Message 9/10
Date: 28-Dec-02 @ 06:22 PM -
RE: darkstar sysex send and receive
My thoughts,
All things considered, this is one of the better synths out there. Where else can you get a new 5 poly/8 voice synth for $199 (US)? You can't. Plus, it has a joystick. The only other thing quite that unique in a synth is the D-Beam.
It is not without its shortcomings, sure. But you can't compare it to a Nova. That's like saying I'll race my stock Neon against your stock Corvette. Just not fair. The Darkstar is noisy, there isn't an easy way to save your patches, the interface is...unique. But you have to admit that for 200 bucks, there isn't anything out there that competes.
Personally, I think the interface is a strength. It takes some getting used to, thats for sure, and it's easy to make mistakes with it, but once you get comfortable with it, you can navigate without TOO much trouble. Put it this way, the Darkstar is easier to program than my Kurweil k2000. If you were to add a dedicated knob box, it would get even easier.
Keep in mind that there's alot in that little box. The joystick is truly cool, too. :-)
All things considered, I think this is a unique instrument. I can be VERY nasty.