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OTHER DISCUSSIONS => General Synthesis => Off Topic => Topic started by: cr73645 on November 19, 2015, 07:32:55 AM

Title: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: cr73645 on November 19, 2015, 07:32:55 AM
Ignoring everything stated here before, I have some predictions:
- A new analog poly (4-6 voices) with an accessible price, non-DSI stuff;
- Few mini-keys cheap synths, since they sell a lot;
- Some updates for newer machines, with great new features;
- Maybe a Virus TI3, just maybe;
- New series of Volca instruments, covering some other ground, maybe with 32 step seq;
- A lot of software;
- A few very expensive toys that no one will ever buy, or never go to production;
- A lot of cheap unusable stuff, as aways.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on December 18, 2015, 02:56:24 PM
I've read today that Korg is going to reproduce a limited run of the 2600.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on December 18, 2015, 02:58:47 PM
I've read today that Korg is going to reproduce a limited run of the 2600.

Paul, you're not trying to torture me, are you? 

Okay...and here it goes.  Um...and the key size?  Please, no....
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on December 18, 2015, 03:01:29 PM
I've read today that Korg is going to reproduce a limited run of the 2600.

Paul, you're not trying to torture me, are you? 

Okay...and here it goes.  Um...and the key size?  Please, no....

Always, Tim, always…  ;D

Just read it on Matrixsynth. It's only a rumor. But I remember a while back - probably last summer - Korg placed a teaser pic online that was indicating a limited edition of something. The production run was supposed to be 3000. And that number reappeared in the rumor.

Voilŕ: http://www.matrixsynth.com/2015/12/and-first-namm-rumor-for-2016-is.html (http://www.matrixsynth.com/2015/12/and-first-namm-rumor-for-2016-is.html)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on December 18, 2015, 03:03:45 PM
And this was the pic back in the day: (http://i0.wp.com/www.sequencer.de/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/korg.jpg?resize=639%2C576)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on December 18, 2015, 03:04:32 PM
Has anyone heard rumors about the key size?
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on December 18, 2015, 03:06:30 PM
Nah, not yet. Although in this case I would maybe not care so much. Well, it depends on the price. But I assume they didn't revive ARP for only one instrument, i.e. the Odyssey.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on December 18, 2015, 03:13:32 PM
The Odyssey was my favorite synthesizer that I did own; the 2600 was my favorite synthesizer that I never owned.  If it's a full-sized reproduction, I would expect it to cost around $3,000.  But it sure would be exciting to have it available again.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: dslsynth on December 18, 2015, 03:14:02 PM
How about a picture - something subtle, like this?

Its a pretty darn powerful lowpass filter that it affects the sound as well as the visuals! Me impressed! ;D

A Space Odyssey?

Given the proposed key size it gotta be an Oddity! ;)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: dslsynth on December 18, 2015, 03:17:41 PM
the 2600 was my favorite synthesizer that I never owned.

Ever heard of the TTSH project? I know someone who got one he glued together himself. It looks great and the sound should be really good. Plus that its discrete electronics all the way. And you love that soldering iron, eh!? ;)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on December 18, 2015, 03:18:58 PM
Given the proposed key size it gotta be an Oddity! ;)

David Bowie signature series?
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on December 18, 2015, 03:20:56 PM
the 2600 was my favorite synthesizer that I never owned.

Ever heard of the TTSH project? I know someone who got one he glued together himself. It looks great and the sound should be really good. Plus that its discrete electronics all the way. And you love that soldering iron, eh!? ;)

Yeah, although not everybody was convinced by it as I've heard. Either way, it was definitely not on the affordable side.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on December 18, 2015, 03:24:15 PM
The Odyssey was my favorite synthesizer that I did own; the 2600 was my favorite synthesizer that I never owned.  If it's a full-sized reproduction, I would expect it to cost around $3,000.  But it sure would be exciting to have it available again.

I've played with Korg's Odyssey quite a few times. It does sound really good. I would definitely prefer full sized keys though. The panel itself is not too small. Other than that it's a nice package including the case, which is pretty sturdy.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on December 18, 2015, 05:02:22 PM
Paul, you've asked me before what I'm looking for in a mono synth.  Well, you've heard it yourself: that Arp sound is what I'm after.

One thing about the mini keys issue.  If the keys are narrower, then obviously the whole keyboard will be narrower.  That means the instrument's control panel will be smaller as well, and that's a drawback for certain.  If there's one thing I miss about older synthesizers, it's their nice roomy control panels.  Again, an Odyssey would be a good example.  Relative to modern instruments, the Odyssey's panel stretched back quite a bit.  It gave you plenty of visual space and room for your hands to move about as you tweaked.  That's one more reason I'd like to have just one of these re-issues, preferably a mono synth.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on December 18, 2015, 05:14:32 PM
Paul, you've asked me before what I'm looking for in a mono synth.  Well, you've heard it yourself: that Arp sound is what I'm after.

One thing about the mini keys issue.  If the keys are narrower, then obviously the whole keyboard will be narrower.  That means the instrument's control panel will be smaller as well, and that's a drawback for certain.  If there's one thing I miss about older synthesizers, it's their nice roomy control panels.  Again, an Odyssey would be a good example.  Relative to modern instruments, the Odyssey's panel stretched back quite a bit.  It gave you plenty of visual space and room for your hands to move about as you tweaked.  That's one more reason I'd like to have just one of these re-issues, preferably a mono synth.

Yeah, I know. I just meant that the shrunken control panel of the Odyssey is not quite a bummer as it's still pretty roomy. It doesn't feel as if everything's too narrow and the sliders don't allow for enough space. An absolute no-go in terms of user interface are the Roland Boutique and Yamaha Reface instruments if you ask me.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on December 18, 2015, 05:46:19 PM
Anyways, after the Odyssey disappointment, I've got a thicker skin and wouldn't be too upset if the 2600 got the same 86%treatment.  It would be a dream come true to have a full-sized 2600, but I'm not anticipating such things any longer.  I always end up coming back to DSI where such things are unthinkable.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: BobTheDog on December 19, 2015, 02:52:09 AM
I would order the Korg 2600 immediately, I have a mate with the original and it's fantastic.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on December 19, 2015, 03:16:27 PM
I would order the Korg 2600 immediately, I have a mate with the original and it's fantastic.

Of all monophonic synthesizers of all time, I would call the Arp 2600 my very favorite.  I've never played one; I've never even seen one in person.  But the sounds and music made with that instrument always thrilled me.  I liked the Arp sound even more than that of the Model D.  Years ago, I owned the Pro Soloist, Axxe, all three Odyssey models, and the Little Brother.  Plus, a full four-octave keyboard is just perfect for melody playing.  However, I would first wait to see what sort of job Korg does with it. 
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on December 19, 2015, 03:24:51 PM
As long as a shirt isn't needed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjFqfIo7nkI (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjFqfIo7nkI)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on December 19, 2015, 04:32:07 PM
See, Paul, you don't understand the power of the 2600.  When that guy started playing, he had a shirt on, but in no time, the 2600 blew it right off.  In the end of the video, you can see that even his socks are missing.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on December 19, 2015, 04:32:57 PM
Haha…
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on December 19, 2015, 04:43:48 PM
I just had to add an image to this discussion.  Tell me this doesn't make your little synthesists' hearts get all mushy.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on December 19, 2015, 05:10:40 PM
I wouldn't say no to that one. In fact, I always found the 2600 more interesting and appealing than the Minimoog. Still curious whether Korg would really go there. From what I've heard in the retail business, the Odyssey is far from being a top seller. Korg even thought about lowering its price soon. The MS-20 Kit as well as the MS-20 desktop version are also still available although both are limited too.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on December 19, 2015, 06:08:48 PM
Any interesting information here, Paul the translator?

http://www.sequencer.de/synthesizer/viewtopic.php?t=108892
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on December 19, 2015, 06:19:40 PM
It's all back and forth speculation. Some say "bollocks" or wishful thinking, others say it might be true. One thing I found indeed a bit strange - and that is mentioned in this German thread as well - is that it says "Musikmesse" in the original message, whatever the latter might mean when it comes to internet rumors. But Musikmesse Frankfurt doesn't take place before April. With regard to the date the message should have said "NAMM" instead. So that makes this source suspicious. The thread you're referring to basically ends with the joke "it doesn't sound as good as the original."
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on December 19, 2015, 06:28:21 PM
Well that helps to confuse things.  I guess we'll know only when Korg makes an announcement.  Then again, Matrixsynth is usually pretty reliable.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on December 19, 2015, 06:50:32 PM
Well that helps to confuse things.  I guess we'll know only when Korg makes an announcement.  Then again, Matrixsynth is usually pretty reliable.

Usually, yes. But on the other hand this rumor is in itself nothing new. It has been around since summer at the latest - not even counting in the wishful thinking about this, which started around the last NAMM. As Korg seems to have revived the brand ARP - at least that's the impression one gets when you visit the corresponding site -, it would seem possible.

On the other hand, and as I said above, the Odyssey isn't selling too well. All of its limited versions (Mk I and II) are still available. A nearby store hasn't sold any since late summer and even at the Guitar Center here they collect dust. I think they are priced slightly too high. $799 would have been perfect, without the case I'd say $699 - at least for the shrunken version it is.

Now, if they would rebuild the 2600, what would a realistic price be? The full sized MS-20 kit was $1,499. So I would somehow assume something like $1,999 for a full sized version. But at that price point we could all relax, lean back in our chairs, and wait for the Black Friday deals next year as such a synth wouldn't fly off the shelves. It would neither be an impulse buy, nor be exceptionally attractive for musicians who start getting into analog synthesis. Also, think about what else you could get at that price point. But even a mini version for about $999 to $1,299 wouldn't sell out in a couple of months. I just can't see that happening. And that's where I start to doubt such a project simply in terms of business decisions.

Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on December 19, 2015, 07:01:10 PM
Plus: Korg would have to do much better PR work. Especially their NAMM presentation this year was lacklustre. I couldn't have thought of a worse way to present the Odyssey. And they even had Cory Henry to demonstrate it, but somehow they even managed to mess that up. They basically presented it as one thing amongst others after (hundreds of felt) hours of Jordan Rudess noodling on the Kronos. This time, they would have to get at least Alan R. Pearlman himself and people like Daniel Miller and Vince Clarke.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on December 19, 2015, 08:12:22 PM
A full-sized Arp 2600 for $2,000 would be a steal.  I would buy it in a minute for that price.  My expectation would be that it would be substantially more than that - more like $2,600 ;D.  There's a lot more to this instrument than there is to an Odyssey or a Model D.  The Voyagers were about $3,000.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on December 19, 2015, 08:59:32 PM
A full-sized Arp 2600 for $2,000 would be a steal.  I would buy it in a minute for that price.  My expectation would be that it would be substantially more than that - more like $2,600 ;D.  There's a lot more to this instrument than there is to an Odyssey or a Model D.  The Voyagers were about $3,000.

Sure, I may have been too optimistic. But the more expensive it gets, the less likely it is for Korg to go down this route. Doing analog stuff hasn't yet reached the level of their more mainstream-like products, like the Kronos, etc. And most of their analog instruments are basically reissues, apart from the Volca series, the Monotrons, and Monotribe with most of them being solutions for either beginning musicians or such that are on a tight budget.

Beyond all of that speculation it would be interesting to see whether Korg would do something that is similar to what Roland did with the JD-XA. Not necessarily a direct competitor, but something that goes beyond sheer reissues and offers a newly designed architecture.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: BobTheDog on December 19, 2015, 10:50:11 PM
The 2600 is one synth where making it smaller would be a great idea, the originals are pretty big.

As the keyboard is separate then the keyboard could be any size, dare I say it even full-size and hopefully sold as an 'extra' to keep the price of the main unit down.

I hope it will be under the $3000 mark though, the TTSH clone is $3400 to $3800 (plus another $250 for midi) http://sanpedrolabs.com/?product=ttsh-arp-2600-clone-standard-case (http://sanpedrolabs.com/?product=ttsh-arp-2600-clone-standard-case) so you would hope that Korg could do it cheaper than this.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Razmo on December 20, 2015, 03:51:12 AM
It's nice that KORG make analog gear again, but I honestly have to say, that they need to go in a direction more modern for me to have any interrest in their analog products... they have still not produced anything with MIDI control and memory for presets... this area still seems to be occupied only by DSI, MOOG and Waldorf plus a handful of smaller companies.

I'm aware that it would be meaningless to try to put memory and MIDI control in an ARP 2600, as it's semimodular, but I'd really like to see KORG go a bit more modern on this...
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: dslsynth on December 20, 2015, 01:12:55 PM
I have to agree with Razmo that we need Korg to step into the future and make quality analog instruments that are not just replica of older instruments but new ones with useful voice architecture design ideas and great digital control. Seems like they are not brave enough to do that yet. But if they did that could give generate a little competition for DSI which could turn into more resources for software maintenance which would be a very good thing for DSI customers.

One thought: could we imagine DSI doing a small voice count machine with some sort of paraphonic support so that it would be a perfect stringer? That would be fun! Or?

Anyway: DSI are up for their jewel exam this NAMM show! If its an expensive machine again its going to look like that is the only thing they aim for. If its a more affordable machine then things look more promising from my point of view.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Razmo on December 20, 2015, 02:33:10 PM
A polysynth from KORG, analog, with either MS20 or ARP filter... plus 100% MIDI control and memory... I'd be all over it in an instant.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on December 23, 2015, 06:06:10 PM
There's a lengthy discussion on this topic on Vintage Synth Explorer.

http://www.vintagesynth.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=80404

One suggestion that didn't occur to me is the possibility that this new limited edition instrument might be a full-sized Odyssey.  That would be most welcome news to me, but I sure hope it isn't a kit! 
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on January 01, 2016, 01:19:26 PM
A polysynth from KORG, analog, with either MS20 or ARP filter... plus 100% MIDI control and memory... I'd be all over it in an instant.

There have been recent rumors about a new polysynth that could possibly be introduced at the NAMM by Korg (or some other manufacturer between A and W) on GS:

Quote
- Polyphonic analog synth
- Big sound
- Memory
- Step sequencer with motion recording (I think) / Arp
- Affordable
- Multiple VCO interactions
- A filter that can toggle between 2 and 4 pole operation
- Nice modulation routings
- Interesting mono modes that use the extra voices creatively (unison with detune, multiple sub-oscillators, chord mode...)
- 2,8 kg
- Has a keyboard
- More compact than a Mopho X4
- Plenty of knobs that aren't tightly squeezed together (metal-shaft too)
- Small screen
- Aluminium faceplate
- Not by Arturia
- By a manufacturer somewhere between Arturia and Waldorf, alphabetically speaking.

The above list is adapted from a series of teasing posts by audiofanzine's (French website) main synth reviewer, who seems to have something quite interesting in his hands that should show up at NAMM.

Source: https://www.gearslutz.com/board/electronic-music-instruments-electronic-music-production/1042026-namm-2016-your-predictions-rumors-desires.html (https://www.gearslutz.com/board/electronic-music-instruments-electronic-music-production/1042026-namm-2016-your-predictions-rumors-desires.html)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: dslsynth on January 01, 2016, 01:54:10 PM
There have been recent rumors about a new polysynth that could possibly be introduced at the NAMM by Korg (or some other manufacturer between A and W) on GS:

Real competition for DSI with an affordable analog polysynth? That is going to be interesting to follow. Looking forward to see how sexy the modulations on the new instrument will be. If its the usual one or two lfos and two envelopes then I doubt it will affect DSI's market very much.

If it on the other hand provide Prophet-6 class sound, have more modulation options on par with DSI classic instruments and are a lot cheaper then we are in for an interesting product match on the synth market especially if they make timely updates to their OS.

The Battle Of The Giants (TM) are going to be very interesting to watch on the next Noisefest (aka gearmas aka NAMM).

Will be interesting to see what DSI comes up with and how its received!

Oh and how Dave reacts to this! ;)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on January 01, 2016, 02:01:46 PM
Oh and how Dave reacts to this! ;)

With a moustache, an anglo style, or a full beard…
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: dslsynth on January 01, 2016, 02:03:41 PM
:-X . o O ( beardmas )
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on January 01, 2016, 03:18:54 PM
There have been recent rumors about a new polysynth that could possibly be introduced at the NAMM by Korg (or some other manufacturer between A and W) on GS:

I'll take whichever one has wooden end cheeks.  Whatever's in between them is irrelevant.  :)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on January 01, 2016, 03:22:21 PM
There have been recent rumors about a new polysynth that could possibly be introduced at the NAMM by Korg (or some other manufacturer between A and W) on GS:

I'll take whichever one has wooden end cheeks.  The rest is irrelevant.  :)

What? Even if it's supposed to be smaller than the Mopho X4?
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on January 01, 2016, 03:39:27 PM
Good point.  And I forgot about mini wooden end cheeks as well.

Okay, so my updated demands are wooden end cheeks and a full-sized five-octave keyboard.  Everything else is irrelevant.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on January 01, 2016, 03:42:45 PM
And none of that pink and light blue panel stuff you were talking about earlier.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on January 01, 2016, 03:44:59 PM
And none of that pink and light blue stuff you were talking about earlier.

Not even if it's made of wood?  ;)

In case this rumor is true, this instrument would not have a 5 octave keyboard, as that factor would make it bigger than the Mopho X4.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on January 01, 2016, 03:50:23 PM
Pink and light blue wood?  Jeepers, then skip the wood and make the end cheeks styrofoam.  Now that looks good in pink and light blue.

Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on January 01, 2016, 03:51:34 PM
Pink and light blue wood?  Jeepers, then skip the wood and make the end cheeks styrofoam.  Now that looks good in pink and light blue.

I see where you're going here…
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on January 02, 2016, 04:40:40 PM
I've been anticipating the Vermona 14 for a year now, and haven't been able to find too much information about it.  Today I read this on their website:

"Our 25-year-old company history, which is inseparably connected to the reintroduction of the brand VERMONA in 2001, we actually planned to celebrate with the launch of the ’14 Analog Synthesizer.

Shortly after we presented the first prototype at the NAMM Show in Anaheim, our dear friend, colleague and co-founder Bernd Haller passed away in February after a short period of disease. He left a big gap in our familiar manufactory.

Consequently, we couldn’t realize some projects as announced, among others the ’14 Analog Synthesizer. But, forbearance is not acquittance and so we are eager to delight you with new products next year.

In plain language: The first ’14 Analog synthesizers will be available coinciding with the 15th anniversary of VERMONA in 2016."
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on January 02, 2016, 05:33:18 PM
I've been anticipating the Vermona 14 for a year now, and haven't been able to find too much information about it.  Today I read this on their website:

"Our 25-year-old company history, which is inseparably connected to the reintroduction of the brand VERMONA in 2001, we actually planned to celebrate with the launch of the ’14 Analog Synthesizer.

Shortly after we presented the first prototype at the NAMM Show in Anaheim, our dear friend, colleague and co-founder Bernd Haller passed away in February after a short period of disease. He left a big gap in our familiar manufactory.

Consequently, we couldn’t realize some projects as announced, among others the ’14 Analog Synthesizer. But, forbearance is not acquittance and so we are eager to delight you with new products next year.

In plain language: The first ’14 Analog synthesizers will be available coinciding with the 15th anniversary of VERMONA in 2016."

That's really sad. I didn't know about that. He already got sick in 2000, which is why the production for the infamous "Mephisto" had to be interrupted, which eventually never saw the light of the day apart from its prototype. It's good to hear that they are still working on it. I wish them luck.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Soundquest on January 04, 2016, 05:07:23 PM
I'd be very interested in any Vermona instrument with a keyboard, though I'm sure it'll cost a bunch.  Judging from the MKII I have- it is built like a tank and sounds fabulous.   To get an ultimate sounding analog keyboard sounding instrument (that's new) is always a dream of mine.  The "new" Oberheim 4 voice had me thinking...but then I saw this Vermona protype "14" from Namm 2015 postings and it made me pause.  We'll see soon I guess :)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on January 05, 2016, 06:10:52 AM
I had been hoping for that Vermona 14, too.  Well, we won't have long to wait; they said some time in 2016.

I'm indulging in one vintage dream.  I'd like to own just one iconic synthesizer, something really classic but brand new.  I'm hoping NAMM 2016 will be the year for such dreams.  I'm content with the polyphonic portion of my set up; the Poly Evolvers and Prophet 08s are superb for my needs.   But I'd like one mono synth in the classic old school style: three VCOs, a thick raw analog sound, a raised control panel, mono-timbral, and no memory.  Forget all the fancy features, violate the technological correctness, and just go with strong fundamentals and a simple classic warm rich sound.  This means perhaps a new Minimoog Model D, or much more preferably a Korg/Arp 2600, or possibly a new Sequential instrument.  My only stipulations are stable oscillators, a full-sized 44+ note keyboard, and hopefully MIDI Out.

Designing sounds without having saved programs to fall back on makes a different sort of synthesist out of you, and it also effects the types of sounds you use.  I noticed when I had the Voyager Old School that the sounds I designed were few in number, and therefore, had to be far more useful in different musical contexts. I liked that effect, as opposed to having many and diverse sounds saved, and often jumping from one to the next.  That may be fun and even impressive, but I don't care for it in the end.  There's a monotony in constant variety; I find it wearisome and musically distracting.  I prefer to work with a small number of fine and flexible musical tones and to become skilled at setting up those sounds quickly from scratch.  So, I'd actually be happy to have one instrument without any memory.

Then there's the control panel.  I've always liked the Minimoog panel design - upright and moveable.  It makes programming so convenient for the eyes, where as, a flat panel causes you to somewhat strain and even lean forward a bit.  Modular synthesists have it made.  So, I also like the ARP 2600 design, with the controls up higher at eye level, looking straight at you.  Additionally, I've found that this is the sort of synthesizer I'm most likely to tweak, whether there's a lot of time available or only a little.  It's inviting to see the controls conveniently positioned and ready to be used, without any need for scrolling through menus, referring to digits in a window, or tracing a matrix for a parameter.  It's more immediate and satisfying, and I'm more likely to go deeply into designing sounds because the whole process is easier and more immediate and satisfying.

If NAMM 2016 doesn't produce any new opportunities for old schoolers like myself, I'll make due with what's available.  But I'd love to have just one such instrument, and one that I could also build up with modules over time in sort of an on-going project.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: eXode on January 05, 2016, 11:38:22 AM
This means perhaps a new Minimoog Model D, a Korg/Arp 2600, or possibly a new Sequential instrument.  My only stipulations are stable oscillators and a full-sized 44+ note keyboard.

If I were to speculate, I would be quite surprised if Moog doesn't present something new that's harking to something like a minimoog. Imho the Voyager was quite a big leap in price from the excellent Sub 37, esp if you start to compare features. Therefore it would only seem natural to me that Moog present something that expands on the Sub Phatty and Sub 37 legacy. Another possibility is that we'll see some sort of re-issue of the original minimoog (Model D). The big question is if they'll do a modern take on the minimoog at a sensible price step from the Sub 37, or if they're doing an expensive boutique remake of the original minimoog a'la the modular systems. Or perhaps they are doing both. :)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on January 08, 2016, 11:29:10 AM
Just in:

(https://static.gearslutz.com/board/imgext.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FkDMI395.jpg&h=630c4484c72770ca6618c6bcc63f488f)

https://www.instagram.com/p/BASC-t1LM3T/ (https://www.instagram.com/p/BASC-t1LM3T/)

Unfortunately, it seems to have minikeys so that's a 'not interested' from my side.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: dslsynth on January 08, 2016, 11:48:28 AM
Wonder how it sounds given that its a minilouge rather than an analogue. . o O ( :o )
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: eXode on January 08, 2016, 11:52:13 AM
Unfortunately, it seems to have minikeys so that's a 'not interested' from my side.

It's actually more likely to have slimkeys, like the MS20mini and the new ARP Odyssey. Still not great but it's a lesser evil than minikeys if you ask me. :)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on January 08, 2016, 11:58:39 AM
Unfortunately, it seems to have minikeys so that's a 'not interested' from my side.

It's actually more likely to have slimkeys, like the MS20mini and the new ARP Odyssey. Still not great but it's a lesser evil than minikeys if you ask me. :)

Right, it's the same keyboard that has been used on these. Still a bit off turning on a polysynth. Otherwise, the features look nice. I just don't get their priorities. It includes an inbuilt oscilloscope,* but no proper keys. Why not doing a desktop module instead?

* https://www.instagram.com/p/BASbFpIM9py/ (https://www.instagram.com/p/BASbFpIM9py/)

- grumpy old man mode off -
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on January 08, 2016, 12:05:56 PM
Among all the other swirling rumors, I came across one claiming Roland would re-issue their System-100.  If they meant all three pieces, that could be very interesting.

More exciting than that, I've been told we can count on some forthcoming hints on the new DSI piece, in old forum tradition.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on January 08, 2016, 12:08:09 PM
Among all the other swirling rumors, I came across one claiming Roland would re-issue their System-100.

More exciting than that, I've been told we can count on some forthcoming hints on the new DSI piece.

System-100? No way. Maybe as a plug-out. I'm ready for hints, but they won't hinder me in ordering a P6 soon.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on January 08, 2016, 12:10:03 PM
Sounds like you've met the right synthesizer! 
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: eXode on January 08, 2016, 12:13:54 PM
Unfortunately, it seems to have minikeys so that's a 'not interested' from my side.

It's actually more likely to have slimkeys, like the MS20mini and the new ARP Odyssey. Still not great but it's a lesser evil than minikeys if you ask me. :)

Right, it's the same keyboard that has been used on these. Still a bit off turning on a polysynth. Otherwise, the features look nice. I just don't get their priorities. It includes an inbuilt oscilloscope,* but no proper keys. Why not doing a desktop module instead?

* https://www.instagram.com/p/BASbFpIM9py/ (https://www.instagram.com/p/BASbFpIM9py/)

- grumpy old man mode off -

Yeah I would have loved a desktop with poly-chain. Esp if the rumored price of ~$500 USD is accurate.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on January 08, 2016, 12:17:10 PM
Sounds like you've met the right synthesizer!

Maybe the right two. If I didn't own a Pro 2, this would be more difficult.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on January 08, 2016, 12:21:32 PM
Those two synthesizers do belong together - a perfect match.  You'll have the best of both worlds.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: dslsynth on January 08, 2016, 12:49:46 PM
[...] won't hinder me in ordering a P6 soon.

Hopefully not until after gearmas!
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on January 08, 2016, 01:38:28 PM
[...] won't hinder me in ordering a P6 soon.

Hopefully not until after gearmas!

Oh, I'll probably order before that. I'm not really expecting anything that would make me regret my decision.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: dslsynth on January 08, 2016, 01:55:08 PM
Oh, I'll probably order before that. I'm not really expecting anything that would make me regret my decision.

You are braver than I am! Prophet-6 is surely a great machine but I would still wait if I was you. Keyboard or module version?
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on January 08, 2016, 02:21:52 PM
Oh, I'll probably order before that. I'm not really expecting anything that would make me regret my decision.

You are braver than I am! Prophet-6 is surely a great machine but I would still wait if I was you. Keyboard or module version?

No, that doesn't have anything to do with being brave. If there are two synths I fell in love with immediately in the past, it had to be the Pro 2 and the Prophet-6. Who likes the Prophet-6 likes it for mostly two reasons: sound and instant gratification. (I for one perceive the sound difference to be bigger than the recent comparison videos between the Prophet-6 and Prophet '08 suggest via YouTube.) I don't see how this appeal would suddenly disappear. There are only two things that could happen with regard to the Prophet-6 engine: a smaller and perhaps monophonic version or a larger version, which would be unaffordable for me anyway. So I really see no risk. Plus: I wanted a Prophet-5 ever since I was a teenager, but I'm too pragmatic to pay silly fetish prices, so in that sense the Prophet-6 is the perfect alternative for me.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Razmo on January 08, 2016, 02:43:54 PM
Well... if it's from KORG, it's without digital control, and thus no MIDI control of parameters... pass!  8)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: dslsynth on January 08, 2016, 03:11:46 PM
Well... if it's from KORG, it's without digital control, and thus no MIDI control of parameters... pass!  8)

Well they could have moved forward technology wise from where they are now. So I would not rule out full parameter control yet. Let them speak up and show their craft at gearmas.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: dslsynth on January 08, 2016, 03:15:51 PM
I wanted a Prophet-5 ever since I was a teenager, but I'm too pragmatic to pay silly fetish prices, so in that sense the Prophet-6 is the perfect alternative for me.

I totally get that. Please do go ahead if you feel like it. ;) I am just saying that I would not do it myself because one never knows what shows up at gearmas and that could change the current plans. Plus that DSI are pretty unpredictable these years so I am ready for a GAS list changing surprise.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on January 08, 2016, 04:15:52 PM
I wanted a Prophet-5 ever since I was a teenager, but I'm too pragmatic to pay silly fetish prices, so in that sense the Prophet-6 is the perfect alternative for me.

I totally get that. Please do go ahead if you feel like it. ;) I am just saying that I would not do it myself because one never knows what shows up at gearmas and that could change the current plans. Plus that DSI are pretty unpredictable these years so I am ready for a GAS list changing surprise.

Absolutely. I need to cover the basics first, though.  8)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on January 08, 2016, 04:21:31 PM
From a reliable source I've heard that the price of the Korg minilogue should be under $500 (so maybe $499). Also, they'll drop the prices for the Odyssey to $799.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: eXode on January 08, 2016, 11:12:35 PM
New image of the Minilogue from gs / the web

(https://static.gearslutz.com/board/imgext.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fi65.tinypic.com%2Fwwdwzs.jpg&h=1acdabc9acc80d149daa4a147fa73750)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: dslsynth on January 09, 2016, 04:56:10 AM
Will be interesting to see if it have full MIDI support and presets or not. If it have it will be a machine that DSI simply cannot compete with on price only as Korg can produce a lot cheaper than DSI can. On the other hand there are more parameters than just price such as sounds and voice architecture features. Here DSI surely have an edge.

What I am trying to say is that such instruments may convince DSI to continue there current jewel path rather than trying to make more affordable instruments with a wider appeal. Which is unfortunate if that happens. Would be far nicer if DSI decided to make their jewel line but now and then make some more affordable goodie bits for those that want the DSI sound but cannot afford their top of the line instruments.

Its going to be an interesting NAMM show!
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Razmo on January 09, 2016, 05:15:05 AM
Will be interesting to see if it have full MIDI support and presets or not. If it have it will be a machine that DSI simply cannot compete with on price only as Korg can produce a lot cheaper than DSI can. On the other hand there are more parameters than just price such as sounds and voice architecture features. Here DSI surely have an edge.

What I am trying to say is that such instruments may convince DSI to continue there current jewel path rather than trying to make more affordable instruments with a wider appeal. Which is unfortunate if that happens. Would be far nicer if DSI decided to make their jewel line but now and then make some more affordable goodie bits for those that want the DSI sound but cannot afford their top of the line instruments.

Its going to be an interesting NAMM show!

I actualy think that it will... at last! ... it has a display on it, and what good would that do, if it did not have any kind of digital connection with something?  ;) ... this is interresting now... and for about 500 US dollars, might be even more interresting.... just wish (as always), that it would be in a module version...
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: dslsynth on January 09, 2016, 05:56:47 AM
I actualy think that it will... at last! ... it has a display on it, and what good would that do, if it did not have any kind of digital connection with something?  ;) ... this is interresting now... and for about 500 US dollars, might be even more interresting.... just wish (as always), that it would be in a module version...

From various Dave Smith and Paul Maddox interviews/talks I remember them talking about the need for calibrating the analog electronics in each voice to make them sound similar. So my guess is that one cannot really make a well sounding analog poly without some kind of calibration which is best done in the digital domain these days. So why not add the software controlled wire pulling and MIDI preset control now they are at it?
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: eXode on January 09, 2016, 07:06:00 AM
Fwiw, the spec rumor concerning the Minilogue stated that it would have a 16 step sequencer with up to 4 recordable/automatable parameters.

Rough translation from various Russian webshops:
KORG Minilogue - is a fully programmable, 4-voice polyphonic synthesizer, is also equipped with built-in reverb and delay effects. KORG company offers the best way to get acquainted with a unique, stunning features of the analog synthesizer. Synthesizer has a unique analog engine, quick access to the 100 factory 100 user presets, 8 different voice modes to create its configuration of 4 notes - unison, polyphony, and so on. The front panel 41 of the controller to configure and quick change function, the oscilloscope in real time gives a visual check of sound, 16-step sequencer with automation polyphonic up to 4 parameters synthesizer and more.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on January 09, 2016, 02:50:54 PM
New image of the Minilogue from gs / the web

(https://static.gearslutz.com/board/imgext.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fi65.tinypic.com%2Fwwdwzs.jpg&h=1acdabc9acc80d149daa4a147fa73750)

I can't bear to look at yet another one of these.  If Korg produces a mini or slim key ARP 2600, I'll have to go on some sort of medication.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: dslsynth on January 09, 2016, 03:11:04 PM
If Korg produces a mini or slim key ARP 2600, I'll have to go on some sort of medication.

Or wait for the glue-it-yourself limited edition module at some later point in time! ;)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on January 09, 2016, 04:23:45 PM
Oh yes, the "kit" version for nearly twice the price.  And who wouldn't enjoy assembling something so simple as a 2600?  I'm amazed that Korg has the audacity to actually charge its customers extra to finish their work.  It's no mystery what folks here would say if DSI tried the same trick with us.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: dslsynth on January 09, 2016, 04:26:00 PM
Oh yes, the "kit" for nearly twice the price.  And who wouldn't enjoy assembling something so simple as a 2600?

Exactly! While the classic 2600 is great I would rather like to see Korg make a modern digitally controlled machine with more complex modulations than the 2600 but with the same kind of analog electronics. Same old story, you know! ;)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Paul Dither on January 09, 2016, 04:32:38 PM
The ARP 2600 rumors in conjunction with the limited 3000 numbers turned out to be false. What will be limited to 3000 is the OK GO Volca Sample edition:

(https://static.gearslutz.com/board/imgext.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F5AGCpVJ.jpg&h=29f7aa6642ecccdff90fc51f18450ced)
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on January 09, 2016, 04:33:54 PM
Yes, I know.  Personally, I could go either way - vintage re-issue or brand new design.  What matters to me is raw but musical analog sound and power.  But if DSI doesn't produce something of interest this NAMM, I'll be quite happy with the already existing choices.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on January 09, 2016, 04:37:47 PM
The ARP 2600 rumors in conjunction with the limited 3000 numbers turned out to be false. What will be limited to 3000 is the OK GO Volca Sample edition:

(https://static.gearslutz.com/board/imgext.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F5AGCpVJ.jpg&h=29f7aa6642ecccdff90fc51f18450ced)

This may be good; perhaps Korg will produce more than 3000 ARP 2600s!  :o 

I believe ARP had produced approximately 3,000 2600s, and so, I figured Korg was trying to be either cute or symbolic.
Title: Re: General NAMM 2016 Speculation
Post by: eXode on January 15, 2016, 02:27:19 PM
Apparently Vermona will start producing the '14 this year. As you may, or may not know, they company suffered an unexpected loss last year as their co-founder suddenly passed away. This is a big part of the reason why the '14 never got released.

However Vermona now states that the first '14 will leave the factory approx. in Q2 (After Superbooth Berlin).

It sure seems to be a nice keyboard!

http://www.vermona.com/en/news/

http://www.vermona.com/en/news/?tx_news_pi1[news]=162&cHash=b9dda61148c74f6e0c6cc46f5605299e#news-item-uid162