Vintage Synth Explorer Forums

Hi, I'm about to buy my first synth. I have different options and need a hand from you as I'm new into this machines.

Yamaha DX7 ($100 CAD): The guy that's selling this one lives a little bit far from where I am, that's a problem because that implies time and some money, you tell me if it's worth it.

Korg DS-8 ($200 CAD): This one is closer to where I live.

Korg Wavestation Ex ($375 CAD).

And now some questions and doubts:

I wonder if these synths can produce more modern sounds, something like this:


This doubt came to me because, for example, the DX7 is an 80's synth, and I really don't want THAT 80's sound (Aha, depeche mode, phil collins, etc).

Also, can I use any of these as a midi controller?

Finally, I also have the option of the Microkorg ($370 CAD), but i've heard you can only play 4 notes simultaneously wich is a shame. Would be this option better for me? Considering that I'm a beginner into synthesizers maybe a lot of knobs would work better for me rather than a small screen (microkorg vs the other three)

Thank you in advance,
Fungy.

You can't divide synths between 'old' and 'modern' when it comes to sound. It all depends on the one who's using it. I could use an old CS80 in an entirely modern context, while I could use the most recent sample libraries to produce 80's cheese. The only things that are probably dated are presets, but that's where synths come in: create your own stuff!

FM is not all that simple though, if all you have is a DX7 or similar synth. Which is why tons o' people used presets.. which is why it may sound dated.

An alternative, which I could recommend to beginners, is to start with software (tons o' free VST's out there that should get your started). After you've delved into synthesis you'll know which one works best for you. Based on that you can choose a hardware synth that looks/sounds like it. The advantage is that with software usually all the parameters are on your screen so that it's far more clear what everything does. Especially for FM this is most welcome.., and far more educative than a two-line display on a DX7.