Emu XL-7 & MP-7 User's Group

> In a way we have become too spoiled by the mutable, nearly liquid nature of
> MIDI production and its close cousin sample-loop/phrase based production.
> MIDI implies more things at once and so we accept less for each.  Or better
> stated we think we require more.

I agree, except in one detail. I understand what you mean by "mutable,
nearly liquid" but in some senses MIDI production adds a degree of
discreteness which gets in the way of the creative process. For
example, you are forced to think about notes and controllers as
separate kinds of data, and then think about interdependencies when
using them together - problems which don't occur in analogue
systems. And sample-based systems (PCM playback at least) lead to a
change of process which I don't like much: soundscaping all too easily
turns into a crap-shoot for the right sound. How many times have you
spun the data entry wheel on your XL-7 time after time, saying to
yourself, "nope, that one won't do..."

> The OASYS is an interesting choice, especially if you invest in learning the
> SynthKit.  Even without that it is capable of almost anything, provided you
> do multitrack audio recording one track at a time.

...or are *very* careful about resource allocation. Either way, I find
the Oasys a productive combination of very high quality instrument
models with a constrained, focussed working method.

> I'm curious, how would you complete the picture?  Controllers?  What
> software would you use along with it?

For the soundscaping work I'm doing at the moment (for live
performance, contemporary dance and so on) the software is Max/MSP,
and the control surface is a CM Automation Motor Mix. I also have a
Buchla Thunder which I really want to wheel out again - it's far too
long since I last used it.

-- 

  nick rothwell -- composition, systems, performance -- http://www.cassiel.com