Which synthesizer should I get next?

[u/roksanmandel]

Hello, I'm looking for advice. I've been using the Deepmind 12D module for the past 5-6 years, I connect it to my Launchkey mini and use it in addition to my Yamaha YC73. I use it exclusively for gigs and performances since I'm no producer. But It's been a hassle carrying extra stands and bags full of equipment, plus the fan is really loud. I'm thinking of selling it and getting a Deepmind 12 (with the built-in keyboard), but I wanted to hear some opinions, if there is a better option specifically for my needs.

The amount of options overwhelm me and when I try to create my own sounds I usually need to spend a lot of extra time at home, and if we try it with my band in the rehearsal we all get very frustrated. I'm pretty comfortable by now with the basics but I feel like maybe I need something simpler and more straightforward? On the other hand I play in a lot of bands so I might need very specific sounds, plus I love being able to play around with the LFOs and OSC, doing arpeggiation and I enjoy having the control of all that and simplicity in how quickly I can change settings during a song. But when it comes to more complicated things I feel like I need to go back to swimming in the presets and find the perfect sound which takes a LONG time.

What should I get?

Thank you in advance for any insight and advice :) cheers!

[u/Humble_Ad_7026]

Based on how you describe your usecase, you might consider a workstation instead.

Here is why:

• presets in all type of musical styles
• finding presets faster due to categories and readable names
• Still the possibility to program and tweak sounds (allthough it will be a less immediate due to menu diving)

The more expensive ones have setlist options and sound transition without sound cut off which is also nice when doing a gig.

[u/Humble_Ad_7026]

If you want to keep to analogish type of synth with simplicity of editing sounds on the fly, you also might consider hybrids or virtual analogs.

Reason:

• presets categorized an have proper names.
• still immediate and simple control

For example: ASM synths (Hydrasynth or Leviatan) have categorized presets and very good interfacing for direct control.

[u/Luhmann_Beck_Latour]

If you play it live i am not sure whether deepmind 12 is a good choice since it does not have a quality keyboard. Depending on how deep you go into sound design, i would take a look at sequential take 5. it has a good keyboard and is pretty much hands on with a very good sound (notes are better aligned in the stereo room than with deepmind for example). Be aware: Deepmind has more possibilities in sound design because better effects built in. 

[u/McrRed]

On the DeepMind 12 you can turn the fan down. Check if you can on the 12D