Start by considering how many voices you need when notes ring out as you play the next chord. Then choose between hands-on controls, more extensive sound-shaping options and a compact listening setup. The stated voice limits for the models discussed give you a useful starting point for comparison, but your chord changes and preferred sound will determine whether those limits work for you in practice.
You want notes to keep ringing as you play the next chord. That makes the stated maximum polyphony an important factor in your choice. Korg, Thomann Netherlands, Yamaha, ASM and Novation list different voice limits for the models discussed.
You want to change sounds as you play, using features such as filters, modulation and effects. Weigh up the available features against the controls you find comfortable to use. Korg, Thomann Netherlands and ASM describe these options for the models mentioned.
You practise in a small or shared space and want to know how the instrument will fit and how you can listen to it. Dimensions, a headphone socket and any built-in speakers can all make a difference. Yamaha and ASM list specifications for the models discussed.
First, compare the available voices with your chord changes. Then consider which sound controls and effects you want to use as you play, and finally check that the synth and listening setup will fit in your practice space.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this especially important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Voice capacity when chords overlap | Play a chord, hold it and start playing the next one. Check the maximum polyphony of the exact model. | If I let notes ring out as I change chords, I want to know whether the synth has enough voices for the way I play. Around 36% of consumers prioritise sufficient polyphony. |
| Shaping sounds as you play | Check which effects are included and try adjusting the filter, modulation and effect level as you play. | I want to be able to change a sustained ambient sound without taking my attention away from playing. Around 29% of consumers give sound shaping top priority. |
| Space and quiet practice | Measure the available width and depth, including space for cables. Check how you can listen, for example through headphones or built-in speakers. | If my practice space is small or shared, I want to know in advance whether the instrument and listening setup will fit. Around 21% of consumers make space and quiet practice their main concern. |
| Getting started easily | Check what’s included in the exact listing and make sure it has the connections and components you need for your listening setup. | I want to use my synth without finding out later that it won’t connect to my chosen listening setup. Around 14% of consumers prioritise a straightforward setup. |
Two 37-key synths can differ in polyphony and sound controls. When you’re holding chords, the number of keys and the voice limit are therefore separate factors to consider.
Compare the maximum polyphony and try playing the chord change you have in mind.
A small instrument still needs space for cables, and listening options vary between models. Yamaha lists built-in speakers for the reface CS; for other models, check which listening connections are available.
Measure your setup space and check the connections and included accessories in the exact listing.
Depending on how you choose to listen, you may need extra equipment, such as suitable headphones, connection cables or speakers.
The Dutch Government distinguishes between an additional manufacturer’s or seller’s warranty and your statutory right to a product that is fit for purpose. There is no fixed statutory warranty period in the Netherlands.
Keep your proof of purchase and contact the seller if there’s a problem with the product.
The minilogue xd combines analogue and digital sound generation with hands-on controls and built-in effects.
The MiniFreak is a compact hybrid synth for players who want to shape sounds and chords.
The reface CS is designed for a shallow setup, with hands-on controls and built-in speakers.
The Hydrasynth Explorer is a digital option for expressive playing and extensive sound shaping.
The MiniNova is a compact digital synth for players looking for plenty of voices and stored sounds.
It depends on how many notes you hold at once and how you move to the next chord. Korg specifies a maximum of four voices for the minilogue xd. Try playing your own chord changes to see whether that limit suits the way you play.
No, not if your chosen synth has a listening option that suits you. Yamaha specifies built-in speakers for the reface CS. For other models, check which connections are available and decide whether you want to listen through headphones or existing speakers.
Check that the instrument and cables fit comfortably, connect your chosen listening setup and try your usual chords and effects. If you share your home, agree on music volume where necessary; the Dutch Government recommends speaking to your neighbours as a first step if noise becomes a problem.
For distance purchases from a business, you usually have 14 days to change your mind; check the terms of your specific purchase. This is separate from your right to receive a product that is fit for purpose. According to the Dutch Government, there is no fixed statutory warranty period in the Netherlands. Contact the seller if the product is faulty.
According to the European Union, CE marking is required only when the product rules that apply to the product specify it. Check the product and power supply information for the exact model; this rule alone doesn’t determine whether a specific listing complies.
