Best Synthesizer

Rush's Live Album "A Show of Hands"

Different Stages is considered their best live album.
Geddy Lee's voice and bass playing excel during this era.
Known for tight performances and special live energy.
Favorite songs include Marathon and Closer to the Heart.
Great for framing their synth-heavy material.
Some fans wish it included more songs from Signals.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Tight and energetic performances.
Geddy Lee's impressive vocals and bass playing.
Considered the best live Rush album.
Great for experiencing the synth era.
Well-loved favorite live album by many fans.

Cons

Limited songs from Signals included.
DVD vs. CD versions may have discrepancies.
Some fans prefer Different Stages for live recordings.

Other Mentioned Synths

Boards of Canada: Highly recommended for synth music.
Depeche Mode - A Broken Frame, New Order - Power, Corruption, and Lies, Ministry - With Sympathy: Recommended albums for synth enthusiasts.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Albums with unique and distinct synth sounds.
Highly praised by fans of electronic music.

Cons

Individual preferences may vary for synth albums.

Mentioned Products in the Synth ES-zone

Venetian Snares - Traditional Synthesizer Music, Harold Grosskopf - Synthesist: Recommended synth albums.
Korg X3, Rhodes keyboard: Synth products found at significant discounts.
Jun-6, MS-20, Moog Model D, Roland System 100: Synths with aesthetically pleasing designs highlighted.
UDO Super 6, Korg Trident, Haken Continuum: Synths recommended for their looks and features.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Highlighted for unique features and designs.
Products found at great deals or with appealing characteristics.

Cons

Individual preferences for synth gear may vary.

Tips for Buying a Synth as a Gift

Consider a Sweetwater gift card for the recipient's preferred synth.
Arturia Microfreak, Yamaha Reface CS or DX: Recommended synths for beginners within a specific price range.
Take the recipient shopping for a synth to ensure they get what they truly want.
Novation Circuit Tracks: A good choice for hardware music production in the specified budget.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Ensures the recipient gets exactly what they want.
Allows for an enjoyable experience selecting the right synth.
Provides flexibility in choice for the recipient.

Cons

Potential risk of buying the wrong synth for the recipient's needs.

This comprehensive summary covers a range of Reddit comments on Rush's live album "A Show of Hands," favorite synth albums, and gift recommendations related to synthesizers, providing insights, pros, and cons for each product or recommendation mentioned.