This really helps solidly the idea that the Peak is really a blank canvas, with all of the pros and cons that come with it. It maybe lacks having a specific character, but with enough patience and knowledge, it can really be driven to sound great at most things. Adding character is part of the process.
Wow! I just discovered your channel and listened to Somewhere the Light Falls and and I am so inspired. Truly wanted to give my thanks to you for so many great videos and all the information you provide.
Just purchased the Summit. Wow, what a synth. Absolutely stunning tonaly, very warm sounding filters. Love the hands on control, makes you feel truly connected to sound creation on it. Very organic. 2 Peaks together in 1 synth, a load of new features added. The keyboard feels beautiful to play. Very Well made and very well thought out synth with an absolute ton of modulation possabilies laid out right there front of you. 100% a keeper.
And - tada! - you have now vastly expanded wavetable possibilities, an ever growing mod matrix, new chorus and delay effect settings, stereo panning for the 8 voices... the list goes on! Novation are doing an amazing job keeping this synth up at the top of its game. I had one a few years back, didn't really gel with it, but just purchased one again now. And I couldn't be happier. People say it lacks "own character". And yes, it's not a Moog, and certainly neither a classic Prophet, Korg MS or Juno. But it adds so many layers to existing instruments, and it sounds almost like anything you want. Plus, it definitely keeps its value - not least because Novation keep those firmware updates coming. A modern classic.
Funny thing is, I think it definitely has its own character - the reverb. You hear it very distinctly in almost everything people make with the Peak. It's so tempting to just crank that reverb up, but it's very recognizable.
wish they could do a firmware update to change the Peak into a Summit... or just release the Summit as a desktop. i don't have the space for another keyboard.
I’ve been lusting over a peak for a few years. You’re right, they do hold their value, about £900 2nd hand. This video is exactly what I needed to hear. Not a review of what it does, but more a walkthrough of what you can do with it. Subtle difference... Thanks.
Well hey glad to hear it! Planning to do one like this for my Blofeld someday too. The Peak is definitely a great investment I think, it covers pretty much the entire range of sounds you really need for most cases and has that nice thick synth sound that usually you can't find in digital stuff. The filter probably has a lot to do with that haha. If you do end up grabbing one sometime, I'm sure you'll love it.
I'm currently sitting in my office at work on my lunch break watching this. Even though I'm not on company time, I don't think HR would appreciate it if I poured some Tullamore Dew and took my pants off at work... Don't get me fired, Cameron...
Same here. It worth every single penny I gave out for it. Such an intuitive, compact, and powerful synth. The only thing would be even better to have is the mighty Summit. Also the Novation update policy is one of a kind.
I’ve had the Peak since just after launch, when I was convinced by a Mylar Melodies video. It’s a great fun machine, very enjoyable to get lost in sound creation. I do have lots of gripes too. 1 - I wish we could decouple the oscillators from the amp envelope, and to bypass the filter for each oscillator. 2 - the envelopes are nasty. They have some really horrible moments, especially in the transition from decay to sustain. 3 - I wish we had a way to use the mod matrix like Moog do on the Sub37, just wiggle a knob to choose a destination from the top panel, and if Moog can make every single parameter a destination on the Sub37, it can’t be beyond the wit of Novation to allow you access to all parameters in the mod matrix. And FYI, the 3 reverbs are not actually 3 algorithms. They are all the same, you’re just stepping between reverb sizes, so reverb 3 is achievable with either of the other 2. The 'rev size' parameter in the reverb menu is what you are actually changing, stepping between 0, 64 or 127.
@@paulmapp8306 wow, it doesn’t respond to CC07? Surely 7 and 10 are the absolute basics that every machine since about 1984 has implemented? I’ve never tried it because I only use it standalone.
@@danpreston564 nope master volume isnt mapped to ANYTHING. Novations response was "you can remotely control VCA gain for volume changes" - which you can BUT by NRPN not CC.... HUGE omission . I have to balance manually live if its not quite right instead of from my controller.
I totally agree with you, that it should be possible to bypass the filter for each OSC individually. I also feel you about the envelopes. They also react much different than any other synth I have and I have a couple of modular envelopes. Them being digital it should be possible to adjust the envelopes between linear, log, exp, or in between.
Another very very VERY helpful tutorial, thanks so much. I feel somewhat ashamed to even suggest something since you obviously are such a pro at this sort of thing, but, for me at least, when you are verbalizing what you're doing, say in the mod matrix, it is so much easier to understand if you show the screen. You did on a lot, but then go back to tweaking the knobs etc. and only tell us what you're doing, as opposed to telling and showing on the screen I own and love the Peak, and have watched this video a few times and have learned a lot. I find that after I've worked with an instrument for a while, I get a lot more out of tutorials like this. Thanks again for sharing your immense knowledge!
This came at an appropriate time because I am shopping for a synth, it's between the deepmind and this. Think I would be much happier with this. Seems like a lot of fun !
I actually had a Deepmind for a bit! Great polysynth but definitely significantly more limited in it's sound palette. Definitely prefer the Peak unless you just need the classic analog poly style sounds. Even then though the Peak kills those patches too so it's definitely the better buy IMO.
@@VenusTheory yea if I got the deepmind I'd save money but I'm pretty sure I'd still lust after Peak. I demod them both a couple years ago and instantly liked the peak more. As you say it seems like it can do many styles really well plus there are more controls ! Do you find 8 voices sufficient? Gonna order on Monday!
I bought it about a month ago and maaaaaaaaaannn. It's super fun messing with all the features and experimenting. So fun that I spend more time designing than producing.
@@wisefellaowlmaster8366 oh that sounds great! It really does look like so much fun. Deffo getting it. Can you tell me, can you change the order of the FX. I think delay before distortion could be really cool for example.
@@MrCcfly spoken like someone who can't afford physical synths. Insensitive to say, perhaps. Almost like going into a video about something people really like and trying to piss on their hobby like it's somehow stupid because there is a free alternative that, in your mind, is better only because it's free.
@@MrCcfly VST are great but without real filters and distortion they are behind and hardware saves on CPU no way can you run VST synths Oscillators at 24Mhz like you can in Peak so you can do other things with your DAW like run more demanding effects plugins or run at higher sample rates. Hardware has a nicer feel.
I have yet to get a peak, but it’s on my list for the next synth. I have a digitone, and I understand what you’re saying about the peaks fm abilities, but I imagine that the digitone might do bells better because of the dual filters. Awesome vid man I’m subbing :)
I love my Peak as well, and, like you, I really wish they would add MPE capability to it. I have a Roli seaboard and I’ve got an Osmose on pre-order. I think the demand for MPE-compatible hardware synths will dramatically increase when Osmose is released in a few months.
For sure - I almost preordered the Osmose but don't really have space for something of that size. I've always wanted the Continuum but I'd be living in the box it came in haha. Perhaps we'll get lucky and see a desktop Osmose someday
The intro music triggers associations with Massive Attack's "Teardrop", which is fitting for a British Synth :) Lovely. And the rest of the video is well made too. Informative, informed and quality footage.
I've only very very briefly got to play with the Hydrasynth. I've been very close to purchasing one lately, but I think I'm saving instead for the Waldorf Iridium as it'll likely get MPE support + is likely more flexible for my sound design work given the multitude of synthesis engines.
I own the Summit, twice the goodness, and 16 voices for a great price. I agree with all your reasons why it’s a great polysynth. I’m worried about you though, “take your pants off”?
I love watching your UA-cam reviews. I'm very glad I found you. I would like to hear your advice on whether to take Novation Peak as your first synthesizer. No, of course, I used to have Monologue, jd-xi, korg electribe, but this is not what I wanted from the sound when interacting with a synthesizer. Is it not to hard to understand it for the first time. And, of course, I will need a midi keyboard, such as arturia
Was looking for a real polyphonic HW synth to finalize my stup and complement my moog stuff (matriarch, Phatty, Dfam, Mother and Sub). I also wanted something with a different timbre cause moogs soud great but they are all in the same area. And the peak was the perfect choice to move away from VST. Digital Oscillators, Anlogue Filter. A lot of control on the surface (mean stuff you actually use. Like all the FX). Watched this video and got convinced. Found one new at black friday for 949 and I knew I had to go. So happy with it. It really complements my moog soundscape. I have a phatty for bass but sometimes they don't cut through the mix, especially if I'm already using a lot of Moog stuff. That's where the peak shine (same classical novation timbre as from the bass station). Even for basses is crazy
Highly recommend it! Outside the lack of MPE and the user wavetables being limited, I can't really say I have any complaints. The only real competitor IMO is the Waldorf Iridium but that's kinda apples and oranges really.
Love the part of the whiskey...great review man,thanks !I have Ultranova...but i am thinking,is Novation Peak sound engine different,will sound better than my Ultranova ???
24:30 YES! I recently made a choice between a MicroKorg and a MiniNova when i was looking for a synth with a vocoder. I bought the MiniNova because, (1) MiniNova was cheaper, (2) I have a Korg Minilogue but nothing by Novastation, (3) I loved the blueness of the MiniNova. I am a guitarist and I do the same thing with pedals, as in, "Hmmmm. There's nothing green on my pedalboard." I like to look down and see something that looks like Christmas with colorful boxes and blinking lights.
Thanks for the Peak Love. Love it for the same reasons. The overall workflow, layout, quality feel of the knobs/encoders/faders all contribute to remaining a classic hybrid. Knowing Novation, they will likely surprise us by popping new Easter Egg functionality into the code base moving forward, a trade mark of Novation. Love your channel, content and honest feedback because you actually own and use these products; unlike the "sell out" UA-cam reviewers who simply do a review and move on to the next GAS de jour. Gratefully.
For sure! Definitely one of the highlights of my setup, and always something new to discover with it. I'm holding my breath for an MPE update! Glad you enjoy the channel as well, really glad to hear that kind of feedback! In the near-ish future as well I hope to do a video like this one on my Blofeld!
Just bought one. It seems a great instrument. The Hydra is a great synth in the same price range. But, they both sound different, which is what I enjoy.
Yeah certainly not the end of the world but really wish they'd add a simple digital highpass somewhere in the settings menu haha. I love super rich bass tones and all but man the Peak can really be overly beefy at times haha. Weird problem to have!
Nice video. I tested a summit the last view days and I really wanted to like it. It is rather flexible, that's the good part. But my main problem was that it couldn't sound analogish like advertising is saying. Maybe it was a problem with the gear I had, but it sounded awfully dull and "plastic" even compared to some of my vsti's in the mix. Too little high dizzle and strengh. I tried a lot of adjustments within the synth and eq to handle it but in the end I send it back. Too bad. But I think it's just a matter of taste.
Yeah I guess I can hear that to some degree. One of very few digital synths to nail a nice low end that I've heard, but I get what you mean that the sound has a bit of a uncanny valley vibe of 'too good' but also not quite 'explosive' like you hear on some of the classics. But, I mean for $1300, pretty damn hard to beat in terms of a workhorse synth.
If I had the money, I totally would haha. Maybe I'll get in touch with Novation though and see if I can get one to play with on the channel. Two Peaks in one and I'd be over the moon!
Hello. I’m know that this might be a silly question, but I’m new into the music producing hobby … so here’s my question: I’m absolutely drawn towards the hardware synthesis, but I hesitate to buy one, because I wonder if I could do exactly the same within my DAW (Ableton). Is it worth buying a hardware gear?
It's a little bit different, mostly in that it has an extra filter and a few other extra features. Mostly in the interface (more controls on the device) and the ability to run stuff through the Summit's effects. Not sure if there are many other differences offhand though
Now, the only benefit for hardware synth for me is that you have physical controls over it (knobs and buttons). And that's it. Have much more capability in software, doesn't require space, not collecting dust, and cost much chipper. However, I can get any sound I want using different combinations of plugins and automation.
i think you must try this synth before drawing a conclusion . I like to use U-he Synths , serum etc... but the Peak is really magic , the sounds are so huge ( especially thanks to the reverb , ) I made a song with different VSTs and I replaced each track with the peak. the difference was awesome.
yeah if you want to use your mouse this is totally fine. i went the hardware route because i am sitting in front of the computer for 8 hours every day. hardware and just focusing on the one thing and just listening to the sound is a different approach. its more meditation and i feel like i am getting deeper into the sound
You can't get Analog filters and it's tonal quality and warmth from any digital VST or any digital hardware. So there's one example of a sound you can't get or make.
Almost bought a Rev 2 actually when I was looking to get the Peak. I think it's a pretty solid choice either way. I still want a Rev 2 possibly when space/money allows, and I didn't get a chance to play one firsthand as the store I went to didn't have one. But, once I played with the Peak at the store I just immediately felt like it did what I wanted in a synth. No regrets at all.
The only concern id have about buying this is if I wanted to use it as my only synth and wanted to use it for both pad and lead. It seems I'd have to record the pad and then change settings for the lead and then not be able to adjust the pad after? Hope I'm making sense.
I have a small but growing synth collection (mostly Volcas but also a Microfreak and hopefully soon a Neutron, with the Peak being a strong contender after this video). I have tried having everything hooked up so I can trigger by MIDI and change things whenever I want and honestly…it’s more hassle than it’s worth, IMO. I just end up thinking I could’ve done the same thing in software. So mostly I just record one thing at a time, and I commit to audio, and then move on. It’s definitely a different way of working but personally I like it. So in answer to your question, yes, you’d need to record, change, record, repeat.
Paul - I'm the opposite to you, sequencing via midi is 2nd nature to me after doing it for 30+ years. Combining that with audio on a DAW is frustrating so I just use midi.
Really I just have a highpass ready to go in the DAW haha. Lovely massive low end but very overpowering a lot of the time. Really wish there was some basic digital highpass filter added!
I have a video of patches I've made demonstrating the power of the supersaws on the Peak/Summit. Check my channel if you want to hear how the supersaws sound. There's not many demos online, most videos focus on it's excellent ambient and analogue sounds.
Had to stop watching when I saw that you still have the plastic cover over the display. Looks like you might have actually peeled it off and then put it back on! How do you sleep at night you monster?
@@VenusTheory Or, you know, just what you wanted to do with your own Peak. I find it so weird how something becomes "the way people should do something", or just something that we're all convinced we should do, think, or feel, and any failure to comply becomes reason enough to try to convince everyone else to comply...
No dumb questions here. We're all here to learn! In short, the filter is actually analog which does make a BIG difference in the final sound. You won't really find that in a VST besides maybe something like Diva or Ultra Analog 3. Beyond that the biggest thing IMO is that you don't have to boot a computer to use it. If I wander into my studio at 2am and want to jam in my underpants, I can flip this on, noodle about, and move on. There is also something to be said for the hands-on and not looking at a computer aspect. If you don't have any hardware synths and are maybe curious about it, I'd check out the Behringer synthesizers or maybe even a Waldorf Blofeld (extremely powerful, not that expensive).
Just bought the full Moog modular stuff (DFAM, SUBHARMONICON, MATRIARCH and Mother 32 + already owning a SUB PHATTY) to go dawless and looking for a polyphonic to replace VST in my set to accompany my set especially with PADS. I was already thinking of going for this given the pricing (Dave smith rev8 it's far more expensive and not so better sounding). Would you suggest that to mix with the moog sound and create something different (moog stuff has all the same timbre in the end)?
Love the Peak, but you're dead wrong about it being more powerful at FM than the Digitone. You LIKE it better than the Digitone. And that is totally fine.
Wanna grab a Novation Peak?
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This really helps solidly the idea that the Peak is really a blank canvas, with all of the pros and cons that come with it. It maybe lacks having a specific character, but with enough patience and knowledge, it can really be driven to sound great at most things. Adding character is part of the process.
Wow! I just discovered your channel and listened to Somewhere the Light Falls and and I am so inspired. Truly wanted to give my thanks to you for so many great videos and all the information you provide.
Ayyyyyyy thanks so much. Glad you enjoyed the album! More on the way soon...ish 😅
I love the peak, so much I got rid.... and bought a Summit - V2.0 firmware is awesome. One of the things I like is it is so well set out.
Just purchased the Summit.
Wow, what a synth. Absolutely stunning tonaly, very warm sounding filters.
Love the hands on control, makes you feel truly connected to sound creation on it.
Very organic.
2 Peaks together in 1 synth, a load of new features added. The keyboard feels beautiful to play. Very Well made and very well thought out synth with an absolute ton of modulation possabilies laid out right there front of you.
100% a keeper.
And - tada! - you have now vastly expanded wavetable possibilities, an ever growing mod matrix, new chorus and delay effect settings, stereo panning for the 8 voices... the list goes on! Novation are doing an amazing job keeping this synth up at the top of its game. I had one a few years back, didn't really gel with it, but just purchased one again now. And I couldn't be happier. People say it lacks "own character". And yes, it's not a Moog, and certainly neither a classic Prophet, Korg MS or Juno. But it adds so many layers to existing instruments, and it sounds almost like anything you want. Plus, it definitely keeps its value - not least because Novation keep those firmware updates coming. A modern classic.
Funny thing is, I think it definitely has its own character - the reverb. You hear it very distinctly in almost everything people make with the Peak. It's so tempting to just crank that reverb up, but it's very recognizable.
“Tulamor Dew and pants off” = Subbed
‘Take your pants off’ LMAO 🤣
I too am a "Synth-Person" lol ...Now I want a Peak. :)
Definitely worth the buy! I can't say I've ever had any remorse with this one.
Damn, I was sold on that huge reverb sound. This thing sounds toight.
I was so in love with my Peak that I sold it and bought a Summit.
I'm very close to doing the same - Summit has been calling me for a while now haha.
wish they could do a firmware update to change the Peak into a Summit... or just release the Summit as a desktop. i don't have the space for another keyboard.
Had Novation Peak for five years this week got Summit both are epic sounding and so many possibilities.
That intro song is really beautiful. Nice stuff!
I think I spent about 10 minutes trying to think of a comment worthy of this video. I have failed.
That opener, tho - amazing.
I’ve been lusting over a peak for a few years. You’re right, they do hold their value, about £900 2nd hand.
This video is exactly what I needed to hear. Not a review of what it does, but more a walkthrough of what you can do with it. Subtle difference...
Thanks.
Well hey glad to hear it! Planning to do one like this for my Blofeld someday too. The Peak is definitely a great investment I think, it covers pretty much the entire range of sounds you really need for most cases and has that nice thick synth sound that usually you can't find in digital stuff. The filter probably has a lot to do with that haha. If you do end up grabbing one sometime, I'm sure you'll love it.
Picked mine up for £600 and its amazing
I'm currently sitting in my office at work on my lunch break watching this. Even though I'm not on company time, I don't think HR would appreciate it if I poured some Tullamore Dew and took my pants off at work...
Don't get me fired, Cameron...
Don't let your dreams stay dreams.
Your voice is very deep. It carries through the house. It travels well, i live in England...
A good video. Thank you.
Brilliant video dude, watched it start to fin, 🖤🖤🖤
I used to have the X-Station back in the day and it was the best hardware synth I’ve ever owned. Notation knows what’s up.
Never forget you made The Peak Sing. Kinda Brougt me to the Summit.
love the peak, Never has been boring. every time i play with it its fun
Definitely agree. One of those pieces of gear that always has some inspiration in it somewhere haha.
Same here. It worth every single penny I gave out for it. Such an intuitive, compact, and powerful synth. The only thing would be even better to have is the mighty Summit. Also the Novation update policy is one of a kind.
I’ve had the Peak since just after launch, when I was convinced by a Mylar Melodies video. It’s a great fun machine, very enjoyable to get lost in sound creation. I do have lots of gripes too. 1 - I wish we could decouple the oscillators from the amp envelope, and to bypass the filter for each oscillator. 2 - the envelopes are nasty. They have some really horrible moments, especially in the transition from decay to sustain. 3 - I wish we had a way to use the mod matrix like Moog do on the Sub37, just wiggle a knob to choose a destination from the top panel, and if Moog can make every single parameter a destination on the Sub37, it can’t be beyond the wit of Novation to allow you access to all parameters in the mod matrix.
And FYI, the 3 reverbs are not actually 3 algorithms. They are all the same, you’re just stepping between reverb sizes, so reverb 3 is achievable with either of the other 2. The 'rev size' parameter in the reverb menu is what you are actually changing, stepping between 0, 64 or 127.
I wish they would make master volume respond to CC07 messages. REAL pita it doesnt when using live from a controller......
@@paulmapp8306 wow, it doesn’t respond to CC07? Surely 7 and 10 are the absolute basics that every machine since about 1984 has implemented? I’ve never tried it because I only use it standalone.
@@danpreston564 nope master volume isnt mapped to ANYTHING. Novations response was "you can remotely control VCA gain for volume changes" - which you can BUT by NRPN not CC.... HUGE omission . I have to balance manually live if its not quite right instead of from my controller.
I totally agree with you, that it should be possible to bypass the filter for each OSC individually. I also feel you about the envelopes. They also react much different than any other synth I have and I have a couple of modular envelopes. Them being digital it should be possible to adjust the envelopes between linear, log, exp, or in between.
@@MrJemabaris patching the envelopes in the mod matrix back into themselves makes them sound better.
Kinda getting Ital Tek vibes in the intro. Amazing 😊
Another very very VERY helpful tutorial, thanks so much. I feel somewhat ashamed to even suggest something since you obviously are such a pro at this sort of thing, but, for me at least, when you are verbalizing what you're doing, say in the mod matrix, it is so much easier to understand if you show the screen. You did on a lot, but then go back to tweaking the knobs etc. and only tell us what you're doing, as opposed to telling and showing on the screen I own and love the Peak, and have watched this video a few times and have learned a lot. I find that after I've worked with an instrument for a while, I get a lot more out of tutorials like this. Thanks again for sharing your immense knowledge!
Great video, thanks for sharing! I pick up my Peak on Monday, can't wait!
Enjoy! It's an amazing synth.
This came at an appropriate time because I am shopping for a synth, it's between the deepmind and this. Think I would be much happier with this. Seems like a lot of fun !
I actually had a Deepmind for a bit! Great polysynth but definitely significantly more limited in it's sound palette. Definitely prefer the Peak unless you just need the classic analog poly style sounds. Even then though the Peak kills those patches too so it's definitely the better buy IMO.
@@VenusTheory yea if I got the deepmind I'd save money but I'm pretty sure I'd still lust after Peak. I demod them both a couple years ago and instantly liked the peak more. As you say it seems like it can do many styles really well plus there are more controls ! Do you find 8 voices sufficient?
Gonna order on Monday!
I bought it about a month ago and maaaaaaaaaannn. It's super fun messing with all the features and experimenting. So fun that I spend more time designing than producing.
@@wisefellaowlmaster8366 oh that sounds great! It really does look like so much fun. Deffo getting it. Can you tell me, can you change the order of the FX. I think delay before distortion could be really cool for example.
@@richardsmithson4453 yes you can 😎
"Disgusting snail's fart basses" - I'm sold.
Look at this stuff, and all this blinking stuff 🤣 That's convincing argument 😊
The Peak is truly one of the nicest synths ever created.
only in dreamm land all this can be done in free sylenth better ,,just digital arm junk
@@MrCcfly spoken like someone who can't afford physical synths. Insensitive to say, perhaps. Almost like going into a video about something people really like and trying to piss on their hobby like it's somehow stupid because there is a free alternative that, in your mind, is better only because it's free.
@@CaidicusProductions i just point how terrible peak isc that free vst beat it
@@MrCcfly VST are great but without real filters and distortion they are behind and hardware saves on CPU no way can you run VST synths Oscillators at 24Mhz like you can in Peak so you can do other things with your DAW like run more demanding effects plugins or run at higher sample rates. Hardware has a nicer feel.
@@MrCcfly Sylenth isn’t free…
Loved this video and the synth! Subbed
this has helped me with my decision to get a summit..cheers !
So glad you finally got to a hardware video. And congrats on 20k subs!
For sure! Next I need to convince myself to film a video about my Blofeld haha. And thanks so much!
Yes to the blofeld video! They are very affordable used and i keep almost buying one. You recommend it?
I'd love to see a full FM tutorial with the Peak.
Great video w tips of settings👍
Incredibly deep instrument and all that is needed is some patience! 🙃
I have yet to get a peak, but it’s on my list for the next synth. I have a digitone, and I understand what you’re saying about the peaks fm abilities, but I imagine that the digitone might do bells better because of the dual filters. Awesome vid man I’m subbing :)
I love my Peak as well, and, like you, I really wish they would add MPE capability to it. I have a Roli seaboard and I’ve got an Osmose on pre-order. I think the demand for MPE-compatible hardware synths will dramatically increase when Osmose is released in a few months.
For sure - I almost preordered the Osmose but don't really have space for something of that size. I've always wanted the Continuum but I'd be living in the box it came in haha. Perhaps we'll get lucky and see a desktop Osmose someday
The intro music triggers associations with Massive Attack's "Teardrop", which is fitting for a British Synth :) Lovely. And the rest of the video is well made too. Informative, informed and quality footage.
Thanks so much! Planning to do another like this someday for my Blofeld.
I’d be interested to hear your thoughts on the Peak vs Hydrasynth if you’ve tried it.
I've only very very briefly got to play with the Hydrasynth. I've been very close to purchasing one lately, but I think I'm saving instead for the Waldorf Iridium as it'll likely get MPE support + is likely more flexible for my sound design work given the multitude of synthesis engines.
@@VenusTheory Im doing the same thing Ive been waiting for the iridium for 2 months. Was thinking about giving in and buying the Peak.
Hey Martin, I did a head to head of those two. Not claiming to be as cool or as thorough is this gentlemen but feel free to check it out.
Thanks for the heads up, Keith. I’ll check it out.
@@VenusTheory That is obviously a wrong answer. You need the Hydrasynth AND Iridium. :)
I own the Summit, twice the goodness, and 16 voices for a great price. I agree with all your reasons why it’s a great polysynth. I’m worried about you though, “take your pants off”?
A cool FM synthesis as well
Great review! Agreed hardware should be attractive and invite you in to stay. Sounds great too. This is on my shopping list.
I would like to hear ur opinion about the peak vs the hydrasynth. Because i can afford only one and im troubeled making a choise...
Same!
I love watching your UA-cam reviews. I'm very glad I found you. I would like to hear your advice on whether to take Novation Peak as your first synthesizer. No, of course, I used to have Monologue, jd-xi, korg electribe, but this is not what I wanted from the sound when interacting with a synthesizer. Is it not to hard to understand it for the first time. And, of course, I will need a midi keyboard, such as arturia
Was looking for a real polyphonic HW synth to finalize my stup and complement my moog stuff (matriarch, Phatty, Dfam, Mother and Sub). I also wanted something with a different timbre cause moogs soud great but they are all in the same area. And the peak was the perfect choice to move away from VST. Digital Oscillators, Anlogue Filter. A lot of control on the surface (mean stuff you actually use. Like all the FX). Watched this video and got convinced. Found one new at black friday for 949 and I knew I had to go. So happy with it. It really complements my moog soundscape. I have a phatty for bass but sometimes they don't cut through the mix, especially if I'm already using a lot of Moog stuff. That's where the peak shine (same classical novation timbre as from the bass station). Even for basses is crazy
Nice setup up. Can the internal peaking and distortion be fix by lowering osc levels?
Been really considering buying one and I think you just sold me...
Highly recommend it! Outside the lack of MPE and the user wavetables being limited, I can't really say I have any complaints. The only real competitor IMO is the Waldorf Iridium but that's kinda apples and oranges really.
@@VenusTheory It now has the uploadable user wavetables right?
Sir we are begging you, please peel the protective plastic off of the display. It is almost certainly muffling some of the notes.
Love the part of the whiskey...great review man,thanks !I have Ultranova...but i am thinking,is Novation Peak sound engine different,will sound better than my Ultranova ???
I think I might go for this instead of the DeepMind12D.
24:30 YES! I recently made a choice between a MicroKorg and a MiniNova when i was looking for a synth with a vocoder. I bought the MiniNova because, (1) MiniNova was cheaper, (2) I have a Korg Minilogue but nothing by Novastation, (3) I loved the blueness of the MiniNova. I am a guitarist and I do the same thing with pedals, as in, "Hmmmm. There's nothing green on my pedalboard." I like to look down and see something that looks like Christmas with colorful boxes and blinking lights.
Thinking of picking up one of these. Tired of VST instruments breaking up as they strain my rather fast CPU.
Highly recommend it. I love this thing so much haha.
Also a vst can’t even scratch the fatness of this beast.
I might get one.
I sometimes hear clipping in your examples. Is this internal clipping of the peak?
I'm wondering the same. Perhaps if osc levels were lowered maybe this would resolve?
Thanks for the Peak Love. Love it for the same reasons. The overall workflow, layout, quality feel of the knobs/encoders/faders all contribute to remaining a classic hybrid. Knowing Novation, they will likely surprise us by popping new Easter Egg functionality into the code base moving forward, a trade mark of Novation. Love your channel, content and honest feedback because you actually own and use these products; unlike the "sell out" UA-cam reviewers who simply do a review and move on to the next GAS de jour. Gratefully.
For sure! Definitely one of the highlights of my setup, and always something new to discover with it. I'm holding my breath for an MPE update!
Glad you enjoy the channel as well, really glad to hear that kind of feedback! In the near-ish future as well I hope to do a video like this one on my Blofeld!
@@VenusTheory Good to know. Will stay tuned for it. Thanks again for your continued investment to your viewers. Gratefully.
Has the Peak been updated recently?I´m very excited about it.
Not very recently - hoping to see them add MPE and voice panning at some point though!
Firmware 2 is out for summit 🍻
I already had my pants off. Pandemic remote working has changed me...
Just bought one.
It seems a great instrument.
The Hydra is a great synth in the same price range.
But, they both sound different, which is what I enjoy.
This seems like a really nice peace of gear. Would it be a good first hardware since for someone who has dabbled a little bit with VST synths?
Yes it can be simple or very deep.
6:37 I swear I use the HPF on the Deepmind just as much as the VCF just to clean up the low end, sad that Peak is missing that.
Yeah certainly not the end of the world but really wish they'd add a simple digital highpass somewhere in the settings menu haha. I love super rich bass tones and all but man the Peak can really be overly beefy at times haha. Weird problem to have!
@@VenusTheory Can you not use the BP for this, or the HP, by changing the filter shape?
Nice video. I tested a summit the last view days and I really wanted to like it. It is rather flexible, that's the good part. But my main problem was that it couldn't sound analogish like advertising is saying. Maybe it was a problem with the gear I had, but it sounded awfully dull and "plastic" even compared to some of my vsti's in the mix. Too little high dizzle and strengh. I tried a lot of adjustments within the synth and eq to handle it but in the end I send it back. Too bad. But I think it's just a matter of taste.
Yeah I guess I can hear that to some degree. One of very few digital synths to nail a nice low end that I've heard, but I get what you mean that the sound has a bit of a uncanny valley vibe of 'too good' but also not quite 'explosive' like you hear on some of the classics. But, I mean for $1300, pretty damn hard to beat in terms of a workhorse synth.
@@VenusTheory now 800 euros second hand....
I’d like a multitimbral Peak
Would love to see you do something on the Novation Summit, or maybe they're too similar for that to be worth your while?
If I had the money, I totally would haha. Maybe I'll get in touch with Novation though and see if I can get one to play with on the channel. Two Peaks in one and I'd be over the moon!
@@VenusTheory would be rad!
Hello. I’m know that this might be a silly question, but I’m new into the music producing hobby … so here’s my question:
I’m absolutely drawn towards the hardware synthesis, but I hesitate to buy one, because I wonder if I could do exactly the same within my DAW (Ableton).
Is it worth buying a hardware gear?
Can you overwrite the stock sounds to have more custom presets?
Yep!
Great video and channel, thanks. Quick question: is the summit simply Peak x 2 or is it more complicated than that? If the latter, how so? 🤔
It's a little bit different, mostly in that it has an extra filter and a few other extra features. Mostly in the interface (more controls on the device) and the ability to run stuff through the Summit's effects. Not sure if there are many other differences offhand though
Is that whooshing sound prior to the kick transient, from modulated white noise? Cool sounding effect.
Something along those lines, a bit hard to remember!
Liked the video simply because you instructed me to remove my pants and pour myself a glass of whiskey. Straight class.👌
3 matrix make loud but little complex machine.
Did they spell Synthesizer wrong on the interfase?!
What is better, the virus ti desktop or novation peak?
Pretty hard question haha - suppose it depends on who you ask. Personally, I'd love to have both!
Good salesman
In the UK 'pants' is underwear.
Just you know 😂
No underpants are underwear.
Does the peak have split?
Now, the only benefit for hardware synth for me is that you have physical controls over it (knobs and buttons). And that's it.
Have much more capability in software, doesn't require space, not collecting dust, and cost much chipper. However, I can get any sound I want using different combinations of plugins and automation.
i think you must try this synth before drawing a conclusion . I like to use U-he Synths , serum etc... but the Peak is really magic , the sounds are so huge ( especially thanks to the reverb , ) I made a song with different VSTs and I replaced each track with the peak. the difference was awesome.
yeah if you want to use your mouse this is totally fine. i went the hardware route because i am sitting in front of the computer for 8 hours every day. hardware and just focusing on the one thing and just listening to the sound is a different approach. its more meditation and i feel like i am getting deeper into the sound
You can't get Analog filters and it's tonal quality and warmth from any digital VST or any digital hardware.
So there's one example of a sound you can't get or make.
So Peal or Summit?🤔
Thoughts on this vs. DSI Rev2? Have you tried the latter?
Almost bought a Rev 2 actually when I was looking to get the Peak. I think it's a pretty solid choice either way. I still want a Rev 2 possibly when space/money allows, and I didn't get a chance to play one firsthand as the store I went to didn't have one. But, once I played with the Peak at the store I just immediately felt like it did what I wanted in a synth. No regrets at all.
The only concern id have about buying this is if I wanted to use it as my only synth and wanted to use it for both pad and lead. It seems I'd have to record the pad and then change settings for the lead and then not be able to adjust the pad after? Hope I'm making sense.
I have the same question. Dont want to buy a second peak :D
I have a small but growing synth collection (mostly Volcas but also a Microfreak and hopefully soon a Neutron, with the Peak being a strong contender after this video). I have tried having everything hooked up so I can trigger by MIDI and change things whenever I want and honestly…it’s more hassle than it’s worth, IMO. I just end up thinking I could’ve done the same thing in software. So mostly I just record one thing at a time, and I commit to audio, and then move on. It’s definitely a different way of working but personally I like it. So in answer to your question, yes, you’d need to record, change, record, repeat.
Paul - I'm the opposite to you, sequencing via midi is 2nd nature to me after doing it for 30+ years.
Combining that with audio on a DAW is frustrating so I just use midi.
How do you deal with the low end with the peak? I also find it a little over powering on the low end.
Really I just have a highpass ready to go in the DAW haha. Lovely massive low end but very overpowering a lot of the time. Really wish there was some basic digital highpass filter added!
I wish I could Subscribe More Than Once.
I also wish I had more money.
And more motivation.
And my genie is now used up.
You can make another account if you really wanted to turn that wish into reality.
I have a video of patches I've made demonstrating the power of the supersaws on the Peak/Summit. Check my channel if you want to hear how the supersaws sound. There's not many demos online, most videos focus on it's excellent ambient and analogue sounds.
Had to stop watching when I saw that you still have the plastic cover over the display. Looks like you might have actually peeled it off and then put it back on! How do you sleep at night you monster?
Haha I have actually never peeled it off! That said, I can't tell you why I've left it on this long. Perhaps it's a deep seeded form of masochism.
@@VenusTheory Or, you know, just what you wanted to do with your own Peak. I find it so weird how something becomes "the way people should do something", or just something that we're all convinced we should do, think, or feel, and any failure to comply becomes reason enough to try to convince everyone else to comply...
Was that internal distortion/peaking around 8:28 ?
Hard to say but judging by ear it sounds like the peak internal filter drive
Hi, can this be linked with Behringer neutron and the Arturia keystep?
It can via MIDI! It also has some basic CV connections on the back if you wanted to link up with modular or other CV gear.
Just one CV in and no CV outs? Real missed opportunity!
NO secuencer? Thanks for answer c:
i gut one new for 500€ and that was the luckiest day in my life
can I ask where?
@@a.c.2211 got it from a friedn who got it as a promo or something
Damn, that's a great deal haha.
@@thegurkenkaiser9933 llll
I hope this isn’t a dumb question -but since this uses wave tables and digital effects is it meaningfully different than a soft synth?
It has some analog circuitry I believe, plus other hardware which you wouldn’t get in your pc/Mac.
@@robsutton6469 The filter is analog
@@joeyadarkwah2587 there you go Philip. Can’t replicate an analog filter, that’s where your £££ go.
@@robsutton6469 Got it. Thanks!!
No dumb questions here. We're all here to learn!
In short, the filter is actually analog which does make a BIG difference in the final sound. You won't really find that in a VST besides maybe something like Diva or Ultra Analog 3. Beyond that the biggest thing IMO is that you don't have to boot a computer to use it.
If I wander into my studio at 2am and want to jam in my underpants, I can flip this on, noodle about, and move on. There is also something to be said for the hands-on and not looking at a computer aspect.
If you don't have any hardware synths and are maybe curious about it, I'd check out the Behringer synthesizers or maybe even a Waldorf Blofeld (extremely powerful, not that expensive).
Can you import vital speach wave tables?
Yep! It only does 5 frames so it's not quite the same, but you can import custom wavetables made in Vital!
Just bought the full Moog modular stuff (DFAM, SUBHARMONICON, MATRIARCH and Mother 32 + already owning a SUB PHATTY) to go dawless and looking for a polyphonic to replace VST in my set to accompany my set especially with PADS. I was already thinking of going for this given the pricing (Dave smith rev8 it's far more expensive and not so better sounding). Would you suggest that to mix with the moog sound and create something different (moog stuff has all the same timbre in the end)?
What are you playing on? Triggering with ...
You can trigger it from midi out on a daw or by a midi keyboard from USB or midi.
How is your Cubase setup for the Peak? - I have problems with the midi clock ...
You sold me a peak
Welcome to the club then! Maybe let Novation know for me haha 😉
kick and snare with the peak ? really ?
Yep! The snare is just some bandpassed noise with a fair bit of resonance. Kick was just a sine wave with a pitch envelope and some filter drive.
👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
Love the Peak, but you're dead wrong about it being more powerful at FM than the Digitone. You LIKE it better than the Digitone. And that is totally fine.