Massive vs synth 1 vs Ik Multimedia Syntronik

[zzz00m]

Just thought it might be worth mentioning that Synth1 was an attempt to emulate the Clavia Nord Lead 2 hardware synthesizer. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synth1

Since the Nord Lead 2 is also a digital synthesizer, Synth1 is able to emulate it more closely than digital synthesizers that aim to emulate analogue synthesis. Synth1 combines the common sound synthesis method of subtractive synthesis with FM synthesis, with the first oscillator having a parameter for frequency modulation.

[chk071]

... which doesn't sound like a Nord Lead at all. But, I guess it's rather emulating the architecture than the sound anyway.

[crickey13]

Oh, analog Nazis are here, great.

The reason why I use Synth1 is because it doesn't sound analog. If I want an analog sound, I will either instantiate a modern VA or reach for my hardware VCO analog poly.

Another reason why I use Synth1 is because I find its sound droll and charmingly lo-fi. Why use a hi-fi VA and then downgrade the sound with a bitcrusher when you can just grab Synth1 and get that lovely lo-fi digital vibe right out of the box for the fraction of the CPU cost. The fact that the filter sounds digital and its distortion algos alias like hell makes it even more characterful and endearingly cheesy, I love that I can instantly get that aliasing sparkle without any of the hassle found in modern VAs.

The fact that to begin with, it wasn't even modelled on any analog synth, but rather on the first and arguably one of the less analog sounding Leads makes the bone of contention even more confusing.

[chk071]

Even though I agreed on the Synth1 conclusion from Kazi7, I have to agree with you as well. There's definitely more to sound than the last degree of analog modelling, and super high definition top end. Character can sometimes (or actually... most of the time) really come with certain imperfections, or even technical limitations.

I don't necessarily agree on what you say about Synth1 though. But, then I'd only repeat my earlier points, so, I won't do that. Tastes differ, and, everyone should choose for themselves.

[zerocrossing]

I have Massive X and never use it. The sound is so one dimesnsional.

I have no idea how anyone could even make this statement. There are plenty of quirks to complain about with Massive X, but “one dimensional” sound... I can’t even imagine how anyone could think that. Of all the software instruments I own (and it’s a lot) it is the one plugin that I feel comes super close to sounding like a modern hybrid hardware synth that costs $4000.

[dellboy]

I have Massive X and never use it. The sound is so one dimesnsional.

I have no idea how anyone could even make this statement. There are plenty of quirks to complain about with Massive X, but “one dimensional” sound... I can’t even imagine how anyone could think that. Of all the software instruments I own (and it’s a lot) it is the one plugin that I feel comes super close to sounding like a modern hybrid hardware synth that costs $4000.

I totally agree with you, I was wrong.

I have not tried it for quite a while, and took the trouble last night to download NI Access and reinstall it. I am not sure if it is me, or new presets, but it sounded like a better hi-fi version of synth1, certainly much improved from when they first released it.

[chk071]

it sounded like a better hi-fi version of synth1

[Teksonik]

it sounded like a better hi-fi version of synth1

Dellboy's post has given me more joy than is legally allowable.........

[chk071]

He's completely wrong though. Not only with his assessment about both synth's sound, but also that Massive X's sound changed from what it was like in the beginning. There wasn't any change at all in the DSP.

[EnGee]

Which would you choose and why?

I've used synth1 for a little now and it is versatile. I'm still trying to learn how to calibrate synths so it's been a little overwhelming. I recently downloaded the free version of Syntronik and love the way the emulations sound, especially the prophet 5. Everyone raves about Massive so if the time comes and it's really worth it I'd just go ahead and buy native instruments Komplete 13.

I'm getting into writing synthwave and looking for sounds similar to the 80's synths and the one's used on Tron Legacy and stranger things. Taking that into consideration, out of the 3 is there one that you would recommend? Also if there are any others, payed or free, please let me know.

Many times the first choice is the best choice
Komplete is almost complete! It has tons of samples and dozens of synths. Reaktor alone has hundreds if not thousands of synths (users library).

Other options, which I have, u-he synths for great rounded synths. Arturia collection if you really like the vintage synths and organs. Another developers like Synapse Audio and TAL, have really great synths as well.

Personally, I'm using NI synths more than others. Synths like FM8, Absynth and Massive are never get old for me

[dellboy]

it sounded like a better hi-fi version of synth1

My personal opinion on some digital DSP code gave you those feelings ?

The angry Emoji I have no problem with, its an official Emoji to KVR . But the violent Emoji is from off site and should not have been used. Sorry, but I take a dim view of that sort of response and will ignore you in the future.

[chk071]

I wasn't serious about it at all. I just wonder how you can perceive it that way. Synth1 and MX sound pretty different.

[Ah_Dziz]

I'd go with synth 1 while you're learning. It's got a straightforward implementation of the most common analog subtractive synthesis features and it's free. On top of that it's basically zero cpu usage and a great sound. Massive is also fun but way more complicated than you need to make most synthwave sounds. I'm sure you could make good use of it eventually, but why bother spending the money (Also I dunno if you're referring to Massive or Massive X). Most of those 80s type sounds were analog so synth 1 will get you where you want to go. There is the added benefit of thousands of free sounds out there for it too so you can study how sounds you like were made. Really the secret to that sound is getting some good drums and looking into the mixing style of the era.

PS I don't know a single thing about IK syntronic so I'm only comparing Synth 1 Massive and Massive X all of which I have and use.

Good luck
JJ

[ferez21]

I know you mentioned other synths in your original question, but....buy any single issue of Computer Music, in which you will find their version of Dune (and many many more, Synthmaster and Thorn are highly usable and great sounding too). It is a great sounding synth with a straight forward workflow.

I think that should be the advice for every beginner, the amount of quality software found in every magazine is astounding, and for $5!