If you want to record sound directly via USB, the Roland AIRA Compact S-1 is a suitable option: Roland specifies USB audio and MIDI. The Korg volca fm2 and Arturia MicroFreak have a separate audio output for their sound, so make sure you have the right cable and an audio input on your recording setup. Then choose the model whose arpeggiator, sound and controls best suit the way you play.
You want to create arpeggios on a small work surface and record them directly into your computer setup. Check the audio connection on the specific model, not just whether it has a USB port. Roland specifies audio and MIDI over USB for the S-1.
You want to create arpeggios and short patterns on the instrument itself. In that case, the arpeggiator, sequencer and controls may matter more than a traditional keyboard; the Roland, Korg and Arturia models each use different control layouts.
You want a variety of electronic sounds and expressive controls, and you’re prepared to use a separate audio connection when recording. Arturia describes the MicroFreak as having a capacitive keyboard and a separate master audio output.
Start by checking how the synthesiser’s sound will reach your recording setup, then consider how much space you have and which controls you need.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Arpeggios and patterns | Compare the arpeggiator, sequencer and input method with the way you want to create patterns. | I want to create arpeggios and short patterns on the instrument itself, so the controls need to suit the way I work. Around 29% of consumers prioritise creating patterns. |
| Recording audio | Check the audio output, the cable you’ll need and the input on your recording setup; distinguish between USB audio and USB MIDI. | If I want to record the synthesiser’s sound, I want to know in advance how the signal will reach my computer or recording equipment. Around 29% of consumers prioritise the recording connection. |
| Desk space | Measure the available width and depth, leaving room for cables and your hands. | On a small desk, I want enough room left to play and connect the instrument. The space required is the deciding factor for around 24% of consumers. |
| Sound and playing feel | Compare the sound options and control layout of the specific model; pads and capacitive keys feel different to a conventional keyboard. | Once recording and available space are sorted, I mainly want to know whether the sound and playing style suit what I’m looking for. Around 18% of consumers prioritise sound and playing feel. |
USB MIDI and USB audio are different functions. Roland specifies both over USB for the S-1; the Korg volca fm2 and Arturia MicroFreak are described as having a separate audio output.
Before buying, check how the sound and, if needed, MIDI will reach your recording setup. Roland warns that a charge-only cable is not suitable for data transfer with the S-1.
A separate audio connection may require a suitable audio cable and an available audio input.
The stated measurements don’t tell you how much room you’ll need for cables, your hands and playing pads or touch keys.
Measure your work surface with the cables connected, and consider whether the input method suits the way you play.
The Korg volca fm2 uses 3.5mm MIDI connectors; Korg states that a Type-A MIDI adapter is required.
Check the connections at both ends of your MIDI setup before choosing a cable or adapter.
Remember to allow for the Type-A MIDI adapter needed to connect the volca fm2 to MIDI equipment.
The AIRA Compact S-1 is worth considering if you’re looking for a small synthesiser with arpeggios and USB audio/MIDI. These features apply to this model and shouldn’t be assumed to apply to other Roland synthesisers.
The volca fm2 offers a compact way to explore FM sounds and arpeggios; the features below apply to this model.
The MicroFreak is a good fit if you want to combine arpeggios with touch keys and a variety of digital sounds. This description applies to the MicroFreak, not other models or versions.
No. Check whether the specific model supports USB audio, rather than just USB MIDI. Roland specifies audio and MIDI over USB for the S-1; the MicroFreak and volca fm2 are described as having a separate audio output. Use a data cable for data transfer with the S-1.
Check which audio input your recording setup has and which output the exact instrument offers. The Korg volca fm2 has a 3.5mm stereo output and the Arturia MicroFreak has a 6,35mm master audio output. For the S-1, Roland recommends a data cable and a direct connection without a USB hub.
According to Arturia, you can save two sequences per preset. Arturia also describes transferring presets via MIDI Control Center and warns that restoring a project can overwrite existing content, so back up your project first.
No. According to ACM ConsuWijzer, the legal guarantee depends on what you could reasonably expect from the product. If a product breaks down too soon under normal use, the seller must resolve the issue in line with these rules. A manufacturer’s guarantee does not replace your legal rights.
For a standard online purchase by a consumer, a statutory cooling-off period generally applies. ACM ConsuWijzer states that it ends 14 days after the product has been delivered. There are exceptions, so check which rules apply to your purchase.
