IMO, the new Buchla 200e is an intermediary step between the Buchla 200 and
Buchla's digitally controlled 300/500 systems. Instead of controlling
modules from a master computer, each one has some circuitry inside to
capture parameters and store them.
Some limitations are inherent in this system. For the Triple Morphing
Filter, you can adjust one of the three filter parameters at a time, since
the control knobs are shared between all three filters. However, one can
also argue that complex functions from the Dual Arbitrary Function Generator
would require massive amounts of analog front panel hardware to duplicate
for real time control of every parameter.
IMHO, it boils down to the following, specific dollar amounts aside:
If you want real time control of every parameter, continue with your Serge,
MOTM or other analog modular. There are many module options for these
various systems not available on the current Buchla 200e. Example: the many
filter choices, so sonic character is another factor. Limited numbers of
programmable modules are here for those who want it: PSIM, Doepfer morphing
filter, etc.
If you want analog sound with a high degree of integrated programmability
and modular flexibility get the Buchla 200e.
If you want full programmability and patch retrieval with real time control
and interface as a secondary consideration, use one of the modular
softsynths such as Nord Modular, Reaktor or Moog Modular V. This is also
the choice for the budget conscious, for obvious reasons.
John Loffink
The Microtonal Synthesis Web Site
http://www.microtonal-synthesis.com
The Wavemakers Synthesizer Web Site
http://www.wavemakers-synth.com
Buchla's digitally controlled 300/500 systems. Instead of controlling
modules from a master computer, each one has some circuitry inside to
capture parameters and store them.
Some limitations are inherent in this system. For the Triple Morphing
Filter, you can adjust one of the three filter parameters at a time, since
the control knobs are shared between all three filters. However, one can
also argue that complex functions from the Dual Arbitrary Function Generator
would require massive amounts of analog front panel hardware to duplicate
for real time control of every parameter.
IMHO, it boils down to the following, specific dollar amounts aside:
If you want real time control of every parameter, continue with your Serge,
MOTM or other analog modular. There are many module options for these
various systems not available on the current Buchla 200e. Example: the many
filter choices, so sonic character is another factor. Limited numbers of
programmable modules are here for those who want it: PSIM, Doepfer morphing
filter, etc.
If you want analog sound with a high degree of integrated programmability
and modular flexibility get the Buchla 200e.
If you want full programmability and patch retrieval with real time control
and interface as a secondary consideration, use one of the modular
softsynths such as Nord Modular, Reaktor or Moog Modular V. This is also
the choice for the budget conscious, for obvious reasons.
John Loffink
The Microtonal Synthesis Web Site
http://www.microtonal-synthesis.com
The Wavemakers Synthesizer Web Site
http://www.wavemakers-synth.com
> -----Original Message-----
> From: John P [mailto:johnp299792@...]
>
> the Buchla's price carries a high premium for its rarity. The sound
> quality is great I'm sure, but a lot of the 200e design is devoted to
> patch storage & midi stuff I just don't need or want.
>
> darylmey wrote:
>
> >So, let`s play a game:
> >You have a 10.000 $ Serge and some other "spare" 10 k .....
> >Now: supposed you can sell your Serge - what would you do:
> >Buy that new Push-up-Wonder-B(uchl)ra for 20 k or you keep your old
> >faith and buy some supplements (kyma, cynthia etc ....)????
> >