Hi guys, I read a few of the threads here and realise how annoying these questions can get. I don't want you guys to make the decision for me, just maybe suggest a few synths that I could then try out and choose from.
I'm trying to spend around $2000, possibly a little more but not much. I'm looking for a polyphonic keyboard synth, preferably with weighted keys (at least 61), probably digital (but I don't mind newer analog, just don't want it to keep breaking down). I make electronic music, somewhat experimental, but I'm looking for a versatile synth that I can potentially use for anything. I have a lot of experience with software synths, I go to school for this stuff, so I don't really mind having to do intense programming to get the sounds out of it. A vocoder would be a plus.
What do you guys think? From what I've read the Prophet seems to be a solid choice, but it doesn't have weighted keys. The Radias also seems interesting, but I'm not clear on what exactly it shares with the MS2000, is it only the design? Does it sound much like it? Some Kurzweil synths are also around the price range and have weighted keys, but I've never really tried them or know of too many people who use them, perhaps you can enlighten me.
Thank you.
Can you suggest a synth for me?
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Re: Can you suggest a synth for me?
If you consider semi-weighted keys, you'll have more options. That is, unless you get a fully weighted controller + sound module combo instead. That might be the way to go if you're strict about the keys.
Prophet sounds like a good choice but you might want to consider a used Poly Evolver if you can find one within $2k. The digital waveforms might add more options as far as experimental is concerned. Only semi-weighted keys I think.
I have a Radias and though I have issues with it, it might also be a good option because of its very knobby and immediate interface, affordability in rack format, lots of effects, and has PCM waveforms. It's basically an MS2000 on steroids (but I prefer the sound engine on the MS2000). I've grown to dislike MMT. Still, not a bad option pound for pound.
I've never tried a Kurzweil, but my guess is that even if it's super powerful, it may not be as good for experimental as a knobby synth where it's easier to create new sounds accidentally? But maybe it depends on your style of experimental music. Kurzweils seem reeaally powerful.
Prophet sounds like a good choice but you might want to consider a used Poly Evolver if you can find one within $2k. The digital waveforms might add more options as far as experimental is concerned. Only semi-weighted keys I think.
I have a Radias and though I have issues with it, it might also be a good option because of its very knobby and immediate interface, affordability in rack format, lots of effects, and has PCM waveforms. It's basically an MS2000 on steroids (but I prefer the sound engine on the MS2000). I've grown to dislike MMT. Still, not a bad option pound for pound.
I've never tried a Kurzweil, but my guess is that even if it's super powerful, it may not be as good for experimental as a knobby synth where it's easier to create new sounds accidentally? But maybe it depends on your style of experimental music. Kurzweils seem reeaally powerful.