Student recording a hardware synth
Wants to record their own synthesiser’s sound as audio, so checks the instrument’s outputs and the inputs available in the music room. Korg and Arturia list audio outputs for the models mentioned here.
Which setup is right for you?
Student editing notes later
Wants to record arpeggios as MIDI in a DAW, then choose or adjust a software sound afterwards. Novation explains that the Launchkey sends MIDI but doesn’t produce sound itself.
Student working in different spaces
Carries equipment between shared spaces and wants a compact setup that’s quick to connect. The Roland S-1 uses pads, while the Arturia MicroFreak has an unusual flat keyboard surface.
What should you look for?
First decide whether you want to record audio from a standalone synthesiser or edit MIDI notes. If you’re recording arpeggios in a shared music room, connections, controls and your preferred way of playing also matter.
| What to consider | What to check before buying | Who should pay particular attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Recording the instrument’s sound as audio | Compare the exact model’s audio outputs with the inputs and cables available in the room. Korg lists separate audio outputs for the minilogue xd; Arturia lists stereo outputs for the MiniFreak. | If I want to capture the sound of the instrument itself, its audio connection needs to work with my recording setup. Around 33% of consumers mainly prioritise hardware audio. |
| Editing an arpeggio as MIDI | Check that your DAW recognises MIDI input and that you can use a software instrument and audio output. Novation explains that MIDI control data doesn’t contain sound. | If I want to edit notes later, before choosing a sound, I’ll need a suitable DAW and software instrument. Around 27% of consumers mainly prioritise editing MIDI later. |
| Taking it with you and using it in a shared space | Consider whether you’d rather play pads, a flat touch surface or keys. Roland lists pads for the S-1; Arturia describes the MicroFreak’s unusual keyboard surface. | If I move my equipment between workspaces, I want controls and a size that suit the space available. Around 20% of consumers prioritise portability and limited workspace. |
| Playing chords alongside arpeggios | Check how many notes can sound at once and whether the controls suit the way you play. Korg lists a maximum of four voices for the minilogue xd; Arturia lists six voices for the MiniFreak. | If I want to play several notes at once alongside an arpeggio, the voice limit needs to suit my arrangement. Around 20% of consumers make playing multiple notes at once their top priority. |
Avoid common buying mistakes
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Assuming a MIDI controller is a synthesiser that makes its own sound
A MIDI controller sends control data; it doesn’t produce the instrument sound itself. Novation makes this clear for the Launchkey.
Choose this option if you want to record MIDI and can use a working software instrument and audio output in the music room.
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Assuming USB handles audio in the same way on every model
The Roland S-1 manual lists both USB audio and USB-MIDI. That doesn’t mean other models’ USB connections offer the same recording function.
Check whether the exact model transfers audio or MIDI, then compare this with the inputs and settings at your recording location.
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Focusing only on the arpeggiator
The playing style and number of voices can matter too: Korg lists a maximum of four voices for the minilogue xd, while Roland says the S-1 uses pads rather than a conventional keyboard.
Decide in advance whether you want to play chords at the same time, and whether keys or pads better suit the way you enter patterns.
Brands worth comparing
Korg
The minilogue xd is a standalone keyboard synthesiser for playing arpeggios and patterns.
- Korg lists 37 keys, ARP/LATCH, a 16-step polyphonic sequencer and separate audio outputs for the minilogue xd.
- According to Korg, the model has a maximum of four voices, so bear this in mind if you want several notes to sound at once.
Arturia
The MicroFreak and MiniFreak are different models, each with its own controls and sound characteristics.
- Arturia describes an arpeggiator and flat keyboard surface for the MicroFreak, and six voices and stereo outputs for the MiniFreak.
- Don’t assume features of one model apply to the other; if possible, try the MicroFreak’s unusual playing surface.
Roland
The AIRA Compact S-1 is a compact standalone synthesiser for creating patterns with pad controls.
- Roland lists a sequencer, pads and an arpeggiator. The manual mentions USB audio and USB-MIDI transfer.
- The pads aren’t a conventional keyboard; also check that your computer settings suit your recording plans.
Novation
The Launchkey 37 MK4 is a MIDI controller for working with a software instrument in a DAW.
- Novation lists 37 keys and a built-in arpeggiator.
- The Launchkey doesn’t produce sound itself. You’ll need a working software instrument and configured audio output.
Joybuy products
Related products coming soon.
Frequently asked questions
Can I always record an audio track straight over USB?
No, it depends on the model. Novation explains that a Launchkey sends MIDI control data, not sound; the Roland S-1 manual lists both USB-MIDI and USB audio. Check the USB function of the exact model and select the right input in your recording software.
What should I check before getting started in the music room?
For a hardware recording, check that the available audio inputs and cables are compatible with the instrument’s outputs. If you’re using a Launchkey, assign a software instrument and your chosen audio output; Novation says these settings are needed to hear sound.
What can I do if my synthesiser doesn’t work properly after purchase?
According to ACM ConsuWijzer, a consumer product must meet what you can reasonably expect from it. If a product is faulty, the seller is responsible for providing a suitable remedy free of charge, such as a repair or replacement. This is separate from any manufacturer’s warranty.
Do I have a cooling-off period when buying online in the Netherlands?
According to ACM ConsuWijzer, standard online consumer purchases usually come with a statutory cooling-off period of up to 14 days after delivery. Check which exceptions apply to your specific purchase.
Can I share my recording if I’ve used someone else’s music?
The Dutch government says that, in principle, you need the creator’s permission to use and share copyright-protected music. A private copy for personal use must not be shared. Whether permission is needed for a particular recording depends on what you’ve used; this doesn’t in itself prevent you from recording an arpeggio you’ve created yourself.