The real reasons why analog synths are superior to softsynths

[goldenanalog]

[goldenanalog]

[crimsonwarlock]

The only reason I possibly won't be using a lot of softsynths in 10 years time is that they're so cheap, compared to hardware, and hence if a newer one comes out that I like more than the old ones, it's not a huge deal to update like it would be for expensive hardware.

How about the investment in knowing an instrument inside out, the actual experience with it. I used my chosen hardware back in the days for decades as well, for this exact same reason, and now use that same view for software. No new (software) synthesizer can compete with a decade or more experience with whatever instrument you choose

But of course this doesn't apply to the legions of preset-jockeys around

[Igro]

Anyone using a softsynth from 10 years ago ??

Think anyone will be using a contemporary in use today softsynth in 10 years time ??
Maybe the occasional person might have forgotten to come out of their wardrobe with their beloved XP and beloved Synth1 and Oatmeal, but I can't see today's softsynths lasting 10 years, let alone decades more. All confined to dead harddrives in the sky.

Analog lasts. Digital Hardware lasts. Softsynths are disposable.

True that. Once a softsynth is not updated to the new OS, it's obsolete. Developer can die or kill himself, or just tire from developing.

[vurt]

im still using vurtbox

[crimsonwarlock]

Once a softsynth is not updated to the new OS, it's obsolete.

They used to say that about non-midi hardware as well

At the same time people manage to run VERY ols software (e.g. C64 and Atari stuff) on modern/current operating systems. It's also completely feasible to have old computers running old operating systems for using old versions of software and integrate this into a modern setup. I'm still contemplating to integrate my old Atari with Midex into my current studio, as NOTHING! currently available can touch the midi-editing possibilities of the old Atari Cubase versions (including current Cubase).

[lionscub68]

Did I mention I love missionary?

Pics or it didn't happen ...

"Missionary Pics"... the new Alchemy library from Camel Audio.
Based on samples and images of Robert deNiro in the film, "The Mission"
Coming Nov 31, 2014

[zerocrossing]

1. You know they are analog and thereby better pr. definition.

Do I really know it? I was told some of my instruments are analog, but it could be a hoax. One of my synths, a DX200 says it's digital and I like it more than some of the virtual DX emulation synths... so what does that mean?

2. They are often made in more robust materials than plastic, which makes them feel authentic.

Sure, they do have a "thinginess" to them that software does not have... but what happens when you're controlling them with a plastic MIDI controller and a VST editor?

3. They have real wires and often complicated to set up, which make them feel sophisticated.

If you find plugging your analog synth into an audio and/or MIDI interface complicated, then perhaps you should take up the harmonica.

4. Playing them makes you feel like a real musician compared to clicking softsynths with your mouse, which makes you feel like a computer nerd.

I love being a computer nerd, so why do I enjoy analog synths? Often I'll use software editor to program them... my Sub Phatty has barely been touched.

5. They are more beautiful than a PC.

Unless you have a Macintosh. Some of my synths are down right ugly IMO. The Minibrute is not going to win any beauty contests, that's for sure.

6. They are three dimensional not two dimensional, which enhance their authenticity.

Well, yeah, I guess, except again, software does need to be controlled by something that's 3d.

7. The fact that you sometimes have to get them repaired enhance their authenticity.

Have you ever dealt with Audio Damage's customer support!?

8. They feel more authentic to bring to a jam - or live gig than a PC and a controller.

Maybe.

9. They are much more expensive, which makes them feel more valuable.

Well, they are more valuable, especially if you buy used instruments. I bought a used Machinedrum and sold it for exactly what I bought it for after I decided I didn't like it. Oh crap! The Machinedrum is digital?

10. They even smell better, especially when they get hot.

I've yet to notice any of my synths having a particular smell to them. Maybe because I live near a bay and the smell of high tide is masking it?

11. They have a richer and more nuanced sound. (added that for you)

I still love me a good softsynth but I'll never understand posts like this. They always seem to be like some religious proselytizing based on an inner fear that if you don't spend enough time convincing others your belief system is correct then you'll have time to question it and find out it isn't. When I wasn't sure of the point of owning hardware, I actively sought out proof and found some convincing evidence. It led me to take a small plunge and buy one, only to find out that I did indeed find some sonic benefit to owning even a modestly priced analog synth. If you don't want one, then don't buy one, but why the silly posts like this? Did your parents not pay enough attention to you?

Wow you are a genius! Congratulations with the first real "serious" answer to my OP. But do yourself a favor and scroll down to the last post here and I promise it will all make sense to you

http://www.kvraudio.com/forum/viewtopic ... &start=240

Well maybe not to you after all but give it a try

Oh! It totally makes sense! You're a troll! Consider this billy goat eaten!

[IncarnateX]

You're a troll!

....aka a true KVR member! Just like you.

[Uncle E]

Stop watching this topic

[mcnoone]

I went from China to NYC carrying all my 20 or so synths.
Cost = 0

Checkmate!

Hardware 0
Software 1111111111111111111!!!!!!!

[Nielzie]

But analog gear makes girls think you're really old. Old and boring.

Good point

[Kriminal]

I went from China to NYC carrying all my 20 or so synths.
Cost = 0

Checkmate!

Hardware 0
Software 1111111111111111111!!!!!!!

If you're happy making inferior music just to save on transport costs, good luck to you. Personally, i couldnt make such a compromise.

[HaganeSteel]

Anyone using a softsynth from 10 years ago ??

I use the Edirol Hyper Canvas, and plenty of people still use SampleTank.

Both have lots of character.

The general consensus on the Cakewalk forums is that the TTS-1 (the Hyper Canvas renamed and rebranded) is pretty awesome and has replaced some people's Sound Canvases.

Lack of quality control is generally why software doesn't last, but software was/is still new, and things need time and adjustments.

The growth rate over the last five years has been immense, sort of like Moore's law.

We haven't come close enough to maxing out what we can do with softsynths to void Moore's law yet. In the next five years, it'll be even more immense.

[faun2500]

Anyone using a softsynth from 10 years ago ??

Think anyone will be using a contemporary in use today softsynth in 10 years time ??
Maybe the occasional person might have forgotten to come out of their wardrobe with their beloved XP and beloved Synth1 and Oatmeal, but I can't see today's softsynths lasting 10 years, let alone decades more. All confined to dead harddrives in the sky.

Analog lasts. Digital Hardware lasts. Softsynths are disposable.

Never actually thought of it like that.