AudioPilz and the Geriatric Synth Rumble

Welcome to another eccentric episode of “Bad Gear,” where AudioPilz invites us into the world of often-maligned audio gadgets. Today, Florian Pilz, the mastermind behind the channel, sets his sights on the futuristic Waldorf Iridium range. He paints a vivid picture of middle-aged synth collectors, eagerly adding this shiny German creation to their arsenals, hoping it will launch them into electronic music stardom. Yet, for the young bloods, it seems they’re more intrigued by torrents of Serum 2. The stage is set for a classic head-to-head: old school hardware versus cutting-edge software.

Dashing through the Iridium’s interface, Florian discusses the joys and tribulations that come with this sophisticated machine. The touchscreens that serve as the interface for the synth sometimes test his patience, which he expresses with equal parts charm and comedic frustration. Complementing the tactile chaos are some non-velocity sensitive rubber buttons, a feature that doesn’t escape his tongue-in-cheek critique. The mod matrix, however, offers a complex playground for modulation enthusiasts. Here, Audiopilz lays into the wonkiness of the system while still managing to convey the raw potential it harbours for sound manipulation. It’s a relationship of love and exasperation found in many synth enthusiasts’ lives.

In his classic irreverent style, AudioPilz wraps up the review with a verdict that’s equal parts admiration and criticism. He acknowledges the Iridium for not fitting into a simple box, revealing a synth more powerful than many of its peers. Yet, this power comes with a learning curve and a price that may deter those new to synths. In his signature bluntness, Florian dubs it as “the answer to the old ‘what’s the best synth for psytrance’ meme.” As AudioPilz returns his borrowed Iridium and gives a heartfelt shoutout to his patrons, it’s clear that despite its ups and downs, the Iridium still holds a special place in his eclectic synth journey.