500$ gear to add layers to my MEK

[Ludoooo]

I got a Mono evolver Keyboard as my first synth 8 months ago. I since learned the basics and had good use of the synth. I now want to add one or two hardware pieces to to add some details to my sound :
-polyphony : I'd like to be able to play some pads, some chords
-effects : adding some effects to the overall music
-new tones : I don't want to have a piece that will sound too similar to my MEK

I want it to be hardware since it's for live and practice purpose. I'll have DAW aswell but i'ts not the point here. I was thiking of maybe a little VA synth for the polyphony and different tones (microkorg, R3, Miniak...), or maybe a rakmount MS-2000. And then adding a Kaoss Pad for effects. What do you think?? Have any other suggestion?

I think a Kaossilator would'nt be useful since I'll be using my MEK for leads and bass.

[Rick N Boogie]

I use a MEK as my main synth, but also a Virus kb for polyphony and as a 2nd synth. I also use normal "guitar" effects pedals to great effect. One of my bandmates has the Korg R3, and that sounds pretty cool too, so not a bad option.

[tallowwaters]

In the field of your considerations, I used an R3 with my MEK for years (still have the R3). I've always found it to excel at glassy, bell like tones and nice warmish to fizzy pads. It also doubles as an awesome FX unit, with up to 3 chainable effects (covering all the useful FX of the Kaoss Pad with actual controllable parameters).

[megamanx]

+1 on the r3 or radias R, I have owned both and sound really good and have good effects and polyphony. I have tallows MEK.

[Stab Frenzy]

Maybe a Blofeld?

[SSquirrel]

Maybe a Blofeld?

That was going to be my suggestion. I saw some for under $500 on Ebay yesterday.

[Ludoooo]

Thanks for your answers. I'm now also considering a Oto Biscuit : http://www.otomachines.com/biscuit.html

[Stab Frenzy]

Thanks for your answers. I'm now also considering a Oto Biscuit : http://www.otomachines.com/biscuit.html

It's not a synth.

[Ludoooo]

Thanks for your answers. I'm now also considering a Oto Biscuit : http://www.otomachines.com/biscuit.html

It's not a synth.

It is, when you download the new OS! But i'm mainly considering it as an effects processor. But I should maybe spend the money on something else (R3, Blofeld?), since the distortion/bitcrusher effects are pretty solid on my MEK anyway.

[Angstwulf]

I use a MEK as my main synth, but also a Virus kb for polyphony and as a 2nd synth. I also use normal "guitar" effects pedals to great effect. One of my bandmates has the Korg R3, and that sounds pretty cool too, so not a bad option.

+1 on the Virus.

Don't forget, a Virus is also a pretty powerful effects processors in its own right.

[c-level]

am i really the only one whod reccomend an sh201? good poly features, supersaw, simple pitch env, portamento, mix/ring/sync, the filters not great but it does good with a slow lfo

[Angstwulf]

am i really the only one whod reccomend an sh201? good poly features, supersaw, simple pitch env, portamento, mix/ring/sync, the filters not great but it does good with a slow lfo

It's a capable synth but the OP could get a used Virus B/Classic or a desktop Blofeld or a Nord Lead Rack within his budget all of which offer way more than the 201.

To the OP: if you are comfortable using your MEK as the controller for your second synth and don't think you'll be doing on-stage patch tweaking have you considered a used ROMpler module like a Motif rack or even a Command Station? Those sound purty and will really widen your palette.