I’m looking to add a synth to my DT2 to play lead.
I make hypnotic (hard) techno and I’m looking for a (mono) synth to play that typical-hypnotic-techno-lead-sequence. These are the “ideal” features, in rough order of importance:
= able to be sequenced externally (will use DT2 for sequencing)
= simple synth but with enough controls for performing live (screen not required)
= similar footprint to DT2 or smaller
= ability to store and recall patches
= ideally can also do some 303-like acid sounds
= on-board delay and/or reverb (I can also add external FX with pedals if needed but currently don’t own any)
= distinct voice character (it can be analog or digital)
Here are some synths that meet some requirements but none of them are ideal:
= Quadrantid Swarm
= Behringer Edge
= Syntakt
= Cre8audio West Pest or East Beast
= Erica Synths Perkons HD-01
I know that my “ideal” may not exist. Any other synths that I have not considered yet?
I’m also open to explore eurorack modules if the perfect one exists (although I’m not into euroracks right now but I’m considering for future).
The Syntakt is great, and it can definitely do some squelchy acid bass, but it’s hard to recommend since the patch does not persist between patterns (i.e no “kit” style behavior). How much of a problem that is depends on how you structure your songs. Reverb and delay are good, and the analog drive adds a nice crunch to the sound.
Is it distinctive? Maybe But it’s really easy to dial in a bass sound that makes me happy. Can’t say that for other synths I’ve used. And it can sound huuuge if you mix it right
It might be an obvious thing to ask: but since you’re only looking at mono synths and plan on sequencing it with the DT2 anyway… have you tried using single cycle waveforms with the DT2 to use one of its tracks as a mono synth?
One of the big changes vs DT1 seemed to be a lot more options for using it as a synth now; e.g. an ASDR amp envelope rather than just AHD.
Yes, that’s exactly what I’m doing right now and it sounds really good. I’m also using samples that I chop using the Grid and assign to random trigs. Both lots of fun.
To modulate the sound during the song, I’m using filter, amp and FX settings and this is why I want to have a dedicated hardware synth, so I can play with the lead sound while I do other changes on the DT.
Yes, I did consider this but I want to create separate inputs into the OT (using EZBOT’s Performance Template) so I can add FXs to drum sounds coming from the DT while not affecting the lead sound.
Btw, are you Tchu from Montreal? If yes, I saw you play twice at Brain Freeze. Very nice performances!
Yes, I have considered a controller, it was my first option.
I was looking at the Faderfox PC4 or Novation Launch Control XL but the total cost (with the required USB hub for the Novation) was similar to an inexpensive synth.
So, I figured, why not get a synth instead and have a lot more sound option.
But it’s really easy to dial in a bass sound that makes me happy. Can’t say that for other synths I’ve used. And it can sound huuuge if you mix it right