Apparently the audio from my PO-20 didn't make it into the video, so check out this awesome demo from Ben Burnes instead! ruclips.net/video/ztXXkF0HgRM/видео.html
Volcas are great to begin in this journey but in my experience they were sold after a couple of years. Personally I think that PO's are not as replaceable as the Volcas. Once I got bigger synths/drum machines the Volcas were not used at all. The sounds of the PO's are unique, they are always fun to play and are the most portable/affordable electronic music devices on earth at this moment.
Definitely. I get that. Although I've never touched a Po. Although I haven't tried myself yet. I have the sample 2, and FM. And from what I've seen. You can load's different patches on them. I haven't touched a synthesizer since the good old days. Had to get rid of them to pay my rent as a young team, JP8000, mc303, CS1X 😭. Trying to get my kids into them now. Got a couple volcas. Got a circuit, monologue, electribe, keystep 37 and beatstep pro and a couple other bits. So keep bringing on the top tips Bro 👊💪👏🔥🔥🔥
Yeah it's going to be a little bit different for everybody. Both product lines just seem to be such a common starting place for most folks, which is why I think the question pops up a lot. Either way they are excellent building blocks for setup!
Absolutely, which is why I felt the need to mention it. One or two pocket operators is a great place to start, but once you start looking at more you should also branch out and examine all your options!
The PO-33 knockout is the best stand alone piece of gear. The PO makes working with samples fun and easy. Every other sampler I have makes sampling feel like tedious work.
For me the greatest thing about the Pocket Operators is the portability. I can use one sitting (or standing) anywhere. I sometimes just lie on the couch sequencing beats because it’s so small and easy to use. I can toss one (or two, or three) in my bag and travel with them easily. POrtable. ;)
The po 33 is the best starting point. You can sample synths or anything else from RUclips and sequence everything together. From there, you can start adding on. Volca sample is cool too, but the process of needing a computer to load samples is a definite hinderance. Might as well use a daw for all that.
Yeah it's pretty amazing how much teenage engineering packed into the 33. Anyone who is interested in getting started in sampling is lucky to have a $90 device that does so much and provide so much educational value as well!
I love the look of the Volca Drum and it’s endless sound sculpting, the Volca Sample for its versatility and the Volca Kick for its ridiculous MS-20 filter. But that’s three separate boxes, so it’s a nope for me. The PO-35/PO-137 is that little gem and there’s nothing else like it, best electronic sampler & drum machine ever invented!
I bought almost all the pocket operator's. No regrets. I bought the volca drum..wished i hadn't. Hes right about the edjucation value of the volca's. However, if you really want to learn about synthesis, save up 250 and buy the micro freak
Sorry to hear you don't like the drum! The micro freak is a great synth as well, just a little pricey to be a first choice for a beginner in my opinion.
I started with Volcas and over time have found myself selling them and buying Pocket Operators. Smaller, better on batteries. I love the Volcas and still have the Bass and Sample 2 but they don't get used much. The fact I can sample directly Into my PO33 KO and edit samples on the fly makes the Volca Sample 2 almost redundant because, well, you can't do it on that. Also the pattern chaining and effects on the Pocket Operators make them more fun to play around on and easier to build a small track. But I do have a soft spot for Volcas.
It's better to star with... A crave ! Honestly tho, PO was my introduction to electronic hardware, which I hated before, and I think the volcas are completely another thing that a crave does better
I just went to the Teenage Engineering website and discovered that they have raised the prices of all POs by $10! (except the PO-24....that one is still $49). Funny to me that they would do that. Usually older tech goes DOWN in price over time.
I don't actually think you should neccessarilly 'start' with either. Sure they're affordable, and I'm sure these companies consider the entry-level market when making them - but I think they're best when supplementing a setup - they're great hole-fillers, or portable live devices for introducing different flavours. As useful as these tools can be I think that the inevitable path for anyone starting out is going to be one of either frustration or replacement. If you're keen on going DAWless then I think starting with a solid groovebox or workhorse synth makes a lot more sense. Something you invest in and get to know and love and that becomes the heart of your setup. I see this approach as a bit of a false economy and in some cases might even turn some people off music production.
what would you pick between po tonic and volca drum ? im looking for a cheap synth drum modelling unit and i got a dilemna between those two, i love tonic for its punch and im scared that volca doesnt really sound like that, yet volca on the other side seem to be capable of real nice flexibility of accents and dynamics do you think po tonic is far away in flexibilty of sound design from volca ? what do yall think ?
If you have access to a computer I would probably pick the PO-32 alongside the microtonic software. The software is how you design your custom kits for the PO-32. Otherwise I would take the volca drum.
I’d throw the Modal Electronics CraftSynth 2.0 in as being right up there with the Volcas as a starter synth. 150 bucks, full control from the front panel or app/pc, two oscillator wave table synth with an analog-like workflow, arpeggiator, MIDI I/O as well as sync I/O, blah, blah, blah. It’s the best $150 I’ve spent in a long, long time.
One thing I forgot to mention is that the CraftSynth can be easily integrated into a computer-based setup, should someone decide that they ultimately want to go with a DAW. The app is also available as a VST3 or AU plug-in.
@M Edward Borasky Yup. I mentioned the CraftSynth specifically because it's the same price as most of the Volcas, and gives an excellent introduction to synthesis without a lot of hassle and expense. I've got both, and absolutely love the sounds from both. The CraftSynth can make some great mellow basses, and screaming leads, or about anything in between. If you're creative, you can even get "pad-ish" sounds out of it. With 2 oscillators and the detune/spread capabilities, you can actually get a result that's pseudo 4 voices -- depending on the spread and detune amounts, you can actually get chords. As for the Skulpt SE, I think Modal really hit it out of the park with that. Starsky Carr did a comparison of the Skulpt virtual-analog waveforms against an OB-6 analog, and you can't hear a difference, and looking on a scope, you almost can't even "see" a difference.
So if i want to start learning, from scratch, with no knowledge of electronic music production, how to produce dark techno / acid techno / minimal techno / breakbeat etc it would be better to go with the 2 volcas?
Are you familiar with sequencing at all? It might be beneficial to go for a PO-33 AND a Volca, so you can design your own sounds and then sample them into the PO.
@@FreeBeat Thanks! : ) I want to start with the Behringer's synths. I'll wait for the Proton to be released. And I also want to get TD-3-MO. I'll need a drum machine for them and I was looking at RD-6, but may be the Volca Drum is the better choice for that? It can do anything the Behringer RD-6 can do , right,? And much more on top of that.
If I could start all over I’d get the MicroFreak and then an NTS-1, then start looking at the PO Tonic and then the PO KO. The POs are amazing. The fact that you can enter 16x 16 step patterns, and then programme them to play in any order is incredible for the size of the device. If you are really on a tight budget, then I would highly recommend the PO Sub, one of the first gen’ POs, it’s very easy to use, has an intuitive work flow and has two lots of FXs which can be used at the same time …that’s something like 280+ combinations of alteration to your sequences!!!
@@rasterweb Yea it’s really good. I wanted it for lead bass, or for the occasional fwompf! It lends itself to acid as well, all be it generally at the more bouncy end of the spectrum. It’s got me thinking of picking up a Robot and a Rhythm as well. I’d rather have a Robot as the Mega-Man variant doesn’t really float my boat. Do you have either of these?
@@gapster77 So far I've got the Rhythm, Sub, and Office. The Rhythm is also one of my favorites. I like the Office because it's a good challenge to create something on it. I don't know which one I would get next at this point.
Yeah the pocket operator is really have unmatched value if you want to start learning how to piece songs together. Like you said, the pattern sequencer is pretty powerful for the price :)
LoL, I started with some POs and a Volca FM, because I wanted to learn the complicated sound design for not a lot of money. (And the possibility of loading any old DX7 preset I could get my hands on)
As far as the PO's go: is the tonic the closest thing to a groovebox for under 100 bucks? I am really excited for the new roland t8 beat machine groovebox, but under 200 bucks.
Volca keys forever ❤️ I fell in love with this magic box 8 months ago, believe me it's true and deep love. Pair it with a keystep (vk is key velocity capable!), a good and versatile pedal (ms70cdr in my case), just start loving it (him? her? lol)
Srry, but i do not think you do the PO-14 and 16 justice here, especially the 16 can do things the po-28 , its counterpart, cannot do when one is interested in composing melodies ..
from my point of view: start with a PO. I just decided to get the Volca Drum and it says: available in 12-15 weeks on 8 store websites LOL timing is everything, as you know being a drummer :-)
The po33 is more intuitive than the volca sample. It can record via mic and line in. The volca sample is just a player wich needs the librarian software. For all the other tasks, the volcas sound better, have midi in and a better sequencer.
Yeah, as cheap as the pocket operators are it's easy to find yourself quickly collecting four or five of them. Starting with one or two is a great place to start, but at that point it's definitely worth it to check out other options!
Yeah it really depends on what you're after I think. I could see the keys being an excellent introduction to the basis of subtractive synthesis, but something like the FM would be super intimidating!
I love these things i have several that I've collected but when it comes to making music now days it seems to be going the way of software it can make even the expensive synths look like over priced toys
disagree, better to start with a free software synth like dexed and a free or cheap DAW like cakewalk or reaper and not buy any hardware at all. Then you can skip all of these tiny boxes and go straight to something with more future capability than these boxes.
@Free Beat - I hear you but I think for beginners figuring out if this is something they want to do at all is something they can do completely free with software. Their first $100 might be better spent on a little midi controller like an arturia mini lab or whatever akai has of comparable size these days. They might use that basically forever. i started with the PO-20 arcade and looking back it was a poor introduction.
@@randommcranderson5155 A midi controller is also a great starting point. However, the question I keep getting asked is POs or Volcas. So that's the question I answered. Honestly, none of them are bad options.
Man, I honestly don’t know. I’ve got a full studio one license and experience in working with a DAW, But I still have so much more FUN working with little hardware synths. My go tos are the microfreak, a PO32, and an OP-Z. I’m a guitar player first and foremost, so Maybe that colors my perception
Apparently the audio from my PO-20 didn't make it into the video, so check out this awesome demo from Ben Burnes instead!
ruclips.net/video/ztXXkF0HgRM/видео.html
Volcas are great to begin in this journey but in my experience they were sold after a couple of years. Personally I think that PO's are not as replaceable as the Volcas. Once I got bigger synths/drum machines the Volcas were not used at all. The sounds of the PO's are unique, they are always fun to play and are the most portable/affordable electronic music devices on earth at this moment.
Definitely. I get that. Although I've never touched a Po. Although I haven't tried myself yet. I have the sample 2, and FM. And from what I've seen. You can load's different patches on them.
I haven't touched a synthesizer since the good old days. Had to get rid of them to pay my rent as a young team, JP8000, mc303, CS1X 😭. Trying to get my kids into them now. Got a couple volcas. Got a circuit, monologue, electribe, keystep 37 and beatstep pro and a couple other bits. So keep bringing on the top tips Bro 👊💪👏🔥🔥🔥
Yeah it's going to be a little bit different for everybody. Both product lines just seem to be such a common starting place for most folks, which is why I think the question pops up a lot. Either way they are excellent building blocks for setup!
Except for volcadrum thing is surprising and has a little mojo of the monomachine.
9:36 indeed, for the price of everything on the table you could also get f.e. An MPC one, or OP-Z.
Yes! :D But the Pocket Operators are so cute and you can take them anywhere in your pocket! :)
Absolutely, which is why I felt the need to mention it. One or two pocket operators is a great place to start, but once you start looking at more you should also branch out and examine all your options!
The PO-33 knockout is the best stand alone piece of gear. The PO makes working with samples fun and easy. Every other sampler I have makes sampling feel like tedious work.
Yeah honestly for the price it's crazy how much value it gives you. Best way to get into sampling by far!
I want to get one just to easily prep samples for my "better" samplers, instead of going through their editing process.
For me the greatest thing about the Pocket Operators is the portability. I can use one sitting (or standing) anywhere. I sometimes just lie on the couch sequencing beats because it’s so small and easy to use. I can toss one (or two, or three) in my bag and travel with them easily. POrtable. ;)
Definitely, you can make music anywhere!
The po 33 is the best starting point. You can sample synths or anything else from RUclips and sequence everything together. From there, you can start adding on. Volca sample is cool too, but the process of needing a computer to load samples is a definite hinderance. Might as well use a daw for all that.
Yeah it's pretty amazing how much teenage engineering packed into the 33. Anyone who is interested in getting started in sampling is lucky to have a $90 device that does so much and provide so much educational value as well!
Yea, sampling on the vsample is quite a process. But what a kickass drum machine!
I recommend the circuit track as a first synth if any one can afford one. They are also portable like the PO
Definitely a great way to be introduced to programming drums, although I'm not sure if the synth side of the tracks would be ideal for a beginner.
I would start with a po 33 for sampling, a volca beat for rhythm and a volca keys for bass and lead. Maybe the FM for chords as the fourth gear.
That's a great setup for sure!
I love the look of the Volca Drum and it’s endless sound sculpting, the Volca Sample for its versatility and the Volca Kick for its ridiculous MS-20 filter. But that’s three separate boxes, so it’s a nope for me.
The PO-35/PO-137 is that little gem and there’s nothing else like it, best electronic sampler & drum machine ever invented!
Glad to see some love for the PO-35, it's one of my absolute favorites!
I bought almost all the pocket operator's. No regrets.
I bought the volca drum..wished i hadn't. Hes right about the edjucation value of the volca's.
However, if you really want to learn about synthesis, save up 250 and buy the micro freak
Sorry to hear you don't like the drum! The micro freak is a great synth as well, just a little pricey to be a first choice for a beginner in my opinion.
I absolutely agree on the Microfreak.
Now we are talking about good budget toys that everyone can start with and have fun.
I'd call these instruments over toys ;) thanks for watching!
I started with Volcas and over time have found myself selling them and buying Pocket Operators. Smaller, better on batteries. I love the Volcas and still have the Bass and Sample 2 but they don't get used much. The fact I can sample directly Into my PO33 KO and edit samples on the fly makes the Volca Sample 2 almost redundant because, well, you can't do it on that. Also the pattern chaining and effects on the Pocket Operators make them more fun to play around on and easier to build a small track. But I do have a soft spot for Volcas.
Love your take on it, thanks for sharing!
The best and most versatile combo imo is volca keys and po33 😎
Yeah there is definitely a lot you can do with just those two pieces of gear!
Even now with roland's new portable synth in the mix?
It's better to star with... A crave !
Honestly tho, PO was my introduction to electronic hardware, which I hated before, and I think the volcas are completely another thing that a crave does better
This video is just specifically talking about volcas against pocket operators. Thanks for watching!
I just went to the Teenage Engineering website and discovered that they have raised the prices of all POs by $10! (except the PO-24....that one is still $49). Funny to me that they would do that. Usually older tech goes DOWN in price over time.
Ouch that's pretty rough, glad the office is still holding strong at $49 though!
op 1 is old and keeps increasing haha
I don't actually think you should neccessarilly 'start' with either. Sure they're affordable, and I'm sure these companies consider the entry-level market when making them - but I think they're best when supplementing a setup - they're great hole-fillers, or portable live devices for introducing different flavours.
As useful as these tools can be I think that the inevitable path for anyone starting out is going to be one of either frustration or replacement. If you're keen on going DAWless then I think starting with a solid groovebox or workhorse synth makes a lot more sense. Something you invest in and get to know and love and that becomes the heart of your setup. I see this approach as a bit of a false economy and in some cases might even turn some people off music production.
This video was just specifically addressing the question of Volcas vs POs, since it's one that I get asked all the time :)
@@FreeBeat It's a great comparison/demo for sure and thanks for putting the video together - sorry for the diversion :)
what would you pick between po tonic and volca drum ? im looking for a cheap synth drum modelling unit and i got a dilemna between those two, i love tonic for its punch and im scared that volca doesnt really sound like that, yet volca on the other side seem to be capable of real nice flexibility of accents and dynamics
do you think po tonic is far away in flexibilty of sound design from volca ?
what do yall think ?
If you have access to a computer I would probably pick the PO-32 alongside the microtonic software. The software is how you design your custom kits for the PO-32. Otherwise I would take the volca drum.
@@FreeBeat thank you for responding , I appreciate your effort for answering to everyone, hats off sir
I’d throw the Modal Electronics CraftSynth 2.0 in as being right up there with the Volcas as a starter synth. 150 bucks, full control from the front panel or app/pc, two oscillator wave table synth with an analog-like workflow, arpeggiator, MIDI I/O as well as sync I/O, blah, blah, blah. It’s the best $150 I’ve spent in a long, long time.
One thing I forgot to mention is that the CraftSynth can be easily integrated into a computer-based setup, should someone decide that they ultimately want to go with a DAW. The app is also available as a VST3 or AU plug-in.
@M Edward Borasky Yup. I mentioned the CraftSynth specifically because it's the same price as most of the Volcas, and gives an excellent introduction to synthesis without a lot of hassle and expense. I've got both, and absolutely love the sounds from both.
The CraftSynth can make some great mellow basses, and screaming leads, or about anything in between. If you're creative, you can even get "pad-ish" sounds out of it. With 2 oscillators and the detune/spread capabilities, you can actually get a result that's pseudo 4 voices -- depending on the spread and detune amounts, you can actually get chords.
As for the Skulpt SE, I think Modal really hit it out of the park with that. Starsky Carr did a comparison of the Skulpt virtual-analog waveforms against an OB-6 analog, and you can't hear a difference, and looking on a scope, you almost can't even "see" a difference.
@M Edward Borasky Also, the CraftSynth does also have a 32-step arpeggiator/sequencer.
Oh yeah definitely. I just made this video to specifically address the Volcas and POs, since I get asked about them so often.
I just went all in for my first piece of gear and bought a Maschine Mk3; no regrets.
Awesome, glad you love it!
I like buttons, knobs, sliders and flashing lights, so Ill take both setups. 😁
Definitely a lot of fun!
Volca sample starts with a bit of everything at that price point
Also a good option for sampling, the only reason I didn't include it is because you need to use the computer to load samples.
What a question... of course Volcas!
Everyone's different!
So if i want to start learning, from scratch, with no knowledge of electronic music production, how to produce dark techno / acid techno / minimal techno / breakbeat etc it would be better to go with the 2 volcas?
Are you familiar with sequencing at all? It might be beneficial to go for a PO-33 AND a Volca, so you can design your own sounds and then sample them into the PO.
Thanks for the video! : ) Can the Korg Volca Drum be used as a sequencer for Behringer Neutron for example?
The Volca Drum doesn't have a MIDI out sadly, so no :(
@@FreeBeat Thanks! : ) I want to start with the Behringer's synths. I'll wait for the Proton to be released. And I also want to get TD-3-MO. I'll need a drum machine for them and I was looking at RD-6, but may be the Volca Drum is the better choice for that? It can do anything the Behringer RD-6 can do , right,? And much more on top of that.
Coming back to this years later, it’s hard to believe that the 30 series started at $90 at one point
Right? Such a killer deal
If I could start all over I’d get the MicroFreak and then an NTS-1, then start looking at the PO Tonic and then the PO KO.
The POs are amazing. The fact that you can enter 16x 16 step patterns, and then programme them to play in any order is incredible for the size of the device.
If you are really on a tight budget, then I would highly recommend the PO Sub, one of the first gen’ POs, it’s very easy to use, has an intuitive work flow and has two lots of FXs which can be used at the same time …that’s something like 280+ combinations of alteration to your sequences!!!
I was a little slow to like the Sub when I got it but now I love it! PO-14 can kick out some amazing sounds!
@@rasterweb Yea it’s really good. I wanted it for lead bass, or for the occasional fwompf! It lends itself to acid as well, all be it generally at the more bouncy end of the spectrum.
It’s got me thinking of picking up a Robot and a Rhythm as well. I’d rather have a Robot as the Mega-Man variant doesn’t really float my boat.
Do you have either of these?
@@gapster77 So far I've got the Rhythm, Sub, and Office. The Rhythm is also one of my favorites. I like the Office because it's a good challenge to create something on it. I don't know which one I would get next at this point.
Yeah the pocket operator is really have unmatched value if you want to start learning how to piece songs together. Like you said, the pattern sequencer is pretty powerful for the price :)
LoL, I started with some POs and a Volca FM, because I wanted to learn the complicated sound design for not a lot of money. (And the possibility of loading any old DX7 preset I could get my hands on)
As long as you were able to wrap your head around it and enjoyed the process then I'd say that's a great way to start!
As far as the PO's go: is the tonic the closest thing to a groovebox for under 100 bucks? I am really excited for the new roland t8 beat machine groovebox, but under 200 bucks.
The PO-33 actually IS a groovebox haha. It's a miniature 4 track sampler, you can make songs on it pretty easily :)
The po ko33 and the Roland t8 are really great for beginners
Volca keys forever ❤️ I fell in love with this magic box 8 months ago, believe me it's true and deep love. Pair it with a keystep (vk is key velocity capable!), a good and versatile pedal (ms70cdr in my case), just start loving it (him? her? lol)
Thanks for watching!
Srry, but i do not think you do the PO-14 and 16 justice here, especially the 16 can do things the po-28 , its counterpart, cannot do when one is interested in composing melodies ..
I do enjoy the PO-14, I just wouldn't recommend it for complete beginners as a first pocket operator, due to it's slightly more complex nature.
great video, helped me to make a decision and understand what I already have and really want to do 🙏
Great to hear!
from my point of view: start with a PO. I just decided to get the Volca Drum and it says: available in 12-15 weeks on 8 store websites LOL
timing is everything, as you know being a drummer :-)
Yes indeed haha. Hope your volca shows up before that, thanks for watching!
What would it be the best combination of volca to pair with the PO KO 33?
The po33 is more intuitive than the volca sample. It can record via mic and line in. The volca sample is just a player wich needs the librarian software. For all the other tasks, the volcas sound better, have midi in and a better sequencer.
Thanks for watching!
no audio on your po20 demo...got 3 of them (keys,fm and drum)...they're gr8 fun
Oops, totally messed that up haha. Thanks for the catch!
Oh thank god, I thought my hearing was getting worse. #NoAudio
Yea, same thaught... wooooowww just listen to that awsome sound...hmmm... 😄🤭
thanks dude interesting, tbh I was blown away by the volca fm it sounds so damn good! Much better than the roland mc 707 i had
Yeah the Volca FM is great!
My take is PO-20 first, but don't go crazy with too many PO:s. A Volca would be a good next step, but not necessarily the best one.
Yeah, as cheap as the pocket operators are it's easy to find yourself quickly collecting four or five of them. Starting with one or two is a great place to start, but at that point it's definitely worth it to check out other options!
Very good topic.☺👍 Absolutely suites me... own both and waing for my "drum" now...
Hope you have fun with it once it arrives!
I would take a po. The volcas are great but maybe to complicated for beginners.
Yeah it really depends on what you're after I think. I could see the keys being an excellent introduction to the basis of subtractive synthesis, but something like the FM would be super intimidating!
Ive never gotten good with sampling.
the POs sound didn't come through in your video
That combo is about the cost of a used Mac one🤔
Which combo?
All of the pocket operators and the two
Volcas👍🏽
I love these things i have several that I've collected but when it comes to making music now days it seems to be going the way of software it can make even the expensive synths look like over priced toys
Software is definitely incredible, but hardware will always have a special place in my heart.
Heh.... might have to revisit this topic when Behringer's Spirit line of mini synths start getting released. :)
Extremely hard to hear the "sound sample" of the PO. Almost no sound.
The answer is Volca Drum
Although PO's rocks
They all rock!
I couldnt hear the arcade when you played it.
Same here. Surprised there was no mention of that glitch in this video. 😂
GREAT! As allways... : )
Thanks so much!
Volcas are easier to use. And just look better.
Thanks for watching!
@@FreeBeat All day everyday
Lol the warning of addiction ha
Thanks for watching!
What kind of severe mental disorder combo results in buying P0s? :/
disagree, better to start with a free software synth like dexed and a free or cheap DAW like cakewalk or reaper and not buy any hardware at all. Then you can skip all of these tiny boxes and go straight to something with more future capability than these boxes.
Software is always good as well, but you know I keep it hardware based here at Free Beat 😎
@Free Beat - I hear you but I think for beginners figuring out if this is something they want to do at all is something they can do completely free with software. Their first $100 might be better spent on a little midi controller like an arturia mini lab or whatever akai has of comparable size these days. They might use that basically forever.
i started with the PO-20 arcade and looking back it was a poor introduction.
@@randommcranderson5155
A midi controller is also a great starting point. However, the question I keep getting asked is POs or Volcas. So that's the question I answered. Honestly, none of them are bad options.
It makes sense, but I prefer to go dawless and if at all possible, "screenless". That's why I decided to go for a volca keys as a starting point.
Man, I honestly don’t know. I’ve got a full studio one license and experience in working with a DAW, But I still have so much more FUN working with little hardware synths. My go tos are the microfreak, a PO32, and an OP-Z. I’m a guitar player first and foremost, so Maybe that colors my perception
The po ko33 and the Roland t8 are really great for beginners
Absolutely!