I dream of a day where Roland and Yamaha cooperate on a synth: Roland for the layout and workflow organisation, and Yamaha for the rest....with sampling and all the bells and whistles....
Thank you so much for this detailed review! I've been trying to decide between the Roland 0 and the Modx+, and you've given me some great insights. Your point at 13:05 was a game changer for me. It seems like Roland knows how to make sounds that are ready to mix, which is so important. I mean, have you ever tried mixing a real Steinway? It's a nightmare! And while Yamaha keyboards sound super realistic, they can be a real pain to mix properly. I had the same problem with my old Juno DS. I was really disappointed with the piano quality until I heard it in a song that was recorded live alongside older recordings with a MIDI controller and a high-quality piano VST. It was eye opening, it sounded better with the bare roland sounds So, based on your review, I'm leaning more towards the Roland now. I love the controllers, sliders, faders, and pads, and the user interface is great. Sampling and triggering sounds from the pads live are also really appealing to me. The only downsides for me are the size (it's a bit too large), and the sound quality of the acoustic instruments could be better. I really wish they would get rid of the side joystick. As for the Modx, I love the sound quality of the acoustic instruments and the user expansion memory. The compactness is also a plus, and the Scenes and SSS implementation are perfect for my usage. However, the user interface and sampling leave something to be desired. The controllers could also be better, and the keybed is not ideal for me. It feels like they're using plastic-bridge keys, like in toy pianos. Thanks again for your amazing review! It's really helped me make a decision. This is my list so far: *Roland-0: * +++ Controllers, Sliders, faders, Pads +++User Interface ++Sampling ++ Trigger sounds from the pads live +Keybed -Sound Quality of acoustic instruments - - Stupidly large (They should get rid of the side joystick) *Modx: * +++Sound Quality of acoustic instruments ++User Expansion memory ++ Compactness (The 76 key is as large as the Roland 61 key) -User interface -Sampling -Controllers - - - Keybed (This is stupid how they are using this plastic-bridge keys like in toy pianos)
Hi there. Thank you for watching. I am so glad it makes a difference to other people - that was the intension! I hope it works for you!!! Thank you for your comment!!!
Obviously you don't know/heard much of those Yamaha samples😉 Read my answer above. Second: if I want to play piano, I sit on my ePiano. This ancient piece has also an outrageous pipe-organ-sound😉 If I use a "synthesizer" I'm more interested in electronic sounds. As far as I heard, Roland is a galaxy better at those. At least they invented "supersaw". And for sure! Not Yamaha. Because Yamaha is "crying" endless. No power at low frequencies... even worsened by presets in element-amplitude. Ever visited this menue? High frequencies destroy any sound. Filtering destroys volume. Only with an EQ and many, very strange adjustments of this, you get a balanced sound with needed volume . As far as I heard, the Roland sounds much more powerfull, has low frequencies. I am going to check the Yamaha-spectrum in the following weeks with different analysers. I wonder, why noone notices this disturbing thing at Yamaha. I will prove it by graphics. The sequencer of Roland seems to be a galaxy better. Yamaha: blind-flight. If I could start at zero, I also would buy a Roland! But I have this MODX and won't buy a workstation again. And you are right; the keys have plastic-nipples at the MODX. Not the Montage.
Thank you sir for your helpful video , and I read all those comments, surprise me nobody is talking about korg nautilus, it’s almost in the same range price Cause I urn one and I was so curious about fandom and Modx
Thank you for your comment. Well, that is true. I have a good 'relation' with Korg in general (I currently owe two models but both of those were made 20 years ago). When the krome just came out I used to owe Yamaha MX 49 and I purchased the brand new krome everyone was raving about at the time. I returned Krome within two weeks as it was nothing in comparison to the cheaper lower grade Yamaha MX49 and ever since I have partially lost my interest in newer models. So, how is it?
Are you sure that Nautilus is in the same price league? I understand i that it is like same when it does not come out more of 10% of the price range. Now we can see that Nautilus is pricer ~ +30% comparing to YModx 😊
The expansion packs are phenomenal on the Fantom O. Jupiter 8, Juno 106, JX8-P, and SH101. Probably the best thing about the Fantom O is the expansion packs.
Thank you - absolutely agree. This is something I was truly surprised with after switching to Roland - so easy and effortless... Thank you for watching!
You can make custom arpeggios in the step lfo, and u can continue/layer notes in the trec and step record and maybe piano roll modes, which even of u recorded in real time can switch into those modes
Thank you for your comment. I agree with you but some of the things was easier on MODX and some are better on Fantom 0 - I guess it all depends on how the keyboard is used and what is the priority for each user. Thank you for watching!
thank you so much for the details , i have a yamaha MODX6 , i want to sell my MODX6, swap it with the Yamaha Motif XS6 , i want to good piano sounds good keybed , production grade sound quality? what are your thoughts about it ? you suggestion will help me for the purchasing decision of Yamaha MOTIF XS6
Thank you for watching the video and for your question. The Motif XS was a good one but the MODX sounds better in terms of sound 'fullness' and quality. But, saying that - if I had to choose to work with MODX or MOTIF with no computer MOTIF would be a winner for me because of the sequencer. I would also suggest to check the MOTIF XF as this was the last MOTIF before MONTAGE era and it had more sampling memory and some other extras. Thanks
I also wished a few things for this keyboard including: 1. Make it USB Class Compliant. This might be due to the Roland OS (and how it's implemented), but I really wished it had that, it would solve at least half of the problems it currently has (the weak pianos that like you I dislike). 2. More sample memory. If you don't like a sound, or want to add a particular sound you like from your computer, another keyboard etc. sample it and add those samples to the keyboard. The Yamaha is very good at that and at least allows you to do that, but the Roland is very limited in that aspect. Things I like about this keyboard: 1. The plethora of control options. You have 8 faders, knobs, buttons (between the knobs and faders), and 16 pads. Yamaha were honestly a bit stingy in giving control options. Sure, 4 faders is better than 0 faders, but I mean, Roland did why can't Yamaha do it? 2. Integration with Mainstage/Logic and Ableton. Pretty neat combo with your computer, and since you can control multiple MIDI zones, you could potentially control 32 MIDI zones, 16 internal and 16 external, provided there's enough horsepower for all of them. 3. The Zenology VST. Create a sound there, copy it to the keyboard, and back. I really liked the keyboard, but since I like running light (having one keyboard doing everything) I wish I could use my phone (iPhone) to cover those weak sound categories but alas, Roland will not change it. Oh well, let's see what Yamaha has in store for NAMM '23.
Thank you for your comment. I was surprised to learn that Fantom 06 was not class compliant since MODX was. I have forgotten to mention that. Since I do not do any pro work I have not come across the issues with memory yet but looking at the paper I am sure it is a valid point. I guess, everything is subjective and depends on the type of work, type of required sounds, polyphony etc. No clear winner for now.
Thanks for the video. A few more points on the Fantom 0 series: - Very light weight, especially the 06. Fantastic if you're going to be mobile. I think this is one if its strongest points - it's a powerful, versatile instrument that you can take places, but it's not as fully featured as a heavyweight studio device. - The audio interface is excellent quality. - There are quite a few features that you can enter quickly simply by holding down Shift and tapping another button/control. - Although the screen is hi-res, it's something that people with poorer eyesight may struggle with. Something to consider if you're an older person. - The pattern based sequencer is decent once you get used to it. If you are accustomed to using a linear sequencer, you may find it quite limiting. - No way to "move" a pattern from one slot to another. You have to copy it to a new slot then delete the original. This can be a bit awkward if you're trying to reorganize your patterns. - You can only record 8 patterns per track/instrument. Adequate for basic compositions but it's a limit you can run into easily for more complex songs. - You can only record 64 bars in a pattern. Again, adequate for most material but not if you want to do long recordings. - When recording, the filter and resonance knobs don't record the CC events, by default. You have to assign these functions to a different knob for them to be recorded. Or you can use the piano roll afterwards to insert those CC events. - There are various sequencer features that are absent like "punch in/out" or "ripple edit". - Some of the Tones can cut out when played staccato style, possibly polyphony limits. - No aftertouch.
You can work around the 8 pattern limit if you sample your current mix (a group of patterns or a full song) and store in the pad memory, then use that in another scene where you add more tracks & patterns.
Thank you for your comment - since I only do music for pleasure and not for business I have not managed to run into those troubles yet - it was very interesting to find out about some of those!!! Thank you!!!!
The Fantom 0 pianos are pretty bad, although I use the Fantom 7 and also the V-Piano, which I think sounds better than the Yamaha pianos. Unfortunately, Roland made a big mistake when they released the SuperNatural Piano 1 and 2 expansions. The original SuperNatural Piano contained a lot of adjustment options, in Fantom you can only add the stereo effect. I had a Roland FA7 and the SuperNatural piano was outstanding, much better than the Yamaha pianos. It had string resonance, and the sound was completely parameterizable. For example, when the piano is half open or closed. I don't understand why they removed all the functions from the SuperNatural sounds. It became a pure 90s sound because of it. I do not like. Fortunately, V-Piano is good. Arpeggios are pathetic, I never cared about 10,000 arpeggios in MODX. I had it too, but the problem is that I can't make my own arpeggio. I bought Fantom because I'm interested in synthesizer sounds. They are the best, especially when compared to other manufacturers. Especially if all 4 Model Expansions are included. I ran into the limitations of Polyphony, but many people forget that MODX is only AWM2 and includes FM-X. The Roland Fantom uses Zen-Core VA filters in many cases, which can understandably reduce polyphony, but this is the case with all Virtual Analogs. On the other hand, I did not encounter any polyphony problems with PCM sounds. AWM2 is PCM sounds if you look at it. Why are Yamaha acoustic sounds better? Because Waveform is all stereo. Everything is mono to Fantom and panned to 4 Partials. Unfortunately, there are no Waveforms in it, only the sounds of the old XV-5080 sound module and a couple of old Fantoms from 2001. Yamaha adds the AWM2 new Waveform set to every new synthesizer, Roland does not.
Thank you for your great comment and thank you for taking time to explain the differences with Fantom. I was wandering about the Fantom and all the related aspects - like sampling, sound engines, memory, sound card etc. You have answered a lot of those questions - thank you. I think I have found a way of making my Fantom 06 perfect and I hope to make a video about it soon. Stay tuned. Thank you for watching.
Thank you for your video. It was very clarifying. I have one question, if you can answer me, please: on the modx there is a fader to usb level (daw level), next to the master volume fader. Furthermore, there is a volume knob for the Analog inputs from the back panel. This is amazing for playing live with two keyboards and virtual instruments from a laptop. That let all de control of volume in your hands. So, here is the question: how is this scenario on the Fantom 0? Thank you!
Thank you for your question. The Fantom 0 series comes with stereo Line in and a separate Mic input with the volume control for the Mic. Within the software mixer the Audio input can be selected to either Line or Mic and the input can be turned ON and OFF there too. The USB audio can be easily routed to the main output with software volume control but can also routed to output 3-4 if required. I hope this helps but please let me know if you need more information on this. Thanks for watching!
@@amateurmusicstudio Thank you so much for your answer, it brought very good information. But my question is: is it simple to control the volume of the usb and analog inputs on the fly, in live situations, on Fantom-0, like it is on the modx?
@@elizeujunior Oh, sorry. No, it is not as easy as on the MODX. It is possible but I do not do live gigs so would not know that. I hope it helps but please let me know if you have any other questions
@@amateurmusicstudio Being able to quickly control the input levels is crucial in live situations. That's why this answer was so significant in influencing my purchasing decision. Thank you so much for your time!
Hey! HNY! It would be very interesting to hear your comments how's easy/ complex creating that techno song that you recreated on Yamaha: the same as some guy did first on Fantom 😊
Hi there and thank you for your comment. It is a great idea but I have sold my MODX a while ago in favour of Fantom 06 from Roland. Copying was not difficult for me since that is what I used to do for half of my life (although that part of my life was a long time ago) :-) I was not trying to create a masterpiece since I owed MODX for a few days at that moment so did not know much about it. Also, everything including making and uploading the video took me three hours. I guess, I may do a video demonstrating how I do stuff like that if it is of any interest to the public. Thank you for watching!
Hlo sir can u please help me 🙏 When i play sitar or violine sound and change to piano the sound is just shake it why if u know sir please tell me please
Good info and pertinent for many people trying that keyboard range. I liked the layout of the Fantom 06 but sounds weren’t as good as modx, and the extra space up top for an iPad etc is nice on modx. I wish they made a modx or a nautilus with the Nord electro keybed haha.
Thank you for your comment. I have to say that MODX appears to sound 'fuller' and 'richer'... but as I keep using Fantom 06 I am getting surprised more and more: a lot of presets on MODX are made with a lot of sounds. If I use about the same number of sounds the Fantom 06 sounds as good or even better but only for synths. If you like to play pianos, strings, guitars etc- between the two MODX is the answer. Thank you for watching!
@@amateurmusicstudioI have ended up with the Fantom 08 now because it is very light for a full 88 and I like the built in interface. It’s a really good board for the price. I got it like 800 off so I’m happy ha.
Thank you for your question and for the comment. Funny enough but I received my MPC Live on the day you asked the question. It is my first MPC and I am currently familiarising myself with the workflow. I have chosen Fantom 06 over MODX since MODX was not working for me - I did not enjoy the workflow and complex menus but liked the sound. Fantom won since it sounds ok but the workflow for me is a pure joy!!! Thanks for watching.
I don't understand, what you are doing with those machines. I am a player. After one year with the MODX I can say that it can everything, but nothing really well. Workflow is simply not existing. I also found many, many faults. But I am worldwide the only one who is neutrally looking at those machines. Fact is, that one cannot judge them after some days or months. And seemingly noone notices those faults, insufficiencies or senseless searching in senseless numbers of sensless arpeggios. Don't praise those libraries of 10.000 or 2.000 of something! My livetime is not long enough to search for fitting arpeggios for every song I play. In the meanwhile I craft everything myself; especially drum tracks. And the sidechain compressing is not as fine as you mentioned. Depending on the sound and hardness it makes snapping-sounds. For ME one thing would be clear: 400€ more for this ridiculous "+" of the newest MODX... NO! Dispite my extensive critics the MODX was an acceptable compromise. And I would never again buy a workstation again. Simply because noone talks about faults. And because at least Yamaha does nothing to communicate and fix those things.
Is worth buying workstation instead of cheaper midi keyboard alternative when having portable daw gear already? Also you can see quite competative MPC key prices, which is a combo of MPC live and keybord 😊
The old Fantom X has very good pianos. And it’ll always be true about old synths having a much better sound engine then the new keyboards. Even tho people may say the newer the keyboard, the more it will have or sound better; but negative As time passes, these new keyboards tend to lose good sound quality
Totally agree - I have recently done a review of Korg Karma (2001) and Korg iS50 (1999) - and that was the conclusion I have made too... Thank you for your comment!
I have both the Montage & Fantom with 88 keys & they are completely different beasts with each having their own pros & cons. Overall however, I prefer my Kronos over them.
Thank you for your really interesting comment. I was considering Kronos when it came out. That is really interesting... I may give it a go one day.... Thank you for watching!!!
Hi there. Thank you for your question. In short - it can be done. The patter would have to be recorded to PAD as a sample (audio). Syncing it could be an issue since it would be audio only without any relation to what is currently paying and the current tempo. I hope it answers your question but please let me know if you need more info. Thanks for watching!
Hi dear, thank you very much....this is a good probable solution....i purchased fantom 06 and started creating scenes. I use scene remain...i would need one more help from you....should i set up the roland ev5 pedal to expression or volume....i only need to lower and increase the volume of scenes. There are 2 pedal settings one system and one in scene edit. Please guide me on this also. Many thanks in advance...
The Roland piano sounds are known to be bad, maybe except for the RD 800 and comparable RD's if you like that Elton John sound. Ironically it's most memorable piano sound engine is one where only the attack is sample-based and the decay is synthetic. Yamaha piano sounds are superior to most brands so I got a CP73 to compliment my set up. The only thing Yamaha lacks is a softer, dampened sound (Yamaha concert pianos are very bright and they tend to sample their own pianos) for more intimate play, but I like that clarity: it sits well in a mix and is easily dampened though audio processing like EQ-ing or reverberation. The first thing I do with Roland piano sounds is crank up the treble to compensate for their swampy, undefined sound: too much body dominates the frequencies and clutters them, and not enough attack makes my ears scan for defenition.
Thank you for your question. I have not noticed any major differences between MODX and Fantom 06 (although there are some) but at the same time I am not a pro pianist and do not play all that much. Reading comments in other comparison videos there were a few where people reported some differences with preferences towards MODX. I hope this helps. Thanks for watching.
@@pushthebutton4602 Fantom is a clear winner for me but it depends on how you use it. MODX would probably be better for live performances but I do recording and MODX is a mess regarding this :-)
Coming from organs I am a single player; hobby. I see you keyboarders playing (live) only one voice per machine in a large rack of many, and not changing anything. If you do so, you can think about live playing😉 For single performance the MODX is a real "task". No chance against an arranger. So it seems, I am pretty the only one, who wonders, why there are so many bottons. Surely NOT to press them live. I call it a "workaround-station". Pressing a button (ms, arp, scene) often causes disturbing noises, studdering... don't know fitting english words. Not like arrangers, some arps (gate) don't synchronize; they randomly start in their sequence. Let's say the sequence is 1 2 3 4, it can be it starts 3 4 1 2. Or latencies; if you don't press the key in the right millisecond, the arp is not synchron and that makes "scratching" noise. The same problem with my compressor-sidechain songs. Because of enormous latencies I will have to play the key significatly earlier or the ducking is asynchron. My favorite workaround for the scene-change-problem is also my favorite feature: the sequencer. By the chaining-feature one can realize a clean scene-change. As I said... "workaround-station" 😉
Your video really helped me further! Question: you do EDM? What do you think of the sounds the Fantom has to offer??? I don't need a piano! I really want !!! a machine that offers fat EDM sounds!!! How does it look there? I've had a MODX for 2 years and now I think I've mastered it. Can do a lot, but can't do anything right. Still, I'll keep it. But it doesn't play well, and I'm a Player. For me, playback is “fake” music. Then I don't need any keys, just the DAW. I hope the Fantom does a lot more. Those pads smile at me. Can one play it like a keyboard? The things about this sequencer I saw... is it really that fine, easy, mighty? First of all you can see, what you are doing. NOT with the MODX! The first thing I noticed during my research now: there are many, long and good explanation videos from Roland!!! From Yamaha there is only rubbish and documents from a crazy quantum physicist. I'm not a profi. The MODX is my first workstation. I need instructions that everyone can understand; no physics degree. And Roland is clearly in a different league! That's also worth mentioning! Perhaps not for you; but for all beginners. Because 2 years to learn where to find, how to use and make an arrangement with the MODX is hell! I still need hours, days and weeks to workout a song. After that, I need one week vacancies and have no more fun playing. "Fun", is something I don't really have with the MODX. Thanks again for your video. Answered many questions for me.
Wow - thank you for your comment. So, just in case if you have not seen this in other videos - I have been Yamaha user for over 20 years and sold my MODX since it was far too different with a very steep learning curve. Also, the sounds in MODX were difficult to work with - each sound is good on its own but mixing a few elements together presented interesting challenges that were more obvious than in previous models I have used. Fantom 06 is a complete different story - easy to understand, perfect workflow (for me), and the sounds - I would suggest these are proper EDM sounds... BUT - here is the twist - based on what you have mentioned - please check out MPCs family - these are great sound engines/samplers/workstations - everything really... It truth - I have these two (the MPC and Fantom 06) and wanted to sell one of those to make more use out of one but despite them being very similar in a lot of ways - Fantom has sounds and MPC - ease of use and sampling and in my case - battery with speaker (MPC Live 2). So, check Fantom and MPC out... Any questions - let me know. Thank you for watching!
@@amateurmusicstudio Okay, thank you. We know each other from your MODX times ;) MPC ... didn't I mention, that I am a player!? ;) I saw it on your channel and therefore watched other videos. Impressive! Very impressive!!! But I am a hobby player; I don't plan to build up a studio. 1000€ here, 2000€ there. I don't have the money for such hyper-action. I'm pretty satisfyied with, what I'm getting out of my simple MODX8 in the meantime. More likely, that I invest in software for such puposes like "sound design". I don't really get, what you mean by "sampling". Record or copy a sound into? I never do so. I fumble on the sample-sounds myself. With humble success to reach the original. But "copy and paste" ... "fake music" for me;) By the way. I saw the instructional video about the Roland sequencer. You CAN manipulate single notes, shift, shorten etc.. Perhaps you meant the "gate time" at arps (MODX). I also sometimes use this to adjust here and there. But I can also sequence them the way I like it. Because I'm lucky to master staccato/legato in most complicated, mixed ways (learnt organ), I use to do such effects by my own play. You are absolutely right!!! From the beginning, and because of the limits (parts etc.) I dealt with "elements". And quickly noticed, that "sound layering" is something I don't understand the sense. Doesn't result in a "common"/single sound. Some presets sound this way. But gernerally they use this to hide their bad sampling or to create fullness by panning stereo. Many times I even don't understand what they did. 5 activated Elements, only 2 playing? I'm simple minded ... trust my ears ... chicimicki I don't need. Also: they created a piano with 5 parts ... harebrained. My opinion. To eyplain your experience with layering, I would suggest "hardware" as the reason. Audio Out is also something like meat grinder. And all sounds have way to much high frequencies. What I heard from the Fantom, it seems to sound "soft" ... and powerfull at low frequencies. But you never know, what the players adjusted. Unfortunately the next dealer is a bit far away from me. Perhaps I should make the way. For now thanks for your nice hints!
Thank you for your comment. I honestly enjoy every moment with it and if I have to sell any keyboards I owe - this would be the last one to go. Thanks for watching!!!
a mix of both would be good. I like the step sequencer in the Roland fantom, especially for drums. and the clear good powerful sound and the simple operation. but the factory sounds are not nice.. they are bad, except for the drums. the yamaha modx has very nice sounds and also more possibilities for sound generation for trance music thanks to filters, which the roland lacks... but the yamaha modx lacks the step sequencer (even the korg nautilus has an internal software step sequencer).. and the yamaha modx sounds weak in the drums.. no power.. weaker converters than the roland?.. i don't know :-)
Thank you for watching and for your comments. I agree that the combo of two would be a good idea but... I think I have found my favourite gear that does it all. Keep checking my channel for the latest videos and I will make a few videos about what it is and why I love it more than anything else I have ever had!!!
If I had a MODX, I don’t think I wouldn’t even entertain swapping it for a Fantom 0. Not to say one is better than the other but for the most part they are comparable with the exception of how quickly the Fantom uses up polyphony and it has pads. The Fantom has a marginally better sequencer but don’t care for sequencers on either. Fantom 0 also integrates better with some DAWs like Ableton Live. The Fantom 0 seems more modern than the MODX but it isn’t a larger leap.
Thank you for watching the video and for your comment. I have to admit that I miss Yamaha but only for sounds of piano, guitars and for side chain compression.... that is about it. There are a lot of ways synth could be used these days: stand alone or connected, master or slave, live performance or studio work etc. The experience and the feedback would greatly depend on the intendant use of the keyboard. I really like to work in stand alone mode doing some sequencing. I really like Fantom ) and would not change to MODX if I only had to keep one keyboard but I would have MODX if I could justify two nice keyboards sitting there and collecting dust for most of the time :-) ... but everyone is different. Thanks again!
I think everyone needs to take a step back and just take stock... we are living in the most amazing era for synths and sound crafting, we are spoilt for choice with the most amazing technology but instead of being happy with that what do we do?... complain! "My keyboard has 256 polyphony but I want 512 or 1024"... can you imagine how much you all would complain if you were living in any other era! Watch some of the top musicians of the past and see how good they were mostly with very limited technology... stop moaning and learn to become better musicians and hone your skills!
Thank you for watching the video and for your comment. I agree with you... things have improved a lot... but... I was actually considering making a video review of my KORG iS50 that was made in 1998... Surprisingly, it sounds better than a lot of modern keyboards and when I play it I get doubts as to the development & improvements of the past 20 years... has there really been that much of improvement... I mean is what we have today worth 20 years of development and improvements??? Interfaces and connectivity with myriad of options & touch screens - yes but the sound and polyphony stuff - I'd say it is debatable. After all, I would say we are very close to bridging the gap and having products that can do everything perfectly and have the limits you would not know exist but we are not there yet as far as my recent experience goes. It is just my thoughts and I understand everyone's view may vary depending on the need and use of modern gear. I really like comments like these - thank you!!!
@@amateurmusicstudio This is an interesting comment. As I have been trying to decide between these two, and I am discovering that really, the MODX is full of upgraded Motif sounds, and Roland seems to be hawking the same sounds that were in the JV1080, aside from the sampled "realistic" instruments. While I am sure that both companies are using new technology to "upgrade" these sounds, how far have we really come? Older Yamaha's (MOXF, XF, etc.) don't sound that much worse than the newer ones, and when I go through Roland presets on newer boards, I do hear the improvement, but it seems like they are trying to re-sell you the JV, JD and the D50.
I really appreciate such critical views. I am sick of all the clapping out there. BUT... Who ever inspected one of those machines completely? Noone! AND... what is the main essence of music? The sound! And because for me FM is a 40yr old piece of sh..., I am interested in those sample waves. Did one player... worldwide... ever played such a simple sample over the whole keyboard and used his/her ears??? I do so many, many times when arranging. Don't you search for sounds? There are a vast amount... perhaps all... I take my latest example: cello. Even taking in account the range of the original... I play c, cis, d, dis... SURPRISE!... also surprise on e and f... then normal again. What's up? Different sound/timbre (don't engl word), louder, panned to left... WHAT!!!??? Why panned to left??? Imho... and with all possible respect... you synth-cracks completely lost the grip. And those machines are, what you deserved with all those strange wishes I read on "ideascale". Pipifax here, pipifax there... and no one of those Pipifaxes are perfectly realized in the MODX. None! I am neither a crack, nor a fan... music and sound is all, I am interested. If the essence of music is crap... what do you expect in the rest? How making music with samples that differ from key to key?
Thank you for your comment. I have to agree... money saving.... instead of sampling every note the sounds are built with transposing the sample up and down... I think we are getting closer to the time when keyboards would use sample for each note for ALL the sampled sounds and not just for a few... Let's hope it happens soon... Thanks for watching!
@@amateurmusicstudio Unlike you, I kept my MODX; I'll tell you the reason straight away. So I got to know both the device and Yamaha intensively. Together with my research on the Internet, I came to the conclusion: I no longer trust anyone. No manufacturer, no review and no device. There is NOTHING in the world where "review" means clapping like crazy after 5 minutes of playing. "Piano Sound", keybed... sure... like my washing machine... I'm only interested in whether the knob is pink or yellow. Whether it can wash is completely uninteresting😜😂 The MODX was admittedly cheap and that's it. I will never buy a workstation like this again. "Sampling"... is very expensive. I read specialist articles from a German expert in it. You don't necessarily have to do this with every note. But of course: the more, the more complex. But you only do it once for all time. And romplers/expanders have been around for ages. One should expect that an old monster company like Yamaha has everything your heart desires. In any case, I have around 300 samples of each percussion part. So 300 HH, 300 Kicks, Toms... And the fact that tones are panned cannot be explained by transposing them via playback speed. The machine also does this with user samples... and the result is otherwise modest. Cheap technology... but if it doesn't produce any useful results, what's the point in it? My forecast is not as optimistic as yours. First of all, to date no one has been able to explain to me what these "workstations" are supposed to be for. They are not playable (compared to a keyboard). And they have far too much ballast on board, which also costs money, to be used as a dull input device for a DAW. MIDI keyboard: less than €100. And as a simple expander (rompler) you don't need 100 flashing buttons. The devices are pointless and hugely flawed. Normal people don't buy a device that is defective. Only synth freaks do that. In order to improve the sample quality, buyers need to 1) notice this first, 2) apply pressure with criticism and 3) a manufacturer who is open to criticism and 4) fix the errors. None of this exists in the Yamaha world. Out of 1000 mistakes, Yamaha admits maybe 5 and hasn't fixed a single one of those 5. This is what it looks like☝️ It's possible that the synth community, which is characterized by endless suppression of such things, is still keeping the pieces alive. But they don't get any better. Should we bet? 😉
@@hanswurst2490 Thank you for your comment. As before, I agree on most of the things you have mentioned although some of those I have never thought about before reading your comment 🙂. MODX was nice but far too different from what I have used to with Yamahas... On the other hand - I have so many updates I want to share in new videos.... but no time for making any at present.... Hopefully I would catch up towards Christmas time...
You forgot to mention the pathetic excuse for polyphony. Talking about limitation for any live player that likes to layer sounds. I bought a 07. Worst keyboard purchase I ever made. Gave it to my son and thank goodness I did not sell my MODX. And you are right on the crap pianos. I mean they really suck if you are coming from something of quality. Takes you back like 20 years... or more.
Thank you for watching and for your comments. I totally agree - it was one of the points I have forgotten to mention - it is not suitable for live as far as I can tell. Thank you
For me "synthesizer" means "horny" sounds (german word for extra fine). The MODX is absolutely the best, when it's about "natural" sounds. But if you are a techno-fan or synthi-fan of old ages (Jean Michel Jarre, Oldfield etc.) it is disappointing. Only a few supersaw-samples, and that's it. No chance to create the lead of Alan Walkers "Faded" for example. Softsynth deserve more to be called "synthesizer". Saw-wave... manipulate... unison... done. And by the way the MODX cannot scale a sample of such a wave. No chance to play such sounds with the MODX.
Isn't that a pretty big issue to not talk about?!? I'm a live player and I have been enchanted by the workflow of the Fantom 0, but you're saying it's useless in a live environment??? Clarify please.
@@ramoneforbes2392 sure Ramone, as stated above the polyphony is the biggest problem. If you like to layer sounds the crap polyphony engine will not let you. You will start dropping notes left and right. Lets say you want to layer a piano, elec piano and a pad or string for a nice 80s patch to play live. Aint' gonna happen without dropping notes so live you will hear it cut out left and right. Also the piano engine as I mentioned above is not good at all. You have to go up to the flagship model to get decent pianos. And yes I downloaded every add on pack they had and they all suck. The pianos on the original Motif from back in the day are way better if that tells you anything. Moving around the system once learned the language was fairly good I will give them that. If thats what you are enchanted about, you will regret it because the bread and butter is not there. Oh, forgot to mention we already have a dead key. Have to ship it back to sweetwater for repair.
@@dmoss1285 What's crazy is I get so many mixed feedback. Some people say they have no problems with combining around 5 sounds and play live well. Others say they have issues. I'm just trying to start my music production journey so I was looking for a board that can play live and help the start of the journey not be so overwhelming. I saw the Fantom 0 as a great starting point. While it appears the MODX+ handles polyphony better it is just so uninspiring to me when I watch the reviews on it.
Thank you for your feedback. Each of the keyboards have its own advantages and drawbacks so I guess it depends on the primary use and priorities. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and for leaving your comment!!!
What? I have a MODX and i have to say it has the absolute worst Piano sounds one could ever imagine. They don't even sound like a Piano. Hard to believe that someone could say that he liked the Yamaha pianos better than Rolands.
Thank you for watching the video. Well, everyone's perception is different and this debate has being going on for a while. I personally prefer the sound of Yamaha pianos for stand alone play and Roland pianos as part of a song. I guess, it could be me because of playing Yamahas for over 20 years and getting used to that sound... Thank you for your comment!
You are the only one who says otherwise. Everyone knows yamaha is the way to go on pianos and roland on synths. Next time do yourself a favour and shut up NOOB
This is a fantastic comparison - thank you! I have a MODX and was thinking of getting a Roland.
Thank you for your comment - I am so happy that my videos help other people to avoid the same mistakes or help making decisions. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for this in depth analysis! So many things were addressed that I wouldn’t have known otherwise! Cheers
Thank you for leaving the comment. I am glad it is helping people to make decisions!!! Thanks for watching...
Excellent video! Very clear explanation. Best review I’ve heard
Thank you so much for your comment - I really appreciate it! Thanks for watching!!!
thanks for this comparison, I needed exactly those information
Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching it!
I dream of a day where Roland and Yamaha cooperate on a synth: Roland for the layout and workflow organisation, and Yamaha for the rest....with sampling and all the bells and whistles....
It is really a good idea... I keep thinking of getting Yamaha for some sounds I used to and other stuff... so - agree!!! Thank you for watching!
Thank you so much for this detailed review! I've been trying to decide between the Roland 0 and the Modx+, and you've given me some great insights.
Your point at 13:05 was a game changer for me. It seems like Roland knows how to make sounds that are ready to mix, which is so important. I mean, have you ever tried mixing a real Steinway? It's a nightmare! And while Yamaha keyboards sound super realistic, they can be a real pain to mix properly. I had the same problem with my old Juno DS. I was really disappointed with the piano quality until I heard it in a song that was recorded live alongside older recordings with a MIDI controller and a high-quality piano VST. It was eye opening, it sounded better with the bare roland sounds
So, based on your review, I'm leaning more towards the Roland now. I love the controllers, sliders, faders, and pads, and the user interface is great. Sampling and triggering sounds from the pads live are also really appealing to me. The only downsides for me are the size (it's a bit too large), and the sound quality of the acoustic instruments could be better. I really wish they would get rid of the side joystick.
As for the Modx, I love the sound quality of the acoustic instruments and the user expansion memory. The compactness is also a plus, and the Scenes and SSS implementation are perfect for my usage. However, the user interface and sampling leave something to be desired. The controllers could also be better, and the keybed is not ideal for me. It feels like they're using plastic-bridge keys, like in toy pianos.
Thanks again for your amazing review! It's really helped me make a decision.
This is my list so far:
*Roland-0: *
+++ Controllers, Sliders, faders, Pads
+++User Interface
++Sampling
++ Trigger sounds from the pads live
+Keybed
-Sound Quality of acoustic instruments
- - Stupidly large (They should get rid of the side joystick)
*Modx: *
+++Sound Quality of acoustic instruments
++User Expansion memory
++ Compactness (The 76 key is as large as the Roland 61 key)
-User interface
-Sampling
-Controllers
- - - Keybed (This is stupid how they are using this plastic-bridge keys like in toy pianos)
Hi there. Thank you for watching. I am so glad it makes a difference to other people - that was the intension! I hope it works for you!!! Thank you for your comment!!!
Obviously you don't know/heard much of those Yamaha samples😉 Read my answer above. Second: if I want to play piano, I sit on my ePiano. This ancient piece has also an outrageous pipe-organ-sound😉 If I use a "synthesizer" I'm more interested in electronic sounds. As far as I heard, Roland is a galaxy better at those. At least they invented "supersaw". And for sure! Not Yamaha. Because Yamaha is "crying" endless. No power at low frequencies... even worsened by presets in element-amplitude. Ever visited this menue? High frequencies destroy any sound. Filtering destroys volume. Only with an EQ and many, very strange adjustments of this, you get a balanced sound with needed volume . As far as I heard, the Roland sounds much more powerfull, has low frequencies. I am going to check the Yamaha-spectrum in the following weeks with different analysers. I wonder, why noone notices this disturbing thing at Yamaha. I will prove it by graphics.
The sequencer of Roland seems to be a galaxy better. Yamaha: blind-flight.
If I could start at zero, I also would buy a Roland! But I have this MODX and won't buy a workstation again.
And you are right; the keys have plastic-nipples at the MODX. Not the Montage.
. Yeah, roland excels at synth sounds and looses in acoustic ones.
good points, it would be nice to see some of these features moved into the Yamaha platform.
Totally agree - thank you for watching!!!
Thank you sir for your helpful video , and I read all those comments, surprise me nobody is talking about korg nautilus, it’s almost in the same range price
Cause I urn one and I was so curious about fandom and Modx
Thank you for your comment. Well, that is true. I have a good 'relation' with Korg in general (I currently owe two models but both of those were made 20 years ago). When the krome just came out I used to owe Yamaha MX 49 and I purchased the brand new krome everyone was raving about at the time. I returned Krome within two weeks as it was nothing in comparison to the cheaper lower grade Yamaha MX49 and ever since I have partially lost my interest in newer models. So, how is it?
Are you sure that Nautilus is in the same price league? I understand i that it is like same when it does not come out more of 10% of the price range. Now we can see that Nautilus is pricer ~ +30% comparing to YModx 😊
The expansion packs are phenomenal on the Fantom O. Jupiter 8, Juno 106, JX8-P, and SH101.
Probably the best thing about the Fantom O is the expansion packs.
Thank you - absolutely agree. This is something I was truly surprised with after switching to Roland - so easy and effortless... Thank you for watching!
You can make custom arpeggios in the step lfo, and u can continue/layer notes in the trec and step record and maybe piano roll modes, which even of u recorded in real time can switch into those modes
Thank you for your comment. I agree with you but some of the things was easier on MODX and some are better on Fantom 0 - I guess it all depends on how the keyboard is used and what is the priority for each user. Thank you for watching!
thank you so much for the details , i have a yamaha MODX6 , i want to sell my MODX6, swap it with the Yamaha Motif XS6 , i want to good piano sounds good keybed , production grade sound quality? what are your thoughts about it ? you suggestion will help me for the purchasing decision of Yamaha MOTIF XS6
Thank you for watching the video and for your question. The Motif XS was a good one but the MODX sounds better in terms of sound 'fullness' and quality. But, saying that - if I had to choose to work with MODX or MOTIF with no computer MOTIF would be a winner for me because of the sequencer. I would also suggest to check the MOTIF XF as this was the last MOTIF before MONTAGE era and it had more sampling memory and some other extras. Thanks
I also wished a few things for this keyboard including:
1. Make it USB Class Compliant. This might be due to the Roland OS (and how it's implemented), but I really wished it had that, it would solve at least half of the problems it currently has (the weak pianos that like you I dislike).
2. More sample memory. If you don't like a sound, or want to add a particular sound you like from your computer, another keyboard etc. sample it and add those samples to the keyboard. The Yamaha is very good at that and at least allows you to do that, but the Roland is very limited in that aspect.
Things I like about this keyboard:
1. The plethora of control options. You have 8 faders, knobs, buttons (between the knobs and faders), and 16 pads. Yamaha were honestly a bit stingy in giving control options. Sure, 4 faders is better than 0 faders, but I mean, Roland did why can't Yamaha do it?
2. Integration with Mainstage/Logic and Ableton. Pretty neat combo with your computer, and since you can control multiple MIDI zones, you could potentially control 32 MIDI zones, 16 internal and 16 external, provided there's enough horsepower for all of them.
3. The Zenology VST. Create a sound there, copy it to the keyboard, and back.
I really liked the keyboard, but since I like running light (having one keyboard doing everything) I wish I could use my phone (iPhone) to cover those weak sound categories but alas, Roland will not change it.
Oh well, let's see what Yamaha has in store for NAMM '23.
Thank you for your comment. I was surprised to learn that Fantom 06 was not class compliant since MODX was. I have forgotten to mention that. Since I do not do any pro work I have not come across the issues with memory yet but looking at the paper I am sure it is a valid point. I guess, everything is subjective and depends on the type of work, type of required sounds, polyphony etc. No clear winner for now.
Thanks for the video. A few more points on the Fantom 0 series:
- Very light weight, especially the 06. Fantastic if you're going to be mobile. I think this is one if its strongest points - it's a powerful, versatile instrument that you can take places, but it's not as fully featured as a heavyweight studio device.
- The audio interface is excellent quality.
- There are quite a few features that you can enter quickly simply by holding down Shift and tapping another button/control.
- Although the screen is hi-res, it's something that people with poorer eyesight may struggle with. Something to consider if you're an older person.
- The pattern based sequencer is decent once you get used to it. If you are accustomed to using a linear sequencer, you may find it quite limiting.
- No way to "move" a pattern from one slot to another. You have to copy it to a new slot then delete the original. This can be a bit awkward if you're trying to reorganize your patterns.
- You can only record 8 patterns per track/instrument. Adequate for basic compositions but it's a limit you can run into easily for more complex songs.
- You can only record 64 bars in a pattern. Again, adequate for most material but not if you want to do long recordings.
- When recording, the filter and resonance knobs don't record the CC events, by default. You have to assign these functions to a different knob for them to be recorded. Or you can use the piano roll afterwards to insert those CC events.
- There are various sequencer features that are absent like "punch in/out" or "ripple edit".
- Some of the Tones can cut out when played staccato style, possibly polyphony limits.
- No aftertouch.
You can work around the 8 pattern limit if you sample your current mix (a group of patterns or a full song) and store in the pad memory, then use that in another scene where you add more tracks & patterns.
Thank you for your comment - I did not know those myself so it was very useful!!!
Thank you for your comment - since I only do music for pleasure and not for business I have not managed to run into those troubles yet - it was very interesting to find out about some of those!!! Thank you!!!!
The Fantom 0 pianos are pretty bad, although I use the Fantom 7 and also the V-Piano, which I think sounds better than the Yamaha pianos. Unfortunately, Roland made a big mistake when they released the SuperNatural Piano 1 and 2 expansions. The original SuperNatural Piano contained a lot of adjustment options, in Fantom you can only add the stereo effect. I had a Roland FA7 and the SuperNatural piano was outstanding, much better than the Yamaha pianos. It had string resonance, and the sound was completely parameterizable. For example, when the piano is half open or closed. I don't understand why they removed all the functions from the SuperNatural sounds. It became a pure 90s sound because of it. I do not like. Fortunately, V-Piano is good. Arpeggios are pathetic, I never cared about 10,000 arpeggios in MODX. I had it too, but the problem is that I can't make my own arpeggio. I bought Fantom because I'm interested in synthesizer sounds. They are the best, especially when compared to other manufacturers. Especially if all 4 Model Expansions are included. I ran into the limitations of Polyphony, but many people forget that MODX is only AWM2 and includes FM-X. The Roland Fantom uses Zen-Core VA filters in many cases, which can understandably reduce polyphony, but this is the case with all Virtual Analogs. On the other hand, I did not encounter any polyphony problems with PCM sounds. AWM2 is PCM sounds if you look at it. Why are Yamaha acoustic sounds better? Because Waveform is all stereo. Everything is mono to Fantom and panned to 4 Partials. Unfortunately, there are no Waveforms in it, only the sounds of the old XV-5080 sound module and a couple of old Fantoms from 2001. Yamaha adds the AWM2 new Waveform set to every new synthesizer, Roland does not.
Thank you for your great comment and thank you for taking time to explain the differences with Fantom. I was wandering about the Fantom and all the related aspects - like sampling, sound engines, memory, sound card etc. You have answered a lot of those questions - thank you. I think I have found a way of making my Fantom 06 perfect and I hope to make a video about it soon. Stay tuned. Thank you for watching.
Thank you for your video. It was very clarifying. I have one question, if you can answer me, please: on the modx there is a fader to usb level (daw level), next to the master volume fader. Furthermore, there is a volume knob for the Analog inputs from the back panel. This is amazing for playing live with two keyboards and virtual instruments from a laptop. That let all de control of volume in your hands. So, here is the question: how is this scenario on the Fantom 0? Thank you!
Thank you for your question. The Fantom 0 series comes with stereo Line in and a separate Mic input with the volume control for the Mic. Within the software mixer the Audio input can be selected to either Line or Mic and the input can be turned ON and OFF there too. The USB audio can be easily routed to the main output with software volume control but can also routed to output 3-4 if required. I hope this helps but please let me know if you need more information on this. Thanks for watching!
@@amateurmusicstudio Thank you so much for your answer, it brought very good information. But my question is: is it simple to control the volume of the usb and analog inputs on the fly, in live situations, on Fantom-0, like it is on the modx?
@@elizeujunior Oh, sorry. No, it is not as easy as on the MODX. It is possible but I do not do live gigs so would not know that. I hope it helps but please let me know if you have any other questions
@@amateurmusicstudio Being able to quickly control the input levels is crucial in live situations. That's why this answer was so significant in influencing my purchasing decision. Thank you so much for your time!
Hey! HNY! It would be very interesting to hear your comments how's easy/ complex creating that techno song that you recreated on Yamaha: the same as some guy did first on Fantom 😊
Hi there and thank you for your comment. It is a great idea but I have sold my MODX a while ago in favour of Fantom 06 from Roland. Copying was not difficult for me since that is what I used to do for half of my life (although that part of my life was a long time ago) :-) I was not trying to create a masterpiece since I owed MODX for a few days at that moment so did not know much about it. Also, everything including making and uploading the video took me three hours. I guess, I may do a video demonstrating how I do stuff like that if it is of any interest to the public. Thank you for watching!
Hlo sir can u please help me 🙏
When i play sitar or violine sound and change to piano the sound is just shake it why if u know sir please tell me please
Thank you for your question. Do you mean playing on Roland Fantom 06 or MODX?
Good info and pertinent for many people trying that keyboard range. I liked the layout of the Fantom 06 but sounds weren’t as good as modx, and the extra space up top for an iPad etc is nice on modx. I wish they made a modx or a nautilus with the Nord electro keybed haha.
Thank you for your comment. I have to say that MODX appears to sound 'fuller' and 'richer'... but as I keep using Fantom 06 I am getting surprised more and more: a lot of presets on MODX are made with a lot of sounds. If I use about the same number of sounds the Fantom 06 sounds as good or even better but only for synths. If you like to play pianos, strings, guitars etc- between the two MODX is the answer. Thank you for watching!
@@amateurmusicstudioI have ended up with the Fantom 08 now because it is very light for a full 88 and I like the built in interface. It’s a really good board for the price. I got it like 800 off so I’m happy ha.
@@andrewyancey878you're a lucky guy. I would not resist such deal too.
If you had to choose between the Roland Fantom 06 or the Yamaha Modx6+ which would you choose? I plan on using my Mpc live 2 with it as well.
Thank you for your question and for the comment. Funny enough but I received my MPC Live on the day you asked the question. It is my first MPC and I am currently familiarising myself with the workflow. I have chosen Fantom 06 over MODX since MODX was not working for me - I did not enjoy the workflow and complex menus but liked the sound. Fantom won since it sounds ok but the workflow for me is a pure joy!!! Thanks for watching.
@@amateurmusicstudio No problem. Thanks for the reply. I’m in the process of getting a Mpc live right now.
I don't understand, what you are doing with those machines. I am a player. After one year with the MODX I can say that it can everything, but nothing really well. Workflow is simply not existing. I also found many, many faults. But I am worldwide the only one who is neutrally looking at those machines. Fact is, that one cannot judge them after some days or months. And seemingly noone notices those faults, insufficiencies or senseless searching in senseless numbers of sensless arpeggios.
Don't praise those libraries of 10.000 or 2.000 of something! My livetime is not long enough to search for fitting arpeggios for every song I play. In the meanwhile I craft everything myself; especially drum tracks. And the sidechain compressing is not as fine as you mentioned. Depending on the sound and hardness it makes snapping-sounds.
For ME one thing would be clear: 400€ more for this ridiculous "+" of the newest MODX... NO! Dispite my extensive critics the MODX was an acceptable compromise. And I would never again buy a workstation again. Simply because noone talks about faults. And because at least Yamaha does nothing to communicate and fix those things.
@@amateurmusicstudio MODX by far IMO
Is worth buying workstation instead of cheaper midi keyboard alternative when having portable daw gear already? Also you can see quite competative MPC key prices, which is a combo of MPC live and keybord 😊
Thx for the insight. Made my choice easier.
Thank you for your comment. I am glad to hear that as it was the intention of the video!!! Thanks for watching!
The old Fantom X has very good pianos. And it’ll always be true about old synths having a much better sound engine then the new keyboards. Even tho people may say the newer the keyboard, the more it will have or sound better; but negative
As time passes, these new keyboards tend to lose good sound quality
Totally agree - I have recently done a review of Korg Karma (2001) and Korg iS50 (1999) - and that was the conclusion I have made too... Thank you for your comment!
I have both the Montage & Fantom with 88 keys & they are completely different beasts with each having their own pros & cons. Overall however, I prefer my Kronos over them.
Thank you for your really interesting comment. I was considering Kronos when it came out. That is really interesting... I may give it a go one day.... Thank you for watching!!!
Can we create a pattern and then save it on to a pad? And then use the scenes while that pattern is still.playing like a loop?
Hi there. Thank you for your question. In short - it can be done. The patter would have to be recorded to PAD as a sample (audio). Syncing it could be an issue since it would be audio only without any relation to what is currently paying and the current tempo. I hope it answers your question but please let me know if you need more info.
Thanks for watching!
Hi dear, thank you very much....this is a good probable solution....i purchased fantom 06 and started creating scenes. I use scene remain...i would need one more help from you....should i set up the roland ev5 pedal to expression or volume....i only need to lower and increase the volume of scenes. There are 2 pedal settings one system and one in scene edit. Please guide me on this also. Many thanks in advance...
The Roland piano sounds are known to be bad, maybe except for the RD 800 and comparable RD's if you like that Elton John sound.
Ironically it's most memorable piano sound engine is one where only the attack is sample-based and the decay is synthetic.
Yamaha piano sounds are superior to most brands so I got a CP73 to compliment my set up.
The only thing Yamaha lacks is a softer, dampened sound (Yamaha concert pianos are very bright and they tend to sample their own pianos) for more intimate play, but I like that clarity: it sits well in a mix and is easily dampened though audio processing like EQ-ing or reverberation.
The first thing I do with Roland piano sounds is crank up the treble to compensate for their swampy, undefined sound: too much body dominates the frequencies and clutters them, and not enough attack makes my ears scan for defenition.
Thank you for your comment. I have never thought about it but I totally agree with you!!! Thanks for watching!!!
How is the keys on the Fantom6 ?
Thank you for your question. I have not noticed any major differences between MODX and Fantom 06 (although there are some) but at the same time I am not a pro pianist and do not play all that much. Reading comments in other comparison videos there were a few where people reported some differences with preferences towards MODX. I hope this helps. Thanks for watching.
@@amateurmusicstudio Which one is best if you don't want it connected to a computer.
@@pushthebutton4602 Fantom is a clear winner for me but it depends on how you use it. MODX would probably be better for live performances but I do recording and MODX is a mess regarding this :-)
@@amateurmusicstudio Thank you for reply! Maybe will buy a Fantom to play with and make 80's music.
Coming from organs I am a single player; hobby. I see you keyboarders playing (live) only one voice per machine in a large rack of many, and not changing anything. If you do so, you can think about live playing😉 For single performance the MODX is a real "task". No chance against an arranger. So it seems, I am pretty the only one, who wonders, why there are so many bottons. Surely NOT to press them live. I call it a "workaround-station". Pressing a button (ms, arp, scene) often causes disturbing noises, studdering... don't know fitting english words. Not like arrangers, some arps (gate) don't synchronize; they randomly start in their sequence. Let's say the sequence is 1 2 3 4, it can be it starts 3 4 1 2. Or latencies; if you don't press the key in the right millisecond, the arp is not synchron and that makes "scratching" noise. The same problem with my compressor-sidechain songs. Because of enormous latencies I will have to play the key significatly earlier or the ducking is asynchron.
My favorite workaround for the scene-change-problem is also my favorite feature: the sequencer. By the chaining-feature one can realize a clean scene-change. As I said... "workaround-station" 😉
Your video really helped me further! Question: you do EDM? What do you think of the sounds the Fantom has to offer??? I don't need a piano! I really want !!! a machine that offers fat EDM sounds!!! How does it look there?
I've had a MODX for 2 years and now I think I've mastered it. Can do a lot, but can't do anything right. Still, I'll keep it. But it doesn't play well, and I'm a Player. For me, playback is “fake” music. Then I don't need any keys, just the DAW.
I hope the Fantom does a lot more. Those pads smile at me. Can one play it like a keyboard? The things about this sequencer I saw... is it really that fine, easy, mighty? First of all you can see, what you are doing. NOT with the MODX!
The first thing I noticed during my research now: there are many, long and good explanation videos from Roland!!! From Yamaha there is only rubbish and documents from a crazy quantum physicist. I'm not a profi. The MODX is my first workstation. I need instructions that everyone can understand; no physics degree. And Roland is clearly in a different league! That's also worth mentioning! Perhaps not for you; but for all beginners. Because 2 years to learn where to find, how to use and make an arrangement with the MODX is hell! I still need hours, days and weeks to workout a song. After that, I need one week vacancies and have no more fun playing. "Fun", is something I don't really have with the MODX.
Thanks again for your video. Answered many questions for me.
Wow - thank you for your comment. So, just in case if you have not seen this in other videos - I have been Yamaha user for over 20 years and sold my MODX since it was far too different with a very steep learning curve. Also, the sounds in MODX were difficult to work with - each sound is good on its own but mixing a few elements together presented interesting challenges that were more obvious than in previous models I have used. Fantom 06 is a complete different story - easy to understand, perfect workflow (for me), and the sounds - I would suggest these are proper EDM sounds... BUT - here is the twist - based on what you have mentioned - please check out MPCs family - these are great sound engines/samplers/workstations - everything really... It truth - I have these two (the MPC and Fantom 06) and wanted to sell one of those to make more use out of one but despite them being very similar in a lot of ways - Fantom has sounds and MPC - ease of use and sampling and in my case - battery with speaker (MPC Live 2). So, check Fantom and MPC out... Any questions - let me know. Thank you for watching!
@@amateurmusicstudio Okay, thank you. We know each other from your MODX times ;) MPC ... didn't I mention, that I am a player!? ;) I saw it on your channel and therefore watched other videos. Impressive! Very impressive!!! But I am a hobby player; I don't plan to build up a studio. 1000€ here, 2000€ there. I don't have the money for such hyper-action. I'm pretty satisfyied with, what I'm getting out of my simple MODX8 in the meantime. More likely, that I invest in software for such puposes like "sound design". I don't really get, what you mean by "sampling". Record or copy a sound into? I never do so. I fumble on the sample-sounds myself. With humble success to reach the original. But "copy and paste" ... "fake music" for me;)
By the way. I saw the instructional video about the Roland sequencer. You CAN manipulate single notes, shift, shorten etc.. Perhaps you meant the "gate time" at arps (MODX). I also sometimes use this to adjust here and there. But I can also sequence them the way I like it. Because I'm lucky to master staccato/legato in most complicated, mixed ways (learnt organ), I use to do such effects by my own play.
You are absolutely right!!! From the beginning, and because of the limits (parts etc.) I dealt with "elements". And quickly noticed, that "sound layering" is something I don't understand the sense. Doesn't result in a "common"/single sound. Some presets sound this way. But gernerally they use this to hide their bad sampling or to create fullness by panning stereo. Many times I even don't understand what they did. 5 activated Elements, only 2 playing? I'm simple minded ... trust my ears ... chicimicki I don't need. Also: they created a piano with 5 parts ... harebrained. My opinion.
To eyplain your experience with layering, I would suggest "hardware" as the reason. Audio Out is also something like meat grinder. And all sounds have way to much high frequencies. What I heard from the Fantom, it seems to sound "soft" ... and powerfull at low frequencies. But you never know, what the players adjusted. Unfortunately the next dealer is a bit far away from me. Perhaps I should make the way. For now thanks for your nice hints!
I am seriously considering getting the Fantom 06. I really cannot find anything else as good around the same price.
Thank you for your comment. I honestly enjoy every moment with it and if I have to sell any keyboards I owe - this would be the last one to go. Thanks for watching!!!
@@amateurmusicstudio Can the Fantom 06 do organs as well as the VR-09?
a mix of both would be good. I like the step sequencer in the Roland fantom, especially for drums. and the clear good powerful sound and the simple operation. but the factory sounds are not nice.. they are bad, except for the drums. the yamaha modx has very nice sounds and also more possibilities for sound generation for trance music thanks to filters, which the roland lacks... but the yamaha modx lacks the step sequencer (even the korg nautilus has an internal software step sequencer).. and the yamaha modx sounds weak in the drums.. no power.. weaker converters than the roland?.. i don't know :-)
Thank you for watching and for your comments. I agree that the combo of two would be a good idea but... I think I have found my favourite gear that does it all. Keep checking my channel for the latest videos and I will make a few videos about what it is and why I love it more than anything else I have ever had!!!
If I had a MODX, I don’t think I wouldn’t even entertain swapping it for a Fantom 0. Not to say one is better than the other but for the most part they are comparable with the exception of how quickly the Fantom uses up polyphony and it has pads. The Fantom has a marginally better sequencer but don’t care for sequencers on either. Fantom 0 also integrates better with some DAWs like Ableton Live. The Fantom 0 seems more modern than the MODX but it isn’t a larger leap.
Thank you for watching the video and for your comment. I have to admit that I miss Yamaha but only for sounds of piano, guitars and for side chain compression.... that is about it. There are a lot of ways synth could be used these days: stand alone or connected, master or slave, live performance or studio work etc. The experience and the feedback would greatly depend on the intendant use of the keyboard. I really like to work in stand alone mode doing some sequencing. I really like Fantom ) and would not change to MODX if I only had to keep one keyboard but I would have MODX if I could justify two nice keyboards sitting there and collecting dust for most of the time :-) ... but everyone is different. Thanks again!
I think it's very convenient having the big one and the old series
they're different instruments ones easy to carr
y the other one ain't going nowhere
Thank you for your comment. I wish I could have both... possibly in the future... Thank you for watching!!!
I think exactly the same... :)
I am glad I am not the only one!!! Thank you for your comment and for watching it!!!
Now if Roland would show us JunoDS owners a little love and streamline multi samples out from Zenology for import.😜
🎶🎹🎹🎹🎶Play On
That would be cool! Thank you for watching!!!
I think everyone needs to take a step back and just take stock... we are living in the most amazing era for synths and sound crafting, we are spoilt for choice with the most amazing technology but instead of being happy with that what do we do?... complain! "My keyboard has 256 polyphony but I want 512 or 1024"... can you imagine how much you all would complain if you were living in any other era! Watch some of the top musicians of the past and see how good they were mostly with very limited technology... stop moaning and learn to become better musicians and hone your skills!
Thank you for watching the video and for your comment. I agree with you... things have improved a lot... but... I was actually considering making a video review of my KORG iS50 that was made in 1998... Surprisingly, it sounds better than a lot of modern keyboards and when I play it I get doubts as to the development & improvements of the past 20 years... has there really been that much of improvement... I mean is what we have today worth 20 years of development and improvements??? Interfaces and connectivity with myriad of options & touch screens - yes but the sound and polyphony stuff - I'd say it is debatable. After all, I would say we are very close to bridging the gap and having products that can do everything perfectly and have the limits you would not know exist but we are not there yet as far as my recent experience goes. It is just my thoughts and I understand everyone's view may vary depending on the need and use of modern gear. I really like comments like these - thank you!!!
@@amateurmusicstudio This is an interesting comment. As I have been trying to decide between these two, and I am discovering that really, the MODX is full of upgraded Motif sounds, and Roland seems to be hawking the same sounds that were in the JV1080, aside from the sampled "realistic" instruments. While I am sure that both companies are using new technology to "upgrade" these sounds, how far have we really come? Older Yamaha's (MOXF, XF, etc.) don't sound that much worse than the newer ones, and when I go through Roland presets on newer boards, I do hear the improvement, but it seems like they are trying to re-sell you the JV, JD and the D50.
@@michelebass5151❤which synth did you choose?
Both
I really appreciate such critical views. I am sick of all the clapping out there. BUT... Who ever inspected one of those machines completely? Noone! AND... what is the main essence of music? The sound! And because for me FM is a 40yr old piece of sh..., I am interested in those sample waves. Did one player... worldwide... ever played such a simple sample over the whole keyboard and used his/her ears??? I do so many, many times when arranging. Don't you search for sounds? There are a vast amount... perhaps all... I take my latest example: cello. Even taking in account the range of the original... I play c, cis, d, dis... SURPRISE!... also surprise on e and f... then normal again. What's up? Different sound/timbre (don't engl word), louder, panned to left... WHAT!!!??? Why panned to left???
Imho... and with all possible respect... you synth-cracks completely lost the grip. And those machines are, what you deserved with all those strange wishes I read on "ideascale". Pipifax here, pipifax there... and no one of those Pipifaxes are perfectly realized in the MODX. None! I am neither a crack, nor a fan... music and sound is all, I am interested. If the essence of music is crap... what do you expect in the rest? How making music with samples that differ from key to key?
Thank you for your comment. I have to agree... money saving.... instead of sampling every note the sounds are built with transposing the sample up and down... I think we are getting closer to the time when keyboards would use sample for each note for ALL the sampled sounds and not just for a few... Let's hope it happens soon... Thanks for watching!
@@amateurmusicstudio Unlike you, I kept my MODX; I'll tell you the reason straight away. So I got to know both the device and Yamaha intensively. Together with my research on the Internet, I came to the conclusion: I no longer trust anyone. No manufacturer, no review and no device. There is NOTHING in the world where "review" means clapping like crazy after 5 minutes of playing. "Piano Sound", keybed... sure... like my washing machine... I'm only interested in whether the knob is pink or yellow. Whether it can wash is completely uninteresting😜😂 The MODX was admittedly cheap and that's it. I will never buy a workstation like this again. "Sampling"... is very expensive. I read specialist articles from a German expert in it. You don't necessarily have to do this with every note. But of course: the more, the more complex. But you only do it once for all time. And romplers/expanders have been around for ages. One should expect that an old monster company like Yamaha has everything your heart desires. In any case, I have around 300 samples of each percussion part. So 300 HH, 300 Kicks, Toms... And the fact that tones are panned cannot be explained by transposing them via playback speed. The machine also does this with user samples... and the result is otherwise modest. Cheap technology... but if it doesn't produce any useful results, what's the point in it? My forecast is not as optimistic as yours. First of all, to date no one has been able to explain to me what these "workstations" are supposed to be for. They are not playable (compared to a keyboard). And they have far too much ballast on board, which also costs money, to be used as a dull input device for a DAW. MIDI keyboard: less than €100. And as a simple expander (rompler) you don't need 100 flashing buttons. The devices are pointless and hugely flawed. Normal people don't buy a device that is defective. Only synth freaks do that. In order to improve the sample quality, buyers need to 1) notice this first, 2) apply pressure with criticism and 3) a manufacturer who is open to criticism and 4) fix the errors. None of this exists in the Yamaha world. Out of 1000 mistakes, Yamaha admits maybe 5 and hasn't fixed a single one of those 5. This is what it looks like☝️ It's possible that the synth community, which is characterized by endless suppression of such things, is still keeping the pieces alive. But they don't get any better. Should we bet? 😉
@@hanswurst2490 Thank you for your comment. As before, I agree on most of the things you have mentioned although some of those I have never thought about before reading your comment 🙂. MODX was nice but far too different from what I have used to with Yamahas... On the other hand - I have so many updates I want to share in new videos.... but no time for making any at present.... Hopefully I would catch up towards Christmas time...
You forgot to mention the pathetic excuse for polyphony. Talking about limitation for any live player that likes to layer sounds. I bought a 07. Worst keyboard purchase I ever made. Gave it to my son and thank goodness I did not sell my MODX. And you are right on the crap pianos. I mean they really suck if you are coming from something of quality. Takes you back like 20 years... or more.
Thank you for watching and for your comments. I totally agree - it was one of the points I have forgotten to mention - it is not suitable for live as far as I can tell. Thank you
For me "synthesizer" means "horny" sounds (german word for extra fine). The MODX is absolutely the best, when it's about "natural" sounds. But if you are a techno-fan or synthi-fan of old ages (Jean Michel Jarre, Oldfield etc.) it is disappointing. Only a few supersaw-samples, and that's it. No chance to create the lead of Alan Walkers "Faded" for example. Softsynth deserve more to be called "synthesizer". Saw-wave... manipulate... unison... done. And by the way the MODX cannot scale a sample of such a wave. No chance to play such sounds with the MODX.
Isn't that a pretty big issue to not talk about?!? I'm a live player and I have been enchanted by the workflow of the Fantom 0, but you're saying it's useless in a live environment??? Clarify please.
@@ramoneforbes2392 sure Ramone, as stated above the polyphony is the biggest problem. If you like to layer sounds the crap polyphony engine will not let you. You will start dropping notes left and right. Lets say you want to layer a piano, elec piano and a pad or string for a nice 80s patch to play live. Aint' gonna happen without dropping notes so live you will hear it cut out left and right. Also the piano engine as I mentioned above is not good at all. You have to go up to the flagship model to get decent pianos. And yes I downloaded every add on pack they had and they all suck. The pianos on the original Motif from back in the day are way better if that tells you anything. Moving around the system once learned the language was fairly good I will give them that. If thats what you are enchanted about, you will regret it because the bread and butter is not there. Oh, forgot to mention we already have a dead key. Have to ship it back to sweetwater for repair.
@@dmoss1285 What's crazy is I get so many mixed feedback. Some people say they have no problems with combining around 5 sounds and play live well. Others say they have issues. I'm just trying to start my music production journey so I was looking for a board that can play live and help the start of the journey not be so overwhelming. I saw the Fantom 0 as a great starting point. While it appears the MODX+ handles polyphony better it is just so uninspiring to me when I watch the reviews on it.
The MODX is better overall.....And one can get for less than 300 euros the plugins from Roland cloud, which are the same thing. LOL
Thank you for your feedback. Each of the keyboards have its own advantages and drawbacks so I guess it depends on the primary use and priorities. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and for leaving your comment!!!
@@amateurmusicstudio My pleasure. Take care mate :)
What? I have a MODX and i have to say it has the absolute worst Piano sounds one could ever imagine. They don't even sound like a Piano. Hard to believe that someone could say that he liked the Yamaha pianos better than Rolands.
Thank you for watching the video. Well, everyone's perception is different and this debate has being going on for a while. I personally prefer the sound of Yamaha pianos for stand alone play and Roland pianos as part of a song. I guess, it could be me because of playing Yamahas for over 20 years and getting used to that sound... Thank you for your comment!
Hands down KORG piano sounds beat yamaha AND roland
You are the only one who says otherwise. Everyone knows yamaha is the way to go on pianos and roland on synths. Next time do yourself a favour and shut up NOOB