The Yamaha AN1x Synthesizer mailing list

I love old synthesizers. I remember visiting the University of New 
Hampshire's electronic music lab,and tweaking the sequencer on their 
old modular Buchla system. Still, back then, only universities and 
rock stars could afford both the modular system and the technicians 
to keep the module running. Now we have digital models of 
synthesizers but are they as good as the old systems? They're 
actually better.

First, the knobs are in a better place. Knobs on a rack invite sore 
wrists. Second, the digital synths stay in tune (if you like the old 
analog drift you can program it easily enough in the free EG. I 
usually give the fine tuning a drift of around 1-4.). Finally, the 
digital synths are easier to use. Patch memory is a wonderful thing.
I dialed up a Kraftwerk Kling Klang rhythm in minutes using the 
Spinal Tap method of programming. I turned the FM modulation way up, 
turned up the noise, set the distortion to stun, ran a free EG on the 
filters and the noise and set the arpeggiator on robot. Now I can get 
that sound with a push of a button. No knob turning, no repatching, 
no consulting hastily sketched diagrams.

Yes, but what about the flexibility and programming? How many people 
have mastered every aspect of the AN1X? How much flexibility do you 
need? With the free EG and the computer editing, the AN1X might be 
more flexible than a modular system. 

Finally, what about the sound? This is a matter of individual taste. 
Synthesizers varied from unit to unit, model to model, and brand to 
brand. My band has used the AN1X and ancient tapes of an old ARP and 
in the mix, I can't hear the difference. By the way, my friend sold 
his ARP and his entire tape based system and now uses Cool Edit Pro 
and some plug ins. 

Progress is great. I want more. I want an analog modelling synth with 
a space for more voice cards so I can put in my PPG Wave synth, my LA 
synth, my FM synth, my Vox Continental, and my Mellotron. You can do 
this on a laptop. I want it in a keyboard.

Rainbow Jimmy
http://www.spaceanmals.com
http://www.mp3.com/spaceanimals