Who is this for?

Game sound designer

You want to design your own effects, leads and evolving sound textures, so you compare sound engines and modulation options. Arturia and Novation describe these features for the MiniFreak and Peak respectively.

Short game cue creator

You want to create repeatable synth and drum patterns quickly during rehearsals, potentially without programming everything in a DAW first. Roland and Korg describe built-in sequencers for the JD-Xi and minilogue xd.

Composer with a studio setup

You want to record chords and layers, so you need to assess both polyphony and how MIDI and audio will reach your recording equipment. Korg and Yamaha list model-specific polyphony; for recording hardware, Ableton describes connecting the audio output to an audio interface.

What should you look for when choosing?

Start with what you want to create during rehearsals. Then check the features of the exact model and how the instrument connects to your recording chain.

What to consider What should you look for? Who is this important for?
Designing your own sounds Compare the sound engines, modulation options and controls on the exact model. If I mainly want to create my own timbres and effects for scenes, I’ll look at the sound-design options first. Around 28% of consumers put sound design at the top of their list when buying.
Recording audio and MIDI Check whether USB audio is supported, or whether you need to connect the audio outputs to suitable audio inputs. If I want to record both the parts I play and the audible synth sound in my studio, I’ll check both signal paths. Around 22% of consumers make audio recording their top priority.
Playing chords and layers Compare the maximum polyphony and keyboard configuration of the exact version with what you want to play. If chords and layered parts are central to my soundtrack, I’ll look at how many notes can sound at the same time. Around 22% of consumers prioritise polyphony.
Building short patterns Check how many sequencer tracks or steps the model offers, and whether you want to programme drums and synth parts separately. If I want to put together repeatable phrases or a cue with several parts quickly during rehearsals, I’ll look for a built-in sequencer. Around 17% of consumers put pattern-building first.
Working across different spaces Check the model’s power supply, built-in monitoring and audio outputs. If I want to develop ideas between rehearsal spaces without setting up my whole studio each time, I’ll consider portability and how I can hear the sound. Around 11% of consumers put portability at the top of their list when buying.

Common purchasing pitfalls

  • Assuming USB-MIDI guarantees an audio connection

    MIDI can carry notes and control data, but it won’t automatically capture the sound you hear from the synthesiser.

    Check whether the USB connection on the exact model supports USB audio. If it doesn’t, plan the route from the audio outputs to your recorder or DAW in advance.

    Recording through analogue audio outputs may require an audio interface and suitable audio cables.

  • Confusing polyphony with the number of musical parts

    The number of notes that can sound at once and the number of sequencer tracks describe different features. The minilogue xd has up to four voices; on the JD-Xi, four tracks refers to the pattern sequencer. The JD-Xi’s analogue section is monophonic.

    Compare the number of simultaneous notes, available parts and sequencer tracks separately against the cue you want to create.

  • Buying a desktop synth as if it has a built-in keyboard

    The Novation Peak is a desktop synth with no built-in keyboard; its sound-design features don’t provide keys to play on.

    Check that your existing controller and MIDI connections suit the way you work.

    You may need a separate controller to play it from a keyboard.

Relevant brands to consider

Arturia

The MiniFreak is worth considering if you want to combine sound design with a playable keyboard.

  • Arturia lists two engines, six voices, modulation and stereo effects for the MiniFreak.
  • The six-voice limit applies to this model, not to every synthesiser from the brand.

Roland

The JD-Xi is worth considering if you want to combine synth parts and drums in patterns during rehearsals.

  • Roland lists a four-track pattern sequencer and USB audio and MIDI communication.
  • The analogue synth section on this model is monophonic; the digital sections have a different role.

Korg

The minilogue xd is worth considering if you want direct control of sound parameters and the ability to programme short patterns.

  • Korg specifies an analogue generator, a digital multi-engine and a 16-step sequencer for this model.
  • The minilogue xd has a maximum polyphony of four voices.

Yamaha

The reface CS is worth considering for portable sketching with hands-on virtual-analogue sounds.

  • Yamaha lists eight-voice polyphony for the CS, along with speakers and battery power for the reface series.
  • Built-in speakers aren’t necessarily suitable as a replacement for your studio monitoring.

Novation

The Peak is worth considering as a desktop sound module if you already have a keyboard controller.

  • Novation specifies eight voices, wavetables and a modulation matrix for the Peak.
  • The Peak has no built-in keyboard; these features apply to this model.

Synthesizers at Joybuy

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Is USB-MIDI enough to record my synthesiser’s sound in a DAW?

No, USB-MIDI alone won’t record the sound you hear. Check whether the exact instrument supports USB audio; if it doesn’t, you can record the audio output through suitable inputs on an audio interface. Use MIDI separately for things such as notes and control data.

What should I check if the built-in sequencer isn’t in sync with my recording?

Check the MIDI clock and sync settings on your equipment and in your DAW. Ableton warns that enabling sync on both the input and output of the same device can cause a feedback loop; this advice applies specifically to that software and configuration.

Which electrical product regulations are relevant when buying in the Netherlands?

Electrical and electronic equipment sold in the Netherlands must comply with the applicable European rules. Business.gov.nl states that CE marking is required when the relevant product legislation says so. The mark is a declaration of conformity made by the manufacturer, not an independent quality mark.

What warranty and cooling-off period apply if I’m buying for my studio?

Consumer purchases in the Netherlands are covered by a statutory guarantee; according to the Dutch government, there is no fixed statutory guarantee period and the seller must put faulty products right. For consumer purchases made at a distance, you generally have 14 days to change your mind. Don’t assume these consumer rules also apply if you’re buying for your studio as a business.