OP-1 Field is Overpriced AND Overhyped
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 9 ก.ค. 2023
- It’s time to talk about the OP-1 Field, I didn’t want it to go this way, but here we are.
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An interesting point is that we haven’t seen any op-1 clones with significantly lower prices and more features.
For real though
Get on it Behringer. For once you could steal from a company that actually deserves it instead of Moog, MAKE NOISE, or Mutable Instruments.
@@middaymeds why do they deserve it? And Behringer has had over a decade to come up with a knock-off.
Killing innovation is hardly the way forward for us consumers, either.
The Sonicware ELZ_1 looks promising!
Well the demand has been there for ages. Maybe, just maybe ... it's pretty optimal and it's not actually feasible to do what it is that you are saying.
The Technics 1200 was the go-to deck for an insane length of time simply because no one could come up with a better design.
Thank you so much for this. I have totally been buying into the hype. Ive been an avid machine user ever since the first one came out so many years ago, but lately I’ve been looking for something new. I’ve been borrowing the original OP-1 the last couple months and have run into the same exact issues that you are explaining here. I convinced myself though that if I got the field all of these issues would dissipate. I unfortunately just sold my Maschine plus and my Maschine Jam to kick off my savings for it. This has had given me something to think about.
Some interesting points you bring up. I’ve been carrying an iPad Pro in my backpack for years, and now have been carrying my op1 field since I bought it. Can’t say why, knowing that the iPad is a very capable music creation device, but it never sparked my curiosity and creativity. There’s something about the op1 charm that is more playful. I’ve been able to create some cool tracks, and it seems that the more I play with it, the tighter the performance becomes. In this way; the “limitations” have helped to develop better performance skills. So much gear out there seems to create lazy habits In musicians. Over relying on sequencers, quantization, etc… this instrument demands that the user play the game it’s way. I’ll admit, it took me a minute to stop trying to make the op behave like more traditional gear…. Once I got past that, there was a breakthrough, “aha” moment that came to a release of expectation and transitioned to a more exploratory mode. The OP1 goes everywhere with me, almost always has enough battery to reliably be available for a jam, and consistently surprises me with its quirks and isms. Granted, the price is a thing, but it’s brought me more musical joy and countless hours of exploration than any other piece of gear ever. For these reasons I must humbly defend the gadget as a real deal, oasis of sound exploration and creativity. It’s unapologetic nature is a challenge, but that’s part of what makes it so intriguing. It’s almost like a game to get it just right before committing it to “tape”. Anyhow, just my two cents on the subject. Thanks for the video and best wishes to you in your endeavors!
I really appreciate your thoughtful insight on this! Thanks for sharing your experience, I’m really glad the OP1F has clicked for you!
@@DylanParisMusic here’s hoping we all stay connected with the muse, in whatever form it may come. Cheers!
What sort of cognitive dissonance does someone need to have to conclude this ridicolous scam product is positive in any way or form?
If the "design" sparked your creativity, just go and 3d print ridicolous cases for your other synths. There. Just saved you a bunch of money.
@@barnabyfontana7528 , it's a love it or hate it with the OP-1f. I'm happy to know that you've found gear that you connect with, but I really enjoy the field stuff. My 43 year old cruncy back appreciates the portability, and it is sublime to always have a dedicated music makin lab on hand, ready to go, and check out into for a while at the jump of a whim. Double order of that kind of cognitive dissonance for this guy, right here, please!
@@barnabyfontana7528 This comment is fucking insane. The fact that it comes down to "i saved you a bunch of money" is so crazy. Get good.
I have similar challenges using my op1 field as a standalone device to make music because I am so much in the synth sequencer based workflow which is why I love the OP-Z so much (and things like Korg gadget 2 and Ableton note) that being said I am bringing my 1 on vacation and plan to spend time leaning into it and seeing what I can discover. I didn’t pay for mine as you know so can’t comment on whether the price is worth it for me but I really think this video was great and important and honest. Good stuff 👌🏾
Thanks friend! Always appreciate your insight and support!
I been wondering how is the build quality of the op-z? Have you had any issues
There are quite a few devices in the same category other than the ones you mentioned. Roland MC-101, Dirtywave M8, Synthstrom Deluge are all very cool devices, with built-in synth engines, capable sequencers and all of them have undo :)
As someone who has owned (and sold) nearly every groovebox on the market, I would caution against the trap that is shopping based on specifications. I hear the Dirtywave M8 mentioned a lot and absolutely agree on paper it smokes everything else out there, but I just couldn't gel with the workflow as much as I tried.
It felt too much like I was "programming" music instead of "playing" music, and as someone who comes from a background playing instruments, it got uninspiring for me really quick. So yeah - try these things out, but there is no one size fit all option.
It’s neat to see a video made with an SM58 mic, the long proven industry workhorse lower priced tank of a mic, when almost all other channels seem to be oblivious to it.
Please don’t hate me but it’s a beta 58a so it’s mildly fancier but still in the family
I've used iPads, Logic, Fruity Loops, Reason, Garage Band, Ableton not including groove boxes and other hardware sequencers and yes there are hundreds of ways to make music but all of these are just tools, if you get inspired picking up a $50 guitar thats great. After I bought an OP-1 OG I was making tons of tunes and loops that I just never did within programs. I really love it and think its a great tool, I do not however think the few upgrades in the Field is worth the 2k pricetag which is why I bought one used for 1,500 no tax, and plan on selling my old OP-1. It's a really unique device and actually inspires me to start and upload projects and that's closer to the core of music making for me. I really like the tape real, and i like that once somethings in there, its done and I can stop thinking about it. I used to have 100s of FL studio projects where I would fiddle with the midi notes, volume, panning, & effects for hours and never export. Also there is kinda an Undo button if you Lift a track before you plan on overdubbing, and if you mess up you just place that previous lift in its place. Anyway, totally with you, i wish it was $800 as well but Id have to say there is something magic about it and for now im happy to have it in the toolbelt.
Super fair perspective and glad it’s working for you! I do tend to disagree with the lift and drop as an undo replacement primarily for how much it slows down and by proxy discourages experimentation. But that said, just cause it didn’t work for me doesn’t mean it doesn’t work for all!
Thanks for the headsup! I was tempted to get the Field, but will wait for updates and price drop.
As a long time owner who got rid of mine last year, I think the OP-1 is great for 2 kinds of people : complete beginners (with massive disposable income), or pros who pay their rent with their music.
To me, beginners get a taste of so much in music making (synthesis, sampling, recording, effects, committing to audio, etc...). This can help "find one's own voice" and figure out which part of electronic music they want to five deeper into (dedicated FM synth, more capable sampler, better understanding of the tools in a DAW...).
Pros get a tool that kills writer's block immediately (in my experience) and keeps the process going. Which is critical in a studio.
If you fit neither categories, I think the OP-1 can be a fun and inspiring toy to have around. Not in a derogatory way (I don't know why toys would be bad, especially to spark creativity). But if you already know what kind of gear and workflow you like, and there is any sort of stake around your output with the instrument, chances are the OP-1 could be too frustrating to feel justified.
I agree with this. I'm a somewhat beginner, and getting an OP1 has honestly taught me so much.
OP-1 stands for OverPriced 1 🤷🏻♂️
Facts
zzz so old.
@@ukbloke28 Old? Teenaged at best.
@@ukbloke28I’d say that joke isn’t even in the teens yet. Next year it will be a teenaged joke.
Just looked it up....
Fuck that... im just gonna wipe my old macbook, install reaper and keep on truckin 😅
I really hope other companies start looking into this device category. Got an OP1f a few months ago and I use it a lot, but the only reason Is because there is nothing else like it in terms of portability with a built in keyboard.
Agreed, would love to see what the other players could do
Glad you made this video. I play experimental noise music (puce Mary, prurient, pharmakon, etc.) and was considering this device for live use. I wanted the challenge of the four tracks, tape emulation, limited everything, etc. I’d still need a mic. May be include their mixer…. Sighhhh…. Now, I’m looking at the make noise black and gold again.
I have an OP-1 OG and I love it so much, but I do agree, the tape track has always made me not be able to use it to my full potential. A simple undo button, would completely change my entire workflow. I won't upgrade to the field, and I hope that the next iteration of the OP1 has undo
I hate the tape thing too, it's not for me, but I do think it makes you make and think about your music differently. I think it essentially one of the big appealing factors of the OP-1 workflow is its limited workflow and the contraints it imposes on you. I just don't understand why anybody would pay that large of a premium to be constrained. Also the portability and capability of it looks like a joke next to something like the DirtyWave M8, but the workflow is, of course, insanely different.
I'm not arguing against you but people pay way more for acoustic instruments - my tenor guitar cost 3700 eur. A guitar that's missing two strings?! Yep.
Argue all we like but the real issue here is TE's aesthetic over convenience vibe maybe. Not so much limitation.
"I just don't understand why anybody would pay that large of a premium to be constrained" shows such a ridiculous level of braindead drooling person who can't tie their own shoelaces that it's insane.
so i have an op1 and im trying to get into making music but i hate the interface and the layout on the op1 idk why its so hard/annoying to use, can you suggest a better device?
Did you do any, idk, research before dropping a stack on an OP1? It's a niche product. All depends on what you're going for.
If you're just starting off getting into making music WHY would you immediately jump in by getting one of the most expensive boutique products on the market? While the OP-1 has its points, no matter what you can do infinitely more with a basic MIDI keyboard, a computer and a decent DAW and you almost certainly already have a computer for other reasons so your investment to getting started with electronic music could easily be as low as $200 or lower, about 10x less than what you wasted on the OP-1.
So what small keyboard synths would you recommend with quality sound at lower price?
There is it. He said "there is nothing like it." Reading some comments people think this should be a workstation like the Roland Fantom or Yamaha Montage.
I think the closest thing to this in terms of function and portability would be the Synthstrom Deluge, mainly because of its built in arranger. Given that you can use the arranger without even using the song view, you can pretty much emulate the OP1 workflow on that box (although why you would want to, I don't know). I wanted an OP1 for years and just when I saved up enough to buy one I discovered the Deluge. Pretty glad I did to be honest.
The Deluge is one of the GOATs. I feel like there's a spectrum of "programmy-ness" to these boxes, with the Dirtywave M8 at one end, the OP-1 on the other, and the Deluge right in the middle.
Deluge is another truly unique device. By the way, @rskt_music - your tutorials on the device are fantastic.👍
The interface of the deluge has always looked like it would be really tough for my weird eyes to decipher but it seems like a really cool machine!
@@DylanParisMusic i have old eyes too - the fine print on the keypad is rough. but i was surprised i connected with the deluge as much as i did. it's a specific workflow and UI. it's probably the most "frictionless" device i've used. i've tried and moved on from a bunch of devices but this one has stuck.
@@asterox101 thanks man! Glad you found them useful :)
Man. I feel all the points you’re making every time I mess with the OP-1 Field. I’ve gotten pretty quick with the interface, which I think is a testament to TE’s design strengths. But trying to do anything I’d consider *finished* is a monumental task. I’ve seen people use it in conjunction with a laptop to do some incredible things while sending audio back and forth, but holy hell - that’s a $5000 rig at that point so of course!
The thing that might make it worth it to me would be if getting stuff in and out of it was super easy. If I could use the Bluetooth or usb to rapidly take things off the tape and throw them over to something else that might make it a more useable sketch pad. Maybe it’s better on the pc side, but on the mac you have to use a special app just to get at everything on the drive. And that app is not on iOS to my knowledge, so not easy to do portabilitywise. I’m strongly considering selling mine and waiting for the new iPads in the fall now that I have LOGIC. I use my Deluge and iPad so much more than this.
Op-1 has USB audio. Just set it as an input
Thank you, this is so refreshing. I still want one but know when I get one it may just sit there on my desk looking groovy.
Valid! It looks really cool honestly
thanks for this video. crazy that it went up 1k in pricing. It would be nice to have it though if it wasn’t so damn expensive
A few days ago I started to look for a portable synth. I discovered the OP-1, which I didn't know before (I promise). I couldn't find any other similar device (portable synth with battery and "piano-like" keyboard), so I thought "it seems that nobody is interested in this kind of device, it's only me". But then I found that this is still one of the best selling synths! I can't understand why there's no competition. :-O
The workflow is entirely different but the Dirtywave M8 is an unbelievably capable device at less than half the price of the OP1F.
I need to try the M8!
good luck getting one
current pre-orders aint going out until sometime in oct. 😅
Who wants to work In hex though. and where's the keyboard?
@@ukbloke28it's not like you're doing hex arithmetic lol... And the UI makes it very convenient to use. And the form factor is basically a Gameboy, I don't WANT a keyboard. It's small and compact and efficient
Does the recent 1.5.0 firmware "merge drop" feature change your opinion of it? Not quite having 8 tracks, but it is a quite nice quality of life improvement.
I don’t know about this but anything they can do to make the workflow better for existing users is a pro in my book!
i’m looking for something that’s as portable as this that i could just use to kickstart ideas to later finish in Ableton. I want something that’ll help remove the barrier and burden of getting everything setup to stare in front of a computer, and make creating ideas fun for me. do you have any recommendations for that?
As small as this will be hard, that’s basically its number one differentiating feature. I’d say an iPad mini is close but that gets you in computer territory. I haven’t tried one yet but the Yamaha Seqtraq or a Tracker Mini could be options, but they’re different workflows for sure
Hi, heard that is possible to use 8 mono tracks in OP-1 Field? Is that right?
I think so, it requires panning left and right and some other workaround stuff that is par for the course for this thing.
I’ve owned the OG OP-1, and still own the OP-Z. Doubt I’ll ever buy the field, but what seemed tempting about it was using the field and the Z together as a super portable mini studio. I’ve read you can control field synths and samples from the Z and bounce the sequenced tracks to the Z tape recorder. I dont know if you’ve ever considered trying that but it might be a different way of working with it.
I don’t think you can sequence and record multiple tape tracks at once on the Field but I could be wrong.
i looked up that logic pro app you mentioned it looks like its subscription based. is there a free version that im not aware of? because your argument that the 2000 for op1 is too expensive doesnt make sense since any sort of subcription will cost you much more in the long run
It’s 50 dollars a year and GarageBand is a free light version, it would take 40 years of logic sub to match op 1 field pricing
Yeah, I want(ed) the OP1 field just like you I guess. It has an appeal that no other device seems to have.
But my ratio tells me I’d better have fun with my (not portable) setup.
And TBH, the home studio is where I make music. Not the couch, not a forest, not a beach.
I know I could, but the limited free time I have, I don’t want to spend on moving, setting up, and returning.
If money was no issue, yes, for those few moments of spare time ‘outside’ it would be nice. But not worth it for me right now.
So even without the limitations you mentioned (which are well put) I think I should not want something portable too badly 😂
🙌🙏 Exact sentiments, like in our earlier convo. The other big companies need to get going on a carbon copy of this, but with everything we need out of it that the op lacks. Great video bro 🤙
Had a feeling you’d dig this one haha
@@DylanParisMusichaha dude, I packed it up tonight and am literally going tomorrow to gc to return it. Every point you had is exactly what I thought about it.
When I first unboxed it, it was like holding the iPhone for the first time. 100% agreed with it being the most sleek, well build piece of gear I’ve ever held. Such a bummer. It’s such a conundrum that you almost automatically feel like it’s nowhere near the price, but yet, it’s so well built and unique. So weird, never felt so contradicted over a piece of gear like this.
1000 percent dude! They just need competition like you said. I hope someday I’m at a point where I can help make things like this in my life cause there’s so many missed opportunities
@@DylanParisMusic That’s what I’m saying man. It would be so awesome if you and other seasoned gear channels that know what’s needed came together and got something made. Either with an established company, or a start up. It’s so funny you mentioned the possibility of a patent, like why hasn’t anyone copied this!? There’s even a running joke like, “Hey Behringer, clone this shit already.”
@@heffe4257 well, apparently it’s not that easy to clone it after all, and that some serious engineering has gone into it. Maybe the price isn’t that easy to get down to make it a feasible product to fit in a pricing category that it isn’t in already, i.e. expensive.
Also, I don’t understand why you had to buy it to return it the next day when hardly anything has changed the last 13 years looking at the features. 🤔
I know a few people who very excitedly posted about getting one…and then posted little to no music made with it. I was even curious for a while. But ultimately iPad Pro is the way to go. You can replicate the “play” or “toy” approach to music making with it very easily. But, crucially, you can go beyond that too.
I wonder what your thoughts are on the KO-II? With the price and how hard they're pushing for it to be accessible it kind of seems like they're moving in the direction you wanted them to.
Also, I really want an OP-1 mostly to use it as a MIDI controller lmao. It's a really small option with 25 velocity sensitive keys, which is basically all the functionality I need. But it's not justifiable for that at all
I think it’s a really good move on their part! It’s a bit too limited for my use case but it seems like a winner! I heard there’s some quality control issues but hopefully they can work those out
Would love to hear your review of the Polyend Tracker Mini when it's available. On paper, it's very compelling except for the lack of live note input. But on the other hand, it has 8 buttons underneath the screen that could be used as a 1-octave keyboard in a pinch.
If I can get my hands on one I absolutely will make videos with it
@@DylanParisMusic I'm thinking it might be the perfect sampler+granular companion for my Syntakt and offer a separate, on-the-go workflow. But then there's another part of me that realizes that a Syntakt + PTM could be replaced by a Push 3 for pretty much the same total price.
If I had to pick one of those I’d pick the push 3 but I will say it’s so much larger it might be a limiter if portability is important for you
@@DylanParisMusic To me, it's more about portability around the house than train ride portability. That said, I really love my Syntakt so I might end up keeping it as a separate device just for the unique ideas it leads to. But yeah, between Syntakt+PTM and the Push 3, I agree with you that Push 3 is more compelling.
@sinewaymusic pls check out the Dirtywave M8. Much more grassroots effort from a dude who’s been in the tracker scene for decades and is an active participant in the community. A big negative you’ll always see with Polyend is lack of support, and I personally randomly posted a comment about a tiny bug and the dude who masterminded it all DM’d me an hour later and gave me two follow up firmwares to test and fix the issue. The M8 is already more capable than the Tracker Mini on paper, and the follow up from the man in charge as well as the active community puts the M8 worlds above Polyend tbh.
Is there a possibility that some of these issues will be fixed in firmware updates?
Anything is possible but I always caution against buying a device based on what it might do in the future and only buying based on what it can do today
I really appreciate an honest review like this
I wish I could justify buying the op1 but I don't think I can
thanks for watching! I was definitely let down by this device for sure. The price and limitations just don't feel right at this point.
You forgot about the M8 Tracker, which if you can get behind the tracker workflow, you get a lot functinality.
If this comment section has told me anything, it is that I need to try the M8
Same here, I bought it, I love the form factor, some synths and sequencer inside BUT the 4 tracks tape machine wasn't for me and the price was making me guilty... Then After a few weeks sampling and resampling (IMO is one of the best features) I returned. They should add a OP-Z type sequencer machine inside, that will make the best machine.
This device has completely changed my life in the explosion of musical creativity it has given me. The ability to TRACK good sounding drums, synths, vocals including easy stereo stacking, PLUS recording via line input, PLUS a USB-C input/output to my iPhone, is fucking amazing. There’s practically no menu diving, it fits in my jacket pocket, has a 10-hour battery life, and looks amazing. This is fucking crazy amazing, and intuitive, and literally the best music device I’ve ever had - not because of specs, but because what it lets me do easily from anywhere.
If you hate it… I’m not concerned w/defending it - but to those out there looking for feedback from people who use it - it’s truly, truly amazing.
I’m glad you’re enjoying it! Thanks for sharing your experience 🙏
I have the og op 1 and love it. There are definitely annoying things about it, but it is such a good tool for creating. The sampler is one of the best tools. Always wondered if the field was way better. Thanks for the great review!
As an MPC user for the last 25 years and recently purchased and OP-1 OG... I think your way off! The learning curve is steep. Not difficult, just steep. Simply because the workflow is super UNIQUE! After a week of steady use, TH-cam videos and the manual, this unit becomes a gem. It's amazing! I'm blown away by the technology in this little thing. What seems to be limited is actually quite advanced.
That’s rad it’s working for you! How much did you pay for the op 1?
@@DylanParisMusic I got it for $950 CAD. I absolutely love it. I threw myself into it and realized it's a gem! Will definitely grab the field in a few months.
Great videos by the way. Got a Sub from me. 👊🏿
@stuntmanmadeit thanks for watching and sharing your experience! I’m glad the OP is working well for you!
Hi! I enjoy the video, and would like to bring my point of view.I feel that trying to make this machine what is not will always leads to polemics and frustration. The OP "introduced" a new way to create music which , in my opinion , is pushing experimentation, creativity and commitment. In an age where I hear the majority of hobbyist producer suffering from option paralysis , this device can be refreshing and incredibly inspiring. OP1 was my gateway into ambient and content creation, and I still believe that it can be the cure for a lot of people who struggle with music creation block.There are tons of sequencers and machines that try to add on top of other machines without really bringing anything different. Let's nurture companies that try to go a little outside the boxes. We dont even have to buy this stuff, it is just great that it exists. And , just to be clear, I fully paid for it and not affiliate at all with TE. Ciao!
I’m honored you stopped by and watched my video! Genuinely appreciate the perspective you’re sharing here, thank you 🙏
Cope
I believe that TE wanted to own the supply chain for the Field range, all that in-house engineering cost results in a more expensive end-price. I don't think it can be compared to any of the devices you mentioned as I'd say its more of an instrument than a DAW replacement; and other than the OP-Z, none have to portability of the Field. Take your 10 year old iPad example (which would be the first gen Air), that is no longer supported by Apple, so no software updates and app support falls off as iOS/iPadOS can't be updated to run the updated apps. The Field will just continue to work as did the OG OP1.
The cost isn't particularly high when you compare it to other gear in the music industry (e.g. EuroRack, or outside of the synth world, look at guitar pedals and microphones). I personally like the tape workflow, but I have other gear too - I wouldn't recommend it to anyone as their only/first purchase!
When I bought my original OP-1 I thought it was very expensive at $799. But as I travel, I thought it would be great for use on airplanes and in hotels to spur creativity. It has met that need and I still take it with me and use it at home. Considering that I could still sell it for $700, the cost to own has been about $14 a year. Would You pay $1.25 a month to have an OP-1? Looking at it that way, it seems like a great deal to me.
Yeah I think the original asking price of the OG was pretty fair
I love my OP-1 original and use it as the controller to other synths when playing live. I generally use its synth engine for leads parts and sequencing. I really don't use it as a song writing tool. I could if I want to but I have other means to write and record my songs. I also love its sampler. It's fantastic. If it's good enough for Depeche Mode, then it is a serious device. As far as obtaining the new field version then I would love to have one in the near future. I like the stereo aspects of it.
There’s a reason why the OP1 is the most sold device on Reverb. People buy it, realize it’s not for them, decide to sell it on Reverb. Then because it’s the most sold device on Reverb, somebody thinks there must be a reason why it’s so popular so they buy it only to sell it back a few weeks later because it’s not for them. So it only takes a few thousands OP1 that constantly gets pumped and dumped on Reverb to make it the most sold device on Reverb and make people think it’s a really good instrument that is really popular.
Hahahaha oh man this is such a good point I had never considered, thank you for sharing
I generally have suspicion on a device that's sold a lot. I feel like it implies people grow tired of it or are dissatisfied with it. Especially items that are supply constrained.
plus for $2k you can buy a push 3 standalone(!) which is lightyears ahead in every sense. not the same size, but the same price.
Glad you mentioned an ipad running logic pro. I wish Bitwig was available for it also.
I’ve never tried bitwig but that would be rad!
Dirtywave M8 is in the portable market: no keyboard, but very detailed sequencer and great synthesizer/ sound quality.
I have an OP-1 that i got pretty cheap 2nd hand, and I love fooling around with it, but I totally agree with you and would never spent the full price without more room for projects and tracks
I got one after all the OP-1 hype, knowing it’s limitations - wanting to check out the hype- and knowing that I could return it in 30 days. Went back after 2 weeks. It’s cool. It’s not $3k (AUD) cool. I’ve got the deluge which is much more capable
There is Dirtywave M8. Not quite the same of course but quarter the price and even more capable and smaller. Btw. Great video
Thanks for watching! Based on the comments on this video I definitely need to try the m8!
@@DylanParisMusic you should. I realy like my OPZ and it is something special ( especially as an idea generator), but man, M8 is on another level - nothing is so quick to operate, so versatile and sample slicing capabilities are probably the best of all audio gear I know.
Seems like the OP-Z beats this device in that you can set it to "manual save" and you can keep duplicating patterns (160 of them) which allows more creative exploration without losing anything.
FL Studio mobile is $15 and Andrew Huang has had his app Flip out for a while now. I started out on Fl mobile and made plenty of musical doodles on it before moving to a full DAW and I would stay it's still a very capable app of getting your ideas into an arranger to save for later.
Mobile apps are rad!
The field is 32-bit/96kHz stereo vs. 16-bit on the Tracker Mini.
The points you made about the Field are spot on but you must have been aware of all those limitations before buying it, right?
Just wait until the TP-7 starts get hits based on how cool; it looks. Folk will be desperate to fall over themselves to proclaim how much they love it...and then struggle to it will just become an un-used prop to sit on the desk. Next to the PO-400.
I lost it at “it’s a fake tape”. You are so right
I didn't watch the whole video, it became a bit repetitive with comparing the op-1 to the Ipad Pro. Mind you I never owned an op-1 but you cannot really compare an Ipad to an op-1. The way of interacting is very different, the interface is nothing alike. I'd go even further that comparing the op-1 to a laptop makes more sense in the way that you see it, since both have keys and a screen. I think your point about the workflow makes sense and that there isn't really anything in the market that competes with the op-1.
I come to this video often, this time around I’m realizing it’s a great thing you’re hammering this point of “no one in this space”. The fact it reaches over 20,000 people is important; maybe it will incentivize companies…
Talking just money, one could buy a Moog GM or Subsequent and a MPC for the price of the OP. But on the go this is nice yet imho too expensive. What app does more or less the same on phone or tablet?
I love my OP-Z though. Great travel device that also works well dawless w other gear.
OP-Z has a lot to love!
#metoo !
Good to hear someone who has owned and used one, and really wanted to like it say this stuff. However everything you (rightly) complain about was known and out there as soon as the instrument was released, with the Field being openly derided by most in the synth community, and even many of the bigger content providers who are getting to review this stuff free balking at the price point, limited upgrades from the OP1 and the continuing undo issue as well as TE's shocking standards of customer service. I'm interested to know if you didn't do your research sufficiently or if you were just blinded by the form factor?
Valid critique! I did a TON of research but sometimes you think you’ll click with something or that other people are blowing things out of proportion
I love the design and was planning to save 6 months for it. Now I don’t, after watching your video. Thanks for the detailed feedback!
Definitely better things you can buy for the money, but I totally understand the appeal
I have one and I think it's marvelous. I agree with a lot of your wish list items though.
Massively overpriced? I suppose that depends on how much it costs to source/make parts and the labor/skill required to make the item, no? Perhaps the reason other companies aren't doing something similar is because it's not feasible to do it without charging something similar.
I personally think the device's beauty and concept and unique character are worth something. It's not all about strict utility, nor should it be. There's art in it as well and I'm willing to pay for that. I would hope a lot of musicians would - even if this isn't the device that warrants the trade-off.
This is a very thoughtful comment and I absolutely respect where you’re coming from. I would only pushback on the cost. I’m confident this could be made with more functionality at half the price, but the market showed them they could charge much more over and over with the restocked OP-1 original and the 300 dollar bags, 1500 desks etc. I think they use their designer brand status to overprice things lately, but I’m genuinely stoked you’re enjoying your device
@@DylanParisMusic May I ask what makes you confident?
Also to be clear I don't know either. But perhaps your background gives you that insight. Personally I think the fact that you are holding up TE as an example worthy of imitation is part of their value as a company.
I wouldn't call a Ferrari overpriced for its market. I'm just not the market. Aesthetics, brand values, industrial design, artistry all matter - and consumer behavior proves it matters. I think, and hope, most of us are willing to pay for those things as we might be willing to pay for a vintage guitar or a valued recording, or an expensive concert ticket, or a beautiful painting. I think that's as it should be.
The price of basically every other device on the planet in every category
Additionally the high mark up hypebeast style pricing on so much of the other products they sell. They price what they think people will pay and have increased the perceived value of their gear at the expensive of becoming the Gucci or Supreme of music gear
@@DylanParisMusic I offer that respectfully as a counterpoint. For many of us, the value of the object as a tool is paramount first and foremost and I understand that.
iPad production slaps unbelievably hard. Beatmaker 3, LoopyPro, Koala and Drambo. Add some AUs. You still do have to spend around 1000 to get it fully up to snuff. I'm half considering to just hunker down and commit completely to not lusting after gear and diving head first into the aforementioned apps. Drambo is absolutely astonishing, it's like having every Elektron box in a small portable touchscreen with sampling and incredible sequencing. But it's not Elektron and it doesn't have knobs so like, it's not shiny or something. That said, I agree that the touchscreen isn't ideal and thats why people still like these readymades. Also, hardware sound and the fun of a piece of equipment is fully worth the money at times. I played with my RYTM tonight and it was extremely fun and sounded amazing. The thing is, if people have iPads and aren't fully utilizing them and then turning to these expensive pieces of gear, that's just an error that I'm also guilty of making. Personally I really want to start taking Drambo and Koala a lot more seriously and using my iPad as a serious player in my rig, rather than seeing it as a kind of fun thing to dabble with. Drambo is just too powerful to treat like that, imo.
Drambo has been too dense for me to get into for a long time, someday i need to just put my head down and read a manual / watch some videos and learn more
I'm looking forward to the "Reliq" Sequencer/Router, to unify all my hardware into one workflow, to have a proper offline alternative to my beloved software DAW (FL Studio).
TE products feel like great quality, but they often fall short under the hood. I've had a few pocket operators break (both lcd and faulty buttons), my op-z bend and get double trigs as a result and a faulty headphone jack on my op-1 that's just over a year old. I also am developing a double trig on my op-1 key. Guess how much I'd have to pay to get a replacement headphone jack? Like $100. TE makes beautiful stuff, but its surface level.
That’s a brutal fix price!
I bought the first op-1 in 2013. I payed it 799. Great deal. But right now, you are right man. Two grand is insane.
Great video, and I respect your opinions and you made compelling arguments. For me though, for me, I really love it. In the 90's we had four track tape recorders, midi on computers, and limited tracker style sampling which I've always felt was like filling in musical notes in a spreadsheet. Being able to overdub record multiple notes from different sounds onto a track then drop that into the sampler is really cool. A real fourtrack has no cut and paste per track from the clipboard for duplicating sections or keeping a copy in memory to paste back over a mistake, they were very unforgiving. I have a Yamaha QY-100 which has two octaves of mini keys and is handheld, detailed sequencer, pattern and song modes, lots of midi editing abilities and so on - but I prefer the tape style workflow.
Thanks for watching and for the kind words! Like I said in the video, if it’s working for you I’m super stoked! Appreciate you contributing to the conversation 🙏😎
I had the original OP but sold it a while back for the very reasons you are mentioning.😊
Understandable!
I love how people said the OG was overpriced at $900, and then it took off in popularity when TE hiked the price to $1300 lol. And then this one was $2000 and people still buy it.
What frustrates me about the tape is... you can slow down the speed and get more time, but the Album is still limited to 6 minutes -_- and saving presets, they're just named by the time/date and then you have to go in and change it. Is the Field the same nonsense?
I still like the synth engines of the OG. I am not buying a Field, or the Mixer, or the obscenely stupidly priced table/desk, etc.
wouldn't OP-Z + phone be all you need now? whenever im thinking of buying the OP-1 i just tell myself im just paying 2k for a small screen...
yeah the main thing you get with the field vs the z is stereo sampling / instruments / fx. But i do prefer the workflow of the Z a lot compared to the OP 1
I think it depends on what you want from it. I think the Op1Field is great for standalone use and using it in combination with a daw. People spend 2k on an analog synth or a semimodular, this thing can be a lot more versatile because its a sampler.
I stand by my video but obviously all opinions shared on this platform are subjective for sure! if you dig it that's cool!
Oh, man, I feel you so much. It's an aesthetically good looking device with such a small form factor, but it makes me feel so frustrated almost every time I use it. Honestly I don't get how people get creative with the limitations it has and actually enjoy the workflow. The original OP-1 was my first synth and I had a lot of fun with it, but that was because I was completely blind as to what other synths had to offer. After a few months of upgrading to the Field I can't shake the feeling that I have been scammed.
I recently got the Dirtywave M8 Tracker and I think I have found my perfect super portable DAW. Maybe you could try it out, it's a very very capable device, the community is amazing and it's getting updated constantly, getting better each time.
To me, Dirtywave is the perfect example of how companies should work, by actually making sick gear for the money they ask and supporting their community, rather than just setting up an inflated price tag with the excuse to be a "design agency". I mean, I am a designer and I know the importance of design, but at this point the whole Field line is just an abuse.
So, why did 7 comments saying the same thing about the m8 tracker being better drop the same half an hour 9 months ago?
@@notreally-sf3df idk, but I decided to keep the OP-1 Field and I love it now haha. Still frustrating at times.
@@koiqueeen Nice save. Literally the span and I found 21 comments doing it.
I have seen a few videos of it and it is amazing. The OP1 seems to me like a world of fun. It is unike and it has no competitors like you said. But 2,000 is a downside for me because i do not know if it is reliable and of course i am not rich. An my concern is also about the quality of the outputs. I know the Field improved the output noise of the "mk1". I feel super tempted by it even if it cost 2,000 because per videos i watched i think is a great tool and it means tons of hours of fun. I like the minimal design and mostly its capabilities. If the price was 1,000 i will not think twice.
I’m a pro producer/writer with a fully synth and drum machine stocked studio. I bought the field to see if it would serve as an idea capturing device that would easily transfer/work with a pro studio setup. It is not and does not. It’s almost made to make it harder to implement into a pro setup. In some ways it feels like a toy. If the ui was less limiting and played well with others it would be valuable and worth whatever. For me, because it does none of the above, it’s not worth anything.
The lack of undo for me encourages experimentation. Some of the best and most experimental music ever made was made on cassette 4-tracks. This puts me in that mindset, and it's super creative and freeing.
I’m glad it does that for you! It absolutely does the opposite for myself and others. Once you’ve had to bounce down tracks because there’s only 4, the risk of recording over two or more layers that you’d have to either meticulously copy and repaste from another section of the tape or lose forever if you’re not keeping backup sections means that I was only ever going for the simplest and easiest to pull off phrases in a dubbing scenario. An undo would have made it at a moot point cause if I messed up and wrote over an important and multilayered single track I could hit undo and not have permanently messed it up or have to go back and rebuild with copy paste
I gotta agree with Dylan, undo feature for any architecture is SUPER clutch because users can tweak experiments in stages. For example on elektron I can randomly modulate knobs at will until it sounds good - then [copy] that alternate version and [undo] to move back to the original. Create a new track and [paste] the alternate version. Super fast way to create variations and experiment non-destructively.
Much appreciated your content, the more people complain, the more pressure pushing those lazy asses working harder.
My dude!!! 🫡🫡😎🖤🙏
I had both opz+op1f and must say yes.... it's heartbreaking when some super basic functions aren't there like undo/transport for sequencers (imagine u want to use your sequencer and need to time pressing play+start sequencer which is impossible!!), USB-c Audio doesn't work as it's said (you can't even send/receive audio on an iPad!!!), the only 4 tracks, no quantization etc etc.... man so disappointing... but best thing for sketching and playin/inspiring
I have the original OP-1, and I love it. You have to accept what it is and then use its best capabilities. That's what I do, and the 1-project limitation is not an issue when using it with Ableton. The tape device is just part of its character. It forces you to practice to get things right before recording a track. It's just a unique device. Adding value to my Ableton projects, which I occasionally use as a musical sketchbook in standalone mode. I never try to create a complete song on the OP-1, just use it to contribute tracks to a song in Ableton. I also use a Digitone in that way.
I think at the original price of the original op 1 that’s a solid use case, at 2000 just being a sketch pad is not enough for me
Just my two cents, as the title of the video is a bit strong, in my opinion.
I am a longtime user of the original OP-1 (from the day it was available on the market), and I also use Deluge, M8 and MPCS. The OP-1 Field has a very particular sound and captivating effects - even if the way of putting new sounds and samples is not so direct, but it has a battery, a speaker... so it is, after all, an all-in-one.
I understand that the main thing that draws people away from the OP is its workflow, as the "tape" mechanic does not let you have a detailed control of the notes you record. When I use the Polyend Tracker (waiting for the mini) and the M8 I can control any single note that I put in the grid, but here.. it is just real time playing as if I had an old tape recording machine. Being a pianist I find it amazing, and this is the ONLY portable self-contained instrument that gives me the feeling ot "play and record" and not of "programming". Of course you can use the "sequencer" to "program" beats, melodies and harmonies, but I really prefer the "play" feeling, especially now that they added the dynamic keyboard! Then you have the built in radio (receiver and trasmitter) that you can sample too. Building a song has become easy for me... just play, rec, cut and paste, add tracks... and so on. As for the price, I love T.E. devices for their design and build quality (let alone some problems I had with a late OP-Z), so I do not think that "price" is a good reason to blast them... there are so many alternatives in the market.. also speaking software daws running on low spec pcs (live, renoise, etc.) that you are not obliged to buy this.
So, back to the title of the video. OP-1 Field is Overpriced AND Overhyped. It means "if you like it you are stupid", as far as I see things. And even if I can agree with some things you described in the videos, of course I cannot agree to the title assumption and consequences lol.
I think you're putting words in my mouth to be honest. I didn't say anyone was stupid if they liked it. The title is that I think it's overhyped by people and it costs too much. Like I say in the video I'm just a random dude on the internet, if you like it, then you're good!
I had the original. Mentally, it was too much like the Casio MT30 I owned in the 80's. Sold it and a few other beat boxes. Bought an iPad M2 1TB with Logic and Zenbeats. Have not looked back.
If you like trackers, Dirtywave M8 is the way to go. It ticks all if the boxes as far as getting cool beats started while on the go. It’s got more features than Polyend Tracker, stereo sampling and it doesn’t rely on internal memory like the Polyend Tracker. Memory is only limited to the size and quality of the sd card. I can’t even pocket my op-z without feeling like I’m gonna break it… M8 and earbuds, DONE! … Connect your smartphone if you want to sample.
Are some of the features you want something that could be fixed with updates?
for me the OP 1 was a good companion great sketch for ideas but has now been replaced by ipad with logic because I travel a lot and can finish my projects much easier when I'm back
It still has all the flaws that made me regret buying the OP-1 and still makes me glad I sold it.
Really looking forward to get one of these little puppies!
This might be a hot take, but this is not far off from an MPC. MPC can sample, has synths, and can record. Sure, it doesn't have the tape gimmick, anyone can impose their own restrictions (not undoing a record attempt). Other companies are close, but need to consider the form factor
Yeah the MPC is great, would love a mini One with a battery
Interesting take, but I think the tape recording is an elegant solution to the problem with very portable workstations: limited track count. Want more tracks? Bouncing to tape gives you basically unlimited tracks. Many other devices this size are limited by track count, but with the OP-1 you can create complex, fully layered music. I appreciate it takes a while to get used to working in this way, but for me it’s a keeper. I also think the sequencers on this device are best in class for helping generate ideas.
I think this was true in 2011 but the track limitation at this point is way too low and resampling allows this sort of thing on most other devices as well
9:56 Like at that price it should come with Micrro USB support and a 1TB micro SD card that you can have functionally unlited tapes on....
For real!!
Wrong! Korg MicroStation with 61 mini keys, 16 track sequencer, Midi enabled, awesome Korg sounds 😊and Korg applications!
I love the tape style workflow of this thing as someone that likes to record audio and me playing an instrument, and then experimenting with the playback style of the tape and using techniques like copying and paste, over dubbing or bouncing down is it really interesting. Workflow that I find very inspiring. And then you have the portability coupled with a few effects pedals makes this a really fun tool to just mess around with and come up with really interesting ideas.
That’s really sick! I’m glad its working for you 🙏😎
I wish I could agree with you.
Great video dude!!
Thank you! 🙌🙏
How about "The OP-1 is just not for me"?
I don't see any other device with this size, this well-built that has this many features packed into something you can throw in your backpack and have fun making music. It can receive and transmit MIDI over bluetooth. It has a very good radio in it. It can sample and has a sample chopper in it. What other device that size has all of that? They're putting it into an air-plane grade casing as well. This is why it's expensive. I don't think TE even thinks they're going to sell a ton of them. But look at the engineering which is what TE's main business is. This is a device that also showcases their talent.
Also, you can make several sequences using the Finger sequencer that fit together before you even start recording. You can do this with the drum loops too. You can use the tape to try things out and then go back to the sequencers to adjust things before finally laying it out on tape. What I love about that final part is that it gives you that feeling of performing something and it retains a touch of that human element. That also makes it an instrument.
Thats fine if it's not for you. It's okay if it's not for you. I think a lot of people who like it know it's not for everyone and not everyone should go into debt buying one. I myself would recommend the Deluge before I would recommend the OP-1...but that is such a "my opinion-is-fact" clickbait title.
Don't forget the blackbox! Very portable sampler which is often overlooked.
I don't really like comparing an iPad with a full blown DAW to a backpack groovebox like the OP-1, but I am VERY glad to hear someone calling out TE for the OBSCENE price of the field. If they were going to release a successor or an upgrade to the OP-1 it should have UNLIMITED projects, UNLIMITED tape length time, AFTERTOUCH, full step sequencer and a lot more, especially for their price. The Synthstrom Deluge runs circles around the OP-1 especially with all the bonus features they've worked in with the firmware updates.
Fair! Yeah the iPad is definitely different but theres something about Logic on iPad that feels like a groovebox somehow
This is ridiculous. Gear is ALWAYS a balance of different elements. You could maybe have 'unlimited' storage via memory cards, but most of the rest is just silly. If you ramp up the ceiling for cpu usage then you have to start thinking about a more powerful cpu. Which needs more power. Then you have to think about battery life and heat. You also have to think about interface design. On a small screen like this, expanding the volume of data is going to start to get unfeasible to navigate.
I don't want this device. But I understand design and I understand that they aimed to do something very specific and it works very well within the parameters they set. One thing it does is to make people COMMIT and move forward instead of endlessly fluffing around in possibilities. It's those creative limitations that have always led to the best art. If you want a device that does everything under the sun, get an iPad. but dont expect to be able to focus on it when your email and your browser and everything else is right there too.
The review is self-defeating : what's the point in saying you want more tapes and then a minute later saying you don't want tapes at all? What's the point in stating there's nothing else that fills that unique space but then saying you don't like what it is? Why should TE try to fulfil those non-criteria? They look at this and say - this guy doesn't know what he wants, he can't do what we do and think how we think. And I know what their conclusion is.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts 🙏😎
the Polyend Tracker Mini and M8 are smaller and can do more
To break things down further, the Dirtywave M8 runs circles around the (as of yet unreleased Polyend Tracker Mini), and also has (documented) much more support in terms of bug fixes and feature updates. M8 is the king of portable grooveboxes, imo
is this better than an ipad?
Not in my opinion
Great review Dylan I have the original op-1 and I agree with everything you said 100%.!!
thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!
I got a Waldorf M and a 61 key keyboard for less than 2000. No comparison, except you have to be able to play.
It’s interesting to me to see how people react to the tape machine. I’m an oldhead who learned to make music on a tascam four track in the early 90s. When DAWs on computers became ubiquitous, it was exciting to have more possibilities, but then I ended up buying another tascam four track for the simplicity and the creative limitations. Sometimes you don’t realize how good something can be until you try something different. I think the tape and the lack of undo are exactly why the op-1 appeals to me. It’s the benefits of the four track, but also having all of your instruments in that same very small and portable box. To each his own, I suppose. Do I wish it was cheaper? Absolutely. But for me, the limitations are what makes it attractive.
That’s a super fair take! I’m glad it works for you
That’s funny that’s exactly why I like it. Reminds me of the old days, bouncing down tracks, having to nail a take, etc
Hell yeah, I’m honestly stoked it’s what you’re looking for!
honestly if TE would just allow 3rd parties to make the software for the op1, it would solve all their problems. like i could probably make a badass maxpatcher that would do everything and more, and to have it run in something as sexy as the op1 would be amazing.
That would be super interesting. Would be a technical support nightmare for TE but could open up a lot of doors
I have two of those: for me, totally worth the asking price.
It triggers my creativity, an iPad does not ...