper-expensive synths. $6K is a lot to spend, and if you want to sell it 2 years later, you might be lucky to get $4K. Thanks for the comment.

[@mekosmowski]

Nothing I'm immediately considering is on this list. Maybe the Osmose, but I'd rather save for an actual Continuum. If a used Osmose ends up near me I'll go check it out. The idea of resolving a tritone without striking different keys appeals to me (I don't think this can be done with a single pitch bend wheel). I see the Osmose / Continuum pitch bend abilities akin to pedal steel guitar, but expanded. They'll also open doors outside of 12-EDO (moreso the Continuum). Calling the pitch modulation abilities of an Osmose a gimmick is analogous to calling the amplitude modulation abilities of the pianoforte a gimmick.

[@RayyMusik]

I don‘t agree to the Prophet-6 on the list. Yes, 4 octaves are not enough. Therefore the P6 *module* and any >=5 octave keyboard are not only cheaper but also more rewarding. Soundwise the P6 is the Swiss army knife of today‘s analog poly synths. I don‘t agree to the P10 either. It‘s easy to claim that VST synths sound as good as the expensive hardware - but it‘s not true. I used the U-he Repro-5 for years, and yes, it sounds fantastic. Then I bought a real P5, and it sounds not only different, but on a very high level even better.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks for the comment.

[@didadere7212]

Moog One, Melbourne Instruments Nina and Synclavier Regen are only new synths utterly worth their prices.

[@neilloughran4437]

Those were the ones I was waiting for. Esp as you can get the Synclavier in Ipad and Arturia formats..

[@zibbybone]

The 3rd wave is not analog. It does have analog filters, but the oscillators are digital. It's a perfect recreation of the PPG Wave plus more. Glad I got mine in 2022 for $3800, I knew they'd go up in price. Still more than I paid for my PPG Wave 2.2, but good luck finding one now for under $10k. The PPG sound is so unique and beautiful.

[@chinossynthesizer705]

It's a wavetable synth.

[@cnfuzz]

It's not perfect in recreating the PPG tone though , close but not perfect.

[@didadere7212]

Definitely overhyped and too expensive.

[@alicelaranjeira3127]

Ok

[@Drmarcelofon]

Excelent analysis… nude, direct… crude…. Pure reallity, some here are not musicians, Just like use play buttons 😅 . Price overpriced means a lot! Have motif, Kronos, kzw k2600xs, fantomX … Just 20 years Back in the past industrios reach the top … now they sell gymmics

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks. Appreciate your comment.

[@mournblade1066]

Yeah, I have a Virus KC, which I bought used for $1200 about ten years ago. So glad I bought that and not a Nord Lead. The Virus is an absolute BEAST of a synth.

[@aseomg]

Waldorf seems expensive for the US market, but they might be paying high export fees/taxes because Waldorf is reasonably priced in Europe. Contrast that with Australia where imported electronic instruments amongst other things are expensive.

[@mike.thomas]

We pay a huge upcharge for Waldorf here. I’ve heard it described as a “Korg tax” (they are the US distributor, I believe). I resorted to buying my Iridium desktop from the UK and having it shipped here due to the ridiculous new and used US prices.

[@cnfuzz]

@@mike.thomas same in EU for Moog and sequential and it has always been

[@adamrose1242]

#1 wrong, Osmose has in built synth with 24 voices, full MPE and at 1/2 or 1/3 of the cost of other synths on the list makes this below the minis at triple the price etc... I also have a lot of synths and the sound from the in built Matrix of new MPE synths amazing, is my fav synth at present.

[@adamrose1242]

Main problem is only 49 key version ...

[@craigbroadfoot1851]

Nords have annoying limitations but are very practical for gigging, with the 88 key models having a manageable weight. The flagship 88 workstation models from Yamaha and Roland are too heavy for gigging, coming in at around 28kg, and the new Fantom is also notorious for polyphony issues. The only equivalent 88 note board for gigging is the YC88, which also has limitations. I have a Kurzweil Forte, which is great in that there is more flexibility to add sounds, but sadly it’s no longer available. If I didn’t have that, I’d be tempted by a Stage 4.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Weight is an important consideration for gigging. A friend loaned me an electric grand for a gig years ago, and as much as I loved the sound, I said "never again." Thanks for the comment.

[@filippobuccianelli4606]

Non solo il peso è inferiore, ma i suoni funzionano senza preoccupazioni e gli Stage sono strumenti molto affidabili. Purtroppo le ultime due versioni hanno perso un po’ di immediatezza d’uso e hanno un prezzo osceno.

[@wibblewabblewoo6249]

For ppl in the UK, can I recommend Korg refurbished - I got a SV2-S from them for nearly half price… and the D next to middle C was physically broken! It was unusuable! I thought I’d made a huge mistake! However Korg were absolutely brilliant, I got a replacement a week later. I keep telling this story to ppl because I actually think their customer service was outstanding. (Also I agree, why would you buy a Minimoog for thousands? I got my Behringer PolyD for a fraction of the price in a sale from Thomann online!)

[@steveglossop]

Entertaining video with some interesting insights. Regarding the Prophet 6, I think at the time, it was a highly anticipated synth because it was the closest you could get to owning a Prophet 5 and Yamaha had kindly given back the Sequential name to Dave Smith. So having the Prophet pedigree and being the first to have the reacquired Sequential Circuits name, many synth nerds were virtually drooling over the prospect. The 49 keys are fine for artists like Peter-John Vetesse, Matt Johnson and countless others, so not totally convinced with the idea it was a cost cutting exercise. I wonder if the Prophet 5 was already in the pipeline so the P6 had to have some "concessions" so it wouldn't compete directly with the P5. The black panelling being another.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks, Steve, I appreciate your comment.

[@cartannull1791]

Any 8 voice monotimbral digital synth from the last 10 years that costs over €750 . Dont care how good they sound, should be at least 4 part multitimbral. And Swedish manufacturers are always overpriced, overhyped, and overdesigned.

[@robflores5172]

The Roli Seaboard is the king of MPE controllers.

[@jonclyne2918]

Ha "I have a d-beam controller, I tested it but it's a gimmick" I feel exactly the same way about my Fantom X6. I tested but hmm.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks for the comment, sir.

[@Drmarcelofon]

My fantom x8 have dbeam… for what 😢????

[@horowizard]

There are no bad Keyboards. There are no bad Synthesizers. Only bad Synthesizer and Keyboard players!

[@neilloughran4437]

There is a lot of truth to that... sounds are sounds.. I remember playing a Korg Poly 800 back in the day and loved every minute of it... I remember seeing some awesome Bebop jazz musicians playign great music on the thing...

[@klinkske]

Have you tried the boog vs the reissue? I did. I wouldn’t praise both. 70% travel on some knobs does nothing on the boog. The reissue lacks low and mine had an issue so i don’t t think they will last 50 years either just like my other 2 recent moogs had issues.

[@straighttalk2069]

I would ask the question would the boog out last me if it's not my only synth and I don't gig.

[@klinkske]

@@straighttalk2069 if i would want to buy behringer, buy it new and sell it before it runs out of warranty. Repeat. You won t lose a lot on that process each time and it will bave warranty every time.

[@ThreeBeingOne]

It’s all great we should all just create with what we have, free plugs create masterpieces too and often.

[@craigie13]

No wonder Behringer is cleaning up

[@deegee8645]

for the price of that Spirit monosynth cat-lookalikee,, one could buy 20 x Behringer octave-plateau-cat clones (currently £200 each)

[@shabbee]

How many do you have?

[@deegee8645]

@@shabbee just the one B-cat, plus some other B-clones

[@matthewgaines10]

I won't beef about this list.

[@dodgingrain3695]

Have you used these or is this based on on-line demos?

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

I'm not sure how someone could review something without playing it. Appreciate your comment.

[@danthreepwood2760]

He hasn't used most, if not any of them. Nobody buys for 25.000 bucks worth of synths and then rips on every single one of them, even saying a f***ing Hydrasynth is better.

[@kettlezone]

Agree 100% on the Nords - the Emperor's new clothes.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Indeed. Thanks for the comment.

[@HazeAnderson]

How dare you poo poo on my favorite synthesizer. I will politely tell you why you are wrong. It is because I am right. And you made my favorite synthesizer cry. I hope my silly comment didn't waste your time.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

LOL, you did not waste my time. That's hilarious. Thanks for the comment.

[@PurpleMusicProductions]

You hurt my soul mentioning Nord but I have to agree with you on all points in the video. These prices are unholy for what you are getting. With VSTs and software being really good or close it makes the attraction less tenable. I am a hardware guy to my being but there are certain things that I am willing to sacrifice for the sake of price and practicality. Also with the big three their workstations can replicate the sounds of analog and the boutique boards and once you run those tones through guitar pedals, preamps and or hardware compressors no one will notice the difference not to mention you will have a cheaper price point with far more features. For 5k I need an 88 fully weighted graded hammer action workstation otherwise pound sand 😂

[@siturn1]

Well said, sir.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks for the comment.

[@rhill109]

Most of these synths are niche instruments. Not a huge market for them. That's why they so expensive. Economy of scale. I paid $1050 for a Roland S-10 sampler in 1986. That's basically $3000 in today's money. So in my view, the Waldorf is a freaking bargain.

[@cnfuzz]

@@rhill109 difference was that the S10 was build like a brick and the fact you could sample at that quality for that price was totally new the discs we're very expensive though and only one 1,3 sec sample could be stored per side, there isn't a piece of keyboard tech that meets that criteria today in comparison

[@kvmoore1]

You've just named all 3 of the synths I would like to one day own as part of my existing setup. One of the synths you've named, I do already own. Which synths are these? The one in which you've named that I already own is the Prophet 10. Do I regret the purchase and would I trade it for a cheaper synth or for software? Absolutely not!! The sound and interface of the Prophet 10 is absolutely beautiful, to me. It's something I've always wanted for years (the Prophet 5). This is a Prophet 5, but with double the polyphony! So, which are the other three synths that you've named that I would like to own someday? Those three are the Minimoog Model D reissue, the Oberheim OB-X8, and the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave. I've played each and every one of these synths and I can say they are absolutely fantastic in regards to looks, sound, UI, and playability. Maybe this is because I just adore the sound of vintage analog as well as the layout and aesthetics. Anyway, I like everything about these synths except the fact I can't afford them. Hehehe... Now, regarding the 3rd Wave, you really can't go by the presets. I don't particularly care for the factory presets. It's when you spend time with the 3rd Wave, initialize a patch, and start building a new patch from scratch that you begin to truly appreciate the 3rd Wave and what it has to offer. That thing sounds amazing and it is an absolute powerhouse! Now, I have also played the ASM Hydrasynth Deluxe and, while it's very powerful as well, I'm just not too thrilled about it's sonic texture, to be honest, at least, not compared to the 3rd Wave. Now is the Hydrasynth a good bang-for-buck synth? Absolutely! I've also owned a Virus C desktop as well and it was a powerhouse virtual analog synth. However, once I started buying true analog polyphonic synths, I eventually let go of my Virus and my Korg Radius eventhough they were still great synths and I've had them for years. No regrets. Now, there are a couple of synths you've named that I am not too crazy about, and those are the Osmose and the Waldorf Quantum Mkll. I can say this now that I've actually tried these out as well. They're not bad at all. They're just not right for me. I personally prefer the sound and interface of the 3rd Wave over the Quantum. Also, I think the Quantum is way overpriced now, especially after Waldorf jacked it up from $4799 to $6000. It's just not worth it to me, even if I could afford it. As far as the Osmose goes, I'm just not into polyphonic aftertouch. That's a feature I would probably never use. Yes, this was a very interesting list you put together this time. Hahaha... Oh yes, I've tried all the new Nords including the Piano 5 and the Stage 4 and they all have a Rhodes sample that has a specific tone that I like. As you mentioned, these keyboards have humongous price tags, especially considering how limited they are, being that they are digital keyboards. The good news is I was able to discover that exact "SAME" Rhodes sound in a 20-year-old Nord Electro 2 Rack unit and was able to find one online earlier this year for a reasonable price!....under $900!

[@fishing4444able]

I agree a lot but there is a significant difference between the sound of the OLD analog stuff and the new computer controlled synths. If you’re a professional and using them to make records. Thats why the OB-X8 kinda sucks. It’s really different!

[@pupation]

I don’t usually speed up video playback, but I had to for this one.

[@synthsamuraiproductions]

Coming out hot fire 🔥

[@thevi_olin]

This is such a subjective topic, manufacturers are free to set a price, consumers are free to pay the price. The value proposition might not be there for one individual, but that’s still subjective. Overall the flagship synths go for similar price points, and the cheaper alternatives don’t have identical specs. Your feature comparisons are valid, and we could argue on if a nord is an instrument over a waldorf being more of a feat of sound engineering. As always, I appreciate gaining insight in your perspective, it definitely helps me balancing cost v.s value! 👍 Now excuse me, im mesmerized by the beautiful sounds of a prophet-10. It’s simple, expensive, limited and blows everything else I own out of the water once it’s in tune after five minutes of warming up. ) ;)😊

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Indeed. Appreciate your comment, sir.

[@epifrenetics]

The ASM synths are overhyped, but incredibly well priced! Arturia also hit a great balance. Yes, the flagship Waldorfs are too overpriced for what you get.

[@RonaldFigura]

"Apurgiator"? That's a new one...

[@makato01]

For 1600 you have an analog beast, the GS E7

[@MFitz12]

I am old enough to remember when the Yamaha DX-7 first appeared and revolutionized the keyboard market, not least because of its astonishingly low price of,.... $6,300.00 in today's money. Yamaha sold a few hundred thousand of the things with many players owning several. Memorymoogs and Prophet 5' cost as much as a new car. I'd day we have it pretty good today.

[@jackcimino8822]

8:24 OR you can get a Roland SE-02 if you don't like Behringer.

[@kylejohnson-evers4549]

It has presets and more features but the filter doesn't really sound the same

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Indeed. That is a very cool synth for the price. Thanks for the comment.

[@0richbike]

In fairness,as I understand it from k browns vst, the crumar spirit has a fairly unusual architecture. I'd sooner blow boutique cash on that rather than a minimoog I kind of agree with the Osmos . I got a 2nd hand cme xkey and and a Waldorf Blofeld for about 300 quid which scartches my mpe itch.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks for the comment.

[@PiotrstrashcanŚmietnikPiotra]

I was curious whether you would include Moog Muse on that list...

[@trebleboost7]

Too early to tell for me I think. I tried one at Sweetwater and it seemed great for what it is, but I need to explore it more.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Someone else asked about the Muse and the Poly Brute 12. I haven't played either of them, but obviously I've seen the demos. I probably would include them on a list like this, although the Muse is not a bad value compared to classic analogs like MemoryMoog and Jupiter-6/8. I did say in the video that all the synths on the list sound good, it's really a matter of whether they are a good value compared to the alternatives. Do we really need two more VCO synths to choose from? Maybe, maybe not, but more choices may help push prices lower, and that's good for us as musicians. Thanks for the comment.

[@Vergarecords]

I'll have to make a video of my 3rd Wave

[@straighttalk2069]

A video wont change it's price.

[@stevesmyth4982]

The 3rd Wave is so good I bought both versions.

[@6581punk]

I'd disagree about the Waldorf Quantum. There's like 5 sound engines in it. Can't think of many synths out there that can do audio rate modulation of wavetables.

[@zibbybone]

the price of the mk2 is nutty. I've got a mk1 I bought new for around $3500. Powerful synth.

[@sonic2000gr]

The Osmose is not so expensive for the noble ideas it has. And it also has nice sounds in itself. I am not buying it, but it still looks interesting.

[@dvamateur]

Okay, let me list synthesizers and keyboard that are not over-hyped or overpriced: Korg Nautilus Roland RD-2000 Roland JUPITER-X/Xm Roland JUNO-X Roland SYSTEM-8 Roland JD-XA Roland SH-4d Korg Prologue Yamaha Montage M7 To put it simple, if you buy a Korg, Roland, or Yamaha, you won't be tricked or ripped off.

[@Hannah_Grey]

Haha... no skewering coming from over here.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

Thanks. Appreciate the comment.

[@synthartist69]

I would not own a Nord. Waaaaay overhyped. I have played a couple, dislike everything about it. The price is insane.

[@markaprill6501]

Pretty good list….no pitch wheel on the Nord piano which is really a fake piano which is actually a digital synth and needs a wheel. The osmose is very reminiscent of the roli,seaboard or whatever that never caught on either. You should just play guitar if you want that type of control. The reason this list is basically right because I just bought a great synth for 30 bucks it’s an iPad app and you can’t hear the difference. Osmose is cool but your never going to become world famous osmose player it’s a gimmick.

[@JeffreyScottPetro]

You said what I said, but you did it in three lines... awesome. Thanks for the comment.

[@baramundi__88__]

Most hardware is overratet, and most modular stuff is hipster AF.

[@bateimidrashnetwork]

If your crieteria is list of features for the price then yes, something like a hydrasynth looks better bang for buck. But for this example, as someone who owned it - it sounds like crap amd all the gazillion filter types or modulation options in the world aren't gonna help it sound good. But hey! It has many features so it must be better. As for a synth like the Prophet 10 which i own, and have it side by side with uhe repro 5 - they are not the same, sorry. The vst can get close at some settings, but for extreme settings it's close but no cigar. Specially sounds that involve polymod. Think osc1 pulse width being audio rate modulated by osc2, which is in turn set to pulse and beimg modulated by the lfo or noise. These are the areas that make the Prophet special - and are exactly the areas where software still isn't the same

[@keysemerson3771]

Hydrasynth all the way my friend.! You better get your ears checked.

[@bateimidrashnetwork]

@@keysemerson3771 There's nothing to check. It's just not my taste. And believe me, if initially i wasn't serious about giving it a chance i wouldn't have bought one (desktop version for me). Between analog or hybrid synths that i have here (Moog Matriarch, P10, UDO Super 6) and a plethora of vst plugins (NI Komplete 14 with Massive x, Reaktor etc etc, Vps Avenger, Falcon 3 and the list goes on) - i think i can pretty much decide for my self whether i like the inherent tone of a synthesizer or not. I had it for over a year, programmed the hell out of it, tried to like it - but didn't. It's probably tough for you to hear someone that don't like it so you advise me to check my ears...?

[@keysemerson3771]

@@bateimidrashnetwork Just kidding. Of course it's subjective. I've heard some sound sets that have been done by excellent programmers that emulate a really good analog polysynth plus it does digital/wavetable, et. al

[@bateimidrashnetwork]

@@keysemerson3771 i know. I had the Major Osc packs