Epic Synth Studio Tour 2022 DEEP DIVE!
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- čas přidán 13. 07. 2024
- A complete tear-down and rebuild of the Fortress of Synthetude: all the major gear I use, and why. I also play each synth a bit so you can hear them all and get an idea of their character.
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Website: www.jimdaneker.com
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Table of contents:
00:00:00 - Intro & background
00:03:22 - Why rebuild?
00:05:00 - What needs improvement?
00:11:40 - Rebuild
00:17:21 - Results
00:18:04 - Yamaha DX7IIFD & Roland D-50
00:20:03 - Oberheim Matrix 6 & Ensoniq VFX
00:22:34 - Oberheim OB-X8 & Roland Jupiter-X
00:29:50 - Arturia MatrixBrute & Roland System 8
00:36:56 - Sequential Pro 3 SE
00:40:47 - Sequential Prophet 5 & Prophet Rev 2/16
00:45:24 - Moog Subsequent 37
00:47:37 - Hydrasynth & Access Virus TI
00:52:59 - Control Central
00:53:25 - Grace M905 Monitor Controller
00:54:54 - Stream Deck
00:56:52 - Pedals: Specular Tempus & Microcosm Hologram
00:57:52 - MIDI CC controller: Novation Launch Control XL
01:00:20 - Thunderbolt dock & SSDs
01:02:12 - Line6 Helix
01:02:47 - Main monitors: PMC IB1SAIII
01:03:37 - Nearfield monitors: Yamaha, iLoud, ADAM
01:05:09 - Original DX7 & Yamaha YC88
01:06:08 - Standtastic keyboard stands
#JimDaneker #StudioTour #Synth #Keyboard #Synthesizer #DeepDive #HowTo #Studio #Technology #Recording #Setup #Gear
As an Amazon & Sweetwater Associate, you can help support the channel by using the affiliate links below. It won’t cost you a penny more, but it can help keep the channel going and is much appreciated! Here’s my main gear list:
Keys & Synths:
Access Virus TI - imp.i114863.net/Ryv3yN
Arturia MatrixBrute - imp.i114863.net/rn20v3
Arturia PolyBrute - imp.i114863.net/OR23RW
ASM Hydrasynth - imp.i114863.net/AoEkoD
Korg Wavestate - imp.i114863.net/15Wo5B
Oberheim OB-X8 - imp.i114863.net/vndnoA
Oberheim OB-E - imp.i114863.net/6br5bq
Roland System 8 - imp.i114863.net/kjoknd
Roland Jupiter X - imp.i114863.net/AoEAz7
Roland Juno 106 plug-in - imp.i114863.net/XxXrPg
Roland Juno 60 plug-in - imp.i114863.net/oeyG2m
Roland System 100 plug-in - imp.i114863.net/za20Q6
Roland Fantom 7 - imp.i114863.net/15Wgjm
Sequential Prophet 5 - imp.i114863.net/Vy6QrE
Sequential Pro 3 SE - imp.i114863.net/Zdymkk
Sequential Rev2/16 - imp.i114863.net/Vy6Ryk
Sequential OB-6 - imp.i114863.net/oeyPeY
Yamaha YC88 - imp.i114863.net/2rx9r7
Audio Gear:
UA Apollo Twin desktop audio interface - imp.i114863.net/3PdR2d
UA Apollo Z8P rack audio interface - imp.i114863.net/yRmOzW
Warm Audio WA273EQ preamp - imp.i114863.net/MXNkZo
MXL CR89 condenser mic - amzn.to/35rnDtE
ADAM T5V near field monitor - amzn.to/2TC0Eta
ADAM T8V near field monitor - amzn.to/2Ty7lMS
Grace M905 monitor controller - imp.i114863.net/Zd93dX
Line6 Helix - imp.i114863.net/BXZoXy
PMC IB1SAIII - imp.i114863.net/0JLDJR
iLoud Micro Monitors - imp.i114863.net/Eaova2
IK Multimedia iLoud MTM portable monitors - amzn.to/3iXA88j
Sony MDR7506 headphones - amzn.to/3xrGyR4
Peripherals & Control Surfaces:
Behringer X-Touch mixing controller - imp.i114863.net/mg2ae1
Behringer X-Touch Compact custom controller - imp.i114863.net/LPZ5JY
Novation Launch Control XL - imp.i114863.net/4eQjen
Stream Deck - amzn.to/3gBoEUZ
CalDigit TS3+ Thunderbolt Dock - amzn.to/3pZt2RO
Kensington Expert Mouse (Trackball) - amzn.to/2SCnkJxs
Yamaha FC7 volume/expression pedal - amzn.to/3xlBAFl
Roland DP-10 heavy duty piano-style sustain pedal - amzn.to/3wx0nGl
Furniture & Stands:
Rockville portable mixer/console/keyboard stand - amzn.to/3gt8WMJ
Rockville short desktop speaker stands PAIR - amzn.to/3gsUsg1
Rockville 36” tall wood speaker stands PAIR - amzn.to/35p7Rzl
Heavy duty tripod speaker/utility stands PAIR - amzn.to/3q1jt5c
Ultimate desktop angled laptop stand - amzn.to/2TC38ru
Heavy duty adjustable Z-style keyboard stand - amzn.to/3pVQr6Z
Ultimate Support V-Stand - amzn.to/3wxkC6S
Camera, Video, & Streaming:
Sony A7C full frame mirrorless camera - amzn.to/3pVA3mW
Sony A7III full frame mirrorless camera - amzn.to/3pXtRe4
Sony 85mm f/1.8 prime/portrait lens - amzn.to/3cMjpkd
Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 wide angle zoom lens - amzn.to/3vthZBC
Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 zoom lens - amzn.to/3vrahb5
DJI RSC 2 gimbal stabilizer (Pro Combo version) - amzn.to/3wwdRlE
Motorized slider track - amzn.to/3voCNKt
Tripod with 360 degree ball head - amzn.to/3grjgVr
Studio lighting kit - amzn.to/35wFKOx
Roland VR-1HD pro streaming mixer - amzn.to/3zsMsmH
Blackmagic ATEM Mini streaming mixer - amzn.to/3gr80bF - Hudba
Appreciate you taking the time to document the process - very helpful to see how a pro makes use of all the stuffs out there ..... thank you!
Jim!!!! - Finally, great to see you again - I'm almost ready here (release january 13th on my 60th birthday) be there :-) - ..And WAOW that was one of those video's you can watch every morning before Coffee, well done :)
Watching this makes me so happy 🎉🎉🎉🎉
Oh man, perfect video for a sick day. I need a DX7 in my life, and to buy another Pro 3.
Loved the walk through, Jim. Great work!
You’ve done it again, Jim! As a fellow synth-head, it’s fun seeing how you always come up with creative solutions for your setup. Amazing video as always!
With my new Oberheim OB-X8, I now own 11 hardware synths, and seeing that spaghetti at 12:10 totally reminds me of my own synth studio dilemma. 😂 Coincidentally, I also had to remove my mixer from my setup because it was giving me some problems, and I think it helped to streamline my workflow. Definitely taking notes from your vids as I go along. ✨
Glad it was helpful!
One of the best vids of this kind I've ever seen! Thanks, Jim, for taking the time & effort to do this... 🎹❤
Sure thing!
Im SOOOO happy that u are a actual PLAYER!!!!
When u reach up and play the OBX8 AND the JUPITER X at the same time, THAT'S when ideas shift into more than sounds, right?
Same with the System 8 and MIGHTY PRO 3 SE (MATRIX BRUTE as well)
Ideas start to become songs!
Do that Synth record, my brother!!
U are representing us very well, Sir
Ah man, THANK YOU for the kind words! That means a lot! Yeah, there’s not much point in just collecting synths, which seems to be a trend. They are instruments that should inspire - not just pretty toys to look at!
And P.S. I’ll be making an announcement after the holidays about a pretty epic project that will involve all these goodies, and then some! Stay tuned 😁
gotta say some of those photos of all the work that had to be done made my back hurt.
Thank you Jim! what a SUPERB Video.. love it!
Thanks for the kind words!
thats fantastic studio - really nice to see - hope its going well
I love my Jupiter X too.
This is awesome!
"Does it inspire me?". Great line. I was into composing electronic music in the 90s and everything always spun off of inspiration that came as I cycled through patches. I'm less focused on creating in that way now, but watching you adlib based on what each synth is producing for you here is itself inspiring and makes me want to get back to doing some of that.
Glad it was helpful!
You re so beast your Studio is amazing
You're a life saviour! Thank you!! Very helpful!!
Nice rig. Rebuilding yes, all the time. The main reason is to have access to sound design on synths and perform on them. I have 17 synths including one groove box and one sampler, and I had to fit it all in the corner of the Livingroom in a 6x8 foot space. So, for my main 3 tier stand I built it out of a desk and 1x12inch pine boards. So now the main keyboard stand holds three synths and a groove box along with a 32-channel mixing board, a 24-track hardware recorder, 2 active monitors, and 3 effects devices; all in a 32x47inch floor space, under the desk is power conditioners for the studio, another synth, a vocal processor and guitar processor, plus all the pedals for the 3 synths. Never could have done this with commercial keyboard stands and this stand is rock solid, no motion, just like playing a grand piano stability. The remainder of the studio is on two double brace two-tier X stands. I use the top of the "X" for 19inch rack gear, it fits perfectly in there and there is room for 4 spaces. I just use zip ties in the holes of the rack ears and it holds the equipment just fine. One small desk hold 2 synths finishes the "square" arrangement where I sit in the middle and can play all my synths without moving, have a stool that rotates for 360 degrees of playing.
I record Vangelis style where I play the entire song in one take, no overdubbing. This requires a floor full of control pedals, and every synth in a ready to play position. It takes a few days to set up for one song and adjust mixer levels, EQ, effects design, effects levels, sound design and recording levels. Once everything is perfect, I begin practicing the song and train for all the pedal and modulation controls for a seamless finished song. I use a sampler and a VERY powerful pattern sequencer to fill in the blanks when both my hands and feet are busy. On a rare occasion I may use a step sequencer.
I can't afford the top end gear you have, so make do with some lower cost stuff. IF you are interested below is the list:
1) Roland RD-2000 just of the V-Piano.
2) Roland FantomO6 just for the group sequence launch from the 4x4 pads.
3) 1010Music Black Box sampler, for sample clips of acoustic guitar and building gigantic (mixed samples) stereo poly synths from an Arturia mono synth.
4) Minilogue and a MinilogueXD the perfect 4 voice synths for monophonic play.
5) Kurzweil PC4 with VAST/FM, a poor boys 32x16 module modular synth.
6) Boutiques JP-08, JX-03, JD-08, JX-08.
7) Roland Gaia layered with a Yamaha RefaceDX.
8) Roland E-A7 used for the powerful pattern sequencer 8 tracks can run as long as 100 or more measures. I program from a blank initiated style. (presets are ugly)
9) Roland JunoDS just for the vocoder with 4 layers of vocal patches. Layered with a Korg Triton and a 3 layer vocal patch.
10) Korg KromeEX controlling the Boutiques and occasionally a patch.
12) Yamaha MX49, mainly used as controller for analog synths.
13) Korg Electribe2 Blue groove box. used for layering drums with the E-A7.
14) Effects: three Zoom CDR pedals in the aux loop of the mixer and one Night Sky reverb.
15) Mackie 32 channel Mixer with 8 sub outputs to the Zoom R24 SD recorder.
16) Yamaha DGX-670 piano, used only for solo piano, not in the studio.
No computer used. Will be buying a MAC MINI this year for mastering with Logic.
Love it! I'd love to see & hear what you do!
Thank you. I have 27 albums posted on this channel, but only the last two are with this new studio, all the other albums made on very cheap gear, casio cheap. Here is an orchestrated synth album from the new studio: czcams.com/video/Ol2hktRGbyA/video.htmlsi=yBp8LKnDqxt354UT Need to get mastering software so I can lower my tracking levels. @@JimDaneker
Hi, Jim. Chris here with Stone Prophet. This video is probably the most informative and friendly experience on CZcams I’ve had in a very long, long time. Thank you for sharing your studio logistics and knowledge base with us!
Hey Chris! Man, thank you so much for the kind words… always glad when I can pass on something helpful, let alone fun! 😁
Holy synth
😂😂😂
Glad the DX7 is still in your setup. Those oak panels still look great. Should have taken your advice and made a dozen or so pair for others. Much easier to do in groups than ad-hoc. Thanks for another cool video!
Thanks Chris!
Hi Jim, I agree with you on the sound of the Yamaha console. I use a Yamaha AW4416 stand alone recorder. I love the effects that are in it. I believe they are the same effects that are in your 02R. This video motivates me to reorganize my studio as well. Cables are getting out of control again. Loving the sound of my OBX8, although I am having a lack of voices problem. About time to contact SC over this. I just read some of your firmware update suggestions on the SC site. Thanks for sharing! Jim
Sure thing!
💪🏻🔥🔥🔥👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 Absolutely Amazing!
you had me at deep dive
Amazing 🤩 set up
Thanks!
Congratulations Jim you have the best studio in the world and we have the same taste... ;)
This is the most fun video, a synth heads dream 😍
Ha - thanks!
synth dream land!!!! currently loving my pro 3 SE, love that beast!!
Yeah man, that thing is a monster!
Amazing video
Thanks so much! Cheers!
You are amazing Jim! Thank you!! Followed your advice...StandTastic stands are amazing. Got mine with a 4th tier, thanks!! Too much I'd love to type but this is enough...thank you again, Sir!
Thanks buddy!
Glad to see you are still rocking my Virus Ti.
LOVE that thing!
106:45 Mario Matty our belgium hero :D :D
Amazing realy liked it! Subscribed 😊
Thank you - welcome!
You basically have a "who's who" list of my favorite synths Jim -- man, am I jealous, Lol!
Ha, thanks! Honestly, it can be a bit of overkill. These days with software as good as it is, you really don’t need all of this. Despite all the effort that went into this, I’m thinking of unloading a few just to simplify a bit!
I'm now a subscriber thanks to this video. This is the first video that now has me considering replacing my Jupiter 80 for the Jupiter X. I love my OB6 but that OBX8 is so tempting. I have a Matriarch for my Moog sounds and a Virus KC, however for me. the most impressive among the many you have is the Specular Tempus. Great and informative video. Looking forward to your future content!!!
Thanks for the kind words - glad to have you here! And yeah, the Tempus is insane 😁
You just sold me on the Roland System 8-just ordered it from my sweetwater guy and can’t wait! Thanks!
Enjoy - it's one of my all-time favorites!
This was indeed epic.
Ha - thanks!
beautiful space! thats a lot of gear right there 🎹🤩
Thanks Nicolas! I’m actually selling a few pieces off… I’ve learned it can be distracting to have too many options!
@@JimDaneker yeah im having the same issue , i feel you :)
Absolutely no Kryptonite could beat this. Jor-El would be proud.
Ha - your timing is impeccable… We’ve been watching Smallville lately 😁👊🏻
Nice
Hmmm, that dedicated cable mess lamp is definitely inspiring 😅
My OCD caught that, too... I was like, ooooooooo yesssss
Ahh...the long awaited "Fortress of Synthetude 2.0". Love the 80's theme music...will this be on the next album??? Thanks for sharing Jim!
Thanks! Nah, the music is just generic “video bed” stuff I’ve created. The next project is definitely 80s themed - I hope to announce it early in 2023!
This is a beautiful studio, it's been a great inspiration since the Masters tour. No modular fart machines, just the nicest keyboards, I love the "fake" Jupiter also, myself went for the Juno X.
Seems you got rid of the OB6 desktop you had if I remember correctly? I was thinking OB6 gonna be redundant with OB X8, but actually I'm happy to keep both, both amazing sounding, but not really the same.
Thanks! And HAAAA - no “modular fart machines” 😂😂😂
Yes, the OB-6 didn’t do anything for me that I couldn’t get with software options, and the OB-X8 more than covers any OB needs. ;-)
@@JimDaneker I have the feeling that a synth with its own keyboard adds a lot of magic allowing to walk up to it and play on its own, it just completes the instrument and enhances the perception. So having all these "redundant" identical keyboards although looks crazy actually makes sense. I certainly enjoy the OB6 sound and playing its own keyboard surely is part of the experience.
@@klc8490 absolutely!
Oooh 44min. I did recognise the Genesis sound. I must be a fan. ;-)
Thorough tour, decent! I like the grouping of 2 synths together. Who makes that new 3-tier stand?
I talked about those stands in the last chapter - see the table of contents. They’re made by Standtastic - model 103 KS. They’re the best I’ve ever used!
I recently did a similar overhaul of my studio and replaced my Yamaha O2R with patchbays. Really miss it but it was another extra stage that was not needed. Thanks
Dudes got some cool gear ..wow
I just need to pay someone a ton of money to come teach me in person how to PROPERLY midi and route everything. Good lord i swear its like trying to learn multiple new languages, simultaneously.
What is the level of RF in that room?
So much electricity cracklin in there. When I tore apart my audiophile stereo separates back in the day and I thought that was a big deal. Your cable set up is at least 10 or 20x of that.
Cable management is a nice way to explain mind boggling overwhelm. What a treat to see and experience your synth setup. Thanks for the backstage glimpse. Great video Jim!
RF isn't a problem when everything is wired properly with balanced audio lines where possible, AC is run separately, etc.
Awesome video, as a console replacement, have you looked at Presonus 32 R? Awesome mixer controlled via a tablet with build effects, you can use just the gate to reduce the noise floor of all that analog “whispering” they also got extension so with just one cat5 cable you can have a few extensions to plugs the distant synths. and you have AVB > DANTE...
Would love a video if you can off your hydra synth working with some of your soft synth
great rundown. Kind of makes me happy with my smaller selection which mirrows yours in many ways (bar the 80s stuff). I have the Ti2 Rack... I dont have a hydrasynth (I did have one for a while) but have an iridium keyboard doing the same job (both sonically and poly AT). I dont have the Ob-x but I do have the OB6. I dont have the Prophet 5 but I do have the Prophet 6. I only have one mono but it is the Pro 3. I dont have a system 8, or a Jupiter X BUT I do have the Jx models (at least some) in my Fantom 7 which is my synth action controller. My 88 note weighted option is my RD2000. So what dont I have... well a Moog or the Maxibrute - but I dont do too much mono. The Dx7/D50 stuff which much as Id like I dont have room for. I dont have a Rev 2 BUT I DO have a Novation Peak...... Which I keep thinking of swapping with a Rev 2...... or possibly a super six desktop..... or possibly the Trigon 6 (if/when its released as a desktop). Really that Peak or not peak is the only niggle I have - for much the same reasons you state (regards the Roland VA synths and the Virus). i DO use that in my live rig though - so Id need to re-program some sounds - and the super six wouldnt do them, and the Trigon 6 maybe wont either (as the Peak has 4 LFOs and 3 Envs which neither of those have though the T6 has 2 LFOs if you give up the 3rd Oscilator).... The Rev 2 does though (and would double the polyphony and give layered 8 note). That IS a tempting swap....and will probably do that when I change live projects OR if I can find room to have both while I re-do the sounds. I do also have a Viscout Legend EXP Hammond module - but thats mostly for live use. I only have a single pair of monitos mind, which are the Neuman KH120s, (which replaced my Adam AX5s a couple of years back) and a matching KH750 sub (not for mixing, just for playing through). theres always more or different synths to try - but with limited space (Im very full) its really 1 out to bring 1 in, and every time I think of taking something away...I find its use, unique feature and/or beauty/sounds again. I also keep thinking how I could squeeze a Polybrute in...BUt its a large board when I dont have the space (most of mine are modules)..... Id need to find a bigger space for that for sure... Once the kids have permanantly flown the nest I could nick one of their rooms.... OH... I also have a TR8s for drum duties (which has some 3rd party kits... a simmons, the original Lynn Drum, Oberheim DX, Sequential Drumtrax, the old EMU SP12 and drumulator... there all iconic as well as the stock 808, 909, 626, 727 kits) and a hardware sequencer in the form of a Squarp Hapax (recently replaced my Pyramid). both those are fun... And onother Oh... Where your using a Helix, Im using a Fractal Axe-FX3... Again similar job.
Nice overview with helpful advice. Do you find the Roland Jupiter X and System 8 ( not best keybed) have too much overlap? I have the System 8 and Juno 60 and don't want to have too much duplication. Also, Is the iArpeggio the main draw for the Jupiter-X vs Juno-X?
They do have some overlap, but the System 8 just strikes me so much more like the ultimate 80s Roland icons - there’s something special about it. Editing it in real time is a bit more direct, too. There are times I have seriously considered getting a second System 8 and dedicating it to a few of the expansion models - it’s that good!
How do you get the wide stereo image on the DX7ii? I dump DX7ii sysex patches into mine but they still come out as mono
You have to be in Dual mode, then hit the PAN button. Each layer will come out its respective side.
@@JimDaneker thank you!!! I got it working, seems like I had to change the pan mode to pan mode #3 as well. Would that be correct?
@@jaydiggsmusic I can't remember offhand, but pan mode is either on or off if I recall - but there may be more to it in performance mode. If it sounds right, it is right. 😁👍🏻
I love cables😂 without them life would not exist
There are a lot of things without which life would not exist, but that doesn't mean we want to see them all 😂😂😂
Great video ! What MIDI interfaces do you use ? Thank You.
Those ancient Emagic Unitor mkII’s from the late 90s!
Cool Setup. Very impressive and good looking. I'm jealous. I have a fraction of what you've got; an OB-X8, Prophet-5, Polybrute and a Subsequent 37. I can't find your Polybrute in this new setup. Did you get rid of it? I also have a MODX6 instead of your DX7, for some FM sounds and op to modern standards wave table. No space and funds for more, so I'm using software for the rest. Still it's inspiring to see how I could expand in the future and how to set it all up. Thanks.
You've got a fantastic "fraction" there! interestingly enough, I trimmed quite a bit of this not long after making this video. It was visually inspiring and I certainly love having lots of hardware, but ultimately I started finding that it slowed me down because I had too many options and ended up getting lost in the weeds.
So, I really thought about my priorities and got down to a smaller, more focused setup. And yes, as part of that, I let the PolyBrute go. I had more than enough analog options, so that was one that went to a good home where it would get used more.
Hi Jim, Thanks for the video! Was a blast to watch. I’m a film composer myself and looking to get into my first hardware synth. Any advice on which route to take? I’ve been eyeing things such as the Prophet 6, OB-6, Pro 3, Sub 37, UDO Super 6, Novation Summit, Jupiter X, etc. thanks for any advice you can provide!
Oh man, such a tough question and kind of impossible to answer as we all have our preferences and priorities. I think one of the things is to identify what can easily be achieved in software vs. finding a hardware synth that has no software equal. Another consideration is finding one that makes a great control surface for software - ideally something with a pretty traditional layout. Out of your list, the Prophet 6 checks all the right boxes and sounds amazing!
Very nice gear! Very nice sounding! That Jupiter X and this Sequential Pro-3 are sounding great! Also that Arturia Matrixbrute! I remark that you have no vintage analog synths besides that Sequential Prophet 5. Has that a reason? greetz
I used to, but they've all been replaced by modern equivalents that are much more reliable. I don't miss all the repair bills and headaches - I'm too busy making music! The Prophet 5 and Oberheim OB-X8 cover those flavors, the Roland Jupiter X and System 8 cover all Roland's classic sounds, etc.
Jim can you please ID the main studio desk/workstation that you are using? Does the YC-88 fit in a slide out tray as part of the desk or is it on a separate stand? Lastly, what Mac display/monitor are you using?
Thank you!
Sure thing! My main workstation is an Argosy Dual 15K that I've modified over the years. My 88-key controller on the slide-out is a Korg D1; it's the only slim, low-profile keyboard that works for me in that spot (the YC88 is a little too thick). My big screen is a 55" Samsung 4k TV.
What a tremendous video that just randomly came up on my feed but boy I’m glad it did. What a beautiful studio my dude. Just incredible and it was sweet before the overhaul. I think we’re pretty close were everything will be wireless then you really won’t have to worry about wires. Great job though it’s like a work of art your studio.
Thanks for the kind words!
Thank you so much for this. In the process of remaking my own studio. Just ordered an enterprise electric studiodesk. What are those synth racks ? They look so much better then the EU Jaspers aluminium ones : 1:06:30 on type of stands, end of the video
You are so welcome. I talked about the stands at the end of the video, and did a dedicated video on those:
czcams.com/video/qyCgFfAR4sk/video.html
Hey Jim! Long time on Vi C etc,
Not seen this vid until tonight. Hope you're well chap.
Thanks for the reinstall tour - I did the same last weekend with the help of some friends, but, I still have a rat's nest of cables which I will need to deal with at some stage soon. I've just pushed them under the hardware racks for now.
I'm so glad to see we have lots of the same synths - Matrixbrute, Sub37, Rev2, Wavestate, DX7IIfd, Virus (in my case B). I've been very interested to hear your opinions on the Jupiter X - I had one on demo (I have a Jupiter 80 too), but didn't get it really. But it seems like you really loved it. I also have a Waldorf Quantum - love to hear your thoughts on that chap.
Those stands, brilliant as I need replacements for my setup here.
Hey Stephen - good to see you here… Thanks for the kind words! I've certainly seen you a bunch over on VIC ;-)
So yeah, the JPX... I had one for a while and sold it because of the overlap with the System 8 (which I absolutely adore). However, the 3.0 update turned it into a whole other synth. The new 4-oscillator Jupiter model is crazy good, and the Vocal Designer expansion gives it the best vocoders I've ever heard. Yeah, I’m an 80s nut. So, I ended up getting another one last year.
I still think the System 8 is more of a go-to for straight up Roland analog icons, but the JPX complements it well in so many ways... and it certainly looks the part ;-)
What is your recording chain for synths? DI's before the Yamaha mixer? Do you ever think of doing the Tony Anderson method... of keeping the synths unplugged and moving only 1 into playing position (on your front desk) at a time w/ a timer?
Sorry, I totally forgot to address that! Most of my synths have dedicated inputs on my Apollos, but I also have patch bays that let me run them through a pair of Neve 1073s, which I usually do when tracking them.
I like Tony’s idea, but I would be constantly moving them around, and there are many times I record them simultaneously, so it wouldn’t work for me. I also like that they are physically in different places around the room, so it’s a nice change of scenery to interact with them throughout the day.
Wish I had caught this 9 months ago.
I see those big monitors are close to the wall, but it looks like you have fixed that with some thick sound absorption behind them, would love to hear more about that.
No home-built room is ever going to be acoustically perfect, so you have to figure out what works for you and gives you the best results. It took a LOT of experimentation to get monitor placement right - lots of trial and error. But there are some proven strategies to start with: absorption at major reflective points and a combination of absorption and diffusion behind you & above you, etc.
eMagic!! 😊
Yessir!
i their what extens u're system 8 support??
Impressive that even in the “messy” state your cables didn’t seemed to be dusty…
I keep a pretty good dust filter going 😁
💪🏻
Hi Jim . Great video.
What did you do for your power. Do you have a dedicated circuit for you power supplies and is that circuit a conditioned and protected from high or low current. Thanks
Yes indeed - I should have covered that; I have a dedicated circuit with isolated ground, and that feeds a Cyberpower UPS/line conditioner that runs the whole room. That has saved my bacon many times! I still completely unplug all outside connections when there's lightning in the area though - nothing is going to stop a bolt of lightning!
@@JimDaneker sounds like you’ve got it covered for sure.
SO much fun to be had in the studio… how do you handle going out in the road and NOT taking you favorite keyboards with you to give you all those sounds!?!?!? Do you just sample them all and stick them in BSP??
Kind of, yeah! 😁
would love someday you'll make a song with all of these keyboards 🤘
They're on all my projects, and most important, the big 80s one coming up - see www.arcadeorchestra.com
Any thoughts on the 3rd Wave Synth? You want one? 😜
I’ve never been a fan of the PPG sound, so that one really doesn’t appeal to me honestly!
@@JimDaneker ah ok!
My brother, would love see a deep dive on how you are programing your stream deck. We have one, you've got 2 working in concert. It's one thing to know that you can set it up in certain ways, it's much another to know the why's/when aspect of your user philosophy.
Ron Flack, Canton Ohio
I’ll try to do one at some point! The details I mentioned in this video are a good start though!
This was incredibly helpful! I have a few questions about your MIDI routing. Are you sending a tempo clock to each synth from a central source like Logic? Do you only record the audio out from each synth or do you also record the MIDI out as well? Do you ever send MIDI from the DAW back to a synth and then re record the audio?
Glad it was helpful! I can send MIDI clock from Logic to any synth, yes. And I typically record from each synth into Logic as MIDI so I can edit as needed - then when I'm satisfied, I capture immediately as audio (but I save the MIDI region just in case I want to come back to it later).
@@JimDaneker got it. I would love to see a video on this workflow if you are taking requests 😉
@@hosedog99 there's really nothing to it - that's just standard everyday operation with any DAW. 😁
Beautiful setup Jim! Do you mind sharing the dimensions of your room?
Thanks! 14 x 22 irregular, with roof dormers in the back.
Oh man, that is waaaaaaay too much kit for me. ha. If I have more than 6 synths, a couple of drum machines and a humble sampler (No DAW) I end up with option anxiety and am less productive. I end up a slave to the machines where they are supposed to serve myself. Each to there own. Great vid to see how you do it but terrifies me haha
You definitely bring up a really important point! Funny enough, I downsized quite a bit after shooting this: I let go of five or six keyboards, because as much as I love having them, "options overload" really is a thing. The visual was fun, but I'm more productive when I'm streamlined! Thanks for the kind words 😁👊🏻
What an awesome video you have made. Beautiful studio! I just recently build Grey Matter E! into my DX7IIFD. That is just such a great expansion. Can recommend it. Which brings me to the question. where is the DX5, TX816, KX88??
The KX88 is in the back of the room at the moment. After I finished DX Dreams, I sold the DX5 and TX816 to fund other things; I deep-sampled all the DX sounds I will ever need ;-)
@@JimDaneker I love DX Dreams.However since I own both a DX7IIFD and TX802 since they came out late 80's you inspired me to go for the real deal (DX5/TX816) :)) You think the DX7II is enough? Or is it worth it to own a DX5 or TX816???
@@MJTIbes it just depends how many sounds you want to play simultaneously. The DX7II is enough if you layer as you go, but if you want the full experience, a TX816 is a blast to play. Just know that it’s a lot of work constantly sending it SysEx files! Honestly that’s why I created DX Dreams - it has all the big layered sounds I wanted from the TX816, and it sounds significantly better than the actual hardware because of all the hardware I recorded it through. All the hard work is done 😁
@@JimDaneker I'll rest my case :) Thnx Jim!
How do you avoid ground loop issues with all of that equipment?
Careful planning of AC cable routing, but it's a non-issue in a room like mine, where everything is fed from the same circuit. 😁
If you had to choose between a system-8 and a jupiter x, which one would it be for you? Is the Jupiter X soundwise not the same with a pletora of extra bells and whistles?
Man, that’s an extremely tough choice. They definitely aren’t the same as they use different “engines.” The S8 would be my choice if I wanted more vintage Roland synth sounds - it’s one of the best analog emulations on the market by a long shot. The JPX can certainly do that as well, but to me, it has more of a modern sound design focus - it’s like Roland threw their entire catalog in a box. I love them both!
@@JimDaneker also a really tough decision for me. I‘am on the fence to buy a s8 or a jupiter-x. I already have a roland cloud subscription. The main reason I use the subscription is because of the vintage rolandos. I could let go the subscription if i would get a s8. Otherwise i would love all the possibilities with a jupiter…man…at the end i will have both like you😂 Anyway, thanks for the video and your words. You have a new subscriber👍
@@superdisco101 very kind of you my friend - happy to help!
Thanks you so much for the tour! I've got a Juno-X that I really enjoy, been using it mostly like a 106. Been eyeing a Jupiter, but the prices are ridiculous. To me, an instrument isn't just about the sound; it's also about the workflow and the immediate inspiration it can provide. With that in mind, do you think the Jupiter X might be overkill for me, considering I can get the same sounds on the Juno X with the Jupiter engine? I hate menu diving to control synth parameters, so even though I could potentially install the Jupiter engine on my Juno, I doubt I'll bother.
Thanks for the kind words! Yeah, honestly, if you already have a Juno X then there's really no reason to add a Jupiter X. The only advantage it would have is the new 4-oscillator Jupiter X engine, but that wouldn't be enough to justify it, IMO. The Juno X is almost identical, and actually a bit easier to access everything.
@@JimDaneker thank you for your insight. It makes sense, I guess I’ll look elsewhere. Maybe the Polybrute, although I think Arturia might release a new beast of a synth this year so I’ll wait a bit more. Once again thank you so much, love your content.
@ thanks again for your kind words! 😁👊🏻
Are you using anything between you snyths and the Specular Tempus to adjust for sending line level into it?
Yes, an Ebtech line level shifter. I should have mentioned that but it’s buried in the rack so I forgot about it!
@@JimDaneker Awesome thanks! I recently got a Specular Tempus and Dreadbox Darkness and was looking for a good solution for that.
@@LunTwoThree those Ebtechs are great. They’ll convert balanced to unbalanced as well as -10 to +4 and vice versa!
Hope u cover all that gear up everyday.. dust baby dust ha
No way - I would spend half my life covering and uncovering 20 synths every day 😂
I have a really good HEPA filter that keeps the studio clean, and I clean them every few weeks on top of that. Not a problem in my 40+ years of synth work!
@@JimDaneker 🤣👍
I have owned and still own some vintage keyboards ... but many I have sold and am selling. Do you really find the keyboard versions of the DX e.g. to be that much better than a software emulation? BTW, I love looking at all the wonderful keys, but for me it was (and still is) all the maintenance. I STILL have keyboards that need to go into the shop (and most likely will go up for sale, e.g. and D6 clavinet). Anyway, thanks for the vid, I'm sure we have many mutual Nashville and music biz friends!
Hey Rob, thanks for the kind words. As for the DX's, it's not that the hardware versions are sonically better, it's more the visual inspiration and feel of those world class keybeds - those were my first loves as a teenager! And, of course the original DX7 just has that gritty lo-res punch; the software versions are too clean!
I could have bought a "new" D6 in 1995ish for $350, or it might have been $300. 😭
Hi Jim. May I ask which Yamaha digital audio unit you are planning to use instead of the 02R?
Sure! The TF series racks.
@@JimDaneker ah Nice!
@@JimDaneker I’ve been using a TF5 in my synth studio for a year or so now, and I just love it. Realistically it takes up too much space, but I don’t care. I just love it. 😊
@@RussNixon I totally get it 😁👍🏻
What brand are the smallest monitors you have, closest to the screen? Also curious about the large aura light you have to the right of the old room.
I talked about all the monitors near the end - there are chapter markers for each section. Those little ones are iLoud Micros. Love them! Not sure what you mean by aura light - you mean the ring light for video?
@@JimDaneker Thanks! Managed to video the entire hour. Great tour and lots of interesting info. Yes, meant the ring light.
@@Chicle777 gotcha. Just one I found on Amazon for $150 or so - I only use it for video stuff.
I believe he said ICloud Micro Monitors.
MpMidi controller, u said u were always looking for controllers. This looks like something u would love
I applaud you for using real hardware and synths. I know it takes more effort but it pays off in tone and fun! Need to get a pair of Zod Audio ID DI's to add to the tones you have going!
It’s definitely more fun! 😁👊🏻
Agree ref the system 8
Question for anybody.
I’m looking for two monitors that give you a true mix. Should I go with Yamaha MSP5 or Adam A7X?
Monitors are a very subjective choice, but for my taste, I'd go ADAMs ALL DAY LONG. They have a much higher resolution, better imaging, way better low end, etc. I actually have both, and the MSP5s are great for small "mix check" speakers, but they are nowhere near the same league as the ADAMs.
@@JimDaneker just picked up a pair of the Adams for $600. Couldn’t turn that down. That kind of made my decision for me🤷🏼♂️.
@@Musicofjonesey they're fantastic, and they get even better after they're burned in and open up a little bit!
@@JimDaneker finally got my Yamaha kx88 I’ve been after too. Pretty good day today! Gonna use your guy here in the ‘boro to tune it all up.
Hey Jim
I'm about to set up my studio again after many years 😎
And I'm strongly considering Standtastic Keyboard Stands, even though they can't be bought in Denmark/EU.
Have you tried the Standtastic wall "stand"?
Yeah, their wall pieces are the same as their regular stands. Great stuff! I hope they can sort out their international distribution soon!
@@JimDaneker It could be really nice 🙂 And I love the simple design.
Do you think it is possible to put synths like your new prophet stand, on the wall?
Which do you think is the most stable of these? Also sideways 🙄
@@kjensen7247 I’m not sure what you mean by “Prophet stand” or sideways?
@@JimDaneker Sorry 😬
With the Prophet stand i mean the stand 13:00 min. in the video :)
Sideways... when you play rock'n roll 😄 how stabel is it from side to side!?
@@kjensen7247 ah - that’s one of the Standtastic stands as well. All my stands are the same. Yes, they are very stable - much more so than anything else I’ve used over the years, unless you get into very expensive custom solutions ;-)
What keyboard stands are you using?
I talk about them at the end of the video - you must not have watched the whole thing 😁 Here's a dedicated link:
czcams.com/video/qyCgFfAR4sk/video.html
@@JimDaneker Apologies. I asked before I got to the end. Great info overall.
@@csu111 ha, no worries! So glad it was helpful, and thanks for the kind words!
No super 6? 😀
Nope - it's a great synth but nothing I can't get from what I already have. 😁
I’m in the beginning of making my own studio som I’m getting ready for headaches. But I was thinking of using my Roland Fantom 8 has center for my hardware synths, driving everything via the Fantom into DAW and the use my NI S88 for all software related stuff.
The Fantom is a BEAST!
@@JimDaneker it is absolutely 😊And I also have Jupiter X
@@JimDanekerhi Jim . I’ve just found this video and it’s really an amazing sight for sure .
I’m new to the synth world although I’ve been a keyboard player for 30 years ( Hammond B3).
I want to add a synth at my house . It’s purely for fun and entertaining
myself. Have you any suggestions for someone looking for their first synth. Btw I have heard the 3rd wave synth and it’s an amazing machine.
@@jeffconley819 whew, always a tough one to answer - depends on so many factors. Ultimately, you just have to find something that fits your budget and really inspires you… That's the most important thing!
@@JimDaneker I really don’t have a budget but a reasonable number would be under 4k new or used.
I’m retired early after 40 years in the medical industry. I’m really am a prog fan and experimental music ie: ozric tentacles . And of course old genesis and yes as well as Rick wakemen .
Passwords on post its?
Ha - I can’t remember offhand 😂
To comment on the access virus as a controller, I use the minilogue XD partially for that. Also pretty great to control Diva and others
Yep, the OG version was what got me back into the analog synth world several years ago, and it makes a fantastic controller!
You said they're all your favorites but what if you were forced to pick a handful that would be more favorite, what are top 3ish or so? I bought both the specular tempus and the standtastic 3 tier stand on your recommendation and have been very happy with both. I can attest that the arms of the stand can hold a lot because I have my Kronos 2 88 which I think is over 50 pounds along with a couple others. Also do you have any studio monitor recommendations in the $500-$700ish dollar range? I need to get a new set. I've seen others recommend the Yamaha HS ones.
Always a tough question! If I had to really go bare bones, I’d probably say Prophet 5 or Rev 2/16, System 8 or Jupiter X, and Hydrasynth or Waldorf Iridium.
As for affordable monitors, I really love ADAMs - their T series is tough to beat. JBLs would be a close second. Not a fan of those Yamahas - they’re really harsh and not pleasant to work on IMO.
@@JimDaneker thanks for the tip. I'll check them out. I've been eyeing the Waldorf Iridium since Matt Johnson did a video on it. It seems like it has a real uniqueness to it and I don't have any wave table synths. Currently I just have a Kronos 2 88 (got a ridiculous deal on it used), Jupiter-X, Matrix 6 and an OB-X8.
@@derekliljequist1086 you’re pretty well covered then! I like Iridium, but honestly it has extremely tough competition from vastly less expensive soft synths, like Omnisphere, etc. - not to mention Hydrasynth which is extremely compelling and also makes a killer controller with that poly aftertouch and ribbon controller…
My Jupiter-X randomly locks up. Once it just shut down cold while playing. Could not restart. Had to start in Program mode. Seems better after latest firmware upgrade, but Roland, you’ve lost my confidence in your ability to make reliable gear.
D50 to me aged well
Where do you get the synth images for your layout diagram?
Just pulled them off the web and threw them into photoshop.
@@JimDaneker Thank you
No one likes a show off.
Except me 😎
😅