[Drum Machines]

I know what you mean about the EMX and the PCM sample, they could use a tad more. But don't over look the Synths for drum sounds as well, you can get some mean kicks/snare and other stuff using just the envelope and pitch modulation.

 

I wish it had more individual outs though, 4 is enough for just the basic drum, and not much percussion.

 

You should check out reddit's synthesizer sub, they've had some good discussions on drum machines. But man I wouldn't mind having a Rytm, it is a very nice machine. But since I'm not exactly made of money, I have an Korg EMX. While I wish it had more options for the drums, hats, etc; I find it to be really nice machine, plus it's nice to have 5 additional synths to depend on.

[Lack of creativity?]

I think you're having problems with flow/development. I always get stuck making loops as well. But its realizing when you have a good idea and how to take it further.

 

I would suggest looking into Texture and Structure. Start hearing them in the music you listen to, and how you would change them to make the song better. More of a mental exercise .

[Studio Dream]

Well I'm still building mine (still beginning to understand concepts). But so far, here's what's on my list (hardware only):

 

Sequencer:

Elektron Octatrack or Apple Logic X (can't decide between H/W or Software). Time will tell.

 

Monitoring

Adam A7X Monitors,

Mackie 1604VLZ4 mixer (not enough channels...)

Apollo Quad (Not sure about this one yet, may switch to Motu 16A+Duo/Quad Satellite).

 

Synths:

Virus TI2 Rack (in a Virus TI1 body).

Nord Lead 4R

Roland Integra 7

Elektron Analog Keys

Roland V-Synth Ver2

Waldorf Blofeld (Broken Knob, in for warranty repair)

Arturia Minibrute

Korm EMX1 (this thing is awesome!)

Speak and Spell (still waiting to be Circuit Broken)

Volcas (these are OK, may get rid of them, would like a proper TB clone)

 

Effects:

Eventide Orville

Kurzweil KSP8

Ensoniq DP4

[tutorials that actually teach you something?]

Something that has really opened my eyes.

 

Start with the basics again but apply them as you learn (i.e make a song). For example, through my journey, I've figured out that music of all forms has some common elements, now I am going through the basics and trying to apply them, rather then watching the tutorials.

 

For me the elements of Music are:

1. Rhythm

2. Pitch

3. Harmony

4. Timbe

5. Texture

6. Structure

7. Mix

 

Now any tutorial I find (or search out) directly involves one of these categories and I can quickly delve in and apply it to my music.

 

Hope this makes sense.