I’m looking for a small polysynth module to add to my setup. I really enjoy the 1 knob per function of my Microbrute so I would like this in the polysynth module too. I’ll be using it for chords and pads and will be sequencing it with my Octatrack. I’ve been looking at the Roland JU-06 but I’m concerned the knobs and sliders are a bit small.
Any suggestion?
You want my Prophet 6 Module 
I have a JP-08 and a JU-06. The sliders on the JP-08 are really a bit tiny (even though they still feel nice and responsive), but those on the JU-06 are perfectly usable for live tweaking and for finding sweet spots IMHO.
Unless you have massive hands, the JU-06 is probably fine. It really does sound brilliantly.
I DO want a prophet 8 module but my bank account does not 
Thanks for the info about the JU-06, my hands are regular size 
, so that looks like a good option.
Here’s a new one, based on a previous DIY design. New product is 8 voices, plus wavetables. 3 LFOs!
http://audiothingies.com/product/micromonsta/
Roughly the size of a Volca, but with full sized knobs.
That does look great but I’m concerned about the menu diving for making patches…
@Grate_expectations, if you have an OT then you can very easily assign OT knobs for the CCs you find the most interesting !
You can even use all 8 MIDI tracks x10 assignable CCs for it !!
And p-lock each one of them, LFO them…
Use the ARPs…
Then get the signal back on a THRU audio track and process it further (rrr filter distorsion) !
I love such use of the OT, it’s so much fun !!
(I use it this way with Volcas, Moog Slim Phatty, Blofeld or Shruthi-1 and it greatly expand each synth capabilities)
Polyphony?
Multitimbrality?
Budget?
Minimum 4 note polyphony
I don’t need multitimbrality
$500 or less
Most important consideration is the size ( I don’t have much space left in my studio) and I really would prefer 1 knob per function. Since I picked up my Microbrute I’ve learned so much more about synthesis and avoided my bad habit of preset browsing. I now want a polyphonic synth to do the same.
Smaller than the original Nord Rack?
Nope, that would be an ideal size.
The System 1m links up well with the Minibrute. I’ve been having fun patching cables although I haven’t the foggiest about what I’m doing. It is (probably) my most favourite synth. I had a JD-Xi but didn’t like the menu diving so I exchanged it. I’ve got two Roland Boutique’s but they don’t have any CC info (EDIT: just found this but I don’t know what any of it means - http://cdn.roland.com/assets/media/pdf/JP-08_MIDI_Imple_e01_W.pdf - is it deep or does it barely scratch the surface. I’m guessing the later but I really don’t know. I heard the Minitaur links well too and although I also have that the patching capabilities aren’t the same as the semi-modular System 1m - it takes quarter inch jacks as opposed to regular mini jacks.
Now you’ve got the basics and bug of synth ritz I’d go for the System 1m. It has the most knobs out of all my synth and I get lost for hours. On top of that there is the stimulating area of unchartered modular territory. Even without these possibilities it is still my most versatile synth. How much polyphony are you realistically going to use? I used to think that the more polyphony the wider my creative expression but after the years rolled by I realize that a couple of oscillators on a mono synth is enough. The System 1m has only the same as the Roland Boutiques - four voices.
I have a System-1 and I really rate the sound and control. The plugouts genuinely add something. It’s a very convincing SH-101. Though the SH-2 is probably my favourite to just play with and find new sounds.
Access virus classic might work though it’s got a bit of menu diving
The advantage over nord is that it’s got nice fx too
Novation circuit is small , I like the sounds too. Knobs are assigned to main parameters.
I have the software versions, they sound great. Don’t think roland have released any polyphonic Plugouts yet tho?
How about a Blofeld?
If Menu diving is a pb, I wouldn’t advise Blofeld (even if most of the controls are available from the front panel)
No that’s true, all the plug-outs so far keep the polyphony switch locked out (but then they are all monosynth emulations). The internal engine sounds great too though.
Seriously, just get that JU-06.
I’m holding out for the JU-06 plug-out. 