Choosing between the Prophet 6 and the Prophet Rev2 can be challenging for synthesizer enthusiasts and professional musicians alike. Both are legendary instruments from Dave Smith Instruments, offering rich analog sounds with modern features. This listicle breaks down their key differences, strengths, and weaknesses to help you determine which synth best suits your needs, whether you’re a studio producer, live performer, or hobbyist exploring high-quality analog synthesis.
Sound Quality and Oscillators
The Prophet 6 features six discrete VCOs per voice, delivering a warm, punchy sound characteristic of classic analog synths from the 1980s. Its oscillators produce pure sine, saw, and pulse waves with high stability and minimal drift, making it ideal for lush pads and aggressive leads. The Rev2, on the other hand, offers eight oscillators per voice, with a wider variety of waveforms including supersaw modes, making it more versatile for creating thick, layered sounds or complex textures.
Filter and Signal Path
Both synths are equipped with a high-quality multimode filter derived from the classic Prophet-5 design, but the Prophet 6 has a 24dB/oct ladder filter that emphasizes a vintage character with a slightly more aggressive resonance. The Rev2’s filter, while similar, offers additional modulation options and an external audio input, giving users more creative flexibility for filtering external sounds or complex sound design.
Polyphony and Voice Architecture
The Prophet 6 is a six-voice polyphonic synth, providing a classic, straightforward playing experience suited for chordal and melodic work. The Rev2 increases polyphony to eight voices, allowing for more complex layered sounds and richer textures, which is especially beneficial in live performance or intricate sound design projects.
Modulation Capabilities
While both synths feature extensive modulation options, the Rev2 offers a more advanced modulation matrix with additional sources and destinations, including multiple LFOs and envelopes. This makes the Rev2 more suitable for complex sound design and evolving textures. The Prophet 6’s modulation system is still powerful but more streamlined, favoring straightforward performance and sound shaping.
User Interface and Control Layout
The Prophet 6 maintains a classic, intuitive layout with dedicated knobs and switches for most parameters, making real-time control simple and immediate. The Rev2 introduces a larger display and more assignable controls, allowing for deeper editing and customization. Musicians who prefer tactile, hands-on control may favor the Prophet 6, while sound designers seeking extensive editing options might prefer the Rev2.
Build Quality and Portability
Both synths are built with solid metal chassis, but the Prophet 6 has a slightly more compact, lightweight design, making it easier to transport for gigs. The Rev2, being larger, offers more controls but may be less portable. Durability and portability are important considerations depending on your performance or studio setup.
Presets and Memory
The Prophet 6 comes with 200 onboard presets, crafted by professional sound designers, providing immediate access to a variety of classic and modern sounds. The Rev2 offers 512 patches, with a more extensive library for users who want a broader palette right out of the box. Both synths support user presets and external storage for custom sounds.
Connectivity and External Features
The Prophet 6 features MIDI In/Out and USB for integration with DAWs and controllers, along with assignable CV outputs for modular synth integration. The Rev2 adds more CV outputs, multiple audio inputs, and a more comprehensive MIDI implementation, making it a better choice for modular enthusiasts or those integrating with other hardware gear.
Pricing and Value
As of 2023, the Prophet 6 typically retails around $2,200, reflecting its vintage-inspired design and straightforward interface. The Rev2 is priced slightly higher, around $2,400, due to its expanded features and higher polyphony. Both are premium instruments with solid build quality, but your choice may depend on your budget and specific feature needs.
How to Choose
When selecting between the Prophet 6 and Rev2, consider your primary use case: If you prefer a straightforward, classic analog experience with immediate controls, the Prophet 6 is ideal. If you need more polyphony, modulation complexity, and flexible sound design options, the Rev2 offers significant advantages. Also, think about your workflow—whether you prefer tactile knobs or extensive editing via a larger display—and your budget constraints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use both synths live on stage?
Yes, both are portable and MIDI-compatible, making them suitable for live performance. The Prophet 6’s simplicity makes it quick to tweak during shows, while the Rev2’s extensive controls and presets allow for more complex live soundscapes.
Which synth has better vintage character?
The Prophet 6’s filter and VCO design closely emulate classic analog sounds from the 1980s, giving it a more vintage character. The Rev2, while capable of vintage sounds, leans more towards modern, layered textures.
Is the Rev2 more suitable for complex sound design?
Absolutely. Its expanded modulation options, more extensive patch memory, and additional oscillators make it more versatile for creating complex, evolving sounds.
Are the keyboard actions comparable?
Both feature semi-weighted, synth-style keys with aftertouch, but the Prophet 6’s keys are slightly lighter, favoring quick performance. The Rev2’s keys are more robust, suitable for expressive playing.
Which one offers better value for money?
It depends on your needs. The Prophet 6 offers excellent value for its simplicity and vintage tone, while the Rev2 provides more features for a slightly higher price, making it a better investment for advanced users.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the Prophet 6 and Rev2 ultimately depends on your musical goals and workflow preferences. The Prophet 6 excels in delivering classic, punchy analog sounds with an intuitive interface, perfect for musicians seeking immediate, high-quality vintage tones. The Rev2, with its expanded polyphony, modulation capabilities, and versatile sound design tools, caters to producers and sound designers who want to push the boundaries of analog synthesis. Both are exceptional instruments, so consider your specific needs, whether performance, sound design, or studio work, to make the best choice.
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