my god! i regret not have bought one when i had the opportunity, instead i've opted for other synths, with some i'm satisfied , some others so and so , but the evolver is ace! what a character, i like very much the presets, now i will have to wait for get one...so impatiently
I'm thinking of buying the DSI Mono Evolver , without the keyboard. is the only difference the keyboard and layout, or can you make better sounds using the keyboard version? thanks
hello evolver fans. as a novice synth tweaker i found myself pretty limited in my ability to master evolver synthesis. i had a lot of fun adjusting presets but i quickly realized i didn't really know what i was doing. i read about sound synthesis and became familiar with the terms and techniques but i couldn't find a good hands on tutorial. a few months ago i found Anu Kirk's The Difinitive Guide to Evolver. if you feel limited and frustrated you should read this. peace
+1. the CS synths have a huge sound. i've had two CS-10s and the basses and leads coming from the CS-10 were way bigger than those of my micromoog, no doubt. and they fit better in the mix too
I am not that familiar with the poly evolver. I messed around a couple times with a floor model at guitar center but it was pretty ratty. three of the knobs had been stolen by customers and some of the presets were destroyed by people overwriting them. The keyboard room is basically a daycare center as dad shops for guitars the kids trigger hip hop loops on the fantoms and motifs.
Only get the Phatty if you're an analog purist like me. To tell you the truth though, this is probably a better synth. I had a LP at my disposal for a few months and I wasn't terribly impressed. It was still really good, but it took a lot of tweaking to get a desired sound and lacked parameters that it needed to have. The Voyager IS the shit though, no arguing about that one.
Ok. Shut up already. We all have our favorites. I have this blue badass and I love it as much as I love my Waldorf Blofeld and my Microkorg. All different, all good.
It's a decent synthesizer for its price. I've shown my ass to mine many times and it has never tried to suck it. Not even with the goose-neck microphone. ;)
It wasn't really a Moog though. At that time, Moog was bought by another company and they sold that keyboard at Radioshack. Bob Moog bought the rights back years later and began making the quality Moog's that we all know.
It's got 2 real analog oscillators and 2 digital oscillators. The filter's real analog. So it's not really "virtual" but rather a mix between analog and digital signal processing.
Ever heard of the Polymoog or MemoryMoog? Dave Smith and Moog are both good at what they do. I'm sick and tired of noobs hating on mono and saying shit like"oh it only plays one note, that sucks." Well, if you want that nasty bass, you won't find it on many poly boards. School yourself
Bob Moog said that because he was being PAYED to. He got residuals from them using the name so it was in his best interest to say so. He knew anyone who was in line to buy his synths wouldn't be swayed by any soft synth of any kind because his customer base was musicians looking for professional equipment. Keep using that midi though, if you can't tell the difference then i'm sure you have a long illustrious career in music (insert laugh here).
That comment you removed wasn't directed at you Analogger. I replied to some guy who said mono sucks and was only good for leads. I said HE wasn't a synth player obviously, not you man. You have your comments set to show newest posts so it won't properly show comment replies.
That is Aaron Copeland's "Fanfare for the Common Man." Do a search on Youtube and you'll find a great version by the New York Philharmonic, another on the Washington Cathedral Pipe Organ, and of course, the well known ELP rendition.
Both have the Curtis low pass filter, but the MonoEvolver is a digital/ analog hybrid whereas the Mopho is 100% analog. The MonoEvolver does give you more as far as features, but I love the Mopho's crushing analog bass.
I'm not that familiar with the Mofo - just what I've seen on Youtube. It appears to be a badass little unit. The sequencer in the MEK is phenomenal. But I think a closer comparison would be the desktop Evolver and the Mofo. The desktop still has all the featrues of the MEK - just fewer knobs and no keyboard. It's hard to tell from Youtube sound quality, but the Evolver has a more digital texture to it compared to the Mofo or Little Phatty. Ideally you would want all three!
Does the Temptation even have line out? You wouldn't be able to do anything if it doesn't, unless of course you rip it open and do some mod work. I would just suggest getting an actual synth that has the parameters you're looking for.
Your myspace page is great. Really cool music. I will be sure to add you the next time I am signed in on my own computer.
As for the Mopho, I just recently came across it and it sounds great, I really want one! But I already own an Evolver. :) I admit it: I'm a Dave Smith whore. He makes awesome stuff.
I REALLY want the LinnDrum II but that probably won't be out until Q3 of this year.
get both! but - I have not yet used the mopho. and, the evolver is packed with options for sound creation/destruction. I would go with the evolver first.
I just bought my first DSI - a desktop evolver :) Dave SMith's synths are as close as you can get to a Moog without actually getting a Moog, modern Moogs may have tuning stability but the sound is no better than DSI's stuff.
Modern components are rubbish! But DSI pulls it off very well, then man is a genius!
Your insane, every single Moog product is a masterpiece. I have been to the factory and played every instrument/effect box they had at the time(no moog guitar sadly). The craftsmanship is stellar and the sound is absolutely amazing. I own both a DSI Prophet 08 and a Moog Little Phatty and I can tell you that the Moog has superior build quality over the Prophet. The Moog bass sound has been copied more than the 808 bass drum. It's not an accident that they are the most legendary name in synths.
yeah the knobs on the dsi stuff feels kinda cheap but the prophet at least feels a little sturdier than the evolvers plastic knobs. the moog ones feel like a tank.
C'mon, every Moog product is *NOT* a masterpiece. The Micromoog and Multimoog are pretty buzzy, the Opus 3 isn't so hot either, and the Polymoog was a nightmare.
MPrint666 -> typical american defending an american company to the hilt! Moog is wayyyy overrated, considering you pay atleast 1395 for one damn note of monophony!
no matter how creamy the filters are or how PHAT the oscillators are, i don't give a damn...in a mix it doesn't become that audible anyway...
many plug ins like the korg's MS20 legacy sound like hardware in a mix.
if i want to get a poly analog, it will be dave smith stuff... andromeda has more features, but i don't like its sound
Not typical American, typical synth-head who likes synths, domestic or foreign. Crumar and Doepfer happen to be some of my favs. Don't act like u know me. You pay for sound not how many notes it can play. A Radioshack keyboard is polyphonic, would you take that over a Moog?
No I'm not a Moog fanboy, my main keyboard is a Prophet 08 for your information. Also if you think soft-synths sound as good as hardware than you might want to quit because you don't have the ear for this type of thing.
Not true though. There are a lot of decent analog clones of the minimoog that use the same type of chips and similar filters. Dave's stuff has the reproduction Curtis Low pass filters that have their own unique sound.
i wish i could get both moog and dsi, but the fact is im not rich, and dont have the luxury that others have. if i have to choose based on most for ones little money, i would say the dsi is the best deal. if one could only afford ONE synth because of financial reality. I wish i were rich, but im not.
Personally I think the MEK is the better deal because of its sequencer and massive programming options. The Moog sounds fat as hell, though. If cost is the major concern then you should consider getting the desktop Evolver. $500 buys you a lot of synth.
why the -2? this guy had a point, I agree. the little phatty definitely has a different sound, much fatter. this sounds very digital, which isn't bad, it just has different character. depends what you use if for anyway,
My point exactly...I don't mind the minus two. Synth fanboys are the worst sort of fanboys...I'm one of them. I'm just a Moog fanboy though. I do like the Waldorf synths, though. They're a bit fatter, though it's the same basic technology DSI uses. Depends on personal tastes and the kind of sound you're going for. I also have a Farfisa 611-R. If you want weak sound....^_^
yeah, the main thing detering me from this is its mono, for cheaper I could just buy the desktop evolver and a microkorg, is the keyboard, wheels and extra knobs the only thing extra on this one, or are there other features the desktop version doesnt have?
You sure can - I have assigned my Midiman controller to do all that. It sits right below the Evolver - I had to consciously keep myself from using it during this demonstration in order to tweak the Evolver's knobs.
well, it might sound so analog because it is analog? 2 of the 4 Oscillators are analog DCOs and the Filtersection consists of an analog curtis-chip. Only the Effectsection and two Oscillators are Digital.
its true analog. nothing virtual. two vcos, vcfs and vcas. there is a digital delay and two additional oscillators with digital waves from the prophet vs. the only virtual thing about this synth is that it is virtually impossible to get a bad sound out of it. even the most rude textures have their own beauty
the sequencer is one of the key sound generating elements in the Evolver. Its is also great for applying rhythmic filter/distortion effects on your guitar, etc, when you use the external input. Also, it sends the info thru the midi out so you can use the sequencer on other midi instruments as well.
Yes, there is an arpeggiator. It has the usual functions - nothing fancy. It has the "latch" mode where every note you hit becomes part of the arpeggiation and keeps repeating after you hit a key. The arpeggiator is a hidden function - but the manual explains how to easily get into it. Perhaps I should post a brief arp demo.
the rack has far fewer knobs...im looking for live worthy, do i need to go with the MEK? i almost feel like if im gonna spend 1300, i might as well save for a PEK on ebay for possibly 1800-2000...or is the ME mod up to the task?
You can get the MEK for around $1000 retail and, of course cheaper on Ebay. The PEK is wicked - on both units I feel the "knobs" are essential. I would suggest going with a keyboard version of either.
In the site of Dave Smith Instruments there are the four factory banks downloadable in the download area. To which bank belongs these sounds? Did you start from the sound number 1 of the bank?
Yes...I started from Bank-1 patch-1. my first patch in bank #1 is called Evolver Showcase. I played a Poly Evolver keyboard at the Guitar Center and it had a whole bunch of different patches - some were really awesome, even when playing one note. I also heard that depending on when each Evolver was made, there might be some different sounds in each one. I imagine the MEK has some different stuff than the desktop and vice versa. That's just what I'm guessing.
on the dave smith website is says they made a special "mostly analog" bank that shows off the evolver's abillity to make analog sounds, which can be downloaded from this site. i wonder what this bank has to offer
i'm still waiting for it. it will take about 2 - 3 weeks till it comes to israel. anyway, i was initially trying so hard to decide wether i should get the PEK or the P08, and i think i could do with one evolver voice and gain 8 prophet voices for an addition of 125$ (they gave me a 175$ discount at novamusik for buying both of them together).
what are your considerations? i'm asking because i have pros and cons for each possibility. why in your opinion, for example, not combine a MEK with a virus ti snow? or, if the evolver voice is so wicked (i know it is) why not have four voices of it? i'll be happy to hear your thoughts on this matter.
MEK + Blofeld gives you the widest range of sounds. Virus TI Snow need a computer and I want to be able to write full songs without touching my computer if I choose to do so.
I did own Virus TI Polar, but I sold it because I didn't really like it's sound that much. This is why I personally can't recommend the Virus wholeheartedly. It's sound might be perfect for your uses though. Try it out and see if it fits you.
2nd choice, because it gives you the widest range of tones. VA/Wavetables from the Blofeld, analog/wavetable/analog filtering from the MEK.
MEK and Virus Snow is a good choice as well, especially if computer is center of your studio. The Snow has the VA, wavetables, granular, and formant stuff from the Virus TI. I don't know how much the Snows are going to sell for though.
This synth is a dream come true... but it seems to me that in order to tame the beast, one will need to get the keyboard version instead of the desktop module one. Would you say that this is true?
The layout of the little one looks really complicated, and the layout of the keyboard looks like heaven, although there is a serious increase in price which makes it a bit out of my reach...
The layout is my only doubt so far in getting the small one (I'd better start saving).
For me, the keyboard version was the way to go. Because there are so many parmeters and possible modulation routings the more actual knobs you have, the better. Still, its amazing all the stuff they packed in the little desktop model.
The layout of the desktop one looks really complicated, but when you get in to it its absolutely perfect. And you realize that its not that complicated afterall, its just very smart.
You get a full overview of the parameters just by looking at the synth, no need for fiddeling around in menues. And after a while editing gets really fast. Ive had the desktop version for about a year now and I love it more for each passing day! :)
Let me know how you like the cp-251...that is something I would like to get. Have you heard of the new Moog pedal that works as a four channel expression/midi-to-cv converter?
No outboard - just the efx in the MEK. It has three separate delays, along with distortion, ring modulation, FM, and an effect called "feedback" which lets you adjust frequency and amount.
from what I can hear, the LP has that beautiful "Moog" sound. I think its built like a tank, as well. Check out the LP demos from Jordan Rudess. I would love to have both...but right now I'm more into electronic/experimental/noise stuff and the MEK absolutely kicks as in that department. I think for bass the LP would probably rule. The sequencer on the MEK puts it in a category all its own. The MEK problably has more features, but the LP has "that sound." Hope that helps!
It does. I used to have the Evolver rack. I miss its dirt and flexibility. I currently have the LP and I feel like its really limited to "that" sound and not that much beyond that.
Do you feel you can get some chunky and full bass sounds from the MEK?
This is a great unite i have one but i find with the digital Oscillators get trashy as the frequency gets hight in octives. but other than that in one of the best unite i've got other than my newer POLY EVOLVER a much better unite
This is a great unite i have one but i find with the digital Oscillators get trashy as the frequency gets hight in octives. but other than that in one of the best unite i've got other than my newer POLY EVOLVER a much better unite
Honestly I was very surprised. It sounds 'phat' and lush. Very similar to Prophet T8 and my OB8. The stereo panning effects and layering capability are totally cool. That really makes it for me. I doubt you'd be disappointed with one. It's definitely got character and doesn't sound phony like a wannabee imitation it's the real deal. I like the overall tone much more than the Andromeda. It's got the Prophet sound..
can i polychain the mono evolver with the tetra?
velliosant 1 month ago
my god! i regret not have bought one when i had the opportunity, instead i've opted for other synths, with some i'm satisfied , some others so and so , but the evolver is ace! what a character, i like very much the presets, now i will have to wait for get one...so impatiently
darkfaerytales 1 month ago
I like the part where he plays the keys!
damondarkwalker 2 months ago
Please never play the Close Encounters theme ever again
drumsdrumdrumdrum 8 months ago
lovely.... just lovely! Im inspired, im getting one..... thanx for the video!!
sokoleski 9 months ago
I just bought one for 750.00 on ebay.. I bought it for the sequencer and this video motivated me to get one. I've always wanted one.
mpresev 10 months ago
I'm thinking of buying the DSI Mono Evolver , without the keyboard. is the only difference the keyboard and layout, or can you make better sounds using the keyboard version? thanks
cazmo222 10 months ago
Hi ...what do you think ...might this be a good combination with the Prophet 08 PE?..
guitarharpsichord 11 months ago
1:10.... a monster! Amazing piece of machinery!!!
zeppelo 1 year ago
That CS-80 lead at 0:58 basically sold me on this synth. Great demo, man!
Bohemian132 1 year ago
Great demo, is it possible to use both the 2 analog and 2 digital oscillators at the same time?
9JohnSmith9 1 year ago
Beautiful beast! the presets in this keyboard are the same on Evolver Desktop?
Thanks!
remixerone 1 year ago
mine is for sale..email me..i'm in montreal
goerge4 1 year ago
@goerge4 Still for sale?
jpmartineau 1 year ago
@jpmartineau sorry...it's sold... but it is an excellent synth.. i just am not a keyboard
player at all...
goerge4 1 year ago
hello evolver fans. as a novice synth tweaker i found myself pretty limited in my ability to master evolver synthesis. i had a lot of fun adjusting presets but i quickly realized i didn't really know what i was doing. i read about sound synthesis and became familiar with the terms and techniques but i couldn't find a good hands on tutorial. a few months ago i found Anu Kirk's The Difinitive Guide to Evolver. if you feel limited and frustrated you should read this. peace
yardlove 1 year ago
:50-:58 seconds sounds like the dream sequences in the movie happy gilmore. haha!!
blacktiekiller 1 year ago
From 8:40 it sounds a bit like Spore.:P
TimeEliminator 1 year ago
Is there a VSTi version of this one ?
GreyZone7 1 year ago
5:10 =D
simon4tw 1 year ago 3
@simon4tw
Someone copied this demo and put it on another video as well
bjcsupertortoise 1 year ago
Nice! 5:10 Sweet dreams .. ..
RighteousFool 1 year ago
@RighteousFool Ya, sweet dreams really blew my mind...
audibleobsession 1 year ago
how much polyphony does it have?
djomercohen 1 year ago
Polyphony is most likely 1 since it's monophonic.
djilyaz 1 year ago
right, i didnt notice the mono in the title
djomercohen 1 year ago
forget the fatty, get a yamaha CS series synth, WAAAAAAY fatter
ColaberMilk 2 years ago
+1. the CS synths have a huge sound. i've had two CS-10s and the basses and leads coming from the CS-10 were way bigger than those of my micromoog, no doubt. and they fit better in the mix too
sampleandhold 2 years ago
great...clear ...demo wil have a evolver in jan
yes
only the tabletop version no less !
rondroyd 2 years ago
:49 reminds me of the sequence in a song from Trauma Center!
CDEFoxtrot 2 years ago
They are different... evolver is really flexibile and Little Phatty is a Moog :D
PimpMyFahrrad 2 years ago
sounds awesum ! .. great for drum & bass around the c1 c2 range !
LentejOfficial 2 years ago
Sweet Dreams blew me away!!!
audibleobsession 2 years ago
Close Encounters of the Third Kind :-)))
i love the mono evolver
SwimmingLightes 2 years ago
are these presets with the poly evolver too? I found a used poly evolver and its my first and I am blown away....but really confused at times
Lemure333 2 years ago
I am not that familiar with the poly evolver. I messed around a couple times with a floor model at guitar center but it was pretty ratty. three of the knobs had been stolen by customers and some of the presets were destroyed by people overwriting them. The keyboard room is basically a daycare center as dad shops for guitars the kids trigger hip hop loops on the fantoms and motifs.
Analogger 2 years ago 5
That last sentance made me lol!
Tek1077 2 years ago
@Analogger
wow that is sad
that post seriouslys made me sad :(
gr8ape 1 year ago
This thing sounds freakin amazing! I've always been a fan of Moog.., but I'd take this over the Phatty any day of the week and twice on Sunday.
squeakD 2 years ago 2
This synth sounds way better than on the vid^^
(its because of the compression of the vid i think)
01Mai1983 2 years ago
can the arpeggiator send midi out?
EddieMarsDisco 2 years ago
Does it have on-board effects? I play through a Motion Sound amp that has no effects and I'd like to keep the setup simple.
gareebee 2 years ago
Only get the Phatty if you're an analog purist like me. To tell you the truth though, this is probably a better synth. I had a LP at my disposal for a few months and I wasn't terribly impressed. It was still really good, but it took a lot of tweaking to get a desired sound and lacked parameters that it needed to have. The Voyager IS the shit though, no arguing about that one.
MPrint666 2 years ago
Ok. Shut up already. We all have our favorites. I have this blue badass and I love it as much as I love my Waldorf Blofeld and my Microkorg. All different, all good.
mrtvi46 2 years ago
Yeah microkorg is different in the respect that it sucks ass.
MPrint666 2 years ago
The MicroKorg is only a child's toy compared to this great synth.
Cable3999 2 years ago 3
So true
MPrint666 2 years ago 2
It's a decent synthesizer for its price. I've shown my ass to mine many times and it has never tried to suck it. Not even with the goose-neck microphone. ;)
mrtvi46 2 years ago
its all how you use them , different tools for different jobs...enjoy your work and play
Lemure333 2 years ago
Exactly. And you too! :)
mrtvi46 2 years ago
Nice fat sound.
Microsloth 2 years ago
The Moog Realistic was definitely not a masterpiece!
THEDEFOCATOR 2 years ago
It wasn't really a Moog though. At that time, Moog was bought by another company and they sold that keyboard at Radioshack. Bob Moog bought the rights back years later and began making the quality Moog's that we all know.
MPrint666 2 years ago
forget about software synthesizers, this thing can do it all!
mindphlux 2 years ago 8
sounds beautiful
zzzxtreme 2 years ago 8
It's got 2 real analog oscillators and 2 digital oscillators. The filter's real analog. So it's not really "virtual" but rather a mix between analog and digital signal processing.
emdotambient 2 years ago 3
is this analog or virtual analog?
mpresev 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
mpresev, dave smith making crappy virtual analog like the virus? lol...only germans can make that crappy digital sound.
dave smith is a true american pioneer....and better than moog, because dave makes polyphonic stuff.
lavakava 2 years ago
Ever heard of the Polymoog or MemoryMoog? Dave Smith and Moog are both good at what they do. I'm sick and tired of noobs hating on mono and saying shit like"oh it only plays one note, that sucks." Well, if you want that nasty bass, you won't find it on many poly boards. School yourself
MPrint666 2 years ago
you are just an elitist. i can get some great fat bass sounds from cubase's vb1 (now obsolete plugin).
moog's bass is way way overrated. i am sure it will sound good on its own, but in a mix who cares?
arturia's analog factory is what moog should have been! even bob moog said the arturia's minimoog v is stellar lol!
lavakava 2 years ago
Bob Moog said that because he was being PAYED to. He got residuals from them using the name so it was in his best interest to say so. He knew anyone who was in line to buy his synths wouldn't be swayed by any soft synth of any kind because his customer base was musicians looking for professional equipment. Keep using that midi though, if you can't tell the difference then i'm sure you have a long illustrious career in music (insert laugh here).
MPrint666 2 years ago
Virtual analog refers to software synths.
MPrint666 2 years ago
that's an awesome synth! thanks for sharing this...
franzsapka 2 years ago 2
That comment you removed wasn't directed at you Analogger. I replied to some guy who said mono sucks and was only good for leads. I said HE wasn't a synth player obviously, not you man. You have your comments set to show newest posts so it won't properly show comment replies.
MPrint666 2 years ago
Awesome variety of stereo sounds!
So could the sequencer function like a regular arpeggiator? you know, set direction, range and finger a few keys.
icloo 2 years ago
Cool sounds. What patch are you using at 6:37?
AmbientGuitarSounds 2 years ago
what is the song called at 4:33? i know its common hear it everywhere just dont know it
Joeballz85 2 years ago
That is Aaron Copeland's "Fanfare for the Common Man." Do a search on Youtube and you'll find a great version by the New York Philharmonic, another on the Washington Cathedral Pipe Organ, and of course, the well known ELP rendition.
Analogger 2 years ago
Both have the Curtis low pass filter, but the MonoEvolver is a digital/ analog hybrid whereas the Mopho is 100% analog. The MonoEvolver does give you more as far as features, but I love the Mopho's crushing analog bass.
MPrint666 2 years ago
I know this is a basic question but what exactly is the process of "writing" your own patches? Thanx Guys ;)
Lemure333 2 years ago
Basically just changing any of the sounds parameters and saving your progress by "writing" over the old patch.
MPrint666 2 years ago
I'm not that familiar with the Mofo - just what I've seen on Youtube. It appears to be a badass little unit. The sequencer in the MEK is phenomenal. But I think a closer comparison would be the desktop Evolver and the Mofo. The desktop still has all the featrues of the MEK - just fewer knobs and no keyboard. It's hard to tell from Youtube sound quality, but the Evolver has a more digital texture to it compared to the Mofo or Little Phatty. Ideally you would want all three!
Analogger 2 years ago
awesome, was that patch at 5:10 a factory patch or one you made?
RetroSoundsDA 2 years ago
that is a factory sound and sequence called "Sweet Dreams."
Analogger 2 years ago
HELP ME!!
i just got a kimball temptation analog electric organ and i want to make it sound nasty and install filters and effects!!!
anyone know what they're doing?
hellamodern 2 years ago
Does the Temptation even have line out? You wouldn't be able to do anything if it doesn't, unless of course you rip it open and do some mod work. I would just suggest getting an actual synth that has the parameters you're looking for.
MPrint666 2 years ago
yeah you're right. this thing is a complete different beast. but it actually does have some nice sounds and vibes.
how do i install an out?
i'm probably gonna end up getting a little phatty and that moog theremin that doubles as a cv controller. that should be siiiiiicccckkk
hellamodern 2 years ago
Is the patch starting at 0:38 a publicly available patch? Or is it one you wrote yourself? It is very nice indeed.
Thanks for this very nice demonstration of the MEK. I have since bought a desktop Evolver, largely because your video.
dslsynth 2 years ago
An ARP 2600 pizza with the lot....pretty flexible piece of kit indeed
LeonardRockstein 3 years ago
Can you customize a synth bass line as a back up while you're playing another instrument (like guitar) while on stage?
incadove 3 years ago
guitar music = hippie crap!
vonTreffenfeld 3 years ago
But the presets are the same of the mono evolver desktop?
massia68 3 years ago
awsone! this is inly 999 $ in ebay im thinking to buy it! i got a question it is polyphonic?
gsus787 3 years ago
It's monophonic. the poly evolver is the polyphonic version with 4 voices.
Robbinsffxi 3 years ago
Your myspace page is great. Really cool music. I will be sure to add you the next time I am signed in on my own computer.
As for the Mopho, I just recently came across it and it sounds great, I really want one! But I already own an Evolver. :) I admit it: I'm a Dave Smith whore. He makes awesome stuff.
I REALLY want the LinnDrum II but that probably won't be out until Q3 of this year.
787Bisurdaddy 3 years ago
This or the mopho?
musicman2047 3 years ago
get both! but - I have not yet used the mopho. and, the evolver is packed with options for sound creation/destruction. I would go with the evolver first.
Analogger 3 years ago
great demo
network909 3 years ago
I just bought my first DSI - a desktop evolver :) Dave SMith's synths are as close as you can get to a Moog without actually getting a Moog, modern Moogs may have tuning stability but the sound is no better than DSI's stuff.
Modern components are rubbish! But DSI pulls it off very well, then man is a genius!
01vv10 3 years ago
I dont get that ever lasting moog hyping. :D It was just that early synth that it got classic status.
jimtaika 3 years ago
hehe neither did I until I actually played with a minimoog. the filters are unbeatable, and not even a moog voyager sounds as good as the original
01vv10 3 years ago
Your insane, every single Moog product is a masterpiece. I have been to the factory and played every instrument/effect box they had at the time(no moog guitar sadly). The craftsmanship is stellar and the sound is absolutely amazing. I own both a DSI Prophet 08 and a Moog Little Phatty and I can tell you that the Moog has superior build quality over the Prophet. The Moog bass sound has been copied more than the 808 bass drum. It's not an accident that they are the most legendary name in synths.
MPrint666 2 years ago
yeah the knobs on the dsi stuff feels kinda cheap but the prophet at least feels a little sturdier than the evolvers plastic knobs. the moog ones feel like a tank.
flux302 2 years ago
C'mon, every Moog product is *NOT* a masterpiece. The Micromoog and Multimoog are pretty buzzy, the Opus 3 isn't so hot either, and the Polymoog was a nightmare.
theoriginalmrsm 2 years ago
Every product they manufacture NOW dude. A few synths were out of their hands back in the day, but they have made some awesome shit, c'mon.
MPrint666 2 years ago
The new Moog music is okay. Kind of overpriced honestly, but decent stuff to brilliant.
nerdocide 2 years ago
MPrint666 -> typical american defending an american company to the hilt! Moog is wayyyy overrated, considering you pay atleast 1395 for one damn note of monophony!
no matter how creamy the filters are or how PHAT the oscillators are, i don't give a damn...in a mix it doesn't become that audible anyway...
many plug ins like the korg's MS20 legacy sound like hardware in a mix.
if i want to get a poly analog, it will be dave smith stuff... andromeda has more features, but i don't like its sound
lavakava 2 years ago
Not typical American, typical synth-head who likes synths, domestic or foreign. Crumar and Doepfer happen to be some of my favs. Don't act like u know me. You pay for sound not how many notes it can play. A Radioshack keyboard is polyphonic, would you take that over a Moog?
No I'm not a Moog fanboy, my main keyboard is a Prophet 08 for your information. Also if you think soft-synths sound as good as hardware than you might want to quit because you don't have the ear for this type of thing.
MPrint666 2 years ago 2
Right on!
Cable3999 2 years ago
Not true though. There are a lot of decent analog clones of the minimoog that use the same type of chips and similar filters. Dave's stuff has the reproduction Curtis Low pass filters that have their own unique sound.
MPrint666 2 years ago
i wish i could get both moog and dsi, but the fact is im not rich, and dont have the luxury that others have. if i have to choose based on most for ones little money, i would say the dsi is the best deal. if one could only afford ONE synth because of financial reality. I wish i were rich, but im not.
haikousei 3 years ago
Personally I think the MEK is the better deal because of its sequencer and massive programming options. The Moog sounds fat as hell, though. If cost is the major concern then you should consider getting the desktop Evolver. $500 buys you a lot of synth.
Analogger 3 years ago
The evolver makes sounds no other synth can.
Icepacalapse 3 years ago 4
I prefer the Little Phatty, but some people may like the Digital Oscillators and weak filters of this synth. Not that it sounds bad, just different.
Voltor07 3 years ago
why the -2? this guy had a point, I agree. the little phatty definitely has a different sound, much fatter. this sounds very digital, which isn't bad, it just has different character. depends what you use if for anyway,
ofdarknessandlight 3 years ago
My point exactly...I don't mind the minus two. Synth fanboys are the worst sort of fanboys...I'm one of them. I'm just a Moog fanboy though. I do like the Waldorf synths, though. They're a bit fatter, though it's the same basic technology DSI uses. Depends on personal tastes and the kind of sound you're going for. I also have a Farfisa 611-R. If you want weak sound....^_^
Voltor07 3 years ago 2
Hello, I've posted this video on switchedonsynthesizer.blogspot . com
Thalassa77 3 years ago
Great demo. Thanks for posting.
cantfademel 3 years ago 2
Wow, that sequence at 6:10 is really beautiful. Like vintage DM. Thanks for posting it!
peterkadar 3 years ago 3
This comment has received too many negative votes show
get the poly dude mono is shit one voice at the time, only usefull for leads
eog82 3 years ago
that is the most misinformed comment I've ever read
much of the music from the 70s and 80s used monophonic synthesizers to great effect
arguably the greatest synthesizer ever, the Minimoog, was monophonic!
of the current crop of polysynths none have become 'must-have' instruments, bar the Prophet '08
and history shows that polyphony is never as attractive as it first might appear
I am more than content with my one voice Little Phatty
discotechwreck 3 years ago 3
yeah, the main thing detering me from this is its mono, for cheaper I could just buy the desktop evolver and a microkorg, is the keyboard, wheels and extra knobs the only thing extra on this one, or are there other features the desktop version doesnt have?
HoweGavin 3 years ago
Comment removed
MPrint666 2 years ago
thanks for this great demo!
ironically I have a Little Phatty and want to get an MEK to increase the versatility of my set-up
can you explain what is happening in the patch at 2:27?
the note decay is really cool
discotechwreck 3 years ago
oooo....i want one,now i just have figure out where to put it
co211 3 years ago
This video helped me make the decision to get the MEK first, followed by the Little Phatty.
Thanks for posting this.
phoenix2242 3 years ago
Thanks for the Demo.
mattsynth 3 years ago 2
can i assign my midi knobs to triger any of the settings on the evolver? sorry if this sounds like a noob question lol
rockengi 3 years ago
You sure can - I have assigned my Midiman controller to do all that. It sits right below the Evolver - I had to consciously keep myself from using it during this demonstration in order to tweak the Evolver's knobs.
Analogger 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
insane synth :) finaly a virtual analogue synth that sounds EXTREMELY close to the real thing.
iodyn 3 years ago
well, it might sound so analog because it is analog? 2 of the 4 Oscillators are analog DCOs and the Filtersection consists of an analog curtis-chip. Only the Effectsection and two Oscillators are Digital.
x2mirko 3 years ago 3
its true analog. nothing virtual. two vcos, vcfs and vcas. there is a digital delay and two additional oscillators with digital waves from the prophet vs. the only virtual thing about this synth is that it is virtually impossible to get a bad sound out of it. even the most rude textures have their own beauty
Analogger 3 years ago
so you can use it as a chopping effect? to gate all those sharp rythems?
qwerfderf 3 years ago
yes
Analogger 3 years ago
WOW i wasnt aware it had a 16 stepper
qwerfderf 3 years ago
the sequencer is one of the key sound generating elements in the Evolver. Its is also great for applying rhythmic filter/distortion effects on your guitar, etc, when you use the external input. Also, it sends the info thru the midi out so you can use the sequencer on other midi instruments as well.
Analogger 3 years ago
Is there an arpeggiator (or something equivalent) on the MEK? Thanks for the fantastic demo!
naturalkinds 3 years ago
Yes, there is an arpeggiator. It has the usual functions - nothing fancy. It has the "latch" mode where every note you hit becomes part of the arpeggiation and keeps repeating after you hit a key. The arpeggiator is a hidden function - but the manual explains how to easily get into it. Perhaps I should post a brief arp demo.
Analogger 3 years ago
That would be great! In any case, thanks again.
naturalkinds 3 years ago
the rack has far fewer knobs...im looking for live worthy, do i need to go with the MEK? i almost feel like if im gonna spend 1300, i might as well save for a PEK on ebay for possibly 1800-2000...or is the ME mod up to the task?
marvinkmooneyoz 3 years ago
You can get the MEK for around $1000 retail and, of course cheaper on Ebay. The PEK is wicked - on both units I feel the "knobs" are essential. I would suggest going with a keyboard version of either.
Analogger 3 years ago
Nice synth.. ;)
UberSynth 3 years ago 3
what does MEK stand for?
marvinkmooneyoz 3 years ago
Mono Evolver Keyboard (part of the Evolver line of synths)
Analogger 3 years ago
that things a monster.
bentsynth 3 years ago 3
DID it come with the sweet dreams pattern as a preset?
at 05:14 ..
MalteSer001 3 years ago 2
Yes, it did. They nailed it pretty close.
Analogger 3 years ago
Thanks for giving this great demo. I particularly liked 'Fanfare'! :-)
nickeax 3 years ago 2
Hi, A week ago I bought an Evolver Desktop used.
In the site of Dave Smith Instruments there are the four factory banks downloadable in the download area. To which bank belongs these sounds? Did you start from the sound number 1 of the bank?
Synthetology 3 years ago
Yes...I started from Bank-1 patch-1. my first patch in bank #1 is called Evolver Showcase. I played a Poly Evolver keyboard at the Guitar Center and it had a whole bunch of different patches - some were really awesome, even when playing one note. I also heard that depending on when each Evolver was made, there might be some different sounds in each one. I imagine the MEK has some different stuff than the desktop and vice versa. That's just what I'm guessing.
Analogger 3 years ago
on the dave smith website is says they made a special "mostly analog" bank that shows off the evolver's abillity to make analog sounds, which can be downloaded from this site. i wonder what this bank has to offer
zahush76 3 years ago
i chose nither options. yesterday, i ordered the MEK and the PROPHET 08 DESKTOP. after thinking about it - this is the combination i fancy the most.
zahush76 3 years ago
I think you made a good choice! let me know how you like the Prophet Desktop - it looks badass.
Analogger 3 years ago
i'm still waiting for it. it will take about 2 - 3 weeks till it comes to israel. anyway, i was initially trying so hard to decide wether i should get the PEK or the P08, and i think i could do with one evolver voice and gain 8 prophet voices for an addition of 125$ (they gave me a 175$ discount at novamusik for buying both of them together).
zahush76 3 years ago
I went the opposite to you! I am picking up the P08 KB tomorrow and have the ME desktop on order.
And I can't play keys... LOL!
nickeax 3 years ago
i have a hard time deciding what to do with the money i saved. i have a little more than 2000$.
i can buy:
1. a used PEK from ebay
2. a new MEK combined with a waldorf blofeld
3. a new PROPHET 08 keyboard
4. a new PROPHET 08 desktop combined with a waldorf blofeld.
what do you think would be the smartest move? (it has to include a dsi)
zahush76 3 years ago
I'm personally going to buy MEK + Blofeld. This is why I'll vote for #2 from your list.
jurlutin 3 years ago
what are your considerations? i'm asking because i have pros and cons for each possibility. why in your opinion, for example, not combine a MEK with a virus ti snow? or, if the evolver voice is so wicked (i know it is) why not have four voices of it? i'll be happy to hear your thoughts on this matter.
zahush76 3 years ago
MEK + Blofeld gives you the widest range of sounds. Virus TI Snow need a computer and I want to be able to write full songs without touching my computer if I choose to do so.
I did own Virus TI Polar, but I sold it because I didn't really like it's sound that much. This is why I personally can't recommend the Virus wholeheartedly. It's sound might be perfect for your uses though. Try it out and see if it fits you.
jurlutin 3 years ago
2nd choice, because it gives you the widest range of tones. VA/Wavetables from the Blofeld, analog/wavetable/analog filtering from the MEK.
MEK and Virus Snow is a good choice as well, especially if computer is center of your studio. The Snow has the VA, wavetables, granular, and formant stuff from the Virus TI. I don't know how much the Snows are going to sell for though.
cthulufunk 3 years ago
they are on special pre-order on "novamusik", for 1050$. (while it's supposed to be 1250$).
zahush76 3 years ago
This synth is a dream come true... but it seems to me that in order to tame the beast, one will need to get the keyboard version instead of the desktop module one. Would you say that this is true?
The layout of the little one looks really complicated, and the layout of the keyboard looks like heaven, although there is a serious increase in price which makes it a bit out of my reach...
The layout is my only doubt so far in getting the small one (I'd better start saving).
bloodySunday77 3 years ago 2
For me, the keyboard version was the way to go. Because there are so many parmeters and possible modulation routings the more actual knobs you have, the better. Still, its amazing all the stuff they packed in the little desktop model.
Analogger 3 years ago
The layout of the desktop one looks really complicated, but when you get in to it its absolutely perfect. And you realize that its not that complicated afterall, its just very smart.
You get a full overview of the parameters just by looking at the synth, no need for fiddeling around in menues. And after a while editing gets really fast. Ive had the desktop version for about a year now and I love it more for each passing day! :)
ihlar 3 years ago 2
I think I'm sold with this synth. I was wanting the JP 8080. Still not fully decided...
fabr1c1om 3 years ago
fantastic viddy, analogger!
the MEK is such a great synth; a real advance in keyboard mono's. all-time classic.
i have a moogerfooger cp-251 coming tomorrow to go with my LP, and with the MEK that's a helluva combo. i can hardly wait.
shaft9000 3 years ago
Let me know how you like the cp-251...that is something I would like to get. Have you heard of the new Moog pedal that works as a four channel expression/midi-to-cv converter?
Analogger 3 years ago
Great video, Analogger. What fx are you using? Any outboard?
kfrausto 3 years ago
No outboard - just the efx in the MEK. It has three separate delays, along with distortion, ring modulation, FM, and an effect called "feedback" which lets you adjust frequency and amount.
Analogger 3 years ago
I asked you to post this THANK YOU !!! I think I'll get a Poly Evolver great futuristic sound
dontaewinslow 4 years ago
What are your thoughts on this vs a moog LP?
prospectnyc 4 years ago
from what I can hear, the LP has that beautiful "Moog" sound. I think its built like a tank, as well. Check out the LP demos from Jordan Rudess. I would love to have both...but right now I'm more into electronic/experimental/noise stuff and the MEK absolutely kicks as in that department. I think for bass the LP would probably rule. The sequencer on the MEK puts it in a category all its own. The MEK problably has more features, but the LP has "that sound." Hope that helps!
Analogger 4 years ago
It does. I used to have the Evolver rack. I miss its dirt and flexibility. I currently have the LP and I feel like its really limited to "that" sound and not that much beyond that.
Do you feel you can get some chunky and full bass sounds from the MEK?
prospectnyc 4 years ago
To my ears the MEK has a bass sound similar to an Oberheim OB-1 or SEM module. And when you use the 24db filter it has a pretty full sound.
Analogger 4 years ago
Yes it does. Fantastic. Thank you! Sorry for the late response :)
prospectnyc 3 years ago
This is a great unite i have one but i find with the digital Oscillators get trashy as the frequency gets hight in octives. but other than that in one of the best unite i've got other than my newer POLY EVOLVER a much better unite
doom705 4 years ago
This is a great unite i have one but i find with the digital Oscillators get trashy as the frequency gets hight in octives. but other than that in one of the best unite i've got other than my newer POLY EVOLVER a much better unite
doom705 4 years ago
great sound @ 00:59...i'd like to get an Evolver to compliment my P'08 SE..
rg2027x 4 years ago
How do you like the P '08? Does it have a nice sound - what would you compare it to?
Analogger 4 years ago
Honestly I was very surprised. It sounds 'phat' and lush. Very similar to Prophet T8 and my OB8. The stereo panning effects and layering capability are totally cool. That really makes it for me. I doubt you'd be disappointed with one. It's definitely got character and doesn't sound phony like a wannabee imitation it's the real deal. I like the overall tone much more than the Andromeda. It's got the Prophet sound..
rg2027x 4 years ago 4
This is a hoofing synth 10/10!!!
WINSTANLEYOBXa 4 years ago