First, choose a synthesiser with a clear way to record the sounds you play: USB audio can go directly to a compatible computer, while separate audio outputs need to connect to a suitable audio input. Then compare the keyboard and available voices with your playing style, and check whether you can listen through headphones. Compact keyboards and limited polyphony may restrict fuller or longer parts.
You want to capture the synthesiser’s own sound on your computer as you play. Roland lists a USB-C audio/MIDI interface for the JUNO-D6; Novation says the MiniNova has no built-in audio interface for recording its own sound over USB.
You’ll want to consider the keyboard range, key feel and how many notes can sound at once. Roland lists 61 velocity-sensitive keys for the JUNO-D6; Korg specifies up to four voices for the minilogue xd, while Arturia lists six voices for the MiniFreak.
You want to listen through headphones in a shared home or spare room. Korg lists a headphone socket for the minilogue xd and multi/poly; Yamaha lists one for the reface CS.
The percentages below relate to consumers looking for a synthesiser to improvise and record at home. Each figure reflects the consumer’s main purchasing priority.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Recording the sound | Check whether the exact model supports USB audio. If not, see whether its audio outputs can connect to a suitable input in your recording setup. | I want to be able to record the sound I play, rather than assume that a MIDI connection also carries audio. Around 33% of consumers prioritise recording the instrument’s own sound. |
| Keyboard and playing feel | Compare the number of keys with your playing style, and try an unfamiliar key mechanism yourself where possible. | When I improvise chords, I want enough range and a keyboard that suits the way I play. Around 27% of consumers prioritise the keyboard. |
| Practising with headphones | Check whether the version has a headphone socket and whether your plug will fit. | In a shared home, I want to listen without using speakers. Around 20% of consumers prioritise quiet practice with headphones. |
| Chords and sound | Check the polyphony and try the chords and sustained notes you want to play; the maximum number of voices may depend on the settings. | While improvising, I want to use chords and change sounds without unexpectedly hitting a voice limit. Around 20% of consumers choose mainly based on sound and polyphony. |
A MIDI connection captures performance data, but that doesn’t automatically mean the synthesiser’s own sound will go to recording software over USB. Novation says the MiniNova has no built-in audio interface for recording this way.
Check whether USB audio is specified for the exact model, and work out how the synthesiser’s sound will reach your recording software.
If your existing computer doesn’t have a suitable audio input, a model with separate audio outputs may require a compatible audio interface and cables.
The range and key mechanism vary. The Arturia MicroFreak has a flat touch keyboard with no moving keys, so it feels different from a keyboard with physical keys.
Compare the number of keys with the parts you want to play, and try an unfamiliar key mechanism yourself where possible.
Korg specifies up to four voices for the minilogue xd. According to Korg, the multi/poly’s maximum of 60 voices depends on the settings.
Try the chords and sustained notes you want to record using the sound settings you plan to use.
The JUNO-D6 is worth considering if you’re looking for a playable keyboard with a USB audio/MIDI interface. According to Roland’s own specifications, this model has 61 velocity-sensitive keys and a built-in audio/MIDI interface.
The minilogue xd and multi/poly offer different sound-generation methods. Korg lists separate audio outputs and a headphone socket for both models.
The MicroFreak is designed for experimentation, with a flat touch keyboard; according to Arturia, the MiniFreak uses two digital sound engines.
The reface CS is a compact synthesiser with 37 mini keys, a headphone socket and separate audio outputs.
With 25 physical keys, the Bass Station II is suited to short bass and lead parts. You’ll need to check the MiniNova’s audio connection separately.
No. Check for USB audio separately. Roland lists a USB-C audio/MIDI interface for the JUNO-D6; Novation says the MiniNova’s own sound can’t be recorded over USB using its built-in audio interface. For that model, check how to connect the audio output to an external audio interface or suitable line input.
First, work out how the audio will reach your recording input. Then connect suitable headphones if you want to listen without speakers. Start at a low volume: the MiniNova manual warns that high sound levels can damage your hearing.
Contact the seller. According to the Dutch government, the seller must provide a product that works properly and can’t simply send you to the manufacturer if it’s faulty. The appropriate solution depends on the fault and the circumstances; a free repair or replacement may be appropriate.
For applicable consumer purchases made at a distance, the Dutch government says a 14-day cooling-off period applies in many cases. Check whether an exception applies and what terms and conditions cover your purchase.
