Bought my HS Deluxe 2,5 years ago after my dying wife (cancer) asked me to. Demoing the Deluxe soothed my wife so much that she was able to finally sleep on the living room sofa, even with all the pain she was under. In her words, this is the best sounding instrument I ever bought. This included several Moogs, a Hammond A100, a piano, acoustic and electric guitars and some bass guitars. Actually, two years after she passed, I could not agree more... Live or in a home studio, it never failed to deliver in the Prog Metal context. It is all personal taste, but... This thing will never leave me! 🤗🤗🤗
As an ex Hydra owner. I have to say it sounds pretty bad. Like a cheap plasticy sound. I would stick to korg minilogue or something similar but not this Chinese crap. The features and the build quality are quite awesome and it also makes some nice pads but the FX, Fillers and oscillators just suck. And the fact that you cant upload your own samples or wavetables and the lack of a sequencer just broke my heart. I would say unless you’re someone who plays live with Synthesizers alot while using only your own sounds for it and not rely on presets. Even then i would ask you to consider other options. As it might feel like it’s bang for your buck given its features on paper but the sound just doesn’t hit the spot always. I spent a big chunk of my savings on it but was heavily disappointed.
Love this synth. However if you buy this second hand and (for example) the display dies, you will have a nice brick because you have no warranty or support, even if the synth is still under factory warranty (only for the original buyer!) 😂 Trying to get help is nearly impossible. Such display costs around 10 bucks (if you know the component number 😢) So you better buy it new or not. It happened to me.
If you want to control cutoff frequency and envelope decay simultaneously, it's quite easy to set up with a macro - each preset has user-definable macros that occupy the master control display and knobs in Home mode. This and the extensive mod matrix make the UI very customizable, I find it's a synth built for performance.
Additionally, if you want to have access to more than four parameters at once then you can use a MIDI controller. I have the Explorer and I really don't foresee ever needing any other poly.
Right. That would be easy to do with the macros and the mod matrix, wouldn't it? So what does Wine&Synths mean when he says you'd need to buy a more expensive synth for that? (16:21) I guess he's thinking of how you'd have to reassign at least one knob for independent control of each additional parameter, sacrificing immediate access to the parameters the knob was assigned to before.
Is it easy to map the knobs from an external MIDI controller to parameters in Explorer? Is there something like a MIDI learn feature, or do you have to enter cc numbers?
@@anonymoushuman8344 Like most (all?) hardware synths, the CC#s are assigned to the functions at the factory. Suppose you want to control A, D, S, and R for envelope 1 and envelope 2 with 8 separate knobs. They are CC 81, 82, 83, 84, for env1 and 85, 86, 87, & 88 for env2. How you configure your MIDI controller to send those CCs depends on the controller. Some of them have software that you can just type the CC into a box on the computer. Some have a little screen so you can twist the knob you want to assign, and then use an encoder to pick the CC. It's good to have one with several preset slots, so you can switch between configurations.
Nice video, thank you. Pairing it with a grenache is an interesting choice but it makes sense. I also suggest a petit sirah....it can also stand up well with a bold Cabernet Sauvignon. oh, and....not made in the same factory as Arturia products...
Just my opinion which doesn’t mean squat, anyone that thinks the explorer is a disappointment isn’t doing it right. Who knew? Update 2.0 with modular, is the most complicated and accurate sound design tool I can think of. No offense.
I deeply regret selling my Deluxe. It was the physical size of it that meant it had to go, I just don't have the room. I'd bite their hands off for a desktop module version of the deluxe (obvs, I wouldn't get the poly AT that the keyboard version gives you, but I can get that from my Push 3)
I've been enjoying my Hydrasynth as well. I ended up getting the Deluxe because I wanted at least one bigger keyboard with full size keys for me to brush up on my technique with, and it has features that almost no dedicated midi controllers cheaper than the Deluxe itself have. It's fortunate that a seasoned synth designer of considerable skill and passion was hired directly by a keyboard manufacturer to exploit their specialty to the fullest in a comparatively affordable synth line. And thanks to Thomann; even with the frustrating import fees for Chinese products like this in the US, I still got it for over 200 dollars less than the intended MSRP of 1799...in the middle of the summer no less, not the holiday sales season.
Why would anyone use this in a studio? VSTs are for the studio, synths are for playing live. Small battery-powered synths are for playing live in fun places 😁
Hallo Finde Deine Tests klasse, insbesondere weil sie auf der Perspektive der konkreten Nutzung basieren. Auch ist toll, dass Du jeweils die Videos mit Musik des Instruments unterlegst. Hier wieder ein toller Test, die Hydras sind echte Ausnahmeerscheinungen. Ich konnte einen original Hydra gebraucht ergattern und empfinde ihn als Referenz. Die Engine ist beeindruckend und der Sound sitzt. Aber vor allem das Userinterface macht ihn zu einem Synth, den man viel mehr als Instrument empfindet, als viele hochgelobten Modelle. Ich habe hier auch einen Super6 der ähnlich konsequent eine Richtung verfolgt und damit gewinnt. Auch da fand ich Deine Eindrücke sehr passend. Danke! Ein heisser Typ zum Testen wäre der OpSix. Leider wie die zwei anderen Korgs traurig verpackt... aber die Engine FM/Sub und der Sound (aber nicht DX-like crisp) ! UI nicht so effizient wie dasjenige der Hydras, aber für FM eine satte Leistung. Nichts Vergleichbares ... Könnte Dir gefallen.
Thanks so much for your awesome information. I have had my new Hydrasynth deluxe for 2 weeks now and love it. I hope all is well in Your world 🌎. Mark Bensette Aux Bois 🇨🇦.
Very nice video. Perfect to evaluate if I need a Deluxe or not. One virtual bottle of Barbaresco to you as a thankful message. Of course I will go to a shop to test it with my hands before buying
I think the interface shares many similarities to the Ensoniq line of synthesisers, ESQ-1 for instance, which where almost menu-less. I really like the one button per section design.
Backside is metal, front and side all plastic. It is heavier than a Mininova or a JD-xi (both full plastic), but significantly lighter than a MiniAk. I would call it a mini-tank. Knobs and switches seem to be of very good quality. Yet, my Explorer loses its Polyphonic Aftertouch capability after being switched on continuously for two or three days. To get it back, it must be rebooted. Everything else works fine.
@@pontram Losing poly aftertouch seems like a pretty big deal. Are you sure it's not a bug or flaw in your specific unit? I would contact customer support about the issue.
@@l1fef0rm You're probably right, but my unit works flawlessly, with this one exception. Besides, I am out of warranty, since I didn't care about this for too long. In my dumb mind, I took it as a kind of personality thing, like my DM12, where the display has sometimes, but not always, a dead row...
A lot of people in the comments wanted a synth that can do it all. Such thing don't exist and don't think it will ever. For the price you can do a lot with this thing. Once again what you want to do and how capable you are is the question.
Well, you can essentially “do it all,” but you have to put your money towards something like Komplete or Omnisphere, which isn’t entirely satisfying if you’re a tactile and hardware purist.
I had a Hydrasynth on loan for a while and I did not really click with it. The sound it delivered didn’t justify the complexity of operation for me, and I kept getting nicer sounds with less effort from my other synths. I understand that some people enjoy a challenge, but for me it felt like the Hydra is getting in the way of my productivity.
This is a valid point. I love my HS Explorer, but you can certainly get lost. I find my Dreadbox Typhon and Nymphes deliver the sounds they're known for very quickly
Thanks a lot. I am a beginner and I want to own my first synth. Considered this ASM, Yamaha reface CS, Novation MiniNova or the Roland jd xi. I think I'm gonna choose the ASM hydrasynth thanks to you and all the other rewievs, articles I have watched and read. Greetings from Düsseldorf!
Hello Josef! I think you made the right decision out of this choice! The Hydrasynth is also a very educational synth and really easy to handle. Take your time to explore it! Enjoy! And greetings to good old Düsseldorf! 🤖
Did you think about the Waldorf Blofeld too? It's versatile, has wavetable on board, a deep mod matrix, does FM and VA and inherits a distinct sound character. This beast is a perfect synth, not only for beginners. It's also programmable via a VST editor.
I'm waiting on mine , but i just want to use it as a standalone synth with great presets, particually as they are acoustically designed . I notice on the Facebook page & other comments a lot of people are struggling with the Eagan Matrix , I'd personally re-think if it is worth getting just as a controller ! ! It might be a huge learning curve .
It is April 2024. I was banking on purchasing a Sequential Take 5. I had written Hydrasynth Explorer off, but I might change my mind. What I’m in search of is a portable synth capable of emulating my ARP Odyssey clone (as well as Moog, Oberheim & Sequential) but with patch memory capabilities (4 banks of *128 patches,* baby) and that coveted Yamaha-inspired poly touch. That this is meant to be a PPG- and Ensoniq-style wavetable synth is worth taking into consideration for the future. As attractive as Take 5 is with VCOs, 44 full-size keys and dedicated knob-per-function controllers, I would still probably be better off HS Explorer. All it lacks architecturally is a vocoder, and I could get a vocoder module later if I chose this bugger.
Very informative Sir. I am a "Teetotaller" so I don't drink wine. But I love synthesizers and the Explorer looks like good value. I have reservations about mini keys but these look a bit bigger than other mini keys and are probably high quality to play rather than toy like as with many others.
3:39 Your videos title had me worried... I call that bait, but I agree hoping people swallow the hook, line and sinker for their own good. Although Roland, Elka, and a few other companies back in the 80's and early 90's saw the need for individual key response in all aspects of key response to create expression like a properly controlled string, the advantages of Poly AT was lost to marketing as if CH AT was a useable option instead. With CH AT now left out of expensive keyboards the truth is being exposed as sounds evolve and become more complex where CH AT just makes a mess of the individual sounds and effects in use INDIVIDUALLY per key complementing each other's separation in tonal space. The electronic keyboard has the potential to emulate a string and go far beyond the norm, but until ASM came along they were grossly limited in expression. Not having Poly AT with velocity sensitivity in both directions is a sin in today's age of the computer so let's just hope KORG (so it's easy to use) dumps MIDI 1 to embrace NRPN and some Standard for high resolution POLY AT with Release Velocity implemented in KORG's next workstation, and a firmware update for older Kronos ET.al boards to deal with the new high-resolution standard of whatever KORG comes up with. I'd REALLY like to see a high-end quality weighted 77/88 key high resolution Poly AT controller with better key action on par with Kawai's excellent VPCT controller modified for synth needs. I would even consider programmable (magnetic) escapement allowing for other time-based controller response features connected to natural oscillation response values. The KORG OASYS showed people WILL pay for a high-cost workstation if it does the job better... so now that the music industry is exploding with new gear AND new musicians aware of Poly AT it's time for the name brand manufactures to focus on the keyboards expression capabilities as musicians will do whatever it takes to "get there" wherever in time that may be. BTW... the 73 key ASM Hydrasynth Deluxe works better than expected as a 73 key Poly AT MIDI controller allowing one to blend in Poly AT controlled voices that complement the voices in use on another synth. Great Hydrasynth video...
My American takeaway: the keyboard feels cheap. The keys are wiggly. The aftertouch actually feels OK, but that’s it. It’s super easy to drive this thing into bad aliasing, sometimes even using modest settings. Not just when doing drive and FM, but even simple things like oscillator sync. Why give two Mutators per oscillator when you can’t render them properly? Do yourself a favor and use it as a controller for Vital, or another decent wavetable plugin.
Thanks for your suggestion! The Wavestate doesn't really appeal to me. Back in the days, I already did not really like the Wavestation. But I maybe I should try one as they have the new models out now.
I just bought a Hydrasynth deluxe, but it hasn't arrived yet. I'm starting to fear that it may be over complicated for my novice understanding of synth parameters and settings, lol.
Been trying to justify a fancy komplet kontrol s-series, but why would I pay that for a midi controller when I can get this for less. Looks better built too.
Me as a creator can tell you that this is a remarkable synth. Specially for hardware beginners! I just bought an explorer for my sons progressive rock-bands live shows and my assistant got the desktop for his techno prods. We all really like it! 🍀
bonjour j ai question concernant ce synthé ....est ce que je peux l utiliser comme clavier comme par exemple mon clavier keylab 61 d arturia et analog 5 ect donc exclusivement par usb daw?
@@winesynths deja merci de me repondre ils sont de plus en plus rares ceux qui ont cette attitude ^^ donc si je branche l hydrasynth je pourrais utiliser ses banques sons qui lui sont dédiés par exemple 2 ou 3 pistes sur abbleton exclusivement pour l hydrasynth ......donc il possede sa propre bilbliotheque ?
While living in Copenhagen currently and being in my home made studio I miss two things after seing this video. 1. Being in Germany and 2. Having the ASM Explorer. Finding a scoop on Kleinanzeigen and then just drive down to one or two of the beautiful places in Germany would just be cherry on the top!
I only got a Hydra for its PolyAT. It has some other perks... but overal I have to agree the sound is unappealing, like I'm playing 2009 synth VSTs. I've been squeezing it for fat sounds and I've had some minor successes, but only due to the dual soundengine capabilities (since my Hydra is a Deluxe)
the Hydra is a blank canvass on which you can make really good or really bad sounds and lets you decide for yourself what that means but it doesn't "do it" for you, you have to do it yourself. *not for the inexperienced
I'm getting a Hydra (for free) one of these days, but why does EVERYONE on YT try to sound like Vangelis with it? Show me Front242, DAF, or, if you dare, Skinny Puppy!
We are just switching from Vangelis to Jarre since the Behringer Solina came out! 🤖 The Vangelis CS Sound is one of the first presets! Could be a reason! 😉
The first tune I make with the machine and post on my channel will be named "Hydra". Keep an eye out if you're not too deep into Vangelis and Jarre. ;)
Im englischen gibt es zwei Aussprachen für das TH Einmal bei z.b "thing" Das wird im deutschen aber nicht "sing" ausgesprochen sondern eher "fing" (mit vorgeschobener Zunge) Und dann gibt es noch z.b "that" das im deutschen aber nicht "set" ausgesprochen wird sondern eher "wet" ( mit vorgeschobener Zunge)
@@OMPTraxxs Sorry! Bin mittlerweile etwas genervt, weil echt nur „Deutsche“ darüber meckern! 🙄😁 Dabei hatte ich so einen tollen Kurs gebucht: ua-cam.com/video/Hmy-N4AFNDM/v-deo.html
I have now spent 30min trying to get the Hydra connected. The original powersupply was apparantly lost, so I used one of my multi-adapters. Making sure of the polarity I switched it on. Company logo animated and then "Hydrasynth" slowly blinking until steady. --- No sound ---- Tried the same cable with a volca and almost blew my monitors, so no cable-problems. Can it be so that the Hydra demands 1000mA to make a sound? My multi-supply only delivered 12V 500mA. Since it's not my synth yet, I decided to disconnect it and ask someone who knows things.
thanks again! I've got it working, and of course I try to ignore my inner Vangelis. Have just started to experiment making my own EBM bass sounds. (It will be a long night!)
Ich habe mir den ersten Hydrasynth gleich zu Beginn zugelegt und er ist ein Kernstück meiner Musik (Berliner Schule und Electro). Einsame Spitze, das Gerät ! Toller Kanal, weiter so, Gruß aus Spandau
Schöne Grüße zurück! Je mehr neue Synths wir hier unter die Lupe nehmen, desto besser finden wir den Hydrasynth als Gesamtpaket! Irgendwann kaufe ich auch einen. Weiß nur noch nicht, welchen! 🍀
@@winesynths bought it anyway was looking your nice Video with Hydra and Modwave. Modwave ist powerfull but No sweet Spot monster. Hydra is to modular If you know what i mean. Hope the Argon will fit Well as my First Hardware Synth
i really like the performance features of the all the hydras. i have already mentioned that i want to wait for the next gen of digitals because i dont really like how it sounds, but you do make a good argument for getting the explorer as a controller. how does this keybed compare to the UNO pro? that keybed looks nice too. 9min11sec of the video freaked me out. my interface is a 1st gen 2i4 and i have a lexicon mx400 haha. it is funny when you see your own gear in a video. FWIW, i am going to replace the 2i4 with a motu M4. i really dont like the ring LEDs. i watch the meters on my mixer
Welcher? Der: ua-cam.com/video/TLQXuX_H9l8/v-deo.html Hat mich ansatzweise auch daran erinnert, wenn man es aber hintereinander anhört merkt man dass es hier wirklich nur kleine Abweichungen sind 😉
@@OMPTraxxs ja, den meinte ich. Aber viele native speaker lieben den deutschen Akzent. In sofern kultig. Fachlich aber ok! Ich hab sowas noch nicht fertig gebracht. Gibt die Sprachimitatoren ( leik mi🤣) und die Leute, welche an der Schrift " hängen" und die Buchstaben deutsch denken und sprechen.
I don't use mine at the moment because I have so many damn new synths, but I wouldn't be without it. It has too much ability. I have to catch up to it on my end and I'm glad to know it's waiting for me when I get serious.
Why do neither the Hydrasynth Explorer or the Argon 8, respond to CC2 (Breath)? Is it some sort of prejudice against wind players? The fact that the designer of the EWI4000s was involved in the design of this one just leaves me asking WTF? I was really disappointed to find that the Explorer lacks the CV In of the bigger model too. I'd have been happier if they'd left off CV Out, and kept CV In. Yes, I could work around it, in some half assed way, but why would I spend my money to buy something where the designer didn't care to provide the most basic things I need from it? I genuinely was about to buy one or the other, today, but having looked into what they left out, I'm not buying either.
That‘s a good question! To be honest I totally missed this detail. Being a Saxophone and flute player myself, I abandoned the search for electronic wind instruments a long time ago. My last one was a Casio! 😁 What can you recommend?
@@winesynths That's another good question :) Maybe the DSI Mopho, which I haven't tried to play in a while but it does have some potential - and a Mod matrix that's quite happy to accept CC2. It means either fiddling with a software editor, to make sounds, or setting up a fairly elaborate MIDI controller. I wouldn't rule out a Yamaha TX7/DX7 or TX802, but again, very fiddly to edit. I've had an on/off relationship with a DynaSample XpressO for a while. It's essentially just a ROMpler, that's been tweaked as a wind instrument. The XpressO can sound good, for some of its sounds, but holding long notes shows it's just repeating a sample, over and over, with an ugly join. The user interface makes me want to scream, and yearn for the relative simplicity and user friendliness of the Yamaha FM synth, and it's buggy as a stained mattress in a dodgy youth hostel. I'd far rather be playing one of my flutes, clarinets or saxes, or brass implements, but I have neighbours. Even a penny whistle beats any synth I've yet played with a wind controller, but every now and then I try again.
@@winesynths As a controller, the Yamaha WX5 is the best, IMHO. Some people prefer the WX7, but the WX5 is a little bit wider, between the fingers, which makes it more comfortable for me, and it has a couple of useful but not essential extras - a couple of not quite palm keys, that have their own rules, and a partly configurable thumb wheel. I also own a Roland AE-10, which I try to like, and occasionally do, but it annoys me that Roland decided the pitch bend from the reed should only go down, never up, and the keys are really pretty poor, clicky "tactile" buttons. The Casio DH-100 feels nicer to play. It's a shame the Casio's lack a lip / bite control, but none of the others really get that right anyway. The WX5/WX7 are closest - the response is a bit laggy, and low resolution, but it sort of works. The EWI4000s bite control is just useless, as far as I'm concerned. It auto centres, so all you can do is get some sort of vibrato by chewing on it. The octave rollers are pretty awful too. Having to move your left thumb around so much makes for really uncomfortable fingering, and I can rarely find the octave I want without a glitch.
@@TooSlowTube Allright! So I will continue to improve my keyboard skills! 😁 I would just be happy with a good midi controller without any internal sounds.
"Chinese takeaway"? That may have been intended as solely a clickbait or pun, but it sounded racist and uninformed and put me off from the video and channel - especially given the ASM recognised quality, its Hong Kong origin (which makes the Chinese pun quite problematic) and the people involved in the synth creation, which include Glen Darcey, who worked for Akai and Arturia and was involved in the creation of highly quality stuff. No offence intended.
Everybody loves chinese takeaways all around the world! They are delicious nourishing and affordable! Don‘t mix up loving play with stereotypes and racism! Glen Darcy left a nice comment here as well. So you are really the first to feel offended after 16000 views! Come on! Are you even Chinese or asian in any way? 🙄
@@winesynths Sympathetic with Asmuk, here. Feels like cheap clickbait. I'm sure there are a few "lovingly playful" things people say about Germans that you (and I, a non-German) find annoying.
The Hydrasynth is the most disappointing sounding synth of the modern era per the hype. Sure it has a deep feature set for its cost, but its raw tone is bland and unvarying. Every sound, even complex, has a shared overtone. Before trying one in person, I bought the hype and preordered a Deluxe right after the announcement... I had to force myself to use it everyday for a month only to ultimately follow what my ears told me on day 1. It still shocks me how much praise they get. Of course tastes vary widely in sound and music, this is just my 2 cents... ~CS80, Matrix 12, OBX, JP4/6/MKS80, Voyetra 8, Chroma, Prophet 5 Rev 2 & VS, A6, The River, XTk, Q, 3rd Wave owner.
I also had a Hydrasynth Explorer for a month. I wanted to love it, and it made an excellent controller. However, I couldn't gel with it, and the oscillator sync produced extreme aliasing. I found that the MicroMonsta 2 and Nova synths have sweet spots and character the Hydra lacks. The Hydra sounds like it's trying way too hard to sound like everything.
@@MrMissingReelHi, by that, I mean encoders that stop working properly, making the instrument hard or impossible to use. Waldorf is (or at least was) notorious for this. My Blofeld and my Microwave xt had this problem. The Blofeld got sent back to the factory for "repairs", and came back damaged and with the encoders in even worse condition. It was my favourite synth, so I am very wary these days, when checking out new gear...
Bought my HS Deluxe 2,5 years ago after my dying wife (cancer) asked me to. Demoing the Deluxe soothed my wife so much that she was able to finally sleep on the living room sofa, even with all the pain she was under. In her words, this is the best sounding instrument I ever bought. This included several Moogs, a Hammond A100, a piano, acoustic and electric guitars and some bass guitars. Actually, two years after she passed, I could not agree more...
Live or in a home studio, it never failed to deliver in the Prog Metal context.
It is all personal taste, but... This thing will never leave me! 🤗🤗🤗
what an awesome story! All the best to you! ♥️
As an ex Hydra owner. I have to say it sounds pretty bad. Like a cheap plasticy sound. I would stick to korg minilogue or something similar but not this Chinese crap. The features and the build quality are quite awesome and it also makes some nice pads but the FX, Fillers and oscillators just suck. And the fact that you cant upload your own samples or wavetables and the lack of a sequencer just broke my heart. I would say unless you’re someone who plays live with Synthesizers alot while using only your own sounds for it and not rely on presets. Even then i would ask you to consider other options. As it might feel like it’s bang for your buck given its features on paper but the sound just doesn’t hit the spot always. I spent a big chunk of my savings on it but was heavily disappointed.
And I have similar things to say about half of Arturia products. They all look good on paper!
@@analogrealms I believe Arturia has shown several times it is better at software than any kind of hardware instruments.
you did it wrong
Thanks so much for your awesome information
Chinese takeaway? It's Glenn Darcey's brainchild who also worked for Arturia and Akai
Thanks so much for your awesome information
@@wgaule the Hydrasynth is one of the best synths of the last decade together with the Novation Summit and Peak.
I don’t think he means that phrase as an insult. He likes the keyboard
It’s made by slope heads. Who care about Glenn.
He’s got to be in contact with the guy who made the Isla s4000 because the case & interface seem like they were made by the same company.
Love this synth. However if you buy this second hand and (for example) the display dies, you will have a nice brick because you have no warranty or support, even if the synth is still under factory warranty (only for the original buyer!) 😂 Trying to get help is nearly impossible. Such display costs around 10 bucks (if you know the component number 😢) So you better buy it new or not. It happened to me.
I love my hydra desktop. It pushes me to experiment in a way no other synth does. It can create everything I can imagine.
Then please imagine some 80s style EBM! Seriously!
@@totalSLACK
Uh. It has keys?
Also, programming sequences is a thing.
16:30 you can. There's a mod matrix for that and you just press the mod source button and the destination button, adjust attenuation and voila.
If you want to control cutoff frequency and envelope decay simultaneously, it's quite easy to set up with a macro - each preset has user-definable macros that occupy the master control display and knobs in Home mode. This and the extensive mod matrix make the UI very customizable, I find it's a synth built for performance.
Literally every synth needs macros like this one has.
Additionally, if you want to have access to more than four parameters at once then you can use a MIDI controller. I have the Explorer and I really don't foresee ever needing any other poly.
Right. That would be easy to do with the macros and the mod matrix, wouldn't it? So what does Wine&Synths mean when he says you'd need to buy a more expensive synth for that? (16:21) I guess he's thinking of how you'd have to reassign at least one knob for independent control of each additional parameter, sacrificing immediate access to the parameters the knob was assigned to before.
Is it easy to map the knobs from an external MIDI controller to parameters in Explorer? Is there something like a MIDI learn feature, or do you have to enter cc numbers?
@@anonymoushuman8344 Like most (all?) hardware synths, the CC#s are assigned to the functions at the factory.
Suppose you want to control A, D, S, and R for envelope 1 and envelope 2 with 8 separate knobs. They are CC 81, 82, 83, 84, for env1 and 85, 86, 87, & 88 for env2. How you configure your MIDI controller to send those CCs depends on the controller. Some of them have software that you can just type the CC into a box on the computer. Some have a little screen so you can twist the knob you want to assign, and then use an encoder to pick the CC. It's good to have one with several preset slots, so you can switch between configurations.
Nice video, thank you. Pairing it with a grenache is an interesting choice but it makes sense. I also suggest a petit sirah....it can also stand up well with a bold Cabernet Sauvignon.
oh, and....not made in the same factory as Arturia products...
Nice to meet you here! Next time you are in Berlin, you are invited to the studio to share a bottle!🥂
Just my opinion which doesn’t mean squat, anyone that thinks the explorer is a disappointment isn’t doing it right. Who knew? Update 2.0 with modular, is the most complicated and accurate sound design tool I can think of. No offense.
I’m torn between the ASM Hydrasynth, Minifreak and the Argon 8…please someone help me pull the trigger
BAM! Can't do anything wrong, the question is what kind of music you make and which sounds fit in better...
imo argon8 isn't really recommendable anymore. Modal has insolvency issues, so service and support will be a big risk to take.
I have the Deluxe and it's amazing!
I deeply regret selling my Deluxe. It was the physical size of it that meant it had to go, I just don't have the room. I'd bite their hands off for a desktop module version of the deluxe (obvs, I wouldn't get the poly AT that the keyboard version gives you, but I can get that from my Push 3)
Thanks so much for your awesome information
I've been enjoying my Hydrasynth as well. I ended up getting the Deluxe because I wanted at least one bigger keyboard with full size keys for me to brush up on my technique with, and it has features that almost no dedicated midi controllers cheaper than the Deluxe itself have. It's fortunate that a seasoned synth designer of considerable skill and passion was hired directly by a keyboard manufacturer to exploit their specialty to the fullest in a comparatively affordable synth line. And thanks to Thomann; even with the frustrating import fees for Chinese products like this in the US, I still got it for over 200 dollars less than the intended MSRP of 1799...in the middle of the summer no less, not the holiday sales season.
Not a golden hammer, but the best in it's price/functionality/build quality balance.
I really enjoy your videos. Keep up the good work! I have the desktop version and am very happy with it. Glen Darcey is a brilliant designer.
I love this guy. Its like watching “ hogans heroes “ version of reviews. He needs to uniform lol.
Why would anyone use this in a studio? VSTs are for the studio, synths are for playing live. Small battery-powered synths are for playing live in fun places 😁
this one is so cool, because it perfectly does both! 👍
Hallo
Finde Deine Tests klasse, insbesondere weil sie auf der Perspektive der konkreten Nutzung basieren. Auch ist toll, dass Du jeweils die Videos mit Musik des Instruments unterlegst.
Hier wieder ein toller Test, die Hydras sind echte Ausnahmeerscheinungen. Ich konnte einen original Hydra gebraucht ergattern und empfinde ihn als Referenz. Die Engine ist beeindruckend und der Sound sitzt. Aber vor allem das Userinterface macht ihn zu einem Synth, den man viel mehr als Instrument empfindet, als viele hochgelobten Modelle.
Ich habe hier auch einen Super6 der ähnlich konsequent eine Richtung verfolgt und damit gewinnt. Auch da fand ich Deine Eindrücke sehr passend. Danke!
Ein heisser Typ zum Testen wäre der OpSix. Leider wie die zwei anderen Korgs traurig verpackt... aber die Engine FM/Sub und der Sound (aber nicht DX-like crisp) !
UI nicht so effizient wie dasjenige der Hydras, aber für FM eine satte Leistung. Nichts Vergleichbares ... Könnte Dir gefallen.
I think maybe you are doing something wrong. Hydrasynth sounds great!
Thanks so much for your awesome information. I have had my new Hydrasynth deluxe for 2 weeks now and love it. I hope all is well in Your world 🌎. Mark Bensette Aux Bois 🇨🇦.
What is your setup?? How is everything connected?? Many thanks ;-)
The most efficient techno production machine? (Ableton + Analogue Synths)
ua-cam.com/video/FE3wc6GAfGE/v-deo.html
Very nice video. Perfect to evaluate if I need a Deluxe or not. One virtual bottle of Barbaresco to you as a thankful message.
Of course I will go to a shop to test it with my hands before buying
Der Hydrasynth ist schon ein feines Gerät. Wenn ASM jetzt noch wirklich Support anbieten und keine wissentlich kaputten batches verkaufen würde...
Thanks, I think I've finally decided on my first synth.
Dankeschön! 🤖🤖🤖🚀
I demo the hydra desktop and I like the interface, arp and sound. If I didn't have a Virus TI2 I'd probably use one
Someone please tell me what headphones are those? @2:05
FYI filter 1 & env 1 can be rerouted you just have to manually change it.
I watch all quality Hydrasynth videos and they all remind me that I made the right choice.
I think the interface shares many similarities to the Ensoniq line of synthesisers, ESQ-1 for instance, which where almost menu-less. I really like the one button per section design.
I love my Desktop unit. The Desktop is built like a tank, how does the Explorer build feel?
Backside is metal, front and side all plastic. It is heavier than a Mininova or a JD-xi (both full plastic), but significantly lighter than a MiniAk. I would call it a mini-tank. Knobs and switches seem to be of very good quality. Yet, my Explorer loses its Polyphonic Aftertouch capability after being switched on continuously for two or three days. To get it back, it must be rebooted. Everything else works fine.
@@pontram Losing poly aftertouch seems like a pretty big deal. Are you sure it's not a bug or flaw in your specific unit? I would contact customer support about the issue.
@@l1fef0rm You're probably right, but my unit works flawlessly, with this one exception. Besides, I am out of warranty, since I didn't care about this for too long. In my dumb mind, I took it as a kind of personality thing, like my DM12, where the display has sometimes, but not always, a dead row...
A lot of people in the comments wanted a synth that can do it all. Such thing don't exist and don't think it will ever. For the price you can do a lot with this thing. Once again what you want to do and how capable you are is the question.
Well, you can essentially “do it all,” but you have to put your money towards something like Komplete or Omnisphere, which isn’t entirely satisfying if you’re a tactile and hardware purist.
I had a Hydrasynth on loan for a while and I did not really click with it. The sound it delivered didn’t justify the complexity of operation for me, and I kept getting nicer sounds with less effort from my other synths. I understand that some people enjoy a challenge, but for me it felt like the Hydra is getting in the way of my productivity.
This is a valid point. I love my HS Explorer, but you can certainly get lost. I find my Dreadbox Typhon and Nymphes deliver the sounds they're known for very quickly
try convincing an experienced guitar player a Fender Telecaster is just no good because it doesn't sound like a Les Paul
Thanks a lot. I am a beginner and I want to own my first synth. Considered this ASM, Yamaha reface CS, Novation MiniNova or the Roland jd xi. I think I'm gonna choose the ASM hydrasynth thanks to you and all the other rewievs, articles I have watched and read. Greetings from Düsseldorf!
Hello Josef! I think you made the right decision out of this choice! The Hydrasynth is also a very educational synth and really easy to handle. Take your time to explore it! Enjoy! And greetings to good old Düsseldorf! 🤖
@@winesynths Thank you very much for your advice, greetings and response! Habe a nice day!
Did you think about the Waldorf Blofeld too? It's versatile, has wavetable on board, a deep mod matrix, does FM and VA and inherits a distinct sound character. This beast is a perfect synth, not only for beginners. It's also programmable via a VST editor.
@@nichttuntun3364 Thanks, I will do some research...have not yet decided and bought.
@@josef2619 Tough decisions. 🤔
So many good synths, but I think the next thing I need is the osmose even if just to use as a controller.
I'm waiting on mine , but i just want to use it as a standalone synth with great presets, particually as they are acoustically designed . I notice on the Facebook page & other comments a lot of people are struggling with the Eagan Matrix , I'd personally re-think if it is worth getting just as a controller ! ! It might be a huge learning curve .
I do have the space so I picked up the Deluxe. WOW a true monster
you lucky devil
Nice review!
It is April 2024. I was banking on purchasing a Sequential Take 5. I had written Hydrasynth Explorer off, but I might change my mind. What I’m in search of is a portable synth capable of emulating my ARP Odyssey clone (as well as Moog, Oberheim & Sequential) but with patch memory capabilities (4 banks of *128 patches,* baby) and that coveted Yamaha-inspired poly touch. That this is meant to be a PPG- and Ensoniq-style wavetable synth is worth taking into consideration for the future. As attractive as Take 5 is with VCOs, 44 full-size keys and dedicated knob-per-function controllers, I would still probably be better off HS Explorer.
All it lacks architecturally is a vocoder, and I could get a vocoder module later if I chose this bugger.
Don’t believe the hype ?
Yeah. This was a hype video.
???ESL???
youre one of THE best synth presenters on Utube -
😇🤩🌞
Good stuff, thanks for the video! The Hydra is definitely one of my top considerations for my next synth. Cheers from Berlin!
Just send me the Deluxe’s Keyboard / Ribbon / MIDI functionality … ASM can keep the synth (unless I get into edgy Industrial).
Great video.
Very informative Sir. I am a "Teetotaller" so I don't drink wine. But I love synthesizers and the Explorer looks like good value. I have reservations about mini keys but these look a bit bigger than other mini keys and are probably high quality to play rather than toy like as with many others.
The keys are absolutely great. Also the poly aftertouch is a joy to play!
These are the best custom patches I have heard a creator make for the hydra. Great work!
Cheers 🔥
2x explorer or deluxe? i have space for deluxe but to transport it to the gigs not so nice.
Its a pig to get to sound right. I'm selling mine and getting a microfreak
Great video
3:39 Your videos title had me worried... I call that bait, but I agree hoping people swallow the hook, line and sinker for their own good. Although Roland, Elka, and a few other companies back in the 80's and early 90's saw the need for individual key response in all aspects of key response to create expression like a properly controlled string, the advantages of Poly AT was lost to marketing as if CH AT was a useable option instead. With CH AT now left out of expensive keyboards the truth is being exposed as sounds evolve and become more complex where CH AT just makes a mess of the individual sounds and effects in use INDIVIDUALLY per key complementing each other's separation in tonal space.
The electronic keyboard has the potential to emulate a string and go far beyond the norm, but until ASM came along they were grossly limited in expression. Not having Poly AT with velocity sensitivity in both directions is a sin in today's age of the computer so let's just hope KORG (so it's easy to use) dumps MIDI 1 to embrace NRPN and some Standard for high resolution POLY AT with Release Velocity implemented in KORG's next workstation, and a firmware update for older Kronos ET.al boards to deal with the new high-resolution standard of whatever KORG comes up with.
I'd REALLY like to see a high-end quality weighted 77/88 key high resolution Poly AT controller with better key action on par with Kawai's excellent VPCT controller modified for synth needs. I would even consider programmable (magnetic) escapement allowing for other time-based controller response features connected to natural oscillation response values. The KORG OASYS showed people WILL pay for a high-cost workstation if it does the job better... so now that the music industry is exploding with new gear AND new musicians aware of Poly AT it's time for the name brand manufactures to focus on the keyboards expression capabilities as musicians will do whatever it takes to "get there" wherever in time that may be.
BTW... the 73 key ASM Hydrasynth Deluxe works better than expected as a 73 key Poly AT MIDI controller allowing one to blend in Poly AT controlled voices that complement the voices in use on another synth. Great Hydrasynth video...
Thanks for the informative overview. I especially found the overview of the patch architecture useful.
My American takeaway: the keyboard feels cheap. The keys are wiggly. The aftertouch actually feels OK, but that’s it. It’s super easy to drive this thing into bad aliasing, sometimes even using modest settings. Not just when doing drive and FM, but even simple things like oscillator sync. Why give two Mutators per oscillator when you can’t render them properly? Do yourself a favor and use it as a controller for Vital, or another decent wavetable plugin.
Ok! Thanks for your opinion!
Hi,
I like your review.
Is that ASM Hydrasynth Explorer better than Korg WAVESTATE?
Can you make comparison of them which is better?
Thanks for your suggestion! The Wavestate doesn't really appeal to me. Back in the days, I already did not really like the Wavestation. But I maybe I should try one as they have the new models out now.
this is the moust informative hydrasynth video out there
Whats the song in the background starting at 15:21 ? Banger
It‘s a demo my assistant Xepeia made with the Hydra. It is on the list of tracks that have to be finished. Check here and on Bandcamp.
Appreciate the effort put in this insightful review.
I just bought a Hydrasynth deluxe, but it hasn't arrived yet.
I'm starting to fear that it may be over complicated for my novice understanding of synth parameters and settings, lol.
Perfect start! Enjoy it! 🍀
Been trying to justify a fancy komplet kontrol s-series, but why would I pay that for a midi controller when I can get this for less.
Looks better built too.
and it‘s definitely a great synth!
@@winesynths reminds me of my isla s2400 with its tank like build quality. Both clearly built with passion & the enthusiasm of the creators.
nice vid - I have the HS 49 and it's very fun to use
Give me a plug-in verson
Super Video!
all the best!
I don't understand the title. "Don't believe the hype" yet the whole video is you talking about how good it is lol
Clickbait! Otherwise UA-cam will not show it to you! 😁
@@winesynths Pretty sure it would have because I was specifically looking for hydrasynth videos. but who needs trust between an audience and creator?
Me as a creator can tell you that this is a remarkable synth. Specially for hardware beginners! I just bought an explorer for my sons progressive rock-bands live shows and my assistant got the desktop for his techno prods. We all really like it! 🍀
corbieres + explorer ......; de belles valeurs .
bonjour j ai question concernant ce synthé ....est ce que je peux l utiliser comme clavier comme par exemple mon clavier keylab 61 d arturia et analog 5 ect donc exclusivement par usb daw?
Oui. Absolument!
@@winesynths deja merci de me repondre ils sont de plus en plus rares ceux qui ont cette attitude ^^ donc si je branche l hydrasynth je pourrais utiliser ses banques sons qui lui sont dédiés par exemple 2 ou 3 pistes sur abbleton exclusivement pour l hydrasynth ......donc il possede sa propre bilbliotheque ?
Danke. Aber weshalb so viele Cuts?
Ancient Chinese secret
While living in Copenhagen currently and being in my home made studio I miss two things after seing this video. 1. Being in Germany and 2. Having the ASM Explorer. Finding a scoop on Kleinanzeigen and then just drive down to one or two of the beautiful places in Germany would just be cherry on the top!
What are you waiting for? 🤖
The right moment @@winesynths
I only got a Hydra for its PolyAT. It has some other perks... but overal I have to agree the sound is unappealing, like I'm playing 2009 synth VSTs. I've been squeezing it for fat sounds and I've had some minor successes, but only due to the dual soundengine capabilities (since my Hydra is a Deluxe)
I found without loads of fx or cranking the drive up it sat weird in a mix. Everything else is amazing but i sold it
you did it wrong
Yea it doesn’t quite do it
it's not a good synth for beginners...if you want a starter synth that's all sweet spots, easy to dial in, try the minifreak.
the Hydra is a blank canvass on which you can make really good or really bad sounds and lets you decide for yourself what that means but it doesn't "do it" for you, you have to do it yourself. *not for the inexperienced
@hal7112 or like me he has loads of gear already that sonically cover the grounds we need and we nabbed a hydra for fun :)
I'm getting a Hydra (for free) one of these days, but why does EVERYONE on YT try to sound like Vangelis with it? Show me Front242, DAF, or, if you dare, Skinny Puppy!
We are just switching from Vangelis to Jarre since the Behringer Solina came out! 🤖
The Vangelis CS Sound is one of the first presets! Could be a reason! 😉
@@winesynths Haha! Ok. Jarre would be a change. But seriously, can the Hydra make heavy bass-sounds?
@@80Jay71 Bass is no problem. It‘s very versatile and has a lot of tweakeable parameters and fx. And it‘s easy to use. Give it a try!
@@winesynths Try to stop me!
The first tune I make with the machine and post on my channel will be named "Hydra". Keep an eye out if you're not too deep into Vangelis and Jarre. ;)
nice bottle of wine there! 😉
cheers!
😃 I have some of those candlestick holders!!!
as classic as a real OB from the 70ies! 👍
@@winesynths i'd happily trade mine for anything by Oberheim 🤣
Im englischen gibt es zwei Aussprachen für das TH
Einmal bei z.b "thing"
Das wird im deutschen aber nicht "sing" ausgesprochen sondern eher "fing" (mit vorgeschobener Zunge)
Und dann gibt es noch z.b "that"
das im deutschen aber nicht "set" ausgesprochen wird sondern eher "wet" ( mit vorgeschobener Zunge)
Guck auf jeden Fall my next Video! I sink you will like it very Matsch, Mr. German Oberlehrer! 😛🍀😘🇩🇪
@@winesynths War nicht böse gemeint 😬🤷🏻♂️😃
ua-cam.com/video/0MUsVcYhERY/v-deo.html
@@OMPTraxxs Sorry! Bin mittlerweile etwas genervt, weil echt nur „Deutsche“ darüber meckern! 🙄😁
Dabei hatte ich so einen tollen Kurs gebucht: ua-cam.com/video/Hmy-N4AFNDM/v-deo.html
@@winesynths you don't need any English courses, I perfectly understood everything you said and your work and this video were fantastic!
@@vintagesynthesizers Thanks so much! Where are you from? 🍀
jo... is ne ∂ope Kiste fuer das Geld¡
haha diggi danke für das video. ist top content!
Danke! 🤖
My next buy for sure!
Very thorough and well thought out review. Thanks! ✌️❤️
Hey Tiger! Welcome to my channel! I am a frequent viewer of your videos too! 🌻🐯🍀
@@winesynths Thank you so much for the support!
I have now spent 30min trying to get the Hydra connected. The original powersupply was apparantly lost, so I used one of my multi-adapters. Making sure of the polarity I switched it on. Company logo animated and then "Hydrasynth" slowly blinking until steady. --- No sound ---- Tried the same cable with a volca and almost blew my monitors, so no cable-problems. Can it be so that the Hydra demands 1000mA to make a sound? My multi-supply only delivered 12V 500mA. Since it's not my synth yet, I decided to disconnect it and ask someone who knows things.
500 mA might be not enough. I would recommend to take a look at the technical specs in the manual first!
@@winesynths No manual - No salvation...
www.ashunsoundmachines.com/downloads
@@winesynths Thank you!
thanks again! I've got it working, and of course I try to ignore my inner Vangelis. Have just started to experiment making my own EBM bass sounds. (It will be a long night!)
Great review keep it up❤
I never cared for the/any Hydrasynth, oops. I obviously missed out. Thanks!
Edit: Your Thomann-Link ends up at the Behringer Vocoder VC340.
Dankeschön! Now everything works fine! 🙏🏼🤖📡
Ich habe mir den ersten Hydrasynth gleich zu Beginn zugelegt und er ist ein Kernstück meiner Musik (Berliner Schule und Electro). Einsame Spitze, das Gerät ! Toller Kanal, weiter so, Gruß aus Spandau
Schöne Grüße zurück! Je mehr neue Synths wir hier unter die Lupe nehmen, desto besser finden wir den Hydrasynth als Gesamtpaket! Irgendwann kaufe ich auch einen. Weiß nur noch nicht, welchen! 🍀
@@winesynths Ich würde auf jeden Fall einen mit Ribbon kaufen, das hat so viel Mehrwert.
16:30 😍
Great work!
Dankeschön! 🤩
Love the intro Basic Channel vibe.
Will there be a Argon 8 Review?
Not immediately, sorry!
@@winesynths bought it anyway was looking your nice Video with Hydra and Modwave. Modwave ist powerfull but No sweet Spot monster. Hydra is to modular If you know what i mean. Hope the Argon will fit Well as my First Hardware Synth
i really like the performance features of the all the hydras. i have already mentioned that i want to wait for the next gen of digitals because i dont really like how it sounds, but you do make a good argument for getting the explorer as a controller. how does this keybed compare to the UNO pro? that keybed looks nice too.
9min11sec of the video freaked me out. my interface is a 1st gen 2i4 and i have a lexicon mx400 haha. it is funny when you see your own gear in a video. FWIW, i am going to replace the 2i4 with a motu M4. i really dont like the ring LEDs. i watch the meters on my mixer
Oettinger? Bist du es?
Ich fürchte nicht! 🍀
Welcher? Der:
ua-cam.com/video/TLQXuX_H9l8/v-deo.html
Hat mich ansatzweise auch daran erinnert, wenn man es aber hintereinander anhört merkt man dass es hier wirklich nur kleine Abweichungen sind 😉
@@OMPTraxxs ja, den meinte ich. Aber viele native speaker lieben den deutschen Akzent. In sofern kultig. Fachlich aber ok! Ich hab sowas noch nicht fertig gebracht. Gibt die Sprachimitatoren ( leik mi🤣) und die Leute, welche an der Schrift " hängen" und die Buchstaben deutsch denken und sprechen.
Remembers me of some Grobschnitt live event. The spoke the same tongue.
Long gone are the days when simple, beautiful and impactful synths and drum computers were produced
God forbid we encourage innovation.
try all... try black keys... suck
???
Thanks so much for your awesome information
I don't use mine at the moment because I have so many damn new synths, but I wouldn't be without it. It has too much ability. I have to catch up to it on my end and I'm glad to know it's waiting for me when I get serious.
I am waiting for your dawless Hydra House Jam!
Why do neither the Hydrasynth Explorer or the Argon 8, respond to CC2 (Breath)? Is it some sort of prejudice against wind players? The fact that the designer of the EWI4000s was involved in the design of this one just leaves me asking WTF?
I was really disappointed to find that the Explorer lacks the CV In of the bigger model too. I'd have been happier if they'd left off CV Out, and kept CV In.
Yes, I could work around it, in some half assed way, but why would I spend my money to buy something where the designer didn't care to provide the most basic things I need from it?
I genuinely was about to buy one or the other, today, but having looked into what they left out, I'm not buying either.
That‘s a good question! To be honest I totally missed this detail. Being a Saxophone and flute player myself, I abandoned the search for electronic wind instruments a long time ago. My last one was a Casio! 😁 What can you recommend?
@@winesynths That's another good question :) Maybe the DSI Mopho, which I haven't tried to play in a while but it does have some potential - and a Mod matrix that's quite happy to accept CC2. It means either fiddling with a software editor, to make sounds, or setting up a fairly elaborate MIDI controller.
I wouldn't rule out a Yamaha TX7/DX7 or TX802, but again, very fiddly to edit. I've had an on/off relationship with a DynaSample XpressO for a while. It's essentially just a ROMpler, that's been tweaked as a wind instrument.
The XpressO can sound good, for some of its sounds, but holding long notes shows it's just repeating a sample, over and over, with an ugly join. The user interface makes me want to scream, and yearn for the relative simplicity and user friendliness of the Yamaha FM synth, and it's buggy as a stained mattress in a dodgy youth hostel.
I'd far rather be playing one of my flutes, clarinets or saxes, or brass implements, but I have neighbours. Even a penny whistle beats any synth I've yet played with a wind controller, but every now and then I try again.
@@winesynths As a controller, the Yamaha WX5 is the best, IMHO. Some people prefer the WX7, but the WX5 is a little bit wider, between the fingers, which makes it more comfortable for me, and it has a couple of useful but not essential extras - a couple of not quite palm keys, that have their own rules, and a partly configurable thumb wheel.
I also own a Roland AE-10, which I try to like, and occasionally do, but it annoys me that Roland decided the pitch bend from the reed should only go down, never up, and the keys are really pretty poor, clicky "tactile" buttons. The Casio DH-100 feels nicer to play.
It's a shame the Casio's lack a lip / bite control, but none of the others really get that right anyway. The WX5/WX7 are closest - the response is a bit laggy, and low resolution, but it sort of works.
The EWI4000s bite control is just useless, as far as I'm concerned. It auto centres, so all you can do is get some sort of vibrato by chewing on it. The octave rollers are pretty awful too. Having to move your left thumb around so much makes for really uncomfortable fingering, and I can rarely find the octave I want without a glitch.
@@TooSlowTube Allright! So I will continue to improve my keyboard skills! 😁
I would just be happy with a good midi controller without any internal sounds.
Great review & insights! My only question....what is the wine?
So you did not watch till the end? 😉 All the best! 🍷
Great interface and feature set; uninspiring sound, IMO.
"Chinese takeaway"? That may have been intended as solely a clickbait or pun, but it sounded racist and uninformed and put me off from the video and channel - especially given the ASM recognised quality, its Hong Kong origin (which makes the Chinese pun quite problematic) and the people involved in the synth creation, which include Glen Darcey, who worked for Akai and Arturia and was involved in the creation of highly quality stuff. No offence intended.
Everybody loves chinese takeaways all around the world! They are delicious nourishing and affordable! Don‘t mix up loving play with stereotypes and racism! Glen Darcy left a nice comment here as well. So you are really the first to feel offended after 16000 views! Come on! Are you even Chinese or asian in any way? 🙄
@@winesynths Sympathetic with Asmuk, here. Feels like cheap clickbait. I'm sure there are a few "lovingly playful" things people say about Germans that you (and I, a non-German) find annoying.
Racist?? Dude, grow up 😂
People need to stop getting offended on other people's behalf
I will not buy it because it's Chinese 😮
The Hydrasynth is the most disappointing sounding synth of the modern era per the hype. Sure it has a deep feature set for its cost, but its raw tone is bland and unvarying. Every sound, even complex, has a shared overtone. Before trying one in person, I bought the hype and preordered a Deluxe right after the announcement... I had to force myself to use it everyday for a month only to ultimately follow what my ears told me on day 1. It still shocks me how much praise they get. Of course tastes vary widely in sound and music, this is just my 2 cents... ~CS80, Matrix 12, OBX, JP4/6/MKS80, Voyetra 8, Chroma, Prophet 5 Rev 2 & VS, A6, The River, XTk, Q, 3rd Wave owner.
The River?
@@devondetroit2529 Baloran The River
I also had a Hydrasynth Explorer for a month. I wanted to love it, and it made an excellent controller. However, I couldn't gel with it, and the oscillator sync produced extreme aliasing. I found that the MicroMonsta 2 and Nova synths have sweet spots and character the Hydra lacks. The Hydra sounds like it's trying way too hard to sound like everything.
Exactly. I purchased the desktop version. It’s ok but too me every waveform sounds similar. Returned it after a few weeks.
@@SacSynths_Jack_Z Wow i never knew this synth even existed
Rad Sir!
I've heard of owners having faulty encoders. Anyone know anything about that? Danke!
Was genau meinst du mit "fehlerhafte Encoder"?
Hör ich zum ersten mal.
@@MrMissingReelHi, by that, I mean encoders that stop working properly, making the instrument hard or impossible to use. Waldorf is (or at least was) notorious for this. My Blofeld and my Microwave xt had this problem. The Blofeld got sent back to the factory for "repairs", and came back damaged and with the encoders in even worse condition. It was my favourite synth, so I am very wary these days, when checking out new gear...
@@MoogKorgfan
Well....I didn't run into encoder problems on the Hydrasynth...at least not yet.
@@MrMissingReel That's good, enjoy your instrument. I want one too, now!
Macros! For tweaking different page parameters at the same time...
Macros are for accountants using Excel! Just kidding! 🤖🤓