Without a screen it’s difficult to keep track of things using the hardware alone, but fortunately, TE has created a free control app (currently iOS-only, but forthcoming for Android too). The audio tracks are divided into two groups, with the first four set up as sample-based drum tracks and the latter as melodic instruments that can each make use of a variety of synthesis engines.
Of those tracks, eight generate audio while the other eight are used for effect manipulation and external control. At its core the OP-Z has a 16-track, 16-step sequencer. What actually is the OP-Z? A synth? A sampler? An audio-visual sequencer? The answer is, to some extent at least, all of the above. Needs an iOS device to get the most out of it -Limited audio export options It takes everything we liked about the original - the analogue grit, interesting oscillator shaping and Brute factor control, which overdrives the signal chain using a controlled feedback loop - and expands on it considerably. A serious competitor, then, and the same can be said of the MiniBrute 2S, which swaps the keys for a pad-based step sequencer. On the whole, the MiniBrute 2 is a real success.
Korg poly 800 tempo plus#
Where the original was a fairly straightforward monosynth with a few unique touches and some CV control, the MiniBrute 2 is semi-modular, boasting a beefed- up synth engine and a comprehensive mini-jack patchbay. As before, the primary oscillator can generate saw, triangle and square waves simultaneously, the outputs of which are blended via the oscillator mixer, where they’re joined by a white noise source and external audio input.įilter-wise, the MiniBrute 2 keeps the Steiner-Parker-style filter of its predecessor, which offers -12dB low- and high-pass modes, plus -6dB band-pass and notch filtering. Osc 2 pitch control is a little too close to the filter cutoff It's not without its limitations - the lack of polyphony leaves it lagging behind the original DX7, Yamaha's Reface DX, and the various FM plugins out there - but the sound of those dark, percussive basses, icy mallets and '80s-style horns is bang on, and if you start to push the capabilities of this tweakable, hands-on little synth, you'll find it's capable of some truly unique tricks. Where the other models have merely captured the general vibe of the instruments they took their inspiration from - albeit in a very fun and affordable way - the FM manages not only to nail the sound of its spiritual predecessor, but also adds an assortment of new and powerful features. This is easily the best of the Volca range so far. It's equipped with a ribbon-style keyboard-come-sequencer, built-in speaker, MIDI input and 3.5mm sync in/out. The Volca FM is a compact, battery-powerable instrument, housed in a plastic chassis with a design that gives a cheeky stylistic nod to the Yamaha DX7 from which it takes its sonic cues. The original Minilogue already was - and, in fact, still is - a very versatile analogue synth. That said, there’s no denying that it offers excellent value in terms of the sonic flexibility you get for your money. With a price point above £500/$500, it’s arguable that the Korg Minilogue XD is pushing the boundaries of what can be considered a ‘cheap’ synthesizer. Follow MusicRadar on Instagram to stay up to date with the latest gear news, artist interviews and tech tutorials.īest cheap synthesizers: MusicRadar's Choice.If you'd rather get straight to the products, keep scrolling. We've included some expert buying advice at the end of this guide, so hit the 'buying advice' tab above if you'd like to read more.
Whether you're a beginner looking for your first synth, or a sound designer looking to add something new to your arsenal, there's a budget synth out there to suit everyone. In some cases, you don’t even have to choose between the two, but we'll get to that. Digital synthesizers have a lot to offer, too, but there are great options in both camps. You’ll know yourself what’s important to your sound, but analogue (or analog, if you prefer) is undoubtedly fashionable - and well-represented at the budget end of the market.
You've got options when it comes to sound engines, too.