You probably dont care but if you're bored like me atm you can watch pretty much all the new movies on InstaFlixxer. I've been watching with my girlfriend for the last couple of days xD
I own a grandmother moog and a mavis and a Moog Subharmonicon. I'm thinking about getting into more of a full modular thing start it with the Buchla & Tiptop Audio Dual Oscillator Model 258t modular vco ngl@@RickyTinez
is this really the case? I haven't been following the TE drama much but I can't say I have noticed many people gushing over these modulars. Some channels are not doing reviews and have showcased the modular, done builds etc. Me personally I share a lot of Enriques thoughts. I was close to buy it but held of for pretty much the negatives Enrique brings up.
BoBeats Yeah it definitely seems to have died down considerably after the OP-1 debacle. I remember people gushing hard at first and then after the OP-1 thing, and then the faults with this machine started coming to surface, seems like people aren’t as interested anymore.
@@BoBeats TE as a company are almost cult-like, way worse than even apple/iphone because I hear apple fanboys talk dirt on updates or whatever, but find anyone who talks bad about a pocket operator who is not instantly muted or bribed or have sponsors pulled... amazon takes down any critical reviews of TE products.
I love your presentation style. I feel like I'm hanging out with a friend who lives next door. You make good points without being either a grumpy hater or an ecstatic fanboy. Thanks for the wise reviews, sir.
When I first heard "pocket operator" and "modular" together, I was immediately prepared to yell "take my money", especially after also seeing the cute little individual boxes for the modules. But man was I disappointed. My imagination had gone straight to a bunch of cheap little modules in the vein of existing PO's, maybe in the $30-$50 range, cheap enough to make it difficult to not keep buying them every so often. I think you guys all know what I'm picturing here. Little modules that you could actually put in your pocket or bag, bring to wherever, and set up on a table, or possibly some sort of actual (if proprietary) rack or frame, and just mess around with. Something cheap and small and fun, which is what the pocket operator brand means to me. I imagined gadgets that complement the PO series, like something simple as a delay or filter at the end of a jam chain of your PO's. I dunno. Just not this pre-chewed, ready-to-swallow package, with such a high dollar bar to clear just to even get started. Slapping the pocket operator brand on something this far removed from what the brand stands for, is a massive case of dropping the ball, in my view. Over time, I would have prolly been happy to sink those $499 into individual PO modules. Very likely more ^_^ But instead, they'll merely be netting $0 and an erosion of brand interest from me. It's a dirty, rotten shame is what it is.
zooblestyx the volca series and monotrons have analog filters, delays, etc. like you’re describing. They’re cheap, run off batteries and can be sync’d to one another. You could get a keys for leads and 3 note polyphony, a volca modular for more ambient west coast stuff and a volca mixer for it all, along with a pocket operator or two all running on batteries
@@monotronfan1 I appreciate your wanting to help, but I'm not discussing my setup. I'm trying to point out that TE made a mistake with the Pocket Operator brand.
Sure, it's cheap for Eurorack gear... But so is a Behringer Neutron and it sounds more practical and usable (when combined with an sq-1 or keystep) for €140 less if I hear these dowsides... It's still an interesting product, but like many things TE makes there are some compromises I can't really get behind.
A Neutron is a very well designed and priced Eurorack-Starter - I have tons of fun with mine... I can't see where the extra 200$ on this thing would be a good suggestion to a beginner... Get a Neutron + an SQ-1 or a Keystep and you saved yourself 100$ :)
Yeah Behringer Neutron is hands down the most cost-effective eurorack starter, packed with tons of functionality. And it actually fits in a eurorack case! I think Teenage Engineering is working on single modules for eurorack, so that might be a point when I'll be interested in TE eurorack stuff.
From the perspective of a guitar guy (who also has a Juno 60) I am really enjoying this little machine in combination with a couple stacked delay pedals. I was not familiar with modular (semi-modular) systems, but now after experiencing the 400, I am inclined to want to delve further into the modular world. The oscillators sound fantastic on this unit by the way.
I tell this to everyone considering Teenage Engineering, they always were a design company first and a music company second. It looks cool on a desk, its minimalist, stands out, you buy it flat then build it (you are paying for that experience) but at the end of the day its not practical at all coming form a musicians main requirements. Its too fragile and awkwardly shaped to be taking to gigs, knobs are too small, speaker??, no utility inputs (midi or usb) and the sound is subpar at that price. In my opinion this is aimed at people that are either collectors or want a 'good looking' machine and the Teenage Engineering fanboy which will buy anything from them. They are essentially following an Apple strategy which is cool but you need to know what you are getting. Appreciate the deep review and thoughts, not many other UA-camrs have the balls to say what you did (TE is watching) but a lot of people need to watch this and get over New Product Hype.
Pretty much my perspective of this system from the outside looking in. I think it would be fun to play with but I don't think it would necessarily help me finish music. The PO-33 and OP-Z on the other hand. Creativity just effortlessly pours through those little things.
Matt Greer Music the po33 is the best 100$ you can ever spend on electronic music gear, hands down. I borrow my buddies all the time. And i just bought an OPZ and i am really loving it.
I want to say more but - i love your videos man. from the editing to the content to the consistency its really just excellent stuff. i hope you have some cool stuff comin up :)
This is what was inevitable once the hipster factor wore off. Thank you for shouldering this, as no one wants to have to be the harbinger of so so feeling about a product. You did a great service for those on the fence.
Sometimes I watch your stuff for the content, other times I watch it just because the chilled out vibe puts me in a good place. Either way, I'm always looking forward to watching.
More features and flexibility in a patchable synth with an excellent sequencer and ergonomics can be had for the dollars. For example, a Minibrute 2S can be purchased new for ~$550 on sale. I think the TE thing is made more for TE fans than anything else.
In the mood of what the reviewer said: the module selection and the kind of options available on each module make it VERY difficult to create the kind of sound that distinguishes modular from fixed architecture sinthesizers. You'll be really hard pressed to get something unsual out of those modules, with that selection of functionalities. Shure: it's not prepatched, buy there's almost an only way to patch it. It does not have sync inputs, it does have almost no utility modules. It does not have a wavefolder.Then if you want to add flexibility you'll end needing to add eurorack modules, but then you'll need a case, power source etc. and end up needing to get the expense you wanted to avoid in order yo have a proper modular workflow. You are almost stuck with a VCO-FILTER-VCA signal path. And not a particularly flexible one. Both Neutron and Microbrute II kick this thing's ass in therms of modulation flexibility at the end of the day.
I think the TE 400 is a great tool for TEACHING modular synthesis without spending multiple thousands of dollars. It was fun to build, the form is cool, it's not very useful if intonation is required, but I've made some badass weird sounds with it. :-) I will use it to teach students the concepts of modular, it can't be beat for that, and is hands-down better than a semi-modular for this.
Sorry to necro-post, but(as I understand the term, I'm pretty new to this) 'modular' simply means you can(and may be required to) wire the parts together however you want. Things like the Moog stuff is semi-modular because it is 'normalled' to a certain path, working without patch cables, but CAN be routed differently if you want. Love your channel.
Thank you so much Enrique for being one of the few UA-cam reviewers that allows yourself to say the truth instead of prioritizing getting free gear from brands. I am also a heavy user and collector of synths (60+) and modules (1400+hp) and I own a PO-400 as I do with the rest of the TE instruments. My conclusions were the exact same as yours and no one else got to make them public anywhere before! I look forward to meeting you at Moogfest or SuperBooth if you’re going to either of them.
I’m still pissed at Teenage Engineering for what they pulled with the OP-1. The Metal series POs are great for the money though. Not sure on this yet. Seems cool for price as well but kinda don’t want to give them anymore money after the OP-1 stunt.
This is a great video! I love how you strip all the "cool" shit away from this and get to the point, and a LOT of people will appreciate the VERY important piece of advice at the end. Please don't stop ♥️
Good review. I would get a secondhand O Coast, M32, or Neutron. Then be on the lookout for a secondhand Uzues and build a simple wooden case and go from there. Cheaper than 499 too.
Spot on. This thing was in my TE bag before it sold out. Which is funny because I think TE definitely set the stage for almost pathological purchasing (fuelled predominately by their products selling out at astounding rates) of which I myself am not immune. With my finger on the trigger I had second thoughts and went back to the speck sheet only to come to the same conclusion you’ve managed to elegantly explain in this vid. Funny thing is (and this is why TE deserve some kind of international marketing award) hours later when the 400 finally became unavailable I felt that “non-buyers” remorse in the pit of my stomach, though it didn’t last long at all. I’m no shill but I love the TE products I do own, the 1, Z, and a few POs, and I’ll rush back there again when the next Z mod-cartridge thingy is available, as I can’t even imagine life without the OP-lab, but can imagine the regret of those who decided to wait but wish they hadn’t, because as we all know the waits can often drag on and on. Anyhow, After reading parts of the manual and watching reviews (mostly positive), my instincts were reinforced, and am glad I was able to resist the dark, almost telekinetic power that the TE marketing team have over my “pay now” finger. That said, I’m not complaining! I like unique products that inspire creativity, accessibility and consequently loyalty. Now here’s where a little sense of irony sets in with the POmod range imo: When you limit the flow of a product upon release the frenzied buying pattern becomes self-perpetuating (as mentioned above), which is obviously beneficial from a marketing standpoint, and I think anyone would agree that TE have been smart/lucky enough to have these handlebars steering their bike since the training wheels came off a decade ago (with the op-1). This boutique style and image paired with loyal consumers (myself included) also aides them in successfully maintaining unparalleled success with direct-to-consumer retail (something the most successful company on the planet knew was paramount to it’s growth since the it’s conception, and worked hard hard to maintain their independence away from the claws of distro/reseller monopolies. Take a guess which...) , and after all the beans are counted, at the end of the day; marketing, manufacturing, RETAILING your own products effectively and successfully is a surefire way to maximize your profits, while creating a demand. Don’t get me wrong I’m not coming down on TE, quite the contrary, they make cool shit, and good for them if they’ve unearthed a formula that keeps them in control of their distro, while stimulating brand loyalty and an almost OCD demand for their wares. From Canada it always costs me like $100 bucks more to order from their web store, (op-lab = $150 + $12 usd = 217 CAD + $78 duties and taxes and boom! $295 CAD! yes folks that’s why our money is quickly becoming known as the “NORTHERN PESO”) but I don’t think those things have ever been available at any other Canadian retailer, so I just factor that into the cost. I’ve come to accept this “early adopters tax”, and although I’m not stoked that my local currency is the butt of many economists’ jokes, and that the formula used to calculate duties/taxes and handling by UPS seems to be designed to make me walk funny…. The butt-hurt seems to go away the moment I unbox and plug-in, which to me (being fully aware of the rationality) is always worth more than the money, but I digress…. (More like what ever comes 3 steps after digressing… fucksakes ) Anywhoo…. What seems to be occurring (at least with the modular) is the people buying up the majority of the stock are: a) those able to drop 400 bucks without a second thought, who most likely have a ton of other gear and at this price point have no qualms about picking something messing around a little then allowing it to become something interesting to look at on a corner shelf of their dust free, non-smoking hermetically vacuum sealed home studio. B) Those who’ve gotten used to their trigger finger making sure they don’t feel the aforementioned “non-buyers remorse” in the pit of their stomach. B.5) Those who just gotta have everything and experience the same feeling of “NBR”, at the mere thought of not getting their hands on something that will ultimately be desired by peers. C) People who’ll benefit and appreciate the the POmods, and use them to their fullest capacity/potential, and finally D) the trifecta, all of the above. I think C folks are the rarest of the bunch under the current supply/demand climate/regime what ever you call it. consider this scenario:
counted. (was too damn long) You’ve got a PO-33 and 12, music isn’t your life but playing with these units is super fun and has piqued your interest enough that you wan’t to start making beats and music a little more often. You’ll probably never drop thousands on gear because by some miracle you are somehow immune to “gear-disease” and being what muggles refer to as broke, inevitably single and living in a house that looks like a spoiled-rich-teenagers bedroom even though you’re well into your thirties doesn’t appeal to you for some reason, and you just want to dip your feet in with a little style. You shop around, see the POMods, but can’t get your hands on one, inevitably you reluctantly just go for something else all together, but now, even if it turns out you’re not immune, Roland or Korg become the mother ship, and your Pocket op’s remain toys that you play with less and less. “TOYS” you say!? They aren’t toys!!” Ok let’s face it…. The PO’s are awesome, they’re fun, they can sound really good, but they’re toys! Sophisticatedly bitchin toys… but they are pretty much toys never-the-less. All TE gear is toy-like! It’s obviously a huge part of TE’s design philosophy, it’s a big part of what we love about them and why we find them so inspiring. You can bitch and moan to the contrary but trust me you are wrong! lol. if you want to sit in front of your OP-1 and pretend is a MOOG-ONE that’s fine but you can’t spray water all over the kitchen just because you’re still wearing your fireman’s hat, and even though I applaud your ability to use the power of imagination it’s time to sit down at the table, enjoy a juice-box and some Dino-bites and relax, your toys will still be there after eating some lunch. Hahaha. I can hear the teeth grinding already. I kid of course (the playful obnoxiousness, not the fact itself sowwy Johnny yow-stiw-a-big-boy) . Jesus this has gone way off-point, and I’m reminded why I resist commenting on anything… My point is the POmods are the perfect instrument for someone who wants to learn about synthesis, gift for a musical family member or to dip your feet a little. Hmm the 400 would be pretty sweet to take along in the RV this summer…. I never thought of that…. Shit and I can’t get one. Their existence doesn’t surprise me at all, POs make a perfect percussive accessory to my decidedly meagre modular setup, (just a simple skiff, and another area where I think Mr. Martinez is spot on) so it came as no surprise that TE thought to to accessorize the POs with something of the like, if only for the the fact that integrating some modular into your music making can be super rewarding, and fun as hell! Some people want a one stop shop for peanuts the cost by comparison, don’t want to put in the time to do all the research and comparison reading, etc. They’d rather spend the little free time they have grinding every last drop of sonic potential out of something like the POmods, because above all else they they don’t have 10s of 1000s of $$$ worth of alternatives sitting around that do the same jobs better on virtually every level. Jesus, I guess if you filter out all the bullshit of this comment, it comes down to TE’s marketing/supply cycle, with all the intrigue and desire it’s come to inspire backfires in the case of the POmods, because even though it helps to perpetuate the brands ability to insight a buying frenzy, and consumer-perceived-desirability to an almost “need over want” like level, it keeps them out of the hands of the people who would benefit from them most, leaving the “making, making music assessable to everyone” mission statement a moot point, but In the end I’m happy to see a company like TE grow, and I’m not too cynical to admit that their products have been a source of joy in my own life, but I can’t get one for my nephew for his birthday, or even stumble upon it and pick one up. There are none to be had, and it’s unlikely that I’m going to stalk the TE page waiting in anticipation if I’m this type of consumer, so it’s unlikely that I’ll ever get my hands one…. Te should outsource all the manufacturing and distro of this one product to produce the cheapest PO400-like product they can, to be produced by the millions and placed along-side the lego at specialty high-end toy stores, with an unlimited supply chain, in order to get these (or something similar) into the hands of those who would truly use this type of setup to it’s fullest. Then the utopian vision of music for everyone would be at least a fathomable possibility (ick that was cynical). Or start selling the components separately so I can get some aluminum plate and take up some HP in a more versatile setting. I’d use the shit out up a rack mountable, punch-in effect module, or even just some osc’s that are designed to play well with my op-Z, even if I had to rig up the interface / faceplate myself… I guess I could have just said that to begin with…. What I really want to know is if those yellow aviators actually have a “THEY LIVE” like function to them!? Oh and I’d also agree with you Ricky that this appears like more of a semi-modulal system, but I believe, and correct me if I’m wrong it requires at least one patch to make a sound, where I think “semi-modular” by definition has un-patched functionality that can be expanded upon or otherwise altered by using patch points. I almost want to call this something like a “prefab modular”, because the panel is labeled and it’s design is meant to be finite. But I’m pretty much talking out my ass anyway and assume nobody read this far, in fact I didn’t read one comment before writing this kinda makes me an asshole of some kind I think, but I usually only read and never post so I’ll read right after pressing the button for once. …. Either way your contribution as a tuber is appreciated, your vids and demeanour are always super chill, and well produced, from the cutaways to the bg mix, so kudos! The zen-like vibe I think you’re going for is consistently well executed and make informative, but honest easy viewing without all the hype. I suppose talk is cheap though, but at this point it’s all I can provide. That said it is cheap but there’s a lot of it... eh? Lol Peace
I don’t get this at all. For the same price you could get a M32 which is a kickass semi-modular with a really great and flexible sequencer and super sturdy.
About the speaker, I own an EMS VCS3 which is some kind of "shitty" speakers despite the thing beeing legendary. Buchla Easel has some too. Sometimes I just want to put an SM58 in front of it to get that AM radio sound and it is good for quick work or just easy sound tweaking without having to plug and turn everything on. I made some cool effects with a mic in the room and playing something and recording the natural reverb also, kind of like amping the synth. I think it is also a taste/esthetic thing, like how does a "shitty" spring reverb compare to a processor capable of so many things, and yet, the built in spring reverb of the synthesizers is a sonic landmark in the 60/70's synth odyssey. Grandmother was right about that.
I really wanted Teenage Engineering to get into Eurorack but this is the exact opposite of what I had in mind. I wanted them to make modules, little crazy Eurorack Pocket Operators, not a limited semi-modular that is aimed at hipsters who want to dip their toe in the water of Eurorack. Oh well, hopefully down the road they will make some creative modules that can be put into our existing racks.
I'm really glad I discovered ae modular before i almost bought one of these. Although maybe in the future it would be cool to have one as sort of a "coffee table" modular synth that people can play with when I have them over.
I just got one on second hand market for 170$, i really believe that it is a banger for this price. Maybe to be considered as a recreation of 70s semi modular spirit, AKS stuff. It does not have midi or usb but you can bleep. I will go further with a Keystep pro
It doesn't fit with my Eurorack system, but i bought one for my 10yo son. Great introductory tool for a young person to learn many basic synth principles.
I totally agree with you if you take a stand-alone point of view, however, if plug it to an external sequencer this product is completely different, I sequence it with an Op-z.
A great concept in building your own Modular Synthesizer so hats off to Teenage Engineering for allow this to be done, however would it be more worthwhile to purchase a Behringer 2600 ?
I thought semi-modular meant that it had a normalled signal path, ie you can play it without any patch cables, but it includes patch points for altering the signal path. So fully modular would just mean it needs patching to get any sound, no normalled path. I think some old 70s systems weren't mix-n-match, but the semi-modular concept is kind of new
I just bought one and it’s a head scratcher for sure At times I wonder if I wasted my money Then again for what I paid for it brand new is cheaper than any modular out there so I say that alone makes it a good deal at $290 off the TE webpage Honestly Ricky said it best “compromised everything but sound” They do only give you 15 cables and that’s not nearly enough to do anything fun
Great honest review, thanks! It's funny, I wanted the POMS 400, but since it was sold out I had enough time to convince myself that a proper Eurorack system makes more sense. Well, "sense".
Thanks for being honest m'man! I personally don't like the way it sounds and have been really surprised by people acting like this thing is a god-send. I love TE and love their products, but this thing is a no-way-jose for me. For the sameish price you can get (as you said) and XD and that thing is way too much fun. Sounds epic too. I love my XD.
You've just confirmed my opinion on this after watching many other reviewers drooling over it... It's cool, it's novel, it's unique, but it's not super capable and in fact quite limited in what it can do. I have a lot of sub-$500 noise toys, and I love Teenage Engineering's stuff in general, but I'm taking a hard pass on this one. I feel like one could spend the $400 on a Monotron, a Volca and a PO-33 and get a lot more output variety & still have cash left over. Sure, that wouldn't be analog modular in the strictest sense, but still... Anyway, great video, as usual Mr. Martinez. Glad you're out there doing what you do.
If you want to dip into Eurorack, try a case with a bunch of Ladik or Doepfer modules. For $499 you can buy a basic 104 hp case and several modules to experiment with and have some room to grow.
Maria Theresa yellow or gold (named after the empress), a color that lots of stucco on older buildings have in the former Austro-Hungarian empire countries. A very pleasing color to my eye.
good review. i think teenage should do a collaborate with Ableton and create a synth to work with Live. I think you spot on with the audience they were shooting for, but as you said they fell short on that. If they made a cheap euro rack that was aimed at a home studio producer that only has "in the box" equipment so far, but their looking to branch out and add some analog hardware to their setup, a collaboration with a specific DAW would kill it out of the box being immediately functional to the user.
Great review! Yet I find this is really intriguing. From a design perspective I believe some concepts clash here. First, if it is inspired on modulars why isn't it modular? Why Teenage doesn't sell other Operator modules? Why aren't they detachable for instance? I don't believe this approach would be an issue to the "Pocket" concept. Of course there might be hardware limitations that I'm not aware about. They could develop a "TeRack" that would serve as the basic ground for attaching Operator modules. So you buy your POM400 and choose the amount of modules you want. Of course, you'll need a minimum to have an operating synth. You could attach an OP1 for example (through USB via another module) and use it to post-process or as an storage device. You could get a MIDI module (or with more useful outputs), use it, and later reattach another module for instance. This is all valid if we follow the modular concept though. If we put modularity aside, and consider the form and respective functions present here, this ends up to be a product "based" on the modular theme. A product on its own, borrowing the story and aesthetics of the modular synthesis, but cutting away some of its most interesting features. Is it a problem? No, just a different approach. Is it beautiful and functional? Yes, on its own hermetic concept.
No sir, YOU are awesome! :) Seriously, thanks for an honest, insightful review of this. It describes the bigger picture for me to a T - I am a player and want to mess with sound only as far as finding a great patch to make music with. Thus, modular doesn't appeal to me for that reason, as well as having to limited funds to invest.
These things are a disgrace to the integrity of Teenage Engineering. Brutal but absolutely true. It makes you wary of trusting them off the bat...which is what they had built a name for.
I had mine for a few months but ended up selling it for some of the reasons you listed. The big thing for me at the end of the day was the amount of work I had to put in to get sounds I liked was just too much. The ratio of input-to-output didn't add up like it does for TE's other products, like the smaller PO series, OP-1, or OP-Z. I also had issues with the power supply setup they originally shipped with, but that's apparently been fixed in later releases. I loved the look of it and the pricepoint, but it just didn't land for me sadly.
AE Modular! Seriously, this TE thing is just a hypemachine... You should really check out tangible waves for their AE Modular, which is SUPER cheap and still flexible and extendable.
Seems like it’s cashing in on the people who are excited by the word modular but don’t want to put the effort in to understanding cases, modules, etc. that you need to get started. Which is fine, but I mean I just can’t see this growing with someone. Seems like they would get into it then go euro (if they liked it) or get out of modular (if they hated it)
The beauty of eurorack is that you can build your very own rack and this process is super important and fun. I kind of don't understand why they didn't just do a proper innovative eurorack module.
You can actually reset the sequencer by putting a sequencer control to maximum, which is really great when using the square Osc/LFO as reset gates for strange timings. Edit: I would also state I think you’re overlooking the battery operation/relative portability. The built in speaker allows remote jams which wouldn’t be possible otherwise w/o other external stuff.
Nah I get that aspect of it. But I’d rather use headphones out and about. And in that perspective it’s cool. But I was hoping more for something I can bring into the studio and make with other things :) really good points though!
Enrique Martinez Music I pair it with my OP-1, so that gives me effects/headphones while still portable. Don’t know if the OP-Z can take external input the same way - but that’s much smaller.
Most of points you make are pretty much applicable to OP-1. Decent sound with basic sequencing and poor connectivity. Makes me think that's just the way TE aproach design.
Agreed. And that's coming from someone who has an OP-1 and likes it. It's handy for sketching out songs and filling gaps in a studio, but it also has some pretty serious drawbacks. And after creating the OP-1, it seems like Teenage Engineering leaned into their flaws more than their strengths, so their newer designs have kinda gone downhill.
Get where you’re coming from, but the main benefit of the OP-1 is its size and portability (long battery life etc). This doesn’t have that. I love my OP-1 but I’m gonna pass on this.
Midi in in the OP-1 gives it a lot of flexibility for me. I can sequence it from a DAW and record myself doing automations live. Or I can hook it up to a bigger midi controller with bigger, semi weighted keys and record audio from that. And ofc its biggest appeal for me is that I can record full songs directly in the box, although these are admittedly pretty lofi songs
as far as form, Im sure TE made these along with all the other pocket operations for those who like to make modified set ups with. and by "modified" i mean, soldering wire to other wire and what not. maybe if this was modified into another case, or another form. they just throw the yellow casing in for a demo. example, the po33 ko (along with the other one im assuming) have contacts exposed at the bottom. TE wants you to build your own controller for i thought when i first saw that. "god gives us nuts, but he does not crack them" seem like a hint to something better. TE being the gods, us being the nutcrackers. thats just what i think
I like the POs but I feel like they are toys or fidgets more than they are practical instruments. And at the price point of the POs, that’s fine. I bought a couple for my son and we enjoy playing with them. This seems like it’s cut from the same cloth: a toy semi modular with limited functionality, but at a price point where it has to compete with things like Neutron, Mother 32, Minibrute 2, which are *much* more functional instruments.
Shoo mang, orange cords and black whips man. Flows like water down the alley way. Hey man, dont stop just because it wont start. There is chicken on floor cooked real nice. Bust them chops up playa. U da man
I did. I just followed the instructions that it came with lol. My main concern about the other way is the metal is sitting on the ground or table, vs this way it has rubber feet you install in orderlies holes
It confirms my suspicions, really. I'm trying to NOT get a modular, because it's really too expensive, so of course this looked interesting, but this confirms that it's not the starter I want.
Definitely finicky! I'd say it's good for teenagers learning modular synthesizer. Definitely not a one hour track tool. I'd say it's a great sketch pad or insta idea for larger creativity
On the pros: it's yellow.
Refreshing to get honest feedback. Most other channels just drool over all the gear they touch. Keeping it real as always.
gotta flip the coin over sometimes. Appreciate the comment and view Juan!
You probably dont care but if you're bored like me atm you can watch pretty much all the new movies on InstaFlixxer. I've been watching with my girlfriend for the last couple of days xD
@Ralph Quincy definitely, I have been using InstaFlixxer for years myself :)
I own a grandmother moog and a mavis and a Moog Subharmonicon. I'm thinking about getting into more of a full modular thing start it with the Buchla & Tiptop Audio Dual Oscillator Model 258t modular vco ngl@@RickyTinez
Wow an honest critique on a synth channel. Kudos to you for that. This is why I love this channel.
is this really the case? I haven't been following the TE drama much but I can't say I have noticed many people gushing over these modulars. Some channels are not doing reviews and have showcased the modular, done builds etc. Me personally I share a lot of Enriques thoughts. I was close to buy it but held of for pretty much the negatives Enrique brings up.
BoBeats Yeah it definitely seems to have died down considerably after the OP-1 debacle. I remember people gushing hard at first and then after the OP-1 thing, and then the faults with this machine started coming to surface, seems like people aren’t as interested anymore.
@@BoBeats TE as a company are almost cult-like, way worse than even apple/iphone because I hear apple fanboys talk dirt on updates or whatever, but find anyone who talks bad about a pocket operator who is not instantly muted or bribed or have sponsors pulled... amazon takes down any critical reviews of TE products.
I love your presentation style. I feel like I'm hanging out with a friend who lives next door. You make good points without being either a grumpy hater or an ecstatic fanboy. Thanks for the wise reviews, sir.
yea man, if we lived next door im sure we would be hanging! thanks for watching
When I first heard "pocket operator" and "modular" together, I was immediately prepared to yell "take my money", especially after also seeing the cute little individual boxes for the modules. But man was I disappointed. My imagination had gone straight to a bunch of cheap little modules in the vein of existing PO's, maybe in the $30-$50 range, cheap enough to make it difficult to not keep buying them every so often. I think you guys all know what I'm picturing here. Little modules that you could actually put in your pocket or bag, bring to wherever, and set up on a table, or possibly some sort of actual (if proprietary) rack or frame, and just mess around with. Something cheap and small and fun, which is what the pocket operator brand means to me. I imagined gadgets that complement the PO series, like something simple as a delay or filter at the end of a jam chain of your PO's. I dunno. Just not this pre-chewed, ready-to-swallow package, with such a high dollar bar to clear just to even get started.
Slapping the pocket operator brand on something this far removed from what the brand stands for, is a massive case of dropping the ball, in my view. Over time, I would have prolly been happy to sink those $499 into individual PO modules. Very likely more ^_^ But instead, they'll merely be netting $0 and an erosion of brand interest from me. It's a dirty, rotten shame is what it is.
Wtf I can’t stop thinking about that, «pre-chewed, ready-to-swallow». That gives me a horrible and hilarious mental image.
zooblestyx like the volca series?
@@monotronfan1 No, nothing like the volca series.
zooblestyx the volca series and monotrons have analog filters, delays, etc. like you’re describing. They’re cheap, run off batteries and can be sync’d to one another. You could get a keys for leads and 3 note polyphony, a volca modular for more ambient west coast stuff and a volca mixer for it all, along with a pocket operator or two all running on batteries
@@monotronfan1 I appreciate your wanting to help, but I'm not discussing my setup. I'm trying to point out that TE made a mistake with the Pocket Operator brand.
Tangible Waves AE Modular seems like a better budget alternative
Sure, it's cheap for Eurorack gear... But so is a Behringer Neutron and it sounds more practical and usable (when combined with an sq-1 or keystep) for €140 less if I hear these dowsides...
It's still an interesting product, but like many things TE makes there are some compromises I can't really get behind.
A Neutron is a very well designed and priced Eurorack-Starter - I have tons of fun with mine... I can't see where the extra 200$ on this thing would be a good suggestion to a beginner...
Get a Neutron + an SQ-1 or a Keystep and you saved yourself 100$ :)
Yeah Behringer Neutron is hands down the most cost-effective eurorack starter, packed with tons of functionality. And it actually fits in a eurorack case! I think Teenage Engineering is working on single modules for eurorack, so that might be a point when I'll be interested in TE eurorack stuff.
Thank you! This is the best examination so far of where this product sits in the marketplace. Really appreciated! 👍
From the perspective of a guitar guy (who also has a Juno 60) I am really enjoying this little machine in combination with a couple stacked delay pedals. I was not familiar with modular (semi-modular) systems, but now after experiencing the 400, I am inclined to want to delve further into the modular world. The oscillators sound fantastic on this unit by the way.
That's interesting, as most seem to feel that the oscillators are underwhelming and that's not to mention the filter.
You’re awesome man, there’s something so laid back about watching ur vids that make me feel good about making music
I tell this to everyone considering Teenage Engineering, they always were a design company first and a music company second. It looks cool on a desk, its minimalist, stands out, you buy it flat then build it (you are paying for that experience) but at the end of the day its not practical at all coming form a musicians main requirements. Its too fragile and awkwardly shaped to be taking to gigs, knobs are too small, speaker??, no utility inputs (midi or usb) and the sound is subpar at that price.
In my opinion this is aimed at people that are either collectors or want a 'good looking' machine and the Teenage Engineering fanboy which will buy anything from them. They are essentially following an Apple strategy which is cool but you need to know what you are getting.
Appreciate the deep review and thoughts, not many other UA-camrs have the balls to say what you did (TE is watching) but a lot of people need to watch this and get over New Product Hype.
well the opZ is most def. not that
Form factor: turn it upside-down in the case and lay it on the table top? Just a thought. 🎧 👍
Pretty much my perspective of this system from the outside looking in. I think it would be fun to play with but I don't think it would necessarily help me finish music. The PO-33 and OP-Z on the other hand. Creativity just effortlessly pours through those little things.
Matt Greer Music the po33 is the best 100$ you can ever spend on electronic music gear, hands down. I borrow my buddies all the time. And i just bought an OPZ and i am really loving it.
I want to say more but - i love your videos man. from the editing to the content to the consistency its really just excellent stuff. i hope you have some cool stuff comin up :)
I love your delivery, setting and background music choices. Your channel is gonna blow up man, just takes awhile. Great job, not just on this one.
This is what was inevitable once the hipster factor wore off. Thank you for shouldering this, as no one wants to have to be the harbinger of so so feeling about a product. You did a great service for those on the fence.
Underrated youtube channel sneaking under the radar. Got my sub.
Sometimes I watch your stuff for the content, other times I watch it just because the chilled out vibe puts me in a good place. Either way, I'm always looking forward to watching.
More features and flexibility in a patchable synth with an excellent sequencer and ergonomics can be had for the dollars. For example, a Minibrute 2S can be purchased new for ~$550 on sale. I think the TE thing is made more for TE fans than anything else.
Minibrute 2 and 2s are now on sale for $399 at GC. Blows this away at that price point.
In the mood of what the reviewer said: the module selection and the kind of options available on each module make it VERY difficult to create the kind of sound that distinguishes modular from fixed architecture sinthesizers. You'll be really hard pressed to get something unsual out of those modules, with that selection of functionalities.
Shure: it's not prepatched, buy there's almost an only way to patch it. It does not have sync inputs, it does have almost no utility modules. It does not have a wavefolder.Then if you want to add flexibility you'll end needing to add eurorack modules, but then you'll need a case, power source etc. and end up needing to get the expense you wanted to avoid in order yo have a proper modular workflow.
You are almost stuck with a VCO-FILTER-VCA signal path. And not a particularly flexible one.
Both Neutron and Microbrute II kick this thing's ass in therms of modulation flexibility at the end of the day.
That music, it's amazing. I honestly couldn't even focus on the video, it just sounded awesome.
I think the TE 400 is a great tool for TEACHING modular synthesis without spending multiple thousands of dollars. It was fun to build, the form is cool, it's not very useful if intonation is required, but I've made some badass weird sounds with it. :-) I will use it to teach students the concepts of modular, it can't be beat for that, and is hands-down better than a semi-modular for this.
it's a cool toy. let's put it this way.
quality upload as always
I disagree. I just got one for my kid...only spent 20 mins or so with it, but it's INCREDIBLY powerful.
@@DeathZeroTolerance no one cares about your kid and his little toys
As a middle aged guy just getting into music making seriously you’re an inspiration, love your sign off. Peace to you to my friend.
Sorry to necro-post, but(as I understand the term, I'm pretty new to this) 'modular' simply means you can(and may be required to) wire the parts together however you want. Things like the Moog stuff is semi-modular because it is 'normalled' to a certain path, working without patch cables, but CAN be routed differently if you want.
Love your channel.
Thank you so much Enrique for being one of the few UA-cam reviewers that allows yourself to say the truth instead of prioritizing getting free gear from
brands. I am also a heavy user and collector of synths (60+) and modules (1400+hp) and I own a PO-400 as I do with the rest of the TE instruments. My conclusions were the exact same as yours and no one else got to make them public anywhere before! I look forward to meeting you at Moogfest or SuperBooth if you’re going to either of them.
Edouard, i apprecaite the views and kind comment :) I'l be at Moogfest! Come by and say hey please!
Like he sees it. From the hip. Honesty, thank you. (I like the pocket operator shim levelling the case)
The best review I've seen so far in 2019
I get it, it's the perfect Christmas gift for the kid *you* want to be a doctor.
thank you brother for sharing your thoughts and staying honest :)
Very thoughtful criticism. TE should take note.
Man I love how your videos look.
Love the-no BS video, looking forward more gear reviews from you
Absolutely superb insight Enrique, thank you for a real, honest video x
I’m still pissed at Teenage Engineering for what they pulled with the OP-1. The Metal series POs are great for the money though. Not sure on this yet. Seems cool for price as well but kinda don’t want to give them anymore money after the OP-1 stunt.
What did they pull with the OP-1?
Momizer i don‘t know too :(
id like to know aswell@@SazLowify
@@SazLowify up the price from €1000 to €1400 in the EU (50 percent rise in price in the UK even)
Maybe because it costs more to make?
This is a great video! I love how you strip all the "cool" shit away from this and get to the point, and a LOT of people will appreciate the VERY important piece of advice at the end. Please don't stop ♥️
Good review. I would get a secondhand O Coast, M32, or Neutron. Then be on the lookout for a secondhand Uzues and build a simple wooden case and go from there. Cheaper than 499 too.
damn, then you got this x10
Absolutely gold this review Rick. I feel like it is indeed a little bit too much compromises, when u really analyze it.
I looked up tact in the dictionary. It pointed me at this video. ;)
Spot on. This thing was in my TE bag before it sold out. Which is funny because I think TE definitely set the stage for almost pathological purchasing (fuelled predominately by their products selling out at astounding rates) of which I myself am not immune. With my finger on the trigger I had second thoughts and went back to the speck sheet only to come to the same conclusion you’ve managed to elegantly explain in this vid. Funny thing is (and this is why TE deserve some kind of international marketing award) hours later when the 400 finally became unavailable I felt that “non-buyers” remorse in the pit of my stomach, though it didn’t last long at all. I’m no shill but I love the TE products I do own, the 1, Z, and a few POs, and I’ll rush back there again when the next Z mod-cartridge thingy is available, as I can’t even imagine life without the OP-lab, but can imagine the regret of those who decided to wait but wish they hadn’t, because as we all know the waits can often drag on and on. Anyhow, After reading parts of the manual and watching reviews (mostly positive), my instincts were reinforced, and am glad I was able to resist the dark, almost telekinetic power that the TE marketing team have over my “pay now” finger. That said, I’m not complaining! I like unique products that inspire creativity, accessibility and consequently loyalty. Now here’s where a little sense of irony sets in with the POmod range imo:
When you limit the flow of a product upon release the frenzied buying pattern becomes self-perpetuating (as mentioned above), which is obviously beneficial from a marketing standpoint, and I think anyone would agree that TE have been smart/lucky enough to have these handlebars steering their bike since the training wheels came off a decade ago (with the op-1). This boutique style and image paired with loyal consumers (myself included) also aides them in successfully maintaining unparalleled success with direct-to-consumer retail (something the most successful company on the planet knew was paramount to it’s growth since the it’s conception, and worked hard hard to maintain their independence away from the claws of distro/reseller monopolies. Take a guess which...) , and after all the beans are counted, at the end of the day; marketing, manufacturing, RETAILING your own products effectively and successfully is a surefire way to maximize your profits, while creating a demand. Don’t get me wrong I’m not coming down on TE, quite the contrary, they make cool shit, and good for them if they’ve unearthed a formula that keeps them in control of their distro, while stimulating brand loyalty and an almost OCD demand for their wares. From Canada it always costs me like $100 bucks more to order from their web store, (op-lab = $150 + $12 usd = 217 CAD + $78 duties and taxes and boom! $295 CAD! yes folks that’s why our money is quickly becoming known as the “NORTHERN PESO”) but I don’t think those things have ever been available at any other Canadian retailer, so I just factor that into the cost. I’ve come to accept this “early adopters tax”, and although I’m not stoked that my local currency is the butt of many economists’ jokes, and that the formula used to calculate duties/taxes and handling by UPS seems to be designed to make me walk funny…. The butt-hurt seems to go away the moment I unbox and plug-in, which to me (being fully aware of the rationality) is always worth more than the money, but I digress…. (More like what ever comes 3 steps after digressing… fucksakes ) Anywhoo….
What seems to be occurring (at least with the modular) is the people buying up the majority of the stock are: a) those able to drop 400 bucks without a second thought, who most likely have a ton of other gear and at this price point have no qualms about picking something messing around a little then allowing it to become something interesting to look at on a corner shelf of their dust free, non-smoking hermetically vacuum sealed home studio. B) Those who’ve gotten used to their trigger finger making sure they don’t feel the aforementioned “non-buyers remorse” in the pit of their stomach. B.5) Those who just gotta have everything and experience the same feeling of “NBR”, at the mere thought of not getting their hands on something that will ultimately be desired by peers. C) People who’ll benefit and appreciate the the POmods, and use them to their fullest capacity/potential, and finally D) the trifecta, all of the above. I think C folks are the rarest of the bunch under the current supply/demand climate/regime what ever you call it. consider this scenario:
counted. (was too damn long)
You’ve got a PO-33 and 12, music isn’t your life but playing with these units is super fun and has piqued your interest enough that you wan’t to start making beats and music a little more often. You’ll probably never drop thousands on gear because by some miracle you are somehow immune to “gear-disease” and being what muggles refer to as broke, inevitably single and living in a house that looks like a spoiled-rich-teenagers bedroom even though you’re well into your thirties doesn’t appeal to you for some reason, and you just want to dip your feet in with a little style. You shop around, see the POMods, but can’t get your hands on one, inevitably you reluctantly just go for something else all together, but now, even if it turns out you’re not immune, Roland or Korg become the mother ship, and your Pocket op’s remain toys that you play with less and less. “TOYS” you say!? They aren’t toys!!” Ok let’s face it…. The PO’s are awesome, they’re fun, they can sound really good, but they’re toys! Sophisticatedly bitchin toys… but they are pretty much toys never-the-less. All TE gear is toy-like! It’s obviously a huge part of TE’s design philosophy, it’s a big part of what we love about them and why we find them so inspiring. You can bitch and moan to the contrary but trust me you are wrong! lol. if you want to sit in front of your OP-1 and pretend is a MOOG-ONE that’s fine but you can’t spray water all over the kitchen just because you’re still wearing your fireman’s hat, and even though I applaud your ability to use the power of imagination it’s time to sit down at the table, enjoy a juice-box and some Dino-bites and relax, your toys will still be there after eating some lunch. Hahaha. I can hear the teeth grinding already. I kid of course (the playful obnoxiousness, not the fact itself sowwy Johnny yow-stiw-a-big-boy) . Jesus this has gone way off-point, and I’m reminded why I resist commenting on anything… My point is the POmods are the perfect instrument for someone who wants to learn about synthesis, gift for a musical family member or to dip your feet a little. Hmm the 400 would be pretty sweet to take along in the RV this summer…. I never thought of that…. Shit and I can’t get one. Their existence doesn’t surprise me at all, POs make a perfect percussive accessory to my decidedly meagre modular setup, (just a simple skiff, and another area where I think Mr. Martinez is spot on) so it came as no surprise that TE thought to to accessorize the POs with something of the like, if only for the the fact that integrating some modular into your music making can be super rewarding, and fun as hell! Some people want a one stop shop for peanuts the cost by comparison, don’t want to put in the time to do all the research and comparison reading, etc. They’d rather spend the little free time they have grinding every last drop of sonic potential out of something like the POmods, because above all else they they don’t have 10s of 1000s of $$$ worth of alternatives sitting around that do the same jobs better on virtually every level. Jesus, I guess if you filter out all the bullshit of this comment, it comes down to TE’s marketing/supply cycle, with all the intrigue and desire it’s come to inspire backfires in the case of the POmods, because even though it helps to perpetuate the brands ability to insight a buying frenzy, and consumer-perceived-desirability to an almost “need over want” like level, it keeps them out of the hands of the people who would benefit from them most, leaving the “making, making music assessable to everyone” mission statement a moot point, but In the end I’m happy to see a company like TE grow, and I’m not too cynical to admit that their products have been a source of joy in my own life, but I can’t get one for my nephew for his birthday, or even stumble upon it and pick one up. There are none to be had, and it’s unlikely that I’m going to stalk the TE page waiting in anticipation if I’m this type of consumer, so it’s unlikely that I’ll ever get my hands one…. Te should outsource all the manufacturing and distro of this one product to produce the cheapest PO400-like product they can, to be produced by the millions and placed along-side the lego at specialty high-end toy stores, with an unlimited supply chain, in order to get these (or something similar) into the hands of those who would truly use this type of setup to it’s fullest. Then the utopian vision of music for everyone would be at least a fathomable possibility (ick that was cynical). Or start selling the components separately so I can get some aluminum plate and take up some HP in a more versatile setting. I’d use the shit out up a rack mountable, punch-in effect module, or even just some osc’s that are designed to play well with my op-Z, even if I had to rig up the interface / faceplate myself… I guess I could have just said that to begin with…. What I really want to know is if those yellow aviators actually have a “THEY LIVE” like function to them!?
Oh and I’d also agree with you Ricky that this appears like more of a semi-modulal system, but I believe, and correct me if I’m wrong it requires at least one patch to make a sound, where I think “semi-modular” by definition has un-patched functionality that can be expanded upon or otherwise altered by using patch points. I almost want to call this something like a “prefab modular”, because the panel is labeled and it’s design is meant to be finite. But I’m pretty much talking out my ass anyway and assume nobody read this far, in fact I didn’t read one comment before writing this kinda makes me an asshole of some kind I think, but I usually only read and never post so I’ll read right after pressing the button for once. …. Either way your contribution as a tuber is appreciated, your vids and demeanour are always super chill, and well produced, from the cutaways to the bg mix, so kudos! The zen-like vibe I think you’re going for is consistently well executed and make informative, but honest easy viewing without all the hype. I suppose talk is cheap though, but at this point it’s all I can provide. That said it is cheap but there’s a lot of it... eh? Lol Peace
Cheers for the support honest review, kinda what i already had in mind.
Love this guy! Mello, honest and an all round laid back dude :)
Thank you! 🙏
If youre a beginner looking at one of these, id recommend a Behringer Neutron. way more features for a much lower price
actually.....i wouldn't. the neutron is cheap but is not really a beginner synth. I'd rather advise the microbrute or something similar.
Great, great review! Informative, detailed, and with the right amount of personal considerations on pros and cons. Big up!
I don’t get this at all. For the same price you could get a M32 which is a kickass semi-modular with a really great and flexible sequencer and super sturdy.
Precisely!
yeah or a used Minibrute 2S for like $525-550.
About the speaker, I own an EMS VCS3 which is some kind of "shitty" speakers despite the thing beeing legendary. Buchla Easel has some too. Sometimes I just want to put an SM58 in front of it to get that AM radio sound and it is good for quick work or just easy sound tweaking without having to plug and turn everything on. I made some cool effects with a mic in the room and playing something and recording the natural reverb also, kind of like amping the synth. I think it is also a taste/esthetic thing, like how does a "shitty" spring reverb compare to a processor capable of so many things, and yet, the built in spring reverb of the synthesizers is a sonic landmark in the 60/70's synth odyssey. Grandmother was right about that.
I really wanted Teenage Engineering to get into Eurorack but this is the exact opposite of what I had in mind. I wanted them to make modules, little crazy Eurorack Pocket Operators, not a limited semi-modular that is aimed at hipsters who want to dip their toe in the water of Eurorack. Oh well, hopefully down the road they will make some creative modules that can be put into our existing racks.
Ethan Vosburgh yeah this is disappointing. I can’t see this selling well.
9:22 perfect explanation. It's a totally different process, exploring sound and not about using a daw in a traditional way.
I'm really glad I discovered ae modular before i almost bought one of these. Although maybe in the future it would be cool to have one as sort of a "coffee table" modular synth that people can play with when I have them over.
wwindowlicker808 honestly thats what i picture it as. More of a conversation piece, or like something to mess around with, not a serious music device
Always come to your channel for frank observations, subscribed.
I appreciate you Assad, thank you!
I just got one on second hand market for 170$, i really believe that it is a banger for this price. Maybe to be considered as a recreation of 70s semi modular spirit, AKS stuff. It does not have midi or usb but you can bleep. I will go further with a Keystep pro
It doesn't fit with my Eurorack system, but i bought one for my 10yo son. Great introductory tool for a young person to learn many basic synth principles.
same plan. now have volcas for that
Excellent review, honest and enlightening :)
I totally agree with you if you take a stand-alone point of view, however, if plug it to an external sequencer this product is completely different, I sequence it with an Op-z.
A great concept in building your own Modular Synthesizer so hats off to Teenage Engineering for allow this to be done, however would it be more worthwhile to purchase a Behringer 2600 ?
absolutely the fuck not lmao
Volca modular has CV input and gate in and out, syncs well with the volca mix
Check my channel for some radical jams with the volca modular you can get absolutely sick stuff like the sound of dinosaurs trying to eat each other
@@brianwredfern This would be a grave setback for the coolness factor of dinosaurs.
Great honest review, thanks!
I thought semi-modular meant that it had a normalled signal path, ie you can play it without any patch cables, but it includes patch points for altering the signal path.
So fully modular would just mean it needs patching to get any sound, no normalled path. I think some old 70s systems weren't mix-n-match, but the semi-modular concept is kind of new
not reaaly knew: the Korg MS-10/20 of 1978 are semi-modular, like the even older ARP 2600, to name a few...
you can build it the otherway around, so it stands better in place. you can see that here in this Video "Pocket Operator Modular 400 Sound Explore".
I just bought one and it’s a head scratcher for sure
At times I wonder if I wasted my money
Then again for what I paid for it brand new is cheaper than any modular out there so I say that alone makes it a good deal at $290 off the TE webpage
Honestly Ricky said it best “compromised everything but sound”
They do only give you 15 cables and that’s not nearly enough to do anything fun
What makes it a head scratcher then? It's often not enough to do modular it needs to be connected with more modules
Your opinion was appeciated, thanks Enrique.
Would love to see a follow up video of you just doing a quick jam on this ba-boy
great sound+mix in this vid, nice work
Great honest review, thanks! It's funny, I wanted the POMS 400, but since it was sold out I had enough time to convince myself that a proper Eurorack system makes more sense. Well, "sense".
Very informative. I'm definitely curious about this thing and after watching I know where to place it on my priorities list!
Thanks for being honest m'man! I personally don't like the way it sounds and have been really surprised by people acting like this thing is a god-send. I love TE and love their products, but this thing is a no-way-jose for me. For the sameish price you can get (as you said) and XD and that thing is way too much fun. Sounds epic too. I love my XD.
You've just confirmed my opinion on this after watching many other reviewers drooling over it... It's cool, it's novel, it's unique, but it's not super capable and in fact quite limited in what it can do. I have a lot of sub-$500 noise toys, and I love Teenage Engineering's stuff in general, but I'm taking a hard pass on this one. I feel like one could spend the $400 on a Monotron, a Volca and a PO-33 and get a lot more output variety & still have cash left over. Sure, that wouldn't be analog modular in the strictest sense, but still... Anyway, great video, as usual Mr. Martinez. Glad you're out there doing what you do.
If you want to dip into Eurorack, try a case with a bunch of Ladik or Doepfer modules. For $499 you can buy a basic 104 hp case and several modules to experiment with and have some room to grow.
We appreciate you too, man. Keep up the great work! :-)
Justin, thank you for the kind comment and views :)
Maria Theresa yellow or gold (named after the empress), a color that lots of stucco on older buildings have in the former Austro-Hungarian empire countries. A very pleasing color to my eye.
Really good review. Nice and honest and definitely worth watching all the way through. I'd love to see you do a review of the Bugbrand Synthvoice.
pfft, thats some serious money though haha
Waiting for this in the post I grabbed for £250. Seems like a good gateway into modular synths.
good review. i think teenage should do a collaborate with Ableton and create a synth to work with Live. I think you spot on with the audience they were shooting for, but as you said they fell short on that. If they made a cheap euro rack that was aimed at a home studio producer that only has "in the box" equipment so far, but their looking to branch out and add some analog hardware to their setup, a collaboration with a specific DAW would kill it out of the box being immediately functional to the user.
This will look a lot nicer on your coffee table or shelf than any other semi modular+speaker.
Super awesome and helpful review!
Great review! Yet I find this is really intriguing. From a design perspective I believe some concepts clash here. First, if it is inspired on modulars why isn't it modular? Why Teenage doesn't sell other Operator modules? Why aren't they detachable for instance? I don't believe this approach would be an issue to the "Pocket" concept. Of course there might be hardware limitations that I'm not aware about.
They could develop a "TeRack" that would serve as the basic ground for attaching Operator modules. So you buy your POM400 and choose the amount of modules you want. Of course, you'll need a minimum to have an operating synth. You could attach an OP1 for example (through USB via another module) and use it to post-process or as an storage device. You could get a MIDI module (or with more useful outputs), use it, and later reattach another module for instance.
This is all valid if we follow the modular concept though.
If we put modularity aside, and consider the form and respective functions present here, this ends up to be a product "based" on the modular theme. A product on its own, borrowing the story and aesthetics of the modular synthesis, but cutting away some of its most interesting features. Is it a problem? No, just a different approach. Is it beautiful and functional? Yes, on its own hermetic concept.
No sir, YOU are awesome! :) Seriously, thanks for an honest, insightful review of this.
It describes the bigger picture for me to a T - I am a player and want to mess with sound only as far as finding a great patch to make music with. Thus, modular doesn't appeal to me for that reason, as well as having to limited funds to invest.
These things are a disgrace to the integrity of Teenage Engineering. Brutal but absolutely true. It makes you wary of trusting them off the bat...which is what they had built a name for.
eurorack has always felt like sculpting to me more than traditional musical composition and I personally really enjoy that.
Hey Ricky. What's your take on Erica synth Pico system 3?
really nice honest review, thank you
2:28 "They pop right off if you need them to..." ... backtrack winds down. 😂
Thank you very much for the honest review.
I had mine for a few months but ended up selling it for some of the reasons you listed. The big thing for me at the end of the day was the amount of work I had to put in to get sounds I liked was just too much.
The ratio of input-to-output didn't add up like it does for TE's other products, like the smaller PO series, OP-1, or OP-Z. I also had issues with the power supply setup they originally shipped with, but that's apparently been fixed in later releases.
I loved the look of it and the pricepoint, but it just didn't land for me sadly.
Thank you for your sincerity !
AE Modular! Seriously, this TE thing is just a hypemachine... You should really check out tangible waves for their AE Modular, which is SUPER cheap and still flexible and extendable.
I think AE Modular is probably a much better choice for a budget modular system. IMO, *that's* the deal you can't beat with modular.
Seems like it’s cashing in on the people who are excited by the word modular but don’t want to put the effort in to understanding cases, modules, etc. that you need to get started. Which is fine, but I mean I just can’t see this growing with someone. Seems like they would get into it then go euro (if they liked it) or get out of modular (if they hated it)
The beauty of eurorack is that you can build your very own rack and this process is super important and fun. I kind of don't understand why they didn't just do a proper innovative eurorack module.
You can actually reset the sequencer by putting a sequencer control
to maximum, which is really great when using the square Osc/LFO as reset gates for strange timings.
Edit: I would also state I think you’re overlooking the battery operation/relative portability. The built in speaker allows remote jams which wouldn’t be possible otherwise w/o other external stuff.
Nah I get that aspect of it. But I’d rather use headphones out and about. And in that perspective it’s cool. But I was hoping more for something I can bring into the studio and make with other things :) really good points though!
Enrique Martinez Music I pair it with my OP-1, so that gives me effects/headphones while still portable. Don’t know if the OP-Z can take external input the same way - but that’s much smaller.
Thank you for the fair expertise.
Most of points you make are pretty much applicable to OP-1. Decent sound with basic sequencing and poor connectivity. Makes me think that's just the way TE aproach design.
Agreed. And that's coming from someone who has an OP-1 and likes it. It's handy for sketching out songs and filling gaps in a studio, but it also has some pretty serious drawbacks. And after creating the OP-1, it seems like Teenage Engineering leaned into their flaws more than their strengths, so their newer designs have kinda gone downhill.
Get where you’re coming from, but the main benefit of the OP-1 is its size and portability (long battery life etc). This doesn’t have that. I love my OP-1 but I’m gonna pass on this.
Midi in in the OP-1 gives it a lot of flexibility for me. I can sequence it from a DAW and record myself doing automations live. Or I can hook it up to a bigger midi controller with bigger, semi weighted keys and record audio from that. And ofc its biggest appeal for me is that I can record full songs directly in the box, although these are admittedly pretty lofi songs
have you thought about mounting it to your plywood bench with bolts, nuts and washers?
as far as form, Im sure TE made these along with all the other pocket operations for those who like to make modified set ups with. and by "modified" i mean, soldering wire to other wire and what not. maybe if this was modified into another case, or another form. they just throw the yellow casing in for a demo. example, the po33 ko (along with the other one im assuming) have contacts exposed at the bottom. TE wants you to build your own controller for i thought when i first saw that.
"god gives us nuts, but he does not crack them"
seem like a hint to something better. TE being the gods, us being the nutcrackers.
thats just what i think
I like the POs but I feel like they are toys or fidgets more than they are practical instruments. And at the price point of the POs, that’s fine. I bought a couple for my son and we enjoy playing with them. This seems like it’s cut from the same cloth: a toy semi modular with limited functionality, but at a price point where it has to compete with things like Neutron, Mother 32, Minibrute 2, which are *much* more functional instruments.
Shoo mang, orange cords and black whips man. Flows like water down the alley way. Hey man, dont stop just because it wont start. There is chicken on floor cooked real nice.
Bust them chops up playa. U da man
1:31 think it was meant to be the other way around / check Cuckoo's video :)
I did. I just followed the instructions that it came with lol. My main concern about the other way is the metal is sitting on the ground or table, vs this way it has rubber feet you install in orderlies holes
It confirms my suspicions, really. I'm trying to NOT get a modular, because it's really too expensive, so of course this looked interesting, but this confirms that it's not the starter I want.
Thank you so much for this.
Definitely finicky! I'd say it's good for teenagers learning modular synthesizer. Definitely not a one hour track tool. I'd say it's a great sketch pad or insta idea for larger creativity