Which options suit you?

Keyboard-based melody writer

You want to play in phrases and try out chords as you write; the keyboard size and number of simultaneous voices both matter. Korg lists 37 velocity-sensitive keys and up to four voices for the minilogue xd.

Pattern builder

You start with a short phrase and want to adjust notes or sounds step by step. Korg, Novation and Elektron describe sequencer or step-based features on the models mentioned here.

Loft dweller who wants to work quietly

You want to develop your ideas using headphones and be considerate of your neighbours; check the connections and listening setup on the model you choose. The Dutch Government advises people dealing with noise from neighbours to agree arrangements, including music times.

What should you look for when choosing?

Polyphonic keyboard synthesiser

Best suited to: playing in melodies and trying out chords. Korg describes the minilogue xd as having 37 velocity-sensitive keys and up to four voices; Arturia describes the MiniFreak as a polyphonic keyboard instrument with sequencing.

Consider: voice limits and keyboard sizes vary by model, so check that they suit what you want to play.

Compact synth for bass and lead phrases

Best suited to: shaping individual basslines or lead phrases and repeating short patterns. Novation lists 25 keys and four saveable sequences of up to 32 notes for the Bass Station II.

Consider: Novation describes this model as paraphonic, so don't treat it as a polyphonic keyboard for playing chords.

FM groovebox for melody and rhythm

Best suited to: programming melodic and percussive patterns step by step. Elektron describes the Model:Cycles as having six tracks and sound machines for melody and rhythm.

Consider: working with tracks and steps is different from playing melodies on a conventional keyboard.

What to consider What should you check? Who should pay particular attention?
Playing in melodies and chords Try the keys and check the maximum polyphony of the exact model. Korg lists up to four voices for the minilogue xd. If I want to play in melodies and try out chords, I want to know whether the playing style suits my ideas. Around 33% of consumers say playing in is their top buying priority.
Creating repeating patterns Compare step input with live playing and check how many notes or steps you can save. Korg lists 16 steps for the minilogue xd; Novation lists four saveable sequences of up to 32 notes for the Bass Station II. If I want to build and change a phrase step by step, I focus on how patterns are edited and stored. Around 25% of consumers prioritise pattern editing.
Listening without speakers Check whether the model has a headphone output and whether other outputs remain active. Novation says the Bass Station II's main outputs remain active when headphones are plugged in. When I want to listen in my loft without speakers, I want to know how the whole listening setup works. Around 25% of consumers make quiet listening their top buying priority.
Connecting to a computer Check the MIDI connections, audio outputs and inputs on your recording setup separately. Novation describes USB-MIDI and a separate LINE output for the Bass Station II. If I want to use the hardware sound in a computer-based production, I check the audio route in advance. Around 17% of consumers prioritise computer integration.

Things to consider when buying and using

  • Assuming USB-MIDI means USB audio

    For the Bass Station II, Novation describes MIDI over USB and a separate LINE audio output. This MIDI connection alone does not confirm that the instrument's sound can be recorded over USB.

    Before buying, map out how both notes and audio will reach your computer, and check the connections on both devices.

  • Choosing a bass synth when you want to play chords

    Novation describes the Bass Station II as paraphonic, while Korg lists up to four voices for the minilogue xd. These features suit different playing needs.

    Check the voice behaviour of the exact instrument and think about which chords or sustained notes you want to play.

  • Assuming that plugging in headphones mutes connected monitors

    According to Novation's manual, the Bass Station II's main outputs remain active when headphones are plugged in.

    Check your entire listening setup and switch off connected speakers separately when needed.

  • Confusing an extended warranty with your statutory rights

    ACM ConsuWijzer distinguishes between statutory rights and guarantees offered by a retailer or manufacturer.

    Compare what an extended warranty adds and read the terms; don't treat it as a replacement for your existing statutory rights.

Synthesiser brands to consider

Korg

The minilogue xd is a keyboard option for anyone looking to combine melodies, chords and a built-in sequencer.

  • According to Korg, this model has 37 velocity-sensitive keys, up to four voices, a 16-step polyphonic sequencer, a headphone socket, and MIDI and USB connections.
  • The four-voice limit matters if you want to play more complex chords.

Arturia

The MiniFreak is a polyphonic keyboard option with sequencing; Arturia also describes a corresponding virtual instrument for use in a DAW.

  • According to Arturia, MiniFreak V and the hardware can use the same presets.
  • Check the exact version and software terms before buying; the described link-up does not mean every audio connection offers the same capabilities.

Novation

The Bass Station II is designed for playable bass and lead phrases, with a built-in sequencer.

  • Novation lists 25 keys and four saveable sequences of up to 32 notes. The manufacturer describes the instrument as paraphonic.
  • The manual describes USB for MIDI and a separate LINE audio output; keep these routes distinct when planning a recording.

Elektron

The Model:Cycles is an FM groovebox for anyone who wants to programme melodic and percussive patterns on the same device.

  • Elektron lists six tracks and sound machines for rhythm and melody.
  • The track-based workflow and step editing differ from playing melodies on a conventional keyboard.

Related products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Are headphones enough to avoid disturbing anyone in the loft?

Not always: check any other connected outputs too. According to Novation, the Bass Station II's main outputs remain active when you plug in headphones. The Dutch Government advises people dealing with noise from neighbours to agree arrangements, such as when music can be played; this does not set a fixed cut-off time for every loft.

Can I connect a synthesiser via USB and record its sound straight away?

That depends on the features of the exact model. For the Bass Station II, Novation describes MIDI over USB and lists a separate LINE output for connecting to, among other things, an audio interface. Check the audio route before assuming that one USB cable is all you need.

How do I maintain a synthesiser in a living space?

Follow the manual for the model you bought. In the Model:Cycles manual, Elektron warns against using the device near water and using harsh cleaners on the casing or screen; these instructions apply to that specific model.

What are my rights when buying online in the Netherlands?

For eligible distance purchases, the Dutch Government generally provides a 14-day cooling-off period, with some exceptions. Statutory rights are separate: ACM ConsuWijzer points out that the retailer is your point of contact if a product does not perform as you could reasonably expect under normal use.