When Gear Used to Define Success

Back in the golden age of hardware synthesizers, owning the right gear could make or break a producer’s career.
Peter Gorges, one of Europe’s leading synthesizer experts and the creative mind behind Wizoo and UJAM, remembers that time well.

“Even in the small German town I grew up in, I wasn’t recognized for my talent — the popular guy had the talent of a bread loaf, but he owned a Farfisa and a Minimoog.”

A couple of decades ago, having access to top-tier synths and studio gear truly determined your chances of success. Those who could afford it had a massive head start.

 

How Software Changed Everything

Today, that world is gone. Technology has democratized music production — powerful, affordable, and even free software gives everyone access to professional-quality sound.

“Hans Zimmer openly says he produces 90% of his tracks with one software synthesizer (u-he Zebra), and everyone knows that Finneas produced Billie Eilish’s biggest hits using only Logic Pro stock plug-ins.”

Peter believes this is where the phrase “democratizing music” finally becomes real:

“Even with free software, you can be just as successful as someone working in a 100-grand studio. Gear isn’t the gatekeeper anymore.”

 

From Hardware to Software — A Personal Journey

As someone who once lived and breathed hardware synths, Gorges isn’t dismissing their beauty or inspiration.
But over twenty years ago, he sold almost all of his hardware — and hasn’t looked back since.

“Personally, I prefer total recall and convenience over haptics — but that’s just me. I haven’t had a single moment where I thought, ‘God, I regret having sold X or Y.’”

For Peter, the creativity and speed of modern digital tools far outweigh the nostalgia of vintage gear.
Today’s software instruments, from soft synths to effect plug-ins, offer professional sound and limitless flexibility at a fraction of the cost.

 

Making Professional Tools Accessible for Everyone

That belief inspired the creation of UJAM, Peter’s company dedicated to making professional music tools that are accessible, affordable, and inspiring for everyone — not just those with expensive studios.

UJAM’s mission: make producing music fast, fun, and frustration-free.

“Great hardware and expensive software still have amazing qualities — but don’t let anyone tell you you can’t reach for the stars just because you don’t have those.”

 

Put It to the Test — Can You Hear the Difference?

To prove that talent matters more than tools, the UJAM team launched a bold campaign:

Producers are invited to take the Usynth STRANGER Hardware vs Software Quiz, a fun audio challenge comparing Usynth STRANGER with a real hardware synthesizer.
👉 Take the quiz here

 

Join the Spooky Synthwave Contest

UJAM is challenging producers to a “Spooky Synthwave Challenge” to show that software can sound every bit as powerful as analog hardware.

🎵 Show us your talent!
Create a track using Usynth STRANGER and Finisher RETRO for a chance to:

  • Win prizes from UJAM,Baby Audio, and Rhodes
     
  • Be featured on UJAM’s Livestream and get feedback from Derek Von Krogh
     
  • Prove that software synths can rival the real thing
     

👉 Join the contest here: https://discord.com/invite/HzFhYhJZjF

 

Final Takeaway: Talent Over Tools

Peter Gorges’ message is simple and timeless:

“If you bring the talent, today’s software can make you sound every bit as good as the real thing.”

So before you chase another expensive synth, open your DAW — and show the world what you can do with the tools you already have.

 

 

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