Who is this for?

Shape your own sounds

You want to hear what oscillators, filters and modulation do to a bass line during a lesson or session, and you enjoy playing notes in.

Record bass

You want to capture the sound you’ve created in your music room recording setup, so you pay attention to the difference between audio outputs and MIDI connections.

Programme patterns

You’d rather build short bass patterns with a compact sequencer than play a traditional keyboard.

What should you look for when choosing?

When choosing a synth bass for your music room, the right option mainly depends on how you input notes, how you want to record the sound and whether you also want to play chords.

Consideration What should you check? Who is it important to?
Shape your own bass sound Compare the oscillators, filters and modulation on the exact model, and see how you adjust the settings. If I want to adjust the sound of a bass line myself during a lesson, hands-on sound shaping comes first; around 33% of consumers in this choice context make it their top priority.
Record the sound Check whether USB transfers audio, or connect the audio output to a suitable input on your recording equipment. If I want to capture the bass I can hear in my recording, I check the entire audio signal path; around 27% of consumers in this choice context make recording their top priority.
Create patterns in a limited space Compare the input method and pattern storage, and check that the controls suit your workspace. If I’d rather enter bass patterns step by step than play them on keys, a compact workflow suits me better; around 20% of consumers in this choice context prioritise pattern programming.
Play bass and chords Check the maximum polyphony, the controls with keys or pads, and the dimensions. If I want to use the same instrument for bass and simultaneous notes, I look at its voice capacity and playing controls; around 20% of consumers in this choice context make this combination their top priority.

What to consider when buying and using

  • Confusing USB-MIDI with audio recording

    For the Bass Station II, Novation describes USB as supporting MIDI and other functions, and lists a line output for the audio signal. Roland lists USB audio and MIDI for the S-1.

    Before buying, map out the complete connection from the synthesiser to your recording equipment for the exact model.

    Brands to consider

    Novation

    The Bass Station II is a keyboard instrument for anyone who wants to shape analogue bass lines themselves.

    • Novation specifies two oscillators, a sub-oscillator, two filters and 25 keys; the manufacturer describes the model as paraphonic.
    • Novation describes USB as supporting MIDI and other functions, and lists a line output for audio. Check how to connect this output to your recording setup.

    Behringer

    The TD-3-SR is a specific option for programmed analogue bass lines.

    • Behringer specifies a VCO, VCF, 16-step sequencer and distortion.
    • These specifications describe the TD-3-SR’s bass-line function; they aren’t an independent comparison of sound quality or of other Behringer models.

    Roland

    The S-1 combines pad controls, waveform editing and bass patterns in a compact instrument.

    • Roland specifies four voices, multi-function pads and a 64-step sequencer; the manual lists USB audio and MIDI.
    • The pads won’t replace a physical keyboard if you prefer to play notes on keys.

    Korg

    The minilogue xd is a keyboard option for anyone who wants to create polyphonic parts as well as bass.

    • Korg specifies up to four voices, 37 keys and a 16-step sequencer.
    • The listed dimensions are 500 × 300 × 85 mm; check that the instrument will fit in the space available.

    Arturia

    The MiniFreak is an option for anyone who wants to explore different approaches to digital sound.

    • Arturia describes a range of digital engines and sound-shaping modes.
    • These model-specific features don’t prove that the MiniFreak sounds better for every kind of synth bass.

Joybuy products

Related products will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does every synthesiser record its own sound straight to USB?

No, it varies by model. For the Bass Station II, Novation describes USB as supporting MIDI and other functions, and lists a separate line output for audio. Roland’s manual confirms that the S-1 supports USB audio and MIDI; check that the cable you’re using can transfer data.

How can I listen without sound carrying throughout the music room?

According to Novation, the Bass Station II has a headphone output, but the main outputs remain active when you connect headphones. So check your mixer or speakers too, and start with the volume low. The World Health Organization warns that loud sounds can damage your hearing.

Who can help if a product develops a fault after purchase in the Netherlands?

According to the Dutch government, the seller must provide a solution if a product is faulty. There is no fixed statutory guarantee period for all products; what you can expect depends, among other things, on the product and normal use.

Does a CE mark confirm a synthesiser’s sound quality?

No. According to Business.gov.nl, CE is not a quality mark, but a statement by the manufacturer that the product complies with the applicable EU rules. The requirements for a particular electrical model depend on its features; the mark says nothing about its suitability for making music.