Do I really need to get a new sound module?

[JohnSmooth]

I was told a long time ago to keep older equiptment(sound modules) because they add character to production style. I'm creating Hip Hop and Neo- soul tracks. The NeoSoul stuff isn't too bad but Hip Hop seems to be really gear driven. Sometimes I find myself doubting my skills because I don't have any of the latest gear.
These are the pieces that I'm using: Alesis QSR, Korg TR Rack, Emu Vintage Keys, Roland XP10, Akai MPC2000XL and Digital Performer 4.
Do I really need to get a newer synth? and if so which one? I'd be willing to spend between 600- 800 for something that will last for a while. I really value the opinions here, Thanks in advance!

John

[ssscientist]

In my opinion you've got the synth bases covered.

Learning more about programming would be the smart way to invest your time and money, because between those four synths you own there is hardly a sound you can imagine that couldn't be squeezed out of one of them. And between your two sequencers (MPC and DP) you've got all the horsepower and more...

Try this web site and this listing of books available on the subject of synthesizer programming.

[Mo-Kay]

all I can say is I think you have a really nice collection right there...

and as for hip hop production...I wouldn't be to worried man.

If one style is NOT gear-driven, it's hip-hop....take whatever works for you, and just do it.
You don't need a lot of gear per se...in the first place, ESPECIALLY with hip hop, it's about skills.

[JohnSmooth]

Hey Guys thanks. I really didn't want to buy anything else right now until I sold some tracks. I don't feel like I'm crazy anymore trying to keep up with the joneses with my setup. And I do agree with the point about programming. I need to stop being lazy. I know I'm not getting the most out of these modules. All I need now is a little inspiration. Thanks again! And I'm open for any other suggestions and opinions you may have.

JS

[superdee]

js u gaa some good gear there,xpeciallyu that qsr,i have the qs6 i use it as a sound module,ther sounds of alesis boards are very very organic sounding i like it very much,i also have a yamaha tg 500 module,(if u seee one of thesae jump on it,.trust me nothing souds like this beast,proteous 2000,jv 1080, kawai k1r,.man im always lookin for the old stuff. but later im lookin at the motif es,.yamaha sound is very organic too.also what may inspire utoo is , old drum machines.try one of those zoom units rt123, or 234,.u,ll see what it does for your creativity,.peace

[JohnSmooth]

Originally Posted by superdee

js u gaa some good gear there,xpeciallyu that qsr,i have the qs6 i use it as a sound module,ther sounds of alesis boards are very very organic sounding i like it very much,i also have a yamaha tg 500 module,(if u seee one of thesae jump on it,.trust me nothing souds like this beast,proteous 2000,jv 1080, kawai k1r,.man im always lookin for the old stuff. but later im lookin at the motif es,.yamaha sound is very organic too.also what may inspire utoo is , old drum machines.try one of those zoom units rt123, or 234,.u,ll see what it does for your creativity,.peace

I was looking at that Proteus 2000 myself. I heard a few producers speak highly of it.

[Kid Downunder]

that Vintage Keys module should also be tops very nice array of analouge esque sounds....those EMU filters should be the bomb.. I believe there is a PC programing util for the Proteus range of synths...which helps with programing!!! It should do some wild basses...I dont' think you need a P2k you really have to program those to buggery to get good sounds...you prolly have most stock standard sounds with what you hav!!!

[RhythmRmixd]

I have a Proteus 2000 and its one of my prime sources for my MIDI production. I'm in the same boat as yourself, trying to build up my hardware module collection as well. I've seen some decent stuff on ebay, does anybody know other good websites to find hardware modules (new or used) for decent prices?

[JohnSmooth]

RhythmRmixd, I 've become sort of addicted to scanning through Craigslist.org for equiptment. I've purchased about 80% of my recording studio from there. Everything that I have purchased from there has been used but in mint condition. I haven't had one bad experience yet. The cool thing I like about the site is that you connect with the sellers directly, meet up and check out the gear. No surprises at all like sending the money and getting a box full of bricks! You can also trade stuff with people on there too. Give it a look, it might be what you're looking for.

John

[RhythmRmixd]

Originally Posted by JohnSmooth

RhythmRmixd, I 've become sort of addicted to scanning through Craigslist.org for equiptment. I've purchased about 80% of my recording studio from there. Everything that I have purchased from there has been used but in mint condition. I haven't had one bad experience yet. The cool thing I like about the site is that you connect with the sellers directly, meet up and check out the gear. No surprises at all like sending the money and getting a box full of bricks! You can also trade stuff with people on there too. Give it a look, it might be what you're looking for.

John

Thanks John, I'll check it out. I just purchased a couple more expansion roms to add to my Proteus 2000 off ebay. Unfortunatly E-MU doesn't even carry anything associated with their hardware line of modules anymore, including the roms, but if your lucky you can find a gem for the right price. I see pretty good deals on ebay quite often.