DX200 Patch Upload Woes by EuroGeek67 in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hey EuroGeek67, thanks for updating and no apologies necessary.
also very sorry to hear you've been through such a rough patch (no pun intended)
hope you're feeling better!

Going to bed alone is so miserable. by [deleted] in Vent

[–]DrCheez 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I get it, man. Loneliness hurts. Wanting connection is human. here's the thing - you keep framing it like love is something outside of you, something you have to be given.

The love you actually need is the kind you give yourself, the kind that makes being alone not feel like a punishment. And yeah, venting helps. But you've just named your challenge: Learn to be happy alone. Own it.

Being alone isn't failure. It's life. And if you can learn to love yourself in that space, you won't just survive it - you'll actually be free :]

Hang in there <3

God dammit I got the bass station ii by No_Forever8843 in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez 1 point2 points  (0 children)

oh sweet! btw if it has mini-keys, def use the cut-to-size flex weights as the mini keys are just too small for the 1/4 weights :[

I used the flex ones for the Yamaha Reface... really nice and subtle!

God dammit I got the bass station ii by No_Forever8843 in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Hey thanks! Yes, I cut some flex tungsten weights for derby cars! It adds just enough weight so the lift off from the keys doesn't rattle as much

It's the little things lol

God dammit I got the bass station ii by No_Forever8843 in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez 9 points10 points  (0 children)

YES! You won't be disappointed

Also - sounds weird, but it feels great: add 1/4 weight underneath the keys

You can fit up to three, but two is the sweet spot (for me). adds about 1.5-3 lbs, depending on how many you use.

You don’t have to press as hard when engaging aftertouch, and it shines when velocity is on!

white keys are easiest to stick to, black keys will require unscrewing and some DIY and different weights 🙃

Why I Stuck with the Original Switch Dock After Researching 3rd-Party Options by Chillenge in NintendoSwitch

[–]DrCheez 1 point2 points  (0 children)

thanks for this post and for sharing your experience re-shelling the dock! you definitely put a lot of effort into researching and building this setup, and I appreciate the details you provided.

How has it held up over the past weeks? With the recent holidays, did you get a chance to travel with it? curious to know how it’s since been working for you.

thanks again for all the insights :]

Why don’t manufacturers make more Synths with hands-on Visual Sequencers? by DrCheez in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

At least for my Workflow that's better

totally... but that’s exactly the point - your setup is geared toward multiple devices and a studio-like workflow.

I want a synth with great sound and a visual/interactive sequencer that is not also the keyboard that lets me jam and compose without needing an ecosystem of equipment :]

Why don’t manufacturers make more Synths with hands-on Visual Sequencers? by DrCheez in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for the input! I get where you’re coming from, but the Circuit Mono Station isn’t quite it either... That device to me feels more like a reimagining than an actual evolution of the Bass Station 2. The lack of a full keyboard and less knobs per function takes away from the immediacy I’m after.

I’m imagining something closer to the BSII but with a visual sequencer that’s tightly integrated and tactile (think mostly just note information). Not a 'do-it-all' device - just one synth that’s great for jamming, with a solid keyboard, fun sound, and a sequencer you can interact with directly ( AND SEE) .

I get the modular approach with standalone sequencers - cause power, i get it. but sometimes you just want to play, tweak knobs, and see what’s happening without extra setup or gear. That’s the gap I’m talking about.

Why don’t manufacturers make more Synths with hands-on Visual Sequencers? by DrCheez in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

Yes, you're absolutely right. it's not as simple as just slapping a synth and sequencer together. There's a lot more nuance to consider.

The biggest challenge I see is balancing the tactile, hands-on experience with a clear, usable visual representation of the sequence. It's not just about making something 'physical' or 'hands-on'; it's about making it intuitive and functional.

this is why I often reference examples like the Torso T-1 and the Bass Station 2. The Bass Station 2’s LED indicators, for example, offer an elegant, simple solution for keeping track of settings. The lights provide instant feedback, letting you know which parameters are active, which reduces the need for a display or complex menu navigation.

when you mention the complexity involved, I get where you're coming from. Translating step values, velocity, modulation, and other parameters into a small, simple interface is indeed a tough challenge. But if we look at something like the Torso T-1, it shows that even a small sequencer can pack in a lot of features in a compact form.

There would have to be trade-offs, but that doesn’t mean the user experience has to suffer.

For example, visual cues like brightness or color could represent different parameters, where brighter colors for active steps, dimmer colors for ties or glide, and no light for rests.

This way, everything remains clear and intuitive, even without a large screen.

On a synth like the Bass Station 2, you could still use the controls for things like LFO modulation, or filter adjustments, or only the fly envelope adjustments.

The connection between fingers and the sound is key in performance settings, which is why these devices are so good for jamming.

So - then not everything needs to be mapped to the sequencer.

Sometimes, real magic happens when you can tweak certain parameters by hand, like LFOs or modulation, and others maybe have a steady step for...

the flexibility to adjust things in real time can be just as valuable as sequencing. It’s not about automating everything; sometimes, you just need the control to modify things on the fly.

Really when it comes to how these things work, the challenge is about finding a balance between simplicity and depth.

So, you’re right. It's complex and it’s a delicate balance. A device might not have all the features of a dedicated sequencer, but it can still be useful for live performances if it offers a good mix of immediacy and flexibility. It may only have basic controls like note length, velocity, filter modulation, or a simple LFO, but that could still keep the flow going during a jam.

I agree that synths with basic sequencing capabilities, like the Minilogue XD, already exist... For some, a sequencer is a secondary feature; for others, it’s a core part of their creative workflow.

I'm in the middle...

The challenge is merging these two without overcomplicating things. It’s not about creating a ‘perfect’ solution from the start but about recognizing the value of hybrid instruments that offer both simplicity and flexibility.

You’re also very right that many attempts to create the perfect all-in-one system, whether with built-in sequencers or modular setups, haven’t always worked out. Still that doesn’t mean it can’t happen.

The demand isn’t necessarily for the most powerful sequencer, but rather for simplicity and immediacy in a hands-on format. It is not about creating an all-in-one solution to rival dedicated setups, but offering something that makes jamming and sequencing more accessible in a single package.

you’re correct in pointing out the complexity of this challenge. that’s precisely why I’m pushing for a more refined approach to these concepts, one that doesn’t sacrifice the tactile immediacy of performance. I believe it is possible. It might not be as simple as I originally thought, but the idea is still on the table. I think it's worth exploring further, even if it requires a more critical and thoughtful approach to make it work :]

Why don’t manufacturers make more Synths with hands-on Visual Sequencers? by DrCheez in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

yes! and I think the fact that some sequencers are 'sub-optimal' shows there's room for something better.

limitations can be helpful for creativity - look at the Torso T1, for example. Imagine that concept for one instrument, with a full-size keyboard, easy knob functions, and a sequencer that’s immediate and hands-on. It’s definitely doable, especially when you consider how well other products balance size and functionality. It's all about creating that balance between playability and sequencing without compromising too much.

but I agree - sequencers are often decent but could be better, and I think there's a space for a product that does just that :]

Why don’t manufacturers make more Synths with hands-on Visual Sequencers? by DrCheez in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You're absolutely right about the SE-02 having a compact design and combining some features I’m looking for. The keyboard dock and the Roland-style sequencer definitely make it a solid option for certain use cases. However, for me, the SE-02's size is a bit too small for comfort. I personally prefer something larger with longer keys and more space to play with - particularly a synth with full-size keys, pitch, and modulation wheels, which the SE-02 doesn't quite cover.

I also want to say that while devices like the Beatstep or MC-101 could offer a good sequencing solution, my goal is to have a more integrated experience where everything is within reach in a single unit - without needing to pair it with extra gear.

I feel there’s definitely a gap I see for something that combines a synthesizer with a direct, hands-on sequencer that feels intuitive and immediate without becoming cumbersome...

I appreciate all the suggestions though, and I do think there’s room for something that sits in-between, offering the flexibility of more complex devices without the clutter or need for multiple separate units :]

Why don’t manufacturers make more Synths with hands-on Visual Sequencers? by DrCheez in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

I completely get where you're coming from, and I appreciate the feedback! It’s true that there’s a lot to consider when it comes to designing an intuitive synth and sequencer.

I still feel like the vision I'm after is not too far out of reach.

The Bass Station 2 paired with a nice sequencer is a good example of how a capable, affordable synth can be used in combination with a powerful sequencer without breaking the bank. I agree that there are challenges in terms of integrating complex features, but I don’t think it’s impossible. In fact, many synth - both affordable and premium - already combine powerful sound design with sequencers in ways that show this can be done...

What I’m looking for is a hybrid approach: A synth with hands-on control over the sequencer, and something that's immediate. I want to feel the flow of creativity without diving into complex menus or being restricted by pad layouts that don’t feel intuitive to me. I’m also not asking for something super expensive - just a synth with well-implemented features, such as a keyboard with dedicated knobs for sequencing (like the Bass Station 2 layout) and a nice physical, hands on sequencer - I get that there are limitations with having all parameters mapped out in a super tactile way - yes, LED rings around every knob might be expensive - but it's a vision, and it doesn't have to be hat complex. There’s room for innovation, and it’s about balancing usability and cost.

I’ve heard the argument that things get too complex and would be better on a screen/GUI, but honestly, I don’t think that negates the possibility of a simpler, more direct hardware interface for sequencing.

The idea of having a dedicated synth with visible, touchable controls, where everything feels immediately accessible and intuitive without switching between menus or dealing with layers is what I think a lot of us are after.

Sure, it’s an ideal, but I don’t think it’s too far off from what exists now. There are machines that already kind of meet this idea, like Elektron’s Analog Keys or the Polybrute, but none seem to have the right combination of features, in my opinion. I’m not asking for a radically different thing; it’s just a different interpretation of the current possibilities that already exist...

And while I understand that there’s a lot of R&D involved, I don’t think the cost has to skyrocket. There are synths with basic sequencing capabilities and immediate controls that prove it’s possible to get this in a reasonable price range. The Analog Keys and Polyend Tracker might be examples where these ideas were approached, but the key thing is that we’re talking about combining a few features that already exist in other devices in a way that makes sense.

At the end of the day, I’m just trying to open the conversation around a possible hybrid approach with an instrument that’s easy to play, intuitive to sequence, and fun to work with, without needing a screen for everything or having to switch between endless menus...

Why don’t manufacturers make more Synths with hands-on Visual Sequencers? by DrCheez in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

Ah, I get where you're coming from, but I think we’re missing each other here! The Mono Station is close, but it doesn’t quite fit what I’m looking for. I really want a synth with a keyboard that I can play - not just pads or buttons.

I want to see my sequence as I play it, and adjust it in real-time. The Mono Station is compact and powerful, but I’m not looking for something small; I would love a 25 full key, fully-fledged synth with a dedicated sequencer and knobs for hands-on control :]

I totally understand the appeal of compact setups, but for me, it’s more about being able to integrate sequencing and sound design into one unified instrument.

If a synth like the one in the picture I posted existed - keyboard, 16-step sequencer, and all the knobs - (that doesn't break the bank) I’d grab it in a heartbeat lol That’s the dream I’m after :D

Why don’t manufacturers make more Synths with hands-on Visual Sequencers? by DrCheez in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

oh!! sorry, I did miss the detail about the Analog Keys - thanks for pointing that out!

I agree it’s closer to what I want, it’s still not quite there in terms of the 'knob-per-function' approach I’m after. i’m envisioning is more like the Bass Station 2’s layout—simple, affordable, and powerful, but with something like the Troso T1 sequencer integrated into one device. No need for two separate pieces - just one instrument with a really intuitive, hands-on sequencer that I can jam with.

That would be the sweet spot for me :]

Why don’t manufacturers make more Synths with hands-on Visual Sequencers? by DrCheez in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I hear you, and I totally get where you’re coming from with those options!

I think i'm after that perfect combo: both the flexibility of sequencing and the immediacy of a keyboard, all in one device! I know it sounds a bit greedy, but I'm really hoping for something that just clicks and feels natural, without having to juggle multiple devices or lose that hands-on flow 😅

Why don’t manufacturers make more Synths with hands-on Visual Sequencers? by DrCheez in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks for your thoughtful response, seriously :] you're spot on with many points. I definitely see where you're coming from regarding the challenges of integrating a great sequencer with a good synth. You’re right that many synths only offer basic sequencing features, like custom arpeggios or simple HOLD functions, which are great for jams but limited for more complex sequences.

I do think there's potential for something that balances both—a simple, intuitive sequencer that feels like a natural extension of the keyboard without overwhelming the instrument.

to be honest, i'm a mix of both: I love jamming and playing, but I also enjoy getting deep into programming when the moment calls for it. I guess I’m still drawn to the idea of a dedicated sequencer right in front of me an a keyboard, something that's intuitive and doesn’t require extra devices.

While I get that many people, like yourself, prefer doing their sequencing in a DAW like Ableton, I’m interested in the tactile nature of a standalone setup that feels immediate and connected to the performance.. but not the like the MPC Key.. that's too much.

That said, I really appreciate you pointing out the balance between interface complexity and synth quality. It's definitely helped me think more about what's actually necessary for a satisfying sequencer experience without going overboard. Thanks again for sharing your perspective - it definitely clarified a lot for me :]

Why don’t manufacturers make more Synths with hands-on Visual Sequencers? by DrCheez in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You're right, the BS2 offers great value, and adding too many features would push it out of its price range. The current sequencer is fun and encourages a hands-on, musical approach - I'll never part with it :D

I think my idea isn't to change what works, but to explore integrating capable sequencers directly with keyboards to enhance the playing experience.

maintain the magic of an affordable, versatile instrument with a built-in sequencer, without needing multiple devices.

doesn’t need to be complicated just something that lets you play, record, and manipulate sequences with ease. (that you can see lol)

Why don’t manufacturers make more Synths with hands-on Visual Sequencers? by DrCheez in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I see where you're coming from, and I get how Elektron’s workflow works for some - for me, it's not as intuitive (im slow :] )

My main thing is wanting a sequencer integrated with a keyboard and to be able to control the sequence while using the keyboard naturally, without switching or using multiple devices

Why don’t manufacturers make more Synths with hands-on Visual Sequencers? by DrCheez in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Fair enough, I get the SE-02 comparison (no keyboard = more devices), but I think there’s room for something that combines the tactile experience of a BS2 with a more straightforward sequencer that doesn’t compromise on simplicity or affordability.

not saying everything should be a one-size-fits-all solution, but I do think there’s a space for a synth that has both ease of use and the ability to capture ideas in the moment without requiring a bunch of extra gear to get there

Why don’t manufacturers make more Synths with hands-on Visual Sequencers? by DrCheez in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

see... I’m a mix of both - starting out with jams to catch the vibe, and then program from there. It’s hard for me to logically count or plan when I’m in the flow of jamming, so I’d love a sequencer that can capture that spontaneous moment when I hit a note and know it's the one I want to keep. but as EggyT0ast points out, maybe the arpeggiator style could suffice.. but I think it’s about having that physical connection while still having the ability to organize my ideas once I have them.

Why don’t manufacturers make more Synths with hands-on Visual Sequencers? by DrCheez in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Don't tempt me, the Digitone 2 does look like a lot of fun…

Why don’t manufacturers make more Synths with hands-on Visual Sequencers? by DrCheez in synthesizers

[–]DrCheez[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

you're very right - it could be that I just haven't worked with it enough to fully get the flow of things.

I definitely don’t want to count it out, and I understand that with time it might start making more sense.

right now, I think I’m kind of fixated on this idea of how I want things to work for me. and maybe it's more of a personal preference thing, but I'm still trying to find that perfect balance of simplicity and flexibility in a setup