First hardware synth, nova or microkorg possibly?

[paradox11235]

The ex-synth player for my current band is looking at putting together an electronic project and needs someone to play bass (my main musical talent) and i'm thinking about getting a hardware synth for parts that my electric bass just won't cut it for, so something with good pad/bass ability. I've dabbled in production (logic and cubase) so i'm fairly comfortable with MIDI, so a desktop module isn't out of the question. I would prefer something with a good built in keyboard that would double as a good MIDI controller, but if i had to by something like an M-audio keystation i wouldn't be too put off. From what i've read i've been thinking a novation nova II or a microkorg or something might be a good starting point. I'd prefer to keep my purchase around $200 or under (i know the named synths could be quite a bit more, but i'm looking at used and whatnot), but if i find something fantastic i'd probably blow a bit more. Seen a couple of random vintage '80s synths on craigslist that looked intriguing for the price, i know they wouldn't exactly be stellar MIDI machines though. I'd like to avoid rackmount, want a good modeling synth. Any suggestions?

[computron]

a microkorg would be perfect for your needs and a mighty VA in its own right.same synth as the ms2000 minus the mod sequencer but it has a better arp where you can tap notes in and out in a very fun way.I say micro korg would be great for you .I have alot synths and think the mico korgs rocks as synth and as a controler( I have no issue with the tinny keys).

[paradox11235]

Thanks for the input, i was kind of leaning that way just because they seem a lot easier to find. May still grab a simple controller at some point just for more octaves, but i'll keep my eye out for a microkorg.

[computron]

more octaves are only a button away up or down

[paradox11235]

For my immediate purposes the keys would probably be fine, but for anything else i like to be able to play on several octaves at once

[Stab Frenzy]

I would prefer something with a good built in keyboard that would double as a good MIDI controller

That rules out the Microkorg.

Honestly, $200 isn't much at all for a synth, it's not even that much for a pedal. Save up for longer and get something like an R3, MS2000, etc. It's cheaper to buy an MS2000 now than to buy a Microkorg now and a Keystation later.

[loungedumore]

Micron or Miniak -
Pro's : 37 keys full size keys , more complex sound engine , more low end too IMHO
Cons : Less knobs - but not by much

New they are 349 and 399 respectively so used I would imagine you could find them use for as low as half maybe .

[paradox11235]

Like i said, if i find something i really like i'd probably spend more... i figured $200 for a synth to start out with wouldn't be too bad.

[Ashe37]

You *can* find a Micron for $200. A Nova, not as often. I got my Nova for a lil more than that and it ain't goin nowheres

[sequence]

I gotta shamelessly plug the MS2000. I dont know of any VA modeler where so many have sold theirs, and regretted it, including me. I finally scored a 2000B on eBay after 8 attempts (too many snipe-bots out there making it tough for us human snipes ) It is a very versatile and deep synth, and TERRIFIC for newbies to subtractive synthesis--however, if U want a 44-key model (2000 or 2000B) be prepared to pay for it, because they are very popular right now and supply is scant. However, the rack model (2000R or 2000BR) is a little cheaper and much more available; team that up with a 61-key controller a MIDI cable and there U go. People talk about how "thin" and "brittle" the MS2000 sounds but obviously they don't know squat about programming and sound-shaping.

They are also built like tanks and hold up very well to road rigors.

Other good possibilities include the Roland JP-8000, Nord Lead, or Yamaha An1X. Along with the MS2000 and the Novas/Supernovas, they were the first (and best IMO) analog modelers, the last great synths of the 20th century. good luck

[stephen]

Other good possibilities include the Roland JP-8000, Nord Lead, or Yamaha An1X. Along with the MS2000 and the Novas/Supernovas, they were the first (and best IMO) analog modelers, the last great synths of the 20th century.

Ahh, the 'VA' era I had a microkorg, nova and an1x; in the end I kept the an1x, it provides the right balance I was looking for.

I spotted some clown on ebay last week selling a nova desktop module ("rare"!) for £350!!