Jump to content

What are your tricks to fight lack of space in your synth studio?


Mediterranean

Recommended Posts

  • Members

Diametro recently made an excellent point about a certain 61-key synth that has all the knobbage compressed in one block, with the entire right side empty. Although that may be a nuisance for those who do a lot of live knobbing, I would definitely turn that "flaw" into a convenience if I had such keyboard: mouse location.

 

Since the synth in my very small bedroom is entirely filled with buttons, I had to come up with my own solution [video attached]. The location of my PC keyboard is more problematic though. I had nowhere to put it but on top of a synth module [which makes it way high up], but being wireless helps a great deal since I can lay it on my lap when keyboarding.

 

What are your tricks to make up for lack of space in your studio? Did you make your own racks, tables, shelves, etc? Let's share ideas with one another. Pictures would also be great:)

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Members

My room is quite small right now (thanks, massive back-to-school debt!). I definitely consider space when considering gear. My current setup uses a Quik-lok 3-tier stand and this:

 

1_ikea_fredrik_workstation_instructions_

 

The middle shelf on this is adjustable. I have it high enough to hold my monitor while having space underneath to hold desktop units. The Elektrons sit on Logitech laptop stands and can slide under when not in use.

 

I also use one of the tall Middle Atlantic rack cases, which I've put a couple shelf units into along with a SKB rack drawer.

 

I'd take pics but my camera is FUBAR.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Members

I've only got the single room I live in. Livingroom synths + parents = nopes. And in case of a sale kitchen reek probably isn't favorable...

 

I've just ordered another keyboard. It's not that there's no space, but it's all in the middle of the room. Yay, lots of floor. But with the keyboard, my bookshelf becomes totally inaccessible. Seriously!

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Members

I must be having some sort of codec problem since reinstalling windows because that video's all weird colors and no detail. So I can't see how much stuff you have or what ammount of space you have to work with.

 

I have four boards, a rack, and a computer setup in about a 7x7ft square. The corner's a bit empty, it could be even less space if that was necessary. The main space-savers are the homemade keyboard stand (small footprint, sturdy, cost about $35) and the short table below the tall table. http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk115/Sparkytfl/keys09feb-001.jpg You can't see it, but my bed is directly to the right of the table.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Members

Note to anyone considering these: the top shelf is definitely where old synths go to die. I keep manuals and books and stuff up there. Well, to be really honest, my monitors are also up there right now. That will end when my new smaller KRK's arrive, since they'll fit nicely on the middle shelf, finally at head height after years of wandering in the desert!

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Members

I've managed to fit whole lot of functionality into a space that would make a Tokyo apartment tenant proud:

 

P0002284.JPG

 

Half the stuff in the above pic has been sold for other gear. It's still in the same "footprint". I'll post a new picture when the metamorphosis is complete. Going to be awhile though. I've got to finish scrounging up cash for one of these. They're also built to order, so....probably not until spring has sprung. :cry:

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Members

lol MetroSonus.


I love what I see. LOVE wood! Custom-made table or bought?


You're also using a laptop. No need for a PC keyboard. Lucky!
:thu:

 

Using the controller i don't even have to touch the laptop. if you use an effective controller setup, you really shouldn't have to except maybe to browse samples or some other menial tasks. you should shoot for having your controller do all the functions you use all the time, if it can't, find one that can. having the sliding controller shelf is essential for me, i've had it on all my desks and it really helps smooth out the transition from studio to home office when i need it to.

 

 

the desk is actually an office L shaped desk in "metropolitan cherry" or whatever chic name the use. for years, i had done the bedroom / studio / living room thing all through college and even here for a bit. after i got the room cleared out i really wanted a dedicated studio room with a big desk that wouldn't make me feel like i keep wanting to rearrange everything all the time.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Members

stack it and rack it.

 

but not 3 tier stands, which are just wrong, and usually involve people putting something really heavy on the top tier so it looks like it could fall over and kill them at any minute.

 

those under desk rack units are really tight. i may have to build one when i finish decorating.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Members

I've got to finish scrounging up cash for one of
these
. They're also built to order, so....probably not until spring has sprung.
:cry:

 

so you are getting the AXiS, awesome! I know you will enjoy it... I just saw one on eBay, but it was priced higher than just ordering one from c-thru :confused:

 

cheers

ripe

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Members

I prefer the 3-tier stands, and lots of them. They aren't expensive, and if you plan it right the boards get smaller as they go up - perfectly safe. Vertical is the way to go in a small space which is what I have. The multiple 3-tiers let a friend and I jam in a small space without skimping on the gear.

 

I don't mind standing to play since that is what you do in a live show anyway. For times that I want to sit I use a comfortable adjustable stool, much like the ones you use for amateur astronomy.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Archived

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

×
×
  • Create New...