Hey man! Totally agree. I use my MKS-50 so much, especially for bass sounds, strings, and pads. It just sounds great. Had mine since they were new. Now one of the most underappreciated vintage synths. Hope all is well with you!
I have the Alpha Juno 1, Jupiter-4, Vr-09, and the JD-XA. The Alpha has the best Chorus and I have the Alpha 1 so I don't have to maintain after touch on a 40 year old keyboard. The Alpha has additional waveforms to help it compete with the DX-7. The Jupiter-4 is by far the best Roland Synth ever way better than Jupiter-8. In 1981 roland sent me scematics and parts that allowed me to update from 8 to 64 user assigned presets. Thank you Roland. Best Synth Company ever. Kinda sorry I sold my Sh-1 to fund a Prophet-2000 back in the 80's.
You’re right the J4 is better (nicer VCOs and better filter especially) than the J8. J8 has great envelopes but, is overrated. Owned one for a couple of decades, don’t miss it. Have a Prophet X now and it blows the J8 out of the water, especially with custom VCO samples.
Well kept secret: Roland HS-80! Just like the HS-60 is a 106, it's essentially an Alpha Juno with built-in speakers (pretty good ones too) while it looks like a unremarkable home keyboard, also due to the corny "SynthPlus 80" marking. It has extra value for me because of a stereo widening button (and a loudness option as well), a feature that the Alpha's lack. The programmer for the Alphas works on it as well.
Espen is 100% correct and if you have either the alpha 1 or alpha 2, definitely buy his patch bank. It's one of the best and that's saying a lot for a synth that's been around since the 80s. One thing he doesn't mention is that it's the BEST time ever to own one because there are so many great pieces of companion software out there that let you program it from computer or iPad. I really love the new Tal-Pha VST version because you can use it as a programmer for the hardware or program the very respectable emulation then transfer your presets to the hardware.
the rack version aka mks 50 (+pg 300) was my first poly analogue synth.. still have it and use it till today. chord memory is also fun on these. only the filter is a bit a weak point on this synth.
The Alpha Juno 2 is so integral to your sound and is such a great sounding synth, it’s no wonder you can never let it go! It just seems to satisfy a particular synth sound that works so well
People describe bad synth tones as "plasticky," but I always like to think of the αJunos as "rubbery." 😁 Not as airy and round as a D50, not quite as buttery as a Juno 60, but smooth and flexible yet precise. An all-around great machine.
Alpha Juno 2 is SUCH a good deal and it sounds phenomenal. Also, after watching this video I remembered people talking about using iPad apps to program them easier, and I just found out that there's a free app that works with the juno as well as my jx-3p and jx-8p. This actually just made my life so much better, that's the biggest hurdle with these synths solved with stuff I already had.
I had the pleasure of finding a pg800 in a secondhand store where they had no idea what it was. I miss my 8P above all my sold gear. Maybe esq-1. Nah. 🎚🎚🎚🎚
I never liked the alpha Junos when they came out cosmetically compared to the other Junos,but the alpha Juno 2 really is a classic ! I certainly wouldn't turn one down if it came up for sale. Keep it Espen!
Roland Alpha juno 2 was my first synth i bought when it came out , i use it in band for 3 year, i remember the strings organs and bass sound. very good keybed. yes keep it and have joy:)
Beautifull! I’m looking for my first analog Polysynth, I’ve got a mountain of Mono’s, and I was waiting to see if something *new* peaked my interest but I was left disappointed by this year’s offerings; I am very fond of vintage gear, so this might be a good direction for me.
Completely agreed! My AJ2 is on my list of current gear that I really don't think I'll get rid of - along with my DW-8000, for instance - unless I replace them with their rack counterparts (which I probably won't end up doing anyway). Altogether, it's so nice. The sort of hybrid saw/pulse waves, which you can do PWM on, are just one example. Mine isn't in as good of shape as yours - the piece of the pitch/mod wheel that extrudes out is broken off (though it's still usable!) - but I still love it. Gotta love the chorus, too, ofc.
I sold my pristine Alpha Juno2 61 key last year, after 20 odd years of ownership, along with my JX-8P. While the Alpha is definitely underrated and a great sounding synth, with the build quality and weight of a tank, I can understand some of the reasons why it is not as sought after as you'd expect it to be. You need space for these big old crackly synths, and the market is flooded with some amazing new analogue products both new and used. Fortunately, I sold mine for way more than the average used price, and a year later have replaced it with 2 space saving modules - the Korg Minilogue XD and a Pro-800. While I haven't had much time to explore the Pro-800 as yet, I'm totally blown away with the Minilogue XD - with it's 2 VCOs and a customisable DCO - you can literally recreate any classic synth from the past and do so much more beyond. However, Espen, your Alpha Juno2 is part of your overall character. So, don't ever sell... not yet, anyway.
With an Alpha Juno 2, I don't GAS much for a Juno 106. Non-resonant filter aside, the Alpha Juno does more than a Juno 106. It is small and simple and easy to repair too. You don't have to deal with failing sound modules like on the 106, and still the AJ can be found cheap. The velocity sensitive keys vs. the Juno 106 is also a nice difference. I love the size and simplicity. I have the Retroaktiv controller, but with a good set of patches, the Alpha is a great compact synth and a great MIDI controller too. The things people don't like about the Alphas (no knobs/sliders) is also what makes them cool (very compact). It is great we have choices - the 106 and the Alphas. I also have an Alpha Juno 1. Found it really cheap as an extra 6 voices to use with the Retroaktiv controller to make a 12 voice Alpha. Espen, thanks for your excellent patch bank for the Alpha Juno.
I completely agree! A huge part of what I like about vintage synth sounds is the gritty, raspy thickness in the high frequency range and the Alpha Junos deliver that perfectly. For all the other Juno sounds I'm happy with the JU-06a despite its four voice limitation which is just a bit... Roland...😉
I traded my sub phatty for a juno 2 and the pg controller and 150 euro on top 😂That was the best deal i did 10 years ago. It s a great midi master keyboard and you get the sounds on top. Sold my 106. This is still here.
Nothing like another video from Espen to remind me that the MKS-50 is still on my wish list. 🙂 There are plenty out there, and some of them even at a reasonable price... but I'll wait a bit, until later in the year. In fact, after that, it's only the K3m and the MKS-70 that are on my list. And Espen has made videos about those as well, of course.
Ooh, K3m! I don't blame you. I wouldn't mind having one, either. It seems to actually be a warm sounding hybrid, too, like the DW-8000. I remember being kinda disappointed after buying an ESQ-1 and finding it just didn't really have the kind of warmth my DW-8k does. From the demos I've heard of the K3/m, it seems to have it! [Btw, you already know, but yeah - I have an AJ2, and that's a purchase I really don't regret. I got it well over a decade ago, though; prices were more reasonable. So I totally get why you're waiting.]
@@slipknotboy555 I took the 'safe' option and purchased an ESQm (with the SQ-80M upgrade kit in the mail) and an EX-8000. 🙂 Both bought from the USA, and whilst you can rewire the EX-8000, I'm looking for a way to convert the Ensoniq to 230V operation.
I managed to get hold of one in good condition. I wanted an analog polysynth, and my choice (i.e. my budget) was between getting a second hand Alpha Juno-2 or a demo-used Behringer Deepmind-12. After listening to hours of videos of both synths, my choice fell on the Alpha Juno-2, and I haven't regretted it for a second since. Even the after touch works, after opening it and doing a bit of cleaning. I had a little bit of a panic moment when the pitch stick stopped working, but it was simply the set screw that had come lose. Opened it up, adjusted the stick and tightened the set screw and it's all good. Love this synth :)
The synthesizer that Roland should release today is "α-JUNO 49/61 mkII" with modern specifications. I'm somewhat tired of the nostalgia business with the Roland Cloud, which is a glorification of the past.
Exactly. Build on the legacy making something new and classic at the same time. Obherheim and Sequential and even Korg are showing Roland the way but they just won't listen.
The Alpha Juno 2 was my first analog poly. I was a fool to sell it. I got a JX-10 and then added the Vecoven 4.x PWM upgrade which also adds the multi-stage envelope, which greatly helps close the gap, but it's still not the same, the Alphas have better control of chorus and the added waveforms.
I sold mine years before. It was not in a good condition and I thought I could find one later in a better condition. It was a mistake, I regret it a lot.
@@maccagrabme I got mine for around $350 I think. That programmer PG300 was like $400. I have to assume there were fewer programmers made than keyboards.
I paid$ 80 US for mine. I do film scores and it's on everything. It's great for sound design if you get a 10$ app. Your video turned me onto them. Thanks.
I hear they've tailored the presets to sound like the factory presets, but I've heard that people loading up my custom patch bank in TAL sounds different. So I assume it's not totally accurate then.
Awww, heck! I bought one round about the time this video came out, Espen - but I'd have bought yours instead, happily. GUILTY PLEASURES: I bought mine for the "Hoover" sound, and I am proud of it!
All the techno and rave sounds should be banned by law, never to be played or heard again. Those sounds coming out of the Alpha Juno is heresy. Cheers :)
I totally know how you feel. I have around 17 keyboards, and I can't get myself to part with any one of them, all though I did give away my yamaha el3 organ. but I never used it, and I needed to make room for my new cossain bora traveling keyboard. but, the way you feel about your alpha juno, I feel exactly the same about my korg microkorg. but, the one keyboard I keep being on the fence about selling is my roland e-28 keyboard. different ballpark I know, as alpha juno is pro, and roland e-28 is just entry level, but even some entry levels have great sounds. but, I'd love to get some of these 80s synths. the d-50, or maybe the boutique d-05, the smaller version, or the alpha juno, and the korg m1. you said the alpha juno2 was compact. how much does it weigh exactly? I'm just curious. anyways, if it's that important to you, you should definitly keep it, you made the right decision not to sell it, cheers.
I've never understood the asking prices of them. I have the MKS-50. It's probably one of my favorite synths ever made, never mind the 106 (which I also have), the AJ can do things the 106 can't, and, it was such an integral part of early acid house and techno, so many early albums of that era are drenched in it. I'm always considering grabbing another just because they're so affordable.
Den darfst du niemals verkaufen jung. Ich hab Alpha juno 2 (deiner ist besser in Schuss, ich muss meinen unbedingt Re capen .. Schon schlimm genug das seit Jahren alle drüber reden und die Kiste Nu Das doppelte kostet. Das ist ein wunderbarer Synthesizer
bought one for 100 dollars when i came to sweden, couldn't wait to get rid of it because it was useless in a cover band. upgraded to an xp10 and never looked back! oh what a fool :)
I know many musicians (in Norway) that used Alpha Juno's in cover bands in the 80s. In fact, it was one of the most popular choices before the D-50. Due to it's size, price and variety of sounds. We've all done pretty stupid things in our youths though. ;-)
I sort of agree....Every once in a while I go through this process where decide I really don’t have space/ money to have both a 106 & an alpha Juno . objectively the 106 is the one I should sell....but then I play the 106... it sounds too good & hands on controls make it more fun than the alpha😮..so alpha Juno should go but all the stuff you mention is why it’s a keeper. 😅.......then time goes by & don’t think I should have both...repeat as above😊
With the modern technology overtaking the old 70/80's synths they wont sell much any more. I have been using synths synce they first appeared and sold all mine at A LOSS! My Rolands Korgs etc. People are greedy asking HUNDREDS for old synths that anyone can make patches for now - hence not wanted. Im seeing people asking THOUSANDS for an old synth. I had stands with my old ones on taking up so much space and unless you are a COLLECTOR its just not on now. Now down to a couple of synths that can emulate pretty much ANY analog, mono/poly and others. The Alpha Juno does sound smooth though I miss that but - hey I have the patch now so
I've had a 60, 2 x 106, an 2 x Ju-1 and an MKS-50. I only have the MKS-50 with the Retroaktiv Programmer now, sold all of them with no regrets. /If I didn't own a Prophet 600, I wouldn't have sold the Juno 6, between the P600, MKS-50 and Omni 2, I cover all of my analog poly ground/
I wouldn't say that this is a full-fledged analog synthesizer. There is a suspicion that this is a hybrid synthesizer with digital oscillators and analog filters... such synthesizers are called hybrid... not analog...
You can say it, but you're dead wrong. The Alpha is an analog synth. A DCO is very much analog oscillator. It's just kept in tune with a crystal. You're not very familiar with electronics are you? ;-)
@@EspenKraft Many people on many sites often do not delve into the nuances, so they say that this is a pure analog synthesizer, since it contains DCO. Although if you delve into this topic, it turns out that only the first DCOs were purely analog ... like the first Junos - 6 / 60 / 106. And we can actually see the analog circuit of their oscillators in service manual. However, no one has been able to provide the same analog circuitry to aJuno. Later, other companies began to apply the DCO abbreviation to their digital synthesizers. For example, the oscillators in the Casio CZ-101 (1984) are called DCO. But we know that CZ-101 is not analog. The same goes for Kawai K4 - oscillators are called DCO. It's just another good marketing ploy. And if you consider that Casio CZ-101 with digital DCO was released a year earlier than Alpha Juno... So why couldn't aJuno use the same marketing? ) Therefore, the abbreviation DCO is often misleading. And the sites often erroneously (perhaps erroneously) write that since aJuno contains DCO, it is an analog synthesizer. But no one has seen a detailed diagram of the DCO chip of aJuno, where the analog elements for signal conditioning would be visible, as can be clearly seen in the DCO of Juno-60. Moreover, some experts just say the opposite, that in the DCO of aJuno the wave formation is just digital. Eg: "...Then, the top 8 bits of the accumulator are sent to a DIGITAL waveshaper, and then to what looks like an R-2R based DAC on-chip. This signal is then sent straight to the fully-analog filter. " (Russell McClellan from iZotope) ... Pay attention the word: DIGITAL waveshaper + DAC
@@EspenKraft Many people on many sites often do not delve into the nuances, so they say that this is a pure analog synthesizer, since it contains DCO. Although if you delve into this topic, it turns out that only the first DCOs were purely analog ... like the first Junos - 6 / 60 / 106. And we can actually see the analog circuit of their oscillators in service manual. However, no one has been able to provide the same analog circuitry to aJuno. Later, other companies began to apply the DCO abbreviation to their digital synthesizers. For example, the oscillators in the Casio CZ-101 (1984) are called DCO. But we know that CZ-101 is not analog. The same goes for Kawai K4 - oscillators are called DCO. It's just another good marketing ploy. And if you consider that Casio CZ-101 with digital DCO was released a year earlier than Alpha Juno... So why couldn't aJuno use the same marketing? ) Therefore, the abbreviation DCO is often misleading. And the sites often erroneously (perhaps erroneously) write that since aJuno contains DCO, it is an analog synthesizer. But no one has seen a detailed diagram of the DCO chip of aJuno, where the analog elements for signal conditioning would be visible, as can be clearly seen in the DCO of Juno-60. Moreover, some experts just say the opposite, that in the DCO of aJuno the wave formation is just digital. Eg: "...Then, the top 8 bits of the accumulator are sent to a DIGITAL waveshaper, and then to what looks like an R-2R based DAC on-chip. This signal is then sent straight to the fully-analog filter. " (Russell McClellan from iZotope) ... Pay attention the word: DIGITAL waveshaper + DAC
@@EspenKraft Many people on many sites often do not delve into the nuances, so they say that this is a pure analog synthesizer, since it contains DCO. Although if you delve into this topic, it turns out that only the first DCOs were purely analog ... like the first Junos - 6 / 60 / 106. And we can actually see the analog circuit of their oscillators in service manual. However, no one has been able to provide the same analog circuitry to aJuno.
@@EspenKraft Later, other companies began to apply the DCO abbreviation to their digital synthesizers. For example, the oscillators in the Casio CZ-101 (1984) are called DCO. But we know that CZ-101 is not analog. The same goes for Kawai K4 - oscillators are called DCO. It's just another good marketing ploy. And if you consider that Casio CZ-101 with digital DCO was released a year earlier than Alpha Juno... So why couldn't aJuno use the same marketing? ) Therefore, the abbreviation DCO is often misleading.
I played one of these in high school band. I never programmed it, just presets. When I got back into synths recently I had to have that sound so I got an MKS-50, which I love. I didn’t feel like buying a hardware programmer for just one synth so I programmed my Novation controller to control every single parameter, and that combo is AMAZING. It’s like having the power of the Alpha with the tweak ability of a 106. Ended up getting a 106 later on, but definitely keeping both. I assume you’re using the internal chorus - can you share what reverb you have on there?
I don’t agree on the same sound as the 106. aren’t also the oscillators different? I am very into certain versions of the Curtis chips. The newer are good of course as well, but I prefer the sound of the old ones, less sterile, more warm analog fuzziness
I love Juno just as much as you do.But it's no wonder that the JUNO doesn't sell. People prioritize ease of use over quality of sound...the feeling of having created a sound themselves and the satisfaction of seeing that sound become a song.
@@EspenKraft Sorry! I misunderstood. In Japan where I live, analog synths that allow you to edit with buttons and a single fader aren't very popular. The Alpha Juno is a great-sounding synth, so I was frustrated and let my emotions get the better of me.
Much better buy than the juno 106, couldnt agree more. Almost all vintage synths are not worth the redicolous amount of money that people want on reverb and ebay, especially now when all of them are easily replaced by modern battleships like moog one, Prophet 10 and 3rd wave. 2000£ for a 40 year old juno 106 is a joke, especially as it together with its cousins juno 6 and 60 was considered as a joke and a poor mans Prophet 5 in the 80s.
The Juno 6, 60, and 106 are classics because (1) they sound phenomenal and (2) they are insanely easy and quick to program. The alpha junos definitely sound great, cost less much less, and the velocity and aftertouch are nice. But they are a true pain to program because of the silly rotary dial interface. It costs half as much because you are not getting one half of what makes Junos so great - a great 1-to-1 user interface. Everyone's use case and budget differs, so YMMV.
With the muscle memory in place, which you did have back then if you only had this, programming the Alpha with the wheel is a breeze. It's like that with the DX7 as well. The DX7 is very easy to program, and fast too, if you know what you're doing. Problem these days are that people have too much gear etc and use each one so little that they have to start from scratch each time.
#1 Juno. Easy. Best keybed etc. Sold and re-bought. AJ2 + that Mackie 1202 = absolute best recorded analog for the money under 1k. Next step up is probs at 4-5k.
To me, the 106 and the Alpha or not comparable... They are both great, but to me... they are completely different. I have Alpha Juno 1 and Juno 106. I used to have Alpha Juno 2 in the studio, and that is much better than the Alpha Juno 1.
If you mean the AJuno 2 is "much better" than the AJuno 1 I assume you like it's velocity and after touch, and the extra octave (and cartridge port). Apart from that they're exactly the same.
@@EspenKraft Right, they are very different synths despite coming from the same company at the same time period. I have the pleasure of owning both, and they are truly underrated instruments, but yes the PG-8X emulation is nearly indiscernible in a mix compared to the real thing.
The alpha Juno's are superior to the 60 & 106 imo. As you say, they can sound exactly the same as them, but they can do more also. How many times do you really need self-oscillation from your filter? I will never sell my JU-1. EVER.
of course you should not sell it people are getting rid of lpha juno because of tal plug in but tal plug in sound kind of but in no way has the depth of the hardware i compared it many times in blind test with other musicians and we agree that the hardware has tone depth which tal lacks ! this synth is perfect as bread and butter for modern melodic techno which is a huge business now, i produced recently a techno DJ and i replaced all lead, bass and pad sounds that he had done using Serum (serum is the worst sounding plug in ever, sorry to be rude but serum sounds like a screaming which) with sounds from mks50 and oh man the tracks came instantly to life and the bought 2 mks50 after seeing how tracks came alive 😅! in my opinion the alpha juno2 has a character more similar to jx8p and a more psychedelic tone than juno 106.
Obviously you'll not sell it! I bought my alpha juno 1 brand new (I don't have the money for a #2!) and I still have it in my studio. For more 1 decade it was my pad & bass workhorse. (yes the lack of resonance is maybe its main drawback)
I had the 106 in 1999..and it's true..the alpha is very close to the Juno.✌🏻 But the lack of resonance is bad. I don't knew. Today I prefer the JX3P (boutique) and I have it. It sounds amazing.😅 My 106 was broken in 2002 and after repair It..I selled. It's rare to find components.. poly voice and oscillators.
Espen, the reason that you can't sell it is because the Juno-2 is the eighties even more than you. :-) I love the Juno-2 keybed, but I'll stick my head out here and admit that I use mine primarily as a master keyboard,, as there is something about the sounds that makes me cringe, despite my love for 80s analog synths. Don't know if it's the digital parameter access that puts me off or the actual sound.
The alpha Juno sounds just like a crossover between the 106 and JX8P. Lovely sound.
Hey man! Totally agree. I use my MKS-50 so much, especially for bass sounds, strings, and pads. It just sounds great. Had mine since they were new. Now one of the most underappreciated vintage synths. Hope all is well with you!
Love that chord progression you often play at 3:38. Cheers!
I bought a Juno-2 years ago when I watched your first video about it. Beautiful sounds and emotions. Thanks Espen.
Cheers!
Love my Alpha Juno 2 , a very dynamic responsive sound.
I have the Alpha Juno 1, Jupiter-4, Vr-09, and the JD-XA. The Alpha has the best Chorus and I have the Alpha 1 so I don't have to maintain after touch on a 40 year old keyboard. The Alpha has additional waveforms to help it compete with the DX-7. The Jupiter-4 is by far the best Roland Synth ever way better than Jupiter-8. In 1981 roland sent me scematics and parts that allowed me to update from 8 to 64 user assigned presets. Thank you Roland. Best Synth Company ever. Kinda sorry I sold my Sh-1 to fund a Prophet-2000 back in the 80's.
You’re right the J4 is better (nicer VCOs and better filter especially) than the J8. J8 has great envelopes but, is overrated. Owned one for a couple of decades, don’t miss it. Have a Prophet X now and it blows the J8 out of the water, especially with custom VCO samples.
Well kept secret: Roland HS-80!
Just like the HS-60 is a 106, it's essentially an Alpha Juno with built-in speakers (pretty good ones too) while it looks like a unremarkable home keyboard, also due to the corny "SynthPlus 80" marking.
It has extra value for me because of a stereo widening button (and a loudness option as well), a feature that the Alpha's lack.
The programmer for the Alphas works on it as well.
Espen is 100% correct and if you have either the alpha 1 or alpha 2, definitely buy his patch bank. It's one of the best and that's saying a lot for a synth that's been around since the 80s. One thing he doesn't mention is that it's the BEST time ever to own one because there are so many great pieces of companion software out there that let you program it from computer or iPad. I really love the new Tal-Pha VST version because you can use it as a programmer for the hardware or program the very respectable emulation then transfer your presets to the hardware.
Best thing about the Alpha Juno is how slow the LFO can go
the rack version aka mks 50 (+pg 300) was my first poly analogue synth..
still have it and use it till today.
chord memory is also fun on these.
only the filter is a bit a weak point on this synth.
The Alpha Juno 2 is so integral to your sound and is such a great sounding synth, it’s no wonder you can never let it go! It just seems to satisfy a particular synth sound that works so well
People describe bad synth tones as "plasticky," but I always like to think of the αJunos as "rubbery." 😁 Not as airy and round as a D50, not quite as buttery as a Juno 60, but smooth and flexible yet precise. An all-around great machine.
Why I can't sell my alpha Juno; because it's awesome. Thank you for watching 😁
Alpha Juno 2 is SUCH a good deal and it sounds phenomenal. Also, after watching this video I remembered people talking about using iPad apps to program them easier, and I just found out that there's a free app that works with the juno as well as my jx-3p and jx-8p. This actually just made my life so much better, that's the biggest hurdle with these synths solved with stuff I already had.
I had the pleasure of finding a pg800 in a secondhand store where they had no idea what it was. I miss my 8P above all my sold gear. Maybe esq-1. Nah. 🎚🎚🎚🎚
My MKS-50 will stay in my rack as long as it keeps working.
Magical sound indeed Will definitely get one to complement my JX8P.
I never liked the alpha Junos when they came out cosmetically compared to the other Junos,but the alpha Juno 2 really is a classic ! I certainly wouldn't turn one down if it came up for sale. Keep it Espen!
Yeah, I love my AJ-1 but I think it looks like a home keyboard- ugly as sin! But they are very compact, have few issues and sound great!
AJ-2 is one of my fav synths, it has this... dunno... more gritty sound with smoothness to it.
Yes, I also have an Oberheim Xpander, and the Alpha Juno can sound very agressive too.
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Roland Alpha juno 2 was my first synth i bought when it came out , i use it in band for 3 year, i remember the strings organs and bass sound. very good keybed. yes keep it and have joy:)
I one is to have just one synth, this is a good option. Sounds great, relatively easy to program, compact and with a good keyboard for its size.
Back in 1980's I owned one of those. And now I want to purchase it again for my studio...Just wonder, where to find it...
Beautifull! I’m looking for my first analog Polysynth, I’ve got a mountain of Mono’s, and I was waiting to see if something *new* peaked my interest but I was left disappointed by this year’s offerings; I am very fond of vintage gear, so this might be a good direction for me.
Completely agreed! My AJ2 is on my list of current gear that I really don't think I'll get rid of - along with my DW-8000, for instance - unless I replace them with their rack counterparts (which I probably won't end up doing anyway). Altogether, it's so nice. The sort of hybrid saw/pulse waves, which you can do PWM on, are just one example. Mine isn't in as good of shape as yours - the piece of the pitch/mod wheel that extrudes out is broken off (though it's still usable!) - but I still love it. Gotta love the chorus, too, ofc.
I sold my pristine Alpha Juno2 61 key last year, after 20 odd years of ownership, along with my JX-8P. While the Alpha is definitely underrated and a great sounding synth, with the build quality and weight of a tank, I can understand some of the reasons why it is not as sought after as you'd expect it to be. You need space for these big old crackly synths, and the market is flooded with some amazing new analogue products both new and used. Fortunately, I sold mine for way more than the average used price, and a year later have replaced it with 2 space saving modules - the Korg Minilogue XD and a Pro-800. While I haven't had much time to explore the Pro-800 as yet, I'm totally blown away with the Minilogue XD - with it's 2 VCOs and a customisable DCO - you can literally recreate any classic synth from the past and do so much more beyond. However, Espen, your Alpha Juno2 is part of your overall character. So, don't ever sell... not yet, anyway.
.. why couldn’t they add 2 more voices to the minilogue xd
@@ZombieLincoln666 Bit of a shame, but not a crisis.
@@ohdearism I mean it's preventing me from buying one. I'd actually like to see them release an all digital synth with lots of voices, like a 6x NTS-1
With an Alpha Juno 2, I don't GAS much for a Juno 106. Non-resonant filter aside, the Alpha Juno does more than a Juno 106. It is small and simple and easy to repair too. You don't have to deal with failing sound modules like on the 106, and still the AJ can be found cheap. The velocity sensitive keys vs. the Juno 106 is also a nice difference.
I love the size and simplicity. I have the Retroaktiv controller, but with a good set of patches, the Alpha is a great compact synth and a great MIDI controller too. The things people don't like about the Alphas (no knobs/sliders) is also what makes them cool (very compact). It is great we have choices - the 106 and the Alphas.
I also have an Alpha Juno 1. Found it really cheap as an extra 6 voices to use with the Retroaktiv controller to make a 12 voice Alpha.
Espen, thanks for your excellent patch bank for the Alpha Juno.
The Alpha Juno does have a resonant filter. It just can't be brought to self-oscillation.
@@EspenKraft Yes, thanks, that is what I meant.
I completely agree! A huge part of what I like about vintage synth sounds is the gritty, raspy thickness in the high frequency range and the Alpha Junos deliver that perfectly. For all the other Juno sounds I'm happy with the JU-06a despite its four voice limitation which is just a bit... Roland...😉
Love my alpha juno 1
I traded my sub phatty for a juno 2 and the pg controller and 150 euro on top 😂That was the best deal i did 10 years ago. It s a great midi master keyboard and you get the sounds on top. Sold my 106. This is still here.
I love the Novation K station talk about bang for your buck 🙌
i agree! owned a Juno 1 (my first synth..) bought in 1990 when i was 17... i will never sell it! No Way!
Using the Alpha Piano sample from Arturia’s Emulator II VST and got me looking into the Alpha now.
Nothing like another video from Espen to remind me that the MKS-50 is still on my wish list. 🙂 There are plenty out there, and some of them even at a reasonable price... but I'll wait a bit, until later in the year.
In fact, after that, it's only the K3m and the MKS-70 that are on my list. And Espen has made videos about those as well, of course.
Ooh, K3m! I don't blame you. I wouldn't mind having one, either. It seems to actually be a warm sounding hybrid, too, like the DW-8000. I remember being kinda disappointed after buying an ESQ-1 and finding it just didn't really have the kind of warmth my DW-8k does. From the demos I've heard of the K3/m, it seems to have it!
[Btw, you already know, but yeah - I have an AJ2, and that's a purchase I really don't regret. I got it well over a decade ago, though; prices were more reasonable. So I totally get why you're waiting.]
The K3 has the most beefy low end of any 80s synth.
@@slipknotboy555 I took the 'safe' option and purchased an ESQm (with the SQ-80M upgrade kit in the mail) and an EX-8000. 🙂 Both bought from the USA, and whilst you can rewire the EX-8000, I'm looking for a way to convert the Ensoniq to 230V operation.
I managed to get hold of one in good condition. I wanted an analog polysynth, and my choice (i.e. my budget) was between getting a second hand Alpha Juno-2 or a demo-used Behringer Deepmind-12. After listening to hours of videos of both synths, my choice fell on the Alpha Juno-2, and I haven't regretted it for a second since. Even the after touch works, after opening it and doing a bit of cleaning. I had a little bit of a panic moment when the pitch stick stopped working, but it was simply the set screw that had come lose. Opened it up, adjusted the stick and tightened the set screw and it's all good. Love this synth :)
I sold mine in the mid 90's. I wish i still had it now!
The synthesizer that Roland should release today is "α-JUNO 49/61 mkII" with modern specifications. I'm somewhat tired of the nostalgia business with the Roland Cloud, which is a glorification of the past.
Exactly. Build on the legacy making something new and classic at the same time. Obherheim and Sequential and even Korg are showing Roland the way but they just won't listen.
The Alpha Juno 2 was my first analog poly. I was a fool to sell it. I got a JX-10 and then added the Vecoven 4.x PWM upgrade which also adds the multi-stage envelope, which greatly helps close the gap, but it's still not the same, the Alphas have better control of chorus and the added waveforms.
I sold mine years before. It was not in a good condition and I thought I could find one later in a better condition. It was a mistake, I regret it a lot.
I got one after seeing your video a few years ago. I thought i wouldn't want the programmer, but i eventually caved and bought one. 😊
Cheapest one I bought was 79 quid about 10 years ago before the insanity. Still have it and wouldnt sell it.
@@maccagrabme I got mine for around $350 I think. That programmer PG300 was like $400. I have to assume there were fewer programmers made than keyboards.
Very good synth! :)
Why should you. Keep it - it’s worth it!
Now that you playing it it does sound great lol
I owned it for 2 months and while it was nice I felt it was limited -❤
I have one ! I love IT !
Selling it is a crime
I paid$ 80 US for mine. I do film scores and it's on everything. It's great for sound design if you get a 10$ app. Your video turned me onto them. Thanks.
How it compares to TAL Pha?
I hear they've tailored the presets to sound like the factory presets, but I've heard that people loading up my custom patch bank in TAL sounds different. So I assume it's not totally accurate then.
@@EspenKraft I've heard that TAL updated synth a couple of times.
I couldn't care less. Not interested in it.
Awww, heck!
I bought one round about the time this video came out, Espen - but I'd have bought yours instead, happily.
GUILTY PLEASURES: I bought mine for the "Hoover" sound, and I am proud of it!
BTW - if you are ever thinking of selling the Kawai Q80EX, please let me know!
The title of the video refers to me being unable to sell it, because I like it too much. Not that I'm not able to find any buyers. ;-)
Great video espen. Don’t sell it at all !! It’s what the preset sound was very popular in techno & rave music in the early 90’s.
All the techno and rave sounds should be banned by law, never to be played or heard again. Those sounds coming out of the Alpha Juno is heresy. Cheers :)
That thing sounds wonderful and it is relatively small. I'd keep it too!
I have the HS-80 variant bought for $25 at estate sale a couple years ago mint. Cannot commit to selling it.
I have the baby brother Juno 1, love it!
I totally know how you feel. I have around 17 keyboards, and I can't get myself to part with any one of them, all though I did give away my yamaha el3 organ. but I never used it, and I needed to make room for my new cossain bora traveling keyboard. but, the way you feel about your alpha juno, I feel exactly the same about my korg microkorg. but, the one keyboard I keep being on the fence about selling is my roland e-28 keyboard. different ballpark I know, as alpha juno is pro, and roland e-28 is just entry level, but even some entry levels have great sounds. but, I'd love to get some of these 80s synths. the d-50, or maybe the boutique d-05, the smaller version, or the alpha juno, and the korg m1. you said the alpha juno2 was compact. how much does it weigh exactly? I'm just curious. anyways, if it's that important to you, you should definitly keep it, you made the right decision not to sell it, cheers.
Some things are meant to be, Espen. I still have a few bits from the day. Things are different now, not better, just different.
The Key bed alone is worth the price as a controller. Incredibly underrated synth because of the lack of knobs….
But it lacks the direct controls from the 106. That's why i have a Behringer Deepmind
I've never understood the asking prices of them. I have the MKS-50. It's probably one of my favorite synths ever made, never mind the 106 (which I also have), the AJ can do things the 106 can't, and, it was such an integral part of early acid house and techno, so many early albums of that era are drenched in it. I'm always considering grabbing another just because they're so affordable.
Den darfst du niemals verkaufen jung.
Ich hab Alpha juno 2 (deiner ist besser in Schuss, ich muss meinen unbedingt Re capen ..
Schon schlimm genug das seit Jahren alle drüber reden und die Kiste Nu Das doppelte kostet.
Das ist ein wunderbarer Synthesizer
when you gonna make a track using its hoover/mentasm techno noises?
Never. I even did a video about how much I wish that sound was never invented. Most horrible sound ever made.
bought one for 100 dollars when i came to sweden, couldn't wait to get rid of it because it was useless in a cover band. upgraded to an xp10 and never looked back! oh what a fool :)
I know many musicians (in Norway) that used Alpha Juno's in cover bands in the 80s. In fact, it was one of the most popular choices before the D-50. Due to it's size, price and variety of sounds. We've all done pretty stupid things in our youths though. ;-)
Keeping mine. Keybed is great!
I sort of agree....Every once in a while I go through this process where decide I really don’t have space/ money to have both a 106 & an alpha Juno . objectively the 106 is the one I should sell....but then I play the 106... it sounds too good & hands on controls make it more fun than the alpha😮..so alpha Juno should go but all the stuff you mention is why it’s a keeper. 😅.......then time goes by & don’t think I should have both...repeat as above😊
With the modern technology overtaking the old 70/80's synths they wont sell much any more. I have been using synths synce they first appeared and sold all mine at A LOSS! My Rolands Korgs etc. People are greedy asking HUNDREDS for old synths that anyone can make patches for now - hence not wanted. Im seeing people asking THOUSANDS for an old synth. I had stands with my old ones on taking up so much space and unless you are a COLLECTOR its just not on now. Now down to a couple of synths that can emulate pretty much ANY analog, mono/poly and others. The Alpha Juno does sound smooth though I miss that but - hey I have the patch now so
No, what I mean is I cannot let it go. I could have sold it ten times in a week. I just like using it.
I sold mine 3 months ago, I had 3 x 106 over the years as well. The only Juno I never had but want is the 60.
I've had a 60, 2 x 106, an 2 x Ju-1 and an MKS-50. I only have the MKS-50 with the Retroaktiv Programmer now, sold all of them with no regrets.
/If I didn't own a Prophet 600, I wouldn't have sold the Juno 6, between the P600, MKS-50 and Omni 2, I cover all of my analog poly ground/
Yes, addiction is a strong thing... I sold my, and never regret!
I wouldn't say that this is a full-fledged analog synthesizer. There is a suspicion that this is a hybrid synthesizer with digital oscillators and analog filters... such synthesizers are called hybrid... not analog...
You can say it, but you're dead wrong. The Alpha is an analog synth. A DCO is very much analog oscillator. It's just kept in tune with a crystal. You're not very familiar with electronics are you? ;-)
@@EspenKraft Many people on many sites often do not delve into the nuances, so they say that this is a pure analog synthesizer, since it contains DCO. Although if you delve into this topic, it turns out that only the first DCOs were purely analog ... like the first Junos - 6 / 60 / 106. And we can actually see the analog circuit of their oscillators in service manual. However, no one has been able to provide the same analog circuitry to aJuno. Later, other companies began to apply the DCO abbreviation to their digital synthesizers. For example, the oscillators in the Casio CZ-101 (1984) are called DCO. But we know that CZ-101 is not analog. The same goes for Kawai K4 - oscillators are called DCO. It's just another good marketing ploy. And if you consider that Casio CZ-101 with digital DCO was released a year earlier than Alpha Juno... So why couldn't aJuno use the same marketing? ) Therefore, the abbreviation DCO is often misleading. And the sites often erroneously (perhaps erroneously) write that since aJuno contains DCO, it is an analog synthesizer. But no one has seen a detailed diagram of the DCO chip of aJuno, where the analog elements for signal conditioning would be visible, as can be clearly seen in the DCO of Juno-60. Moreover, some experts just say the opposite, that in the DCO of aJuno the wave formation is just digital. Eg: "...Then, the top 8 bits of the accumulator are sent to a DIGITAL waveshaper, and then to what looks like an R-2R based DAC on-chip. This signal is then sent straight to the fully-analog filter. " (Russell McClellan from iZotope) ... Pay attention the word: DIGITAL waveshaper + DAC
@@EspenKraft Many people on many sites often do not delve into the nuances, so they say that this is a pure analog synthesizer, since it contains DCO. Although if you delve into this topic, it turns out that only the first DCOs were purely analog ... like the first Junos - 6 / 60 / 106. And we can actually see the analog circuit of their oscillators in service manual. However, no one has been able to provide the same analog circuitry to aJuno. Later, other companies began to apply the DCO abbreviation to their digital synthesizers. For example, the oscillators in the Casio CZ-101 (1984) are called DCO. But we know that CZ-101 is not analog. The same goes for Kawai K4 - oscillators are called DCO. It's just another good marketing ploy. And if you consider that Casio CZ-101 with digital DCO was released a year earlier than Alpha Juno... So why couldn't aJuno use the same marketing? ) Therefore, the abbreviation DCO is often misleading. And the sites often erroneously (perhaps erroneously) write that since aJuno contains DCO, it is an analog synthesizer. But no one has seen a detailed diagram of the DCO chip of aJuno, where the analog elements for signal conditioning would be visible, as can be clearly seen in the DCO of Juno-60. Moreover, some experts just say the opposite, that in the DCO of aJuno the wave formation is just digital. Eg: "...Then, the top 8 bits of the accumulator are sent to a DIGITAL waveshaper, and then to what looks like an R-2R based DAC on-chip. This signal is then sent straight to the fully-analog filter. " (Russell McClellan from iZotope) ... Pay attention the word: DIGITAL waveshaper + DAC
@@EspenKraft Many people on many sites often do not delve into the nuances, so they say that this is a pure analog synthesizer, since it contains DCO. Although if you delve into this topic, it turns out that only the first DCOs were purely analog ... like the first Junos - 6 / 60 / 106. And we can actually see the analog circuit of their oscillators in service manual. However, no one has been able to provide the same analog circuitry to aJuno.
@@EspenKraft Later, other companies began to apply the DCO abbreviation to their digital synthesizers. For example, the oscillators in the Casio CZ-101 (1984) are called DCO. But we know that CZ-101 is not analog. The same goes for Kawai K4 - oscillators are called DCO. It's just another good marketing ploy. And if you consider that Casio CZ-101 with digital DCO was released a year earlier than Alpha Juno... So why couldn't aJuno use the same marketing? ) Therefore, the abbreviation DCO is often misleading.
I played one of these in high school band. I never programmed it, just presets. When I got back into synths recently I had to have that sound so I got an MKS-50, which I love. I didn’t feel like buying a hardware programmer for just one synth so I programmed my Novation controller to control every single parameter, and that combo is AMAZING. It’s like having the power of the Alpha with the tweak ability of a 106. Ended up getting a 106 later on, but definitely keeping both.
I assume you’re using the internal chorus - can you share what reverb you have on there?
Sure, I'm using a hall reverb from a Yamaha DM3 and a little additional chorus from the same.
is TAL-Pha a good software substitute?
I love it. Bonus, you can use it to control your hardware and transfer the presets you make on the VST to the hardware. Best VST I bought this year.
Hi Espen, i love the elec piano sound you played in the beginning of this video. Is it preset or custom patch ? Thanks
I think it is a factory preset slightly modified. Can't remember.
I soooo regret selling my Alpha Juno.... I sold mine for a Yamaha ha ha CS1X when it came out and regretted it instantly.. 😢
What the Alpha Juno is for you, the JX-10 is for me
I don’t agree on the same sound as the 106. aren’t also the oscillators different? I am very into certain versions of the Curtis chips. The newer are good of course as well, but I prefer the sound of the old ones, less sterile, more warm analog fuzziness
There are no Curtis chips in the Roland analog synths of the 80s.
This little babe is a gem)
Meinen Alpha 2werde ich niemals verkaufen.. 👍🏻
Well, this video just caused the price of a Juno 1 and 2 go up in value by 200.00.
I always get a much better price for my gear after I post video like this. ;-)
I got one.
I love my Alpha Juno-1, it's always the one I don't plan on selling. I have a 20+ minute video playing it on my channel for anyone interessed.
I love Juno just as much as you do.But it's no wonder that the JUNO doesn't sell.
People prioritize ease of use over quality of sound...the feeling of having created a sound themselves and the satisfaction of seeing that sound become a song.
Uh...? The title refers to me not giving up my Alpha Juno. It would sell in 1 sec if I put it out there.
@@EspenKraft Sorry! I misunderstood.
In Japan where I live, analog synths that allow you to edit with buttons and a single fader aren't very popular.
The Alpha Juno is a great-sounding synth, so I was frustrated and let my emotions get the better of me.
No worries.
These things sound great even without FX. Sit great in a mix. AJ2 build quality is superior to the AJ1.
Much better buy than the juno 106, couldnt agree more.
Almost all vintage synths are not worth the redicolous amount of money that people want on reverb and ebay, especially now when all of them are easily replaced by modern battleships like moog one, Prophet 10 and 3rd wave.
2000£ for a 40 year old juno 106 is a joke, especially as it together with its cousins juno 6 and 60 was considered as a joke and a poor mans Prophet 5 in the 80s.
perfect for italo disco, plays aha....... from norway........
Of course. I always say one thing while I do another. Girls love that.
I sold mine years ago about 400 Euro in perfect condition😭 . I regret that so much!
The Juno 6, 60, and 106 are classics because (1) they sound phenomenal and (2) they are insanely easy and quick to program. The alpha junos definitely sound great, cost less much less, and the velocity and aftertouch are nice. But they are a true pain to program because of the silly rotary dial interface. It costs half as much because you are not getting one half of what makes Junos so great - a great 1-to-1 user interface. Everyone's use case and budget differs, so YMMV.
With the muscle memory in place, which you did have back then if you only had this, programming the Alpha with the wheel is a breeze. It's like that with the DX7 as well. The DX7 is very easy to program, and fast too, if you know what you're doing. Problem these days are that people have too much gear etc and use each one so little that they have to start from scratch each time.
@@EspenKraft LOL... Sorry Espen... but in my opinion my DX7 II is not "easy to program". :)
It's a relative term. ;-)
Alpha Juno 1 and Alpha juno 2 is the same ?
Yes, the synth engine is exactly the same.
in order to make sounds on it do you need the programmer ?
No.
#1 Juno. Easy. Best keybed etc. Sold and re-bought. AJ2 + that Mackie 1202 = absolute best recorded analog for the money under 1k. Next step up is probs at 4-5k.
To me, the 106 and the Alpha or not comparable... They are both great, but to me... they are completely different. I have Alpha Juno 1 and Juno 106. I used to have Alpha Juno 2 in the studio, and that is much better than the Alpha Juno 1.
If you mean the AJuno 2 is "much better" than the AJuno 1 I assume you like it's velocity and after touch, and the extra octave (and cartridge port). Apart from that they're exactly the same.
Just curious, cause I know you used to sing the praises of the JX-8P, why did you decide to keep the Alpha Juno over the JX-8P?
Not keeping the Alpha OVER the 8P. I've sold many synths over the last year. The 8P is very well emulated in the PG-8X which is free.
@@EspenKraft Right, they are very different synths despite coming from the same company at the same time period. I have the pleasure of owning both, and they are truly underrated instruments, but yes the PG-8X emulation is nearly indiscernible in a mix compared to the real thing.
The alpha Juno's are superior to the 60 & 106 imo. As you say, they can sound exactly the same as them, but they can do more also. How many times do you really need self-oscillation from your filter? I will never sell my JU-1. EVER.
Were you using external effects?
Always.
I have an 01/w since new in 1994. I dunno why, but I’ll never part with it.
of course you should not sell it people are getting rid of lpha juno because of tal plug in but tal plug in sound kind of but in no way has the depth of the hardware i compared it many times in blind test with other musicians and we agree that the hardware has tone depth which tal lacks !
this synth is perfect as bread and butter for modern melodic techno which is a huge business now, i produced recently a techno DJ and i replaced all lead, bass and pad sounds that he had done using Serum (serum is the worst sounding plug in ever, sorry to be rude but serum sounds like a screaming which) with sounds from mks50 and oh man the tracks came instantly to life and the bought 2 mks50 after seeing how tracks came alive 😅!
in my opinion the alpha juno2 has a character more similar to jx8p and a more psychedelic tone than juno 106.
Of course you shouldn’t sell it. Just gift it to me problem solved
why sell if you had the space i have always try to sell my stuf , and first people not wanna pay for it , then i regret and buy it back ;D
Obviously you'll not sell it! I bought my alpha juno 1 brand new (I don't have the money for a #2!) and I still have it in my studio. For more 1 decade it was my pad & bass workhorse.
(yes the lack of resonance is maybe its main drawback)
I had the 106 in 1999..and it's true..the alpha is very close to the Juno.✌🏻
But the lack of resonance is bad.
I don't knew.
Today I prefer the JX3P (boutique) and I have it.
It sounds amazing.😅
My 106 was broken in 2002 and after repair It..I selled.
It's rare to find components..
poly voice and oscillators.
The Alpha has a resonant filter. It just can't self-oscillate.
@@EspenKraftYou're perfectly right, my reply was incomplete.
@@EspenKraft ah ok...✌🏻
Espen, the reason that you can't sell it is because the Juno-2 is the eighties even more than you. :-) I love the Juno-2 keybed, but I'll stick my head out here and admit that I use mine primarily as a master keyboard,, as there is something about the sounds that makes me cringe, despite my love for 80s analog synths. Don't know if it's the digital parameter access that puts me off or the actual sound.
The 106 sounds way better imo
alpha juno has punchier envelopes IMO.
It's not a real hardware synth, it's got s CPU processor Intel IC P8032AH inside running it, you should replace it with a virtual instrument!
Don’t sell any of your vintage synths; they’re all great!
Sold 30 already. More going out.
Very nice sound, but not control pAnel. Bye bye, physical controls.
Espen Kraft’s favorite synth is the Akai Timbre Wolf