PlanetZ forums - scopeusers.com

I was thinking of getting the Zarg Ambient as it is described as "inspired by" the Waldorf Q - one of the nicest hardware synths for moving pad/ambient sounds - it even has a Waldorf oscillator (and filters?). At the moment it's on offer for 99 euro's so it's a bit of a bargain. Has anyone got this and how well does it compare with the original?

Also if I get Ambient I won't be able to afford the Solaris for some time - which is the other Zarg synth I have an interest in. It's also on offer but its 199. I could just about afford this instead but not both. Given that my interest is mainly in soundscapes and ambient sounds is Solaris a better choice?

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Kymeia on 2004-05-09 13:53 ]</font>

I never tried the Ambient, but I absolutely trust the statement about it's special focus.

I do have the Solaris though, and it's THE absolute omnipotent monster synth.

if you can afford just one Scope synth, then it MUST be the Solaris

It covers all and every aspect of synth architecture, features 2 Waldorfs as well as the famous CEM emulation and in it's latest release also vector synthesis à la Wavestation plus sample OSC.
Taking all that into account it will be even better at ambient sound textures because it's so much more versatile.

There are great pad presets and it's really easy to add your own.
The 199 Euro are a bargain for such a powerhorse, seriously - go for it, you won't regret

cheers, Tom

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: astroman on 2004-05-09 14:26 ]</font>

if you can afford just one Scope synth, then it MUST be the Solaris

It covers all and every aspect of synth architecture, features 2 Waldorfs as well as the famous CEM emulation and in it's latest release also vector synthesis à la Wavestation plus sample OSC.
Taking all that into account it will be even better at ambient sound textures because it's so much more versatile.

There are great pad presets and it's really easy to add your own.
The 199 Euro are a bargain for such a powerhorse, seriously - go for it, you won't regret

cheers, Tom

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: astroman on 2004-05-09 14:26 ]</font>

Thanks - that was just what I suspected - if I get Solaris it can do a lot of what Ambient can do but also a lot more.

Just I'll need to dig a bit deeper - oh well, in for a penny

btw - what is this "famous CEM emulation"?

afaik it refers to the Curtis filter and oscillator chips used in the hardware Prophet synths and of course some other brands of that time, too.
It adds a very special sound colour, rather thin (in a positive sense) and precise - and nowhere else to find

cheers, Tom

So basically it's sort of a cross between elements of virtually every classic synth going - Waldorf, Sequencial Circuits, Korg.

Wow - that does sound good.

I'm finding it hard to find a lot of info on John Bowen's site though which is a pity. Plenty of screenshots but little detail about any of the synths and some referred to in various places don't appear to be in the product catalogue or sales area even (for example the Red Dwarf ex).

well, I assume everything concentrated much on the Solaris recently - it could also be considered as a certain milestone in synth evolution by John.
With the latest extensions it's hard to imagine any more can be stuffed in a single device, but you probably read that even Flexor modules can find a home inside Solaris
Acutally it's better to demo the device instead of reading too much about it.
I'm certain that John will be glad to send you a copy, he's a very gentle guy and really concerns about his customers.
just email him

cheers, Tom

Just called in to big up the Zarg massive!!

Peace.