Post
by Unfiltered » Mon Oct 25, 2010 7:09 pm
If you're looking for opinions, and obviously this is just that: Find a good deal on a model D, Oberheim 2/4 voice, ARP Odyssey, or even the new Moog-modeled modulars. I have a Voyager and a D, and originally I got both to see which is better, and neither is, because they're almost completely different beasts. There are 2 main factors that I consider when determining what to use: sound quality and versatility. Obviously the Voyager is extremely versatile, but less obviously, the D has a raw electronic sound that can only come from discrete oscillators and filter. I built an oscillator for a class and when I heard it, I noticed how raw and powerful it sounded, just from basic components, and I also noticed how similar to the model D it sounded, as far as just pureness and rawness was concerned.
This is something I don't hear from the Voyager, which is very clean sounding, and more refined and stable. As far as modern analog all in one synths go, though, i have never heard one better than the Voyager. The Doepfer stuff has a sort of rough rawness as well, but it has more of an edge that is not exactly moog-like. But to me, the sound is most important, and a simple patch that sounds good is enough for me. That said, If you like crazy experimentation, I would go for a modular. If you want a clean, reliable, stable live performance keyboard, go with the Voyager. If you want the sound of electricity in its purest form, go for a D or an Odyssey (whiteface or early blackface) or an Oberheim 2 voice which is currenlty being revised and put on sale soon by Tom Oberheim.
The Voyager is also the coolest looking keyboard I have ever seen, with the possible exception of the mellotron. Get a Mellotron with Voyager on Top!