Dear Elektronauts, I’m a happy owner of a Model:Cycles and a long-time Reason Studios user. As everybody else, I naturally need more gear. Currently I have been looking for something that would fit these specifications:
-simple synth capabilities like FM or virtual analog
-At least 4 voice polyphony
-works as a midi controller for playing melodies on the model cycles, no need for pads or buttons
-at least basic sound shaping capabilities for internal sounds, like AM/FM envelopes and filter resonance and cutoff
-would not mind having built-in delay/reverb but not absolutely mandatory
-25 keys, no need for full-size but not extremely small like the cheapest small synth/grooveboxes
-very portable, like the size of a Akai MPK Mini with 25 keys
-Both USB and battery powered
Is there anything out there like this for less than 500EUR/550USD? The Akai MPK Mini MK3 almost fits the bill, but the internal sample-based sounds are too simple for my taste. The Arturia MicroFreak would otherwise be my choice, but the non-moving keys are a showstopper. The Yamaha Reface keyboards are too big. The Modal Cobalt 5S is almost “it”, but it’s too big. And unfortunately in this case, a laptop/iPad/iPhone + a small controller won’t work.
Any ideas?
Sebastian
