Watch this BEFORE buying SUBHARMONICON: 2 month user review

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  • Опубликовано: 4 июл 2024
  • I tell you my experience so far after using the Moog Subharmonicon for about two months in the studio for music creation. Beautiful sounding and equally frustrating synth we got here...
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Комментарии • 315

  • @KenMiddletonUkulele
    @KenMiddletonUkulele 3 года назад +124

    You said that the thing that drove you crazy was the fact that when you switched it off and on again you lose the fantastic patch that you had previously created. I believe that the reason for this lies with the reset button. It is very easy to creates sequence 2 and forget to synchronise it to sequence 1. For the patch to play back the same every time the two sequences both have to start at beat one, at the same time. When you switch off then on again the sequences automatically reset. This may not be the same as the patch you had before. I have tested it. Sequence 1 will remain exactly the same. So will sequence 2. It is just a matter of how they are initially synchronised. Hope this helps and makes sense.
    Aa

    • @mcbefey
      @mcbefey 3 года назад +10

      This is exactly what I thought was happening when he described it. I don't have one, but is there a way to shift one of the sequences to try to find the beat one you had before? It seems like you'd only have to shift one of the sequences through the four steps and one of the steps would sound right.

    • @0VRLNDR
      @0VRLNDR 3 года назад +16

      Came here to make this reply. I run the IG account @moogsubharmoniconpatches and it's the #1 question I get in DMs. I understand why it's misunderstood, but this is just the nature of starting each of sequencer at different times-which undoubtedly happens while tinkering around-vs. Reset. Timing of your mathematical divisions is different from before you unplugged it.

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад +22

      Thank you so much for sharing this👍🏼

    • @bystander85
      @bystander85 3 года назад +5

      So the workaround to this to prevent losing your patch?

    • @0VRLNDR
      @0VRLNDR 3 года назад +19

      @@bystander85 record. :P
      If you want maximum repeatability, hit Reset after programming your patch and don’t modify rhythm pots while playing it. If you want to play the rhythm pots and send oscillators to multiple rhythms AND want 100% repeatability, it’s like any other complex instrument: practice. You can aid your memory by recording not just the audio but *video* while playing as well. This is good advise for any synth that does not save and recall patches.

  • @ManCalledMif
    @ManCalledMif 3 года назад +61

    It's great that you highlighted the frustration that can result from the SH's learning curve. The subharmonicon is an unconventional instrument but as someone who struggles with playing conventional keyboards, the Subharmonicon is a great way to make sounds you wouldn't have been able to make in any other way. Experimentation is rewarded. Also, SH is great for creating despite writer's block. It's a very 2020 lockdown-friendly device for those with the luxury of time and also integrates really well with Mother-32, DFAM, Werkstatt-01 and the trigger out of drum machines. I'm very happy to own one.

    • @NateHorn
      @NateHorn 3 года назад +6

      Same. If you want to be able to 'play' it like a keyboard then you will, as is seen in this video, become frustrated. But that's not how you use the SubH. I don't really understand the learning curve argument either - again I think that this is misunderstanding the 'happy accident' relationship you form with the SubH - it requires absolutely no learning at all. When you get to know the SubH you'll learn how to tame it - you don't need to know that twisting X knob reduces a division by 1/16 - you don't need to be doing any maths. Twist some knobs, eventually you'll get something amazing you'd have never thought of. Tune your other gear to the Sub and away you go. Trying to use it like a normal synth by playing the oscillators via MIDI is totally missing the point.

    • @toomuchcables3154
      @toomuchcables3154 Год назад

      Interesting approach!

  • @MrMusicbyMartin
    @MrMusicbyMartin 3 года назад +15

    I’ve had a SH for about 4 months now, and as I understand it better, it’s easier to find the sweetspots. I use an oscilloscope to tune it, and it really helps to have the visual feedback. It helps to understand intervals, intuit the relationship between the dials and the frequencies. If you are aiming for harmonic sounds, there are only a few intervals that will actually work together - f/3, f/5 etc. I actually did a lot of research into harmonics, frequencies, scales etc and this was daunting but worth it.
    I have two Subharmonicons (subharmonica?) which compounds the tuning. For percussive sounds 2 SHs work really well, and I agree that CV is a much better way to align them than MIDI.
    We have to accept the value of analogue gear, and give up the idea of presets - use a DAW or digital synth if reproducing with fidelity is your aim.
    I have an Octatrack too, and took a couple of weeks working through the manual, and I didn’t feel the steep learning curve. You can learn the SH by playing around with it, but the Octatrack requires a bit more deliberate study. The Moog SH manual is beautifully presented, but I think it’s lacking some detail. Some clear examples (if your main oscillator is set to C, this is how to tune the sub oscillator to G and Bb) would have helped - perhaps I will create a video on my channel which looks at consonance vs dissonance.

  • @seanspartan2023
    @seanspartan2023 3 года назад +23

    I love my Subharmonicon now but I had buyer's remorse the first 2 weeks after I bought it. It does require patience and a lot of effort, but in the end I think it's worth it. No other synth I own sounds like it.

    • @MattWhitehead80
      @MattWhitehead80 3 года назад

      I sold mine on after a month. I couldn’t get along with it. I would agree that it sounds like no other synth I’ve ever owned.

  • @venturarealestate9918
    @venturarealestate9918 3 года назад +2

    Thanks for the video! That was what I was looking for! I'm new to synths and this product looks intriguing, but complicated! You saved me some money and frustration! Thanks for that!

  • @sophoclese65
    @sophoclese65 3 года назад

    Thanks for this perspective. You touched on several points that were niggling in the back of my head after seeing other demo vids. You confirmed my fears and but also deepened my curiosity. If I do get this I now have much more realistic expectations. Thanks!

  • @xor5352
    @xor5352 3 года назад +10

    That Battle Toads reference was too real.

    • @infn8loopmusic
      @infn8loopmusic 3 месяца назад

      I am ready for this battletoads synth. It's perfect. I think this will add a bunch of value to my softpop2 and Korg Ms-20 even if it takes me a year to get a handle on it.

  • @agerven
    @agerven 2 года назад +5

    i was about to give some comment on the issues you displayed, but fortunately read through the existing comments first. They explain and solve the issues far better and simpler than i could ever have done.
    Now that is what i especially like about your channel and your presentation: you directly speak the language and feelings of brothers and sisters that are also learning and sometimes struggeling with their instruments. And this little community is forming in which solutions and interhelp is bursting out from the comments.
    Great stuff!

  • @Jin-Hu
    @Jin-Hu 3 года назад +3

    Fantastic, I needed this level of honesty, maybe I’ll go harmonic on in a few years

  • @AndrewColyerMusic
    @AndrewColyerMusic 2 года назад +1

    Hey man, this was a great video. Thank you so much for taking the time to make it, and give us all of the pros and cons before investing in this awesome Moog synth! 😀

  • @Paul-bm2jy
    @Paul-bm2jy 3 года назад +2

    Great video, thanks, watched it several times and decided to get one! Your video intrigued me, and I wanted the challenge of this beast!

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад

      Thank you so much my friend! I hope you have amazing sonic adventures with that wild little bad boy! Happy music making and keep us posted!

  • @longtall2010
    @longtall2010 2 года назад +5

    I have a Matriarch and a Subsequent 25 and started drooling over the Subharmonicon. Some wizards did a great review on it and it looked...easy. I was too proud to mindlessly follow the advice from The Midlife Synthesist (being in midlife myself) and watched just one more video--TIm Shoebridge. Tim is no slouch and his video diary with this unit ran TEN DAYS. If it took 10 days for Tim and Midlife says 'Don't Do It' I'm finally listening. Loopop gave a great workaround using Plaits and that's where I'm staying. With much respect for your fair and unbiased opinions, I thank you.

  • @rafaelg2241
    @rafaelg2241 3 года назад +3

    Thank you for a honest review. I have one of these beast, but not yet enough time to dive into it. so I have now a bit of warning to start with. It would be very welcome to see more videos about it.

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад

      Thank you for watching! I’m actually working on a tutorial/trouble shooting video for new subharmonicon users to release soon, so stay tuned! Cheers!

  • @EchoKraft
    @EchoKraft 3 года назад +3

    I am so glad that you made this review.
    It’s nice to see somebody being honest and open about a synthesizer that I was interested in and now I’m not.
    I have a large array of synthesizers in my studio and I also have a lot of them put away inside of a closet.
    So I know the frustration that there is that goes behind learning a synthesizer.
    But I also know the pleasure that you get once you learn how to use and master your instrument. Although mastering can take many many years and sometimes you never get a chance to master any instrument but just enjoy playing it.

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад +1

      Thank you so much👍🏼 I feel very much the same way, and I kind of feel guilty cause I feel I am using these things at like 15% their real capacity 😅 have an awesome day and I hope to hear from you again!

  • @PeterBogolub
    @PeterBogolub Год назад

    Thanks for an awesome review! Very well done :)

  • @infn8loopmusic
    @infn8loopmusic 3 месяца назад

    Awesome video! Very helpful! Greatly appreciated

  • @sxipshirey
    @sxipshirey 3 года назад +1

    Thank you! I needed to know this.

  • @scottm8685
    @scottm8685 3 года назад +1

    Great video, very informative.

  • @rodrigolaporte274
    @rodrigolaporte274 3 года назад +1

    What a great video, I really wanted an opinion like yours, after some use, besides the reviews of the synth we've all seen

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад +1

      Thank you so much for this comment! I really appreciate it

  • @matteomarasco8655
    @matteomarasco8655 3 года назад +1

    I'm a jazz student and noob synthesist looking to know as much possible about synths before pulling the trigger and get my first baby, your channel is teaching me soooooo much about this wonderful world. Keep it up, love from italy

  • @x0d-live
    @x0d-live Год назад

    Love this machine. The challenge and discovery process is much more fun, surprising, and rewarding than some of the other "tough eggs" I've tried to crack.

  • @kiickinballistics
    @kiickinballistics 2 года назад

    Great review.

  • @john678
    @john678 3 года назад +1

    Thank you for sharing my frustration. I struggle with it but love it and some days it sit’s unused because it’s too much to deal with. Mine will stay since I do have the time but yes....it drives you crazy 😎 Great video

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад +1

      Thank you so much bro! I’m glad it found a good home in your hands🤟🏻

  • @nikitachepurnoi9835
    @nikitachepurnoi9835 10 месяцев назад +1

    thank you so much, man; really appreciate your honesty🙏

  • @theronpro_
    @theronpro_ 2 года назад +3

    I just got a SH and love it! It did the sample patches from the included overlays and was up and running by the third use. The key with it is understanding that total CW VCO & rhythm knobs is 1:1 and CCW is 1:1/16. This is a great exploration synth - not recommended as one's first synth. Using the 6 VCOs either independently or in tandem internally or externally is great. The external patching brings another dimension to this thing - both controlling other modules and having other modules controlling the SH. Not a huge fan of using the included Sequencers without a Data Mordax, but using 1v/oct from eternal source on VCO1&2 works great. Another thing to keep in mind - if using with external modules - the SEQ OCT (+- 5, +-2, +-1) is different that most external Eurorack modules (0-10v) - so keep an attenuator handy (both in and out of SH). Definitely recommend buying a SH!

  • @beast-muzik
    @beast-muzik 9 дней назад

    I was so excited to get this and so disappointed that i couldnt get it to go. THANK YOU for calling out that it sounds different every time. Thought I was going crazy!

  • @stevep6428
    @stevep6428 3 года назад

    Anddddd that settles it. Ill do the dfam and mother combo. A solid honest review. Great job

  • @deltagolf2219
    @deltagolf2219 3 года назад +1

    hi i am an evening beginner and have ordered my Mother 32 which will arrive today with the mail i also wanted to order the Sub hamonic and saw this video of you i am very happy that you give such a clear description that i will wait until i have some am more experienced with analog synth so great that you are so clear thanks a lot

  • @AesculapiusPiranha
    @AesculapiusPiranha 3 года назад +16

    And now you must recreate the Battletoads motorcycle level music on it

  • @BubbaSatori
    @BubbaSatori 3 года назад

    Thanks for the warning about the learning curve. Saved me a bunch of money.

    • @TheTom7878
      @TheTom7878 3 года назад

      What’s wrong with learning?

  • @Hesohi
    @Hesohi 3 года назад +1

    I have both the SubHarmonicon and the Octatrack. Agree on both. Love both. I also have a DFAM, using the sub harmonicon’s VCO outputs into the DFAM ext audio in. Seems to make it easier to manage. Also just tuning the Main OSC to C. The Midi seems like an afterthought. I love the SubHarmonicon it really added to my creative flow. Of course it is used mainly as a super 303 and sounds great with all my other gear. It’s my first semi modular piece. Good concise video. Subscribed.

  • @tridave294
    @tridave294 Год назад +1

    Love ur honest n straight and short meaning words

  • @NicolasMelis
    @NicolasMelis 3 года назад +1

    thanks for that, great video!

  • @giovannigrossetti7352
    @giovannigrossetti7352 Год назад +1

    Hi, many thanks for this very entertaining overview on the subharmonicon. I am actually getting into synth and I am very attracted by the Moog semimodulars. Following your videos I should opt for the Grandmother. Although sooner or later I’ll probably get the Moog studio as well… 😂 Anyway, all the best for the future, stay safe! Cheers from Germany.

  • @gjanalog5675
    @gjanalog5675 3 года назад

    Good stuff MS.👍🏼

  • @xii226a
    @xii226a 2 года назад

    I would appreciate more audio samples of the things you were describing as well. Thanks for the great video! ATB!

  • @tonyhill2318
    @tonyhill2318 2 года назад +1

    Very well done review.👍

  • @stayquiet4582
    @stayquiet4582 3 года назад +3

    DIVORCED ENDUCING. Thank you for providing my new favorite adjective

  • @leonmccormick2909
    @leonmccormick2909 3 года назад +3

    Man I just watched another video with you on the Keystep 37. I've got to say that you are the coolest that I've seen and heard. You seem to be so trustworthy and on the ball. So needless to say after watching this video I had to subscribe to your channel. Thanks again and I'll be watching you later. Be cool!!

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад +1

      Dude! YOU are the coolest! Thank you so much for such kind words, I truly appreciate every one of them! I’ll always try to keep making content you enjoy as much as I enjoy making, and hopefully, it’ll be a long and bumpy ride. Lots of love!

  • @mpeckmusic
    @mpeckmusic 2 года назад +1

    Great video, and input. I’ve been reluctant to pull the trigger on this beast for the same reasons you mentioned, mainly my lack of patience. Don’t get me wrong, I love to explore, but not willing to spend and hour on a four step sequence.

  • @tom-541
    @tom-541 3 года назад +4

    I really enjoy the perspective you offer to music and music gear - I'm such a culprit when it comes to falling for G.A.S and I enjoy your balanced approach. Quite often I get caught up in the influencer end-of-embargo rush of videos about a new piece of gear - which, of course, no one talks about or uses six months later.

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад +2

      Thank you so much! If it helps, I suffer the exact same thing lol! Thank you for your kind words, have an awesome day!

  • @paulluna8099
    @paulluna8099 3 года назад +1

    This was pretty easy to use. I have had fun with it.

  • @bassporn
    @bassporn 3 года назад +1

    Loved it!!!... Thanks!!!...

  • @Tiger.Arcade
    @Tiger.Arcade 2 года назад +1

    Thank you for this

  • @gridus5380
    @gridus5380 2 года назад +4

    The thing about the Moog Subharmonicon unlike any other synth, its just like a love affair, you stare at it for a while, finally do something, and its strange, yet beautiful. Wouldn't swap it for the world, a truly unique bit of kit

    • @VRUNO
      @VRUNO 2 года назад +1

      this is so true!
      I bought the DFAM, then I ask for the SH + DF and now Im returning them to get the 3 of them and just record everything, with no need of caring that the sound is gone... :))

  • @LlewynDaviesTheThird
    @LlewynDaviesTheThird 3 года назад +1

    Really helpful thanks

  • @croz2803
    @croz2803 3 года назад

    I just discovered you this after i saw someone local selling a subharmonicon at a "ohh, this could be a fun impulse buy" price. You have told me exactly what i needed to know and saved me many hours of frustration, thank you. I get frustrated when my BooG D doesnt make noise so i shall pass on this. Thank you for a review of what i actually needed to hear.

  • @luciano.armani
    @luciano.armani 3 года назад +1

    ah man, thanks for this video. love the sound that comes out of this thing but the problems you mention make it unusable for me. what synth would you recommend that has a similar sound quality but at the same time they are very easyto get into a sweet spot with?.

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад

      Hello my friend! Sorry for the delayed response. To be honest, even though you might probably get a very similar "sound" by sequencing and multitracking a mother 32 or a few werkstatts working together, the truth is that the magic of the subharmonicon is in the weird notes and chords that arise when you are tweaking and exploring. It really is a very cool machine to get lost in. But like a said in my review, it takes (for me) way to long to get there. But going back to your question, the sound it very much the "Moog" sound, so I'd look into one of their synths. If you want a sweet spot machine, the Grandmother is pure honey and has the modular taste to it. Hope that helps!

  • @atom-ark
    @atom-ark 3 года назад +1

    Thanks for being the every man synthesist! I rarely buy a piece of gear these days without looking at Loopop, BoBeats, sonicstate and then YOU. Your perspectives are astute and based in real-life example. You're a welcome additional to a handful of gentlemen on here that show us this new gear and you in particular, bring a very practical, down to earth, yet artistic and somewhat philosophical approach.

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад +2

      Thank you so much for that! I am truly humbled and honored by your kind and generous words. You really made my day my friend, hope to hear from you soon! Cheers🤟🏻

    • @atom-ark
      @atom-ark 3 года назад +1

      @@MidlifeSynthesist It's all you my friend! Wishing you health and success!

  • @PolskiAmbient
    @PolskiAmbient 2 года назад

    Cool vid. !

  • @Noname-1_11_1
    @Noname-1_11_1 3 года назад +1

    Thank you so much!!!!

  • @78thandSynth
    @78thandSynth 2 года назад

    You’ve got my attention. Ships as part of sound studio 3 this week. (I have never used a synth. Buying to learn and add sound scapes to home studio.)

  • @gapster77
    @gapster77 2 года назад

    Great vid.
    I want the trio, and was wondering which to pick up first …think I’ll get this one last 😬

  • @mougabo
    @mougabo 3 года назад +1

    i am so glad to be one of your subs....... thanks

  • @zpinkLondonBelow
    @zpinkLondonBelow 3 года назад +2

    Thanks for a very informative video!
    I may still end up getting one when I've moved to a bigger cave, but the Hydrasynth gained yet a bigger lead now! ;-)

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад +1

      Thank you so much for watching! The Hydrasynth looks VERY interesting. Even heard a few seasoned synthesists saying it was everything they wanted in that type of synth. The thing is, no one can do what the Subharmonicon does, but I think the question (and the point of my video) is, “do I really want/need that thing that it does so well?”. If it’s your flavour, go for it. Anyway, thank you so much for stopping by and dropping me a line, cheers!

    • @zpinkLondonBelow
      @zpinkLondonBelow 3 года назад +1

      @@MidlifeSynthesist Yeah, the Hydrasynth DO tick all the boxes for me including adding to my humble patchable setup with its cv outputs. Will have to wait a few (?) months whilst we move house though. :-(

  • @IanWaugh
    @IanWaugh 3 года назад +2

    Great to get a long-time user's perspective. All the YT reviews I've seen are positive. I like Tim Shoebridge's review which is also positive but also the most critical :-) I bought one but everything seemed like a one-bar pattern. Just me? I dunno. Ultimately not impressed enough to keep it but great to see Moog trying something new and that some people are enjoying it.

  • @DomNom69
    @DomNom69 3 года назад +4

    this channel is dope

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад

      Thank you!! I really appreciate it, hope to see you around again👍🏼

  • @christophercarter1912
    @christophercarter1912 3 года назад +2

    Thanks for this. The others reviews come from a place of expert than novice. This is on my list, and the things you discussed is probably the things that I will bang my head against.

  • @lundsweden
    @lundsweden 2 года назад +2

    In my experience the two synths that had the biggest sweet spots are the Roland Juno 106 and Moog Minimoog. Its hard to make a bad sound with these regardless of settings, and probably explains their popularity and massive influence on other synths.

  • @Taka_Takata
    @Taka_Takata Год назад +2

    Thanks so much for mentioning 📢THE TIME FACTOR. You are the voice of reason, and you rightfully crushed my GAS for the Subharmonicon. I still have plenty to explore in my other synths. I subscribed and will keep your channel in my top list. 🍺

  • @seansley
    @seansley 2 года назад

    Thanks for the insight. Helped talk me out of the purchase any time soon. Unsure it's what I'm looking for - a mix of better control and the endless soundscapes would be a good step up - perhaps in a firmware update?

  • @INDAmedia
    @INDAmedia 2 года назад +1

    Now I want one even more :)

  • @kombinieren
    @kombinieren 2 года назад

    Thanks. Lots of valuable insight into analogue synths in general. I'm trying to pick me something simple to learn and play. Definitely not getting me a SH, but Mother-32 looks attractive precisely because of what SH _lacks_. Cheers! Subscribed.

  • @Oooo-bi7bi
    @Oooo-bi7bi 2 года назад

    Really appreciate honest unbiased reviews. I realised my Korg Volca was not what I needed really. So following RUclips reviews I went for a novation circuit tracks. Bit of an expensive mistake. I should have just bought a synth. The tracks isn’t worth selling on for the money they fetch. So going to save and by the micro freak. For someone who knows little about electronic instruments and whose friends that are musicians are acoustic. It’s difficult and expensive trying to get the machine I need. Wish I’d found your channel a few years ago. 🇬🇧

  • @Mafyoutube
    @Mafyoutube Год назад

    Thank you for your useful explanation. I wanted to know if it has the problem you mentioned after about 2 years? Or is the problem fixed?
    Thank you agarin

  • @TayTayMakesBeats
    @TayTayMakesBeats 3 года назад +1

    Nice channel my guy, subbed. I've been loving my Subharmonicon as my first and only synth but it is pretty frustrating sometimes. My biggest issue is a firmware problem that apparently is on all of them. The sequence clock outs' pulses are slightly delayed, as in they send pulses after the note has already played, likely on the falling edge of the clock. It doesn't matter now since I don't have any other modules to trigger other than maths (which makes the Subharmonicon infinitely more useful) but I'd like to see a firmware update soon.

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад

      Hi bro! Thanks for your comment and also for believing in the channel! See you again soon, cheers!

  • @jeffryarchambeau5441
    @jeffryarchambeau5441 Месяц назад +1

    Over 48k subscribers now, 3k then. And still worth re-watching.

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  Месяц назад

      Thanks so much! It’s been a long road, hope to keep going a little while longer🤘🏻

  • @r3dstar77
    @r3dstar77 3 года назад +1

    You make valid points for sure. Its a strange synth and it is a wild animal. You are right, there is a lot of trudging thru the trenches before you see the light. And it is glorious when you get a great thing going with it. I don't feel its just a soundscape or generative only box tho. Ever since I have bought it, it seems to find a way into almost all of my tracks on my channel. Sometimes in ways I didn't expect which added life to a jam. I do feel like it would be daunting to have this as my first synth tho, you are right about that. And the first week I had it, I thought I had made a big mistake. But now, I don't know if I would sell it. Thanks for the video, good job. Cheers.

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад

      Thank you so much! It really is a unique beast this little Subharmonicon🤟🏻 happy music making!

  • @MattWhitehead80
    @MattWhitehead80 3 года назад +8

    I owned one of these for a month. This review is spot on. It can sound uniquely beautiful, but it’s too much hard work getting there. Not for me

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад +3

      Hi dude! Thanks for watching and sharing. I’m just relieved it wasn’t just me😅 the SH certainly looks innocent on the surface, but you are totally right, it can be very hard work and considerable frustration to get it to work in the traditional sense. See you around!✌🏻

  • @Dikkker
    @Dikkker 3 года назад +4

    Thanks for sharing this. Even though I fool around with hardware synths for a decade now, I still consider myself a newbie and I often think, I'm the error if something doesn't work as I think it should. Just letting go the "I want to have it like this" and welcoming "let's see what happens" made this machine a lot more enjoyable to me …

  • @jpascoglenny
    @jpascoglenny 3 года назад +1

    Great Video! Please can you confirm that there’s no way to use the filter with external sounds! Im almost ready to let my SH go 😞

    • @armand2493
      @armand2493 3 года назад +2

      There is no audio in. CUTOFF input is for controling cutoff frequency. On DFAM EXT AUDIO is an input for audio.

  • @bam6394
    @bam6394 3 года назад +2

    One easy way I have found to get the melody, harmony and rhythm working well is to whack the tempo up and tune it at high speed. Nobody mentions this but it works a treat

  • @85ringostar
    @85ringostar 11 месяцев назад

    Amazing explanation.
    I Liked how you explained it is not wise to be a 1st synth purchase.
    Once the user becomes more experienced with synths then this is a good extra addition and requires one to record the sequences to use in live performance.
    I love how it sounds but I would not get it straight away. It's going to be an addition down the line of my journey

  • @lawr.h
    @lawr.h 3 года назад +7

    I still really want one... My takeaway is it's a "happy accident machine" that is better for inspiring new ideas (and different ones than I'd come up with on a traditional instrument) than for adding to existing ones... Does that sound right to you?

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад +2

      That’s it in a nutshell for me👍🏼 great to get out of a rut and get you started on making music “outside of the box”, but a pain to add to a pre existing more traditional arrangement. Trying to get your sequences to “correctly” change notes and keep the harmony together from verse to chorus to bridge is a whole other story😤 If you have the time and patience for it though, it does make some amazing and unexpected harmonies and melodies and it does take you to unexplored musical territory. Thanks for watching my friend!

  • @barnabycross
    @barnabycross 3 года назад +3

    I'd also add that as an abstract elecrtonic composer...other peoples mud may well be gold for me and vice versa! Atonal staggered ployrhythms that make no 'sense', extreme and abrasive noise, feedback etc..all beautiful in their own way!

  • @tendingtropic7778
    @tendingtropic7778 2 года назад

    thank you! 2 questions: where is your setup video on this (the one you mention in the video) and 2nd: did you keep it?

  • @hanspieringer
    @hanspieringer 3 года назад +2

    I have a Matriarch and I just pluged into midi connection of sub harmonicon with a dumb patch into the clock.
    This works great as a complementary VCO and sub VCO (6 VCO and 4 sub VCO and 3 filters) is crazy!

  •  3 года назад +1

    Thanks or your video. It really looked from other youtube videos that it usually sounds very good. I'm hesitant a little now. My favorite gear is also the Octatrack, so the assumption that I would learn over time is here. Another fact is that I most often play improvised experimental techno, so it could probably work as well.

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад

      Awesome! I really believe the subharmonicon is a great instrument for the right person, unfortunately it’s not for everyone, so I’m happy this helped! Happy beatmaking my friend!

  • @stellaterra414
    @stellaterra414 3 года назад +3

    After a number of aggravating nights, to help with recreating the same sound, I document the number of note steps as I turn the dials of the sequencers and oscillators. Would be nice to have a little readout that shows the number of steps!

  • @randommuiscchannel1049
    @randommuiscchannel1049 3 года назад +1

    Yep. thanks for this. I have 5 hardware synths. . 2 DFAms, Minitaur, Model D and Sub37-- I want to use to create loops and mix in DP10

  • @InvertedPopesMusic
    @InvertedPopesMusic 3 года назад +1

    Hey just came across your channel. I am a long time Moog owner and fan and I really enjoyed this video. The SubH is an incredible instrument and I believe will be one of their classics in years to come. But as you point out it really can be frustrating to use. Now I know this is not very green, but my way around the tuning issues etc is to not turn it off. That is why I have not turned mine off for months and months now. Still a great instrument in my books and can be wonderful for experimentation. But I am finding limits to it.

  • @holgerrumke6244
    @holgerrumke6244 3 года назад

    Ok, these are (>>more

  • @walrtbstudios5430
    @walrtbstudios5430 3 года назад

    Thanks for your honesty. The Subharmonicon has been at the top of my wishlist for a while- although I find myself buying other, cheaper gear before getting round to it- and it’s still something I would like to use, at some point. However, working full-time and squeezing in synth sessions when I can, I like to get results- replicable results- where possible. The midi keyboard thing wouldn’t bother me as I’d be happy inputting cv and gate from (say) the SQ-64, but I hadn’t appreciated just how much work has to be put into it, even by as seasoned an expert as you.
    Perhaps this is one for when I retire (three years and counting)... Now- where did I see that DFAM?

  • @diyonisos4133
    @diyonisos4133 3 года назад +3

    So true about midi, I have such a love hate relationship with this synth.

  • @mk1st
    @mk1st 3 года назад +2

    I'm glad I'm not the only one.

  • @cooltigermusic
    @cooltigermusic 3 года назад

    Don't you feel the same thing about the DFAM? I love the DFAM to record jams but I could not use it live, I just find it impossible to predict the sound which will come out when I turn the knobs.

  • @psymbaparsapu
    @psymbaparsapu 3 года назад

    Thank you so much for this review! It's amazing how you put it from an informative user perspective which was also funny at times and entertaining.
    Switching of the SH and switching it back on to a whole different sequence is definitely frustrating. Do you think this will happen with the Moog DFAM as well? It would be great if you can shed some light on it as I am planning to buy one. Cheers!

    • @kimsnarf
      @kimsnarf 3 года назад

      A single DFAM will not have this issue. However, if you use multiple of them, or combine one with e.g a Mother-32, you might need to manually set their sync positions in relation to each other again after powering off. Since the sequencers can be at different positions in your pattern. It is not a big issue.

    • @psymbaparsapu
      @psymbaparsapu 3 года назад

      @@kimsnarf Hey great! Thank you so much for the information!

  • @synthseeker
    @synthseeker 3 года назад +1

    It's been even a few more months...do you still own it? Or did it go to the big synth farm in the sky? :)

  • @blindianajones
    @blindianajones 3 года назад

    Really appreciate this video. I struggled and returned a dfam and mother 32. I did not connect with either interface and really disliked the tiny pitch knobs. I'm pretty sure those are the same knobs on subH for the sequencers and pitch. Especially not great for live performing, following the various positions of any of the knobs.

  • @LucIndustries
    @LucIndustries 3 года назад +2

    I'll just try to get it before I am used to regular synthesis. Should make it easier if I start to think in sub oscillations right away.

  • @weepwow
    @weepwow 3 года назад +1

    Great overview on the SubH. I picked one up a few weeks ago.. Loved it at first, and have figured out its capabilities pretty well;
    but since then, I can cover lots of what the SubH does with some new additions and variety (with less $$)- a few Korg Volcas, 2 Dreadbox Typhons... etc. Do you know if it can only receive on a single midi channel-1? I am having trouble figuring out how to make it respond to other Midi besides Ch. 1...Too bad they did not include a Midi Out.. I understand it is geared more to Modular, but it could be so much better, seems like they missed something.
    Anyway, I am interested in getting a Subsequent 37 now since I dont have a dedicated Synth (just a Keystep and Push-2). I had an original Minimoog Model D in the 70's (and a Moog is a Moog,-iconic). I am thinking about selling the SubH to finance part of the Sub 37. In your opinion, would you sell the SubH to get the Sub 37? I believe you have both Moogs - thanks.

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад +1

      In a heartbeat 👍🏼 I actually did in a way. A few weeks after this video I sold it and a few days after that I re-bought the sub37. Haven’t looked back once. The subH might be more “unique”, but the sub37 is everything I want in a powerful mono synth. Do check out Sequential Pro3, I haven’t used it but I hear it’s fierce competition for the sub 37. Hope that helps!

    • @weepwow
      @weepwow 3 года назад

      @@MidlifeSynthesist Thanks for the reply and opinion. Yes, I have been comparing features of the Pro 3 vs. Sub 37... But I keep coming back to the fact that its not a Moog. I'd like to see few comparison videos. Take care.

  • @bauhnguefyische667
    @bauhnguefyische667 3 года назад +2

    Yep,
    1. Reset issue. Ive been through that. High and slow learning curve.
    End result better feel for SH’s sound.
    2. It’s not good to think of it as a monosynth, it really isn’t with 6 oscillates controlled by 2 VCO’s.

  • @arikivimaki
    @arikivimaki 3 года назад

    Just put in an order for this in local webstore. Watched your video, cancelled the order and saved my money for something more suitable. Thanks!

  • @mauchkimberly
    @mauchkimberly 2 года назад

    Revisiting subharmonicon videos (because I'm sort of enamored with it, yet I've hated it irl...but it's had an update so...). I see I've already watched this. Yet something of note: you said "over 3k subscribers now"...and you have 22k+. Nice!

  • @jonaseggen2230
    @jonaseggen2230 3 года назад +3

    Thanks for the warning, I'm to stupid for these kinds of devices so that's one synth less on my "maybe I should get at some point list". But yes, the sound this thing can make is really something and in the right hands this is gold. For me though it would be pearls before swine or just a lump of coal.

    • @MidlifeSynthesist
      @MidlifeSynthesist  3 года назад +1

      Same feeling here bro! I’ve seen Red Means Recording do some amazing improve on it, but it’s just not the style of stuff I like making. I guess I’m just a simple man at heart lol. Thanks for watching and commenting, see you around!

  • @Nokanmusic
    @Nokanmusic 3 года назад

    You are correct about your talking points.

  • @sinepilot
    @sinepilot 3 года назад

    I'm really glad I have it, it's fascinating to play with, but I agree with the criticisms. It can definitely help dislodge writer's block and provide nice evolving textures to improv on top of, which is the main reason I purchased it. But my issue with the Subharmonicon is it tends to dominate whatever jam I'm working on, and can be really difficult to (pleasantly) change what it's doing in the middle of a performance without going off in really strange directions, so it limits my confidence to be spontaneous. It can very easily make things too busy-sounding and take attention away from other voices. As a result, I am trying really hard to use it less actually, my tunes have become more manic since I started using it, when I was intending to lay down something more chill and spacey. I did come up with something amazing and danceable with it yesterday, a really great spontaneous moment when I patched my Mother32 LFO Triangle Wave Out into the SubHarm's Cutoff filter and cranked the LFO rate so high it created a harmonic with the root note and then flipped the filter to High Pass for some nasty distortion, holy moly it melted my brain, but yeah there's a learning curve and less is definitely more with this fascinating lil desktop box.

  • @hoagy_ytfc
    @hoagy_ytfc Год назад

    I’m trying hard to love it. Only had it a few days so hopefully I’ll have the patience to stick with it. Ditto the DFAM! That’s even harder to get anything good out of it, IME.

  • @ChrisJones-rd4wb
    @ChrisJones-rd4wb 3 года назад

    As someone who enjoys the less harmonic sounds of noise music, those discordant screeches are appealing too me and my type of music haha.
    Good review sir, i may have one of these in the future.
    How extreme and discordant can this baby go? Can it generate static noises?

  • @motaki79
    @motaki79 2 года назад +1

    ‘Since Nintendo’s motorcycle stage in battletoads’.. I’m dying ☠️☠️ amen brother lmao.🤣