Which workflow is right for you?

Hands-on bass designer

You want to adjust the oscillators, filter and modulation as you play, so look for controls that are easy to reach. Novation describes the Bass Station II’s controls, while Dreadbox outlines the Hades Reissue’s patch points.

Pattern-led producer

You want to programme notes and sound changes on the instrument itself. According to their manufacturers, the Korg monologue and Dreadbox Typhon have sequencer features.

DAW-focused sound designer

You want to shape bass sounds within a computer project, so check the plugin format and operating system requirements. Vital Audio lists support for several plugin formats and platforms.

What should you look for when choosing?

Hands-on sound design with hardware

Best if: you want to shape the sound as you play.

Bear in mind: recording uses the audio connection on the specific model; USB may serve a different purpose.

Bass patterns on hardware

Best if: you want to capture notes and sound changes on the instrument.

Bear in mind: sequencer features, preset storage and audio connections vary by model.

Sound design in your DAW

Best if: you want to edit settings within your computer project.

Bear in mind: check that your operating system and DAW support the plugin format.

First decide where you want to shape the sound. Then check how you’ll programme, connect and record it.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Hands-on sound control Check the oscillator and filter options, and which controls are easy to reach. I want to adjust the bass sound as I play, rather than just change settings afterwards; around 33% of consumers say hands-on sound control is their top priority.
Connecting to your home studio Check the MIDI connection, audio output and any USB audio separately; also check which inputs your interface has. I want to record the sound in my DAW or use a plugin in my existing computer setup; around 25% of consumers prioritise studio integration.
Bass patterns and settings Compare sequencer length, programmable parameter changes and preset storage. I want to programme basslines and sound changes on the instrument and recall them later; around 25% of consumers say pattern programming is their top priority.
Complete setup Check what’s included and what you already have, such as a power supply, MIDI controller and recording connection. I want to know what else I’ll need before making a choice; around 17% of consumers focus mainly on the complete setup.

Things to consider before you buy

  • Assuming USB-MIDI is an audio connection

    On the Novation Bass Station II, USB handles MIDI and power, according to Novation. For the audio signal, the manual specifies using the line output to connect to recording equipment.

    For the exact model, check separately how MIDI and audio are routed, and which connection your audio interface needs.

    To record via the line output, you’ll need a suitable audio input and cable if you don’t already have them.

  • Focusing on the module and overlooking the rest of your setup

    The Dreadbox Hades Reissue and Typhon manuals state that a USB power adapter is not included.

    Compare what’s in the box with the power supplies and equipment you already have, and follow the power instructions for the specific model.

  • Taking an old listing as proof that a product is currently available

    ToneControl.nl and MUSIC STORE list the Roland SE-02 as discontinued. This doesn’t tell you whether other retailers stock the model.

    Check the specific listing, product version and sales status before relying on it.

Brands to consider

Dreadbox

Dreadbox describes the Hades Reissue as a monophonic, semi-modular bass voice, and the Typhon as an analogue synthesiser with a sequencer, presets and digital effects.

  • The Hades Reissue has patch points; according to Dreadbox, the Typhon offers preset memory and a sequencer.
  • The manuals state that neither model includes a USB power adapter.

Korg

Korg describes the monologue as a monophonic analogue synthesiser with 25 keys and a 16-step sequencer.

  • According to Korg, motion sequencing can record changes to up to four parameters.
  • The power adapter is optional; the monophonic design is worth considering if you want to play chords at the same time.

Novation

Novation specifies that the Bass Station II has a keyboard, two main oscillators, a sub-oscillator, two filters and a sequencer.

  • The manufacturer also lists a paraphonic mode.
  • According to the manual, USB doesn’t replace the line output for audio recording.

Moog

Moog describes the Minitaur as a compact monophonic bass module that you can control from a computer or MIDI setup.

  • Moog lists an editor for additional settings and presets.
  • The Minitaur has no built-in keyboard, so consider how you’ll control it.

Vital Audio

Vital Audio describes Vital as a wavetable software instrument for use with a compatible computer and DAW setup.

  • The developer lists visual modulation and a free Basic version.
  • Check that the operating system and plugin format are compatible with your setup; you’ll control it through software.

Roland

Roland specifies that the SE-02 is a monophonic desktop synthesiser with three oscillators, a sequencer and USB audio.

  • The connections listed by Roland include USB audio.
  • ToneControl.nl and MUSIC STORE list the SE-02 as discontinued; this doesn’t tell you what other retailers have to offer.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Is USB on a hardware synthesiser enough to record its sound in my DAW?

Not always: check whether the specific model supports USB audio. Novation lists USB for power and MIDI on the Bass Station II, and specifies the line output for audio recording. Roland specifies USB audio for the SE-02.

What power supply should I have ready for a desktop synthesiser?

Follow the manual for the specific model. For the Hades Reissue, Dreadbox specifies a suitable USB power supply of at least 1 A and a USB-A cable; according to the manual, neither is included. The Typhon comes with a USB cable, according to its manual, but not a USB power adapter.

What does the legal guarantee cover when buying from a Dutch retailer?

According to the Dutch government, a product must be of satisfactory quality, and the seller must provide a solution if there’s a valid fault. The Netherlands has no fixed statutory guarantee period that applies equally to every product; a manufacturer’s warranty doesn’t replace this right.

Can I return a synthesiser bought online if I change my mind?

For a standard distance purchase from a business, the Dutch government says that in many cases you have a 14-day cooling-off period. There are exceptions, so check who the seller is and which terms and conditions apply to your purchase.

What should I look for to make sure electrical equipment is safe?

The Dutch government states that electrical equipment placed on the market in the EU must meet the applicable safety requirements and carry a CE mark. Check this for the specific item on offer, especially if it’s imported from outside the EU; a model name alone doesn’t confirm that an individual unit complies.