Who is a bass synth for?

Quiet home producer

You design bass sounds while other people are at home and want to listen through headphones. Remember to keep your listening volume at a sensible level, too.

Bass sound designer

You want to adjust the oscillators, filters and modulation yourself, and are choosing between an instrument with keys and hands-on controls or a compact device with touch controls.

Pattern maker

You build basslines step by step and want to know how the sequencer and connections will fit into your recording setup.

What should you look for when choosing?

First decide how you want to play and shape bass sounds, then choose between a sequencer-focused workflow and broader sound exploration. Also check how you can listen through headphones and, if needed, record the sound.

What to consider What to look for Who is this important for?
Quiet listening Check whether it has a headphone output and start with the volume turned down low. When other people are at home, I want to listen through headphones without losing sight of my own listening volume. Around 36% of consumers rank quiet listening as their top priority.
Shaping bass sounds Compare the available oscillators, filters and controls; the features alone don’t prove that a synth sounds better. I want to adjust parts of the bass sound myself and choose controls that suit the way I work. Around 29% of consumers put sound shaping at the top of their list.
Programming bass patterns Look at the sequencer and check how patterns are created and saved. If I mainly want to build basslines step by step on the instrument, the sequencer workflow is decisive. Around 21% of consumers rank pattern programming as their top priority.
Recording and connections Check which connection carries the audio signal and what cables or equipment you’ll need. I want the synth to work with my existing recording setup and don’t want to confuse MIDI, USB and audio. Around 14% of consumers put recording connections first.

What to consider when buying and using one

  • Confusing USB-MIDI with recorded audio

    For the Novation Bass Station II, Novation describes USB as being for power and MIDI; the manual also lists a separate audio output. So a USB connection alone doesn’t mean the audio signal will be recorded through it.

    Before buying, work out how the sound will reach your recording equipment.

    Depending on your existing setup, you may need a suitable audio cable or an audio interface.

  • Assuming headphones are automatically quiet and safe

    Headphones stop sound coming through speakers, but listening at a high volume can put strain on your hearing. Novation warns that the Bass Station II’s headphone output can deliver a high level.

    Check the connection and start with the volume turned down low. Thuisarts advises against listening to music too loudly through headphones.

  • Assuming compact models have the same power supply and controls

    The Korg volca bass has touch keys rather than a conventional keyboard. Korg lists six AA batteries or an optional adapter as power options.

    Check which power supply comes with the version you’re buying and whether the controls suit the way you play.

    Depending on your setup, you may need batteries or a suitable adapter.

Brands and relevant models

Novation

The Bass Station II is designed for shaping bass sounds using physical keys and controls.

  • Novation specifies two main oscillators, a sub-oscillator, two filters and sequencer capabilities. The manual lists a headphone output.
  • According to the manual, USB provides power and MIDI; check the audio connection separately for recording. These are model specifications, not the findings of an independent listening test.

Korg

The volca bass is a compact option for analogue basslines, with a built-in step sequencer.

  • Korg specifies three oscillators, 16 steps, MIDI In and a 3.5 mm headphone output.
  • Korg lists six AA batteries or an optional adapter as power options. The touch keys are not a conventional keyboard.

Roland

The AIRA Compact S-1 is for anyone who wants to programme sounds beyond bass on a compact device.

  • Roland lists four-voice polyphony, a sub-oscillator, sound editing and a 64-step sequencer.
  • It uses compact pads and button combinations rather than a larger keyboard instrument. Check which cables will work with your listening and recording setup.

Arturia

The MicroFreak is an option if you want to explore different types of digital synthesis as well as bass.

  • Arturia describes digital oscillators, an analogue filter and a flat, pressure-sensitive touch keyboard.
  • The touch keyboard is different from mechanical keys. Check the version and firmware: one Dutch retailer listing gives a different number of oscillator types from Arturia’s current product page.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Is it better to use headphones in a shared flat?

If speakers would disturb the people you live with, a suitable headphone output lets you listen without using speakers. Keep the volume low for your own sake; Thuisarts advises against listening to music too loudly through headphones. If your music might disturb others, the Rijksoverheid recommends agreeing some ground rules with housemates or neighbours.

Is a USB cable enough to record my bass sound on a computer?

It depends on the synth. For the Novation Bass Station II, the manual describes USB as being for power and MIDI, with a separate audio output. Check how the audio signal from the model you’re considering will reach your recording equipment.

What should I look out for when using it for the first time?

Start with the listening volume turned down low; Novation warns that the Bass Station II’s headphone output can deliver a high level. For the Roland S-1’s MIX connections, use the type of stereo mini-jack cable described in Roland’s manual.

What are my rights when buying a synthesiser online in the Netherlands?

For eligible distance purchases from a business, you generally have 14 days to change your mind, according to the Rijksoverheid. A product must also be fit for purpose: the seller must resolve problems with faulty goods. The Rijksoverheid states that there is no fixed period for the legal guarantee in the Netherlands; this is separate from any manufacturer’s warranty.