Dreadbox Nymphes

Here are my various and assorted thoughts on the all new Dreadbox Nymphes after using it in anger for the last three weeks. This is also a blatant opportunity for me to introduce an all-new dedicated software editor for the Nymphes which I developed myself and which will be available for download very soon. I am in the final stages of bug fixing and testing, and hoping to release the editor within the next few days. I will provide a notification on Facebook and KZbin once it is available.

[@REALDAXH]

As a developer I am shocked that you've just created a software editor. I mean wow. You are full of gems Tim. Respect. As usually great video, thank you.

[@henrikfisch]

Tim, if I may say so: Your »opinion« about any kind of gear is way WAAAAY more valuable than any other so called »professional« reviews out there. That's exactly the reason why I LOVE your videos and why I am a loyal watcher. For example: One of the best videos I've ever seen on KZbin about the »PERfourMER« (actually two videos) were on your channel. So ... don't make yourself that much of an headache and make your videos the way you like them. All the best, Henrik

[@TimShoebridge]

You're very kind Henrik. I had some sleepless nights over that PERfourMER !!

[@9877joseph]

I agree

[@JaleTM]

Your calm voice is one of the reasons I watch your vids.

[@CharlesFerraro]

Hey Tim, don’t worry about trying to be different from all the other KZbin videos out there. I’m subscribed to you for you. Also your video on the Waldorf Kyra is still the best full walkthrough on KZbin.

[@octosizer]

EVERY video from Tim is best walkthrough on youtube.

[@StatsGod]

Tim, I really appreciated this presentation. Direct, down-to-earth, practical. Human to human. You're right: not everyone wants a pocket polysynth. Yet you make a wonderful case for the instrument.

[@StatsGod]

That said, I do wish Yannis had used some of the empty panel space for eight small tunable contacts, so that the instrument could be played on the go without a MIDI keyboard, and could emit microtonal intervals.

[@starsky101]

Another informative video thank you. I sent my Yamaha SY35 off to a software company to write a CC editor and librarian for my Atari ST approx 3,000,000 years ago and I also realised that it would be a game changer from a patch production point of view. Given the potential for menu diving and losing slider positions as you illustrate I’m surprised Dreadbox didn’t create this to bundle with the Nymphes. When they see this I feel you’ll have a job offer from Dreadbox. I honestly think your Nymphcc ‘rack’ could drive sales of the Nymphes, I simply would not buy one without such an editor and I’m sure I’m not alone.

[@pthomas36]

Nymphcc is definitely a factor in my buying decision. I've been thinking about Nymphes since its release and this makes it that much more tantalizing.

[@AndyVonal]

Brilliant! Best video on this synth yet! Wonderful! Thank you so much! I hope Dreadbox will support you in some way with the software you have created because that looks like it will be a "must" for many people who get this synth. Have a great 2022!

[@jammystraub488]

I enjoy these opinion pieces, general thoughts on the gear, and it's workflow significantly more than other types of reviews. Thank you!

[@thespecialist6831]

40 videos already but we were all waiting for yours :)

[@costischristodoulou9025]

Thanks, Tim. Great video, as always. Happy new year, and greetings from Athens, Greece.

[@esmoroglu]

This is very impressive and what a great contribution to the community, including beginners like me thinking about which synth to get.👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👋🏼

[@watchaddicts1213]

Just blown away every time I watch this video! What an Excellent contribution, Tim.

[@jean-francoispedneault3632]

Thank you Tim for all your knowledge sharing. I loved everything I've watch from your channel (waldorf/dreadbox). I bought the typhon and thinking about the nymphes and your editor will come with it that is for sure! Congrats!

[@nutritionontape]

Your opinions are very insightful (Case in point, I sold my Vermona to buy a Moog, now that I fully understand the filter resonance…. Very happy with my results)

[@mmckmusic]

Thanks so much for coming up with this editor. I love the Nymphes sound and was going to hang on to it either way. However, the ability to tweak the envelopes and save/name/organise patches turns it into a practical tool I can rely on in a studio set up. Brilliant work!

[@mark35mi]

Nice work Tim. Appreciate your approach, delivery and style. Keep up the good work partner.

[@formationmusicale601]

Thanks for this detailed review! Your software looks great!

[@DestroyER82]

Amazing talk / review full of well presented and valued informations. Awesome job again (as always :) ). All the best!

[@reddragonrespect]

happy new year Tim! like always great effort and work. !!!

[@johnnyraphaell]

I like your video /light and structure. Great like a piece of art. Unique style.

[@watchaddicts1213]

Hey...TIM. My Nymphes arrived. HOLY MOLY...there's some SERIOUS MAGIC inside this little box. AS much as I love my Minilogue XD and NTS-`1 (MAJOR amounts of LOVE there), I may end up having to go to Confession over NYMPHES; not the Catholic church one, the Orthodox Church--the one that CHRIST started. I digress. The Nymphes is SO SIMPLE to use and program. I'll still need your software, but...just sayin'.. Nymphes sounds absolutely GORGEOUS. I could go missing for--roughly--YEARS inside that blue box. I merely wanted you to know. And perhaps you having reviewed the likes of MOOG ONE, 3rd Wave and etc, you r days of fiddling with synth of the common man are behind you.

[@or2scub]

I agree with you Tim, the Nymphes is a great synthesizer but impossible to use without an external controller. That's why I didn't keep it after using it only 2 days. There is a moment when after setting all the faders on all the layers, the patch management becomes unmanageable, moreover, we must always check that one is in the right setting before tweaking. It's like setting 40 or more faders from memory. Unmanageable in standalone.

[@Heavy_Distortion]

Great review. Nymphes sounds sweet. I love the small size. Hope we see more Dreadbox poly synths.

[@ProfessorSynth]

Fantastic work Tim.

[@anthonycowie7913]

I'm in awe - it's a case of 'take my money' whenever you release the midi editor and cv interface! Chapeau!

[@osi9567]

Just wanted to say your videos are excellent. Cheers!

[@BFBeast666]

There's only one Tim Shoebridge - and your videos are unique and very watchable thanks to you being you. If I were to flatter you, I'd praise your warm voice and dry wit, along with a remarkable hand for beautiful sound examples. (The Moog Voyager intro was magical!) Since you invited us all to a chat about synths and the Nymphes in particular, here's my take on the blue box of fun. I didn't buy one. A few months ago, I traded my Minibrute 2S for a Dreadbox Typhon. I wanted a fat sounding mono synth, with decent mod capability. The MB had that, but I was constantly at odds with its three tuning knobs, so it had to go. Thankfully, the Typhon was just what I needed. Even the oft-maligned screen doesn't bother me. And I love how big and massive it can be. So, when I saw the announcement of the Nymphes at last year' Superbooth, I was psyched like crazy. A polysynth with the Dreadbox sound? Oh yeah! But then the reviews rolled around and the biggest surprise was the funky and rather obtuse menu system. When even a synth pro like loopop manages to lock himself out of the synth by accident, what chance would a layman like me have in taming that beast? I see that you're using the editor a lot in your video, but if I wanted to push a mouse around, I could buy some big VST instead. :) Also, as much as I like the sound, I felt that 600 Euros for a six-voice poly was a bit steep, even considering Dreadbox isn't dealing in large volume sales. So, instead of asking my lovely wife for some Nymphes under the Christmas tree, we satisfied our craving for a big analog poly by adopting a lovely DeepMind 12D. Since we're not much for travel, it can sit as the centerpiece of our small studio space and provide us with all the nice Juno-esque warmth we want. For almost the same price as the Nymphes, but with twice the voice count, two oscillators per voice and stereo outs. :)

[@MikkelGrumBovin]

Hi Mr.Shoebridge . Thanx a bunch for yet another fine , informative video , and i would love to get my hands on your editor , Kudos from Copenhagen 😉☝️

[@stephanearnoux]

Thank you ! You helped me to love this synth i'm fighting with and your midi solution is exactly what i wanted to !!!

[@stephanearnoux]

I want this !

[@BEAT_and_DELETE]

I already bought mine but as always I really enjoyed your takes on it, thanks for the video :)

[@ogasi1798]

they made a really great business move all things considered, on top of that your video as always, is great Tim, thanks brother !

[@Touchguitar]

Really helpful Tim! Mine arrives tomorrow, I’ll need to buy your editor before then!

[@MikeS-1969]

For the last couple of weeks I watched various videos about Nymphes , from what I see It sound and looks strangely interesting. Besides I always enjoy a new synth video to be honest. That small piece of gear makes me to want to buy it (and I wasn't planning to buy yet another analog synth). Then I had a discussion over coffee with Tim and now I will probably buy one... So Thanks for that! Just a small note. As I believe there is a story behind the name, perhaps it would be a good idea to mention something about it. I haven't seen it but I think there is a small note at the back of the box I believe.

[@LuxscapeMusic]

Great review.

[@geebake]

Fantastic as always. This synth looks like it would pair really nicely with a Befaco VCMC. It would, more or less, give you a CV controlled Nymphes.

[@nathandavidhall]

Nymphes arrives tmrw, looking forward to your software editor! Seems it would also be useful for dialing in a patch just right (more easily than with sliders), saving it, then loading it for live use in the context of a band/performance and just using sliders live for simple filter work

[@robohasse997]

All that is really necessary to power the analog circuits is 5v, which comes through USB. The way they got the shorter form factor was due in part simply by using shorter stand offs! Great review. I like your style.

[@ConstantLittleGhost]

Don't worry about the other vids. You just do what you do and we'll keep watching.

[@Jeff-fv2jl]

amazing...i will be getting that software editor asap.

[@skyreadersociety6183]

thanks for the editor, makes sense

[@fjfrancois]

35:31 the software editor that’s brilliant 👍

[@michaelkonomos]

The Reverb actually reminds a little of the Chase Bliss Dark World “World” side of the pedal, maybe a little between the spring and plate on that. It is a very particular flavor. I am glad you explored it without dismissing it as some others have.

[@jasonbeatty831]

I actually dig the reverb, I had the chance to borrow the nymphes for a weekend recently and loved it. I know it’s not stereo, like the Nyx V2, but it’s a great reverb.

[@argiopeMusic]

Still holding my breath with that Mc’D’s cup just over your Nord… 😃 - lovely software tool, Tim.

[@Jacob-ur3lh]

I think using the spring reverb gives it character. But I would use it minimally and then have a more lush reverb after the fact. Thanks for the in depth video!

[@danyok_playground]

Thanks a lot for bringing it to Life

[@originalfallinggirl]

I’m so glad I found your channel. 👍 Please review some of Paul Tas from Error Instruments wonderful instruments.

[@SouthShoreSonics]

These are not quite available in Canada yet, but from what I hear I think it would mate well with the Dreadbox Abyss.

[@samprock]

Mighty synth ... wait, you have developed editor fore it!?!?! Very cool! Indeed I just bought VCV Rack, starting using it with Moog's DFAM/M32/SHM. With editor software, though Voltage Modular, it is really drags my attention now. As you said, it was luring 6 voice small usb-powered, but with automation and unlimited presets it is a game changer. BTW, very happy to see familiar and very dear to me Subsequent 37CV (when did you get it?). Really spoiled with Moog's editor plug, as well as multi-instantiated Polybrute plug raising the bar. Can't really consider any synth without this luxury. One exemption is Moog Studio (which still subject to control from DAW thru DC coupled CV as part of VCV Rack or it can be done with Cherry Audio same way?). So - Nymphes Editor - you rock, Tim!

[@mr.irrelevant3588]

Is that a Nymphes in your pocket or are you just happy to see me?

[@wildaudiosociety]

I think Yiannis owes you a beer. 👍😉

[@davidsynge7030]

I’m still so conflicted about this synth. Love the sound which is obviously the most important thing. If they doubled the footprint, reduced the menu diving, added stereo for stereo spread of voices (don’t care about internal fx), and doubled the price for the extras I would buy it in a heartbeat.

[@AndrossUT]

They should collaborate with some other synth makers to develop this sound engine into like a 12 voice keyboard or 19in rack module

[@kolyabichan]

Thank You! 🙏

[@owenaitken4754]

Hi Tim, love your vids as per usual. I was wondering whether I could get your opinion. I have been looking for a portable live synth module to play sequences and lead/bass duties to somewhat replicate my Grandmother & J106. I originally purchased a Moog Sirin which has a great tone and I do find the interface somewhat alright although there is a lot of secondary shift functions (which are not labelled unlike the Nymphes), especially as the patch memory requires you to use the VST app and does not feature a patch knob like the Nymphes. Not sure if you have owned any Taurus or Sirin modules but just wanted to know how you found the Nymphes just as a module, understand it's not trying to be a portable Moog but I am looking for something that can do Juno sequences and big bass/lead (which have been on the Grandmother on the studio). Thanks and sorry for the big question!

[@TimShoebridge]

Hi Owen, I'm kicking myself I didn't buy a Sirin when they first came out, used prices seem to be sky rocketing these days. I've a few other Moog synths so I'm sure the Sirin sounds wonderful. Regarding the Nymphes, I'm surprised at how beefy it can sound and how easily it lends itself to basses and leads. That said you can't key sync the oscillator like you can on the Moogs, and I'd personally say the Nymphes has a more gravelly tone, it's just a little bit rough around the edges but that gives it a very analogue character (can I say vintage?). If you are fine using a notebook or PC in a live situation then I'd certainly give the Nymphes a try (coupled with my editor of course! =D ). A lot of retailers have a "no questions asked" 30 day return policy which you could take advantage of to give the Nymphes a try. It's a lot of synth for the money, it can perform many roles, poly and mono, and I've just added polychain capability to my editor if you fancy controlling two Nymphes simultaneously!!

[@PWMaarten]

There must be a very sexy PCB design in that synth!

[@JamesLevineAndSons]

Your point regarding missing the forest for the trees with the faders is further illustrated, I think, once you go into the modulators and adjust the send levels for the target parameters. Either I see zero'ing all the faders first such that it's clear which ones you are focusing on, or using the judicious initialize-key combination til you get it right and leaving the untouched faders relatively where you found them. Either way, I'd loose my bearings moving back to base fader functions. But that might be part of the experience: moving through a patch confidently, making commitments to the sound and not looking back.

[@marike1100]

Excellent video. Question: how good or bad is pitch tracking, meaning how quickly do the notes go out of tune from, say a middle C starting point? Thanks. 👍

[@Angelstarscotland]

This is fantastic, what great work with your software editor. If I buy a Nymphes I'll definitely buy your editor.

[@stevepile8133]

Great video. I love mine so far! Question: could I use the software editor and get power from my desktop via usb, but still also get midi via the midi in (from my Pyramid, ie.)?

[@TimShoebridge]

Yes, it can connect to any MIDI in device registered on your desktop so that for example you can still pass notes to the synth via the editor.

[@ingolf7411]

Ok, nice to have a coffee with you ☕️

[@jimmymeakin1]

thanks for another fantastic video, Tim! Does anyone else have an issue with excessively noisy envelopes on their Nymphes? I've updated the firmware to the latest version which hasn't helped, sadly. I have just got a second hand one with an early serial number and I'm worried I've bought a dodgy unit..

[@dickwang7429]

Very cool Tim. Big fan of the work you did with Logue SDK and the editor looks cool! Have you used VCV rack as well? I'm using an iOS fork of VCV Rack called Mirack right now (use it on my iPad in the park), but I'm planning on getting an MPC soon and would like to have virtual modular in VST form for auto sampling. It seems that the Voltage Modular people like Voltage Modular, and the VCV Rack people like VCV Rack, and nobody can really compare the two, which is rare since the internet is full of people willing to give uninformed opinions on things, so I assume that there really isn't any cross-pollination between the two. I own some Cherry Audio plugins and pretty much like everything they put out but not sure where to go with this as the time cost of learning is high. Thoughts?

[@TimShoebridge]

Thanks very much! Must admit I have not tried VCV before, in fact I was only introduced to VM a couple of months ago. From a development perspective they do look very different, and I can imagine they are very different from a user experience as well. VCV can run on linux so I can see the definite appeal from that point of view.

[@els1f]

I believe the reverb uses an FV-1 chip which are used in tons of amazing digital effects (like that black hole DSP you use in a lot of videos😋). I wonder if there's a way to flash it or change the EEPROM?🤷‍♂️ Edit: an autocorrect oops

[@jammystraub488]

That would be extremely amusing. That chip is used in a lot of Eurorack effects modules. Happy Nerding's FX Aid uses it I believe. That guy works magic.

[@CrescentRollCarl]

Hi Tim. Do you know of a plugin where I can control the Typhon similar to your NymphCC? Something generic even? Sometimes I remote connect to my DAW and it would be cool to control my hardware synths remotely too. Great work as always!

[@aakash9058]

More interested in hearing your thoughts on the Nord Wave 2

[@666JGNotts]

Great video mate :) I deliberately didn't watch any of the other videos about this synth because I knew you was making one. Coupled with your software it would seem to be a no brainer to go out and buy this! As a matter of interest, did Moog every release software for the Matriarch so that you can see/alter the global settings?

[@TimShoebridge]

Thanks a lot :) There's no mention of any software downloads on Moog's website.....

[@peterfuzz3887]

you are very well equiped for a guy who simply goes to a coffee shop !

[@JX3D]

A little tip: Its actually easy to mount it (and the Typhon) in a modular environment. I has the right measurements for the front plate, and the main board (with the connectors) can be connected with a bus cable and turned 90 degrees backwards. Yes, some handy work is needed, but its possible. And yes, it hasn't got eurorack inputs and outputs, but if wanting to rack mount it, its possible.

[@JX3D]

I just noticed (as I only have the Typhon and have taken that apart) that the Nymphes doesn't have the same kind of front plate. So I am not sure the Nymphes can be mounted in eurorack without drilling new holes in the front plate. But the Typhon does fit perfectly.

[@jammystraub488]

Whaaaaaaa? Cool.

[@murisan3589]

Hello, Tim. You have Ableton Live? If yes, could you do a short video in which you explain how we can change presets automatically on a synth like Nymphes or Typhon when we move from one scene to the next? Thank you.

[@anonymousmc7727]

Love me some nord;)

[@watchaddicts1213]

I'd love to get your thoughts, Tim. For various reasons, I can add but one analog hardware piece to my midi studio. Your thought on Nymphes are very clear. That said, prior to watching the Nymphes series of videos here, I was ready to push BUY on a Monologue XD [module], primarily due to all the work and creative development you've put into the XD, not withstanding all the BANG FOR BUCK Korg packed into it and...the integration of analog synth with Korg's crazy-wild [open source] digital synth section. Seems to me that XD would truly be a sound designer's dream synth. So, the sort of dumb, difficult to answer question. Would you have to side with the XD, were you allowed only the one acquisition? Thank you. And thank you for your Top Shelf contributions!

[@TimShoebridge]

Hi Mark, I'd definitely say the XD will give you a much wider palette of sounds thanks to it's digital extensibility and to the amazing multi effects. Actually, in terms of analogue synth architecture, it's very basic, modulation capabilities are limited, but thankfully the digital side more than makes up for it. On the other hand the Nymphes has a much more vintage tone, more colour, more dirt, I honestly think for the price it is an absolute steel given what it does.

[@GertBoers]

Very nice video, again, Tim. About that Voltage Modular software: as I was afraid of, it's only available for Mac or Windows. Not for Linux, my OS of choice. I will stick to VCV Rack for modular noodling, as that open source software is available for all platforms. But I do like your software MIDI controller. Nice job!

[@skylanderofficial1835]

hi I just released a VCV Rack version of a controller for the Nymphes - Skylander - NymphesControl. It's free and open. Happy to receive feedback/bug reports.

[@rustboymusic]

Tim, do you plan to share your thoughts on Nord Wave 2? I would appreciate it greatly...

[@TimShoebridge]

I do for sure. But a few things on the list before I get to it.

[@rustboymusic]

@@TimShoebridge 🙏

[@LoVeAmBiEnT]

Firmware update maybe for the reverb. Love this synth.

[@LoVeAmBiEnT]

It can be fun. I don’t know I have enough reverb pedals actually otherwise it’s a absolutely perfect synthesizer. I love it.

[@WildernessMusic_GentleSerene]

I understand your sound design/shift frustrations. Dreadbox should have taken a look at the Roland Gaia. Yes, the Gaia has the same problem where the same control is used for each of the 3 layers. But the Gaia gives us all the control we need for designing a one oscillator sound..then...I copy that layer to the next and will all the controls in the correct position I begin adding the second layer, then on to the third layer with the same copy technique. Now for fine tuning I chose which layer and fine tune. I can design lighting fast this way and get deep patches with different filters/envelopes/LFOs for each of the three oscillators.

[@WildernessMusic_GentleSerene]

@ghost mall The monophonic sound of the Gaia is weak, yes. But it is the strongest poly synth in the world if you play big two handed chords/melodies. It is a two handed synth and has 64 voices to blend those big chords. No other synth in the worlds history can do this with tactile control and no menu (except JD800). (System8 = not enough voices, JupiterX is very close but very expensive, All workstations needs menus, all analog''s not enough voices. The math is harsh on poly's. 7 notes + 3 oscillators = 21 polyphony per chord, blend another chord with long release ADSR and we already have 42 voices used. Even in 2022 we only have 16 voices for analog.

[@WildernessMusic_GentleSerene]

@ghost mall You are correct, no synth is for everyone for sure, what did you replace it with? Lately I have been buying my first analog monosynths, to add to my digital rig. (all been analog & digital polys up till now)

[@WildernessMusic_GentleSerene]

@ghost mall Sounds like you got the best of all the worlds...and a little digital icing on your cake too. :) Rock on...or ambient on...or EDM on....or...

[@Neumah]

That's quite an interesting bokeh. Almost heart shaped balls.

[@TimShoebridge]

Probably had dirt on the lens!!

[@jammystraub488]

Part of that shape is a result of mechanical vignetting. It's when the off-axis light entering a lens is clipped by the rear edge of the lens. You tend to see it more when a fast lens is used wide open. There are a few other subtle things there. For what it's worth, I love it. -bokeh nerd.

[@ginociancio1]

Hi Tim I was going to buy this dreadbox what do you think is it better then roland boutique I need your help, and I love your videos thanks

[@TimShoebridge]

Hey Gino. It's not necessarily better or worse because that really depends on what you want, but it is definitely different. For me the Nymphes is a living breathing analog instrument, real analog circuitry designed and assembled by a small bunch of guys whose products I really love. It has passion and character built in, it's not perfect, but it's unique 👍

[@cristiannaldi826]

Hi Tim, thank you for the video. I've retutned mine because the envelopes are so noisy, no matter if its usb powered or with an external power supply. If you have patches with the filter closed off a lot then the envelopes clicking/scratching can be annoying in recordings. For live playing it would be fine because it would not be that bad in the mix. But for recording its a pretty bad problem to have. Did you have the same problem? thanks

[@TimShoebridge]

Hi Christian. No I did not have problems with noise. But that said, it has taken me a lot of trial and error to eliminate noise with USB powered instruments like the Nymphes and Typhon.

[@cristiannaldi826]

@@TimShoebridge thank you for your answer. So its related to the usb power, right? Can you suggest me a method to avoid this problem? Thank you very much

[@TimShoebridge]

@@cristiannaldi826 In my case the noise I have had with various synths has been caused by ground loops. I'm not saying that is the case with your Nymphes but it is certainly worth trying a few things. I am absolutely no expert on this topic at all but a few suggestions I can make.... Try powering from a mains USB adapter (these can vary in quality immensely, some I tried cause interference, others don't). When trying different adapters unplug your synth from your mixer/audio interface and only listen via headphones. If noise is eliminated but comes back when audio is reconnected then you have a ground loop issue If the synth's power requirements allow it (can't remember with Nymphes) then you can try powering from a USB power brick to see if noise is eliminated. If it is then you know for sure you have a ground loop issue. The other thing to try is a "hum destroyer", it sits between synth and your audio interface and should break any ground loop. Some hum destroyers are better than others. You can get similar devices that work with USB in and out, I tried a few but none of them worked for me.

[@cristiannaldi826]

@@TimShoebridge you're very kind, thank you

[@zap7759]

How does this sound next to a prophet or "recent" Nord synth? Looking for something with a different vibe than those (Lead 4, Pro-1, Repro).

[@TimShoebridge]

It's a very analogue sound. You could describe it as raw I guess. I'm sure it would compliment a Nord very well. Very different user interface though

[@zap7759]

@@TimShoebridge Thanks 👍

[@Musical.Maze.1]

Can you connect two (2) Nymphes (35:58) together for a 12 voices synth? Will it work?

[@TimShoebridge]

Using my software you can poly chain two Nymphes together :) The synths by themselves do not support poly chaining

[@jamietopolski4019]

The Dreadbox Nymphes and the Waldorf Pulse 2 are very similar in price (within $50 USD). Do you have any thoughts regarding their relative strengths and weaknesses?

[@TimShoebridge]

The Nymphes is a true polyphonic analogue synth, the Pulse 2 is fundamentally an analogue mono synth with some clever but limited paraphonic capabilities.

[@Sweenah94]

id love if someone made an editor like that for the Micromonsta 2. Such a great synth but could definitely do with an editor.

[@andys6592]

I'm also stuck between this and the micromonsta lol. Almost too many options. I currently ordered a Typhon and micromonsta but this nymphs is so tempting too especially with an editor

[@Sweenah94]

@@andys6592 i actually found an editor for the micromonsta 2 and its pretty good.

[@andys6592]

@@Sweenah94 oh wow that's awesome. Is it also compatible with the original micromonsta? What's the name of the editor you use?

[@fredrikwilhelmsen8423]

looking forward to the software editor you're making - has anyone else with nymphes experienced crashes ? .. especially when you're about to save a preset.. .. power off and on, starts the synth again, but the patch you were working is gone... annoying.. updates might fix this, or maybe a new motherboard *sigh* .. early adopter woes.

[@TimShoebridge]

Must admit I've had no crashes at all, but then again I have not saved too many patches in the last 3 weeks

[@normdurkin6425]

sounds great other than that atrocious reverb.. reverb is my favorite effect but I especially dislike spring reverbs.. they sound very unnatural in my opinion.. great video professor thank you..

[@henryhill92]

What's wrong with unnatural? Synthesizers by their very nature sound unnatural

[@normdurkin6425]

@@henryhill92 ..that's not true at all I can make my Juno 106, prophet 08 and minilogue sounds like a bass guitar.. I can make my Prophet 08 sound like an electric organ or even pipe organ and bells..

[@watchaddicts1213]

RE: The Mono Output circumstance. Would it be possible to run the Nymphes Audio OUT into Typhon , then A) expose Nymphes audio to Typhon's Effects and B) outbound the whole THING via Typhon's Stereo Out and....TAH DAH! I'm sure there's something horribly flawed with my notion, but thought I'd present it to the Synth Sage anyway.

[@TimShoebridge]

Hi Mark, Yes you can use the Typhon as an effects unit in this way, the only thing to consider is that the external audio input enters the Typhon's signal path before the filter, so that audio will run through filter, amplifier and then effects. You will need that signal path open in order to hear the external audio, there are various ways to achieve this, I cover a couple in my Typhon review video.

[@geofff6671]

don’t own a Nymphes……….yet. But the editor looks to be a great tool.

[@galifettetv1238]

Hi Tim, hpw would you rank it vs direct competitors, deepmind 12 or minilogue xd?

[@TimShoebridge]

If we put the interface aside, sound wise I think the Nymphes sounds more raw, more weighty, more characterful. Dare I say it sounds more like a vintage analogue poly synth would sound. I always found the Deepmind to sound weak until you start adding effects, don’t get me wrong you can create amazing patches with the Deepmind but for me the key to doing so is the comprehensive effects section. And as for the XD, the analogue side is very precise, it doesn’t scream out at me as being an analog synth. The digital oscillator and extendible effects allow for a very wide variety of sounds but it doesn’t have that raw analog quality of the Nymphes. So with Nymphes it’s the raw sound, but it’s a mono output and you need external effects. With the other two they really are a one stop shop to great patches but I think that’s largely due to their onboard effects and digital extensibility in the case of the XD........

[@galifettetv1238]

​​@@TimShoebridge That s actually the reason why I sold my deepmind module, and why I m not really convinced by the minilogue. I m looking for the same feeling my beloved typhon can provide...

[@galifettetv1238]

​@@TimShoebridgehi Tim. Finally bought a Nymphes. Wonderful music instrument. As the Typhon, it s a living gear. Definitely designed to be played, thanks to the easy to configure velocity, aftertouch and mod wheel. Thanks for the review and answers to my questions above.

[@diegob6729]

Notation Peak vs Dreadbox Nymphes, what would you choose? 😅

[@TimShoebridge]

Very very different synths. For me the Nymphes is all about the raw analogue sound and the portability whereas the Peak is all about convenience, patch storage, built-in effects, mod routings and wavetables. They compliment each other very well imho

[@afnannn]

Whats really the difference between calling it a review and giving your opinion. I really enjoy your take however your frame it

[@gossamyr]

I love idea and concept, I just can't pay that much for that little, it's a volca, minus the sarcastic sequencer. The used market will be flooded with these in 18 months, I'll wait.

[@mattayre7746]

Can we save the Nymph patches created on a computer on the Nymphes so that we don't have to always have it plugged into the NymphesCC?

[@TimShoebridge]

Hi, you can at any time save the patch you are working on using NymphCC as a native preset in your Nymphes. However you can not go the other way around - NymphCC does not have access to or understand the format of Nymphes presets. Hope that makes sense.

[@mattayre7746]

@@TimShoebridge Thanks, that makes sense

[@smalltown4855]

let us praise the giant disc, it is the moon peoples dream. only then might they bathe in the silver light of the holy fires of the shingle people.

[@The_Invisible_Man]

How to get pitch per note in MPE? Is it possible?

[@vincewatson_official]

I had it for a week, and sent it back. I simply could not get past the menu diving, it was a confusing mess at times, and sometimes I forgot whether I had selected something and had to do it again to be sure....thats not good design. I love the company and all they stand for, but they could/should have taken more time to have a better UI for the menu as well as another output. 6 voices in mono...nah.

[@TimShoebridge]

Yes agree 100% it is a shame the synth isn't stereo given it has a reverb effect, I don't think stereo would have really added much to the cost. But mono analogue synths seem to be back in vogue, Sequential's rather expensive Prophet 5 Rev4 with its mono output was warmly received by many and possibly sets a trend. The Nymphes interface will definitely not be for many people and my own growing frustrations were why I built a software controller. For me, it's a solution that is acceptable but again, using a mouse is not for everyone either....

[@Paul_Grace]

Hi, with regards to the user interface, the Roland Gaia was the same. Three internal synths sharing the same buttons and sliders, making editing a pain. A software editor fixed that...but...it begs the question what do we want from a hardware synth? We have reached a point where software synths sound as good or better than hardware synths (UHE Diva for example) so there really is no sonic advantage over working outside the box. I've yet to hear any sound outside the box that couldn't be created inside. For performance use hardware makes more sense as audiences don't like to see lap tops on stage in small venues. In live use the more theatrical an instrument looks the better. A black slab plastic case instrument is not so entertaining for an audience compared to something with knobs and dials that the performer can wring like air guitar. The Nymphes loses out on live performance use due to being invisible and fiddly to perform on. Most people however don't play live, so this is where the Nymphes has to compete with soft synths at a fraction of the price, taking no space up and being truly portable and integrated. I think the market for Nymphes was back in the 1990's - pre VST - and Dave Smith developed very similar products at that time. These days nostalgia is a powerful thing and small hardware recreations have a viable market as Behringer has discovered, but as I see it the Nymphes doesn't really have a unique selling point. Why should I consider buying it? Well done to Dread Box for bringing out another new product, but are they offering a solution for something that doesn't really exist these days.Have they built something because they can? It's not all roses for the software companies either as musicians have never had it so good. I used to have to pay thousands of pounds for hardware synths back in the day just to get quality sounds like a believable piano, but now incredible instruments come for free in DAWs or even as third party plug ins, Vital Audio are a good example with their free Vital synth. Not trying to pour water on a new product that some people might be getting excited about, just keeping it real, and for me, I focus on making music rather than buying future inevitable land fill when the next new and greatest door stop is launched. Lastly Congratulations on the software editor you developed for it, the most interesting thing in the presentation. You are very talented, keep it up! Cheers Paul :-)

[@nathandavidhall]

I suppose live in a smallish venue the Nymphes still has the "cool looking" factor as you could pretty easily see it on a desktop/stand depending on proximity, and could even fit on a pedalboard if someone wasn't planning to manipulate it live (i.e. only use saved patches for live keyboard playing and/or ext midi controller like Launch Control)

[@FLH3official]

Did Dreadbox's people read Havelock Ellis? 😄 It's all about nymphs.

[@TimShoebridge]

Now you've just given me something to research! ;)

[@willemm1998]

Is there a link for the software?

[@dharmaone77]

does the editor work as an au/vst plugin?

[@TimShoebridge]

Yes

[@paulheskett8358]

Coffees are on me… 😉☕️☕️

[@watchaddicts1213]

"WatchAddicts"....its still ME, Tim. This is simply Brilliant! I have One more question and, thankfully, it's NOT to do with routings and OTHER boxes. Will save THAT for another day. I heard one, fairly well known KZbinr review this synth...and mention YOUR controller. He concluded that, your controller is brilliant, BUT... ("BUT"...WHAT???) but favored learning the synth and not integrating it with software...to be PURE on ORGANIC and, I guess, to have SEX with the synth. I dunno. I get his point, I suppose, but, DAY IN AND OUT, why would one ever want to FLY BLIND all the time with Nymphes? Again, dunno. A bit silly. My brain is relatively small; I want to see EVERY SLIDER I can SEE when creating a patch. I know I keep harping on this, but, I promise, my NEXT, MONO QUESTION is a brand new topic, so thank heavens, right. At this point, it's up for grabs as to whether I'll enter a REHAB as a cure for repetitive listening of this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fmTLgGCvlsighKs I say, "I've got this...I can stop anytime that I want." But that's not really true; I can't. Four...FIVE times a day and each day, I day I'll do less tomorrow. I have blown through nearly 200K worth of SYNTHS since 2010 and have NEVER heard a synth of mine sound like the NYMPHES in that video! Ok, I'm done now.

[@videotowatch2000]

If it's going to be portable, why the hell can't they use micro usb and 1/8" i/o and midi for portable/micro studio setups? Otherwise it's likeable.