What do you think of the Cobalt? 🤔 Want to grab one for yourself? Find it here! (affiliate links) Cobalt 8m: bit.ly/3yGPhQM Cobalt 8: bit.ly/2QU3zfE Cobalt 8x: bit.ly/3yJl03u
I bought 8X one a month ago and i must say this is lovely synth. I do miss some stuff like filter drive, envelopes modulating cutoff and maybe phase mod algorithm. But that is just nitpicking. It is great for ambient cinematic sounds, lush leads and it does really great analog emulation (VA).
I sold mine and my Argon8M too. I don't think they above and beyond premium softsynths and I didn't like the hardware workflow (coming from 17 years of using software exclusively). YMMV.
@@BappinProductions well hardware synth is just more expensive toy. You can do a lot more with soft synth than hardware. But the beauty is that limiting factor and how to overcome it when you design a sound and physical knobs (also when a sound comes from an engine). Diva and Tal Uno vst sound more analog than a real analog synth. It is just what you prefer and if you can afford it. Only hardware synths close to all around vst capabilties cost more than 2000 euros. Waldorf (iridium, kyra etc...) access virus, dave smith (ob 6 and prophet 6) etc... it just comes to what makes you happy and if you can afford it
I got the Argon8M - after selling my Make Noise O-Coast as I just started with synths and I hated that I couldn't ever re-create a sound because there was no "save" button for a preset and I would have to take a picture of the knobs and cables to get back there (after fiddling with knobs again for half an hour), and also the O-Coast was only monophonic, which sucks, even though it's sooooo analogue. I love the Modal App as it makes transparent and visible to me what some of the knobs really do, I always keep it open in the background for that reason, even when playing with some knobs (which I only just recently started after understanding through the app and looking as a couple of presets what everything does). I like that everything sounds good on the Argon … but that's also one of the biggest drawbacks: I would also like to get some "nasty and mean" sounds out of it. I just bought some presets which come closer to that - Soundsauca's Daydrifta and The Sound Gardxn's Disintegration - so being a noob who's sometimes overwhelmed with all the knobs this is a great alternative to get into stuff. Maybe do a quick review of some preset libraries for the Argon and Cobalt … no ultraboring "every single one of the 100 presets, no talking", but maybe just a "hey, I looked at these, I really liked that and that bit, is it worth the money if you're new to this stuff?". I'd love to see a video like that. Guy Mitchelmore does this a lot on CZcams for symphony orchestra libraries, it's like "here's a whole orchestra, let's pick a few samples and try to make it into a song, check wether it sounds good and then considerate the value for money". I also just started using pedal effects - for example the Eventide Ultratap does AWESOME things with the Argon8M, I use it on pretty much everything now, also the Empress Reverb does a somewhat better job than the built-in reverb. So there's another video idea how to change the "always appealing" sound of the Modal synths. Anyway, love your channel, it's sooo well done (Though I still find that smooth radio commentator voice very irritating, in the beginning I really thought your videos were dubbed and I'm still looking for lip sync issues 😂)
I got the 8X version as a present for my 40th birthday (midlife synthesis so to speak) and I love it. It's my only hardware synth, so not much comparisions that I can make but so far I love everything about it. Including the fact that's is basically a perfect controller for every virtual analogue software synth.
What's great about Modal is that they listen. About every con you (and more CZcamsrs and users) named is fixed in v2.0 firmware. More manufacturers should listen to their users like that. Time for a 'After 1 year' video? I would actually like that as a videoformat for many products. Tracing development and instead of initial release.
So true. The problem is, it would require a reviewer to use the synth at least from time to time during this period. It's quite a bit of work given the amount of products released. But still, I love such kind of videos. Also, it's always somehow comforting to see someone use a piece of gear for a long period of time, despite of new shiny things coming out every week.
I think it sounds awesome - especially the opening jam. I'd pay to listen to a whole album of stuff like this. Gorgeous sound. Beautifully shot and produced as well sir! @26:24 that pad is sweet.
My Cobalt 8M came in the other day, and I've been having an absolute blast with it. The "Baltica" sound bank (offered for free) by Soundsauca is legit as well.
Wow! Beautiful machine! Sounds very similar to the Waldorf Q but finally an affordable one :) As always, fantastic video! I could listen to your voice forever
Some excellent thoughts on the Cobalt in this video. I agree with a lot of the criticisms, but also like that you mentioned that a lot (if not all) of the shortcomings can be addressed via an update. As someone who owns an Argon, I also want one of these. Looking forward to where Modal goes with all of this. Thanks for the video, Mr. Cameron!
This looks like a very nice addition to the modal product line, just recently picked up the craft synth 2.0 to get a personal taste of their sound and so far have been very pleased aside from the few times I’ve had to reset the firmware. I’m guessing something higher in quality from them would be less likely to have this issue as frequently, but all in all, they continue to impress with their very user friendly designs as well as their simple but very helpful visual displays as well (especially with the modal app). Nice video!
Great review - thanks! I agree, Modal should add Drive feature to the filter, hopefully with firmware in near future. Cobalt8 is a very friendly synth, but one things annoys me: lack of independent noise generator. To add noise, you have to sacrifice one of the oscillator engines, which sucks, but hey, it's an affordable synth that is fun to use so we shouldn't complain too much :-) Still, I'm hoping they do something about that in the future firmware.
I really like that color! And I almost clicked the [BUY] button, but decided not to (at least not yet), as I already own a Peak and I'm under the impression they play in the same ball park. (Are they?) The second reason is, I also got a Hydrasynth and I haven't even scratched the surface of it's possibilities (which is a lot!). I totally love that synth!
re: VST in a box -- "outside of modular" -- VCV Rack. Even has a lot of the popular modules implemented in software. Mutable, Vult, Instruo, etc. VCV 2 will come with a VST host version of itself.
Amazing intro, really into it, I mean deep into it...and then I see the protective screen tag and my mind shuts down, like it’s a Saturday Night Live commercial, but it’s not, and I can’t hear anything, just wonder why it is there, was it a loaner or something... I have to tell myself it’s ok, then back into the groove and you are really selling the hell out of this thing! Seriously, is it me? Am I the only one? What’s wrong with me?
When ever looking for Gear or Software, your Videos always my first choice. Once again Tnx Cameron. QUestion - Is the Joystick usable for Pitchbend or just any X/Y Fader, as longtime Korg user im used to Stick rather than Wheel
I'm using an Argon 8 and a Mininova ! I'm having a great time cos the Mininova goes great with the Argon 8. I suppose it always comes down to familiarity, editing and external effects. I enjoyed this excellent video Thank you
I hope the company survives. Just bought a used Cobalt 8m adding to my virtual analog collection. It looks and feels like a modern version of the concept.
I got one and is sound great and easy to create new sounds little bid difficult with the arp but the software makes up for it. love the Keybed as a lot of new synth do not have a good keybed in this price range
This reminds me i need to hook up my access virus TI desktop again. Its been sitting in a hardcase for a year and a half. The cobalt has some nice warmth. Ive pretty much sworn off hardware ( my Access being an exception) and have converted my hardware/ gear addiction into just software lust. I originally bought the Virus for its vst plugin ability, but sadly it never lived up to its potential. Between instability every time Ableton upgraded or Access upgraded it was far too often too frustrating to use.
What about compared to the Uno Pro or the Norand? 🤓 Just kidding really. Nice review. I just picked up a totally digital Modor NF-1 to add a different critter to the farm and I'm not disappointed - and I love analog and tubes.
great video mate , I'm considering getting this or Korg Modwave .Obviously they're 2 different animals but similar at the same time. What's your opinion on this ?
I'd say I'd agree that they're just really too different to compare haha. Both would be solid choices though but perhaps the Modwave would offer a bit more versatility if you were really into deeper sound programming.
So what would be the difference between getting something like this and the Arturia V collection and controlling it with my keystep37? Thats my main issue with buying a digital synth. Its like im too cheap to buy it because its like software with a prepackaged controller, but im also too cheap to buy software because its too expensive for not being a analog synth.. I bought the korg monologue when it first came out and about four months later i was ready for something else musically, polyphonic, like... (a playstation 4..) I just wasnt able to get what i wanted out of a mono-synth. But really enjoyed my korg volca fm. I really like the old fm sounds. And I also have some inner connection with certain old prophet sounds that im unable to get with anything else. But i also appreciate the modular offerings because i dont need keys. And also like that the Modals are made in the uk, etc etc.. maybe i should try a Mono-poly.. :/
Hi. What's going on with the create a sequence section, are you recording an arp? I've never used the sequencer or arp really on my cobalt 8 as I just sequence from my deluge but I want to start using the arp as it seems much better than the deluge arp. This demo is very good, I came straight from red means recording, he's just done one, I'm enjoying this just as much.
Yo! Recording a sequence, as well as recording the 4 animation lanes. Similar to automation in the DAW, the Cobalt allows you to record movements of up to 4 parameters. You can even just record animations and no notes to create super interesting evolving patches and play whatever you want under the 'sequence'!
So its filter isn't the best. Great filters are great but aren't everything. I really like the sound of this. With its Fatar kerbed (not to mention a nice flat space on the right as a shelf for something) I'm thinking this would be a good thing to have at the centre of a setup. Dawless or otherwise - digital otherwise.
Hello. Tell me please is it possible to record four tracks of full-fledged tracks from one cobalt 8 synthesizer using a controller such as arturia beatstep or keystep pro, like in a DAW? thank you
Certainly makes me excited to see what Modal is planning next for their metal series. This feels like a successor of sorts to the Virus TI but also certainly it’s own thing!
Excellent intro and incredibly informative! I'm also knocked out by the tremendous production values of the video. It pains me a bit to feel compelled to offer some negative feedback on something that you've clearly put a lot of effort into: the way you have your voiceover mic'd and possibly eq'd. Maybe I'm in the minority of your audience, but the "close-mic'd" low talking, with huge emphasis on the bass frequencies, make you sound a bit like you're narrating an action movie trailer (e.g., "In a world"). It's distracting and I have trouble tuning it out and focusing on the content. My advice would be to pull back and aim for a natural, balanced tone. Because literally everything else about your production quality is right up there with the best of CZcams. Cheers and thanks again for this great review of the Cobalt 8.
Pretty new to synths and after watching the video I still don't understand why it's special and what it provides except knobs in comparison to VST synths.
It's not, but that's the same with most hardware today. There are more then enough VSTs that perfectly mimic the hardware they were made from. You really don't need any hardware if you don't want to record acoustic instruments of some kind. The only difference is that it feels good to use one, that's why people buy hardware in 2021.
@@florianrachor7796 that’s like saying, "why do people still buy guitars when the vst's are so good?" Because playing an instrument is completely different to drawing in midi. Saying it's just knobs is like saying, it's just strings for a guitar.
If you're happy sitting behind a computer to make music, use VST synths. If, like me, you want to get away from the computer and make music, buy hardware synths.
Iam own both: Minilougue XD sounds warmer, more analog, has better effects and has a third (user) oscillator; the Cobalt8 sound more digital, but in a good way, you can get some unheard sounds out of it, the effects are mediocre, but the key bed is fantastic!
Only the digital parts of your matrixbrute can get an upgrade. Analog parts have nothing to do with firmware. So if you see something changed on your brute by a fiirmware update rest assured that something ain’t analog.
Can you recommend some to check out ? I’m totally new to synths. Love the sounds from synths. I’ve been playing guitar for 20 years so I’m looking to synths for new sounds
Yep, played them many times actually. Cobalt is certainly more capable, but realistically so is pretty much any other synth released in the last 20 years. The broader point being it's not going to dethrone something with the status and regard of the Juno.
@@thesatoriconnection2623 it's cheaply built. It's underpowered. The software is poorly designed. The filters are incredibly inaccurate. The filter doesn't self resonate. The midi port isn't powered. The only part that emulates analog behavior is oscillator drift, which can be done with an LFO routed to pitch on any synth. I could go on and on about how bad of a synth it is for the price. Do yourself a favor and get the Hydrasynth instead.
What do you think of the Cobalt? 🤔
Want to grab one for yourself? Find it here!
(affiliate links)
Cobalt 8m: bit.ly/3yGPhQM
Cobalt 8: bit.ly/2QU3zfE
Cobalt 8x: bit.ly/3yJl03u
I bought 8X one a month ago and i must say this is lovely synth. I do miss some stuff like filter drive, envelopes modulating cutoff and maybe phase mod algorithm. But that is just nitpicking. It is great for ambient cinematic sounds, lush leads and it does really great analog emulation (VA).
I sold mine and my Argon8M too. I don't think they above and beyond premium softsynths and I didn't like the hardware workflow (coming from 17 years of using software exclusively). YMMV.
@@BappinProductions well hardware synth is just more expensive toy. You can do a lot more with soft synth than hardware. But the beauty is that limiting factor and how to overcome it when you design a sound and physical knobs (also when a sound comes from an engine). Diva and Tal Uno vst sound more analog than a real analog synth. It is just what you prefer and if you can afford it. Only hardware synths close to all around vst capabilties cost more than 2000 euros. Waldorf (iridium, kyra etc...) access virus, dave smith (ob 6 and prophet 6) etc... it just comes to what makes you happy and if you can afford it
I got the Argon8M - after selling my Make Noise O-Coast as I just started with synths and I hated that I couldn't ever re-create a sound because there was no "save" button for a preset and I would have to take a picture of the knobs and cables to get back there (after fiddling with knobs again for half an hour), and also the O-Coast was only monophonic, which sucks, even though it's sooooo analogue.
I love the Modal App as it makes transparent and visible to me what some of the knobs really do, I always keep it open in the background for that reason, even when playing with some knobs (which I only just recently started after understanding through the app and looking as a couple of presets what everything does). I like that everything sounds good on the Argon … but that's also one of the biggest drawbacks: I would also like to get some "nasty and mean" sounds out of it.
I just bought some presets which come closer to that - Soundsauca's Daydrifta and The Sound Gardxn's Disintegration - so being a noob who's sometimes overwhelmed with all the knobs this is a great alternative to get into stuff. Maybe do a quick review of some preset libraries for the Argon and Cobalt … no ultraboring "every single one of the 100 presets, no talking", but maybe just a "hey, I looked at these, I really liked that and that bit, is it worth the money if you're new to this stuff?". I'd love to see a video like that. Guy Mitchelmore does this a lot on CZcams for symphony orchestra libraries, it's like "here's a whole orchestra, let's pick a few samples and try to make it into a song, check wether it sounds good and then considerate the value for money".
I also just started using pedal effects - for example the Eventide Ultratap does AWESOME things with the Argon8M, I use it on pretty much everything now, also the Empress Reverb does a somewhat better job than the built-in reverb. So there's another video idea how to change the "always appealing" sound of the Modal synths.
Anyway, love your channel, it's sooo well done (Though I still find that smooth radio commentator voice very irritating, in the beginning I really thought your videos were dubbed and I'm still looking for lip sync issues 😂)
I got the 8X version as a present for my 40th birthday (midlife synthesis so to speak) and I love it. It's my only hardware synth, so not much comparisions that I can make but so far I love everything about it. Including the fact that's is basically a perfect controller for every virtual analogue software synth.
What's great about Modal is that they listen. About every con you (and more CZcamsrs and users) named is fixed in v2.0 firmware. More manufacturers should listen to their users like that. Time for a 'After 1 year' video? I would actually like that as a videoformat for many products. Tracing development and instead of initial release.
So true. The problem is, it would require a reviewer to use the synth at least from time to time during this period. It's quite a bit of work given the amount of products released. But still, I love such kind of videos. Also, it's always somehow comforting to see someone use a piece of gear for a long period of time, despite of new shiny things coming out every week.
Wow that intro, video crisp and professional as always
Definitely agree that more synths should come with VSTs. If Moog can do it, so can other brands.
I agree with this though I’m a bit weary after losing software control of my Nord Modular, Waldorf Micro Q and my Roland SE-02 :(
I think it sounds awesome - especially the opening jam. I'd pay to listen to a whole album of stuff like this. Gorgeous sound. Beautifully shot and produced as well sir! @26:24 that pad is sweet.
My Cobalt 8M came in the other day, and I've been having an absolute blast with it. The "Baltica" sound bank (offered for free) by Soundsauca is legit as well.
Been loving the cobalt 8x, spent at least 200 hours on it and it just never gets old.
I love that opening song. A one year after video with your view on firmware v2 would be great.
Wow! Beautiful machine! Sounds very similar to the Waldorf Q but finally an affordable one :)
As always, fantastic video! I could listen to your voice forever
Some excellent thoughts on the Cobalt in this video. I agree with a lot of the criticisms, but also like that you mentioned that a lot (if not all) of the shortcomings can be addressed via an update. As someone who owns an Argon, I also want one of these. Looking forward to where Modal goes with all of this. Thanks for the video, Mr. Cameron!
Jeeeeesus Christ that intro track tho!!!! DO WANT!!!!
This looks like a very nice addition to the modal product line, just recently picked up the craft synth 2.0 to get a personal taste of their sound and so far have been very pleased aside from the few times I’ve had to reset the firmware. I’m guessing something higher in quality from them would be less likely to have this issue as frequently, but all in all, they continue to impress with their very user friendly designs as well as their simple but very helpful visual displays as well (especially with the modal app). Nice video!
Great sounds and great build quality also.
Wow that keys sound at 13:20 is tooo goood
Pair the 8X up with a Deepmind 12D and you may experience heaven.
Without the actual death bit.
Hopefully.
Great review - thanks!
I agree, Modal should add Drive feature to the filter, hopefully with firmware in near future. Cobalt8 is a very friendly synth, but one things annoys me: lack of independent noise generator.
To add noise, you have to sacrifice one of the oscillator engines, which sucks, but hey, it's an affordable synth that is fun to use so we shouldn't complain too much :-) Still, I'm hoping they do something about that in the future firmware.
I really like that color! And I almost clicked the [BUY] button, but decided not to (at least not yet), as I already own a Peak and I'm under the impression they play in the same ball park. (Are they?)
The second reason is, I also got a Hydrasynth and I haven't even scratched the surface of it's possibilities (which is a lot!). I totally love that synth!
The Peak has a great filter, tho’ …
YOU HAVE THE BEST RADIO FRIENDLY VOICE I'VE EVER HEARD. OH AND BY THE WAY YOUR VIDS ARE GREAT !!
For those who's wondering, the logo hits the upper left corner at 7:00.
DVD
I use my Cobalt 8 in conjunction with iPad app, perfect setup.
U had me at opener;). I have one too! Can’t wait to see what you’ll share;)
No where near close enough to change my mind on getting a Hydrasynth.
Loved your 2 videos on the Hydra by the way.
Awsome.
love the intro jam 🤍
What are your thoughts RE filters and effects after firmware v2?? It may address some of your first impressions. Would love an updated video on this.
Any Plans to test out the new V2? I wonder how you feel/see the cobalt 8 now with the new Version.
I had to buy one..it sounds awesome and is easy for a beginner ike myself to use. I'm hearing these sounds everywhere ...
Excellent track!
re: VST in a box -- "outside of modular" -- VCV Rack. Even has a lot of the popular modules implemented in software. Mutable, Vult, Instruo, etc. VCV 2 will come with a VST host version of itself.
Still waiting for the vst version
Love the patch at 13:50 ish mark. I mean they all sound fab. though
03:45 you can recognize a good synthesizer by a good pad :)
Everything is better with reverb.
Just Love The Sounds Of Them Modal's Mate
Venus,man you have to check ▽'s new album with vsn7 . you gonna love it for sure (if u don't know him yet)
These days, virtual analog sounds like analog.
I think this sounds less like actual analog, than an MS2000 …
Now that the Minifreak is a thing, I wonder how you'd compare/contrast it with the Cobalt 8.
I would like a comparison as well. Ease of use, sound quality, etc.
I’ve owned 2 Juno 60’s, this synth kicks it’s arse
lol … not for actual analog sound/tone, it doesn’t!
Amazing intro, really into it, I mean deep into it...and then I see the protective screen tag and my mind shuts down, like it’s a Saturday Night Live commercial, but it’s not, and I can’t hear anything, just wonder why it is there, was it a loaner or something... I have to tell myself it’s ok, then back into the groove and you are really selling the hell out of this thing! Seriously, is it me? Am I the only one? What’s wrong with me?
When ever looking for Gear or Software, your Videos always my first choice. Once again Tnx Cameron. QUestion - Is the Joystick usable for Pitchbend or just any X/Y Fader, as longtime Korg user im used to Stick rather than Wheel
I'm using an Argon 8 and a Mininova ! I'm having a great time cos the Mininova goes great with the Argon 8. I suppose it always comes down to familiarity, editing and external effects.
I enjoyed this excellent video Thank you
5:55
"and say hey Im a trance dj"
In my heart...it never really left. :P
i prefer the sound of this one, for sure
I hope the company survives. Just bought a used Cobalt 8m adding to my virtual analog collection. It looks and feels like a modern version of the concept.
I got one and is sound great and easy to create new sounds little bid difficult with the arp but the software makes up for it.
love the Keybed as a lot of new synth do not have a good keybed in this price range
This reminds me i need to hook up my access virus TI desktop again. Its been sitting in a hardcase for a year and a half. The cobalt has some nice warmth. Ive pretty much sworn off hardware ( my Access being an exception) and have converted my hardware/ gear addiction into just software lust. I originally bought the Virus for its vst plugin ability, but sadly it never lived up to its potential. Between instability every time Ableton upgraded or Access upgraded it was far too often too frustrating to use.
I like these latest Modal units … but they both sound very digital … At least the Argon doesn’t pretend to be anything but; so it would be my choice!
What about compared to the Uno Pro or the Norand? 🤓 Just kidding really. Nice review. I just picked up a totally digital Modor NF-1 to add a different critter to the farm and I'm not disappointed - and I love analog and tubes.
Nice. Got a Skulpt Se, too get use to the sound. I I could afford, it would be nice.
great video mate , I'm considering getting this or Korg Modwave .Obviously they're 2 different animals but similar at the same time. What's your opinion on this ?
I'd say I'd agree that they're just really too different to compare haha. Both would be solid choices though but perhaps the Modwave would offer a bit more versatility if you were really into deeper sound programming.
hey you treat that joystick not so rough mister! yeah gentle...
So what would be the difference between getting something like this and the Arturia V collection and controlling it with my keystep37? Thats my main issue with buying a digital synth. Its like im too cheap to buy it because its like software with a prepackaged controller, but im also too cheap to buy software because its too expensive for not being a analog synth.. I bought the korg monologue when it first came out and about four months later i was ready for something else musically, polyphonic, like... (a playstation 4..) I just wasnt able to get what i wanted out of a mono-synth. But really enjoyed my korg volca fm. I really like the old fm sounds. And I also have some inner connection with certain old prophet sounds that im unable to get with anything else. But i also appreciate the modular offerings because i dont need keys. And also like that the Modals are made in the uk, etc etc.. maybe i should try a Mono-poly.. :/
If you don't want to get away from the computer, go with Arturia.
Minilogue [XD] would have been a logical next step from the Monologue … ?
Hi. What's going on with the create a sequence section, are you recording an arp? I've never used the sequencer or arp really on my cobalt 8 as I just sequence from my deluge but I want to start using the arp as it seems much better than the deluge arp.
This demo is very good, I came straight from red means recording, he's just done one, I'm enjoying this just as much.
Yo! Recording a sequence, as well as recording the 4 animation lanes.
Similar to automation in the DAW, the Cobalt allows you to record movements of up to 4 parameters. You can even just record animations and no notes to create super interesting evolving patches and play whatever you want under the 'sequence'!
Did the v2 firmware fix any of the issues you have with the quality of the filter?
Wow, where can I download Intro Jam track?
Glad you liked it! Not available anywhere currently, but maybe I'll release it one day!
VA was never gone in the first place. With VA you actually get stuff done in contrary to what the analog fanatics are doing.
So its filter isn't the best. Great filters are great but aren't everything. I really like the sound of this. With its Fatar kerbed (not to mention a nice flat space on the right as a shelf for something) I'm thinking this would be a good thing to have at the centre of a setup. Dawless or otherwise - digital otherwise.
After three days, the usb port died, the display with dead pixels, besides, it's a great synthesizer.
Yo V-do the ‘Badonkadonk Boogie’ in Am with a slow fade into ‘Ya Gotta Lubya Baybee Wid Ya Tail Wrapped Tight!’ in F# mixalodian!
I need to know this before I buy it: does the logo ever hit the corner?
Hello. Tell me please is it possible to record four tracks of full-fledged tracks from one cobalt 8 synthesizer using a controller such as arturia beatstep or keystep pro, like in a DAW? thank you
Are you only using built in effects on the "Howdy/ Meet Cobalt" section of the video?
As noted there, it's using Valhalla Supermassive for the reverb. The rest was Cobalt!
Internal FX on these are not so bueno
Mortal Combat 8
Certainly makes me excited to see what Modal is planning next for their metal series. This feels like a successor of sorts to the Virus TI but also certainly it’s own thing!
Excellent intro and incredibly informative! I'm also knocked out by the tremendous production values of the video. It pains me a bit to feel compelled to offer some negative feedback on something that you've clearly put a lot of effort into: the way you have your voiceover mic'd and possibly eq'd. Maybe I'm in the minority of your audience, but the "close-mic'd" low talking, with huge emphasis on the bass frequencies, make you sound a bit like you're narrating an action movie trailer (e.g., "In a world"). It's distracting and I have trouble tuning it out and focusing on the content. My advice would be to pull back and aim for a natural, balanced tone. Because literally everything else about your production quality is right up there with the best of CZcams. Cheers and thanks again for this great review of the Cobalt 8.
no distortion?! come on... why isn't there an all in one option on the hardware synth market? it's frustrating hehe
I’d like to add a “first synth” - I’m thinking this or the Kong minilogue xd desktop…. I have a keystep… any suggestions? Thanks.
Minilogue XD, for mine … actual analog AND some digital
How many different sounds you can layer in a sequence ?
The sequencer is monotimbral, so it's only one sound per sequence and doesn't offer anything like parameter lock per-step.
420 views hell yeah earth vibes
I hear a lot of similarities to the Arturia Polybrute (wich ive played recently)
Yes - Polybrute is bright-sounding, and lacks the power/‘heft’ of other VCO analog synths, it seems to me …
Fantastic synth. The only weak point is the filter.
What's wrong about the filter?
@@gffg387 It is to weak compared to my other synths (Moog, Arp 2600, Rocket, Werkstatt,Tal sampler etc). A lack of aggressiveness
@@laboratorioincognito9420 yeah, but weak how?
Is argon/cobalt 8 multitimbral?
Hello from Tallinn 🇪🇪🔥
Could you make a new video stream of v1. 1 update sound engine possibilities please ? Fm and Am modulations? 🙏 Thank you
I'll note it down!
Pretty new to synths and after watching the video I still don't understand why it's special and what it provides except knobs in comparison to VST synths.
So you should stick to vsts. This is for people that know what to do with it.
It's not, but that's the same with most hardware today. There are more then enough VSTs that perfectly mimic the hardware they were made from. You really don't need any hardware if you don't want to record acoustic instruments of some kind. The only difference is that it feels good to use one, that's why people buy hardware in 2021.
@@florianrachor7796 that’s like saying, "why do people still buy guitars when the vst's are so good?"
Because playing an instrument is completely different to drawing in midi. Saying it's just knobs is like saying, it's just strings for a guitar.
For me HW provides a change to play an instrument without staring at the computer screen. That's why I like hardware synths.
If you're happy sitting behind a computer to make music, use VST synths.
If, like me, you want to get away from the computer and make music, buy hardware synths.
is it multitumbral?
Unfortunately no but hopefully Modal adds that in a future product!
I want to buy my first hardware synth, I just cant decide between this CobaltM and the Korg Minilogue XD : somebody please help me !
I’m in the exact same situation! Really would be nice to have a comparison video.
@@stefanelf7794 Well… just bought the Cobalt8M : what made the difference ? Impatience 😅 Minilogues are out of stock everywhere until end of August 🤪
There is an excellent comparison guys! Starsky Carr did it! :)
Iam own both: Minilougue XD sounds warmer, more analog, has better effects and has a third (user) oscillator; the Cobalt8 sound more digital, but in a good way, you can get some unheard sounds out of it, the effects are mediocre, but the key bed is fantastic!
Deepmind 12
And it's now 200 dollars more in price.....
My MatrixBrute has firmware updates. =)
Only the digital parts of your matrixbrute can get an upgrade. Analog parts have nothing to do with firmware. So if you see something changed on your brute by a fiirmware update rest assured that something ain’t analog.
@@wetfishtail6 Well I know that =)
@@lucid484 😊
I think they sound great, but they have a lot of competition from synths in that price range that can do as much and more.
Can you recommend some to check out ? I’m totally new to synths. Love the sounds from synths. I’ve been playing guitar for 20 years so I’m looking to synths for new sounds
I love this synth, everything BUT that candy-ass display. Cobalt is suffering from Korg-itis.
"Not as good as the Juno--far from it". LOL Have you ever played a Juno? It's great but nowhere near as capable as the Cobalt8. Keep playing!
Yep, played them many times actually. Cobalt is certainly more capable, but realistically so is pretty much any other synth released in the last 20 years.
The broader point being it's not going to dethrone something with the status and regard of the Juno.
I have this synth and I just do not like it at all.
I'm about to make this my main keyboard. Please tell me why.
@@thesatoriconnection2623 it's cheaply built. It's underpowered. The software is poorly designed. The filters are incredibly inaccurate. The filter doesn't self resonate. The midi port isn't powered. The only part that emulates analog behavior is oscillator drift, which can be done with an LFO routed to pitch on any synth. I could go on and on about how bad of a synth it is for the price. Do yourself a favor and get the Hydrasynth instead.
@@chrisstaubyn774 I have to agree with you. I absolutely love the Hydrasynth! I have tried the Cobalt in the store a few times; doesn’t do it for me.
Sounds a bit thin. Not comparable to JP-8 or a Moog. Without reverberation, weaknesses are revealed to you.
Bruh
@@autumnbrushtail why bruh
Eye roll.
@@ileryon4019 because y'all keep complaining about synths. Could you just... Not?
I have watched every patch videos about the Cobalt 8 and it really shines with deep pads and mellow keys imo