Devin’s Synth Picks: Wallet-Friendly or Hype Overload?

Devin starts his breakdown with the ever-controversial Behringer Model D. Despite its widespread fame, Devin argues it’s an underrated piece in today’s cluttered synth world. As synth nerds debated every nuance about the Model D, it somehow ventured beyond people’s radar, making it a sleeper hit worth your time. Devin’s take is that the Model D nails the essence of its Moog predecessor with its rich overdriven sounds that cut through any mix like a hot knife through butter. Even with its little quirks and the purists’ quibbles, Devin insists the Model D stands out for its price. His nostalgia is palpable as he mentions this is the synth he regrets letting go – which says something considering his vast synth collection.

Next up is the Korg MS-20 Mini, another underrated underdog in Devin’s eyes. Known for its snarling filters and distinctive sound, it’s one of those synths that Devin feels still has uncharted territories of sound to explore. He cites its dual low pass and high pass filter configuration as a key feature, alongside its historical use by artists like John Hopkins for its gritty, bass-heavy creations. Devin’s only beef? The mini keys. But when you’re flooded by its powerful auditory punch, those tiny keys seem like a small price to pay. With fluctuating prices, Devin advises potential buyers to keep their eyes peeled for those sweet local deals.

Devin doesn’t shy away from calling out synths he finds overrated. Enter the Arturia Micro Freak – a synth that some hold dear, yet Devin isn’t sold on its hype. While he applauds its vocoder for being a steal at its price, the paraphonic structure and membrane keyboard leave him wanting more. He argues that despite its diverse array of digital algorithms, it lacks the organic vibe critical for completing tracks. Devin warns that while it’s fun for experimentation, it may not teach the best synth habits for serious music creation. The Micro Freak, in Devin’s book, is all flash but not much substance when it comes to laying down serious tracks.

Devin closes out with high praise for the Behringer 2600, the kind of synth he believes is underrated and overflowing with creative potential. He celebrates its versatility and educational value, pointing out its similarities to the legendary ARP 2600. Devin believes this piece is an open sandbox for anyone keen to experiment, with a price point that’s wallet-friendly compared to its inspirations. He highlights its thoughtful design, mentioning features like the additional LFO and analog sound palette that make it a no-brainer for serious synth lovers. It’s clear that for Devin, the Behringer 2600 is a synth built for discovery and endless musical journeys.