[sdiy] new stuff (was Moogey jitter)

[elmacaco]

I program my k5000 still, although not as much as I used too.

The problem with it is familiarity doesn't really make programming it any
faster, defining 64 envelopes still takes a while, even if you know what you
want.

>
> Maybe it's because they are lacking the proper user interface?
> Personally, I'd for instance rather use a Korg Polysix than the
> Poly61.
>
> Although I'm not sure how a proper user interface for a digital synth
> should look like -- citing DX7 again, there was the Jellinghaus
> programmer. Far away from being a commercial success.
>
> Rainer

I think the UI thing is a key part of it, but also those synthesis methods
require the defining of many parameters before you get a decent change in
sound.  Even with good knowledge of the synth they clearly divide into
programming and playing, where as with most analog or simpler synths you can
play and program quickly and easily.  The FM7 has a simplified interface
available as well, but I think for most people understanding that a
different osc wave gives a certain character, and that the filter does what
it does is easy to grasp and you can hear the full range of it by twisting
some knobs, but having parameters change depending on what algorhythm you
are using and envelopes to vary tonal structure require a bit too much
planning ahead before you hear the result to get average joe people
synthesizing.

I think FM with knobs could work, but it helps if it is integrated into a
cohesive whole as an instrument.  The DSI Poly Evolver Keyboard has a really
nice balance of that imo.   The problem is that many instruments provide
complexity but the act of using the complexity is time consuming and not
very rewarding.  The result is an instrument that only a few can get sounds
that rival the presets, and so discourages synthesis.  Where as memoryless
monosynths kind of throw you in the water to program your own sounds, and
things like the Prophet 5 invite even no technical types to dabble a bit in
the synthesis.