Product: Buchla 200e
Price Paid: USD 23000
Submitted
06/24/2008
at
07:15pm
by
J. P.
Email: Hyperguy61<at>yahoo dot com
Ease of Use
:
8
Even if you are fluent with analog modular synthesis , this instrument can still be a bit confusing. Buchla has their own way of doing and naming things , but with a little patience , you would be on your way. It's modular , so there are no presets , but it is hard to imagine a better interface for sound design. The manual is helpful , but again , this instrument is for an experienced musician and the manual follows suit.
Features
:
10
The most obvious feature is that it will remember almost every knob , and switch setting as a preset , which , as far as i know , is the only modular that will do this. Of course , you have to note where your patch cables are because it wont remember that. Its a really interesting feature though , as with a pulse , you can make it change presets by itself. And you can choose with modules respond to preset changes with a switch. It's really amazing when you start to wrap your head around the possibilities. With the onboard MIDI interface you can convert incoming MIDI into any voltage you want , so it really works with the computer well. I have never once said to myself , "i wish i could....." because you can do anything you can imagine ...
Expressiveness/Sounds
:
10
The overall sound quality is excellent. It is not really made to do standard synth sounds. Others are better for that. It is excellent for raw sound design. I've used them all , and nothing sounds even remotely similar to the Buchla. In no time , you will finding sounds you never knew existed.
Reliability
:
9
I've had it for almost a year , and i've only had one issue which was repaired at once. If you call there , there is a good chance that Don Buchla himself will pick up the phone. He is a bit eccentric , but then again , normal people don't build things like this.
Customer Support
:
9
as above , they always pick up the phone , or call you back.
Overall Rating
:
10
I would definitely buy it again. There is nothing else really like it at all. I would say it is worth the money , absolutely. I've been using modular synths since they were new in the early 70's.
I didnt want to spend the money at first , and i bought a Modcan , which was great , but after playing my friends 200e , i sold the Modcan , and bought the Buchla. Never looked back. The most inspirational musical instrument i have ever owned. By far.
