Modern Synthesizers, Sticking to Timeless Tones for Contemporary Music Creators
In the realm of music production, the analog synthesizer has made a comeback, offering a unique warmth and depth to live performances. For beginners, the Behringer TD-3 Series provides an excellent introduction to classic synth sounds without overwhelming complexity. This user-friendly interface is a prominent figure in the modern analog revival, offering retro sounds with modern capabilities.
Established producers often rely on the TD-3 Series for lead sounds to basslines, but there are several other noteworthy analog synthesizers with distinctive sounds and playing experiences. The Minimoog Model D, with its intuitive interface and powerful sound, is a standout example. The Yamaha CS-80 and ARP Odyssey are other notable analog synthesizers, each offering their own unique characteristics.
The Sequential Take 5 Desktop Module, with its 5-voice polyphonic capabilities, delivers classic Sequential sound in a compact desktop format. It features two oscillators per voice offering continuously variable waveforms and a resonant low-pass filter derived from the Prophet-5 Rev 4. Another notable model is the KORG microKORG 2, an updated version of the original widely popular microKORG, which doubles polyphony from 4 to 8 voices, allowing richer and more complex arrangements.
The Behringer Wave Synthesizer is a modern clone of the classic PPG Wave 2.2/2.3 digital/analog hybrid synth, incorporating wave-table and analog synthesis to recreate famous 80s digital textures with modern enhancements. The Moog Realistic Concertmate MG-1, originally a budget analog synth from 1981, is now highly prized for its warm, rich analog sound with dual VCOs and a genuine Moog 24 dB/oct low-pass filter.
The Novation Summit, though released in 2019, is considered ahead of its time due to its advanced FPGA oscillators and extensive modulation capabilities. It offers a unique hybrid digital oscillator sound, binaural mode, dual filter modes, three types of distortion, and wavetable synthesis, allowing it to emulate many classic synths as well as produce futuristic sounds.
Each model stands out for different reasons: Take 5 for authentic classic polyphonic analog sound in a compact module; microKORG 2 for expanded polyphony and versatile VA synthesis with vocoder; Behringer Wave for vintage wave-table hybrid sounds; MG-1 for classic Moog analog bass timbres at a low price point; and Novation Summit for cutting-edge hybrid synthesis and deep programming flexibility.
Incorporating analog synths into live performances can provide warm, rich sounds, while digital synths offer versatility in composition with the ability to emulate a variety of sounds. When selecting an analog synthesizer, consider features like oscillators, filters, and modulation capabilities, as well as ease of use and quality of build. Additionally, consider whether you prefer analog or digital, polyphonic or monophonic, and look for additional features like modulation, sequencers, and built-in effects.
Modern analog synths often offer more stability and reliability, with additional features for deeper sound exploration, but purists might find that vintage models possess an unmatched authenticity and rawness. The Arturia MiniBrute is another synth contributing to the analog revival, known for its unique Steiner-Parker filter and Brute Factor. The Roland Juno-106 and the MiniMoog Model D are considered legendary for their warm tones and intuitive controls.
The Yamaha DX7 revolutionized the industry with its FM synthesis capabilities, providing new textures and timbres for musicians. Digital synths offer presets and recall functions, making for efficient stage performances, and often allow integration with DAWs. Ultimately, the choice between analog and digital synths comes down to personal preference and the specific sound you're aiming to achieve.
- The Behringer TD-3 Series, a popular choice for music production, is used by established producers for lead sounds to basslines, offering a unique blend of retro and modern capabilities in the realm of analog synthesizers.
- The Sequential Take 5 Desktop Module, an appealing choice for those seeking authentic classic polyphonic analog sound, delivers classic Sequential sound in a compact format, featuring 5-voice polyphonic capabilities and a sound derived from the Prophet-5 Rev 4.
- The Novation Summit, a modern synth released in 2019, is renowned for its advanced FPGA oscillators, extensive modulation capabilities, and ability to emulate many classic synths, making it a contender for those seeking cutting-edge hybrid synthesis and deep programming flexibility.
- The Yamaha DX7, a digital synth that revolutionized the industry, offers presets and recall functions for efficient stage performances, plus the ability to integrate with DAWs, providing versatility in composition with the ability to emulate a variety of sounds.
