If you want different sounds to play at the same time as separate layers, focus on multitimbrality and how you control the parts; the Roland SH-4d has four synth parts. For a single, complex, evolving pad, a desktop module with multiple oscillators and effects may be enough, but polyphony alone doesn’t mean you can play different sounds at the same time. Also compare the voice count, dimensions and controls you already have.
You want different sounds to play at the same time. Look for separate synth parts, and distinguish between separate parts and multiple oscillators within a single sound. Roland lists four synth parts for the SH-4d; Novation Support explains the difference between polyphony and playing different sounds.
You’re looking for a desktop instrument and need to weigh its dimensions against the space required for controls and any extra equipment. Roland lists the dimensions of the SH-4d; ASM describes the built-in performance pads on the Hydrasynth Desktop.
You don’t need separate sound parts, but want to build a pad using oscillators, modulation and effects. ASM, Korg and Novation’s product specifications describe a range of desktop options for this.
A good fit if: you want to build or sequence different sounds as separate parts; Roland lists four synth parts for the SH-4d.
Trade-off: Roland says the stated maximum polyphony of 60 voices varies with the load on the sound generator; also check how you control the parts.
A good fit if: layers within a single patch are enough and you don’t need separate sounds to play at the same time.
Trade-off: according to ASM, the Hydrasynth Desktop doesn’t support split/stack; polyphonic voices are therefore not the same as independent sound parts.
A good fit if: you want to create a single pad with analogue oscillators, a digital multi-engine and built-in effects.
Trade-off: the Korg minilogue xd module has four voices and no keyboard; Korg lists a keyboard or DAW as control options.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Separate sound layers | Check whether the instrument supports separate parts and how you can play or sequence them at the same time. | If I want different pads to sound at the same time, I want to know whether they’re separate sounds, rather than just oscillators within one patch. Around 33% of consumers consider separate sound layers their main priority. |
| Space for your setup | Measure the instrument and the space needed for controls and connections; allow for a controller if required. | With limited desk space, I want to know in advance how much room the instrument and controls will take up together. Around 27% of consumers prioritise the space needed for their complete setup. |
| Voices and release time | Compare the voice count and try the chords you want to play with long release times; if you’re using multiple parts, also check how voices are allocated. | If I let chords ring out for a long time, I want to know how many notes will remain available for new key presses. Around 20% of consumers prioritise voice capacity. |
| Controls and sound design | Check which controls are built in and whether you’ll need a keyboard, DAW or another controller. | If I want to play straight away and shape my pad on the instrument, it matters whether the controls suit the way I work. Around 20% of consumers make controls and sound design their main consideration. |
Polyphony describes how many notes can sound at the same time; a polyphonic synthesiser may still only play one sound at a time. So an instrument may not do what you expect if you want to combine independent pads.
As well as checking the voice count, check whether the model supports multiple parts or multitimbrality.
A module without a keyboard may need an existing controller or DAW setup, while another desktop model may have its own performance pads.
Before you choose, plan out the complete setup, including controls and space for connections.
Roland says the SH-4d’s maximum polyphony varies with the load on the sound generator. So the maximum figure alone doesn’t tell you how many voices will be available for every pad configuration you want to use.
Try the chords, multiple parts and long release times you intend to use in your chosen configuration.
The SH-4d is worth considering if you’re looking for multiple synth parts in a desktop setup.
The Hydrasynth Desktop is suited to designing and playing a single complex sound without a separate keyboard.
The minilogue xd module combines analogue and digital sound design in a single desktop instrument.
The Peak is a desktop option for extensive sound design with a single polyphonic patch.
No. Polyphony is about notes sounding at the same time; to play different sounds simultaneously, you also need to check whether the instrument supports multiple sound parts. Multiple oscillators can, however, work together to create a single layered pad.
Not always: the Hydrasynth Desktop has its own performance pads. For the minilogue xd module, Korg lists a keyboard or DAW as possible control options. Before buying, decide how you want to input notes and factor the controls into your space planning.
Measure the space for the instrument and its connections, and allow for a controller if needed. Roland lists the SH-4d’s dimensions as 360 × 195 × 66 mm; check the dimensions of other models separately.
The Dutch Government states that electronic devices placed on the EU market must meet the applicable safety requirements and carry a CE marking. Check the marking and product information for the version you’re buying, especially if it’s imported from outside the EU.
According to the Dutch Government, the retailer is your point of contact in the Netherlands if a product is faulty. There’s no fixed statutory guarantee period; what you can expect from a product depends partly on the product itself and how it’s used. Any additional manufacturer’s or retailer’s warranty doesn’t replace your statutory rights.
