Yuki, thx for allowing us to stray off topic somewhat, I know this is about the T5, however you encourage us to discuss synths with a healthy approach, kudos to you.
I'm a big fan of noise as a modulation source, and I'm glad someone finally tackled this in more detail. I had a chance to try out the Take 5 a couple of months ago and I think I've finally found the polysynth that suits me. Lots of character in a very versatile synth. I must say that the overdrive also blew me away, and the low split is so far the best option for a smaller keyboard.
I just got one last week. It’s still in the box cause I haven’t had time to explore. But I loved the sound of the T5 when I played with one at a local Guitar Center. Beautiful analog sound
It’s October 2024 as I write. I took delivery of a Hydrasynth Explorer back in June. I was also tempted by this model (and since become tempted by the TEO-5 - or as I affectionately dub it “Thomas Elroy Oberheim Five”). I chose the Explorer for the combination of its portability and its patchability, but I’m still tempted to get this (or TEO-5). Since the beginning of 2004, I’ve owned four analog polyphonics (turning loose of one 9 years later), all of which have been DCO synths and none of which have had per-function front panels (barring the Roland JX8p’s programmer). The idea of getting to purchase a new VCO polyphonic with a per-function front panel for a within-reach price point makes the head spin.
@@YukiTheSynthDragon It's such a smart implementation of the Poly Mod concept. I like the way that it works on the Prophet 5 too, but the fact that you can do it with many more destinations and keep both oscillators in the mix here is pretty awesome.
I keep meaning to pick one of these up. I've got the mopho x4 and some tetras so I don't have the urgency that I would otherwise, but the Take 5 checks all my boxes, def. better than the X4, especially with that all important extra note.
Have you ever polychain X4 with the Tetr4s...? Anyways, I would go with the TEO-5 since, like you, I've got a bunch of Curtis filtered synths (Tetr4, P12m & 2xMatrix-1k)...
Great review. Thanks! I am a full time DJ with a background in jazz piano. People have been after me for years to combine my DJ work with synth. I am a beginner on synths, so would need something with full-sized keys with as-simple-as-possible methods of locating killer lead sounds during a live performance. I have looked at Korg mulipoly which seems pretty cool too, but no aftertouch which I'm not sure is critical for live performance. Any recommendations from your experience?
Take 5 or teo would be my recommendation. The build quality is miles better on the take 5 and teo and the keybed is super nice vs the Korg. Plus they are both way easier to get a usable sound out of quickly.
The Take 5 is my favorite too. Anytime I turn my rig on I tend to play the Take 5 more than any other. With that mod matrix there are plenty of happy accidents to be found, and it just sounds fantastic. I actually like the reverb on it, though I’m sure your pedals can do reverb way better. Try routing LFO 1 to reverb predelay to add some life to the reverb. I know you said you’re not big into mono synths, but the Take 5 does really well as a mono too.
Reverb on Take 5 is actually amazing and stands well against Eventide and similar pedals. I know because I have them :) Maybe not so much options as on pedals but the spatial quality is there...
I recently just sold mine and I liked it! Had a hard time parting with it but I think I plan on replacing it with the P6. I only really used the global LFO on the T5 though.
I'm not in love with mine, but I got it for a steal with display plastic still intact. When I have more room, I will bring out the T5, Pro 3 and get a TEO 5 for that trifecta of format. I paid the same as my Deepmind 12D, so who's to argue that it's not great value. I'm shipping back my S6 and getting a 3rd Wave, which is more inline with my music. S6 is good, just not what I would continue to use. All in all though, T5 is a keeper, has a stellar keybed and format is desk friendly. Thx for the upload.
@@dankeplace ah! Yeah i had the super gemini and even after initially loving it, overall it was weirdly limited in many ways. Didn’t really work out too
@@neuronist "If" you have money to own one and have other gear, it's a good synth to have, but in my case, it was supposed to be a game changer, it became more of a side move than a forward push, which is where I want to explore further possibilities with my music. This is why I decided on the 3rd Wave, it's just more suited to my needs. I wont take anything away from it that it doesn't sound good, because it has great sound, just that the sound is not as flexible as the 3rd Wave for my needs.
Killer video! Have thought about getting one of these or a TEO5 recently…. But my Moog Muse arrived today, so that’s where the money is tied up right now I’ve even thought about flipping my OB-6Keys for the more versatile TEO5… but can just never pull the trigger Keep up the awesome vids and discussion Cheers 🍻
You will love the MUSE, I think it's the perfect 70s machine but with a modern twist. What they've done with this is brilliant imo, I am just culling my keyboards as I don't play keys.
@@dankeplace yeah, so far I’m loving it… but haven’t had a ton of time today with it yet. But it just seems to be resonating with me quite well already 😍
@@dankeplace it seemed that way to me too. Yet it feels unfinished in so many ways, it’s weird really when using it. I think they may have rushed this out quite a bit
@@aloraliquid I think Moog have suddenly moved from reissues to becoming a modern footprint in music industry. You can only reissue gear for so long before people tire of same ole same same. Look forwards to you uploading some music.
@@neuronist everything is rushed these days, that's the way of how society functions now unfortunately. I think I waited 49 years before I got my 1st synth, I would say I am one of the more patient ones, but there is a limit to my patience too lol.
I’ve got a pro 3 absolutely love every thing about it. Build, feel, sound, everything. Outside of the obvious, how do these compare and what’s your take on the pro 3 ?
Very cool. I'm still far more interested in the Teo-5 though. I prefer the character of the filter, even if it is less versatile. It would really hurt, but I'm tempted to seriously consider one. I would love to explore what the sequencer can do (parameter only style) and see if it talks to Reaper without midi feedback on clock. Thanks for the video.
Im new to synths and would like to buy my first one. Could somebody explain me what is the difference between this and Teo-5? Which one would you recommend of these two? Great videos and playing, thanks!
The sound will be the major difference. This is caused by both the filter differences and the way the oscillators are implemented. If you like the sound of one over the other, go with the one that’s sounds best to you.
I've thought about selling off some of my gear (even my Hydra) for either this or the TEO...based on what I've heard so far, I think the filter on the Take 5 is more my taste, but I wouldn't turn down the opportunity to finally play an Obie of any kind
Beatiful Presentation! Noticed you got the new faceplate already, where the display looks like on the teo-5 and some prints on the panel represent the take 5 2.0 update. Also would be interesting if there where some under the hood changes or if this is just a cosmetic update. Mind sharing the serial number so we can estimate when those changes where made?
@@YukiTheSynthDragon Ty for the quick reply! read on gearslu -space that, like you mentioned, the panel wobble was also eliminated on the newer, china manufactured, units. So there obv are some small upgrades.
Prophet 5 is quite beefier in sound but Take 5 is way more versatile with all digital stuff going on, mod matrix and so on... P5 seems like a one trick pony but it does that one thing way better than all, also it's built way better than T5, like a tank while T5 is a bit on the cheap side... I choose T5 tho, because of the versatility...
When you get the teo5 can you please compare it directly to the trigon 6? These are the 2 synths I'm on the fence about. I like both synth leads (favors the trigon with that distortion and feedback) and synthwave stuff (favors the teo5 with that filter). If I could just get a second variable state filter on the trigon 6 on top of the ladder... Decisions decisions... There never seems to be a perfect well rounded analog poly hehe.
@@YukiTheSynthDragon thanks for considering it! I'm especially interested in the differences between their drive/feedback/distortion in the context of a prog rock type lead. And if the digital high pass + analog ladder of the trigon can get me to similar results as the variable filter on the teo. And a "tom sawyer test" of their vintage knobs would be nice too! And a cup of coffee, please Am I asking too much?
ya, after watching bunches of teo5 videos, i'm starting to wonder if it isnt 90% redundant to the take5, which has been in constant use with the gaia2. it boils down to the filter if it is similar. i love my korg rompler-based workstations(kromeEX73, x50, wavestate) but i never liked the korg minilogue/monolog/prolog analog sounds like they are all too thin to me, or something. fwiw, my take5 feels like it could survive serious abuse BUT the top row of knobs is too close to the top edge of the case for casual carrying. so i got the gaia2 case with the gaia2, for the take5 haha. gaia2 doesnt need a case so much. ps, i got some rockit 10-3 monitors for my synths. i can heartily recommend them for insane budget monitors for synths ($800/pr sweetwater, ya $800 IS budget these days)
@@Paul-mf7zx i am loving the 2 synths together. the gaia2 is so digital with really sick performance features and the take5 is the rich and chocolatey analog yumminess. they are so different and that is what is making them so fun. they are my 2 top dogs out of my whole pile of noise toys.
@@Paul-mf7zx i want to add that my 3rd fav synth is my uno synth pro desktop. super powered mono synth: 3osc, DUAL FILTERS! for all that matriarch fun except i got it for $269 on sale from sweetwater like 1.5yr ago. workflow, sequencer and effects are all really good and i like the uno filters. this has bass comparable to grandmother and imo, better than barp2600+dm12. if i had to start over today, these would be my 3 synths (take5 poly, uno pro mono, gaia2 digital)
I have a similar combo with the pro 3 and a gaia 2. Very underrated synth the gaia 2. It's just a shame it isn't bigger with aftertouch although the keybed is excellent.
Lol faraway for being the best synth, even if it has a great modulation engine most of the time the tone was not pleasing to my ears and the gain stage was not musical, a lot of post production was need it
Yes it should. Favorite claims "best suited for my particular use case and taste, for now." "Best" claims objectivity. That's why it's silly to say someone is wrong because they have an opinion.
Yuki, thx for allowing us to stray off topic somewhat, I know this is about the T5, however you encourage us to discuss synths with a healthy approach, kudos to you.
the take 5 sounded so beautiful when I demoed it last year at knobcon. Eventually I'll probably get one. Great to hear what you've made with it :)
I'm a big fan of noise as a modulation source, and I'm glad someone finally tackled this in more detail. I had a chance to try out the Take 5 a couple of months ago and I think I've finally found the polysynth that suits me. Lots of character in a very versatile synth. I must say that the overdrive also blew me away, and the low split is so far the best option for a smaller keyboard.
I just got one last week. It’s still in the box cause I haven’t had time to explore. But I loved the sound of the T5 when I played with one at a local Guitar Center. Beautiful analog sound
i o u a beer. i never thought to go apesh!t with noise as a mod source, but wowie zowie batman, it's like a whole new chapter of take5 for me.
It’s October 2024 as I write. I took delivery of a Hydrasynth Explorer back in June. I was also tempted by this model (and since become tempted by the TEO-5 - or as I affectionately dub it “Thomas Elroy Oberheim Five”). I chose the Explorer for the combination of its portability and its patchability, but I’m still tempted to get this (or TEO-5). Since the beginning of 2004, I’ve owned four analog polyphonics (turning loose of one 9 years later), all of which have been DCO synths and none of which have had per-function front panels (barring the Roland JX8p’s programmer). The idea of getting to purchase a new VCO polyphonic with a per-function front panel for a within-reach price point makes the head spin.
Once I really started digging into this thing, I realized how amazing the poly LFO is. I wish all synths had one.
It's not all that common in analog synths for sure
@@YukiTheSynthDragon It's such a smart implementation of the Poly Mod concept. I like the way that it works on the Prophet 5 too, but the fact that you can do it with many more destinations and keep both oscillators in the mix here is pretty awesome.
I keep meaning to pick one of these up. I've got the mopho x4 and some tetras so I don't have the urgency that I would otherwise, but the Take 5 checks all my boxes, def. better than the X4, especially with that all important extra note.
Have you ever polychain X4 with the Tetr4s...?
Anyways, I would go with the TEO-5 since, like you, I've got a bunch of Curtis filtered synths (Tetr4, P12m & 2xMatrix-1k)...
You help me with my ride in to work happy to see this synth be your favorite but I’m buying a muse
Great review. Thanks! I am a full time DJ with a background in jazz piano. People have been after me for years to combine my DJ work with synth. I am a beginner on synths, so would need something with full-sized keys with as-simple-as-possible methods of locating killer lead sounds during a live performance. I have looked at Korg mulipoly which seems pretty cool too, but no aftertouch which I'm not sure is critical for live performance. Any recommendations from your experience?
Take 5 or teo would be my recommendation. The build quality is miles better on the take 5 and teo and the keybed is super nice vs the Korg. Plus they are both way easier to get a usable sound out of quickly.
much appreciated.
The Take 5 is my favorite too. Anytime I turn my rig on I tend to play the Take 5 more than any other. With that mod matrix there are plenty of happy accidents to be found, and it just sounds fantastic. I actually like the reverb on it, though I’m sure your pedals can do reverb way better. Try routing LFO 1 to reverb predelay to add some life to the reverb.
I know you said you’re not big into mono synths, but the Take 5 does really well as a mono too.
Reverb on Take 5 is actually amazing and stands well against Eventide and similar pedals. I know because I have them :) Maybe not so much options as on pedals but the spatial quality is there...
I agree...and I have seen so much shit talking on the effects in general on Synth RUclips and I think it's insane
I recently just sold mine and I liked it! Had a hard time parting with it but I think I plan on replacing it with the P6. I only really used the global LFO on the T5 though.
Why did you sell it if it’s so amazing?
@ replaced it with the TEO5 bc I liked the Oberheim sound more
I'm not in love with mine, but I got it for a steal with display plastic still intact.
When I have more room, I will bring out the T5, Pro 3 and get a TEO 5 for that trifecta of format.
I paid the same as my Deepmind 12D, so who's to argue that it's not great value.
I'm shipping back my S6 and getting a 3rd Wave, which is more inline with my music.
S6 is good, just not what I would continue to use.
All in all though, T5 is a keeper, has a stellar keybed and format is desk friendly.
Thx for the upload.
Whats the s6?
@@neuronist Oh sorry, UDO Super 6.
@@dankeplace ah! Yeah i had the super gemini and even after initially loving it, overall it was weirdly limited in many ways. Didn’t really work out too
@@neuronist "If" you have money to own one and have other gear, it's a good synth to have, but in my case, it was supposed to be a game changer, it became more of a side move than a forward push, which is where I want to explore further possibilities with my music.
This is why I decided on the 3rd Wave, it's just more suited to my needs.
I wont take anything away from it that it doesn't sound good, because it has great sound, just that the sound is not as flexible as the 3rd Wave for my needs.
@@dankeplace 3rd Wave seems like a Beast of a Synth.
Killer video!
Have thought about getting one of these or a TEO5 recently….
But my Moog Muse arrived today, so that’s where the money is tied up right now
I’ve even thought about flipping my OB-6Keys for the more versatile TEO5… but can just never pull the trigger
Keep up the awesome vids and discussion
Cheers 🍻
You will love the MUSE, I think it's the perfect 70s machine but with a modern twist.
What they've done with this is brilliant imo, I am just culling my keyboards as I don't play keys.
@@dankeplace yeah, so far I’m loving it… but haven’t had a ton of time today with it yet. But it just seems to be resonating with me quite well already 😍
@@dankeplace it seemed that way to me too. Yet it feels unfinished in so many ways, it’s weird really when using it. I think they may have rushed this out quite a bit
@@aloraliquid I think Moog have suddenly moved from reissues to becoming a modern footprint in music industry.
You can only reissue gear for so long before people tire of same ole same same.
Look forwards to you uploading some music.
@@neuronist everything is rushed these days, that's the way of how society functions now unfortunately.
I think I waited 49 years before I got my 1st synth, I would say I am one of the more patient ones, but there is a limit to my patience too lol.
I’ve got a pro 3 absolutely love every thing about it. Build, feel, sound, everything.
Outside of the obvious, how do these compare and what’s your take on the pro 3 ?
I have never used a sequential paraphonic or mono synth so not sure. I mean it’s looks and sounds versatile enough.
opening piece = Nice!
I love when noise can be used as a modulation source. I think it behaves noticeably different than snh with a fast rate but that could just be me.
Very cool. I'm still far more interested in the Teo-5 though. I prefer the character of the filter, even if it is less versatile. It would really hurt, but I'm tempted to seriously consider one. I would love to explore what the sequencer can do (parameter only style) and see if it talks to Reaper without midi feedback on clock. Thanks for the video.
Have you had any issues with it freezing or losing tune? Great video btw
No issues, been solid.
Im new to synths and would like to buy my first one. Could somebody explain me what is the difference between this and Teo-5? Which one would you recommend of these two? Great videos and playing, thanks!
The sound will be the major difference. This is caused by both the filter differences and the way the oscillators are implemented. If you like the sound of one over the other, go with the one that’s sounds best to you.
I've thought about selling off some of my gear (even my Hydra) for either this or the TEO...based on what I've heard so far, I think the filter on the Take 5 is more my taste, but I wouldn't turn down the opportunity to finally play an Obie of any kind
How would you compare the Take - 5 & the TEO - 5? I'm so torn...
Check out the video I did on it recently. I compared both directly.
So waiting for the TEO-5 review
My unit hasn’t shipped yet unfortunately
@@YukiTheSynthDragon Subbed with notifications :)
Beatiful Presentation!
Noticed you got the new faceplate already, where the display looks like on the teo-5 and some prints on the panel represent the take 5 2.0 update.
Also would be interesting if there where some under the hood changes or if this is just a cosmetic update.
Mind sharing the serial number so we can estimate when those changes where made?
5086, I know the manufacturing moved to China from the us with my unit for sure.
@@YukiTheSynthDragon Ty for the quick reply!
read on gearslu -space that, like you mentioned, the panel wobble was also eliminated on the newer, china manufactured, units. So there obv are some small upgrades.
How does it stack against the Prophet 5?
I do hear the nymphes in this, had no clue they used the same oscillator
Not sure, never owned one
Prophet 5 is quite beefier in sound but Take 5 is way more versatile with all digital stuff going on, mod matrix and so on... P5 seems like a one trick pony but it does that one thing way better than all, also it's built way better than T5, like a tank while T5 is a bit on the cheap side... I choose T5 tho, because of the versatility...
Take 5 is currently my favourite hardware synth, and has been for the last year. Teo-5 is on my radar. Have you looked at a Matriarch?
Im more into fully polyphonic synths so not too big into the matriarch
@@YukiTheSynthDragon [ idle "musing" goes here ] 😁
@@jjrusy7438 I would have but no room for something that big atm
I had one and did not like it. Didn't like the sound and hated the way the knobs felt.
I love both the sound and how the knobs feel. The feel like the knobs on the trigon 6.
I love the sound, perfect for mellow stuff. But I would agree on the build quality. The knobs are okayish, but that bending front plate is meh...
More Trigon videos please.
Thanks for the video - but what's an MB? "Guys Gals and MBs"".
Nb = non binary
When you get the teo5 can you please compare it directly to the trigon 6? These are the 2 synths I'm on the fence about.
I like both synth leads (favors the trigon with that distortion and feedback) and synthwave stuff (favors the teo5 with that filter).
If I could just get a second variable state filter on the trigon 6 on top of the ladder...
Decisions decisions... There never seems to be a perfect well rounded analog poly hehe.
I will see if I can. I will try and make space to shoot the video.
@@YukiTheSynthDragon thanks for considering it! I'm especially interested in the differences between their drive/feedback/distortion in the context of a prog rock type lead. And if the digital high pass + analog ladder of the trigon can get me to similar results as the variable filter on the teo.
And a "tom sawyer test" of their vintage knobs would be nice too!
And a cup of coffee, please
Am I asking too much?
ya, after watching bunches of teo5 videos, i'm starting to wonder if it isnt 90% redundant to the take5, which has been in constant use with the gaia2. it boils down to the filter if it is similar. i love my korg rompler-based workstations(kromeEX73, x50, wavestate) but i never liked the korg minilogue/monolog/prolog analog sounds like they are all too thin to me, or something.
fwiw, my take5 feels like it could survive serious abuse BUT the top row of knobs is too close to the top edge of the case for casual carrying. so i got the gaia2 case with the gaia2, for the take5 haha. gaia2 doesnt need a case so much. ps, i got some rockit 10-3 monitors for my synths. i can heartily recommend them for insane budget monitors for synths ($800/pr sweetwater, ya $800 IS budget these days)
How do you like the gaia2 to take5?
@@Paul-mf7zx i am loving the 2 synths together. the gaia2 is so digital with really sick performance features and the take5 is the rich and chocolatey analog yumminess. they are so different and that is what is making them so fun. they are my 2 top dogs out of my whole pile of noise toys.
@@Paul-mf7zx i want to add that my 3rd fav synth is my uno synth pro desktop. super powered mono synth: 3osc, DUAL FILTERS! for all that matriarch fun except i got it for $269 on sale from sweetwater like 1.5yr ago. workflow, sequencer and effects are all really good and i like the uno filters. this has bass comparable to grandmother and imo, better than barp2600+dm12. if i had to start over today, these would be my 3 synths (take5 poly, uno pro mono, gaia2 digital)
@@jjrusy7438 thank you! Yes, I like both but can only afford one for now.
I have a similar combo with the pro 3 and a gaia 2. Very underrated synth the gaia 2. It's just a shame it isn't bigger with aftertouch although the keybed is excellent.
Try this patch on a Super 6! Thanks me later! 😉
Not really interested, the peak is my favorite hybrid synth.
@@YukiTheSynthDragon sort of directed to anyone who has one but ok haha
Lol faraway for being the best synth, even if it has a great modulation engine most of the time the tone was not pleasing to my ears and the gain stage was not musical, a lot of post production was need it
There's a pretty big difference between "favorite" and "best."
@@ReinoRankaisija That difference shouldnt be that big. Especially if he aint saying, for this price this is his favorite.
Yes it should. Favorite claims "best suited for my particular use case and taste, for now."
"Best" claims objectivity.
That's why it's silly to say someone is wrong because they have an opinion.