This video, via Alamo Music, offers an overview and demo of the classic Sequential Prophet VS synthesizer.
The Sequential Prophet VS introduced Vector Synthesis, which lets you create complex sounds based on four oscillators.
Video Summary:
“In this video, we dive into the iconic Prophet VS, Sequential’s first and final digital synth. Featuring revolutionary Vector Synthesis, it boasts four oscillators per voice and 127 waveforms (including 32 user-defined) with dynamic crossfading via the joystick. Discover why this unique vintage synth remains a favorite among collectors and sound designers.”
Check out the video and share your thoughts on the Sequential Prophet VS in the comments!
Some of the most rad VS tones can be heard on Nine Inch Nails’ first record, Pretty Hate Machine. It’s all over that record.
I have warm feels for Sequential. The keyboard’s pressure sensor had unfortunate issues (hooray for the rack version), but I believe it was the first commercial vector synth. It also put wavetables up front with a post-PPG crowd. Now, those things are generally standards. The Yamaha SY22 was a poor man’s version, although it had some nice strengths of its own. The VS is a serious hall-of-fame resident.
I really hope we get a faithful reissue from Sequential one day
Prophet VS sound like a million bucks. Shimmering and warm, or metallic and cold. Have yet to hear a synth that matches its character. Pity about the power supplies though, pretty buzzy.
I wish the host had talked a bit about two small things that made the VS super cool: the looping envelopes and the random patch generator. That last one should be standard on every polysynth.