Beginner here, torn between the OpenTheremin 4.5, LostVolts V4 and Burns.

I'm in the process of choosing my first Theremin and the much recommended, much beloved Etherwave is not in my budget right now, (Also really hard to find online with international shipping. I'm in SE Asia). I want something that is decent enough to learn proper techniques on that would translate well when changing to a better instrument (As opposed to a bad gear that I have to unlearn everything upon an upgrade). And when it comes to budget Theremins, the Burns, the OpenTheremin, and the LostVolts seem to be the most visible of the bunch. For the people who've played them, how do they compare to each other and what would you recommend?

"And when it comes to budget Theremins, the Burns, the OpenTheremin, and the LostVolts seem to be the most visible of the bunch. For the people who've played them, how do they compare to each other and what would you recommend?"  - RollingApple

I haven't played any of them, but if it were me I'd go with the OpenTheremin.  Just about every player owns one.

Hi @RollingApple,

I won't advise for a specific model because I am probably too much enthusiastic about some specific ones.

Just my reaction to "As opposed to a bad gear that I have to unlearn everything upon an upgrade"
If you are starting your adventure with the theremin just be prepared to have to learn and unlearn everyday !

That said welcome to this great familly.

I'm in the process of choosing my first Theremin  

I have had the Burns but would not really recommend it. I never played the open theremin but I do have the Lost Volts and am very impressed by it for the price. It has a decent sound and the volume is more dynamic than the Etherwave. I would have no problem giving a performance with it in a pinch.  Check out Priantz playing Moon River.

 

Hi bisem, I've seen several of your comments, and earlier you were severe with LV theremins. Is that because it was before the LV-4? Seeing the video makes me more confident in buying one. I went from considering, in the following order: B3 → B3 Deluxe → LV-4 → Open 4.5 → RDS (the brazilian one) → PV-1 (Theremaniacs) → and again LV-4.

My last impression was that the PV-1 felt like being real and richer analog sound, maybe almost more grainy, but with a wider octave range with the basses. I like that the LV-4 can modify envelope and brightness, but then again some pedal effects can be added later on.

Availability and pricing is also an issue, being in Canada. LV-4 sits in the less expansive range and the PV-1 feels kinda expensive going up to 530 $ CAD with shipping. I have excluded the EW, even second market, and of course the Theremini.

Any other food for tough from anyone is very welcome.

Thanks.

Sylvain