So after spending some time with the DNII (6 months) I came to the same conclusion as @janbert.
On paper, DNII is my “dream groovebox” regarding features, fx, sound design posibilities, polyphony (and a real polyphonic sequencer) and so much more.
But I realised (once again) that a musical device is not just a sum of its features. It’s also about ease (and speed) of use, the sound “signature”, design philosophy, and in a way its limitations.
And FM synthesis, it’s just not my thing. It feels like a second language: I can read it, I can have a conversation with it, but expression with nuance costs me much more energy because I have to do math all the time to keep up the pace.
With Syntakt I got used to the “algorithms” of the machines very fast. They are limited, but there are enough machines to create enough variation in sound (especially after 1.30). And the analog tracks have something extra, emphasised by the analog filters.
For example, I’m a big fan of @Nils music created with the Syntakt, sometimes posted in the that syntakt sound thread (for example this 2nd track, the chord progression, it’s awesome, just like this one).
It has something sparkling, organic, which inspires me all the time.
And it makes me miss my Syntakt, my most productive groovebox ever, which I sold to finance the DNII. I regret it so I’m going back. On Syntakt, sound design costs me no effort. It fits my brain, I was very productive with it and of all the boxes out there I enjoy(ed) the Syntakt the most.
Life lesson: Never sell your Syntakt (again)!
EDIT: Found a good deal for a DNII so now I have both 