![]() ![]() There's an enhanced step sequencer, which enables you to record in real or step time. The synth architecture is relatively conventional, but there are some clever functional tricks which extend its range. This time, though, we have a smaller (and lighter) footprint, with an octave taken off the keyboard and portability enhanced by the option of battery power. This isn’t just a monophonic version of the Minilogue, though there is a family resemblance (a real wood back panel, mini keys and the same set of inputs and outputs). Read full Teenage Engineering OP-Z review The OP-Z is unlike anything else on the market right now. It’s creative and unique, and while some might bemoan the reliance on an iOS app, we really enjoy the workflow between the two devices. This runs via Bluetooth, and gives full visualisation of the sequencer, sound engines and effects (using some great eye-catching graphics), and also acts as a screen for the visual sequencers.Ī few minor bugbears aside, there’s a lot we really like about the OP-Z. Without a screen it’s difficult to keep track of things using the hardware alone, but fortunately, TE has created a free control app (currently iOS-only, but forthcoming for Android too). The audio tracks are divided into two groups, with the first four set up as sample-based drum tracks and the latter as melodic instruments that can each make use of a variety of synthesis engines. Of those tracks, eight generate audio while the other eight are used for effect manipulation and external control. At its core the OP-Z has a 16-track, 16-step sequencer. What actually is the OP-Z? A synth? A sampler? An audio-visual sequencer? The answer is, to some extent at least, all of the above. It takes everything we liked about the original - the analogue grit, interesting oscillator shaping and Brute factor control, which overdrives the signal chain using a controlled feedback loop - and expands on it considerably. A serious competitor, then, and the same can be said of the MiniBrute 2S, which swaps the keys for a pad-based step sequencer. On the whole, the MiniBrute 2 is a real success. Where the original was a fairly straightforward monosynth with a few unique touches and some CV control, the MiniBrute 2 is semi-modular, boasting a beefed- up synth engine and a comprehensive mini-jack patchbay. As before, the primary oscillator can generate saw, triangle and square waves simultaneously, the outputs of which are blended via the oscillator mixer, where they’re joined by a white noise source and external audio input.įilter-wise, the MiniBrute 2 keeps the Steiner-Parker-style filter of its predecessor, which offers -12dB low- and high-pass modes, plus -6dB band-pass and notch filtering. Osc 2 pitch control is a little too close to the filter cutoff If you’re after one synth that can handle a variety of duties - bass, pads, percussion, FX - then this is the way to go. ![]() The original Minilogue already was - and, in fact, still is - a very versatile analogue synth.īy adding a customisable digital oscillator and effects slot on top of the original’s framework the XD takes things to the next level and has bags more character too. ![]() That said, there’s no denying that it offers excellent value in terms of the sonic flexibility you get for your money. With a price point above $500/£500, it’s arguable that the Korg Minilogue XD is pushing the boundaries of what can be considered a ‘cheap’ synthesizer. Best cheap synthesizers: MusicRadar's Choice So, whether you're looking for your first beginner synth, or a sound designer looking to add something new to your arsenal, there's a budget synth out there to suit everyone, and today we'll break down our favourites. However, in terms of which is suitable for you, that's a matter of taste and functionality - in some cases, you don't even have to choose between the two, but we'll get to that. Now, it's fair to say you have more choice at the bottom end of the synth market than ever before, with analogue and digital options being well-represented at this price point. ![]()
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