Yes and no. There’s for sure company promotion 100% but there are many channels who also make music with gear that they vibe with. I myself am going through a turning point right now where I’m headed more in that direction.
I've noticed a lot of GAS-management videos lately, so clearly the problem and the availability of things to GAS over have reached some kind of critical mass. After being frequently mentioned over the last several years, people are now actually talking more seriously about it, which is good. Since I don't have much money, for me, one of the main problems when it comes to GAS isn't that I bought so much stuff I didn't use much, but that I spent too much time looking at things I might want to buy. For me, the way I ended up managing it was that I basically started getting rid of anything that had ever made me either feel I didn't use it enough to merit keeping it, that made me feel bad for not using it, or that distracted me from using things that I enjoyed more. This included things that I had used a lot and absolutely love too, both in sound or functionality or both, but that I now realised were distracting from and hampering my creativity rather than helping it. Doing art, any kind of art, is an exercise in management of self-imposed restrictions.
Yesterday, I sold my OP-1 because I fell out of love with it. Today, I went looking for a replacement, only for the "travelling" aspect of it (I was already not using it in the studio anymore). I ended up watching hundreds of videos for cool, expensive boxes that I would love to have! At the literal end of the day, I got a list and... realized none of those fancy things would in fact be cool music toys for when I'm travelling. I was just bombarded with reminders of all the gear I want. For once, I was the better side of myself, and did not buy anything stupid. I got a battery bank and a ripcord to make my favorite instrument - and the one I know best - portable. It's not as rewarding as a shiny new (or used) thing, but I don't have to deal with manuals, feeling musically illiterate (more than usual) or spend all my savings. I feel like there comes a point were one must recognize their own proficiency with a tool as a feature that fancy, gas-inducing gear doesn't have. The satisfaction that comes from making music with a tool you master is like no other to me. It just feels like your ideas are willed into existence. Literal magic, like casting a "make good music" spell. It's fantastic. And feels better than buying something, I promise!
I don't understand why you got rid of the OP-1! If I'm not using something, I just put it back in the box and in the closet and leave it there until I can figure out a use for it. Also, buying new gear is because it's for inspiration. If you went to buy something new to try it, it might provide that inspiration with its newness. After that, comes the hard work of figuring out all the nuances. I have a lot now after collecting over the past five years, but nothing like a RUclips Channel would have. And slowly through the gear acquisitions, it has brought me more into focus for what my vision is and that will decide which tools get used and which don't. They're all just tools for music design anyway. It might be that in a few years, I'll find that all I need is a portable recorder to capture found sounds and a DAW, and nothing else, no hardware. There's simply no way to know until you have gone through the GAS process.
@@shitmandood Oh don't worry, I use a lot of other gear. As you say, some stuff gets used, and some doesn't. Personally, I'm not in a financial situation where it is viable to let an OP-1 sit on a shelf for possibly years, until the inspiration to use it comes back... MAYBE. I have found lots of other things that I love more, though they are not portable. However, I found out that when I do need something portable, I don't need something that can "do it all", but rather something that does one thing really really well. Therefore, the OP-1 became both "too much" and "too little" for my needs (and let's be honest, my "wants" too). I hope that clears some things up! ps: FYI (if that's interesting or relevant), the chosen one I ended up upgrading with a battery bank is Elektron's Model:Samples. It's the instrument I feel I "master" the most. I love it! :)
@@shitmandood I would categorize his decision as one of those "we all do things differently" things. I don't really care for my OP-1, though I haven't considered selling it. Maybe I'll like it again someday, maybe I won't. It's there waiting for me, if I do. That said, if I wanted a good chunk of money to use towards something else I knew I DID want or might need, I can also understand one's decision to sell the OP-1. Some people hold onto things more often, some people have a more "out with the old, in with the new" attitude. And there are so many different attitudes in between these two that would determine if one kept or sold something like an OP-1, a device that they didn't at the time feel like using anymore. To each their own, right?
Great video! The second hand market can fuel GAS even more than new products, especially if you're on a budget. Spending proper time with your instrument is so important, thanks for the reminder!
What works for me: give concerts. It doesn't have to be professional... for you friends, family or neighbour is also OK. You have to make music or show you hobby.
I'm glad people are starting to finally realize how GAS affects all of us. I definitely have had to slow down and realize that while yes, we do currently live in a golden era of synths/dawless/electronic music equipment - it's not going anywhere. That piece of gear will still be around when you're actually ready for it. Unless it's limited edition, then BUY IT. DO IT.
Thank God we all have bought in to this addiction though, because it allows us to cycle this stuff around, By us making so many purchases, we all have so many choices. Also we keep innovation on an up swing.
This stuff holds its value really well... Ive bought every version of the Cooper/Bliss Generation Loss effects pedal. I've also subsequently Sold every version of the Generation Loss when the new version does not do what I need. Sell it for what i paid and wait for the next version.
My strategy to combat GAS is to avoid too much overlap between gear. I have a Yamaha dx21, although it’s pretty basic as an Fm synth, I would not buy another FM synth. I have one digital, one analog drum synth, one sampler, one delay pedal. I know that at a certain point things will slightly overlap, but it’s managable.
I just want to say, "thank you! thank you! thank you! You do so well at straight talk with the music making technology of today. So very helpful for a beginner!!
I agree with alot of this... I'm guilty of Gas'n hard. I'm a guitarist at heart but after I got my minibrute and mpc live I've fallen in love with synths. I had started to plan out a synth setup that was a whole page long but I condensed it down to just a keyboard like the Roland Fantom-08, my mpc, and a peak. I'd love to own tons of stuff but it all boils down to making music efficiently.
@@CaidicusProductions man I use it for everything, not just hip-hop. Right now I got my Fractal FM3 and my computer running Arturia V collection via midi and I literally make anything I want. I love my MPC
MPC One, Tascam Model 12, standing desk, and a Mac Studio w/monitor are the 4 really useful and needed pieces of gear that will set my studio into place. I'd say out of all of those the MPC One is the most impactful.
@@technodrone313 I’d never get a PC just because I’m invested in Mac across the board and Windows is not my thing. I edit in FCPX and love Metasynth which is Mac only. The baseline Studio is a pretty good value. The design and the solid MacOS is what you pay more for..
I managed or got over my G.A.S. by taking inventory of every piece of gear I have and it was pretty eye opening seeing it in list form. Now I revisit each piece of gear on a 1 week rotation and I watch reviews and YT vids on the gear that I already own and I think it has made it so much easier to resist the urge to buy shiny new gear.
I like connecting all my synths and gear together, and have it all running at the same time. Then I can see just how much power I already have, and how I haven’t even scratched the surface. That usually not only stops me from purchasing more, but also gets me excited by what I have. I have a lot of TE so it is all portable and you can end up just using one thing at a time. So connecting it all together and being able to make a huge sound, it is a lot of fun. GAS be gone.
I just call it "anti-social inflation hedge". Always buy 2nd hand, great condition, at 75% or less of the current list/"lowest at reverb" price and what interests you. When these conditions are not met... pass it. It will not lead to buying everything immediately, but you can be pretty sure about getting back the sameish value when selling the less suitable devices. Avoid buying from reverb and seek the deals from alternative market places. Set a target device and scan through the selected market places every breakfast, every coffee break, every lunch break, every toilet break, etc. It wont take much time in the end because you'll develop a situational awareness of the market. It will not take any time away from your hobby as you are just using the time that's wasted in socializing or something crappy else. Expect great dopamine bursts when the deal finally appears. It still doesn't mean you'll use all of them all the time, but you'll have the legos available when you want to play around. This way the hobby itself becomes a lot more tolerable mentally and you wont have any friends anymore to steal your precious time and you'll feel like shit and want to take a deep dive into the devices to make you forget the misery your gas has caused. The circle is complete... f*ck! Tada!
The same process here ☝🏻!! I still don't understand why music making and hardware acquisition always come into balance!! As you say: its about having the legos for when you need them!! And IMO buying and testing new technologies is a hobby in itself!! And a way to keep the market bringing new exciting machines in the future!! Keep gas, but with “economy” controll!!
This is the way - I've owned several thousand pounds worth of gear over the last couple of years and it's essentially cost me nothing because it's purchased used. And it means my music gear lives an essentially Darwinian life. If I don't love it and use it all the time then it goes so what I'm left with is the stuff that really works for me and I like.
Blows my mind that more people don't see how synthtube was the sole catalyst for DAWless. 10 years ago everyone was in a DAW for practicality now everyone seems to think DAWs are evil since they want to emulate the clout of a setup that was likely put together by someone because it looks better on video than a PC/controller. No one can logically argue how much better a 20 synth DAWless setup is without the confirmation bias that comes from spending months trying to successfully route the whole thing and the hundreds/thousands of dollars worth of cables/splitters/patch bays that go along with it.
I work with computers all day long. I don't want to create music with a mouse and keyboard when I get home. I think you can do everything and more on a PC/MAC, even Linux. But does it inspire you the same? I don't think so.
Well said LK! It reminds me of the 90s when you looked forward to hitting up the video store to rent a video game for the weekend. Those bad boys were like $60 a pop but getting to try them out for a few days scratched the itch. Same thing with GAS. If you're not buying intentionally for a creative need, you're likely watching gear videos and scouring marketplace so you can try out gear for the funnsies. Which is fine, but be willing to resell if the gear isn't a fit. I think you have to stay honest and realize why you're GASing. Some folks have a creative process that is only spurred by new stuff and that's when you're not tapping into potential!
This is me exactly. I'm no musician, I just like playing with synths. This is what I've bought in the last 2 years : Roland fantom x7, MPC One, Digitakt, po33, OPZ, BEHRINGER TD3, Korg monologue, volca beats, volca bass and now got a dirtywave m8 on its way. I wish I could just learn one then see something else and I'm ooo that's nice. Need to stop now.
@@LiamKillen but the really stupid thing that is holding me back is no musical theory and I think that's the problem. Everything I try I just can't create anything good. I tend to think maybe it's the work flow on the digitakt or MPc one, but really the problem is me. I really need to learn some music theory and finger drumming then I can probably make some great tracks on anything 👍
Excellent video. I'm not techy at all and get confused by terms so I like your demonstration videos. You make it easy to understand. Thanks for what you do.
I'm not a victim of GAS yet, but I have dipped my toes in the water. I've always loved technology, and I have always loved music. About a year ago I once again started playing the guitar, but this time I went a little more streamlined and picked up a 3 string Guitar Box Guitar. I have been practicing on it almost daily since then, and I enjoy improvising more than trying to learn the songs I grew up listening too. I'm not exceptionally good, but it makes me feel really good and relaxed when I play it and sometimes I actually create some really chill energetic grooves. Well recently I saw some RUclips videos on the Roland E-4, J-6, and T-8 and I just had to have them. They totally appealed to my computer nerdy side, and I am a huge fan of EDM anyways, have been since the 90's. So I did purchase them. I didn't really need the E-4, but it fills in a hole in music creation process; like Liam mentioned, so I bought it just in case. I have enjoyed improvising with them but so far my grooves on the CBG have been more successful. But I am not giving up. Recently (this week) after seeing more RUclips videos, because they always pop up in the suggested stream, I went on eBay and scored a used OP-1. It also totally appeals to my EDM nerdliness and I look forward to putting a bunch of time into it as well as my other instruments. Hopefully I will stop at this point, but all those darn synth's and sequencers, and loopers look so fricking awesome. Is there a 12 step program for this? I think I need it already....I blame all of this on Look Mum No Computer because he makes music with all kinds of strange stuff and that so peaked my interest in doing the same. Not that I can, but I am really trying....
I look at it like this. I've been addicted to drugs, distractions, food, really all kinds of stuff. I'm sure many people have. Like many people I've spent a long time coming to grips with my own behaviors and habits. When I buy something due to my GAS, I am definitely being naughty. Out of control. I'm not rich but my studio is, which is bad for me financially of course. But here's the thing, the one fact that makes GAS the best type of addiction: you spend 5k on blow, you lose 5k and wake up 3 days later with nothing but a hangover and a bunch of problems. You spend 5k on GAS and you wake up with a nicer studio.
the true way to move forward with GAS is to adopt a DIY by any means necessary attitude and to learn to understand life is not about material wealth but love and creativity
GAS seems to get better with experience as you learn what you enjoy using and what you don't. For example, I thought I really enjoyed step sequencers, but I've found that I really prefer to play it by ear and record things live and tweak as necessary. I've also come to learned that I want to finish songs, not just jam live. I've had an intense 18 months of discovery where I plowed through more hardware than I needed, luckily mostly second hand, so no real financial issue. Things like the Digitakt, Digitone, Pocket Operator, various midi controllers, the MPC One, the MC-101, etc. I've now learned what I truly appreciate and what I "need" vs want. Today, I'm happy with my MPC and a couple of synths: one analog (Minilogue XD) and one digital (Hydrasynth Explorer). I don't feel I need anything else. That said, I've made some upgrades along the way (Genelec 8010 > 8030, MPC One > MPC Live 2), but only after discovering what I truly enjoy. If I could only have one device, I'd stick with my MPC.
Totally. I found out that my brain works like arturia synths and electron sequencing. The immediacy of sound design and quickly composing is made possible by their workflow. Minibrute 2s and m:c are a decent combination. I will say, abelton has been convincing me more and more that my keylab mkii is the best tool for me to work with that workflow. GAS had me buying lots of stuff I didn’t need, but did give me the chance to hone in on the target.
Great guide especially for an old synth head such as me (is that even a thing? haha). Definite self-inflicted victim of GAS. I’m staring at synths of mine right now that need some more personal attention. Always great videos Liam.
@@LiamKillen big true. ive been focusing on the digitone alone for the past 9 months (its my first synth ever) and ive got to say this thing requires some serious brain
You made some solid points. Really interesting how this video came up when I was considering replacing my Volca FM1 with the FM2 but I think I want to learn it more deeply and truly get the most out of it before I consider replacing it. Those 6 voices on the FM2 are tempting though 😅
The G.A.S is a real phenomenon.... ive gone through it, and after a while you soon realise, after all the gear purchased, the way forward is dependant on your goal!! ive personally settled on a setup to give me the most creative/production/live approach(not that ive produced anything... rather im still integrating everything with that goal in mind ive gone with X2 Maschine Jam midi controllers, a Maschine Mk2 &Mk1, FCB1010 and a behringer BCR2000 a audio interface & a 4770k PC... which is the basis of all the hardware i need DAW software is Maschine/Reaper/VirtualDJ(free) and additionally routing software ive gone with is Voicemeter potato & Bomes midi translator These purchases open all doors to music production and even for live use!! making all your hardware work together is where the Reaper Daw alongside Voicemeter/Bomes midi give you the best of everything!!
This video came up when I was looking at vids about the Roland EMX-1 I just bought.🤣 Does nothing any of the "newer" gear I already own does. It was a 2am Reverb purchase after watching some live performances on YT. I still have 3 pieces of new gear in their box I haven't even opened...won't admit what they are to prevent online bullying. First step is admitting you have a problem.
God, the pain. It's so exciting and giddy to get more gear - literally just like CHRISTMAS opening stuff and setting it up and trying it out - but MASTERY IS HARD it takes TIME and ENERGY to be an artist, a creator and creators make art with ANYTHING but it's so much easier just to enter credit card autofill & click "complete purchase" again to get that rush
I've been happy with the mpc X... Doesn't seem to be lacking in any department. The updates have been incredible... From a purely creative standpoint there's really no need to upgrade for quite a while especially when paired with VSTs. Get the X Liam 🤭
@@LiamKillen it's a rare gem. Everyone's jumping on the live and one because affordability, but the Q links and connectivity... The workflow improvements... Sell a couple of things collecting dust and treat yourself to a centerpiece 💜
I’m a total beginner who just ordered an MPC ONE, what do you think is the best value/budget synth to use with an MPC? Is there better bang for my buck than an Arturia microfreak?
So true... "more gear does not equal better music". Also, more gear equals less playing. I played the most when all I had was a microbrute and a Big Muff. The more I added the less I played.
@@LiamKillen yep. You get to a point where gear management /gear arrangement /setup consumes all your time. Im building a house next year and will finally have a dedicated space for music. Im going to get all my gear (way less than yours) installed so that its all ready to play at any given time. I think that way will be much more conducive to creating.
GAS seems like a big thing in the music industry. I have to tell myself, you want to make better music then spend some time learning music theory and get better with existing tools. Enjoying the OP-1 and Deluge combo. Eyeing the Digitone, but not sure if I would need it.
Yah, digitone would enhance your deluge/op1 combo with its superior synth engine. It's a bit less portable than the other two though. Cheers! On reflection hold off on that digitone and cram some counterpoint instead. (;
Playpm does Gas Therapy videos on RUclips, he's hilarious and it's always about what free setup you can do with you cheap laptop that does the same as a hardware groove box and is better because it's more powerful. I have a Cycles and yes the sequencer is tight but lately I just play it into my computer because it's better workflow honestly with what I do, which is matching grooves from songs I like (which I sample quickly using Blackhole server).
My solution is to buy gear second hand and then sell when I buy. If you keep your gear well, the cost can be quite low. Especially if you're happy with trying older models out. For example the Push 1 is an absolute bargain now.
remember most gear sucks its ok to buy sample and sell and use a nice sequencer on the sample with some effect filters if only more people on freesound made cc0 public domain stuff of new synths
I really appreciate your acknowledgment and ownership of your roll in GAS-conomics, (freshly coined) so to speak. I don't think it's any reviewer's intention to stoke that flame, for the most part, but it is intrinsically connected. I'm giving recognition here because many reviewers don't acknowledge GAS and or their rolls in it so, kudos, or chocolate chip cookies or sushi to you. Maybe it's an uncomfortable feeling and people don't want to deal. Fine, no judgement but GAS is real and I think more reviewers should address the issue in a way that's... dare I say, resonant... with them since it is part of the synth community and some may actually need some real help.
This is a great video. Nice job! GAS sucks, just have to learn how to reign it in and make sure you watch out for overlap. That's how I operate anyway.
The fact that synths crank out with such high frequency is a sign that the consumer is overpaying for the product. Especially the digital products. I dabble in EE, but am a programmer by trade, and I can tell you this. In the DIY synth arena, a lot of code is reused from project to project. I suspect that these companies are doing just that. They're building these synthesizers off of forks and selling you the product at cost on the hardware.
I cured my GAS by having just two powerful devices -- a daw in a box, and one nice synth. Specifically, the Akai Force and a Sequential Pro 3. But really, any nice synth would work... or none at all. The Force (and some sort of midi keyboard, like a Keystep) is all I actually need. As a side note, definitely check the manual and the web _before_ asking an enthusiast community for help. It's just basic netiquette.
The manual is usually my last resort because I’m more of a visual learner and in my experience RUclips is just much more informative, clear + hands on.
@@LiamKillen Yeah, the Hydrasynth is absolutely fantastic. MPC is pretty sweet too, and an amazing value. I went with Force instead though, because I prefer a clips+arranger workflow instead of patterns. As for getting help, RUclips is great. With almost any topic though, the help process is: 1. Try to figure it out. 2. Look for info in already-existing materials from both users and the manufacturer... like the manual, videos, web search, old forum posts, etc. 3. Ask a human for help. This generally works out best for everyone involved, minimizing the time required to get answers, while also minimizing the total amount of human effort spent. Anyway, it's cool seeing videos like this lately -- on fighting GAS, and focusing on learning and creating instead of collecting.
my GAS isn't for instruments as much as it is for plugins and audio hardware. BUT I sub'd because I 1000% agree with the "master what you have today" idea. awesome video and I look forward to your other content. 👌🏾
speaking about syntakt, i already own the digitakt+digitone combo and i would REALLY love to try it out but man its even more expensive than the former two
RUclips is just a giant commercial at this point and these are the consequences of that transition to Brands influencing the influencers. If channels had to purchase everything on their own I'm sure it would be a better situation. Any person who says it does not influence their outlook on gear is lying to themselves and us. That always has an impact on you feel about something. Channels will go crazy over something new that they got for free and you'll never hear about that gear again after the embargo. I like your channel because you revisit gear well after it was released and focus on certain strengths of that gear for a particular genre. Also finding your voice does take a lot of buying and selling gear unfortunately. Lots of amateurs and pros go through countless guitars, violins, saxes over their lifetime etc. Just the nature of the beast.
Hey I appreciate you watching. BUT ALSO! We spoiled. On day 1 we often have several in depth videos explaining exactly how a given synth works along with comparisons to others of its kind. For someone who’s done day one content it takes A LOT of time to figure out a machine from scratch + put together something that’s worthwhile watching- so I always appreciate that. 15 years ago you spent 3x as much for something you’d have to spend 5x longer to learn only to possibly find out that it’s not for you. RUclips has made synths + electronic music accessible to everyone at a very low cost. The flip side is that yes to a certain extent it‘a being taken into more of a commercial direction and we’re overwhelmed with choice. This is something that I’ve been rethinking myself in regards to this channel.
@@LiamKillen very true and yeah we are spoiled lol and you're making good music with whatever is in front of you so I think you're headed in the right direction.
That's actually not bad advice. I don't have as much gear as some people out here, but I find that even with me, I'm probably only through at most 50-60% of the functions each hardware synth/groovebox is capable of. I typically do months worth of research into what I need before I purchase something. And in that time, sometimes new gear appears which I haven't even considered. I wanted Behringer D-model, but then decided to go for Neutron instead. Wanted ASM Hydrasynth, but after months of examining better FM alternatives Kodamo Essence FM came up and I eventually went for it instead of Hydrasynth, newer FM Yamahas and Korg Opsix. Live playing, improvisations and jamming are very important to me though. I spend 70-80% of time doing that and only 10-20% putting tracks together.
My biggest GAS problem is that the thing I really want just doesn't exist yet and all these products are all 95% what I want so I sell gear, by the new one, then I get frustrated over the 5% that isn't working for me, sell and then try something else :p
You gotta use the minibrute 2s. I got one and it's amazing. I'm not even a synth guy, I just got it to do arps over my guitar stuff but I've played it more than I expected. ✌️
I've solved my GAS by having one thing that can do all the basics really well (novation summit) and the only other things i've kept are things that do specific things very well that i wanted (megaFM)
@@LiamKillen it’s a peak on steroids and it’s my favorite piece of machinery for sure even though I don’t always use it but it’s the only thing I’d really ~need~
The (My) problem is in "affordable stuff". i had heavy photography GAS. I wanted something I couldn't afford (a Leica M Monochrom) and my terrible strategy was to make-do with cheaper stuff, leading to frustration, leading to GAS. I ended buying that Leica anyway with a 3 year payement plan. Never bought a camera ever again. Same for music gear. Now I bought a Maschine+ (expensive), it does everything, I never wanted something similar ever gain. (My M+ does it too, and so much more, why would I want that ?). Every time I bought something cheap it ended up being a bad decision. unless it's cheap because it's underhyped old gear. Like my JV-880 I got for 100e. But I still want that Integra-7 :D. It's biological "it's an investment, I need to make the most of it" vs "meh, sound fun/useable, I can probably do something with it (or not)".
I totally understand. I’m going through a phase now too where I’m focusing 100% solely on the high quality stuff- it’s more expensive but I think it makes a difference.
I've been a victim of GAS, but at the same time, I think I would not have known what gears inspire me if it were by trial and error. When I don't connect to a gear workflow, I resale it.
@@LiamKillen But, and hear me out, here... If I was to buy another groovebox... And I'm not saying I am, would you go with the Polyend Play or the Deluge? The Deluge seems like it is thinking out of the box and I've heard nothing but praise from literally everyone that's set their hands on one. The Polyend Play looks very interesting too. Plus I could get a brand new one for less than a used Deluge. My situation is that I bought a Digitone and I am really not feeling the workflow. It sounds fucking incredible though. I want to get into FM synthesis but I'm finding it hard to get motivated to even play this thing. Also, I should mention that I have two grooveboxes already: a 707 and a 101. I love the Roland workflow. I love just about everything about these little guys. The Elektron is just the complete opposite though. I'm not one of those "limitations sparks creativity" guys. For as bad ass as this little synth is, I think that if I want to lay a kick and a high hat down on one step, I should be able to lay a kick and a high hat down on the same step without doing workarounds.
The only gear I have ever had is... my laptop, wich is not even a gear per se. But this video is way good. I do think that I would spend lots of money in gear, if they did not cost 10 times their real price when it comes to importing them back here....
Thanks a lot ! excellent and useful video ! I spent so much time trying to fix issues with Cubase so I almost didn't try to make music over the last 3 to 6 months...as a matter of fact, there are many tools I discovered on Garage Band and free I-Pad apps , I'm trying to clarify my needs... actually, I just managed to build a stand to simplify my gear use, I have another one to build to have physically something comfortable to use... then I will see what I need. I might need a Arturia Beat Step to bring together my gear. I have a Kurzweil SP4-8, a Behringer DeepMind 12, a Novation Bass Station 2, a Roli Seabord and an Alesis SR18 drum machine (that I don't know how to use optimally). But I also use a lot Garage Band and free i-pad applications that are pretty good. However GAS is not only about what you need but also about what toy you're dreaming of...and can reasonably afford it. If I could, GAS would make me get Kurzweil K3700, Oberheim OBX 8, Moog subsequent 37, AKAI Professional MPC X , Pittsburgh East Beast and West Pest, Waldorff iridium, Hammond Organ and the newest Rhodes EP. and also i'm attracted to the Roland Integra 7
Interesting video. I thought a lot about what is the minimum viable set up to achieve the sound I want. I wanted a very flexible sequencer (deluge) a cheap but deep synth (microfreak) and a module that could operate as FX/inspiration/mastering chain (404Mk2). Gotta manage the GAS!
Those features are almost all in deluge itself. Of course then the limits to sound and workflows are there but synths, sampling and effects are doable in Deluge. I use sometimes my old drumbrute for separate drum tweaking and monologue for instant leads. I route those gear through delude so i dont need even a mixer. I havent even played much with sampling yet. Im though in hobbyist / beginner level on synths. GAS hits me quite often as well.
@@Vaari80 I agrée and the deluge is amazing - I could probably drop the microfreak and not feel a loss but the 404s ability to make things sound rich and deep and complex is second to none
MPC One is all I need. It does everything I need it to. AraabMuzik uses an MPC 2500 only to work his insanity. So it's all about the man behind the machine and having tons of gear doesn't make a better producer. It's a proven fact.
@@LiamKillen My GAS has primarily been focused on older gear. As someone still new to this whole game, it's been a whirlwind of discovery to explore different pieces of equipment. I absolutely love to thrift and so finding fun and funky gear has been a real treat. While some are investing in crypto, my current currency is classic keyboards.
Id love to help you out with that minibrute 2s! I can DM you some photos of patches (since it has no patch memory) I use mine mainly for bass but it works well for leaves and arps!
Great great points. I agree. I have enough synths but I keep getting pulled in by companies for the next thing. I havent pulled the trigger on most things because I feel like the gaps in my sound for dawless jamming are filled. I feel like Ill eventually cave and pick up 2 more volcas but yeah, I have to stop and ask myself if I need them? are they filling a gap? Can I replace my old gear for the new gear? Edit: I have a Microfreak, Volca FM, Volca Bass, Circuit Tracks, NTS-1 and the PO-133.
That’s exactly it! These questions are answered overtime with more and more experience. It’s really a personal thing but I suggest to try and avoid overlap!
I got into DIY eurorack synths which allows gas, but is cheaper. Though patience and time is needed to make the synths which is fun. So I don’t feel so guilty because I’m not spending much money.
How would you recommend learning about chords, melody, harmony, etc. for someone with no musical training? I feel comfortable programming drum patterns and designing sounds but I always dread trying to come up with chord sequences or (especially) making sure two instruments are in tune with each other!
hmm. this kinda seems like an ad too? I started to gas for at least an OP1 or 404Mk2 just from watching this. The images are so strong. Playpm’s channel really is gas therapy.
Yeah I have a nice cam- no it’s not an ad lol That would be a conflict of interest for all the synth companies I mentioned. PlayPM is cool for sure. I like his concept BUT! He is disingenuous with his comparisons sometimes. Still, a solid work around looking for ways around expensive hardware.
@@LiamKillen I like that notion- having an open forum like this is the better future for youtube that folks like you and pm can contribute too. I would certainly watch that.
@@LiamKillen also i’ve asked playpm to make a GAS therapy for a Soma Pulsar23 and or a DSI Tempest to which the reply was that they do not own one and so wouldn’t be able to reproduce it in garageband/ or other “free” daw :(
I gotta admit, I’ve fallen victim to GAS. I did manage to pick up a UDO Super 6 at random. Super risky given how much they are, but man I lucked out. On the other hand, I bought an OP-1 that is pretty much a dust trap at this point. I only bought it because I rarely ever heard anything bad about it. I guess I just don’t gel with it, and turned out to be an expensive mistake of GAS.
Pretty much what I'm dealing with these days, as a hobby no less! I feel like weaknesses in my understanding of music are causing me to hit a wall very quickly with these devices. At least I've come to the realization that yet another synth has no chance of making me any better at making music, so the hype around SP-404, Syntakt, Roland E-4/J-6/T-8, Sonicware Liven XFM seem to be bouncing off of me without stirring up too much GAS. I am finding that YT videos are really a mixed bag, some are too elementary and the end products are uninspiring at best, while in others the demonstrator FLIES through the keystrokes on the device and you have no chance of following or understanding what you just watched. There are lots of good performance vids, I wish I could narrow the gap between my newby understanding and even half the ability of RMR, Gabe Miller or Freebeat, but I'll keep plugging along. Good luck, everyone, have fun and take a deep breath or 1000 before spending your hard-earned cash on the latest release from XYZ Syntho-matic Corp's Analog Digital Groovebox Sampler Music Machine with optional vacuum attachments!
Well obviously you can do whatever you want! I’m making suggestions/pointing people into directions and explaining GAS from my perspective as an experienced synth user. I suggest using the chapters/topics if you’re looking for something a little more specific than just “go out and buy whatever you want whenever you want” 🍻
The chip shortage gave me time to reflect on whether the products on my wishlist were actually NEEDED and ended up with just a couple of items and none of them were urgent. Instead I decided to put more time into the gear I've already got.
What do you think about the Alesis SR18 ? I bought it because of the great reviews, but i'm not convinced ...maybe I should have bought Arturia Drumbrute instead? what do you think ? I try to play ambient music (i love shine on you crazy diamond, also listen to Klaus Schulze) jazz standards (The shadow of your smile is my fav tune) , french songs (Et si tu n'existais pas, Joe Dassin. Je reviens te chercher, Gilbert Becaud) , Latino american songs (malaguena Salerosa, Besa Me, Historia de un Amor) and some Beatles songs (eleanor Rigby)
I don’t know much about the Alesia but the Drumbrute Impact is hella solid. A few things you might wanna know: ruclips.net/video/G8rkT3qQqK4/видео.html
Do you have anything to synthesize analog percussion? This was the reason for me to pick up the Syntakt (before release I was GASing on the RYTM), maybe it could be for you too? 😈
My GAS with the RYTM started as I was trying it out casually in a shop and had a pretty deep groove going after just a few minutes. The four analog tracks of the Syntakt did that job equally well and the 8 „additional“ digital voices are a very warm welcomed „bonus“ 😅
Never had a drumbrute under my fingers, so no clue, how this thing would get the groove for me going. Just saying that the analog drums on the Elektron boxes sound equally groovy to me
A lot of big synthtubers just make ads for gear companies.
Yes and no. There’s for sure company promotion 100% but there are many channels who also make music with gear that they vibe with. I myself am going through a turning point right now where I’m headed more in that direction.
Yeah, it's just a big, ironic, vicious cycle.
And then make videos on GAS
I used to love watching all those guys now I just get sick of seeing them with all the latest gear that’s sent to them for free
@@valley_robot Yeah, how they veil ads at tutorials is really what gets me.
I've noticed a lot of GAS-management videos lately, so clearly the problem and the availability of things to GAS over have reached some kind of critical mass. After being frequently mentioned over the last several years, people are now actually talking more seriously about it, which is good.
Since I don't have much money, for me, one of the main problems when it comes to GAS isn't that I bought so much stuff I didn't use much, but that I spent too much time looking at things I might want to buy.
For me, the way I ended up managing it was that I basically started getting rid of anything that had ever made me either feel I didn't use it enough to merit keeping it, that made me feel bad for not using it, or that distracted me from using things that I enjoyed more.
This included things that I had used a lot and absolutely love too, both in sound or functionality or both, but that I now realised were distracting from and hampering my creativity rather than helping it.
Doing art, any kind of art, is an exercise in management of self-imposed restrictions.
You’re 100% right. Couldn’t agree with you more.
Yesterday, I sold my OP-1 because I fell out of love with it. Today, I went looking for a replacement, only for the "travelling" aspect of it (I was already not using it in the studio anymore). I ended up watching hundreds of videos for cool, expensive boxes that I would love to have!
At the literal end of the day, I got a list and... realized none of those fancy things would in fact be cool music toys for when I'm travelling. I was just bombarded with reminders of all the gear I want.
For once, I was the better side of myself, and did not buy anything stupid. I got a battery bank and a ripcord to make my favorite instrument - and the one I know best - portable. It's not as rewarding as a shiny new (or used) thing, but I don't have to deal with manuals, feeling musically illiterate (more than usual) or spend all my savings.
I feel like there comes a point were one must recognize their own proficiency with a tool as a feature that fancy, gas-inducing gear doesn't have. The satisfaction that comes from making music with a tool you master is like no other to me. It just feels like your ideas are willed into existence. Literal magic, like casting a "make good music" spell. It's fantastic. And feels better than buying something, I promise!
🤌🏼 this! 👆
Yeah, but like... You should totally buy the new OP-1 Field. You should buy two, actually. One for home, one for the office.
;P I'm kidding.
I don't understand why you got rid of the OP-1! If I'm not using something, I just put it back in the box and in the closet and leave it there until I can figure out a use for it. Also, buying new gear is because it's for inspiration. If you went to buy something new to try it, it might provide that inspiration with its newness. After that, comes the hard work of figuring out all the nuances.
I have a lot now after collecting over the past five years, but nothing like a RUclips Channel would have. And slowly through the gear acquisitions, it has brought me more into focus for what my vision is and that will decide which tools get used and which don't. They're all just tools for music design anyway. It might be that in a few years, I'll find that all I need is a portable recorder to capture found sounds and a DAW, and nothing else, no hardware. There's simply no way to know until you have gone through the GAS process.
@@shitmandood Oh don't worry, I use a lot of other gear. As you say, some stuff gets used, and some doesn't. Personally, I'm not in a financial situation where it is viable to let an OP-1 sit on a shelf for possibly years, until the inspiration to use it comes back... MAYBE.
I have found lots of other things that I love more, though they are not portable. However, I found out that when I do need something portable, I don't need something that can "do it all", but rather something that does one thing really really well. Therefore, the OP-1 became both "too much" and "too little" for my needs (and let's be honest, my "wants" too).
I hope that clears some things up!
ps: FYI (if that's interesting or relevant), the chosen one I ended up upgrading with a battery bank is Elektron's Model:Samples. It's the instrument I feel I "master" the most. I love it! :)
@@shitmandood I would categorize his decision as one of those "we all do things differently" things. I don't really care for my OP-1, though I haven't considered selling it. Maybe I'll like it again someday, maybe I won't. It's there waiting for me, if I do.
That said, if I wanted a good chunk of money to use towards something else I knew I DID want or might need, I can also understand one's decision to sell the OP-1.
Some people hold onto things more often, some people have a more "out with the old, in with the new" attitude. And there are so many different attitudes in between these two that would determine if one kept or sold something like an OP-1, a device that they didn't at the time feel like using anymore.
To each their own, right?
keeping my life simple.........sp404, tb303, polyend tracker, technic turntable.
And you can make dope beats with just that!!
Great video! The second hand market can fuel GAS even more than new products, especially if you're on a budget. Spending proper time with your instrument is so important, thanks for the reminder!
It really is! Cheers Dante
What works for me: give concerts. It doesn't have to be professional... for you friends, family or neighbour is also OK. You have to make music or show you hobby.
That’s exactly the direction I’m going in
I'm glad people are starting to finally realize how GAS affects all of us. I definitely have had to slow down and realize that while yes, we do currently live in a golden era of synths/dawless/electronic music equipment - it's not going anywhere. That piece of gear will still be around when you're actually ready for it. Unless it's limited edition, then BUY IT. DO IT.
Exactly- I’m coming to this realization as well
Thank God we all have bought in to this addiction though, because it allows us to cycle this stuff around, By us making so many purchases, we all have so many choices. Also we keep innovation on an up swing.
Indeed! There’s an upside to everything
This stuff holds its value really well... Ive bought every version of the Cooper/Bliss Generation Loss effects pedal. I've also subsequently Sold every version of the Generation Loss when the new version does not do what I need. Sell it for what i paid and wait for the next version.
My strategy to combat GAS is to avoid too much overlap between gear. I have a Yamaha dx21, although it’s pretty basic as an Fm synth, I would not buy another FM synth. I have one digital, one analog drum synth, one sampler, one delay pedal. I know that at a certain point things will slightly overlap, but it’s managable.
And that particular gear will give you your sound. It’s a win
I just want to say, "thank you! thank you! thank you! You do so well at straight talk with the music making technology of today. So very helpful for a beginner!!
It’s my pleasure D man- thx for watching 😊
I agree with alot of this... I'm guilty of Gas'n hard. I'm a guitarist at heart but after I got my minibrute and mpc live I've fallen in love with synths. I had started to plan out a synth setup that was a whole page long but I condensed it down to just a keyboard like the Roland Fantom-08, my mpc, and a peak. I'd love to own tons of stuff but it all boils down to making music efficiently.
Exactly- I’m rethinking my whole set up right now
The MPC Live sure is an awesome piece of kit, uh?
I got one in 2017, and it's the most useful piece of gear in my entire setup.
@@CaidicusProductions man I use it for everything, not just hip-hop. Right now I got my Fractal FM3 and my computer running Arturia V collection via midi and I literally make anything I want. I love my MPC
MPC One, Tascam Model 12, standing desk, and a Mac Studio w/monitor are the 4 really useful and needed pieces of gear that will set my studio into place. I'd say out of all of those the MPC One is the most impactful.
I’m just starting to understand it’s sequencing capabilities
how is an expensive monitor helpful for making music? at least compared to a less expensive monitor.
@@technodrone313 I never said I’d get a Mac monitor. You do need a monitor with the Studio.
@@timdanyo898 oh I read Mac studio monitor. Macs are overpriced too tho.
@@technodrone313 I’d never get a PC just because I’m invested in Mac across the board and Windows is not my thing. I edit in FCPX and love Metasynth which is Mac only. The baseline Studio is a pretty good value. The design and the solid MacOS is what you pay more for..
I managed or got over my G.A.S. by taking inventory of every piece of gear I have and it was pretty eye opening seeing it in list form. Now I revisit each piece of gear on a 1 week rotation and I watch reviews and YT vids on the gear that I already own and I think it has made it so much easier to resist the urge to buy shiny new gear.
I love how organized you are about it haha.
I like connecting all my synths and gear together, and have it all running at the same time. Then I can see just how much power I already have, and how I haven’t even scratched the surface. That usually not only stops me from purchasing more, but also gets me excited by what I have. I have a lot of TE so it is all portable and you can end up just using one thing at a time. So connecting it all together and being able to make a huge sound, it is a lot of fun. GAS be gone.
Absolutely! That’s a great approach
I just call it "anti-social inflation hedge".
Always buy 2nd hand, great condition, at 75% or less of the current list/"lowest at reverb" price and what interests you. When these conditions are not met... pass it. It will not lead to buying everything immediately, but you can be pretty sure about getting back the sameish value when selling the less suitable devices. Avoid buying from reverb and seek the deals from alternative market places. Set a target device and scan through the selected market places every breakfast, every coffee break, every lunch break, every toilet break, etc. It wont take much time in the end because you'll develop a situational awareness of the market. It will not take any time away from your hobby as you are just using the time that's wasted in socializing or something crappy else. Expect great dopamine bursts when the deal finally appears. It still doesn't mean you'll use all of them all the time, but you'll have the legos available when you want to play around.
This way the hobby itself becomes a lot more tolerable mentally and you wont have any friends anymore to steal your precious time and you'll feel like shit and want to take a deep dive into the devices to make you forget the misery your gas has caused. The circle is complete... f*ck!
Tada!
Your system is fool proof
The same process here ☝🏻!!
I still don't understand why music making and hardware acquisition always come into balance!! As you say: its about having the legos for when you need them!! And IMO buying and testing new technologies is a hobby in itself!! And a way to keep the market bringing new exciting machines in the future!! Keep gas, but with “economy” controll!!
This is the way - I've owned several thousand pounds worth of gear over the last couple of years and it's essentially cost me nothing because it's purchased used. And it means my music gear lives an essentially Darwinian life. If I don't love it and use it all the time then it goes so what I'm left with is the stuff that really works for me and I like.
I love my MC 707. I always come back to it because it can act as a sound module or as a groovebox to get started with a new track
I love those classic sounds
Blows my mind that more people don't see how synthtube was the sole catalyst for DAWless. 10 years ago everyone was in a DAW for practicality now everyone seems to think DAWs are evil since they want to emulate the clout of a setup that was likely put together by someone because it looks better on video than a PC/controller. No one can logically argue how much better a 20 synth DAWless setup is without the confirmation bias that comes from spending months trying to successfully route the whole thing and the hundreds/thousands of dollars worth of cables/splitters/patch bays that go along with it.
Gonna have to disagree with ya there. DAWs still own but far. dAWLESS is a much smaller niche.
DAWless was around before DAWs, you know
I work with computers all day long. I don't want to create music with a mouse and keyboard when I get home. I think you can do everything and more on a PC/MAC, even Linux. But does it inspire you the same? I don't think so.
Well said LK! It reminds me of the 90s when you looked forward to hitting up the video store to rent a video game for the weekend. Those bad boys were like $60 a pop but getting to try them out for a few days scratched the itch. Same thing with GAS. If you're not buying intentionally for a creative need, you're likely watching gear videos and scouring marketplace so you can try out gear for the funnsies. Which is fine, but be willing to resell if the gear isn't a fit. I think you have to stay honest and realize why you're GASing. Some folks have a creative process that is only spurred by new stuff and that's when you're not tapping into potential!
This is some great input right here!
This is me exactly. I'm no musician, I just like playing with synths. This is what I've bought in the last 2 years : Roland fantom x7, MPC One, Digitakt, po33, OPZ, BEHRINGER TD3, Korg monologue, volca beats, volca bass and now got a dirtywave m8 on its way. I wish I could just learn one then see something else and I'm ooo that's nice. Need to stop now.
That’s totally fine! It’s all about awareness too 😊
@@LiamKillen but the really stupid thing that is holding me back is no musical theory and I think that's the problem. Everything I try I just can't create anything good. I tend to think maybe it's the work flow on the digitakt or MPc one, but really the problem is me. I really need to learn some music theory and finger drumming then I can probably make some great tracks on anything 👍
Excellent video. I'm not techy at all and get confused by terms so I like your demonstration videos. You make it easy to understand. Thanks for what you do.
Glad to help! 🍻
I'm not a victim of GAS yet, but I have dipped my toes in the water. I've always loved technology, and I have always loved music. About a year ago I once again started playing the guitar, but this time I went a little more streamlined and picked up a 3 string Guitar Box Guitar. I have been practicing on it almost daily since then, and I enjoy improvising more than trying to learn the songs I grew up listening too. I'm not exceptionally good, but it makes me feel really good and relaxed when I play it and sometimes I actually create some really chill energetic grooves. Well recently I saw some RUclips videos on the Roland E-4, J-6, and T-8 and I just had to have them. They totally appealed to my computer nerdy side, and I am a huge fan of EDM anyways, have been since the 90's. So I did purchase them. I didn't really need the E-4, but it fills in a hole in music creation process; like Liam mentioned, so I bought it just in case. I have enjoyed improvising with them but so far my grooves on the CBG have been more successful. But I am not giving up. Recently (this week) after seeing more RUclips videos, because they always pop up in the suggested stream, I went on eBay and scored a used OP-1. It also totally appeals to my EDM nerdliness and I look forward to putting a bunch of time into it as well as my other instruments. Hopefully I will stop at this point, but all those darn synth's and sequencers, and loopers look so fricking awesome. Is there a 12 step program for this? I think I need it already....I blame all of this on Look Mum No Computer because he makes music with all kinds of strange stuff and that so peaked my interest in doing the same. Not that I can, but I am really trying....
By the sound of it all I can say is good luck to your wallet but also have fun with it!
I look at it like this. I've been addicted to drugs, distractions, food, really all kinds of stuff. I'm sure many people have. Like many people I've spent a long time coming to grips with my own behaviors
and habits.
When I buy something due to my GAS, I am definitely being naughty. Out of control. I'm not rich but my studio is, which is bad for me financially of course.
But here's the thing, the one fact that makes GAS the best type of addiction:
you spend 5k on blow, you lose 5k and wake up 3 days later with nothing but a hangover and a bunch of problems.
You spend 5k on GAS and you wake up with a nicer studio.
the true way to move forward with GAS is to adopt a DIY by any means necessary attitude and to learn to understand life is not about material wealth but love and creativity
That’s true you naughty boy
@@LiamKillen oh behave! before I buy again
GAS seems to get better with experience as you learn what you enjoy using and what you don't. For example, I thought I really enjoyed step sequencers, but I've found that I really prefer to play it by ear and record things live and tweak as necessary. I've also come to learned that I want to finish songs, not just jam live.
I've had an intense 18 months of discovery where I plowed through more hardware than I needed, luckily mostly second hand, so no real financial issue. Things like the Digitakt, Digitone, Pocket Operator, various midi controllers, the MPC One, the MC-101, etc. I've now learned what I truly appreciate and what I "need" vs want. Today, I'm happy with my MPC and a couple of synths: one analog (Minilogue XD) and one digital (Hydrasynth Explorer). I don't feel I need anything else. That said, I've made some upgrades along the way (Genelec 8010 > 8030, MPC One > MPC Live 2), but only after discovering what I truly enjoy.
If I could only have one device, I'd stick with my MPC.
I’m with about the MPC- it’s def up there in my workflow list.
Totally. I found out that my brain works like arturia synths and electron sequencing. The immediacy of sound design and quickly composing is made possible by their workflow. Minibrute 2s and m:c are a decent combination. I will say, abelton has been convincing me more and more that my keylab mkii is the best tool for me to work with that workflow. GAS had me buying lots of stuff I didn’t need, but did give me the chance to hone in on the target.
This can be applied to any hobby that is gear based. I’ve experienced this in photography a lot.
absolutely
Great guide especially for an old synth head such as me (is that even a thing? haha). Definite self-inflicted victim of GAS. I’m staring at synths of mine right now that need some more personal attention. Always great videos Liam.
Thanks for watching Kenny. It’s always good to re evaluate what you already own. Maybe take an adventure in your own synth yard so to speak 😂
i think this video is very important, gas = creativity killer
It’s all about finding that balance
@@LiamKillen big true. ive been focusing on the digitone alone for the past 9 months (its my first synth ever) and ive got to say this thing requires some serious brain
You made some solid points. Really interesting how this video came up when I was considering replacing my Volca FM1 with the FM2 but I think I want to learn it more deeply and truly get the most out of it before I consider replacing it. Those 6 voices on the FM2 are tempting though 😅
That’s so funny…you might be conflicted after my NEXT video which is about the FM2 lol
@@LiamKillen You got me intrigued, can't wait to see it hahaha
I'm a pawn shop troller. Just found an IK UNO. I've been waiting on Behringer to bring out the "NEW" stuff!.
Oh dope! UNO’s great!
The G.A.S is a real phenomenon.... ive gone through it, and after a while you soon realise, after all the gear purchased, the way forward is dependant on your goal!!
ive personally settled on a setup to give me the most creative/production/live approach(not that ive produced anything... rather im still integrating everything with that goal in mind
ive gone with X2 Maschine Jam midi controllers, a Maschine Mk2 &Mk1, FCB1010 and a behringer BCR2000 a audio interface & a 4770k PC... which is the basis of all the hardware i need
DAW software is Maschine/Reaper/VirtualDJ(free) and additionally routing software ive gone with is Voicemeter potato & Bomes midi translator
These purchases open all doors to music production and even for live use!! making all your hardware work together is where the Reaper Daw alongside Voicemeter/Bomes midi give you the best of everything!!
Your first point is so true- it always all depends 😂
This video came up when I was looking at vids about the Roland EMX-1 I just bought.🤣 Does nothing any of the "newer" gear I already own does. It was a 2am Reverb purchase after watching some live performances on YT. I still have 3 pieces of new gear in their box I haven't even opened...won't admit what they are to prevent online bullying. First step is admitting you have a problem.
The first step to recovery! 😂
This was such a well done video on this topic Liam, thank you so much for putting in the time to communicate these really well thought out points.
It’s my pleasure! Thank you for watching 😊
Another great walk through .. as always .. cheers to consistently making it all so helpful and easy ..
🍻 to you
God, the pain. It's so exciting and giddy to get more gear - literally just like CHRISTMAS opening stuff and setting it up and trying it out - but MASTERY IS HARD
it takes TIME and ENERGY to be an artist, a creator
and creators make art with ANYTHING
but it's so much easier just to enter credit card autofill & click "complete purchase" again to get that rush
Yeah there’s a balance there for sure.
Great video! It’s much needed after watching all of these namm videos.
Yeah good timing actually I didn’t think of that
What’s fascinating is how you can replace “synth” in this video with “guitar” or “effects pedal” and it hits exactly the same. 🙃
Yyyyup - or "camera equipment". It's like a human behaviour thing no matter what the product is.
I've been happy with the mpc X... Doesn't seem to be lacking in any department. The updates have been incredible... From a purely creative standpoint there's really no need to upgrade for quite a while especially when paired with VSTs. Get the X Liam 🤭
My bank account though 😢
@@LiamKillen it's a rare gem. Everyone's jumping on the live and one because affordability, but the Q links and connectivity... The workflow improvements... Sell a couple of things collecting dust and treat yourself to a centerpiece 💜
I’m a total beginner who just ordered an MPC ONE, what do you think is the best value/budget synth to use with an MPC? Is there better bang for my buck than an Arturia microfreak?
Thanks for making this.
Glad to help
So true... "more gear does not equal better music".
Also, more gear equals less playing. I played the most when all I had was a microbrute and a Big Muff. The more I added the less I played.
We see 👁 to 👁
@@LiamKillen yep. You get to a point where gear management /gear arrangement /setup consumes all your time.
Im building a house next year and will finally have a dedicated space for music. Im going to get all my gear (way less than yours) installed so that its all ready to play at any given time. I think that way will be much more conducive to creating.
Thank you for sharing this, especially the time management bit. Got alot out of this one
Glad to help 😊
GAS seems like a big thing in the music industry. I have to tell myself, you want to make better music then spend some time learning music theory and get better with existing tools.
Enjoying the OP-1 and Deluge combo. Eyeing the Digitone, but not sure if I would need it.
Music theory > gear
Yah, digitone would enhance your deluge/op1 combo with its superior synth engine. It's a bit less portable than the other two though.
Cheers!
On reflection hold off on that digitone and cram some counterpoint instead. (;
Playpm does Gas Therapy videos on RUclips, he's hilarious and it's always about what free setup you can do with you cheap laptop that does the same as a hardware groove box and is better because it's more powerful. I have a Cycles and yes the sequencer is tight but lately I just play it into my computer because it's better workflow honestly with what I do, which is matching grooves from songs I like (which I sample quickly using Blackhole server).
DAW always wins but also, PlayPM is a liiiittle disingenuous IMO.
Still he’s valuable for people just starting/wanting to do it for free/very cheap.
@@LiamKillen could you elaborate on how he’s disingenuous? you mean because he clearly owns a lot of the shit he bashes on?
My solution is to buy gear second hand and then sell when I buy. If you keep your gear well, the cost can be quite low. Especially if you're happy with trying older models out. For example the Push 1 is an absolute bargain now.
remember most gear sucks its ok to buy sample and sell and use a nice sequencer on the sample with some effect filters if only more people on freesound made cc0 public domain stuff of new synths
Oh hell yes
I really appreciate your acknowledgment and ownership of your roll in GAS-conomics, (freshly coined) so to speak. I don't think it's any reviewer's intention to stoke that flame, for the most part, but it is intrinsically connected. I'm giving recognition here because many reviewers don't acknowledge GAS and or their rolls in it so, kudos, or chocolate chip cookies or sushi to you. Maybe it's an uncomfortable feeling and people don't want to deal. Fine, no judgement but GAS is real and I think more reviewers should address the issue in a way that's... dare I say, resonant... with them since it is part of the synth community and some may actually need some real help.
Yeah it’s a very peculiar position to be in if I do say so myself.
This is a great video. Nice job! GAS sucks, just have to learn how to reign it in and make sure you watch out for overlap. That's how I operate anyway.
Finding that balance is always a struggle. Glad to help 😊
No no no if I just buy this one last thing I’ll start producing bangers! I swear it’s just this last piece of gear that I need.
😂
The fact that synths crank out with such high frequency is a sign that the consumer is overpaying for the product. Especially the digital products.
I dabble in EE, but am a programmer by trade, and I can tell you this. In the DIY synth arena, a lot of code is reused from project to project. I suspect that these companies are doing just that.
They're building these synthesizers off of forks and selling you the product at cost on the hardware.
Yeah there’s def some of that going on
I cured my GAS by having just two powerful devices -- a daw in a box, and one nice synth. Specifically, the Akai Force and a Sequential Pro 3. But really, any nice synth would work... or none at all. The Force (and some sort of midi keyboard, like a Keystep) is all I actually need.
As a side note, definitely check the manual and the web _before_ asking an enthusiast community for help. It's just basic netiquette.
Yeah my daw in a box is the MPC one at this point. I might experiment with the Hydrasynth as well 😏
The manual is usually my last resort because I’m more of a visual learner and in my experience RUclips is just much more informative, clear + hands on.
@@LiamKillen Yeah, the Hydrasynth is absolutely fantastic. MPC is pretty sweet too, and an amazing value. I went with Force instead though, because I prefer a clips+arranger workflow instead of patterns.
As for getting help, RUclips is great. With almost any topic though, the help process is:
1. Try to figure it out.
2. Look for info in already-existing materials from both users and the manufacturer... like the manual, videos, web search, old forum posts, etc.
3. Ask a human for help.
This generally works out best for everyone involved, minimizing the time required to get answers, while also minimizing the total amount of human effort spent.
Anyway, it's cool seeing videos like this lately -- on fighting GAS, and focusing on learning and creating instead of collecting.
my GAS isn't for instruments as much as it is for plugins and audio hardware. BUT I sub'd because I 1000% agree with the "master what you have today" idea. awesome video and I look forward to your other content. 👌🏾
I appreciate it! 🍻
Oh Liam. There are storage spaces in warehouses that you can rent to store all of your extra gear lol… 😃
That’ll get pricey lol
@@LiamKillen no doubt… hey on a side note where does one score one of these Rolland J-6s as shown at the start of your video?
speaking about syntakt, i already own the digitakt+digitone combo and i would REALLY love to try it out but man its even more expensive than the former two
I know! A lot of people think it’s worth it but if you’ve got digitakt + tone…do ya REALLY need it?
@@LiamKillen the logical move would be to sell the digitakt in favor of the syntakt lmao
My latest purchase due to GAS is the DirtyWave M8
I keep hearing about that thing 😏
RUclips is just a giant commercial at this point and these are the consequences of that transition to Brands influencing the influencers. If channels had to purchase everything on their own I'm sure it would be a better situation. Any person who says it does not influence their outlook on gear is lying to themselves and us. That always has an impact on you feel about something.
Channels will go crazy over something new that they got for free and you'll never hear about that gear again after the embargo. I like your channel because you revisit gear well after it was released and focus on certain strengths of that gear for a particular genre.
Also finding your voice does take a lot of buying and selling gear unfortunately. Lots of amateurs and pros go through countless guitars, violins, saxes over their lifetime etc. Just the nature of the beast.
Hey I appreciate you watching. BUT ALSO! We spoiled.
On day 1 we often have several in depth videos explaining exactly how a given synth works along with comparisons to others of its kind. For someone who’s done day one content it takes A LOT of time to figure out a machine from scratch + put together something that’s worthwhile watching- so I always appreciate that.
15 years ago you spent 3x as much for something you’d have to spend 5x longer to learn only to possibly find out that it’s not for you.
RUclips has made synths + electronic music accessible to everyone at a very low cost. The flip side is that yes to a certain extent it‘a being taken into more of a commercial direction and we’re overwhelmed with choice.
This is something that I’ve been rethinking myself in regards to this channel.
@@LiamKillen very true and yeah we are spoiled lol and you're making good music with whatever is in front of you so I think you're headed in the right direction.
It does bro! We all are under the influence… I had to get it under control.
That's actually not bad advice. I don't have as much gear as some people out here, but I find that even with me, I'm probably only through at most 50-60% of the functions each hardware synth/groovebox is capable of. I typically do months worth of research into what I need before I purchase something. And in that time, sometimes new gear appears which I haven't even considered. I wanted Behringer D-model, but then decided to go for Neutron instead. Wanted ASM Hydrasynth, but after months of examining better FM alternatives Kodamo Essence FM came up and I eventually went for it instead of Hydrasynth, newer FM Yamahas and Korg Opsix. Live playing, improvisations and jamming are very important to me though. I spend 70-80% of time doing that and only 10-20% putting tracks together.
Months! Ok you got it then
My biggest GAS problem is that the thing I really want just doesn't exist yet and all these products are all 95% what I want so I sell gear, by the new one, then I get frustrated over the 5% that isn't working for me, sell and then try something else :p
DAWLESS is a blessing and a curse in that way lol
I'll buy that Arturia 2s. I have they regular 2 but prefer the 2S.
It’s pretty dope 😏
I use the Minibrute 2 almost every day. What a great lead instrument!
The bass tones you can get outta that thing too 🔥
@@LiamKillen I'll set aside the time to learn my Minibrute 2S, JOIN ME!
You gotta use the minibrute 2s. I got one and it's amazing. I'm not even a synth guy, I just got it to do arps over my guitar stuff but I've played it more than I expected. ✌️
I knowwww!! I’m missing out
I've solved my GAS by having one thing that can do all the basics really well (novation summit) and the only other things i've kept are things that do specific things very well that i wanted (megaFM)
I haven’t touched the summit yet but everyone loves it
@@LiamKillen it’s a peak on steroids and it’s my favorite piece of machinery for sure even though I don’t always use it but it’s the only thing I’d really ~need~
I enjoyed this video. I'm subbed.
Thanks for being here! 🍻
I don’t suffer from this, but really feel for those who are stuck buying too much virtual gear especially
Yeah vst s are the worst cuz you can’t really resell them!
The (My) problem is in "affordable stuff". i had heavy photography GAS. I wanted something I couldn't afford (a Leica M Monochrom) and my terrible strategy was to make-do with cheaper stuff, leading to frustration, leading to GAS. I ended buying that Leica anyway with a 3 year payement plan. Never bought a camera ever again.
Same for music gear. Now I bought a Maschine+ (expensive), it does everything, I never wanted something similar ever gain. (My M+ does it too, and so much more, why would I want that ?). Every time I bought something cheap it ended up being a bad decision. unless it's cheap because it's underhyped old gear. Like my JV-880 I got for 100e. But I still want that Integra-7 :D.
It's biological "it's an investment, I need to make the most of it" vs "meh, sound fun/useable, I can probably do something with it (or not)".
I totally understand. I’m going through a phase now too where I’m focusing 100% solely on the high quality stuff- it’s more expensive but I think it makes a difference.
I've been a victim of GAS, but at the same time, I think I would not have known what gears inspire me if it were by trial and error. When I don't connect to a gear workflow, I resale it.
I’m about to have a resale soon…my room’s getting cluttered!
Is it bad I paused the video to see the brand of a device incase I wanted to buy it? Do I have GAS?
I came this close to buying yet another groovebox tonight. It's amazing how many "legitimate" excuses you can come up with to justify buying new gear.
Unless you’re someone who’s just interested in design / engineering, yeah you’re 100% right
@@LiamKillen But, and hear me out, here... If I was to buy another groovebox... And I'm not saying I am, would you go with the Polyend Play or the Deluge?
The Deluge seems like it is thinking out of the box and I've heard nothing but praise from literally everyone that's set their hands on one.
The Polyend Play looks very interesting too. Plus I could get a brand new one for less than a used Deluge.
My situation is that I bought a Digitone and I am really not feeling the workflow. It sounds fucking incredible though. I want to get into FM synthesis but I'm finding it hard to get motivated to even play this thing.
Also, I should mention that I have two grooveboxes already: a 707 and a 101. I love the Roland workflow. I love just about everything about these little guys. The Elektron is just the complete opposite though. I'm not one of those "limitations sparks creativity" guys. For as bad ass as this little synth is, I think that if I want to lay a kick and a high hat down on one step, I should be able to lay a kick and a high hat down on the same step without doing workarounds.
I'm over it, after buying a shit ton of machines :p
Hardware is the key to stop software gas.
Now, i'm doing fine without gas.
I get hooked sometimes still lol
The only gear I have ever had is... my laptop, wich is not even a gear per se. But this video is way good. I do think that I would spend lots of money in gear, if they did not cost 10 times their real price when it comes to importing them back here....
My friend was just telling me about Costa Rica and how the shipping system there just sucks
Stop feeling quilty and use it until it's time to sale, it's a a journey. I've been doing this since 1987. ENJOY
🍻
I have blown gas. Sacrificed time, food, resources, relationships, my sanity and dreams over gear. Never go modular. NOT EVEN ONCE. hahaha
May peace be with you
@@LiamKillen Pieces of gear to you too haha
Thanks a lot ! excellent and useful video ! I spent so much time trying to fix issues with Cubase so I almost didn't try to make music over the last 3 to 6 months...as a matter of fact, there are many tools I discovered on Garage Band and free I-Pad apps , I'm trying to clarify my needs...
actually, I just managed to build a stand to simplify my gear use, I have another one to build to have physically something comfortable to use...
then I will see what I need. I might need a Arturia Beat Step to bring together my gear. I have a Kurzweil SP4-8, a Behringer DeepMind 12, a Novation Bass Station 2, a Roli Seabord and an Alesis SR18 drum machine (that I don't know how to use optimally).
But I also use a lot Garage Band and free i-pad applications that are pretty good.
However GAS is not only about what you need but also about what toy you're dreaming of...and can reasonably afford it.
If I could, GAS would make me get Kurzweil K3700, Oberheim OBX 8, Moog subsequent 37, AKAI Professional MPC X , Pittsburgh East Beast and West Pest, Waldorff iridium, Hammond Organ and the newest Rhodes EP. and also i'm attracted to the Roland Integra 7
Glad to help! I appreciate you watching
Interesting video. I thought a lot about what is the minimum viable set up to achieve the sound I want. I wanted a very flexible sequencer (deluge) a cheap but deep synth (microfreak) and a module that could operate as FX/inspiration/mastering chain (404Mk2). Gotta manage the GAS!
You can do a lot with just that!!
Those features are almost all in deluge itself. Of course then the limits to sound and workflows are there but synths, sampling and effects are doable in Deluge. I use sometimes my old drumbrute for separate drum tweaking and monologue for instant leads. I route those gear through delude so i dont need even a mixer. I havent even played much with sampling yet. Im though in hobbyist / beginner level on synths. GAS hits me quite often as well.
@@Vaari80 I agrée and the deluge is amazing - I could probably drop the microfreak and not feel a loss but the 404s ability to make things sound rich and deep and complex is second to none
just re-fi'd the house to put a down payment on a op-1 field, am I the problem??
😂 the GAS be real
MPC One is all I need. It does everything I need it to. AraabMuzik uses an MPC 2500 only to work his insanity. So it's all about the man behind the machine and having tons of gear doesn't make a better producer. It's a proven fact.
You’re absolutely right.
I love how your video basically just shows off a bunch of synths to feed our GAS. :P
I’m testing your strength lol
But at the same time it’s okay to buy gear. It’s just about knowing when it might just be getting in your way
@@LiamKillen My GAS has primarily been focused on older gear. As someone still new to this whole game, it's been a whirlwind of discovery to explore different pieces of equipment. I absolutely love to thrift and so finding fun and funky gear has been a real treat.
While some are investing in crypto, my current currency is classic keyboards.
@@unclebuttonz7865 Same here! Me at parties "My crypto portfolio? I have not invested. Now, my synthesizer collection is a hearty portfolio!" :P
@@FetzAV absolutely!
Id love to help you out with that minibrute 2s! I can DM you some photos of patches (since it has no patch memory) I use mine mainly for bass but it works well for leaves and arps!
Great great points. I agree. I have enough synths but I keep getting pulled in by companies for the next thing. I havent pulled the trigger on most things because I feel like the gaps in my sound for dawless jamming are filled.
I feel like Ill eventually cave and pick up 2 more volcas but yeah, I have to stop and ask myself if I need them? are they filling a gap? Can I replace my old gear for the new gear?
Edit: I have a Microfreak, Volca FM, Volca Bass, Circuit Tracks, NTS-1 and the PO-133.
That’s exactly it! These questions are answered overtime with more and more experience. It’s really a personal thing but I suggest to try and avoid overlap!
I was all set with gear. Felt guilty for all the stuff I bought. Didn't want anything more. Then the SP404 mk2 came out.
I know the feeling
I got into DIY eurorack synths which allows gas, but is cheaper. Though patience and time is needed to make the synths which is fun. So I don’t feel so guilty because I’m not spending much money.
Yeah there’s a lot of buying/selling there though lots of reinvestment
Very relatable and I appreciate it. Great job
Glad to help 🤝
I must admit it... I'm a GAS ill. Always thinking " The more, the better " 😵💫
Be careful with that!
Good video dude. A lot of common sense here, but it needed to be said out loud.
Sometimes it bares repeating too 😂
you could at least have sugar coated it somewhat.. 😂 great vid.. actually helped me to put some perspective into what I'm doing with my gear and gas..
Glad to help
How would you recommend learning about chords, melody, harmony, etc. for someone with no musical training? I feel comfortable programming drum patterns and designing sounds but I always dread trying to come up with chord sequences or (especially) making sure two instruments are in tune with each other!
I would suggest working with samples or hitting up RUclips + related forums for theory knowledge
if you use Maschine or Ableton you have chord mode, midi chords packs (don't lol) and a last resort is a theory board (more gear ;) )
Andrew Huang has a video about it:
ruclips.net/video/rgaTLrZGlk0/видео.html
aLSO: ruclips.net/video/pjSYzac_nfk/видео.html
hmm. this kinda seems like an ad too? I started to gas for at least an OP1 or 404Mk2 just from watching this. The images are so strong. Playpm’s channel really is gas therapy.
Yeah I have a nice cam- no it’s not an ad lol That would be a conflict of interest for all the synth companies I mentioned.
PlayPM is cool for sure. I like his concept BUT! He is disingenuous with his comparisons sometimes. Still, a solid work around looking for ways around expensive hardware.
I was actually thinking of making response videos to some of his to clarify specifically where he’s being disingenuous.
@@LiamKillen I like that notion- having an open forum like this is the better future for youtube that folks like you and pm can contribute too. I would certainly watch that.
@@LiamKillen also i’ve asked playpm to make a GAS therapy for a Soma Pulsar23 and or a DSI Tempest to which the reply was that they do not own one and so wouldn’t be able to reproduce it in garageband/ or other “free” daw :(
I gotta admit, I’ve fallen victim to GAS. I did manage to pick up a UDO Super 6 at random. Super risky given how much they are, but man I lucked out. On the other hand, I bought an OP-1 that is pretty much a dust trap at this point. I only bought it because I rarely ever heard anything bad about it. I guess I just don’t gel with it, and turned out to be an expensive mistake of GAS.
Sell that puppy
@@LiamKillen with the OP-1 field, I think a lot of folks will want the OG at a good price. I do however very much dig my OP-Z. Great for long flights.
can you make a song with the lyrics “let’s go brandon?”
😂
What is the best value synth for a beginner who just ordered an MPC one?
I always suggest microfreak but it really depends on what you’re trying to do
I think the cure for synth gas is to just purchase a single synth which is the Moog One 16 voice model. Just need an extra $9000 😥
It’s impossible not to want more lol
@@LiamKillen unfortunately you speak the truth😁
Pretty much what I'm dealing with these days, as a hobby no less! I feel like weaknesses in my understanding of music are causing me to hit a wall very quickly with these devices. At least I've come to the realization that yet another synth has no chance of making me any better at making music, so the hype around SP-404, Syntakt, Roland E-4/J-6/T-8, Sonicware Liven XFM seem to be bouncing off of me without stirring up too much GAS. I am finding that YT videos are really a mixed bag, some are too elementary and the end products are uninspiring at best, while in others the demonstrator FLIES through the keystrokes on the device and you have no chance of following or understanding what you just watched. There are lots of good performance vids, I wish I could narrow the gap between my newby understanding and even half the ability of RMR, Gabe Miller or Freebeat, but I'll keep plugging along. Good luck, everyone, have fun and take a deep breath or 1000 before spending your hard-earned cash on the latest release from XYZ Syntho-matic Corp's Analog Digital Groovebox Sampler Music Machine with optional vacuum attachments!
I’m taking all of this into consideration for a future video. Thank you for this!
All I heard him saying was "go out and buy whatever you want whenever you want." That was the message he was trying to convey, correct? 😁
Well obviously you can do whatever you want! I’m making suggestions/pointing people into directions and explaining GAS from my perspective as an experienced synth user.
I suggest using the chapters/topics if you’re looking for something a little more specific than just “go out and buy whatever you want whenever you want” 🍻
@@LiamKillen I was joking.
Mpc is the way
😏
The chip shortage gave me time to reflect on whether the products on my wishlist were actually NEEDED and ended up with just a couple of items and none of them were urgent. Instead I decided to put more time into the gear I've already got.
That’s exactly what I’m trying to do at this point.
Manual is last resort? I love the manual, but I use the deluge a lot, so...
I find the manual is never as informative/clear as YT videos- maybe that’s just not how my brain works
What do you think about the Alesis SR18 ? I bought it because of the great reviews, but i'm not convinced ...maybe I should have bought Arturia Drumbrute instead? what do you think ? I try to play ambient music (i love shine on you crazy diamond, also listen to Klaus Schulze) jazz standards (The shadow of your smile is my fav tune) , french songs (Et si tu n'existais pas, Joe Dassin. Je reviens te chercher, Gilbert Becaud) , Latino american songs (malaguena Salerosa, Besa Me, Historia de un Amor) and some Beatles songs (eleanor Rigby)
I don’t know much about the Alesia but the Drumbrute Impact is hella solid. A few things you might wanna know:
ruclips.net/video/G8rkT3qQqK4/видео.html
Great video, I subscribed!
Appreciate that! Cheers
2 303 clones(td-3) one moog clone(model d) and a roland drum machine. and a microfreak just cuz.
Mivcrofreak is affordable AF- great choice
@@LiamKillen it's also pretty intuitive compared to the minimoog
The NEW Nina motorized 12 voice pollysynth is coming!
🤯
@@LiamKillen lol
You didn’t‘ explore MC-707? Do it, you will be surprised! I will never sell it.
Me neither! It’s one I haven’t gotten around to yet honestly…mostly because of the lack of ACB- what a bummer.
Do you have anything to synthesize analog percussion? This was the reason for me to pick up the Syntakt (before release I was GASing on the RYTM), maybe it could be for you too? 😈
The Drumbrute impact 😏
I’m gassing on the analog rhythm as well though heh
My GAS with the RYTM started as I was trying it out casually in a shop and had a pretty deep groove going after just a few minutes. The four analog tracks of the Syntakt did that job equally well and the 8 „additional“ digital voices are a very warm welcomed „bonus“ 😅
Never had a drumbrute under my fingers, so no clue, how this thing would get the groove for me going. Just saying that the analog drums on the Elektron boxes sound equally groovy to me
I thought this video was about the insanely high gas prices…
That too though