Sequential FOURM vs Prophet 5

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Is the Sequential FOURM effectively a "Prophet 4"? In this deep-dive comparison, I put Sequential’s compact powerhouse up against the legendary Prophet 5 to see how closely it recreates that iconic vintage DNA.

While the FORUM shares a strikingly intuitive Prophet-style interface—complete with dual oscillators, a resonant low-pass filter, and a dedicated polymod section—it also brings modern innovations to the table that the original Prophet simply can’t match.

We’ll explore the sonic character of the FORUM’s SSI chips, which act as modern recreations of the warm, fuzzy SSM chips found in the original Prophet 5 Rev 1 and Rev 2. By recreating classic factory patches side-by-side, we reveal the subtle differences in envelope behavior and modulation flexibility between these two analog beasts.

🎹 What’s Covered:
• The "Prophet 4" Factor: Comparing the interface, layout, and "familiar" feel of both synths.
• SSI vs. SSM vs. Curtis: Breaking down the filter and oscillator chips that define their warmth and grit.
• Modern Upgrades: Exploring the FORUM’s Poly Aftertouch, built-in arpeggiator, and digital clock sync.
• The Feedback Circuit: A demo of the FORUM's unique feedback loop that adds "MiniMoog-style" grit and prevents bass loss at high resonance—something the Prophet 5 famously struggles with.
• Patch Recreation: A side-by-side listening test of 8 classic patches to hear the real-world sonic differences.

🔗 Stay Connected:
• Exclusive Patches & Samples: Join the community on Patreon for the custom banks used in this video!
• Shop Sound Banks: Visit StarkeyCar.com for professional patches, tutorials, and freebies.
• Socials: Check out my Instagram for more gear shots and studio updates."

⏱️ Timestamps:
• 00:00 – Intro: Single Voice vs. Polyphonic Power
• 00:46 – Interface & Layout Comparison
• 01:23 – The Tech Specs: SSI Chips & Analog VCAs
• 03:08 – Side-by-Side Patch Recreations
• 04:05 – Analyzing Envelope & Drop-off Differences
• 04:40 – PolyMod of the pulse width
• 07:54 – Modulation & Polymod Limitations
• 11:37 – Beyond the Prophet: Feedback & Resonance
• 13:50 – Poly Aftertouch Demo
• 14:20 – Build Quality & Final Verdict

Prophet-5 vs Prophet-10: The sound test & my REAL thoughts

video upload by Doctor Mix

"🔥🎹👉 Explore the Sequential Prophet-10: https://sequential.com/product/prophe... 👈🎶🔥

A lot of people think it's just about voice count, but there's more to it. I'll take you deep into their unique character, how their polyphony impacts your composition, and critically, which one truly fits your specific production workflow and musical vision. In this video, I'm putting these iconic synths head-to-head 🎛️. I'll compare their oscillators (sawtooth and square wave) and filters (Rev 1 and Rev 3) to uncover all the sonic nuances. I'll also explore modern features like aftertouch and velocity modulation found on the Prophet-10 🎹, showing you exactly how they impact expressive performance. You'll hear direct comparisons, and I'll show you how these analog machines handle tuning and drift, giving you my comprehensive take on what makes each Prophet unique.

🎬 What you’ll see and hear in this video:

• 🔊 My in-depth comparison of Prophet-5 vs. Prophet-10 oscillators
• 🎛️ Dissecting the sonic characteristics of Rev 1 and Rev 3 filters
• 🎵 The impact of aftertouch and velocity modulation on synthesis
• 🧐 Exploring analog drift and the 'tune' function
• 🎹 How polyphony (5 vs. 10 voices) shapes my playing
• ✨ Uncovering subtle sonic differences in sawtooth and square waves
• 💡 My practical insights for choosing the right Prophet for your studio

🔥 Visit my Doctor Mix website for sound packs, courses, merch & more
👉 https://doctormix.com


🎧 Professional Services
Get your music professionally mixed, mastered, or produced
👉 https://doctormix.com/services"

Waves of Evermore | A 3rd Wave 8M soundscape

video upload by MIDERA

"I picked up a 3rd wave 8M in a trade (my Jupiter 6 and Poly Evolver for their Xpander, 3rd Wave, Chase bliss Thermae, and cash) and honestly didn't think I'd like the 3rd wave very much, after having played the 24 voice desktop. Surprisingly, I am liking it more than I thought I would. Can't say I like the voice count at 8, especially if you can get the 24 voice for $2500 used... but it's not too bad. I just notice the voices dropping off on the 8M in a way I don't with other 8 voice synths like the Prophet VS. I wonder why that is, apart from maybe the 8M having a much longer release stage to the envelopes, but otherwise I have no idea.

Well, I do like it, sounds really nice actually."

Sequential Circuits Prophet VS Keyboard SN 2400-1063

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Vemia listing

Click the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.

"I bought this at VEMIA last year because it was at a fantastic price and thought I'd risk having to do a bit of work on it at that price. In fact it was far better than I expected, perfect working order inc the aftertouch which is often not good, new OLED display, I think originally imported from Wine Country (always a good sign, never seen a bad synth from them), sounds great, looks ace, much nicer to use than the rack, plus the original manual. But I've got to be sensible. As someone else once said, too many synths. Start price is what I paid.
Back at VEMIA for photos and packing. 18GBP."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Prophet-10 in the Studio: 10 Voices, Aftertouch, and Why It's Better Than You Think

video upload by Doctor Mix

"🔥🎹👉 Explore the Sequential Prophet-10: https://sequential.com/product/prophe...
👈🎶🔥

✨ The Sequential Prophet-10 is a modern revival of one of the most legendary analog synths ever made — now with 10 voices, vintage Rev1 & Rev3 filters, poly mod, unison, and expressive aftertouch.

In this video we bring the Prophet-10 straight into the studio and explore what it really sounds like — no manuals, no overthinking, just switching it on and playing.

We start with the raw analog sound, completely dry with no effects, then explore unison power, poly mod textures, expressive aftertouch, and the character of the Rev1 and Rev3 filters.

Along the way we create sounds live and see why the Prophet-10 remains one of the most inspiring analog synths ever made.

What you'll see and hear in this video:

• First hands-on exploration of the Sequential Prophet-10
• 10-voice analog architecture explained
• Raw Prophet-10 sound with zero effects
• Expressive playing with aftertouch
• Poly Mod magic and evolving analog textures
• Rev1 vs Rev3 filter character comparison
• Huge unison sounds and thick analog bass
• Pads, leads, and classic Prophet tones
• Real studio workflow and performance testing
• Why the Prophet-10 is such an inspiring instrument

🔥 Visit my Doctor Mix website for sound packs, courses, merch & more
👉 https://doctormix.com"

GreyScale-LiveZen

video upload by plantssystem

"GreyScale presents 'LiveZen' — a meditative performance shaped around the Duos.
Built with the Poly‑Sequencer, Prophet‑5, CS‑10, and the spatial processing of the VS‑1880 (RSS), this piece blends improvisational noise textures from Duos with the delicate tones of the Prophet‑5 and CS‑10.
A quiet, breathing soundscape that drifts between motion and stillness.

#livezen #duos #polysequencer #prophet5 #cs10 #ambient #rss #vs1880 #greyscale #noise"

Winter palace | Peaceful soundscape improvisation

video upload by MIDERA

"Playing the Prophet VS with NI Raum for reverb

#prophetvs #sequential #nativeinstruments"

RetroSound Studio Tour: Vintage Digital Synthesizers

video upload by RetroSound

"RetroSound Studio Tour:
Legendary Vintage Digital & Hybrid Synthesizers of the 80s and early 90s

In this episode of RetroSound Studio, I explore classic digital synthesizers that revolutionized electronic music production during the 80s and early 90s. From FM synthesis and wavetable synthesis to vector synthesis, PD synthesis, vitual analog and Roland’s LA synthesis, these instruments introduced a new generation of sound design and defined the sonic identity of an era.

The Yamaha DX7 became one of the best-selling synthesizers of all time, defining FM electric pianos and metallic digital textures. The PPG Wave pioneered wavetable synthesis, laying the foundation for modern digital sound engines. The Sequential Prophet VS introduced vector synthesis, allowing dynamic blending between digital waveforms. The Roland D-50 shaped late-80s pop and film scoring with its LA synthesis architecture, while the Roland JD-800 brought hands-on control back to digital synthesis in the 1990s.

These digital synthesizers shaped genres such as synth-pop, new wave, ambient, house, techno, trance, and film music. Today, they remain highly sought after by producers, collectors, and sound designers researching vintage digital synthesizers, 80s keyboard sounds, virtual analog, classic FM synthesis, and wavetable history."

The Digital & Hybrid Synths:
0:07 Sequential Prophet VS
4:39 PPG wave 2.2
10:36 Yamaha DX7 II FD
14:56 Yamaha DX11
16:39 Casio CZ-101
19:29 Casio VZ-1
21:21 Roland JD-800
26:40 Roland D-50 / D-550
28:00 Korg Wavestation EX / SR
31:24 Korg DW-8000 / EX-8000
32:42 Roland M-VS1
35:57 Kawai K5000R
38:57 Waldorf Microwave
39:44 Waldorf Microwave II XT
41:15 Clavia Nord Modular
41:59 Yamaha AN1x
44:36 Roland JV-1080
45:33 Ensoniq SQ-80
46:23 Quasimidi Raven Max
47:42 Korg Z1

Full Studio Tour playlist:

Stanky Sequential Super Saw Sonic Showdown - Fourm vs Take 5 vs Prophet 10

video upload by Pork Chop Synthesizers

Oberheim TEO-5 Arpeggi-GREAT!

video upload by Pork Chop Synthesizers

Also see Sequential Showdown Prophet 10 vs Take-5 vs Fourm

Sequential Showdown Prophet 10 vs Take-5 vs Fourm

Pt. 1 - Just Jammin' - video upload by Pork Chop Synthesizers

Update:

Sequential Showdown Pt. 2 - Init Patch Exploration - Prophet 10 vs Take-5 vs Fourm

video upload by Pork Chop Synthesizers

Sequential Showdown Pt. 3 - Pads 'n' Organs - Prophet 10 vs Take-5 vs Fourm

video upload by Pork Chop Synthesizers

Comparing the Sequential Fourm to the Pro-One

"I Compared the Sequential Fourm to My Pro-One" video upload by Starsky Carr

0:00 intro jam and info
5:04 Really Deep Bass - THE FILTER
9:14 They've got Oscillators
11:24 Creating a Few Tones
15:11 PWM and how to match them
19:10 F to the M
20:00 Show Me The Sync
21:19 Pushing the Envelope 24:06 Overall..?

"Some genuine surprises in this head-to-head with the Sequential Fourm and the legendary Sequential Pro-One to find out if the Fourm can give the same vibe.

At first glance, the architecture looks familiar: dual oscillators, classic envelopes, a focused modulation section, and unmistakable Prophet-era DNA from Prophet-5 territory. But the big question is this: does the Fourm capture the raw punch, deep bass, and aggressive character that made the Pro-One a cult classic?

.. and I know it's not a clone :) but in this in-depth demo and comparison, I explore:

Oscillator behaviour, sync, PWM and FM
Filter differences (including low-end depth and resonance extremes)
Envelope response and modulation range
Bass performance, subs, and room-shaking tones
Where the Fourm goes beyond the Pro-One — and where it doesn’t

Rather than obsessing over perfect null tests, this video focuses on feel, playability, and whether the Four inspires the same kinds of sounds and musical ideas as the original Pro-One.

If you’re into analog monosynths, Sequential gear, vintage vs modern comparisons, or you’re wondering whether a contemporary synth can truly stand in for a rising-price classic, this one’s for you.

🎧 Headphones or proper speakers strongly recommended — some of these bass tones go very deep."

Today Marks the 10th Anniversary of the Sequential Oberheim OB-6

Andrew McGowan, pictured here with Tom Oberheim, wrote in to let us know today is the 10th Anniversary of the Sequential OB-6. Andrew was a product designer at DSI/Sequential and worked with Tom Oberheim on the OB-6.

You can find a write-up on some the development of the OB-6 as well as the Prophet-6 on his website, https://www.smartbombdesign.com.

A couple of excerpts:

"I was sitting in my office at Seer Systems one day in 1997 or thereabouts when the phone on my desk rang. It was Dave Smith calling from his home. 'I’ve been talking to Tom Oberheim. He’s between jobs and wants to learn about software synths, so I asked him if he wanted to write the Reality operation manual. Can you get him set up and manage that?' I knew who Tom was, of course, but I had never met him, and now Dave was asking me to be his manager. I had no reason to believe that Tom was anything other than the warm, bright, and kind person that I now know he is, but the idea that I would be managing him made me deeply uncomfortable.

Seer Systems was in the process of developing Reality, which is generally considered to be the first 'professional' software synthesizer, though I’m not certain what makes one synthesizer professional and another not."

[Side note: Propellerheads Rebirth was also released in 1997, however the demo version was released in October 1996. A bit like The Damned vs. Sex Pistols for those in the know!]

And [thought this was funny]:

"Those Fucking Lines

Tom and I had talked about synths over the years and, on several occasions, he remarked how often people asked him to remake the OB-X, perhaps because not many were made. Or maybe Rush/Tom Sawyer? I don’t know. What little I did know about the OB-X was that it had a (low-pass only) SEM filter, and we had already made a synth with an SEM filter in it. And our hardware engineer Tony Karavidas had worked at Oberheim and owned multiple Oberheim synths. I also felt very strongly that if we were going to make two poly synths that were essentially the same except for the filter, the 2-pole, SEM state-variable filter would be complementary to the Prophet-6’s 4-pole, OTA low-pass filter.

Tom’s wish list was short. He didn’t want the Prophet-6’s analog distortion. And he wanted the OB-Xa’s blue lines."

Read the rest here

[P.S. I still own an OB-6 desktop and it's one of my most cherished synths. There is something organic about it. The demos I've heard of Sequential's new FOURM have that about them. I have enough synths as it is but the FOURM is very, very tempting for this particular reason.]

Sequential Circuits Prophet VS Rackmount SN 0276

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this eBay listing

Pics of the inside below.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Prophet VS 🎹 #synth #synthesizer #synthwave ...

video upload by RetroSound

Along the way | Sequential Prophet VS and Rhodes Piano improvisation

video upload by MIDERA

"I don't know what I was thinking. At the time, I liked how the Prophet sounded, so I recorded this. But it’s not very good.

Fractal Audio FM3 used for FX.

#prophetvs #rhodespiano #fractalaudiofm3"

Vintage Synths Doing Classic Horror Movie Themes | Top 8

video upload by Espen Kraft

"8 horror movie theme covers performed with a variety of classic 80s and 90s synths, samplers and drum machines.

The thumbnail image is not AI generated."

Roland JX-3P, Yamaha KX88, Roland Juno-106, Roland JX-8P, Elka OMB 5, Bit01, Roland Jupiter-8, John Bowen Solaris, Oberheim Matrix-12, Sequential Six-Trak, & Prophet-VS.

Stranger Things inspired synth epicness

video upload by Espen Kraft

"A little chord sequence and sounds inspired by the (combined) Stranger Things soundtrack.
There are many layers of synths packed into this one minute:

Sequential Prophet VS Strings
Arturia Prophet VS Filtered Strings
Arturia CS-80 arpeggio
Roland Juno-106 Bells
Roland JX-8P Pad
Kawai K3m Bass"

Pits Playground & Perfect Pads 2 - Soundsets for Waldorf Iridium & Quantum synthesizer.

video upload by WaldorfMusicChannel

"https://waldorfmusic.com/produkt/soun...

With loving attention to detail, Pit created 69 patches that showcase the extensive synthesis capabilities of the Iridium/Quantum family. The sound set combines analogue warmth with digital precision. Special emphasis was placed on the interaction between playing and sound generation: thanks to extensive modulation routings, an organic flow is created that makes playing inspiring and lively. Ideal for losing yourself completely in the sound.

The sound palette includes Moog-style leads and basses, assertive brass and poly synths, PPG and Prophet VS-style wavetable sounds, as well as digital pads and atmospheric textures. Pre-made sequences, arpeggios and overloaded effects have been deliberately omitted. Instead, you get dynamically playable instruments that enrich your musical expression.

A real playground for lovers of ‘real’ synthesizer sounds.

Pit is a real synthesizer freak. He discovered his love for synthesizers and electronic music back in the early 80s. His collection includes legendary synthesizers such as the EMC Rehberg VCS3, Oberheim OB8, Minimoog and Memorymoog, to name but a few. And of course an Iridium Keyboard."

Perfect Pads 2 - Soundset for Waldorf Iridium & Quantum synthesizer.

video upload by WaldorfMusicChannel

"https://waldorfmusic.com/produkt/soun...

The second edition of the Perfect Pads collection, this time with 34 brand new meticulously crafted pad patches for the wonderful Iridium & Quantum synthesizer.

This pack makes use of the various native sound engines of the Iridium/Quantum, which are blended with high-quality recordings of some of the fantastic analog pad synths like the OB-X8 and ISE-NIN.

The result is another highly usable pack of presets with some of the widest and warmest pads available on the Iridium & Quantum, immediately usable for many different music genres or a great starting point for further tweaking."

A path in the dark | Sequential Prophet VS and Rhodes Piano ambient soundscape

video upload by MIDERA

"Two years ago I was playing with my kids with a little yamaha piano, the christmas tree lit, we were looking forward to a relaxing and fun holiday... but that's when my mom called me and asked, "Did you mean what you said? Would you really be willing to come down to be with me?" She was so scared. I dropped everything and drove down (about 1.5 hr drive) to be with her. I'll never forget the look on her face - panic, fear, anguish... I don't know how to describe the look, but it was painful to see. I gave her a big hug as she cried. Looking back, I think she knew it was time, I think she knew her body was failing and was failing fast. I was determined to stay positive, but I watched her move. The exhaustion after only a few steps. I'm glad I didn't realize that it would be only 4 more days before I would lose her forever......."