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NORAND MONO review // Why it's a breakthrough synth + Outro track download

Added 2021-04-11 15:04:58 +0000 UTC

Hi!

At first glance, Norand Mono looks like yet another TB-303 inspired mono synth, but a deeper look under the hood reveals a few interface ideas that are a clever use of space, and yes dare I say a breakthrough as far as hardware synths are concerned (software synths have been doing this for a while)

In particular, LEDs on the knobs reveal both knob values and modulation activity; and it has a user interface that makes using 20 LFOs and 16 envelopes easy and straightforward instead of headache-inducing.

As I mention in the video, if I made synths, I'd be taking notes because there's a lot to learn from this one!

The outro jam is attached to this post for those interested.

All my best,

Ziv (Now claiming that using 20 modulators is easy on youtube as "Loopop"...)

NORAND MONO review // Why it's a breakthrough synth + Outro track download

Comments

Great!!!

2021-05-26 17:43:30 +0000 UTC

Hey. They’ve fixed all found issues. One with Octatrack and another with Keystep. Luckily both were in software and not hardware. Overall experience as a customer and owner was great!

2021-05-25 21:07:53 +0000 UTC

I'm still waiting for response from Norand, but in the meantime will check Octatrack CCs. thanks for confirming direction. 👍

2021-05-12 11:23:14 +0000 UTC

Hi Damir - first - thanks for your ongoing support! I'm happy to answer questions I know the answer to but something like this indeed would require re-building the setup and not a service I can offer as part of my Patreon (or at all). However, I think you're on track regarding CC's doing something - why not just email the company though? If they're not responsive it's also something I'd love to know, though my interactions with them have been really good.

2021-05-12 11:19:21 +0000 UTC

Thanks for review on Mono, got one right after, and enjoying it since. It's overall a decent synth and interesting, you were absolutely right about it, approach to interface. Small addition if someone is ever to read this comment - be ready that it's a new synth from young company, so don't expect premium feel from interface or build quality, but if you're ready for experiment and for LFOs for every param you can imagine - it's a perfect option. Though I have one question regarding this synth's interaction with other gear, and I figured out you @loopop are the only person in the world who might have an idea on where to look at. I got Mono sequenced by A4, by Cycles, by Rytm and Ableton, and it works just fine, but when I try to use Octatrack MIDI, device behaves strangely. Chromatic mode for some reason doesn't work, and when note is pressed, Mono starts to play single note forever (1), other notes are rarely trigger something on device, but I can't track any dependency on why and how often it happens; it also messes with knobs and volume knob at lowest position doesn't turn the sound off (2). Pulling MIDI cable off and resetting device helps but that shouldn't be a solution, device is still not sequence-able by Octa. I have an idea that it might be somehow related to CC messages (Mono is fully CC responsive), but maybe something with MIDI spec. I am addressing this question to you because you're an expert in MIDI/CC gear interaction and you might have a better idea than guys from Norand (whom I also asked, waiting for reply). Again, I'm not expecting answer, but think that you might create same scenario and maybe, if you have time, test it on your configuration. I'll appreciate any response, even if it's RTFM, if you point me somewhere.

2021-05-12 11:06:47 +0000 UTC

Understood. Sorry if I put you on the spot. We are spoiled for choice with synths these days and the anxiety of committing. Norand's modulation design impressed you and it's only natural to put forth that kind of comparison with what's out there to help narrow down choices. Ultimately, I know I'm going to churn through some gear as part of self discovery. Thanks for weighing in - definitely helps me in my own due diligence.

2021-04-15 00:33:27 +0000 UTC

I really believe no one should make the decision for you, and every time I tried, people went up going with something different, probably rightfully so, because my needs aren’t like yours... but if you forced me! I think a TB-03/xox are just different than the others, more limited things, not in the same category (not bad BTW, I just placed an order on a RE303 from a builder...). Typhon is a ton of fun because of the built in effects, otherwise IMHO Norand and Medusa are better choices, but more expensive.... Between Norand and Medusa - there's no wrong answer... very different things. Again, all of the above just me, likely not applicable to anyone else.

2021-04-14 23:08:06 +0000 UTC

Ziv, if you didn't have a mono synth and you were presented with a fresh opportunity to pick one over the existing monos (e.g: Bass Station 2, Avalon Xoxbox, TB-03, and Typhon ) and even some modern hybrids (e.g. Polyend Medusa ) in a similar price range, does the ease of Norand's modulation still make it the top choice? I say this after pulling the trigger on Polyend's Medusa which is now selling new for $700 on Thomann.de after my value-proposition spidey senses started tingling.

2021-04-14 18:46:55 +0000 UTC

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