If you want to use as little stage space as possible, a synth with pads could be a good fit. If you want to play the lead on keys, choose a keyboard that suits your playing style. Also compare the voice modes and check that the audio output, power supply and any MIDI connection will work with your live setup.
You want to add a lead without setting up another wide keyboard, and may be happy to use pads or external control. Roland describes the S-1 as having 26 multifunctional pads; Arturia describes the MicroFreak as having a capacitive keyboard.
You play the lead yourself and value key feel and hands-on sound control more than the smallest possible footprint. Korg specifies slim keys on the monologue, while Novation lists full-size keys with aftertouch on the Bass Station II.
You want to connect the synth to a mixer, monitoring system and any MIDI equipment. Novation describes the Bass Station II's LINE Output as an audio connection to a mixer or active speaker, for example.
A good fit if: you want a very compact setup and play the lead on pads or using suitable external control. Roland lists 26 multifunctional pads and mono, poly, unison and chord modes.
Trade-off: pads feel different from a conventional keyboard, so try them out with the part you intend to play.
A good fit if: space is limited, you want to play notes directly and you’re comfortable with a flat touch keyboard. Arturia describes monophonic and paraphonic modes, with up to four notes in paraphonic mode.
Trade-off: the capacitive keyboard feels different from moving keys, and paraphony doesn’t automatically mean four independent synthesiser voices.
A good fit if: you play one note at a time and want a built-in keyboard with hands-on controls. Korg specifies 25 velocity-sensitive slim keys and dimensions of 350 × 276 × 76 mm.
Trade-off: the monologue is monophonic, and Korg lists the 9V adapter as optional.
A good fit if: the playing feel of your lead part comes first. Novation specifies 25 full-size keys with aftertouch.
Trade-off: allow space for the instrument and connect the line output to suitable audio equipment to hear the sound through the venue’s sound system.
A good fit if: 37 mini keys and room to play several notes matter more than a short instrument. Yamaha specifies up to eight voices.
Trade-off: measure the available width: Yamaha lists a width of 530 mm and a depth of 175 mm.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Space and controls | Measure the available width and depth, including room for connection cables. Compare pads, touch controls and keys. | If stage space is tight, I want to know whether the synth will fit without limiting the way I play. Around 31% of consumers give available space and controls top priority. |
| Key feel | Try playing the part you have in mind on pads, capacitive keys, slim keys or full-size keys. | When I play the lead myself, I want controls that suit my touch and phrasing. Around 25% of consumers prioritise key feel when playing. |
| Lead sound and voice modes | Work out whether you play single notes, overlapping notes or chords. Check the specified mono, paraphonic or polyphonic modes. | If my part calls for several notes at once, I want to know which voice mode the model offers. Around 25% of consumers choose mainly on the basis of lead sound and voice modes. |
| Connections and power | Check the audio output for your mixer or active speaker, the MIDI connection you need, and which power supply or accessories are required. | For an existing live setup, I want to know in advance how audio and power are handled. Around 19% of consumers give connections and power top priority. |
The models considered here use a range of controls: pads, capacitive keys, slim keys or full-size keys. A compact design alone doesn’t tell you whether the controls will suit your playing style.
Try playing your own part using the controls you’re considering before making size your only deciding factor.
Arturia describes the MicroFreak as having a paraphonic mode for up to four notes. This is a specific playing mode, not a general promise of four fully independent synthesiser voices.
Work out whether your part includes single notes, overlapping notes or chords, then check the voice mode of the exact model.
Audio output, MIDI and USB can serve different purposes. The power supply you need can also affect where you place your equipment.
Plan your full stage setup and check the connections, cable clearance and power source required for your chosen model.
The S-1 is an AIRA Compact option for a lead, with built-in performance and sequencer pads.
The MicroFreak is a compact alternative with a flat capacitive keyboard and a range of digital oscillator modes.
The monologue combines a monophonic analogue synth with 25 built-in slim keys and hands-on panel controls.
The Bass Station II is worth considering if you’re looking for a lead synth with full-size keys and aftertouch.
The reface CS has 37 mini keys in a shallow-profile design.
It depends on the venue’s setup. Novation describes the Bass Station II’s LINE Output as connecting to an audio mixer or active speaker, for example. Check which audio connection suits your chosen model and venue.
Not necessarily. Novation describes USB as providing power and MIDI transfer on the Bass Station II, and lists the LINE Output separately as the audio signal connection.
Use the power supply specified for the exact model. Korg lists six AA batteries or an optional 9V adapter for the monologue; Arturia lists USB power and a supplied 12V power supply for the MicroFreak. These details don’t automatically apply to other models.
No. According to the Dutch government, there is no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands. What you can expect from a product depends on factors including the product itself and the information provided. If a product is faulty, contact the seller; any manufacturer’s guarantee is in addition to this.
According to Business.gov.nl, electrical and electronic equipment sold in the Netherlands must comply with the relevant European safety rules. This general requirement does not confirm the conformity status of any individual product offered for sale.
