Recommend me a hardware synth!

[register]

Hey everyone,
I'm looking for a digital hardware keyboard synth to replace the softsynths my band is currently using live. At the moment we're using several different softsynths, changing patch between them using the instrument rack chain, however it does seem to be a little tempremental, occationally crashing. It hasn't crashed live yet, but sometimes in practices, which scares the shit out of me. So here's my criteria for a synth-
-vanguard / nexus -esq trancey leads
-fat saw detune glide leads
-8 bit style lo fi squares
-if possible tempo sync via midi for tempo synth delays
-built in EQ for subtle mixing

Is there anything out there that covers these bases? I've been looking at the Alesis Micron, though I'm not sure if its capable of the trancey leads.
I'd really appreciate any help.
thanks
Tom

[Poster]

Virus = tarnce

*ducks*

[Khazul]

Sounds like you want a Virus B/C/TI.

[evernaut]

Maybe use em as standalones on a separate lappy rather than within Live? Possibly a cheaper solution than buying synth hardware if you already have softies.

[Lux Libra]

i really recommend the Nord Modular 1, though it's quite aging. It covers all your above mentioned needs with bravour and beyond. (except for on-board effects like delay and reverb --> G2). Assertive sound and great possibilities in sound design. I won't need another synth. goes for quite cheap at ebay too.

look for some reviews on the interweb

[Jaan]

second for virus ti. can't go wrong wit dat shizAT

[register]

Yeah, viruses are lush, I loved playing at one in a local store - fucking well expensice though, I guess a 2nd hand virus b would kick. Nord's are also great. A love the sounds a mate of mine gets out of them. I've heard a lot of 'electro' sounds come out of a Nord, asd well as some very soft and atmospheric patches, are they capable of doing the trancey thang?
Damn access for making such good + expensice synths!

[somarefill]

hi, i agree with you about the alesis micron/ion.

an amazing synth. dont let the price of it dissuade you. i have used the nord 3 & g2 & also the virus c. each does have its own flavor. but the ion or micron should serve you very well.

i would never spend the money on the virus ti. access is a joke with support. clavia's nord line is also suffering.

its funny how i have talked down the micron/ion for years, until i was able to grab one for 300 (ion).. i was just going to use it as a controller period. until i actually started using its synthesizer engine!

i sold the nord lead 3 and g2 (i miss the g2) but the ion/micron is a very well rounded synth. the only thing i do not like about it is the patch structure. only 127 user slots (more than enough for most) and the 3 other slots are for presets, that can be modified and then saved. which is fine.

if you are going to take the advice of someone one this forum, i would totally get the nord modular 1 or g2 over the virus ti.

i think you should get the micron and then a cheapo 49 or 61 key midi board.

make some tunes!

[Tarekith]

Minus the EQ you want, I'd recommend the DSI Mono Evolver Keyboard.

[snakes and ladders]

+ 1 on the evolver. I got the rack - I cant give a review as yet as I'm just getting to know it. I know the sounds it can produce _ WOW! The poly and the new Prophet sound incredible. But I was going to get the keyboard - knocb per function - but got the edesktop and am putting the reset toward a Moog Little Phatty - sounds utter amazing. Sorry - I went of track - Get an evolver:)

[Tarekith]

I have a desktop too, love it! Far more power than you'd imagine from such a small box!

[snakes and ladders]

I cant wait to use the inputs and route audio those filters. Tarekith what have you used the filters on? (sorry to hijack this thread)

[Homebelly]

The new waldorf,, can't remember it's name,, it was shown at the last namm,, should be out at the end of this year,,, very cool specs and knowing waldorf it should live up to them when released into the wild.