"Click here for a complete overview..." -> *_click_* -> "There is, quite literally, too much great stuff to list... Sign up with your email address" :( So there's no way to get a list without signing up for a marketing service?
@@RonSwansonIsMyGod Yes totally agree with this. The pendulum has so shifted to "gear lust" (check out Telekom Electronic Beats channel) at the expense of "creative lust"- breaking new artistic ground with minimal gear is rarely discussed or promoted. Punk, Acid, Techno. Drum & Bass etc etc all came about from creative expression based on cheap available gear. I think Brian Eno is leading the pack again with his in the box software approach these days. Using things like scripting in Logic X and generative software is really interesting. Sorry to be a bit preachy - just an opinion !
I know the feeling! I have built a synth collection during the past 25 years myself. I do use most of them in my music all the time, but some can sit on the shelf unused for years. But there's an even bigger moral dilemma in this for me: I have an active RUclips channel, where I feature myself performing with my huge synth collection, and I feel that I'm giving people the wrong message. You definitely don't need tons of gear to make great music! As society is going people are just buying more unnecessary stuff, which puts an even greater burden on the planet's resources. In addition, there has lately been a recent surge in the availability of new, cheap synthesizers, making the temptation stronger than ever for electronic musicians to buy instruments they don't necessarily need. Rumors are that you can't even get spare parts to these new cheap synths, meaning that they will likely end up as waste much sooner than the more expensive modern or even vintage synths (that many 3rd part enthusiasts provide new spare parts for). Many also have a problem with their personal economy and consume more than they can afford to. So I congratulate you on your decision! You give a great example to the many musicians that look up to you. Hopefully, it will convince a few that less is indeed more. I could never do it, but I really need to think about the message I'm relaying...
I don't think it arises in mind, but in heart, as I see it. For me at least, the burden of having too much gear came also about a year ago. And it came as sensation that there is something wrong here. I looked around and felt that I am buried under too many synths. My psychiatrist told me that all great decisions come from within and then mind forms some explanation. And so my GAS stopped, I have one more thing to buy and that will be SSL X-Desk to give me limits to all my fixed synths and one channel for my modular (which I limit to four cases, selling all overflow modules). When you will feel that it is time to sell you gear, there will be no other way. As for your impact - don't put it on your shoulders. I think that most people are gassing because of totally different reason. I could write a lot about those reason. Let's just say, that it is not amount of gear that some famous musician has or displays. In short: it comes from expectations and ignorance or lack of experience. Regarding resources and consumerism: it is hard to draw universal line. Collecting gear sure looks like one. But heading into music production also requires more gear than simple singing or acoustic guitar playing. My nonscientific hypothesis is that what is right for us, is to learn how to listen to your heart and then follow it. Love should be ultimate target. ;-]
Hey Kebu, totally agree with you. But I think it is a general problem, buy more than needed, obsolescence chips, and so on. I have just a small studio, but I have always to stop myself to buy new shit I don't need. Btw. I really love your music, keep the spirit😍😍
Kebu if we didn’t have people like you who use vintage synths , then we wouldn’t have the great music that you compose and play live . We can’t let these beautiful vintage synths go too waste , after all they are history . Even if you don’t use them all , they won’t break if you don’t use them much . Keep up your amazing channel . If you could only have a couple of synths what would they be and would you get a new synth or would it be vintage ?
you need less = new Gen i7 Mac + software or 80ies polysynth, 00's monosynth, 90ies rompler, 90 sequencer. New computer versus reusing of older gear that may've ended up as ewaste
I had this Ibanez guitar that for a long time was played often. But, it was meant for speed and metal, which I don’t play, so it wasn’t played for years. A friend’s son was becoming quite skilled and one day I decided to give it to him. It was a bit painful. I had a lot of memories in that guitar. But one fine day the kid’s band came to town opening for a really big band and I went with his dad to see him play. First song ... there was my old guitar! That made me so happy! I hope this happens with you too.
It’s called mid life realignment.. it happened when I turned 50 ... declutter my life and kept things simple. Even gave things away. I began to look at life differently.
Why not rent it or open a little music school with it where kids can have the benefits of hardware gear?? We will hopefully face a prosper post COVID time. This collection is YOU. I think a lot Young People would appreciate participating in your knowledge. Just my two cents! ✌🏽🎹
There's really not a lot you can teach young students on old collector grade equipment.. Everything worth teaching can be taught on a modern PC that would probably be 1/4 the price of the vintage hardware. Collections aren't people.. I've recently (most likely) lost my entire record collection.. Those records aren't me.. My enjoyment of the music I had is me.
Good point. I can think of two things I ought to sell straight away: the Proteus/1 that I settled-for instead of saving a bit more for a U220, and the uninspiring Boutique JP-08 despite its cute little faders (I seem to be the only person who actually likes them).
Some of my best techno came from the use of a Juno 106 keyboard, Roland R8 mk2 drum machine, Alesis MMT-8 sequencer and my Tascam 688 8 track cassette recorder. Back in the 90’s Detroit techno was all about minimal. I still feel that way today. It’s not the gear you own, it’s what you do with the gear that matters. When you’re limited, you tend to be more creative. With that impulse, your sound becomes more personal. You’re rig is what defines you. I couldn’t imagine owning or hoarding all that gear. I’d be lost and overwhelmed. Out of all that gear you have, I’d pick the Jupiter 8, I’ve always wanted a Jupiter 8 but could never afford one.
This is something I appreciated about The Prodigy and the tools they used to make their music. From every album they were almost always using commodity synths, samplers or software. There was no esoteric modular eurorack system.
I really recognize your motivation for selling your gear. I'm afraid though that it will end up in the hands of collectors, who will not use it, because the people who would use it a lot cannot afford it. Maybe just start with selling the gear that you've used the least and see how that feels. I agree with others here that you might regret selling some of the great rare gear.
This is so interesting on several levels. I too remember picking up Moogs for $70 when they were out of fashion, I once got a Juno 60 in good condition for $50. But more importantly, I understand philosophically what he means by walking into the studio, feeling overwhelmed with the choices, and feeling bad for not using some of this classic gear more. I look around my studio at some of the great synths and samplers I have collected that I would have used 24 hours a day as a kid and feel bad sometimes they go unused for a while. I used to do a lot more buying and selling, and I still have more than I need, but I will say everything is hooked up, gets used, and has been on at least one record. All of that said, the vintage synth and gear market has to be at an all time high, not a bad time to get out.
This topic kind of reminds me of how so many people will buy 'a' or even multiple classic cars to restore and it sits in their yard for 25 years and they die never having done anything with it. It would be better to either jump in and do it or sell the things, but I think they keep them as a dream more than anything. Honestly it's kinda sad. For me, my life motto is "only own what I use" everything else I get rid of, it makes for an efficient life and I don't have to upkeep or store a bunch of crap I don't use.
I felt exactly the same way! Not just I felt bad but frustrated cuz beautiful gear is collecting dust is a no no! Decided to just keep what I want to use.
@Tom I know exactly how that feels. Why? Because i got rid of my small studio 3 times. Gave away instruments to people who were in need. Yes also i walked into the room and could not give the instruments the time i felt they needed. We were staring at eachother so to say, and only i could make a choice. Over the past 3 years i got new gear. All second hand, and i prommised myself only to touch them when i emotionally feel i need to connect with the world through music. Music is emotional connection. Wonderful in its energie and truly a state of honesty.
Woow first you've built the ultimate collection, and now you're selling it... I can't imagine a more "full circle" feeling then this. Wat een baas ben jij zeg Tom!
Hi Junkie XL. Nice move, I feel the same now, choice paralysis, I have been studying classical piano for 3 years, doing shows with different gear every time, I had sold all my studio gear in 2008 but then I had an inheritance and the pandemic isolation enticed me to buy gear again, I don’t have as mulch as you of course but it can still be a burden especially when things break down and take up space in my 1 bedroom apartment. The fact that you can sample all this gear before selling it (I always do that) will give you a magnificent super producer killer library ! I am from Montreal Canada. Cheers !
Interesting indeed. Being a 5U modular guy, I will be most looking forward to how your modular wall is divided up. Phew, that will be work for someone. All the best!
I collected RCA ribbon microphones for many years and had them sonically restored where needed. I used them for recording and they brought me great joy, but after a while I Started using more condenser microphones In my recordings. The ribbon microphones just stayed in their cases and aside from a few favorites. They eventually were just never used so one day I just sold them all to good homes. I didn’t look back, and continued on recording. Thank you for your video
Uh oh, my collection issues no longer enjoy a comparative rationalization 😬! Good on you, Tom! May you enjoy the freedom it brings! Best wishes, Daniel 🙏🏼
Did the same thing when I relocated. Decided to sell all my hardware - lot's of cool stuff I had collected over the years - synths, drum machines etc. Was hard at first, but after you sell the first piece it gets easy.
I've never been a collector, unless you consider fur balls from cat as a collection. I'm very zen, when ever I move from one place to another if I haven't used it in a year away it goes - it does not come with me. I have friends like you that have tons of "things" which never are used. There is freedom to not owning things, for example I'm in Los Angeles and sold my car, I just rent one when I need it as I work from home. Kudos to you for selling off your collection and doing it without need or regret.
Fans, friends, family always asked me: "why are you selling this synth? I know you liked it very much". And my answer was always: "If for the last 6 months I haven't used it, it's not good. This synth was meant for creativity, not to stay (in a collection) and collect dust." Yes, the first time when I sold a synth, was the hardest... And sometimes I just want to sell all my synths (well, almost all!) and only use some good VSTs. But as you said, writing music with hardware it's another experience level. You can almost feel the energy of the circuits inside the synth!
I mean, realistically you have to part will all your things at some point. Better to do it while you're still alive, decide who deserves it, and appreciate that it's getting put to good use. I feel really good when I pass on something I've had for a while & see that another person is grateful to give it new home, rather than have it end up in the junk.
This is the way. I have watched several folks (including myself) start to downsize the synth collections over the past year. Well done Tom. I applaud you on this direction and all the best to you and your musical direction and brand new studio. Can't wait to see it and let's get you on my podcast soon my friend.
I think your decision is both wise and good! You will feel better, and the gear will inspire many, many musicians worldwide! Cheers man, looking forward for more studio time :)
well, i guess im bit late to catch the DX1 from you ? hehe awesome insight here, i absolutely agree with what your saying.. i already feel similar and have only a quarter of what you have! thank you for sharing. You so cool !
That’s beautiful, man! You’re spreading the love. (Record samples of your favorite stuff that you won’t be keeping - and you’ll always have some version of it on hand).
Good luck Tom! I have been through this myself, sometimes you need to purge gear to free your mind and creativity. It masks sense, I think it will be great for you and a whole bunch of people who will find a great new instrument!
As I get older pass 60, I feel a sense of urgency to make good music by embracing simplicity. I find myself feeling anxious when I look at the instruments I own and don't play. So I totally get what you are saying. With experience and knowledge comes a greater access to creativity and artistry which don't necessitate a lot of gear and things but more of time, space and peace of mind. The most beautiful sounds are easy to find and harvest when we stop chasing it. Good luck with your new space and spend time well in it... Life is a flicker!
Found my instrument. Got rid of the electronics. I play for me, not an audience. My instrument is a jaw harp. FINALLY I can play MY music, not trying to play someone else's. I am 72 years old.
You just made me cry on the inside sir. You spoke with such care of a father giving out his daughter in marriage, however this one means that you will never get to see these awesome gears again. Thanks again sir. I live in Nigeria, so I don't think it will cheaper for me to request a buy. I hope, like you said, those gears find new good homes
I fully understand this decision. I did the same thing last month, although my gear collection was quite a bit smaller than yours. I definitely feel that having less gear forces me to be more creative with what I have. Having too many options was very taxing on my writing process. I am very exited to see what you kept.
Don't do it Mr. Junkie, you will regret it, big time. I know because I've done it many times myself and ended up re-buying almost all I've sold at a higher price. This crisis is tough on every one. Hold on tight, will be better soon. Don't do it.
Wow, I have less than .1% of his gear and I feel like I have too much! I stopped buying plugins because I was feeling overwhelmed by them. I understand the motivation behind this and good job Tom. Keep on doing wjhat you're doing :)
Excellent choice! Less things screaming at you every day means less stress and more mental freedom. Did the same thing last December - still don't regret it a bit.
This summer I got almost bankrupt (because of the corona-stockmarket crash) so I had to leave my home country and move to my girlfriend in England, because I couldn't pay the rent anymore. I had to sell all my instruments and gear. All of it. I got depressed and felt so empty. Then one day, my girlfriend came home with a cheap Gear4Music-guitar for me. That was the happiest moment for me of getting an instrument in my entire music life. Selling all your gear feels bad, but also relieving. You can start off again, just like old times. You feel more fresh. And for the first time, you know exactly what you need that's important for your upcoming music-gear. Music-life shall return!
Totally get this, when the gear is getting in the way of creativity and causing anxiety its time for it to go. Also, I think your timing is good. There is an obsessive interest in the stuff globally at the moment with huge $$ being paid so a good time to cash out.
Well... just know if you ever feel/felt guilty for not using all the awesome gear you own, don't forget how valuable the fact is that you have touched/inspired many people with your knowledge and love for these machines trough this youtube channel. That might be one of the most powerful things you could have done. Must be hard to give it all away an d I respect that decision, nonetheless thanks for sharing it and I hope you can still share some wonderful little facts about the gear you use every now and then. But I'm sure that we shouldn't worry about that too much. Anyways.... grrrroetjes!
I just bought your Mutable Instruments Edges as my first eurorack module! I'm really excited to play with it and make it a well loved piece of my own studio!
Must be hard time let go of all this great gear, but I get it. Creativity is king, and getting creative with limited gear is such a great feeling. I hope your pieces find great homes. Good luck.
I have a very modest synth collection that's taken many years to gather and am kind of glad I can't afford to get every shiny new thing that comes out. It takes ages to be able to dig into the features of any capable synth so being limited to only a few units has helped me get more confident, especially for live improvisation.
Don't sell the Jupiter's or MKS stuff! You will regret it! At least I did when I sold my Jupiter 6 years ago 😁 Anyway keep up the good work! Looking forward to the video that will show what gear you kept 😎
i want to do the exact thing and decided to sell all my gears -- only to have fact check that i don't have any valuable gears... you Tom is my music hero and will make phenomenal musics no matter what gears you own.. salute to you..
Dude, great move, comes directly from a great heart. Love your work, but you impress me even more whenever you show us a part of your personality. Wish you best of luck and hope you're going to achieve what you're looking for, but the way you sound leaves no doubt about that.
Sad to see you part with the stuff that took so long to collect. Glad to see that you allow others to share a piece of history to use. Too bad I am just seeing this right now, too bad there is no Moog gear (left ?). I am an electronics engineer and a big Moog fanboy so my motto is "Moog or mine": All synth gear is either build be me or by Moog. But it's tempting to buy one of your old VCO modules
4:51 Are you absolutely sure that you feel bad because of this ? Nowaday everyone feels bad ! Think twice, you have a relationship with each one of your instrument, be sure you won't regret any of them
I know. Too much gear. I got into the conclusion that i cant be concentrated with more than ~12 synth. Too much noise in my eyes, and then u 'forget' some of them... Yours is a joy to the eye🤩
My first thought it was because many people are cleaning house and leaving California to work remotely in a cheaper state. I know a couple composers doing that now as we speak. Hope to pick up something on the 9th :)
Thank you so much for your contributions to music and education!! I am mostly a guitar player but I'm very interested in getting into modular synthesizers. Your videos are very inspiring and I love that you're doing this for your fellow musicians!
This is exactly what I have done for the last couple of years (on a much much smaller scale of course). Get rid of the stuff that's become a burden - that slows you down - and keep the gear that excites you, makes you more agile!
AS a guitarist with guitaritis I understand the feeling of guilt. I got some great guitars I maybe played once... It's like with clothes, 80 percent of the time you wear 20 percent of your wardrobe. But when I see an instrument I like, and I fall in love I GOT to have it, even though I do not NEED it. I own a Gretsch I bought 13 years ago, such a beautiful instrument, but I just played it a few times. When I see that guitar in my studio every day I feel guilty. But they are all like my kids, I just cant part with them... So, I swallow the guilt, and take the loss... Greetings from the homeland, Tom!
You know what Tom? If that's how you feel you have to do, then do it. I know how much you love and perhaps attached you are to your toys. But if you don't use instrument it'll die. So don't let them die and pass em along to those who will. You'll feel better in the end as well.
There was a Hans Zimmer composers evening (available to view on Spitfire/RUclips?). They were surrounded by synth upon synth, I did wonder at that time how many were actively used, or indeed the last time they were. We are all guilty of buying new tech, and conversely, getting old tech in an attempt at reliving the memories from our youth. This is something we all have to just-do. As we get older we reevaluate what matters the most in keeping us ‘valid’. Tom, I totally respect the openness of what you have imparted to everyone (the world.). A new chapter awaits.
Best of luck with the sales and congratulations on a bold creative step! The best artists take a few left turns through their careers. I can't wait to see how culling the herd will influence your workflow and sound design!
Summary: The less is more. You are the legend and one of the reasons I've screwed up my life choosing a music career - and I never regret it. Thank You Thomas!
Always love your inspiring videos Tom. You could make music with two soups cans and a kazoo. Looking forward to hearing about your new studio and setup.
It must be very difficult to get rid of such amazing synths after taking care for years, but you definitely are right. The focus must be in the music with all gear behind, and not in front. Many times it's so easy to get lost with all gear without making music, but music must be always the first!
I totally can under stand that you sell some of the stuff. I did this twice in the last 30 Years.Altough i gave some very good stuff aways it was a kind of relief. Last time i sold for example my Yamaha CS 30 and Jupiter 8 and some other really great synths... but it is like you say, those synths should be used instead of just heating up the room. And if we are honest, those are tools, and most of them you can easly buy again if you really miss them. As long as you have learned how to use them and now how they sound you will somehow manage do recreate those sounds in other ways too. An i love the idea that you give it away for charity!
4 года назад+1
I couldn't clap with a rhythm if my life depended on it. Yet I see that wall of knobs and my heart stops. Old knobs. Rare knobs. Priceless knobs. To be turned with bare hands. Almighty wall of knobs.
Awesome video thank you for this. I have a lot of gear myself and I feel the same way at times. I also started to thin the herd it’s hard but I get to appreciate the gear I keep. Stay safe Godspeed
Man I feel that. Sold all my Yamaha Reface months ago because I'm not using it enough, glad the new owner actually a full time musician and make a better use of it than sitting under my desk all the time.
I understand you perfectly. In 2020 I have sold: Moog grandmother, Elektron Digitakt, Roland TR-09, Roland JU-06 and something else, precisely because I felt that I was not taking advantage of it and I was very sorry. Now I work with my old Roland XP-30, an SP-404A, the iPad and the computer with Reason. I don't need more. I know it is not comparable to your situation or your study, but I understand the feeling you are talking about.
@@fishfantasyumiumi That's great to hear, maybe I overlooked/skipped that part as I wasn't aware, appreciate the info and glad it's going towards something very positive.
That's the reason why I love the One Synth Challenge (google it!). MAN, I am glad to see that this feeling of too much gear can even get to people like JunkieXL. Only I am overwhelmed with much less already :)
I signed up I'm a broke musician. Not a collector probably cant afford anything but telling my bandmates maybe we can pool together and get a couple pedals or a synth machine if theres an affordable one. But I'm with yall they deserve to be in museums or collectors hands but man i wish i could see actual bands creating with all these goodies. I just hope the junkie himself signs all the gear so people will know it was his. What an amazing creator and artist. Guys like me at least would have a cool story explaining the gear and where we got it and how.
This takes a serious amount of guts to do. Sheesh. I dont even have a half of a quarter of what you have and still find it hard to get rid of a few things. Less is definitely more and there are companies praying on people with G.A.S.! This message is cool and right on time. I REALLY love the intent and where the money is going.
Good for you, growth requires change. As many of us know, restricted options can increase focus and unleash creativity. As a gear collector myself, I have enjoyed you sharing your collection, with us. Wish these kind of things were available, to check out from our local library 😄 I have found myself at a comfortable level, but still enjoy playing with a new toy, once in a while. Every now and then, I take a lode of unused stuff to the consignment shop, and if feels great. Best wishes for you continued success, and thanks for sharing your jurney
I'm overwhelmed with my EPM12 and less than a dozen synths plus a few guitars and pedals. Cannot fathom getting one's head around your setup. Very keen to see what you are getting rid of.
Tom, ik begrijp dit zo. Heb de afgelopen jaren ook veel verkocht (Polymoog, Multimoog, Emulator II en III....) en het voelt alsof je mentaal overgewicht kwijtraakt. En je hebt er volgens mij ontzettend veel plezier aan beleefd :) Hartelijke groet Peter Sijbenga
Tom what are the chances you will end up with twice as much virtual synths and plugs than you have hardware gear? At that point is it just the dilemma of it being physical space-taking equipment that requires maintenance vs software that has no capacitors to replace? If your plugin sits in your drive unused for months, does the virtual state remove the feelings of responsibility to it? Like A.I. friends vs Breathing friends? Can't wait to see your new setup!
![Chris Langan - The Interview THEY Didn't Want You To See - CTMU [Full Version; Timestamps]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/9miVG2xT5jY/mqdefault.jpg)
There's a complete overview of the gear over at Reverb's blog, check it out here: bit.ly/ReverbJXL
Awesome! ☕❤️
Def Beat is still one of the greatest tracks to street race to.
"Click here for a complete overview..." -> *_click_* -> "There is, quite literally, too much great stuff to list... Sign up with your email address"
:(
So there's no way to get a list without signing up for a marketing service?
@@ToyKeeper our passion is their real estate
@@RonSwansonIsMyGod Yes totally agree with this. The pendulum has so shifted to "gear lust" (check out Telekom Electronic Beats channel) at the expense of "creative lust"- breaking new artistic ground with minimal gear is rarely discussed or promoted. Punk, Acid, Techno. Drum & Bass etc etc all came about from creative expression based on cheap available gear. I think Brian Eno is leading the pack again with his in the box software approach these days. Using things like scripting in Logic X and generative software is really interesting. Sorry to be a bit preachy - just an opinion !
I know the feeling! I have built a synth collection during the past 25 years myself. I do use most of them in my music all the time, but some can sit on the shelf unused for years. But there's an even bigger moral dilemma in this for me: I have an active RUclips channel, where I feature myself performing with my huge synth collection, and I feel that I'm giving people the wrong message. You definitely don't need tons of gear to make great music! As society is going people are just buying more unnecessary stuff, which puts an even greater burden on the planet's resources. In addition, there has lately been a recent surge in the availability of new, cheap synthesizers, making the temptation stronger than ever for electronic musicians to buy instruments they don't necessarily need. Rumors are that you can't even get spare parts to these new cheap synths, meaning that they will likely end up as waste much sooner than the more expensive modern or even vintage synths (that many 3rd part enthusiasts provide new spare parts for). Many also have a problem with their personal economy and consume more than they can afford to. So I congratulate you on your decision! You give a great example to the many musicians that look up to you. Hopefully, it will convince a few that less is indeed more. I could never do it, but I really need to think about the message I'm relaying...
I don't think it arises in mind, but in heart, as I see it. For me at least, the burden of having too much gear came also about a year ago. And it came as sensation that there is something wrong here. I looked around and felt that I am buried under too many synths. My psychiatrist told me that all great decisions come from within and then mind forms some explanation. And so my GAS stopped, I have one more thing to buy and that will be SSL X-Desk to give me limits to all my fixed synths and one channel for my modular (which I limit to four cases, selling all overflow modules). When you will feel that it is time to sell you gear, there will be no other way.
As for your impact - don't put it on your shoulders. I think that most people are gassing because of totally different reason. I could write a lot about those reason. Let's just say, that it is not amount of gear that some famous musician has or displays. In short: it comes from expectations and ignorance or lack of experience.
Regarding resources and consumerism: it is hard to draw universal line. Collecting gear sure looks like one. But heading into music production also requires more gear than simple singing or acoustic guitar playing. My nonscientific hypothesis is that what is right for us, is to learn how to listen to your heart and then follow it. Love should be ultimate target. ;-]
Hey Kebu, totally agree with you. But I think it is a general problem, buy more than needed, obsolescence chips, and so on. I have just a small studio, but I have always to stop myself to buy new shit I don't need. Btw. I really love your music, keep the spirit😍😍
Kebu if we didn’t have people like you who use vintage synths , then we wouldn’t have the great music that you compose and play live . We can’t let these beautiful vintage synths go too waste , after all they are history . Even if you don’t use them all , they won’t break if you don’t use them much . Keep up your amazing channel . If you could only have a couple of synths what would they be and would you get a new synth or would it be vintage ?
you need less = new Gen i7 Mac + software or 80ies polysynth, 00's monosynth, 90ies rompler, 90 sequencer. New computer versus reusing of older gear that may've ended up as ewaste
Would be cool to see a vid from you, only using one or two synths :D Some looper/sampler would be obviously required then..
I had this Ibanez guitar that for a long time was played often. But, it was meant for speed and metal, which I don’t play, so it wasn’t played for years. A friend’s son was becoming quite skilled and one day I decided to give it to him. It was a bit painful. I had a lot of memories in that guitar. But one fine day the kid’s band came to town opening for a really big band and I went with his dad to see him play. First song ... there was my old guitar! That made me so happy! I hope this happens with you too.
nice story, nice example.
It’s called mid life realignment.. it happened when I turned 50 ... declutter my life and kept things simple. Even gave things away. I began to look at life differently.
Why not rent it or open a little music school with it where kids can have the benefits of hardware gear?? We will hopefully face a prosper post COVID time. This collection is YOU. I think a lot Young People would appreciate participating in your knowledge. Just my two cents! ✌🏽🎹
There's really not a lot you can teach young students on old collector grade equipment.. Everything worth teaching can be taught on a modern PC that would probably be 1/4 the price of the vintage hardware. Collections aren't people.. I've recently (most likely) lost my entire record collection.. Those records aren't me.. My enjoyment of the music I had is me.
Kids?? Nobody wants to have dirty little booger hands all over a $100k keyboard ;D
@@rmzmusik what if its mozart
I probably couldn't afford one of your midi cables, but I have mad respect for this move.
Only keep the things that always inspire. The rest is just hoping and wishing.
Good point. I can think of two things I ought to sell straight away: the Proteus/1 that I settled-for instead of saving a bit more for a U220, and the uninspiring Boutique JP-08 despite its cute little faders (I seem to be the only person who actually likes them).
Oh Keith, I am not at all surprised to see you here :)
From my point Novation circuit is most inspiring piece of hardware I have ever owned
Totally agree!!
m.ruclips.net/video/zbjjEd7rhG4/видео.html
Sometimes the things you own, they end up owning you.
It's only after we've lost everything that we're free to do anything.
Well said
Tyler Durden
@@_innerscape_ nope, crappy author.
Seeing people quote Fight Club is a deep level of cringe...
As George Lucas once said "Choice is the antithesis of commitment". Too much gear, too many plugins etc can limit creativity with choice paralysis!
reason i sold komplete and all my NI stuff. No more scrolling through ridiculous sounding presets i would never use.
Orson Welles: "The enemy of art is the absence of limitations"
Ditto!
@@embodie_breaks7089 NI sounds horrible and artificial anyway.
Some of my best techno came from the use of a Juno 106 keyboard, Roland R8 mk2 drum machine, Alesis MMT-8 sequencer and my Tascam 688 8 track cassette recorder. Back in the 90’s Detroit techno was all about minimal. I still feel that way today. It’s not the gear you own, it’s what you do with the gear that matters.
When you’re limited, you tend to be more creative. With that impulse, your sound becomes more personal. You’re rig is what defines you. I couldn’t imagine owning or hoarding all that gear. I’d be lost and overwhelmed. Out of all that gear you have, I’d pick the Jupiter 8, I’ve always wanted a Jupiter 8 but could never afford one.
That is an ace setup. Oh the good old days.
This is something I appreciated about The Prodigy and the tools they used to make their music. From every album they were almost always using commodity synths, samplers or software. There was no esoteric modular eurorack system.
Appreciate your honesty in sharing your own thought process. It can help us revise our relationship with our own gear too.
I really recognize your motivation for selling your gear. I'm afraid though that it will end up in the hands of collectors, who will not use it, because the people who would use it a lot cannot afford it.
Maybe just start with selling the gear that you've used the least and see how that feels. I agree with others here that you might regret selling some of the great rare gear.
Or you could sell it for stupid low prices since you are already a millionaire from all those filter sweeps and dramatic thuds you sold to the MCU....
This is so interesting on several levels. I too remember picking up Moogs for $70 when they were out of fashion, I once got a Juno 60 in good condition for $50. But more importantly, I understand philosophically what he means by walking into the studio, feeling overwhelmed with the choices, and feeling bad for not using some of this classic gear more. I look around my studio at some of the great synths and samplers I have collected that I would have used 24 hours a day as a kid and feel bad sometimes they go unused for a while. I used to do a lot more buying and selling, and I still have more than I need, but I will say everything is hooked up, gets used, and has been on at least one record. All of that said, the vintage synth and gear market has to be at an all time high, not a bad time to get out.
This topic kind of reminds me of how so many people will buy 'a' or even multiple classic cars to restore and it sits in their yard for 25 years and they die never having done anything with it. It would be better to either jump in and do it or sell the things, but I think they keep them as a dream more than anything. Honestly it's kinda sad. For me, my life motto is "only own what I use" everything else I get rid of, it makes for an efficient life and I don't have to upkeep or store a bunch of crap I don't use.
You are doing the right thing.
I felt exactly the same way! Not just I felt bad but frustrated cuz beautiful gear is collecting dust is a no no! Decided to just keep what I want to use.
@Tom
I know exactly how that feels.
Why? Because i got rid of my small studio 3 times.
Gave away instruments to people who were in need.
Yes also i walked into the room and could not give the instruments the time i felt they needed.
We were staring at eachother so to say, and only i could make a choice.
Over the past 3 years i got new gear.
All second hand, and i prommised myself only to touch them when i emotionally feel i need to connect with the world through music.
Music is emotional connection.
Wonderful in its energie and truly a state of honesty.
Perfectly logical. Best wishes!
"The absence of limitations is the enemy of art."
― Orson Welles
Woow first you've built the ultimate collection, and now you're selling it... I can't imagine a more "full circle" feeling then this. Wat een baas ben jij zeg Tom!
Hi Junkie XL. Nice move, I feel the same now, choice paralysis, I have been studying classical piano for 3 years, doing shows with different gear every time, I had sold all my studio gear in 2008 but then I had an inheritance and the pandemic isolation enticed me to buy gear again, I don’t have as mulch as you of course but it can still be a burden especially when things break down and take up space in my 1 bedroom apartment. The fact that you can sample all this gear before selling it (I always do that) will give you a magnificent super producer killer library ! I am from Montreal Canada. Cheers !
We've missed you Tom
Interesting indeed. Being a 5U modular guy, I will be most looking forward to how your modular wall is divided up. Phew, that will be work for someone. All the best!
I collected RCA ribbon microphones for many years and had them sonically restored where needed. I used them for recording and they brought me great joy, but after a while I Started using more condenser microphones In my recordings. The ribbon microphones just stayed in their cases and aside from a few favorites. They eventually were just never used so one day I just sold them all to good homes. I didn’t look back, and continued on recording. Thank you for your video
Brave ! I did the same with all my vintage computers. I now just have one synth, a CMI Series III..
Uh oh, my collection issues no longer enjoy a comparative rationalization 😬!
Good on you, Tom! May you enjoy the freedom it brings! Best wishes, Daniel 🙏🏼
You'll have to change your channel name to "Minimal XL", the recovered Junkie
Hehehe, Junkie XS
Junkie Ex-L
Junkie Pinky?
good one. maybe change it to a Junkie XnomoreAnalog
Clean XL "I'm Clean Now"
Did the same thing when I relocated. Decided to sell all my hardware - lot's of cool stuff I had collected over the years - synths, drum machines etc. Was hard at first, but after you sell the first piece it gets easy.
I've never been a collector, unless you consider fur balls from cat as a collection. I'm very zen, when ever I move from one place to another if I haven't used it in a year away it goes - it does not come with me. I have friends like you that have tons of "things" which never are used. There is freedom to not owning things, for example I'm in Los Angeles and sold my car, I just rent one when I need it as I work from home. Kudos to you for selling off your collection and doing it without need or regret.
Fans, friends, family always asked me: "why are you selling this synth? I know you liked it very much". And my answer was always: "If for the last 6 months I haven't used it, it's not good. This synth was meant for creativity, not to stay (in a collection) and collect dust." Yes, the first time when I sold a synth, was the hardest... And sometimes I just want to sell all my synths (well, almost all!) and only use some good VSTs. But as you said, writing music with hardware it's another experience level. You can almost feel the energy of the circuits inside the synth!
True, ive been thru this, But,,,,years can past, and then your like fuck I luv that 909 sound wish I had not sold it..
good luck on your new projects Thomas, amazing studio, gear is awesome, and...less is more.
I mean, realistically you have to part will all your things at some point. Better to do it while you're still alive, decide who deserves it, and appreciate that it's getting put to good use. I feel really good when I pass on something I've had for a while & see that another person is grateful to give it new home, rather than have it end up in the junk.
I can hear the pain and relief in his voice in the same time.
The world thanks you Tom!
This is the way. I have watched several folks (including myself) start to downsize the synth collections over the past year. Well done Tom. I applaud you on this direction and all the best to you and your musical direction and brand new studio. Can't wait to see it and let's get you on my podcast soon my friend.
Good luck! I just wish I could make a 'I'm selling most my VST collection' on KVR that generated as much interest. The feeling is the same.
A true legend! and massive respect for respecting the gear as much as respecting the need for less pressure to drive the creativity!
you need grammar lessons yo, nice sentiment
@@Barefoot_Joe ill consider!
this is a real something man. thank you for opening up my eyes to whats real and important in this life.
Hey Junkie! Been watching you since Alita! Love your work!
Just leave the ones that has deep memories from your heydays like a "feel good" nostalgia moment thats creeping-in in our latter years.
I think your decision is both wise and good! You will feel better, and the gear will inspire many, many musicians worldwide! Cheers man, looking forward for more studio time :)
well, i guess im bit late to catch the DX1 from you ? hehe
awesome insight here, i absolutely agree with what your saying.. i already feel similar and have only a quarter of what you have!
thank you for sharing. You so cool !
Very brave and I’d imagine, a very tough decision.
That’s beautiful, man! You’re spreading the love. (Record samples of your favorite stuff that you won’t be keeping - and you’ll always have some version of it on hand).
Good luck Tom! I have been through this myself, sometimes you need to purge gear to free your mind and creativity. It masks sense, I think it will be great for you and a whole bunch of people who will find a great new instrument!
As I get older pass 60, I feel a sense of urgency to make good music by embracing simplicity. I find myself feeling anxious when I look at the instruments I own and don't play. So I totally get what you are saying. With experience and knowledge comes a greater access to creativity and artistry which don't necessitate a lot of gear and things but more of time, space and peace of mind. The most beautiful sounds are easy to find and harvest when we stop chasing it. Good luck with your new space and spend time well in it... Life is a flicker!
Found my instrument. Got rid of the electronics. I play for me, not an audience.
My instrument is a jaw harp. FINALLY I can play MY music, not trying to play someone else's.
I am 72 years old.
You just made me cry on the inside sir. You spoke with such care of a father giving out his daughter in marriage, however this one means that you will never get to see these awesome gears again. Thanks again sir. I live in Nigeria, so I don't think it will cheaper for me to request a buy. I hope, like you said, those gears find new good homes
I fully understand this decision. I did the same thing last month, although my gear collection was quite a bit smaller than yours. I definitely feel that having less gear forces me to be more creative with what I have. Having too many options was very taxing on my writing process.
I am very exited to see what you kept.
Don't do it Mr. Junkie, you will regret it, big time. I know because I've done it many times myself and ended up re-buying almost all I've sold at a higher price. This crisis is tough on every one. Hold on tight, will be better soon. Don't do it.
Wow, I have less than .1% of his gear and I feel like I have too much! I stopped buying plugins because I was feeling overwhelmed by them. I understand the motivation behind this and good job Tom. Keep on doing wjhat you're doing :)
Excellent choice! Less things screaming at you every day means less stress and more mental freedom. Did the same thing last December - still don't regret it a bit.
This summer I got almost bankrupt (because of the corona-stockmarket crash) so I had to leave my home country and move to my girlfriend in England, because I couldn't pay the rent anymore. I had to sell all my instruments and gear. All of it. I got depressed and felt so empty. Then one day, my girlfriend came home with a cheap Gear4Music-guitar for me. That was the happiest moment for me of getting an instrument in my entire music life. Selling all your gear feels bad, but also relieving. You can start off again, just like old times. You feel more fresh. And for the first time, you know exactly what you need that's important for your upcoming music-gear. Music-life shall return!
Try connecting with your girlfriend. You won't believe what that feels like!
Totally get this, when the gear is getting in the way of creativity and causing anxiety its time for it to go. Also, I think your timing is good. There is an obsessive interest in the stuff globally at the moment with huge $$ being paid so a good time to cash out.
You're a brave soul to get rid of so much treasure. Thanks for making it available. Stoked for the sale!
Well... just know if you ever feel/felt guilty for not using all the awesome gear you own, don't forget how valuable the fact is that you have touched/inspired many people with your knowledge and love for these machines trough this youtube channel. That might be one of the most powerful things you could have done. Must be hard to give it all away an d I respect that decision, nonetheless thanks for sharing it and I hope you can still share some wonderful little facts about the gear you use every now and then. But I'm sure that we shouldn't worry about that too much.
Anyways.... grrrroetjes!
I just bought your Mutable Instruments Edges as my first eurorack module! I'm really excited to play with it and make it a well loved piece of my own studio!
Must be hard time let go of all this great gear, but I get it. Creativity is king, and getting creative with limited gear is such a great feeling.
I hope your pieces find great homes. Good luck.
I have a very modest synth collection that's taken many years to gather and am kind of glad I can't afford to get every shiny new thing that comes out. It takes ages to be able to dig into the features of any capable synth so being limited to only a few units has helped me get more confident, especially for live improvisation.
Don't sell the Jupiter's or MKS stuff! You will regret it! At least I did when I sold my Jupiter 6 years ago 😁 Anyway keep up the good work! Looking forward to the video that will show what gear you kept 😎
This was fascinating. The next video has to be what gear you decided to keep.
Oh, that's coming! ;)
@@junkiexlofficial perhaps other old vintage that you’ve not had ?
@@junkiexlofficial yyes. nice!
Hahahaha, you're so smart
Looking forward to the video on gear he decided to keep. Big fan of small studios.
Looking forward to seeing the process of the new studio build hopefully documented at its fullest : )
i want to do the exact thing and decided to sell all my gears -- only to have fact check that i don't have any valuable gears...
you Tom is my music hero and will make phenomenal musics no matter what gears you own.. salute to you..
Totally understand - it's overwhelming at times.
Think this a great move.
This is a service to the world. I wish other hoarders would follow your example. Thank you.
Dude, great move, comes directly from a great heart. Love your work, but you impress me even more whenever you show us a part of your personality. Wish you best of luck and hope you're going to achieve what you're looking for, but the way you sound leaves no doubt about that.
Sad to see you part with the stuff that took so long to collect.
Glad to see that you allow others to share a piece of history to use.
Too bad I am just seeing this right now, too bad there is no Moog gear (left ?). I am an electronics engineer and a big Moog fanboy so my motto is "Moog or mine": All synth gear is either build be me or by Moog. But it's tempting to buy one of your old VCO modules
4:51 Are you absolutely sure that you feel bad because of this ? Nowaday everyone feels bad ! Think twice, you have a relationship with each one of your instrument, be sure you won't regret any of them
I would love to own a piece of gear lovingly cared for by JunkieXL. Blessings man.
I know. Too much gear.
I got into the conclusion that i cant be concentrated with more than ~12 synth.
Too much noise in my eyes, and then u 'forget' some of them...
Yours is a joy to the eye🤩
My first thought it was because many people are cleaning house and leaving California to work remotely in a cheaper state. I know a couple composers doing that now as we speak. Hope to pick up something on the 9th :)
Thank you so much for your contributions to music and education!! I am mostly a guitar player but I'm very interested in getting into modular synthesizers. Your videos are very inspiring and I love that you're doing this for your fellow musicians!
This is exactly what I have done for the last couple of years (on a much much smaller scale of course). Get rid of the stuff that's become a burden - that slows you down - and keep the gear that excites you, makes you more agile!
AS a guitarist with guitaritis I understand the feeling of guilt. I got some great guitars I maybe played once... It's like with clothes, 80 percent of the time you wear 20 percent of your wardrobe. But when I see an instrument I like, and I fall in love I GOT to have it, even though I do not NEED it. I own a Gretsch I bought 13 years ago, such a beautiful instrument, but I just played it a few times. When I see that guitar in my studio every day I feel guilty. But they are all like my kids, I just cant part with them... So, I swallow the guilt, and take the loss... Greetings from the homeland, Tom!
Fantastic what you do and that you send a part of your beautiful collection into the wide world. 👏🏻
You know what Tom? If that's how you feel you have to do, then do it. I know how much you love and perhaps attached you are to your toys. But if you don't use instrument it'll die. So don't let them die and pass em along to those who will. You'll feel better in the end as well.
Hey man, your modular wall is so beautiful. I love looking at photos of it in the book, Patch & Tweak. Your modular collection is inspiring
There was a Hans Zimmer composers evening (available to view on Spitfire/RUclips?). They were surrounded by synth upon synth, I did wonder at that time how many were actively used, or indeed the last time they were. We are all guilty of buying new tech, and conversely, getting old tech in an attempt at reliving the memories from our youth. This is something we all have to just-do. As we get older we reevaluate what matters the most in keeping us ‘valid’. Tom, I totally respect the openness of what you have imparted to everyone (the world.). A new chapter awaits.
Best of luck with the sales and congratulations on a bold creative step! The best artists take a few left turns through their careers. I can't wait to see how culling the herd will influence your workflow and sound design!
Summary: The less is more.
You are the legend and one of the reasons I've screwed up my life choosing a music career - and I never regret it.
Thank You Thomas!
Always love your inspiring videos Tom. You could make music with two soups cans and a kazoo. Looking forward to hearing about your new studio and setup.
Tom, you shouldn't worry about hurting your gear's feelings. ;)
Best of luck.
It must be very difficult to get rid of such amazing synths after taking care for years, but you definitely are right. The focus must be in the music with all gear behind, and not in front. Many times it's so easy to get lost with all gear without making music, but music must be always the first!
I totally can under stand that you sell some of the stuff. I did this twice in the last 30 Years.Altough i gave some very good stuff aways it was a kind of relief. Last time i sold for example my Yamaha CS 30 and Jupiter 8 and some other really great synths... but it is like you say, those synths should be used instead of just heating up the room. And if we are honest, those are tools, and most of them you can easly buy again if you really miss them. As long as you have learned how to use them and now how they sound you will somehow manage do recreate those sounds in other ways too. An i love the idea that you give it away for charity!
I couldn't clap with a rhythm if my life depended on it. Yet I see that wall of knobs and my heart stops. Old knobs. Rare knobs. Priceless knobs. To be turned with bare hands. Almighty wall of knobs.
Good luck with your new smaller studio Tom ,, an Hope the movie business recovers from this corona situation
Awesome video thank you for this. I have a lot of gear myself and I feel the same way at times. I also started to thin the herd it’s hard but I get to appreciate the gear I keep. Stay safe Godspeed
Man I feel that. Sold all my Yamaha Reface months ago because I'm not using it enough, glad the new owner actually a full time musician and make a better use of it than sitting under my desk all the time.
I understand you perfectly. In 2020 I have sold: Moog grandmother, Elektron Digitakt, Roland TR-09, Roland JU-06 and something else, precisely because I felt that I was not taking advantage of it and I was very sorry. Now I work with my old Roland XP-30, an SP-404A, the iPad and the computer with Reason. I don't need more. I know it is not comparable to your situation or your study, but I understand the feeling you are talking about.
Which charity/charities will he donating all the proceeds to?
Some will go to Pediatric Cancer Foundation
@@fishfantasyumiumi That's great to hear, maybe I overlooked/skipped that part as I wasn't aware, appreciate the info and glad it's going towards something very positive.
That's the reason why I love the One Synth Challenge (google it!). MAN, I am glad to see that this feeling of too much gear can even get to people like JunkieXL. Only I am overwhelmed with much less already :)
I signed up I'm a broke musician. Not a collector probably cant afford anything but telling my bandmates maybe we can pool together and get a couple pedals or a synth machine if theres an affordable one. But I'm with yall they deserve to be in museums or collectors hands but man i wish i could see actual bands creating with all these goodies. I just hope the junkie himself signs all the gear so people will know it was his. What an amazing creator and artist. Guys like me at least would have a cool story explaining the gear and where we got it and how.
This takes a serious amount of guts to do. Sheesh. I dont even have a half of a quarter of what you have and still find it hard to get rid of a few things. Less is definitely more and there are companies praying on people with G.A.S.! This message is cool and right on time. I REALLY love the intent and where the money is going.
Good for you, growth requires change.
As many of us know, restricted options can increase focus and unleash creativity.
As a gear collector myself, I have enjoyed you sharing your collection, with us.
Wish these kind of things were available, to check out from our local library 😄
I have found myself at a comfortable level, but still enjoy playing with a new toy, once in a while.
Every now and then, I take a lode of unused stuff to the consignment shop, and if feels great.
Best wishes for you continued success, and thanks for sharing your jurney
I'm overwhelmed with my EPM12 and less than a dozen synths plus a few guitars and pedals. Cannot fathom getting one's head around your setup. Very keen to see what you are getting rid of.
it's a phase, and it comes from outside.. no need to react. keep your stuff
Tom, ik begrijp dit zo. Heb de afgelopen jaren ook veel verkocht (Polymoog, Multimoog, Emulator II en III....) en het voelt alsof je mentaal overgewicht kwijtraakt. En je hebt er volgens mij ontzettend veel plezier aan beleefd :) Hartelijke groet Peter Sijbenga
I'm sure you can make great music with a toothpick and a rock, the gear is just a tool but the talent and creativity you have is priceless.
Oh god, I'm sad and understanding at the same time! Great channel Tom; love the content.
So humble!
Tom what are the chances you will end up with twice as much virtual synths and plugs than you have hardware gear? At that point is it just the dilemma of it being physical space-taking equipment that requires maintenance vs software that has no capacitors to replace? If your plugin sits in your drive unused for months, does the virtual state remove the feelings of responsibility to it? Like A.I. friends vs Breathing friends? Can't wait to see your new setup!
m.ruclips.net/video/zbjjEd7rhG4/видео.html