One of my first synths was a DX100. I didn't pick it because I loved it, I picked it because it was cheap and I found a used one that was even cheaper. I couldn't really figure out how to program it, so I used presets and effects to sculpt the sounds. I got a lot of great sounds out of that setup. By the time I started working in music retail, that's where Yamaha was. I never saw any Yamaha analogs in the shop around 1983. I was only dimly aware of the CS-80 because of Blade Runner.I think it's ineresting to see all these emulations of vintage synths. I am old enough to remember very clearly when they came out. I also worked as an electronics repair tech for most of my early life so I know full well how difficult it was to maintain them. The CS80 was always on my list (40 years ago) of synths I wanted. I settled for a more affordable Jupiter 6. Very different beasts but both were a lot of fun. The CS80 was always bigger and thicker sounding to me, or at least the sounds I gravitated to. Yes, without all the effects of modern synths, the CS80 sounds pretty boring. I always looked at all the earlier synths as building blocks where I would layer them and add my own external effects. I know I sound like an old man now, but I do miss those days. I'd buy a new synth and then work at learning it for months as I incorporated it into my band and records. That "magic" is sort of gone now. Plugins are very good but there is something about tactile switches and knobs that allows you to be more creative, if you are into sound design. I 100% do not miss fixing them though.
I'm rambling....
I didn't really get deeply into synthesis until the early 90s, and by that time digital had become ubiquitous. I got used to all that it offered, and going back to analog felt weird, like something was missing. Like ordering an ala carte steak and wondering why it didn't come with any sides or even sauce. It took me a bit to get it. What you lack in modulation and effects, you make up for in subtle things. I think Model 77 nails that, but if you're used to the Arturia emulations, you'll feel like it's too plain, but that's the point. You get to add what you like and craft what you want.
Statistics: Posted by zerocrossing — Sat Sep 28, 2024 8:45 pm