Partly thanks to your review, I recently picked up the desktop version. An incredibly versatile synthesizer that is so easy and logical to use despite its complexity. Truly remarkable!
i also like the little things like having the panic option really close to the home button and near the shift button. small things that count but when notes are stuck, finding the panic button quick is really usefull but there's no need to have it seperate. their solution is really good!
I think this is the first time I've seen a new synth that comes in a module version that I kind of would rather the full keyboard. So I'm left kind of wanting both. Cheers to this kind of marketing though(!): Specs, Pics, Vids, Price, no Q's left, no Teasy BS. So, big shout out to ASM for treating us like adults.🤘🏻
3 years after buying the desktop (which is rack mounted in the studio) I picked up the full sized one one the second hand market and it now has pride of place in the studio as well.
was thinkin the same, mon ; ) ...and was thinkin on all the times i thought a complaint about no poly aftertouch was just whining. but now i understand! some synths dropping now, like the roland jupiter x, modal, etc.., but this one is sweet.
what i find amazing is that this is the 1st synth from this company - it sounds good - looks good - v good build quality and has this amazing UI - they really did a good job for a first synth...
It’s 12 June 2024, and I just got an Explorer five days ago. When I first had the idea of getting this one, I thought the user interface was counterintuitive. That was a big no-no; it is definitely more intuitive than the other analog emulation synthesizer I have, the microKorg XL. Furthermore, XL only has 128 patches overall. This one has 10 times that money, and half of them are geared for you to create your own patches.
I have been testing the desktop at a shop here in Berlin for an hour and have found the pads to be unplayable. They are really hard, do not respond at all to tapping. They are not pads but buttons. Therefore velocity response is also terrible. If you play slow, they are fine. Try fast playing, you get lost notes or aching fingers. Sounds amazing though, and can get really experimental. I was hoping that I could use the desktop model and its pads as an improvisation instrument, but with this level of rigidity, the pads are not really stage friendly. However, the hydrasynth may shine when played with the new Launchpad with its poly aftertouch capable pads Edit: I ended up buying the Desktop. I still think the pads are bad. They are more of a help for sound programming than a playing surface. The synth is great though.
So, if you're such a pad lover then but the keyboard version, obviously. Clearly they have invested so much research on the keybed and ribbon strip, just buy that and enjoy.
@@weplaywax yes you need an adapter for midi, sustain and expression pedals, which I have. I am happy with it but then i am not much of a keyboard player. I use the hydrasynth more for sound design and abstract improvisation . Since my first comment here, I have discovered that most presets are deigned with the keyboard in mind and therefore don’t play well with the pads. With a few tweaks, they responded better (less bad) to pads. And then I deleted almost all presets :)
But-a small design flaw-the power switch is also recessed. So if not connected to a master power switch, it’s a pain every time you want to turn off/on.
@@alanshewitt thing is,put the switch higher on the back, it gets in the way with rackmount. in the front, u can hit it by accident. So i guess recessed was a good compromise. other than that, i wouldn't use that switch and just get a power extension box with a switch.
No joke, today marks the third time I've watched this review. I've ordered a Hydrasynth and just have to wait about a week for it to be delivered, I sure am excited for it. I'm really grateful for your reviews Loopop as watching them means I have a huge understanding of how to actually use the synth before I even get it. You can bet I'll be watching this again on the day my Hydrasynth arrives, this time with the Hydrasynth sitting on my lap. (desktop version, of course.)
Seems like the synthesis architecture was more than a little inspired by the Waldorf (micro)Q and the Blofeld :) The extensive oscillator mutation capabilities are a fitting extension.
The pads on the module are great. Since you can choose the scale, I might make fewer mistakes than I do on the keyboard. One of putting thing about modules and desktops is that they are often mute and you have to trigger them from outside, always. So much thought has gone into these designs, it seems.
Finally someone who actually designs things properly. This is so important because the last thing you want is to be distracted with menus and a difficult flow to follow.
Weighing in at ~50 mins, this is an astounding review. I'm not sure my trips to the loo were indicative of the length or how excited I got over this synth! The features, the clarity of the layout and the sheer quality of the sound of it have sold me. This is the one Loopster, this is the divorce. This is not some little Pocket Operator you can just explain away. No. Not at all. I and my divorce attorney thank you for (another) awesome review. ;D
I watched your video, realized that this is the polysynth that I've been searching for a while and directly went to a local shop. Returned to home, played a bit and now watching the video again to get some more tips and tricks. Thank you so much for the clean and smooth review!
Finally a direct method to access complex parameters directly in an easy to understand and well organized fashion . This ethos is bulletproof. And it also sounds focused and pointed towards electronic music folk as a synth first. Also the non cluttered interface is gorgeous! And the choice of the desktop version with shift commands or the keyboard version with direct access to all functionality is a great design choice. Peace Christo 👽🎶🐕🛸☮️💀😉🙏✌️
Too bad that Clavia decided to dumb down their engines, take many interesting synthesis features away and make their gear appealing to the simpleton live band crowd. No offense against live keyboarders, they are surely an important demographic and possibly also the most relevant customer group, but the producers, sound designers and musicians loving deep, complex synthesis are left behind and straight up ignored. The Nord Modular G2 is IMHO still one of the greatest digital synths and at the same time possibly the most interesting concept, but they've simply abandonned it and are not interested in rebooting it ever again. It apparently doesn't fit to their business plan. However, I've read somewhere that the Nord Modular development almost drove Clavia into bankrupcy, so maybe that's why they are so reluctant from making niche products, which might be too risky from a financial point of view, in contrast to the simple Nord Lead / Wave / Electro / Stage boards for the masses. Okay, there is Eurorack which is blowing up nowadays, but still, digital modulars have got their justification and can do stuff you can't do on an analog modular (or it's extremely hard and expensive to do), like patch storage, polyphony and expandability without the need for spending tons of cash for new modules and it's a shame that this concept got abandonned. Despite all the interesting new synths coming up these days and the new love for digital hardware, wavetable, FM and other synthesis forms, there is no hardware like the NMG2 around and it's a big shame.
well only with the 3 first minutes I'm in . poly AT, ribbon, compact and great sound! ..... that flowchart with the buttons is very reminiscent of ensoniq esq-1, which I own and love.
JobimMusic yes, reminded me of ESQ1 also. Reckon this could reach into much of the same sonic territory, be interested in hearing the bit-reduction in more depth
Loopop has the best synth review content on youtube right now. Even better than Sonic State as far as how comprehensive it is. Truly though I'll tell you, BoBeats should be embarrassed. What an absolute clickbait tool he is - generating fluff nothing content by comparison.
@@trancodingertranscodinger387 His fatal flaw in my view is in thinking I like his personality or that I watch synthesizer videos for some face or personality. I do not. I watch them for quality of content and his are basically fluffy advertisements and not much else.
@@maccagrabme thanks for the feedback. Since, I've heard it. Honestly, the Cobalt 8 creates some of the deepest sounds I've ever heard. I've since purchased a Korg Kronos and Korg Wavestate. I heard about the Cobalt 8 after my purchase and I completely immersed by it's deep pulsating sounds. However, my studio is now too large. I appreciate your feedback.
The macro feature where you can tweak a parameter, without it actually changing the sound until you hit the button, is a feature I've never seen on a synth, but I immediately wish all my synths had it. Such a useful little feature for live performance. I don't know yet if I'm going to buy the Hydrasynth, but if I do, that feature is definitely one of the factors drawing me in.
I just want to know with the change in the MIDI specification, as to whether it is MPE responsive when MIDIed to something like a Linnstrument or a Roli Seaboard Rise.
You watch - this thing would be a threat to Behringer, but I wouldn’t be surprised if there was some kind of collaboration. Behringer makes analog, ASM will make Virtual Analog. Plus, Behringer only recently (a few months ago) developed one of the first polyphonic aftertouch keyboards in the last ten years. My bet, is that Uli is helping out this ‘lone ranger’ ASM Owner who’s departed Arturia to start this company.
Yep, all the OEM's and smaller guys are working this powerful way now .... the MODX was 'sold' due to this way of "free" marketing. Ideal for Co.'s now ...
I watched this months ago before I bought the desktop version (you're basically responsible for my buying decision, so thanks!) and was a bit confused about some of the controls. I decided to rewatch this video rather than watching videos of other synths I'm lusting over and so glad I did. Helped me to understand some deeper features I've not been anywhere near yet. You're a great salesman and a great teacher 👍😄👍
@@alphanumeric1529 well, that’s a first, being called a salesman for not saying good things about something (not that the chorus here is bad). But judging from the negative tone comments you’ve been leaving recently, there’s more going on. Some salesman btw since the last one was about a synth I told you not to buy.
I think Hydrasynth doesn't need any sequencer, because this is a SYNTH. It's a tool for creating a good sound, but not controlling entire orchestra. Am I wrong ?
I have both (I got the desktop first and started getting FOMO over the ribbon later). They're fun but whoever came up with the power button placement on the desktop should be shot. Great review.
Probably the most used feature I use personally is the randomize patch function. I've already mapped out over 60 keys to the unique sounds I found using this technique
22 pounds-Wow! That is fairly heavy, but holy moly what a machine-some of the patches are quite impressive, and you’ve got to LOVE that ribbon-controller with selectable scales-that is awesome! I noticed that most of the items on your wish-list can be done with firmware updates, so I hope they’re listening! IMHO, the control surface kinda looks like what I imagine it would look like if designed by a 21st century Soviet Union (inside shot of a _’modernized Soyuz capsule’_ comes to mind 🤓). The FX are clearly beyond just functional, esp with use of the side-chaining and mod matrix capabilities, and I love the macro function! I’m heading over to Sweetwater and see if I can pressure them into a good deal! 👍😃
Absolutely shocked about the low price for the level of thought that has gone into this UI (or scavenging from history). I watch these videos, but I'm disabled, I never even check the price, I know I can't afford it. I checked this price and it was 1/3-1/4 of what I thought it would be. Still can't afford it, lol, but I expect people are going to keep these on back order. Oh please, I hope these flop like the Venom or something, so I can get it for a hundo. ;)
@@auntjenifer7774 Got a Moog Grandmother with 4 years of interest free payments. I'm done in a couple months. Crazy world! I wish I wrote the price in my original comment... I can't recall what they sold for originally. Has the price gone up?
Lennart Regebro oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooppoooooooooooooooooooooooooooo Oooh 😲 morning is that a fun way haha 🤣 haha 🤣 morning I gotta this time I have the opportunity of you haha 🤣 I love 💗 I wanna this is
Not going to believe this but that comment was posted via my cat Ichiban. She likes my warm phone playing synth videos all night whilst I try sleeping 😂
Exellent review as usual , and the layout is abviously made by people used to Softsynth , not afraid of being logical instead of TRADITIONNAL ....(don't know if i'm clear here lol) Might go for an explorer even if the controls are less but the desktop pads aren't enougth imho and room is an issue here ..
Interesting synthesizer! I hate to say it as I much respect for Moog but buying ASM + Novation Summit + UDO Super 6 all together will cost less than Moog One!
Please google VCO, DCO (NCO) and FPGA. Then you will understand that the Moog One is a dream for analogue enthusiasts and one of a kind with its features. What i mean in short: ---Summit=FPGA=Processor=Virtual Analogue = (also achievable with...) Pc with good synth emulator programm --- Moog One: VCO, no computer involved for the sound generation, as in the 70s and early 80s by most portable synths. Now i need the 7.7k€ please :)))
There is no need for your explanation my friend. I know what all that means. I have playing on vintage synthesizer for 40 years. Just to name what vintage synths I have Prophet t8 Prophet 600 Memory Moog Minimoog Korg trident mk2 and mk1 Etc. My friend I grew up with them and therefore no need Google that.
@@nadersharif wow that is some collection do you make videos as well. Would love to hear some of these synths. Just getting into it and i am way out of my depth with alot of you on here. Loving it though
The design and layout of this synth are just perfect in my world. I've ordered the keyboard version of the Hydrasynth. Can't wait until they start shipping! I agree with your opinions on the con side and it really would have been cool to be able to choose a unique patch for the ribbon. Let's hope ASM watched this review and got even more inspired for their future firmware releases. Are you going to get a Hydrasynth for yourself? Thanks for a super great review as usual.
Like all your reviews this one is excellent. One minor thing - the button layout and sound path isn't anything new. My Ensoniq ESQ1 from the early 80's has exactly the same functionality, though obviously a lot older. It also has a signal path with associated buttons and when pressed bring up the configuration for that particular function in the centre screen. In many ways the ESQ1 is very similar being a wavetable synth with 3 wave oscillators, 3 DCA albeit going to a single filter with a further DCA to control the final output. Only 3 x LFOs though... Keep up the great work....
Keep an eye on this company - They have Arturias former product manager Glen Darcy on board who worked on all their recent hardware products including all the 'brutes' ( Mini- / Micro- / Matrix- ), Beat- / Keystep and the Microfreak.
Just got my Hydrasynth in the mail. Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuk!!! It sounds good. No video does it justice. I'm blown away and I've only touched the presets but it sounds massive.
Everytime I say no more synth here goes loopop with the ever so convincing reviews 😩. I’m about to block you for a year. You’re horrible for my bank account. Great Review as usual sir.
I've never, and I mean never, have been able to use a synthesizer to make music that I'd want to listen to. That is until I watched your tutorial on the Hydrasynth (module). Finally, I can make music that sounds like something someone would want to hear...ok, who am I kidding, no one wants to hear my music, but I can finally make music that I'd want to hear. ;~) Awesome tutorial Loopop.
With the crazy number of wavetables, plus the mutate and modulation possibilities this thing could end up being the nearest thing to Serum in hardware form.
I am planning to buy a hydrasynth keyboard, and have been looking at available demos. Yours is the clearest and most calorie-rich exposition of this instrument that I have yet encountered. Also, your voice is easy to listen to, which is no small matter.
I’ve had loads of synths in my life but sold every single one of them simply because I’m a classical guitarist who needs to spend my time practicing. However this synth sounds so good that if I just have one synth again it has to be this. I’m a massive fan of blade runner and the intro even though just messing sounds unbelievably ambient and ethereal, just like the CS 80. Wow I’m more than impressed.
I own the desktop, but I love coming back to watch this just to remind me how in-depth this is. 43:45 - They added this feature to a recent update! Now you can directly select the parameter you want to modulate, instead of being limited to just selecting the module, and it's a workflow game changer! ASM are killing it with their updates to the HydraSynth!
7:13 They obviously recess the jacks in back like the jp-8080 because it’s rack mountable. Have you ever tried to rack mount a virus TI series??? Yeah, no thanks! Love the design on both of these new units!
22:11 Amazing. You had 3 different types of noise here, white, pink and brown but maybe there has been an update, because I've seen a demo of the keyboard that had grey, red and violet noise as well, so 6 types at least. I think it was Cuckoo's demo perhaps.
It's really nice, I wonder however if it's worth for most people to have a fully digital synth (with surgical waveforms) in dedicated hardware form today, when you can do most of the same with software synths like Pigments, Alchemy and all of the U-he stuff for a fraction of the cost. I guess this may be a viable alternative if you are a touring musician however, having a dedicated hardware inspire more confidence than running Logic during a concert, isn't it?
Honestly for me i simply get lost in the depth of software instruments, i need knobs and boundries to be creative, or i just get frustrated, i will get this specificaly because it offers a lot of the possibilities of softsynths, without the need to look at a damn screen
Same here. After working with computers for 35 years, I just hate my main interface to an instrument (besides the keyboard) to be a screen/mouse combination. So uninspiring. Plus the complexity of VST modules (where they throw every possible control onto the screen because it’s just code) creates user interfaces that turn music-making into too much of an intellectual exercise.
Undeniably an awesome first synth from ASM,the guy i go to at my local music shop bought one and raves about it, presented and expertly reviewed here, thank you loopop.
It’s hard to describe what it is actually like to create sound and music with one of these. Yes, I obviously own one. The capacity of this synth is nearly endless. You won’t get bored with it or ever have buyers remorse finding something with more for less that’s even better. It just sounds spectacular on headphones too. Beautiful timbres or dirty grindy fx it’s in a well built sturdy case, nice keyboard feel and controls just feel good to work. Buy one you idiot, you don’t need my permission.
Wow! sounds terrific! -- i thoght Medeli went almost bankrupt after the clasch with Yamaha over copying sound from the Yamaha synths! - nice to here of them, and this synth sounds great!
I hear the resemblance for sure. Blofeld has unmatched wavetable quality, IMO. Not surprising - Waldorf has decades of experience with them. Also, it depends how important multitimbrality is to you. It’s highly desirable for me. I would probably still choose Blofeld.
@@aptudo I don't hear any difference for now in regards of quality of wavetables TBH. But Blofeld is not able to morph between a couple of wavatebles. The effects sounds better and the design is way better. It look like it would fit my needs perfectly. They just found my sweet spot :)
Maybe I m wrong but I understood that this is not real wavetables like blofeld ones. There's a lot (219) waveforms packed in here that you can morph between, up to 8 to create a table , but that's not like waldorf tables where you can import your own... I hope they'll open it up for users tables. Blofeld has some interesting features, like modifiers (complex enveloppes creation) but its interface lacks of knobs for sure. Hydrasynth seems way more inspiring, despite its tiny screen! (deepmind 12 has a great use of the lcd screen)
Also considering switching from Blofeld to Hydrasynth. It seems to do almost everything better. The Blofeld has a nice compact size and can do several timbres simultaneously, and I like its comb filter. But I don't need multiple timbres when using a DAW, and the Hydra interface is waaaay better. The main questions for me are whether to switch, and if so, Hydra or Peak. Or maybe just keep the Blofeld and add a really nice monosynth like a Pro 3, to cover the sounds the Blofeld isn't good at. Kinda leaning toward that last option lately, because I like overdriven distorted sounds so much... and even though the Blofeld has like fifteen drive models, none of them are even close to what I want most of the time. I wonder how well the Hydrasynth works for that sort of thing.
@@ToyKeeper I didn't switch yet :). Also considered Peak. From all the sounds on the web I think I like the sounds of Peak most. For me it's too expensive but I I'll try to save some cash for it. I can hear that Peak does also have some good overdriven sounds. Interface is so nice + analog filters + great sounding reverb. If only I had cash to buy it...
It's happening again! All my favorite channels are reviewing the same synth on the same day! edit: Please hook this up to the digitakt/octatrack in a video if time permits. I would love to hear what that synth sounds like with intentional p-locks.
9:00 Those notes look AND sound like 4 little ghosts having a conversation about what they did on the weekend.
LoL it's true
Xcellent 👍 I can’t stop chuckling
well put.
They sounded frightened to me, like they might ‘sheet’ themselves at any moment.
Bahahahaha!!!!!
I have one one. It's astonishing. Sound quality is mind blowing and the build quality is just amazing. 10/10
Loopop has the best hands in the game. Fight me.
Thanks my friend! There's a reason I don't show my face, I could never beat you on hair
Loopthony Popthano here, best hands in the game
@@loopop and my hands just doesn't have that sensitive yet firm look of yours
And more/loads of knowledge
This video is not sponsored by a handcare cream yet
You are such a hero. Thank you, for your in depth reviews and calm soothing presentation.
Partly thanks to your review, I recently picked up the desktop version. An incredibly versatile synthesizer that is so easy and logical to use despite its complexity. Truly remarkable!
@loopop I hope you review the Udo Super 6 when it comes out.
The attention to detail here with the user interface is arresting. They really made it a priority.
Any piece of gear that puts LED rings around their encoders is already a step ahead of the rest in my book.
And TWO headphone jacks out front, with their own level control? A+
My thought exactly - they had me with the knob level rings and OLED labels. Everything else seems superb too.
i also like the little things like having the panic option really close to the home button and near the shift button. small things that count but when notes are stuck, finding the panic button quick is really usefull but there's no need to have it seperate. their solution is really good!
And people don't like slavery...fools
Masterclass of presentation! All essential, all clear, all interesting!!!
I think this is the first time I've seen a new synth that comes in a module version that I kind of would rather the full keyboard. So I'm left kind of wanting both. Cheers to this kind of marketing though(!): Specs, Pics, Vids, Price, no Q's left, no Teasy BS. So, big shout out to ASM for treating us like adults.🤘🏻
3 years after buying the desktop (which is rack mounted in the studio) I picked up the full sized one one the second hand market and it now has pride of place in the studio as well.
The little demo at the beginning was very reminiscent of “Blade Runner Blues”
It's like they've designed the best UI they could come up with, and then a synth for that UI. And that's awesome IMHO.
was thinkin the same, mon ; ) ...and was thinkin on all the times i thought a complaint about no poly aftertouch was just whining. but now i understand! some synths dropping now, like the roland jupiter x, modal, etc.., but this one is sweet.
what i find amazing is that this is the 1st synth from this company - it sounds good - looks good - v good build quality and has this amazing UI - they really did a good job for a first synth...
@@holygeneration7 user interface :)
It’s 12 June 2024, and I just got an Explorer five days ago. When I first had the idea of getting this one, I thought the user interface was counterintuitive. That was a big no-no; it is definitely more intuitive than the other analog emulation synthesizer I have, the microKorg XL. Furthermore, XL only has 128 patches overall. This one has 10 times that money, and half of them are geared for you to create your own patches.
When I am looking at new synths I always search for loopop first and I am never disappointed. 😃👍👍
Amen!
god what i wouldn't give for synths to have a HUD like the ones used in these videos.
This video convinced me to buy one of these and now I'm watching it again to understand it's features!
I have been testing the desktop at a shop here in Berlin for an hour and have found the pads to be unplayable. They are really hard, do not respond at all to tapping. They are not pads but buttons. Therefore velocity response is also terrible. If you play slow, they are fine. Try fast playing, you get lost notes or aching fingers.
Sounds amazing though, and can get really experimental. I was hoping that I could use the desktop model and its pads as an improvisation instrument, but with this level of rigidity, the pads are not really stage friendly. However, the hydrasynth may shine when played with the new Launchpad with its poly aftertouch capable pads
Edit: I ended up buying the Desktop. I still think the pads are bad. They are more of a help for sound programming than a playing surface. The synth is great though.
I would get a keystep pro which has poly after touch AND sequencer which hydrasynth does not have
@@seek4truth AFAIK, the keystep pro doesn't have polyaftertouch. I bought a CME keyboard.
So, if you're such a pad lover then but the keyboard version, obviously. Clearly they have invested so much research on the keybed and ribbon strip, just buy that and enjoy.
@@weplaywax yes you need an adapter for midi, sustain and expression pedals, which I have. I am happy with it but then i am not much of a keyboard player. I use the hydrasynth more for sound design and abstract improvisation . Since my first comment here, I have discovered that most presets are deigned with the keyboard in mind and therefore don’t play well with the pads. With a few tweaks, they responded better (less bad) to pads. And then I deleted almost all presets :)
The desktop one has recessed jacks so that you can rack it without needing a blank panel above it.
Indeed, I mention that in the video
@@loopop Serves me right for commenting before watching the whole thing! Love the videos. Keep up the great work.
But-a small design flaw-the power switch is also recessed. So if not connected to a master power switch, it’s a pain every time you want to turn off/on.
@@alanshewitt thing is,put the switch higher on the back, it gets in the way with rackmount. in the front, u can hit it by accident. So i guess recessed was a good compromise.
other than that, i wouldn't use that switch and just get a power extension box with a switch.
They could possibly add a power on/off feature via menus or holding multiple buttons at once in a firmware update
No joke, today marks the third time I've watched this review. I've ordered a Hydrasynth and just have to wait about a week for it to be delivered, I sure am excited for it.
I'm really grateful for your reviews Loopop as watching them means I have a huge understanding of how to actually use the synth before I even get it. You can bet I'll be watching this again on the day my Hydrasynth arrives, this time with the Hydrasynth sitting on my lap. (desktop version, of course.)
Tell us about it when you get it!
Is it worth getting?
Replaced by the impressive specs of Modwave. Wait for that.
so...one year on, how did it go?
The GAS is strong with this one...
Great demonstration.... I have the deluxe now and boy is it all in one for me!!!!
Seems like the synthesis architecture was more than a little inspired by the Waldorf (micro)Q and the Blofeld :) The extensive oscillator mutation capabilities are a fitting extension.
The pads on the module are great. Since you can choose the scale, I might make fewer mistakes than I do on the keyboard. One of putting thing about modules and desktops is that they are often mute and you have to trigger them from outside, always. So much thought has gone into these designs, it seems.
Finally someone who actually designs things properly. This is so important because the last thing you want is to be distracted with menus and a difficult flow to follow.
Weighing in at ~50 mins, this is an astounding review. I'm not sure my trips to the loo were indicative of the length or how excited I got over this synth! The features, the clarity of the layout and the sheer quality of the sound of it have sold me. This is the one Loopster, this is the divorce. This is not some little Pocket Operator you can just explain away. No. Not at all. I and my divorce attorney thank you for (another) awesome review. ;D
LaughingBubba you made me laugh ;)
I watched your video, realized that this is the polysynth that I've been searching for a while and directly went to a local shop. Returned to home, played a bit and now watching the video again to get some more tips and tricks. Thank you so much for the clean and smooth review!
Finally a direct method to access complex parameters directly in an easy to understand and well organized fashion . This ethos is bulletproof. And it also sounds focused and pointed towards electronic music folk as a synth first. Also the non cluttered interface is gorgeous! And the choice of the desktop version with shift commands or the keyboard version with direct access to all functionality is a great design choice. Peace Christo 👽🎶🐕🛸☮️💀😉🙏✌️
This is what the Nord Lead 3 evolved into in an alternate universe.
I'm thinking ESQ-1 or SQ80
@@saftpackerl Yeah on the money with that quick access to the signal path
Too bad that Clavia decided to dumb down their engines, take many interesting synthesis features away and make their gear appealing to the simpleton live band crowd.
No offense against live keyboarders, they are surely an important demographic and possibly also the most relevant customer group, but the producers, sound designers and musicians loving deep, complex synthesis are left behind and straight up ignored.
The Nord Modular G2 is IMHO still one of the greatest digital synths and at the same time possibly the most interesting concept, but they've simply abandonned it and are not interested in rebooting it ever again. It apparently doesn't fit to their business plan.
However, I've read somewhere that the Nord Modular development almost drove Clavia into bankrupcy, so maybe that's why they are so reluctant from making niche products, which might be too risky from a financial point of view, in contrast to the simple Nord Lead / Wave / Electro / Stage boards for the masses.
Okay, there is Eurorack which is blowing up nowadays, but still, digital modulars have got their justification and can do stuff you can't do on an analog modular (or it's extremely hard and expensive to do), like patch storage, polyphony and expandability without the need for spending tons of cash for new modules and it's a shame that this concept got abandonned. Despite all the interesting new synths coming up these days and the new love for digital hardware, wavetable, FM and other synthesis forms, there is no hardware like the NMG2 around and it's a big shame.
well only with the 3 first minutes I'm in . poly AT, ribbon, compact and great sound! ..... that flowchart with the buttons is very reminiscent of ensoniq esq-1, which I own and love.
It took 30 seconds for me!
JobimMusic yes, reminded me of ESQ1 also. Reckon this could reach into much of the same sonic territory, be interested in hearing the bit-reduction in more depth
Reminded me of the V-Synth :-)
“…abysmal failure to _award-winning patch design_ “ 😂🤣👍😄
Loopop has the best synth review content on youtube right now. Even better than Sonic State as far as how comprehensive it is. Truly though I'll tell you, BoBeats should be embarrassed. What an absolute clickbait tool he is - generating fluff nothing content by comparison.
Charles Whiley come on! He is also doing great work. Don’t watch him if you don’t like but don’t talk bad. Better suffer in silence.
@@trancodingertranscodinger387 His fatal flaw in my view is in thinking I like his personality or that I watch synthesizer videos for some face or personality. I do not. I watch them for quality of content and his are basically fluffy advertisements and not much else.
So glad they didn't try and shove a half baked sequencer in this for no reason
To make lush melodies, chords, and ambient sounds would you recommend the Hydrsynth or a Korg Wavestate? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.
Cobalt 8 is worth looking at.
@@maccagrabme thanks for the feedback. Since, I've heard it. Honestly, the Cobalt 8 creates some of the deepest sounds I've ever heard. I've since purchased a Korg Kronos and Korg Wavestate. I heard about the Cobalt 8 after my purchase and I completely immersed by it's deep pulsating sounds. However, my studio is now too large. I appreciate your feedback.
The macro feature where you can tweak a parameter, without it actually changing the sound until you hit the button, is a feature I've never seen on a synth, but I immediately wish all my synths had it. Such a useful little feature for live performance. I don't know yet if I'm going to buy the Hydrasynth, but if I do, that feature is definitely one of the factors drawing me in.
The Novation peak has this feature.
@@david-read Good to know. The Peak is still on my wishlist, I suppose it might move up a couple of places knowing it has this function.
I just want to know with the change in the MIDI specification, as to whether it is MPE responsive when MIDIed to something like a Linnstrument or a Roli Seaboard Rise.
Dancing O-Scope for poly-after touch was brilliant! Could be a useful training aid for touch training. Great review, as always!
This came out of nowhere - clever marketing by going straight to RUclips reviewers.
I thought Behringer were the only game in town but the Chinese are really onto it too.
You watch - this thing would be a threat to Behringer, but I wouldn’t be surprised if there was some kind of collaboration.
Behringer makes analog, ASM will make Virtual Analog. Plus, Behringer only recently (a few months ago) developed one of the first polyphonic aftertouch keyboards in the last ten years.
My bet, is that Uli is helping out this ‘lone ranger’ ASM Owner who’s departed Arturia to start this company.
You took the comment right out of my mouth!
Yep, all the OEM's and smaller guys are working this powerful way now .... the MODX was 'sold' due to this way of "free" marketing. Ideal for Co.'s now ...
@@theaudioeng except for the companies so small they cant afford to give stuff away free, like Sismo.
Is it not like the child of a Cs80 with PPG wave?
I watched this months ago before I bought the desktop version (you're basically responsible for my buying decision, so thanks!) and was a bit confused about some of the controls. I decided to rewatch this video rather than watching videos of other synths I'm lusting over and so glad I did. Helped me to understand some deeper features I've not been anywhere near yet. You're a great salesman and a great teacher 👍😄👍
thanks - I prefer not to be seen as a salesman since I try to tell things like they are but I'll take teacher any day :)
@@loopop You're a salesman with classic salesman techniques... dwell on the positive, and blow past the negative. Example from this vid: Chorus.
@@alphanumeric1529 well, that’s a first, being called a salesman for not saying good things about something (not that the chorus here is bad). But judging from the negative tone comments you’ve been leaving recently, there’s more going on. Some salesman btw since the last one was about a synth I told you not to buy.
I think Hydrasynth doesn't need any sequencer, because this is a SYNTH. It's a tool for creating a good sound, but not controlling entire orchestra. Am I wrong ?
Nice overview. Oddly, the Hydrasynth reminds me of the esq-1/sq80.
Yes, I thought the same. The way the buttons are laid out to give easy access to the settings. A clever design choice.
I have both (I got the desktop first and started getting FOMO over the ribbon later). They're fun but whoever came up with the power button placement on the desktop should be shot.
Great review.
Every review I've watched so far on this it's there's always been a vangelis vibe in the review. That's a good thing.
1200 dollar ..i still want noation summit..i cant save for every synth that comes out
I fiddled wirth a Summit lately, it does sound fantastic and is fun to operate. I'm pleasantly surprised every time.
Sell a kidney or two!
@@DroneShots_UK You actually only need one. If one of your kidneys happens to fail, more often than not the second also fails.
Probably the most used feature I use personally is the randomize patch function. I've already mapped out over 60 keys to the unique sounds I found using this technique
8:48 Boy peak and girl peak flirting.
Later:
8:58 The peak family arguing about where to go - park or cafe.
What a fantastic demo!
As usual-extremely THOROUGH and useful review! Thanks VERY much-you cover more than anyone else in your reviews!
22 pounds-Wow! That is fairly heavy, but holy moly what a machine-some of the patches are quite impressive, and you’ve got to LOVE that ribbon-controller with selectable scales-that is awesome! I noticed that most of the items on your wish-list can be done with firmware updates, so I hope they’re listening!
IMHO, the control surface kinda looks like what I imagine it would look like if designed by a 21st century Soviet Union (inside shot of a _’modernized Soyuz capsule’_ comes to mind 🤓). The FX are clearly beyond just functional, esp with use of the side-chaining and mod matrix capabilities, and I love the macro function! I’m heading over to Sweetwater and see if I can pressure them into a good deal! 👍😃
Absolutely shocked about the low price for the level of thought that has gone into this UI (or scavenging from history). I watch these videos, but I'm disabled, I never even check the price, I know I can't afford it. I checked this price and it was 1/3-1/4 of what I thought it would be. Still can't afford it, lol, but I expect people are going to keep these on back order. Oh please, I hope these flop like the Venom or something, so I can get it for a hundo. ;)
With the amount hate for synths due to not having analogue warmth I wouldn't be surprised
Zzounds will do payment plans with no credit check.
You can get one !
@@auntjenifer7774 Got a Moog Grandmother with 4 years of interest free payments. I'm done in a couple months. Crazy world! I wish I wrote the price in my original comment... I can't recall what they sold for originally. Has the price gone up?
I need this even though I have very little talent.
I have absolute no use of it whatsoever. I still want it.
Lennart Regebro oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooppoooooooooooooooooooooooooooo Oooh 😲 morning is that a fun way haha 🤣 haha 🤣 morning I gotta this time I have the opportunity of you haha 🤣 I love 💗 I wanna this is
Not going to believe this but that comment was posted via my cat Ichiban. She likes my warm phone playing synth videos all night whilst I try sleeping 😂
@@RussArteaga I choose to believe you.
@@RussArteaga I bet she wants to spy your WhatsApp ;)
LMAO i don't think i have enough fine muscle control to use this synth
Exellent review as usual , and the layout is abviously made by people used to Softsynth , not afraid of being logical instead of TRADITIONNAL ....(don't know if i'm clear here lol)
Might go for an explorer even if the controls are less but the desktop pads aren't enougth imho and room is an issue here ..
10:24 According to the manual, activating Theremin mode does reserve 1 voice, so you are then limited to 7 voices on the keyboard.
This looks terrifyingly brilliant. Finally NOT JUST ANOTHER CLONE.
do the Ribbon and poly aftertouch send midi so you can control other synths?
yes
loopop Manufacturer say anything about supporting MPE controllers? No mention on the product page.
Hi! What is the intro preset and ribbon mode?
Greats!!
Interesting synthesizer!
I hate to say it as I much respect for Moog but buying ASM + Novation Summit + UDO Super 6 all together will cost less than Moog One!
But were they made by hipsters?
Please google VCO, DCO (NCO) and FPGA. Then you will understand that the Moog One is a dream for analogue enthusiasts and one of a kind with its features.
What i mean in short:
---Summit=FPGA=Processor=Virtual Analogue = (also achievable with...) Pc with good synth emulator programm
--- Moog One: VCO, no computer involved for the sound generation, as in the 70s and early 80s by most portable synths.
Now i need the 7.7k€ please :)))
There is no need for your explanation my friend. I know what all that means.
I have playing on vintage synthesizer for 40 years.
Just to name what vintage synths I have
Prophet t8
Prophet 600
Memory Moog
Minimoog
Korg trident mk2 and mk1
Etc.
My friend I grew up with them and therefore no need Google that.
@@nadersharif yes cool and i should have gone to your youtube channel :D
@@nadersharif wow that is some collection do you make videos as well. Would love to hear some of these synths. Just getting into it and i am way out of my depth with alot of you on here. Loving it though
The design and layout of this synth are just perfect in my world. I've ordered the keyboard version of the Hydrasynth. Can't wait until they start shipping! I agree with your opinions on the con side and it really would have been cool to be able to choose a unique patch for the ribbon. Let's hope ASM watched this review and got even more inspired for their future firmware releases. Are you going to get a Hydrasynth for yourself? Thanks for a super great review as usual.
Like all your reviews this one is excellent. One minor thing - the button layout and sound path isn't anything new.
My Ensoniq ESQ1 from the early 80's has exactly the same functionality, though obviously a lot older. It also has a signal path with associated buttons and when pressed bring up the configuration for that particular function in the centre screen. In many ways the ESQ1 is very similar being a wavetable synth with 3 wave oscillators, 3 DCA albeit going to a single filter with a further DCA to control the final output. Only 3 x LFOs though...
Keep up the great work....
PHENOMINAL opening tones, reason alone to purchase it, proof it can sound supernaturally analog.
Awesome piece of kit, I really hope they update the firmware in a way that lets you do exactly what you are describing around 43:47
You know I think I’m going to treat myself to a Hardware synth in 2020... and Hydrasynth is near the top of the list.
bobafruti i was stuck between this or the dsi rev 2. Went with the rev. Waiting for it to show up now 😭
Can you connect a keyboard to the desktop version?
Yeah through the midi in plug in the back
40:49 NIGHT RIDER FTW!!!
I'm a real sucker for a good digital synth - this looks fantastic.
Keep an eye on this company - They have Arturias former product manager Glen Darcy on board who worked on all their recent hardware products including all the 'brutes' ( Mini- / Micro- / Matrix- ), Beat- / Keystep and the Microfreak.
Why did he leave? Just to make his own company?
if it has the same durability of arturia hardware this new company has a future problem
@@cnfuzz He designed the stuff, not the build materials and physicsl components. Arturia went cheap like cheapos.
@@fortheloveofnoise yeah i heard concerning stories about matrixbrute too wich isnt exactly budgetsynth
@@cnfuzz so far i never had any issues with arturia hardware - only software related.
9:15 Epic Video with the Dancing Ghosts
Just got my Hydrasynth in the mail. Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuk!!! It sounds good. No video does it justice. I'm blown away and I've only touched the presets but it sounds massive.
Hail Hydra
Now I see where Nick got his title from 😄
you do amazing reviews .. very detailed !! you like the mkbhd of the synth world !!
It kinda reminds me of a mininova, but way way better UI.
Everytime I say no more synth here goes loopop with the ever so convincing reviews 😩. I’m about to block you for a year. You’re horrible for my bank account. Great Review as usual sir.
Thanks I guess ;) what do I know, I just play a little jam in the beginning and explain what the knobs do
oh my god the mod assignment is so good. like, VST-level easy.
Looks like a Minifreak on steroids.
China really REALLY getting good at creating virtually EVERYTHING in these audio Tools
Ngl probably good at almost all technology things
I've never, and I mean never, have been able to use a synthesizer to make music that I'd want to listen to. That is until I watched your tutorial on the Hydrasynth (module). Finally, I can make music that sounds like something someone would want to hear...ok, who am I kidding, no one wants to hear my music, but I can finally make music that I'd want to hear. ;~) Awesome tutorial Loopop.
My pleasure - thanks for taking the time to write!
With the crazy number of wavetables, plus the mutate and modulation possibilities this thing could end up being the nearest thing to Serum in hardware form.
more like an absynth
@@jacobbrown1690 I'll happily take either.
LOL I was thinking exactly the same!
I am planning to buy a hydrasynth keyboard, and have been looking at available demos. Yours is the clearest and most calorie-rich exposition of this instrument that I have yet encountered. Also, your voice is easy to listen to, which is no small matter.
Great review as always! Can the ribbon controller be used to send MIDI data?
Marco Longo yes it can
Ken Flux Pierce Fluxwithit then I better start saving some money
excellent video. that helps me a lot to choose my new synth. i think i now have found it
40:36 I see the arpeggiator has many modes including Stranger Things and metal.
Those colored pads looks like my Analog Rytm.....
...... with the amazing sequencer. 😇
I’ve had loads of synths in my life but sold every single one of them simply because I’m a classical guitarist who needs to spend my time practicing. However this synth sounds so good that if I just have one synth again it has to be this. I’m a massive fan of blade runner and the intro even though just messing sounds unbelievably ambient and ethereal, just like the CS 80. Wow I’m more than impressed.
Loopop and Sonic State provide best synth reviews hands down!
would love to hear and see some patch design on this.
32 mod slots! Holy f***!!! Looks like I'll be doing a patch bank for this one!
I own the desktop, but I love coming back to watch this just to remind me how in-depth this is.
43:45 - They added this feature to a recent update! Now you can directly select the parameter you want to modulate, instead of being limited to just selecting the module, and it's a workflow game changer! ASM are killing it with their updates to the HydraSynth!
7:13 They obviously recess the jacks in back like the jp-8080 because it’s rack mountable. Have you ever tried to rack mount a virus TI series??? Yeah, no thanks! Love the design on both of these new units!
It's like somebody built Surge as a hardware synth, and I mean that as the absolute highest praise. This looks so cool.
I said Europa Synth lol
It is like a Vst in a box
22:11 Amazing. You had 3 different types of noise here, white, pink and brown but maybe there has been an update, because I've seen a demo of the keyboard that had grey, red and violet noise as well, so 6 types at least. I think it was Cuckoo's demo perhaps.
Reminds me a bit of the ensoniq Sq 80
Martin Schiller I thought the same. Hope someday also Ensoniq team come back again making new stuff.
Gorgeous played introduction and the usual calm and considered explanatory demonstration - thank you…
It's really nice, I wonder however if it's worth for most people to have a fully digital synth (with surgical waveforms) in dedicated hardware form today, when you can do most of the same with software synths like Pigments, Alchemy and all of the U-he stuff for a fraction of the cost. I guess this may be a viable alternative if you are a touring musician however, having a dedicated hardware inspire more confidence than running Logic during a concert, isn't it?
Honestly for me i simply get lost in the depth of software instruments, i need knobs and boundries to be creative, or i just get frustrated, i will get this specificaly because it offers a lot of the possibilities of softsynths, without the need to look at a damn screen
Same here. After working with computers for 35 years, I just hate my main interface to an instrument (besides the keyboard) to be a screen/mouse combination. So uninspiring. Plus the complexity of VST modules (where they throw every possible control onto the screen because it’s just code) creates user interfaces that turn music-making into too much of an intellectual exercise.
Undeniably an awesome first synth from ASM,the guy i go to at my local music shop bought one and raves about it, presented and expertly reviewed here, thank you loopop.
It’s hard to describe what it is actually like to create sound and music with one of these. Yes, I obviously own one. The capacity of this synth is nearly endless. You won’t get bored with it or ever have buyers remorse finding something with more for less that’s even better.
It just sounds spectacular on headphones too.
Beautiful timbres or dirty grindy fx it’s in a well built sturdy case, nice keyboard feel and controls just feel good to work.
Buy one you idiot, you don’t need my permission.
Don't buy the damn thing funding the CCP
Wow! sounds terrific! -- i thoght Medeli went almost bankrupt after the clasch with Yamaha over copying sound from the Yamaha synths! - nice to here of them, and this synth sounds great!
this synth has everything except a price I can afford. :(
I hear you man. But just make payments.
Affirm
@@mpmi7588 thank you internet person for fuelling my crippling GAS :)
@@memsus2346 lol
@@iSapien1956672 Too much interest.
I just unboxed mine. OMFG. This thing sounds amazing.
goodbye blofeld. I'll miss you...
I hear the resemblance for sure. Blofeld has unmatched wavetable quality, IMO. Not surprising - Waldorf has decades of experience with them. Also, it depends how important multitimbrality is to you. It’s highly desirable for me. I would probably still choose Blofeld.
@@aptudo I don't hear any difference for now in regards of quality of wavetables TBH.
But Blofeld is not able to morph between a couple of wavatebles.
The effects sounds better and the design is way better. It look like it would fit my needs perfectly. They just found my sweet spot :)
Maybe I m wrong but I understood that this is not real wavetables like blofeld ones. There's a lot (219) waveforms packed in here that you can morph between, up to 8 to create a table , but that's not like waldorf tables where you can import your own... I hope they'll open it up for users tables.
Blofeld has some interesting features, like modifiers (complex enveloppes creation) but its interface lacks of knobs for sure. Hydrasynth seems way more inspiring, despite its tiny screen! (deepmind 12 has a great use of the lcd screen)
Also considering switching from Blofeld to Hydrasynth. It seems to do almost everything better. The Blofeld has a nice compact size and can do several timbres simultaneously, and I like its comb filter. But I don't need multiple timbres when using a DAW, and the Hydra interface is waaaay better.
The main questions for me are whether to switch, and if so, Hydra or Peak. Or maybe just keep the Blofeld and add a really nice monosynth like a Pro 3, to cover the sounds the Blofeld isn't good at.
Kinda leaning toward that last option lately, because I like overdriven distorted sounds so much... and even though the Blofeld has like fifteen drive models, none of them are even close to what I want most of the time. I wonder how well the Hydrasynth works for that sort of thing.
@@ToyKeeper I didn't switch yet :). Also considered Peak. From all the sounds on the web I think I like the sounds of Peak most. For me it's too expensive but I I'll try to save some cash for it.
I can hear that Peak does also have some good overdriven sounds. Interface is so nice + analog filters + great sounding reverb. If only I had cash to buy it...
This makes me want to sell my analogs. Deja vu :-)
It's happening again! All my favorite channels are reviewing the same synth on the same day!
edit: Please hook this up to the digitakt/octatrack in a video if time permits. I would love to hear what that synth sounds like with intentional p-locks.
That's an awesome synth! Can someone please buy me one? Please. Ha ha.