Synthstrom Deluge — VS — Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field

Synthstrom Deluge

The Synthstrom Deluge is a powerful all-in-one music production workstation that combines a synthesizer, sampler, sequencer, and audio looper in a compact, portable design. Featuring a versatile internal synth engine (subtractive, wavetable, and FM), deep modulation capabilities, and MPE support, it allows for rich sound design and expressive control. Its 128-pad interface enables piano-roll-style sequencing, live performance, and arranging with features like Euclidean sequencing, probability, and advanced timing options. The Deluge streams samples directly from SD, supports multisampling and resampling, and includes robust live looping tools with seamless overdubbing. With extensive connectivity (CV/gate, MIDI, USB), a built-in mic and speaker, and a rechargeable battery for standalone operation, the Deluge is a fully self-contained music creation tool designed for both studio composition and live performance.

Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field

The OP-1 Field is a super cool, all-in-one music maker you can take anywhere. It's small, strong, and sounds amazing. You can play music, record sounds, and mix it all together right on the device. It has a bright screen, loud speakers, and even velcro on the back to add fun stuff. You can connect it to your phone or computer, and it works great with other music gear too. Whether you're at home or outside, it's ready to help you create awesome music.

Spec	Synthstrom Deluge	Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field
Manufacturer	Synthstrom Audible	Teenage Engineering
Year Released	2017	2022
Polyphony	128	8
Sample Rate	44.1kHz	44.1kHz
Storage	MicroSD card	Internal storage
Pads	No pads, uses buttons and keyboard	No pads, uses buttons
Sequencer	Yes	Yes
Effects	Multiple effects	Multiple effects
I/O	MIDI In/Out, USB, Audio In/Out	USB Audio, MIDI
Screen	LCD display	OLED display
Software Integration	No	No
Build	Standalone sampler/synth/sequencer	Portable synth/sampler/sequencer
Price	$1529	$1999
More about	Details	Details

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A Short Summary

In the world of music-making gear, the Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field and the Synthstrom Deluge are two celebrated devices known for their unique capabilities. Despite both being standalone music workstations, they cater to different needs and preferences. Let’s dive in to discover which one might be the right fit for you!

Introduction

Hey there, music enthusiasts! If you’re on the hunt for a cool new gadget to add to your music-making arsenal, you’ve probably come across the Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field and the Synthstrom Deluge. Both of these devices are known for being amazing tools for musicians, but they have their own special features that make them stand out. Today, we’re going to explore these two samplers, comparing their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide which one is the best fit for your musical journey.

What Are These Samplers?

First off, let’s talk about what these devices are. The Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field and the Synthstrom Deluge are both standalone samplers, synthesizers, and sequencers. This means they can play, record, and mix sounds all by themselves without needing a computer. They are perfect for musicians who love to create music on the go or for those who want to have everything they need in one device.

The Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field

Features and Design

The Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field is a hybrid synth, sampler, and sequencer that was released in 2022. This device is known for its unique workflow and design. It has a simple, sleek look with an OLED display that shows all the important information you need when creating music. The OP-1 Field does not have traditional pads; instead, it uses buttons for input. Although it doesn’t offer software integration, it does come with USB Audio and MIDI capabilities, which can be handy for connecting with other gear.

In terms of sound, the OP-1 Field offers 8-note polyphony, which means you can play up to 8 notes at once. This is pretty good for a portable device! It also has multiple effects to enhance your sounds. The sample rate is 44.1kHz, which is standard for high-quality audio. This device is powered by internal storage, so you don’t need to worry about buying extra memory cards.

Pros

Portable Design: The OP-1 Field is known for its compact and portable design, making it easy to take anywhere.
Unique Workflow: Its interface is different from most other devices, which some users find inspiring.
Built-in Effects: With multiple effects, you can easily add depth and character to your sounds.

Cons

Pricey: At $1300, it might be out of reach for some beginners.
Limited Polyphony: Only 8-note polyphony might not be enough for more complex compositions.
No Software Integration: It doesn’t integrate with software, which might limit some users’ workflows.

The Synthstrom Deluge

Features and Design

The Synthstrom Deluge, released in 2017, is another powerful standalone sampler, synthesizer, and sequencer. Unlike the OP-1 Field, it offers 128-note polyphony, which is fantastic for creating rich, layered compositions. The device uses a MicroSD card for storage, which allows for more flexibility in managing your projects and samples.

The Deluge has a more extensive interface with an LCD display, and it uses both buttons and a keyboard for input. This can make it feel a bit more like a traditional music production tool. The device also has MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out capabilities, making it versatile for connecting with other equipment. Like the OP-1 Field, it supports multiple effects and has a sample rate of 44.1kHz.

Pros

High Polyphony: With 128-note polyphony, the Deluge is great for complex compositions.
Flexible Storage: The use of a MicroSD card means you can easily expand your storage.
Connectivity Options: With various I/O options, it’s easy to integrate into larger setups.

Cons

Higher Price: At $2000, it’s even more expensive than the OP-1 Field.
Complex Interface: The interface might be intimidating for beginners.
Less Portable: It’s not as compact as the OP-1 Field, making it less ideal for travel.

Feature Comparisons

Polyphony

When it comes to polyphony, the Synthstrom Deluge takes the lead with an impressive 128-note capability. This is perfect for musicians who want to create intricate and layered compositions. On the other hand, the Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field offers 8-note polyphony. While this is sufficient for simpler arrangements, it might be limiting for those who want to experiment with more complex pieces.

Storage

Storage is another area where these two devices differ significantly. The OP-1 Field has internal storage, which means you don’t have to purchase additional memory cards. However, this can also limit the amount of data you can store. The Deluge, with its MicroSD card storage, offers more flexibility. You can easily upgrade your storage by swapping out cards, which is a big plus for those who work with large sample libraries.

User Interface

The user interface is crucial when it comes to making music. The OP-1 Field’s interface is simple and intuitive, with an OLED display and button-based input. Many users find its unique workflow inspiring and easy to grasp. Conversely, the Deluge has an LCD display with both buttons and a keyboard, providing a more traditional interface. While this can be advantageous for those familiar with such setups, it might be overwhelming for beginners.

Connectivity

In terms of connectivity, the Deluge has an edge. It features MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out, making it easy to connect with other gear. The OP-1 Field, while equipped with USB Audio and MIDI, lacks some of these additional options, which could be a drawback for users who want to integrate their device into larger setups.

Who Are These Samplers For?

Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field

The OP-1 Field is perfect for musicians who value portability and a unique, inspiring workflow. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy creating music on the go and for beginners who want an easy-to-use device. However, its price might be a barrier for some.