Well, here's another midi/analog monosynth in the 303 imitator posse. Advertised as the only authentic TB 303 clone (er, don't they all ?!).... it's fairly close, at least it's more squelchy than the Deep Bass 9 (check the review), but of course, nothing sounds like a real TB.... But.... It does a 303 type sound as do all the others.
The main difference with this module, is that the waveform is variable between Sawtooth & Square wave, so if the Select Wave control is at 12 O'clock then you get a mix, which sounds quite interesting.
Like the Deep Bass 9, this Freebass unit has an external input, so you can process external signals.
All the controls of the original 303 are duplicated: Cutoff, Resonance, Envelope Mod'., Accent (accent is switched in for midi notes with velocity over 100), Tune & decay... also, like the DB9, this unit DOESN'T have a potamento switch on the unit (groan !) so it's midi control number 64 if you want to add "Slide" to the sound. NONE of the controls are controllable via midi, and this unit outputs NO controller data via midi either.... I just had to double check that... originally the Distributor told me it did recieve data, but apparently not.
Well, there's not alot more to say.... This unit again doesn't really get the 303 sound...but it comes pretty close.... closer than the DB9, especially for the top end stuff.... in a mix it is very convincing, especially when you remember the price you paid
I would say that it sounds better for the Square wave stuff, (it sounds pretty hollow)......but again...no way it cuts through you like a 303.... Also the Freebass has the variable waveform selector, so it's more versatile soundwise than the DB9.... Best check it for yourself. See, these units are set in the factory to an optimum setting for the filter & resonance master settings... So you can usually get inside them, and get tweaking with a screwdriver to tune into just the filter range you want.
All in all an excellent value for money unit given the further reduced, measley price of £129 inc. vat... They should be an even better bargain if you can find one second-hand.
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