StarskyCarr Compares Acustica Expanse 5 and Prophet 5: A Tale of Two Synths

In this epic comparison video, StarskyCarr kicks off with the iconic Prophet 5, a vintage synth that musicians only dream of getting their hands on. Right from the gate, he establishes that the Prophet 5 in his hands is a reissue, not an original from the 80s—though it’s still got that vintage charm that can make any track sound like you’ve stepped back into the golden age of synths. But here’s the twist: the star isn’t just hardware; it’s also the Acustica Audio Expanse 5 plugin, a software emulation based on the same legendary instrument. StarskyCarr meticulously breaks down each synth function, showcasing how well the Expanse 5 can hold its own against the time-tested Prophet 5. If you thought plugins couldn’t hang with hardware, Starsky’s rundown might just change your mind. From the get-go, it seems like both contenders are set for a soulful sound-off.

StarskyCarr gets into the nitty-gritty with oscillator comparatives. He discusses the tuning quirks of the Prophet 5, which, although charming, can be unpredictable. As anyone into vintage gear knows, these quirks are part of the mystique, but they can also drive you a little nuts. Not to be outdone, the Expanse 5 offers a much more stable performance—perhaps at the expense of some analog character. He notes the flutier, more hollow sound of the Expanse 5’s square waves compared to the Prophet 5, emphasizing how gear—a bit like life—is about trade-offs. Just like when you’re picking between a slice of street pizza or a gourmet meal, it’s really about what you’re in the mood for. The Expanse offers a different flavor but still serves up some serious groove.

Next up in StarskyCarr’s synth saga is the filter comparison. He doesn’t shy away from admitting the Prophet 5’s filter feels a smidge smoother and more resonant than its digital companion. With both synths offering rich tonal possibilities, Starsky notes minor differences but lauds both for their near-identical performance under the microscope. For many synth lovers, a filter is what separates the players from the pretenders. According to Starsky, the Prophet’s filter may have the edge, but Expanse isn’t far behind, packing a punch with its own unique vibe. It’s like comparing two grill masters: one might have a slight edge on smoky flavor, but both can make some killer ribs.

Starsky dips into the dynamic realm of modulation, noting how the Expanse 5 appends its own flair with a broader modulation range compared to the Prophet 5. This added flexibility can be a game-changer for synth enthusiasts looking to push boundaries. The Expanse 5 also boasts features the Prophet 5 misses, like an arpeggiator and an effects suite including a super stereo effect and saturator. These extras inject a modern twist into a classic formula, much like adding a splash of hot sauce to your grandmother’s recipe—just enough to spice things up without losing the original flavor. Starsky’s tone is clear: sometimes, innovation lies in the little extras.