I sold my Wavestation SR rack after Korg released the VST. They sound identical for all practical musical purposes, and the editing is a breeze. Also the iPad version is great!
The WS has a certain feel on hardware that software usually falls short on. I suppose that if you had an expensive soundcard and fast computer it would be bette-r but there is something special about transistors and 80's DA converters. The "virtual VS: hardware" debate has been going on for some time!
The hardware has slightly sweeter preamps is all I think that we are hearing. Assuming that even something as simple as a light Sonic Maximiser plug in could fix this.
You can get used Wavestations down to $300 if you look, and are patient. But even if you cough up $500 for an EX in good quality, it will likely be worth it to you. Be patient in programming. Still, better than moving a mouse around on a computer for hours on end as I see it.
I@m the exact opposite, I'm glad I watched as now I don't want one, I remember using my mates VST one and not liking it, the hardware sounds better but think I'll go for an M1 instead
First off, many thanks Woody, for the accurate technical effort and fair unbiased attitude, which you generously pour into constructing these demanding synth comparison clips. As for the analysis' result, the hardware sounds often superior to my ears: more open, with a deeper stereo image, a stronger bottom end and a perceptibly silkier upper spectrum. As I am noticing more and more lately - with the upcoming vintage digital Renaissance the new obvious trend - each of those 1990s CPU/DSP-based architectures had an inherent sonic character, which I believe depends on two crucial technological features: 1] the kind of band limitation/anti-aliasing algorithms employed, that apparently bestowed a kind of a-la-JV 1080 warm saturation , 2] the specific quality and timbral coloration of the DA converters. We seem to forget, all too often, that a cleverly programmed synthesis code - running on a microprocessor - is just a part of that highly sophisticated machine called a digital synthesiser. Despite all the industrial advancements during the last 20-30 years, I consider highly unlikely that our average (albeit good and reliable) audio interfaces comprise the same degree of quality digital components once mounted in high-end professional products, like the Korg Wavestation AD. I believe that, finally, it is becoming evident how musical instruments based on numerical circuitry are much more challenging to replicate in plug-in format than it was thought at the onset of VST revolution (the Roland engineers committed with successfully recreating the D-50 in D-05 Boutique format - through some rather exoterical IC behaviour DSP programming - would certainly have a say in this matter!). I for me would gladly grab a real WS, in good shape and handled with care (which is the toughest part, in such second-hand retrieval endeavours). All best wishes, for your entertaining and excellent Internet content production.
My controller is a Yamaha SY22 (which I still use for sounds) and I'm happy to report that the vector joystick on it works pefectly with the Wavestation VST. Keep up the great work.
Sounded pretty indistinguishable to me. I listened on headphones and closed my eyes. Had to listen twice as your playing was so lovely I dropped off briefly. Beautiful job. 😍
I thought the same thing! Also to my ear - the watetables that are responsible for the higher frequency content/upper register sounds (percussion elements/transients/etc.) could be hotter in the VST compared to the OG hardware.. so maybe bringing down the volume of those specific elements/wavetables of the patches will help bringing back "dat warmff" in addition to playing with the LP filter!
Hi Woody, as one of the 6 who asked for this I wanted to say "Thanks for a great job". Both the hardware synth and the softsynth sounded lovely. I really fascinated by the soft synth but am still tempted to try to get hold of the real thing. I fell in love with this synth when it came out but could never afford one. Time moved on and it just had to analogue or samplers and it the wavestation faded out of thought. But now, 20 years or so later, and I feel the time is right... Thanks a bunch for doing this video. Really informative and helpful. Between you and BoBeats you are costing me a small fortune!
bidhendy Same here. My favorite Woody's videos are Wavestation videos. You should check out the one where he's playing the Wavestation outdoors at night.
Woody, great work on the videos. Thanks for the time you put in to them. Hardware has the edge a bit for me. Especially on the more complex layered sounds the Wavestation produces. Maybe it's a VST tweak needed. It's still a great VST version of the synth even so. Looking forward to the next upload.
The plugin sounds really harsh and flat compared the OG, particularly in the first patch. I had the SR as my first poly module in 93-94, and I sold it in about 2005, and those patches and names, brought back some lovely nostalgia. As an aside, does the plugin use the same fx settings on each patch? Great Video
Hearing this played brought back all the good vibes of PS1/PS2 & Phantasy Star music. Thanks for playing man. I so need to get a MIDI controller and a VST for this.
I use the VST and it makes great deep atmospheric sounds. Both sound great, almost matching. I do not feel such a sell-out using the software, for me it is to do with what is practical as its less space than the hardware. Thanks Woody.
The VSTi sounds a bit more excited (as if being put through an exciter) - a fabulous job from both - you, Sire and the software manufacturer! Now I badly want my Wavestation EX back, which I (plonker) sold back then. Glad, we can have it nowadays as a VSTi.
Thanks for making the effort to compare the two! I'll have to listen again with proper headphones to determine if I hear any differences. Keep up the good work! Cheers from the Netherlands
Something I would love to do, (just because why not), is tear open a hardware Wavestation, tap into the signal chain right before the DAC's, and feed that into a computer to analyze and compare with the VSTi version. Take a look at the raw waveform data both produce before conversion from the digital domain to analog. Might help to settle a question about these VSTi recreations of digital synths - is it an emulation somehow of the original code? As happens with classic video games? Or a true native port of the original software to a new architecture...
Gosh this synth sounds so amazing... And the plugin does too! Yes, you can hear a bit more high-end, frequency wise, on the VST version. But the sounds are almost just spot-on :). I get so much inspiration from listening to this synth, particularly on the more sequence loop sounds, like "Midnight Run". Great comparison video Woody! Keep it up :).
Very cool video Woodrow! I don't know if you're aware (it blows me away), the iOS iPad version is the exact same code as the Legacy VST. Seeing how well the VST performs here, one can have an iPad, the WaveStation app and a MIDI controller and get as close to a WaveStation as you can without buying the hardware. iOS apps have long been derided as toys or gimped versions of the desktop version but it's 2017 and iPad Pro specs rival or better what Mac Books had just a few short years ago. The iOS music format is for real and will amaze those who take the time to do some research. Now, I am biased because I am now committed to iOS music production as the center of my home studio. But look up the Auria Pro app, Cubasis 2, Patterning, Neo-Soul Keys Studio, etc. to see how powerful the apps have become. Korg realized this a few years ago and have aggressively built a knock out collection of their classic synths into iOS apps that frankly are easier to use than VST's thanks to the touch screen interface. The M1, the MS-20, the Mono/Poly, even the ARP Odyssey have been brought to iOS with the same coding/"guts" as the Legacy VST versions but for a fraction of the price. Recently the Gadget app created for iOS was brought to Mac OS and many are getting hep to what the format has to offer. I feel sooner than later more will flock to iOS music instruments & production and the price points will of course go up. If you have an iPad, jump in now and just get one app for $20-30 (the usual price range) and give it a whirl. I have no dog in the hunt, just an excitement for new ways to perform & create music. Sorry for the novella Woody, your video just set off a mass of thoughts...again well done brother.
I think the hardware had a slight bit more fullness and the software had a slight bit more sparkle and definition though both sounded quite good and usable. But I doubt many people would be able to tell you which was which if played 5 minutes apart. Extremely subtle, but there if you listen closely. That being said, if you are a player you'd most likely want the hardware version.
Hi Woody, better late than never. I just got me a Wavestation EX last weekend and i love it. What an amazing machine. I always wanted to add this one to my synthcollection. Thanks for the video😊
Fantastic comparison. Pretty close although I felt on the last example especially the hardware just sounded a lot more inviting to listen to. The VST suffers from being thinner with resonances sticking out (hardware is much more filled out and smooth).
I've just had a play with the Korg Collection V2 Wavestation demo version, and have come to see what others made of the comparison. I'm getting back into music recording, so I also liked the look of this Reaper audio editor. I could interchange my hardware Wavestation for this software version. It is a lot easier to get a close sounding soft synth, since the original Wavestation sounds were done in software. My Wavestation came with the ROM sounds copied to RAM1 and RAM 2 so it was great to hear all these other sounds. When I first listening to your sounds, I just turned the lights out, laid on the floor, shut my eyes and drifted, then rewatched to see you playing and see which synth was playing actually making the sound. To my ears I heard no discernbile differences. I also have one of the Wavestation's contemporaries, the Ensoniq SD1 (21 voice) from 1990/91, a very different instrument, but also aimed more at ambient and soundscapes.
Thanks Woody. You are a help to thousands who watch your vids. The vst Wavestation sounds fantastic. Random listing will show that this vst is every bit as useful and "good" as the hardware version. When we actually "own" the hardware we fall into a form of bias. But the sound here says it all. Thx Woody.
For those who can't afford to own (not only purchase but also enough room space and maintenance too) many of really iconic legendary hardware it is a great alternative! After watching your Korg VSTI videos I decided that definitely will buy Korg Collection bundle. Great job done, Woody! Thank you very much!
Thanks, Woody. I subbed because of these great WS videos! It's funny, but on some patches, the VST sounded better, and on others I'd vote for the hardware. I really couldn't choose definitively between the two.
I'm so glad Korg eventually got round to giving the M1 and Wavestation VSTs some much needed love. I'd feared that they'd all but abandoned the Legacy collection around the time you made this video. Thankfully they gave it a good shot in the arm with the new Tritons, Odyssey and others. I'm making myself sit down and record some preset playthroughs of the various VSTs in my collection, which I'll dump on one of my YT channels (probably @andthatsmytune) as and when I get around to them. I'm starting with Ultra Analog 3. I'll likely do the same with the Korg plugins. And later take individual patches and deconstruct and study them. I do find, even with the update, that the Wavestation is a bit awkward to program. (I kind of wish VST vendors would do both an old-school-vibe UI like e.g. Arturia do a lot, and a modern one which makes the DSP capabilities of the VST as easily accessible as possible, at the expense of being authentic to the original experience.)
5:34 That rhythmic sound is gorgeous. Would it be okay if I used that preset and/or chords to build a track out of? I would add my own flavor, of course, but I wanted to ask your permission before I go using your idea. Love your channel, Woody.
Really thankful for this. I used to adore these while I was in College. Only couple of bands having deep pockets here were able to put their hands on this. There's no place to get these used here so knowing of this vst was really something. Now I have both Wavestation & M1 vst and revisit old times (thanks to Woody). Only problem in Korg VSTs is their very small GUI that makes patches and settings hard to read.
I only own the vst and I'm glad it holds most of the stuff, considered that I payed it a few bucks! As many other people wrote, sometimes it's brighter but it could be easily filtered just a bit, perhaps Korg did it intentionally to give the vst a more modern feel. Some of the rythmic sequences are even better than the original! The wooshes, on the contrary, are less true to reality, and the original seems controllable more fluidly. In some vst replications, finally, the vst does not respond to midi/controller data very well, but this may be due to the fact that the original recorded midi data were played: I never experienced glitches in the vst, I think as a player that perhaps we adapt to the interface we have. Thank you much for sharing this precious information.
You really know how to play that WS Woody! Very Nice Demo! I think Korg did an awesome port over to the VST. Only the AD/DA Converters were noticeably different to me. Keep this up Woody, can't wait for more!
Great job Woody, outstanding, I'm awaiting a jv2080 with 3 sound cards to arrive and I own this Korg Legacy collection, just watched your 2080 shootout and now this, I think your making folks aware of the dynamite sounds and values these synths STILL have, your gonna push the prices up! Love your vids, greetings from far away Pearl River, NY, cheers buddy.
I was looking for a review of the VST Wavestation, so thank you Woody for making this great comparison video! To my ears, the software version is missing some "beef" and body, that's most likely coming from the audio converters in the hardware version. The VST is more transparent and you can better distinguish the instruments building the program, but this comes with a loss of "weight". Anyway, it is close enough.
@Woody Piano Shack ~ All converters have an inherent frequency curve. This is part of why different plugin manufacturers wind up with slightly different sounding emulations of hardware. Slate Digital uses a Lynx Hilo when they record samples to analyze, Universal Audio uses their old high end converters which were designed by the founder of Burl Audio. Etc. It's just like with Microphones, or different brands of Tape from way back in the day. So there's an "EQ" in place on the hardware due to the sound of it's DAC section, AND even the cable you're using will then impart some slight signature on the overall sound after the fact (I'm a mastering engineer, and I use three kinds of cable designs from different brands n my Patch Bay to slightly change the "EQ" of a master often, even if I don't patch in any hardware). I'm listening on some Prism Titan converters here...GREAT VIDEO. I'm absolutely sold on buying the Soft Synth. I think it's a higher resolution print of the original samples (so up-sampled probably), and without the character of original converters in the hardware. You even remove the sonics of cabling, and of course it's gonna be a bit clearer with more top end. Still you can use this video you made as a reference to build an EQ preset in the box to compensate if you want to "soften" the soft synth. The Tritons are lovely old boards, but I don't think I'll regret buying the VST. Thanks for doing this! = )
6:47 vs 7:24 The brass/trumpet ingredient seems slightly more present in the hardware version, there's a difference how it sounds on the attack compared to the vst version I think. 8:02 vs 8:30 On the hardware version I think the rhodes sound feels more "on top" of the metallic sound, while in the vst version it's more evenly mixed together and the metallic sound is more present, and it has a little boost in the lower bass (I prefer the hardware version). 8:57 vs 9:3910:34 vs 11:0011:13 vs 11:48 Maybe it's possible to add some eq to the vst version to bring it closer to the original..
Dear Woody, Thanks a lot for your amazing live demo! This is certainly one of the best demo i have ever seen in my lifetime. Great work. ...Ravi Kiran.
Many thanks for taking the time to post this Woody. While I preferred the sound of the original and would love to own one , I can happily live with the VST version as ably demoed in your vlog. The VST has the advantage of costing less, more widely available and more portable on a laptop / less bulky for the gigging musician starting out or playing small venues. Also, I have a small studio (you guessed it, a bedroom) I don't have the room for the hardware synth, and at my level of musicianship these are the sort of compromises you have to make. I'm sure if I were given the EX then my response would be quite different. Thanks again.
Bought the VST during one of those December deals. As a hobbyist it was convincing enough. But what really knocked it out of the park was the iOS version. I played some simple synth parts for a kids musical with many splits. Took a Nektar GX61 key controller, iConnectaudio 4+, and my iPhone (which I had anyways). Love the reaction when you tell the audiophiles that the whole thing was done on a phone. Awesome video, Woody. Keep it up!!!
Sorry, Woody! I meant to suggest that the convenience of the iOS version makes it a winner (especially for portability and reliability). Sound-wise, iOS and PC VST seem identical. Programming-wise, the PC VST is much easier, but then again, I'm using the iPhone 6S so there's not much screen room to work with and the GUI's for each version are completely different. Having said all of that, dropping the FXB file exported from the PC VST into iTunes and importing it into the iPhone is a fairly simple process. You can also work with SYSEX files thru iTunes. Thanks again, Woody, for these fantastic Wavestation videos. It was/is a really great synth and IMO Korg has done a really good job with the digital recreations. Best regards, from the island on the other side of the pond...
The M1 and Wavestation VST's were a revelation to me when they came out over ten years ago and they remain so today. Roland is catching up, . . But where is Yamaha? Why have they not made software versions of their own classic synths?
They are both software running on a computer. While Roland tried to be clever with the D50 emulation by using the same processor accuracy (modern CPU's have higher floating point precision) and probably modelling the DAC's I don't think Korg did this and I believe they used higher quality samples and a higher sample rate in their emulations. Sounds close enough though and the high end can be EQ'd to make it sound more like the original if you want.
I think it's more than DACs. The partials seem to gel better on the hardware. It's like the algorithms are just a little bit different in how they interpret the presets. Could probably be tweaked to within an EQ of each other, but that's kinda what you buy romplers for, isn't it? So someone else can do the sound design?
@@nickwallette6201 I'm not an expert in hardware, but i think the sound of the original is influenced by the saturation created by the hardware, maybe Korg did some software saturation on the VST. What i notice is the VST version has a lot more high frequencies. I would love to see the same comparison with an Frequency Analizer. Note: The VU meter is clipping, there is really no need to get the meter into the yellow/orange on digital recordings (on analog this gives saturation). Red means digital clipping.
Thanks for your hard work :o) I have this pack too and I love the sounds of the Wavestation! the bonus is all the cards are with it. Keep the videos coming, I always look forward to seeing them.
The software vst's sound is cleaner than the hardware which makes it sound louder, but it's a great comparison and very close. Great video as always Woody. Cheers and take care.
Well done comparison. I have read that former WS owners who now use the softsynth said that the vst generally sounds 90-95% like the hardware. This demo confirms it. As I own the Korg legacy collection, I've been thinking about getting the WS SR rack, but I agree with the people saying that the vst sounds close enough. Of course an A/B comparison reveals a difference, but that is less noticable when one uses the softsynth in a production. I'd say the difference between digital hardware synths and their emulations is not as big as the difference between analog synths and their emulations. So, in this case, the emulation is enough for my humble needs. For people playing live, the hardware with its slightly fuller sound makes more sense.
PS: it would be very nice if Korg did an update of the legacy collection, just like Arturia did with their stuff. A resizable GUI would be welcome, and sonic improvements too ;-)
I had a WS back in the day when they were new and I now have the VST. Put side by side like this I have to prefer the hardware version. I don't have the technical language to describe what I'm hearing. I'm tempted to use words like "brighter," "more full," and the very definitive "different." LOL That said, playing the VST on its own is fun, satisfying, and musical and I don't feel like I'm missing a thing. By itself with no comparison it sounds just like the real thing. Considering availability, cost, age of the hardware, the fact that you must lug the hardware around, the extended sounds of the VST, and the ease of programming/tweaking the VST, I'm very, very happy with it. I don't think I'd even want the hardware. But ... even having an XY pad, I really do miss that joystick. :)
Really enjoyed this. Those sounds brought back memories. Still have my Wavestation A/D. Been packed up for a long time but will probably use it again. But I'll definitely end up with the VST since I'd MUCH prefer editing there! Though the A/D has those inputs for vocoding, etc.
The frequency range of VST is seemed to be wider than hardware. It may be caused by old D/A convertor. I once owned Wavestation A/D from 1994 to 1998. Now I use VST.
All these hardware vs. Software or iOS apps audio comparisons are dependent on the computer audio interface or the iPad/iPhone output/interface setup. The audio spectrum of the computer or iOS device can be as good or better for so many soft synths, especially digital ones. The fidelity of samples in a 20-30 year old digital synth can't even touch a modern computer or tablet processor or bit rate. Sometimes that old school dirt does add to the final sound. They'll never sound exactly the same as the original but invest in a quality interface and your VSTs and apps will sound way better than just usable, but great in their own right. If you want width and warmth from your computers, run their outputs through a tube DI box. It's all relative. Not dissing Woody here. I think he explains clearly, the process of comparison and if there is any difference at all, it's only in this type of naked comparison. My hardware Wavestaions sound great, but the VSTs sound identical for all practical purposes when mixed with 12 tracks of drums, bass, 4 tracks of guitars and layered vocal harmonies. I would challenge anyone to tell me when I used a VST or when I recorded the hardware WS in a song.
its exactly the opposite , the hardware version has such a wider tone, better in high freq range and low freq range, the vsti plugin is def cute, but no match for the real-thing
but its no matter rly, in the end use what works for you! cant blame you t not use the hardware, it takes time to make sounds for it, alot of ppl just dont have the time to rly dig into it, its not exacly easy
This is really really close enough. And i am someone who always hears the difference immediately. Some patches are not exact, but in some cases i actually prefer the software version ! I always knew this was a special vst because i remember back when i started out this was one of my first softsynths, and i noticed that not only did it hit my ears how great it sounded, but i was instantly making music which sounded good from the get go. Can make entire pieces with this alone. I was making 'synthwave' with this longgg before they called it a genre ;)
Even though I discovered this video just now I have to say: Phantastic job! Great comparison between the hardware Wavestation and the VST-version. The third example - sound "Fire Dance" - is instant "Miami Vice" for me. The "Wave Sequences" are such a playfield. :)
Thank you for doing this Woody! I miss my Wavestation. I found the software reminds me more of the sound of the Wavestation SR; a little one space module that was released later that had tons of presets in lieu of a luxurious programming interface. Both the app and of course the software sound good. If people crave WS sounds and have an iPad, the app is great too. Get a camera connector kit and a Kronos will make a fine controller for the software. I miss the look and feel of the old hardware though.
I have the Legacy software, and I used to own a Wavestation SR. I felt the hardware sounded just a little richer and had a tad more depth, but it was very difficult to quantify the difference. So I sold it, an O1W/fd, a Karma, and an i3, and kept just a Triton-Rack, and an E-mu Morpheus. Everything else is software, which is just so good these days that it doesn't make sense to fill a room with boxes and cables when you can carry a mind-blowing studio in a laptop. How far we've come...
Another great review / comparison Woody. Korg sure seemed to have done a great job with the soft synth version... sounds plenty close enough for me. The Wavestation is definitely a standout (imo) among the seven or so instruments in the Collection. Anyway - thanks for another wonderful review. Great playing. Keep 'em coming!
Th WS is still a serious pad machine. The stacking and mapping and the morph/sequencing is so much fun. Soundtrack work ala Sunshine, Gravity and Vangelis stuff, this thing eats it up.
Hey Woody great job! As an owner of the Korg Legacy collection I was really interested to see this. Sometimes I think about getting a real wavestation but I wasn't sure if it would be worth it. The two sound very close. I did notice generally the hardware sounded a little warmer with a deeper and more solid sounding low end. If one were the add some eq boost and compression to the plugin however, this could be remedied perhaps. I plan to experiment a bit with that. Fun fact about the Wavestation. It was designed by Dave Smith for Korg and was based largely on his Prophet VS.
Loved all the Korg line of synths back in the day had DW8000, I have the M1 vst and use it heavy never checked out the WS but after hearing this video got to cop one of the vst's, thanks.
You are one of the best keyboard players/programmers I've ever seen, still learning how to program my Wavestation EX. My favorite keyboards of all times are the DX7 and M1. I hate that I sold my DX7. I appreciate your hard work!
Vektor Organ patch is the one patch that REALLY stood out to me more than the other patches. The hardware version jelled in a more natural way than the VST version. Otherwise the VST version worked rather well in many of these instances. From what I have read, the original samples for the Wavestation were recorded in 16bit/20khz, while the ROM versions were 12bit/11khz. This would explain a lot of the difference sonically.
Thanks for the info. I have the real one since 1990 and have done a lot of music using it. Im in love with it and will never ever part from it. Im really lucky cause now the VST is on sale for half the price (was not a week ago) so I bought it instantly! :)
P D Some nice playing by the Woodster. I spaced and drifted until the plugin came on, then it was back to analysis. The real Wavestation was so much more subtle. Thank you so much for this work!
I had the Korg Wavestation EX and SR, then years later bought the VSTi version and imho they sound very similar or at least the plugin is very close, maybe even a bit cleaner because of 16bit 44khz conversion for modern soundcards.
In 1994 I bought a rack version for a friend of mine who was abroad. I tested it for few days, and I'm pretty sure there was also a kind of vocoder embedded, and a mike input also. It is not said much about it, though.
Great playing Woody! The Wavestation is one of the best keyboards that Korg put out back in the day. I own the VST as well as the M1 and they are pretty great too. You got a new sub 😀
Hi Woody!! Thanks for another great video!! I really appreciate your attention to detail with your comparison videos. My ears are getting old, but if I had to make a guess, I'd say the VST sounds a little brighter and punchier. Both the hardware and the VST sound great though. Thanks for posting Woody!!
Thanks for this great comparison video. Though the overall sounds are very close, the hardware beats the software in minimal audible details. As many have commented, these differences would appear as unnoticed in a full track mix.
Excellent work BTW! Always wanted the comparison done since I own the VST (was on my old Win XP) but I've been looking the A/D rack version at a good price for years.
I still have my Wavestation EX but search a Softwareeditor/Saver...which works with Win10,too. I have just the old WaveStation SoundEditor 32bit v1.4 which works now not more, Is there a way to get it work again with Win10 ? Thanks for help end greetings from Andreas
Dear Woody, have you been producing a lot of new tracks with the lovely little synth? Would love to see some more of your music on youtube! Again the Wavestation swoops in and saves the day! Excellent soundcraft, and beautiful, mesmerizing feel.
Sound wise there really is not much in it. However the jamming on the physical instrument will take you places you would never go with a VST and a midi controller. It is like handling a mystical object. Inspires you.
+Greg Allen - I agree totally I came here because I love everything woody does incl his occasional rain dances. Know nxt to nothing about keyboards but I'm learning fast. Woody is unique on RUclips, highly educational, good player and owns some good fluffy toys
Agree completely Greg. There's an organic interaction that occurs with hardware, especially one you are deft at programming (dedicated knobs and sliders help!), that shapes your sound and style as a synthesist, and is much more freeing musically than any VST.
@@PhilAndersonOutside exactly, as one said above, there is some magic interaction happening between the instrument and musician player. It has some impact on your acting. VST is just a screen controlled by mouse, not your hands and fingers. From my experience, I did some compositions with keys and knobs, but can hardly perfom something from screen. And every different keyboard has different feel when you touch the keys....
@@PhilAndersonOutside yeah but you can get a high end controller with a better keyboard than the Korg, with knobs and sliders too. Let's not pretend this is an acoustic instrument...it's still cold digital just like the VST
@@HiredGoonage Yes. And in addition think of one that is easy on your eyes and fingers, one that really carries its own charachter, made with metal and some wood maybe... In my oppinion this, together with a computer, can feel like an instrument in is own rights.
I really had a hard time matching the wave sequences tempo to other devices such as my dw8000. It would be good to get the patch in the vast to tempo match first then send the patch to the synth. 😎
I've have a Wavestation from new, and upgraded it to the EX. Yes the software is 90-95% there...but I just can't bring myself to sell the keyboard. ( Different subject, but I wish Korg did their ipad odyssei as a plugin...)
That plugin was my first and so far still only experience with Korg Wavestation. I still do not have a Korg Modwave or Wavestate synth and sadly the Original Wavestation A/D is just too expensive and hard to find in the USA. Thank God for the plugin!
I am finding with all the plugin emulations, the sound tends to be a little brighter and thinner at times. And you also hear greater separation of the elements that comprise the sound. Hence I am experimenting with plugins after the VSTi to add a little "glue". I own both the wavestation SR and the software and am determined if I can to shed more hardware and improve my work flow. However only if I can get the sound within reasonable limits.
With the headphones, some of the sounds were a bit fuller with hardware and some sounds were cleaner with software. I couldn't tell the difference in real life. One way or the other, if you own it as hardware or software, you'll win. The playing and the sounds overall were fantastic :)
"... some of the sounds were a bit fuller with hardware ..." - It's the differences between the DAC's on the hardware WS, and the DAC's in the computer's audio card. Both are generating sound the same way - digitally, so before that analog output stage it's just numbers in computer memory.
To my ears the hardware sounds 'warmer' to my ears, but my guess is this could be EQ'd and probably wouldn't be noticeable in a final mix.... and that is only if my brain isn't playing tricks with me! I can remember hearing a Wavestation a few years ago, being sold comparatively cheaply, and I just thought it sounded dated and cheesy. Given a few years and while the sounds seem familiar my feelings are entirely different! The Wavestation now seems beautiful and embody an aesthetic of a certain time and feels very nostalgic and would be perfect for some pieces I want to work on. Unfortunately for me the market must also feel the same way and I suspect I'll be using the Korg Legacy version instead! Thanks for these comparison reviews, Woody. Either way I'm buying a Wavestation in some form and a D50/D550/D05. Roland and Korg should send you some T-Shirts (and more free gear)!
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I sold my Wavestation SR rack after Korg released the VST. They sound identical for all practical musical purposes, and the editing is a breeze. Also the iPad version is great!
I prefer the sound of the hardware but really what I learned from this video is now I want a Wavestation.
The WS has a certain feel on hardware that software usually falls short on. I suppose that if you had an expensive soundcard and fast computer it would be bette-r but there is something special about transistors and 80's DA converters. The "virtual VS: hardware" debate has been going on for some time!
The hardware has slightly sweeter preamps is all I think that we are hearing. Assuming that even something as simple as a light Sonic Maximiser plug in could fix this.
You can get used Wavestations down to $300 if you look, and are patient. But even if you cough up $500 for an EX in good quality, it will likely be worth it to you.
Be patient in programming. Still, better than moving a mouse around on a computer for hours on end as I see it.
I@m the exact opposite, I'm glad I watched as now I don't want one, I remember using my mates VST one and not liking it, the hardware sounds better but think I'll go for an M1 instead
@@briangreene7085 -- To each her/his own! Beauty is in the ear of the listener.
First off, many thanks Woody, for the accurate technical effort and fair unbiased attitude, which you generously pour into constructing these demanding synth comparison clips. As for the analysis' result, the hardware sounds often superior to my ears: more open, with a deeper stereo image, a stronger bottom end and a perceptibly silkier upper spectrum. As I am noticing more and more lately - with the upcoming vintage digital Renaissance the new obvious trend - each of those 1990s CPU/DSP-based architectures had an inherent sonic character, which I believe depends on two crucial technological features: 1] the kind of band limitation/anti-aliasing algorithms employed, that apparently bestowed a kind of a-la-JV 1080 warm saturation , 2] the specific quality and timbral coloration of the DA converters. We seem to forget, all too often, that a cleverly programmed synthesis code - running on a microprocessor - is just a part of that highly sophisticated machine called a digital synthesiser. Despite all the industrial advancements during the last 20-30 years, I consider highly unlikely that our average (albeit good and reliable) audio interfaces comprise the same degree of quality digital components once mounted in high-end professional products, like the Korg Wavestation AD. I believe that, finally, it is becoming evident how musical instruments based on numerical circuitry are much more challenging to replicate in plug-in format than it was thought at the onset of VST revolution (the Roland engineers committed with successfully recreating the D-50 in D-05 Boutique format - through some rather exoterical IC behaviour DSP programming - would certainly have a say in this matter!). I for me would gladly grab a real WS, in good shape and handled with care (which is the toughest part, in such second-hand retrieval endeavours). All best wishes, for your entertaining and excellent Internet content production.
My controller is a Yamaha SY22 (which I still use for sounds) and I'm happy to report that the vector joystick on it works pefectly with the Wavestation VST. Keep up the great work.
Sounded pretty indistinguishable to me. I listened on headphones and closed my eyes. Had to listen twice as your playing was so lovely I dropped off briefly. Beautiful job. 😍
Try to add 6db lowpass filter at 10khz for VST version, its add some "magic warm" and "body".
I thought the same thing! Also to my ear - the watetables that are responsible for the higher frequency content/upper register sounds (percussion elements/transients/etc.) could be hotter in the VST compared to the OG hardware.. so maybe bringing down the volume of those specific elements/wavetables of the patches will help bringing back "dat warmff" in addition to playing with the LP filter!
Hi Woody, as one of the 6 who asked for this I wanted to say "Thanks for a great job". Both the hardware synth and the softsynth sounded lovely. I really fascinated by the soft synth but am still tempted to try to get hold of the real thing. I fell in love with this synth when it came out but could never afford one. Time moved on and it just had to analogue or samplers and it the wavestation faded out of thought. But now, 20 years or so later, and I feel the time is right... Thanks a bunch for doing this video. Really informative and helpful. Between you and BoBeats you are costing me a small fortune!
Dude, I came for the comparison, but left with the awesome playing. I will actually listen to this again 👍
bidhendy Same here. My favorite Woody's videos are Wavestation videos. You should check out the one where he's playing the Wavestation outdoors at night.
you guys are too kind, awesome comments, THANKS!!
You really rock this Channel, Woody. Hope it's going well for you :)
Woody, great work on the videos. Thanks for the time you put in to them. Hardware has the edge a bit for me. Especially on the more complex layered sounds the Wavestation produces. Maybe it's a VST tweak needed. It's still a great VST version of the synth even so. Looking forward to the next upload.
The plugin sounds really harsh and flat compared the OG, particularly in the first patch. I had the SR as my first poly module in 93-94, and I sold it in about 2005, and those patches and names, brought back some lovely nostalgia. As an aside, does the plugin use the same fx settings on each patch? Great Video
Hearing this played brought back all the good vibes of PS1/PS2 & Phantasy Star music. Thanks for playing man. I so need to get a MIDI controller and a VST for this.
I use the VST and it makes great deep atmospheric sounds. Both sound great, almost matching. I do not feel such a sell-out using the software, for me it is to do with what is practical as its less space than the hardware. Thanks Woody.
The VSTi sounds a bit more excited (as if being put through an exciter) - a fabulous job from both - you, Sire and the software manufacturer! Now I badly want my Wavestation EX back, which I (plonker) sold back then. Glad, we can have it nowadays as a VSTi.
We love this side by side comparisons, thank a lot for your efforts. Highly appreciated!
Thanks for making the effort to compare the two! I'll have to listen again with proper headphones to determine if I hear any differences.
Keep up the good work!
Cheers from the Netherlands
Something I would love to do, (just because why not), is tear open a hardware Wavestation, tap into the signal chain right before the DAC's, and feed that into a computer to analyze and compare with the VSTi version. Take a look at the raw waveform data both produce before conversion from the digital domain to analog. Might help to settle a question about these VSTi recreations of digital synths - is it an emulation somehow of the original code? As happens with classic video games? Or a true native port of the original software to a new architecture...
Think they've done a really good job with this And excellent demonstration
Keep up the great work
+1
Your HW looks immaculate!
I have an SR and just updated it to the Wavestation2 VSTi.
I just can't live without these sounds.
Great video.
Gosh this synth sounds so amazing... And the plugin does too! Yes, you can hear a bit more high-end, frequency wise, on the VST version. But the sounds are almost just spot-on :). I get so much inspiration from listening to this synth, particularly on the more sequence loop sounds, like "Midnight Run". Great comparison video Woody! Keep it up :).
Very cool video Woodrow! I don't know if you're aware (it blows me away), the iOS iPad version is the exact same code as the Legacy VST. Seeing how well the VST performs here, one can have an iPad, the WaveStation app and a MIDI controller and get as close to a WaveStation as you can without buying the hardware.
iOS apps have long been derided as toys or gimped versions of the desktop version but it's 2017 and iPad Pro specs rival or better what Mac Books had just a few short years ago. The iOS music format is for real and will amaze those who take the time to do some research. Now, I am biased because I am now committed to iOS music production as the center of my home studio. But look up the Auria Pro app, Cubasis 2, Patterning, Neo-Soul Keys Studio, etc. to see how powerful the apps have become.
Korg realized this a few years ago and have aggressively built a knock out collection of their classic synths into iOS apps that frankly are easier to use than VST's thanks to the touch screen interface. The M1, the MS-20, the Mono/Poly, even the ARP Odyssey have been brought to iOS with the same coding/"guts" as the Legacy VST versions but for a fraction of the price. Recently the Gadget app created for iOS was brought to Mac OS and many are getting hep to what the format has to offer. I feel sooner than later more will flock to iOS music instruments & production and the price points will of course go up. If you have an iPad, jump in now and just get one app for $20-30 (the usual price range) and give it a whirl. I have no dog in the hunt, just an excitement for new ways to perform & create music. Sorry for the novella Woody, your video just set off a mass of thoughts...again well done brother.
I think the hardware had a slight bit more fullness and the software had a slight bit more sparkle and definition though both sounded quite good and usable. But I doubt many people would be able to tell you which was which if played 5 minutes apart. Extremely subtle, but there if you listen closely. That being said, if you are a player you'd most likely want the hardware version.
Hi Woody, better late than never. I just got me a Wavestation EX last weekend and i love it. What an amazing machine. I always wanted to add this one to my synthcollection. Thanks for the video😊
Fantastic comparison. Pretty close although I felt on the last example especially the hardware just sounded a lot more inviting to listen to. The VST suffers from being thinner with resonances sticking out (hardware is much more filled out and smooth).
OK now I ended up bidding on a Wavestation at 3am and woke up and won it. Thanks Woody.
I've just had a play with the Korg Collection V2 Wavestation demo version, and have come to see what others made of the comparison. I'm getting back into music recording, so I also liked the look of this Reaper audio editor. I could interchange my hardware Wavestation for this software version. It is a lot easier to get a close sounding soft synth, since the original Wavestation sounds were done in software. My Wavestation came with the ROM sounds copied to RAM1 and RAM 2 so it was great to hear all these other sounds. When I first listening to your sounds, I just turned the lights out, laid on the floor, shut my eyes and drifted, then rewatched to see you playing and see which synth was playing actually making the sound. To my ears I heard no discernbile differences. I also have one of the Wavestation's contemporaries, the Ensoniq SD1 (21 voice) from 1990/91, a very different instrument, but also aimed more at ambient and soundscapes.
is there a way to save new sounds after pressing vector position in the vst?
The Wavestation was my first synth ever back in the 90s. Great demo and comparsion, Woody. Got the vsti now. Great channel, cheers
is there a way to save new sounds after pressing vector position in the vst? i dont know how to
Thanks Woody. You are a help to thousands who watch your vids.
The vst Wavestation sounds fantastic. Random listing will show that this vst is every bit as useful and "good" as the hardware version. When we actually "own" the hardware we fall into a form of bias. But the sound here says it all.
Thx Woody.
For those who can't afford to own (not only purchase but also enough room space and maintenance too) many of really iconic legendary hardware it is a great alternative! After watching your Korg VSTI videos I decided that definitely will buy Korg Collection bundle.
Great job done, Woody!
Thank you very much!
ur welcome!
Thanks, Woody. I subbed because of these great WS videos! It's funny, but on some patches, the VST sounded better, and on others I'd vote for the hardware. I really couldn't choose definitively between the two.
they are so close that you shouldn't choose based on sound, but by cost, convenience, space, reliability etc. :)
I'm so glad Korg eventually got round to giving the M1 and Wavestation VSTs some much needed love. I'd feared that they'd all but abandoned the Legacy collection around the time you made this video. Thankfully they gave it a good shot in the arm with the new Tritons, Odyssey and others. I'm making myself sit down and record some preset playthroughs of the various VSTs in my collection, which I'll dump on one of my YT channels (probably @andthatsmytune) as and when I get around to them. I'm starting with Ultra Analog 3. I'll likely do the same with the Korg plugins. And later take individual patches and deconstruct and study them. I do find, even with the update, that the Wavestation is a bit awkward to program. (I kind of wish VST vendors would do both an old-school-vibe UI like e.g. Arturia do a lot, and a modern one which makes the DSP capabilities of the VST as easily accessible as possible, at the expense of being authentic to the original experience.)
5:34 That rhythmic sound is gorgeous. Would it be okay if I used that preset and/or chords to build a track out of? I would add my own flavor, of course, but I wanted to ask your permission before I go using your idea.
Love your channel, Woody.
Really thankful for this. I used to adore these while I was in College. Only couple of bands having deep pockets here were able to put their hands on this. There's no place to get these used here so knowing of this vst was really something. Now I have both Wavestation & M1 vst and revisit old times (thanks to Woody). Only problem in Korg VSTs is their very small GUI that makes patches and settings hard to read.
I only own the vst and I'm glad it holds most of the stuff, considered that I payed it a few bucks! As many other people wrote, sometimes it's brighter but it could be easily filtered just a bit, perhaps Korg did it intentionally to give the vst a more modern feel. Some of the rythmic sequences are even better than the original! The wooshes, on the contrary, are less true to reality, and the original seems controllable more fluidly. In some vst replications, finally, the vst does not respond to midi/controller data very well, but this may be due to the fact that the original recorded midi data were played: I never experienced glitches in the vst, I think as a player that perhaps we adapt to the interface we have. Thank you much for sharing this precious information.
Francesco, thanks for your thoughts, cheers!
You really know how to play that WS Woody! Very Nice Demo! I think Korg did an awesome port over to the VST. Only the AD/DA Converters were noticeably different to me. Keep this up Woody, can't wait for more!
Great job Woody, outstanding, I'm awaiting a jv2080 with 3 sound cards to arrive and I own this Korg Legacy collection, just watched your 2080 shootout and now this, I think your making folks aware of the dynamite sounds and values these synths STILL have, your gonna push the prices up! Love your vids, greetings from far away Pearl River, NY, cheers buddy.
I was looking for a review of the VST Wavestation, so thank you Woody for making this great comparison video!
To my ears, the software version is missing some "beef" and body, that's most likely coming from the audio converters in the hardware version. The VST is more transparent and you can better distinguish the instruments building the program, but this comes with a loss of "weight". Anyway, it is close enough.
@Woody Piano Shack ~ All converters have an inherent frequency curve. This is part of why different plugin manufacturers wind up with slightly different sounding emulations of hardware. Slate Digital uses a Lynx Hilo when they record samples to analyze, Universal Audio uses their old high end converters which were designed by the founder of Burl Audio. Etc. It's just like with Microphones, or different brands of Tape from way back in the day. So there's an "EQ" in place on the hardware due to the sound of it's DAC section, AND even the cable you're using will then impart some slight signature on the overall sound after the fact (I'm a mastering engineer, and I use three kinds of cable designs from different brands n my Patch Bay to slightly change the "EQ" of a master often, even if I don't patch in any hardware). I'm listening on some Prism Titan converters here...GREAT VIDEO. I'm absolutely sold on buying the Soft Synth. I think it's a higher resolution print of the original samples (so up-sampled probably), and without the character of original converters in the hardware. You even remove the sonics of cabling, and of course it's gonna be a bit clearer with more top end. Still you can use this video you made as a reference to build an EQ preset in the box to compensate if you want to "soften" the soft synth. The Tritons are lovely old boards, but I don't think I'll regret buying the VST. Thanks for doing this! = )
just wait until you hear the ned triton VST!
6:47 vs 7:24
The brass/trumpet ingredient seems slightly more present in the hardware version, there's a difference how it sounds on the attack compared to the vst version I think.
8:02 vs 8:30
On the hardware version I think the rhodes sound feels more "on top" of the metallic sound, while in the vst version it's more evenly mixed together and the metallic sound is more present, and it has a little boost in the lower bass (I prefer the hardware version).
8:57 vs 9:39 10:34 vs 11:00 11:13 vs 11:48
Maybe it's possible to add some eq to the vst version to bring it closer to the original..
Fantastic Woody. Top notch comparisons. Like your videos very much.
Dear Woody, Thanks a lot for your amazing live demo! This is certainly one of the best demo i have ever seen in my lifetime. Great work. ...Ravi Kiran.
That is high praise indeed love it!
Many thanks for taking the time to post this Woody. While I preferred the sound of the original and would love to own one , I can happily live with the VST version as ably demoed in your vlog. The VST has the advantage of costing less, more widely available and more portable on a laptop / less bulky for the gigging musician starting out or playing small venues. Also, I have a small studio (you guessed it, a bedroom) I don't have the room for the hardware synth, and at my level of musicianship these are the sort of compromises you have to make. I'm sure if I were given the EX then my response would be quite different. Thanks again.
Bought the VST during one of those December deals. As a hobbyist it was convincing enough. But what really knocked it out of the park was the iOS version. I played some simple synth parts for a kids musical with many splits. Took a Nektar GX61 key controller, iConnectaudio 4+, and my iPhone (which I had anyways). Love the reaction when you tell the audiophiles that the whole thing was done on a phone. Awesome video, Woody. Keep it up!!!
you mean the ios version sounds better than the vst? perhaps your pc/mac soundcard?
Sorry, Woody! I meant to suggest that the convenience of the iOS version makes it a winner (especially for portability and reliability). Sound-wise, iOS and PC VST seem identical. Programming-wise, the PC VST is much easier, but then again, I'm using the iPhone 6S so there's not much screen room to work with and the GUI's for each version are completely different. Having said all of that, dropping the FXB file exported from the PC VST into iTunes and importing it into the iPhone is a fairly simple process. You can also work with SYSEX files thru iTunes. Thanks again, Woody, for these fantastic Wavestation videos. It was/is a really great synth and IMO Korg has done a really good job with the digital recreations. Best regards, from the island on the other side of the pond...
Great demo and that DebussyOnWheels (last patch) is just gorgeous! Nice work, sir.
yeah, it's gorgeous on both, thanks!
Super appreciated this. SO CLOSE.... and my guess is now in 2021 the VST only got BETTER!
Very nice! I just acquired a Wavestation A/D to integrate into my studio. Your video was well done and I really enjoyed the comparison. 😎
The M1 and Wavestation VST's were a revelation to me when they came out over ten years ago and they remain so today. Roland is catching up, . . But where is Yamaha? Why have they not made software versions of their own classic synths?
Native Instruments did, FM7 vst is dx emulation.
@@RetroMusicStudio FM8 is a lot more powerful than any DX synth I've seen. Especially considering it has 8 operators.
@@mikeexits I agree. NI FM8 is exelent instrument.
They are both software running on a computer. While Roland tried to be clever with the D50 emulation by using the same processor accuracy (modern CPU's have higher floating point precision) and probably modelling the DAC's I don't think Korg did this and I believe they used higher quality samples and a higher sample rate in their emulations. Sounds close enough though and the high end can be EQ'd to make it sound more like the original if you want.
The samples are the same samples from the original Wavestation, but modern DACs are better and more accurate than the ones in the riginal Wavestation.
And that's why many prefer the original system...authenticity counts.
I think it's more than DACs. The partials seem to gel better on the hardware. It's like the algorithms are just a little bit different in how they interpret the presets. Could probably be tweaked to within an EQ of each other, but that's kinda what you buy romplers for, isn't it? So someone else can do the sound design?
@@nickwallette6201 I'm not an expert in hardware, but i think the sound of the original is influenced by the saturation created by the hardware, maybe Korg did some software saturation on the VST. What i notice is the VST version has a lot more high frequencies. I would love to see the same comparison with an Frequency Analizer. Note: The VU meter is clipping, there is really no need to get the meter into the yellow/orange on digital recordings (on analog this gives saturation). Red means digital clipping.
What EQ setings would one use if they wanted to make them sound closer?
Your presentations are always entertaining & informative. Thanks for the hard work!
Thanks for your hard work :o) I have this pack too and I love the sounds of the Wavestation! the bonus is all the cards are with it. Keep the videos coming, I always look forward to seeing them.
i really enjoy your content. i have a lot of the vst's that you do comparisons of so its cool to see the real thing.
I still have a Wavestation SR and I love it!
6:05 The Fire Dance patch appears in the game Azangara in the game over / pause screen
The software vst's sound is cleaner than the hardware which makes it sound louder, but it's a great comparison and very close. Great video as always Woody. Cheers and take care.
Well done comparison. I have read that former WS owners who now use the softsynth said that the vst generally sounds 90-95% like the hardware. This demo confirms it. As I own the Korg legacy collection, I've been thinking about getting the WS SR rack, but I agree with the people saying that the vst sounds close enough. Of course an A/B comparison reveals a difference, but that is less noticable when one uses the softsynth in a production. I'd say the difference between digital hardware synths and their emulations is not as big as the difference between analog synths and their emulations. So, in this case, the emulation is enough for my humble needs. For people playing live, the hardware with its slightly fuller sound makes more sense.
PS: it would be very nice if Korg did an update of the legacy collection, just like Arturia did with their stuff. A resizable GUI would be welcome, and sonic improvements too ;-)
yeah, i think 95% there sounds about right, the convenience and price of the vst outweighs that last 5% for me.
I had a WS back in the day when they were new and I now have the VST. Put side by side like this I have to prefer the hardware version. I don't have the technical language to describe what I'm hearing. I'm tempted to use words like "brighter," "more full," and the very definitive "different." LOL That said, playing the VST on its own is fun, satisfying, and musical and I don't feel like I'm missing a thing. By itself with no comparison it sounds just like the real thing. Considering availability, cost, age of the hardware, the fact that you must lug the hardware around, the extended sounds of the VST, and the ease of programming/tweaking the VST, I'm very, very happy with it. I don't think I'd even want the hardware. But ... even having an XY pad, I really do miss that joystick. :)
what this guy ^^^ said!
Really enjoyed this. Those sounds brought back memories. Still have my Wavestation A/D. Been packed up for a long time but will probably use it again. But I'll definitely end up with the VST since I'd MUCH prefer editing there! Though the A/D has those inputs for vocoding, etc.
The frequency range of VST is seemed to be wider than hardware. It may be caused by old D/A convertor. I once owned Wavestation A/D from 1994 to 1998. Now I use VST.
All these hardware vs. Software or iOS apps audio comparisons are dependent on the computer audio interface or the iPad/iPhone output/interface setup. The audio spectrum of the computer or iOS device can be as good or better for so many soft synths, especially digital ones. The fidelity of samples in a 20-30 year old digital synth can't even touch a modern computer or tablet processor or bit rate. Sometimes that old school dirt does add to the final sound. They'll never sound exactly the same as the original but invest in a quality interface and your VSTs and apps will sound way better than just usable, but great in their own right. If you want width and warmth from your computers, run their outputs through a tube DI box. It's all relative.
Not dissing Woody here. I think he explains clearly, the process of comparison and if there is any difference at all, it's only in this type of naked comparison. My hardware Wavestaions sound great, but the VSTs sound identical for all practical purposes when mixed with 12 tracks of drums, bass, 4 tracks of guitars and layered vocal harmonies. I would challenge anyone to tell me when I used a VST or when I recorded the hardware WS in a song.
Dennis - your quote "if there is any difference at all, it's only in this type of naked comparison" Very well said.
its exactly the opposite , the hardware version has such a wider tone, better in high freq range and low freq range, the vsti plugin is def cute, but no match for the real-thing
but its no matter rly, in the end use what works for you! cant blame you t not use the hardware, it takes time to make sounds for it, alot of ppl just dont have the time to rly dig into it, its not exacly easy
This is really really close enough. And i am someone who always hears the difference immediately.
Some patches are not exact, but in some cases i actually prefer the software version !
I always knew this was a special vst because i remember back when i started out this was one of my first softsynths, and i noticed that not only did it hit my ears how great it sounded, but i was instantly making music which sounded good from the get go.
Can make entire pieces with this alone. I was making 'synthwave' with this longgg before they called it a genre ;)
Even though I discovered this video just now I have to say: Phantastic job! Great comparison between the hardware Wavestation and the VST-version. The third example - sound "Fire Dance" - is instant "Miami Vice" for me. The "Wave Sequences" are such a playfield. :)
Thank you for doing this Woody! I miss my Wavestation.
I found the software reminds me more of the sound of the Wavestation SR; a little one space module that was released later that had tons of presets in lieu of a luxurious programming interface. Both the app and of course the software sound good.
If people crave WS sounds and have an iPad, the app is great too. Get a camera connector kit and a Kronos will make a fine controller for the software.
I miss the look and feel of the old hardware though.
Thanx a lot for comparsion. I am waiting for it and I very glad that you did it. Thanx for your work :)
I have the Legacy software, and I used to own a Wavestation SR. I felt the hardware sounded just a little richer and had a tad more depth, but it was very difficult to quantify the difference. So I sold it, an O1W/fd, a Karma, and an i3, and kept just a Triton-Rack, and an E-mu Morpheus. Everything else is software, which is just so good these days that it doesn't make sense to fill a room with boxes and cables when you can carry a mind-blowing studio in a laptop. How far we've come...
Another great review / comparison Woody. Korg sure seemed to have done a great job with the soft synth version... sounds plenty close enough for me. The Wavestation is definitely a standout (imo) among the seven or so instruments in the Collection. Anyway - thanks for another wonderful review. Great playing. Keep 'em coming!
Th WS is still a serious pad machine. The stacking and mapping and the morph/sequencing is so much fun. Soundtrack work ala Sunshine, Gravity and Vangelis stuff, this thing eats it up.
Hey Woody great job! As an owner of the Korg Legacy collection I was really interested to see this. Sometimes I think about getting a real wavestation but I wasn't sure if it would be worth it. The two sound very close. I did notice generally the hardware sounded a little warmer with a deeper and more solid sounding low end. If one were the add some eq boost and compression to the plugin however, this could be remedied perhaps. I plan to experiment a bit with that. Fun fact about the Wavestation. It was designed by Dave Smith for Korg and was based largely on his Prophet VS.
Loved all the Korg line of synths back in the day had DW8000, I have the M1 vst and use it heavy never checked out the WS but after hearing this video got to cop one of the vst's, thanks.
You are one of the best keyboard players/programmers I've ever seen, still learning how to program my Wavestation EX.
My favorite keyboards of all times are the DX7 and M1. I hate that I sold my DX7. I appreciate your hard work!
Just went to the Korg website to check out the prices while I left the sound playing. Can't say I noticed any difference. Thanks for the comparison!
I enjoy the video! it cool to see a comparison to the original Wavestation and it VST counterpart.
Keep up making videos like this.
Thanks Woody for the video, the sounds sounds amazing and the playing was really nice, i really look forward to your video's thanks again
Vektor Organ patch is the one patch that REALLY stood out to me more than the other patches. The hardware version jelled in a more natural way than the VST version. Otherwise the VST version worked rather well in many of these instances. From what I have read, the original samples for the Wavestation were recorded in 16bit/20khz, while the ROM versions were 12bit/11khz. This would explain a lot of the difference sonically.
Thanks for the info. I have the real one since 1990 and have done a lot of music using it. Im in love with it and will never ever part from it. Im really lucky cause now the VST is on sale for half the price (was not a week ago) so I bought it instantly! :)
Great video, Woody!! Those two instruments sound 'identical' to me. 🙂
P D
Some nice playing by the Woodster. I spaced and drifted until the plugin came on, then it was back to analysis. The real Wavestation was so much more subtle. Thank you so much for this work!
I had the Korg Wavestation EX and SR, then years later bought the VSTi version and imho they sound very similar or at least the plugin is very close, maybe even a bit cleaner because of 16bit 44khz conversion for modern soundcards.
Glad to see your still using the Apex stand. I think mines great. I only got one after your tutorial.
In 1994 I bought a rack version for a friend of mine who was abroad. I tested it for few days, and I'm pretty sure there was also a kind of vocoder embedded, and a mike input also. It is not said much about it, though.
Great playing Woody! The Wavestation is one of the best keyboards that Korg put out back in the day. I own the VST as well as the M1 and they are pretty great too. You got a new sub 😀
Impressive work and great comparison - thanks Woody.
Thank God I have the original, and after your video I'm not gonna sell it.. :)
This synth is multi timbral. Which only occurred to me when I had 4 ws patches running out of it at the same time. Then I was completely floored. 😁
you had me subbed at the wavestation intro. Love that sound!
I really like what you played at 8:58, sounds just like some bgm to a late night TV-bumber from the '80s or '90s.
most of the presets sound a bit like that :)
@@WoodyPianoShack Yeah that is true, I love this VST, used a lot it in recent years. :)
Thanx for comprehensive the demo... KORG did a very good thing on the VST... and you did on the demo! thumbs up!
Hi Woody!! Thanks for another great video!! I really appreciate your attention to detail with your comparison videos. My ears are getting old, but if I had to make a guess, I'd say the VST sounds a little brighter and punchier. Both the hardware and the VST sound great though. Thanks for posting Woody!!
Thanks for this great comparison video. Though the overall sounds are very close, the hardware beats the software in minimal audible details. As many have commented, these differences would appear as unnoticed in a full track mix.
Excellent work BTW! Always wanted the comparison done since I own the VST (was on my old Win XP) but I've been looking the A/D rack version at a good price for years.
I still have my Wavestation EX but search a Softwareeditor/Saver...which works with Win10,too. I have just the old WaveStation SoundEditor 32bit v1.4 which works now not more, Is there a way to get it work again with Win10 ? Thanks for help end greetings from Andreas
Dear Woody, have you been producing a lot of new tracks with the lovely little synth? Would love to see some more of your music on youtube! Again the Wavestation swoops in and saves the day! Excellent soundcraft, and beautiful, mesmerizing feel.
PS: the strings that come in around 11:30 are awesome!!! Giving me chills every time I play it back! +++
Are you playing Maiden Voyage at 12:23?? The voicing and chord shapes sound really off.
yes , i'd say these are the standard voicings for sus4... :)
Sound wise there really is not much in it.
However the jamming on the physical instrument will take you places you would never go with a VST and a midi controller. It is like handling a mystical object. Inspires you.
+Greg Allen - I agree totally I came here because I love everything woody does incl his occasional rain dances. Know nxt to nothing about keyboards but I'm learning fast. Woody is unique on RUclips, highly educational, good player and owns some good fluffy toys
Agree completely Greg. There's an organic interaction that occurs with hardware, especially one you are deft at programming (dedicated knobs and sliders help!), that shapes your sound and style as a synthesist, and is much more freeing musically than any VST.
@@PhilAndersonOutside exactly, as one said above, there is some magic interaction happening between the instrument and musician player. It has some impact on your acting. VST is just a screen controlled by mouse, not your hands and fingers. From my experience, I did some compositions with keys and knobs, but can hardly perfom something from screen. And every different keyboard has different feel when you touch the keys....
@@PhilAndersonOutside yeah but you can get a high end controller with a better keyboard than the Korg, with knobs and sliders too. Let's not pretend this is an acoustic instrument...it's still cold digital just like the VST
@@HiredGoonage Yes. And in addition think of one that is easy on your eyes and fingers, one that really carries its own charachter, made with metal and some wood maybe... In my oppinion this, together with a computer, can feel like an instrument in is own rights.
Finally a WS comparison! I think the hardware sounds better (since it actually IS a wavestation), but the VST is so much easier program. Timeless...
I really had a hard time matching the wave sequences tempo to other devices such as my dw8000. It would be good to get the patch in the vast to tempo match first then send the patch to the synth. 😎
I've have a Wavestation from new, and upgraded it to the EX. Yes the software is 90-95% there...but I just can't bring myself to sell the keyboard. ( Different subject, but I wish Korg did their ipad odyssei as a plugin...)
That plugin was my first and so far still only experience with Korg Wavestation. I still do not have a Korg Modwave or Wavestate synth and sadly the Original Wavestation A/D is just too expensive and hard to find in the USA. Thank God for the plugin!
Actually I find the sounds of the vst sound a bit lower like the gear was filtered. But what's your conclusion Woody?
I am finding with all the plugin emulations, the sound tends to be a little brighter and thinner at times. And you also hear greater separation of the elements that comprise the sound. Hence I am experimenting with plugins after the VSTi to add a little "glue". I own both the wavestation SR and the software and am determined if I can to shed more hardware and improve my work flow. However only if I can get the sound within reasonable limits.
Nice channel, nice instruments - it was a very good years
With the headphones, some of the sounds were a bit fuller with hardware and some sounds were cleaner with software. I couldn't tell the difference in real life. One way or the other, if you own it as hardware or software, you'll win.
The playing and the sounds overall were fantastic :)
"... some of the sounds were a bit fuller with hardware ..." - It's the differences between the DAC's on the hardware WS, and the DAC's in the computer's audio card.
Both are generating sound the same way - digitally, so before that analog output stage it's just numbers in computer memory.
@@looneyburgmusic Yep, that's true. But the point was to estimate the sound quality without digging any deeper into the electronics
To my ears the hardware sounds 'warmer' to my ears, but my guess is this could be EQ'd and probably wouldn't be noticeable in a final mix.... and that is only if my brain isn't playing tricks with me!
I can remember hearing a Wavestation a few years ago, being sold comparatively cheaply, and I just thought it sounded dated and cheesy. Given a few years and while the sounds seem familiar my feelings are entirely different! The Wavestation now seems beautiful and embody an aesthetic of a certain time and feels very nostalgic and would be perfect for some pieces I want to work on. Unfortunately for me the market must also feel the same way and I suspect I'll be using the Korg Legacy version instead!
Thanks for these comparison reviews, Woody. Either way I'm buying a Wavestation in some form and a D50/D550/D05. Roland and Korg should send you some T-Shirts (and more free gear)!
good luck finding a nice one! cheers
WOW This on 15:48 was used on Yu Yu Hakusho Soundtrack! Amazing!
🙏🏾🙏🏾