The latest Woody Piano Shack video features a review of the Arturia MicroFreak synthesizer.
While the Arturia MicroFreak was released back in 2019, it has evolved significantly since then, and since many of the early reviews. And the MicroFreak is not now only available new, but is also readily available used, starting around $250 USD.
Woody shares his thoughts on the MicroFreak, and calls it a ‘super synth’ for the price. What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Note: The video is a little unclear about this, but the MicroFreak does have polyphonic aftertouch. And for a more in-depth overview, see this complete guide to the Arturia MicroFreak.
I think the Microfreak does not get the respect it deserves because of its somewhat toylike appearance. It is a great piece of kit that is surprisingly deep. It is also quite reasonably priced.
I have over 40 synthesizers in my studio. But if there were a fire, I’d grab my microfreak and jump out the window. If I had an extra minute, I’d also grab my minifreak. But the microfreak is definitely coming with me.
When I was considering it’s purchase, I was concerned it was going to end up on the shelf of bad (and sometimes broken) purchases, because of the capacitor-style keyboard. But I was so wrong. It offers a fluidity of expressive playing that standard keyboards don’t allow.
Noe I always take a closer look at capacitor style keyboards. I’m completely in love.
I have only one complain about minifreak and microfreak, and that would be the internal effects.
As soon as you use proper FXs, such a s pedals or external gear, it really shines.
The reverbs and delays are not good at all. Meh would be the word.
Soundwise and in terms of sound palette is the absolute winner for the price. Really cool and fun machines. I strongly recommend at least having one of them.
Well, the Micro has no internal effects. So there you are.
I replaced all of these presets with these ones: https://www.ultimatepatches.com/synth-patches-presets/arturia-microfreak/microfreak-patches-presets.html
It sings.
I started my new Youtube Playlist « Tweakies » today with it.I own a Minifreak and a Microfreak which I love: Tweaky 001 #Arturia #Microfreak
https://youtube.com/shorts/mcT0xN4mhVU
A Microfreak through a Zoom MS70CDR is an ambient dream.
That Zoom pedal is one of the best friends a synth could have. Its not the A-1 first choice for every effects need, but there’s not much it can’t handle. Its ideal for a Microfreak, because they both occupy their own colorful slot. I wouldn’t try to do a traditional solo with a Micro, but its outstanding for special FX, pads or sampling its juicier patches for other uses. Its a secret weapon.