Who is this choice relevant to?

Layered chord player

You want to combine several sounds in a single chord, so your first considerations are internal layers and polyphony.

Creator of evolving pads

You want to design sounds with slow movement, effects and, possibly, sequences that keep running.

Home recorder with limited space

You want to use headphones and know in advance how the instrument connects to your recording equipment.

What should you look for when buying?

First, decide whether you want to play sound layers at the same time or record them one after another. Then consider how you’ll listen quietly, record audio and operate the instrument in your workspace.

What to consider What should you look for? Who is this important for?
Simultaneous layers and polyphony Check whether the layers can play separate sounds at the same time, and try a chord with the release time you want. Korg specifies four layers and up to 96 stereo voices for the wavestate mk II. For the multi/poly, Korg lists four layers and up to 60 voices, depending on the settings. I want to build a chord from different sounds straight away and let notes ring out for a long time; around 33% of consumers prioritise simultaneous layers and polyphony.
Sound movement and effects Decide whether you’re looking for independent layers, movement within a single patch or continuous sequences. SONICWARE describes the LIVEN Ambient Ø as having four layers, each with its own sequencer; ASM lists the Hydrasynth Explorer as having eight voices and no split or stack function. If I want a pad to change slowly, modulation and effects matter more to me than simply having more notes; around 27% of consumers prioritise evolving sounds.
Quiet playing and recording Check the headphone output, audio outputs and connection to your recorder or computer. Don’t assume a USB port means the instrument supports USB audio: Korg lists a headphone output and separate audio outputs for the wavestate mk II. I want to listen in a shared or quiet space and be able to record my pad; around 20% of consumers prioritise headphone use and a suitable recording connection.
Controls for a limited workspace Measure the space available and think about whether you’ll mainly play chords, add layers or adjust parameters. Compare a keyboard with a compact sequencer based on the actions you’ll perform most often. If my workspace is small, I want to be able to carry out the action I use most quickly; around 20% of consumers prioritise compact, straightforward controls.

Pitfalls to avoid

  • Mistaking two sound engines for two independent sound layers

    Having two sound engines per voice doesn’t automatically mean you can play separate layers at the same time. Arturia lists two sound engines per voice for the MiniFreak; Korg describes separate performance layers for the wavestate mk II.

    If you want to play different sounds at once, look in the specifications for independently adjustable, simultaneous layers or parts.

  • Comparing only the maximum number of voices

    The stated maximum doesn’t necessarily apply to every patch. Korg says the multi/poly’s maximum of 60 voices depends on the settings; sustained notes and multiple layers can affect how much polyphony is available.

    Assess a patch using the number of layers, chord notes and release time you plan to use.

  • Assuming every term is fixed when buying from outside the EU

    Delivery, additional charges and purchase terms can vary. A manufacturer’s model specifications don’t confirm which version or terms apply to a particular order in the Netherlands.

    Before buying, check who the seller is, which version you’re buying, the total cost and returns terms, and which product regulations apply.

    Delivery, import or return costs may affect your final choice.

Brands and models to consider

Korg

The wavestate mk II and multi/poly are options for simultaneous layers, while the minilogue xd is designed for more hands-on sound control. These features apply to the models listed, not to every Korg synthesiser.

  • Korg specifies four layers and up to 96 stereo voices for the wavestate mk II. For the multi/poly, Korg lists four layers and up to 60 voices, depending on the settings.
  • Korg lists a maximum of four voices for the minilogue xd. The stated maximum alone doesn’t tell you how many voices will remain available in a particular multi-layer patch.

SONICWARE

According to SONICWARE, the LIVEN Ambient Ø is designed for drones, pads, atmospheric sounds and noise layers in a compact sequencer.

  • SONICWARE describes four layers, a sequencer for each layer and a headphone output.
  • Check that the playing style and connections suit your setup and the specific version you want to buy.

Arturia

The MiniFreak is a keyboard synthesiser for playing and shaping polyphonic patches.

  • Arturia specifies six-voice polyphony, 37 keys and stereo outputs.
  • The two sound engines per voice aren’t the same as two independently playable performance layers.

ASM

The Hydrasynth Explorer is a compact keyboard option for modulation and expression within a patch.

  • ASM’s comparison chart lists eight voices.
  • According to the chart, the Explorer has no split or stack function. Bear this in mind if you’re looking for separate, simultaneous sound layers.

Novation

The Peak is a desktop instrument for playing notes from an existing keyboard or another controller.

  • Novation specifies eight voices, modulation and built-in reverb, delay and chorus.
  • As it’s a desktop instrument, consider how you’ll control it and connect it to your recording equipment.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Are four voices enough for my pad?

It depends on how many notes sound at once and how long they ring out. Korg specifies a maximum of four voices for the minilogue xd. Try the chord you have in mind with a long release before choosing this model for overlapping pads.

Can I automatically record audio on my computer via USB-B?

No. Don’t assume that a USB-B port means the instrument supports USB audio. Check the audio capabilities of the exact version; otherwise, use the audio outputs and a suitable connection to your recording equipment.

What should I check if I want to play with headphones?

Check whether the model has a headphone output and whether your plug will fit. Korg specifies a 6.3mm stereo headphone socket for the wavestate mk II; follow your equipment’s manual when setting the volume.

What if an instrument I bought online turns out to be faulty?

When you buy a product in an EU country, you may have statutory rights if it was faulty on delivery, including repair or replacement under the applicable terms. Check who the seller is before ordering; a manufacturer’s warranty is separate from these statutory rights.

Does an electrical instrument sold in the Netherlands need a CE mark?

A CE mark is required when the applicable harmonised EU rules specify it for that product category. Check the specific version on offer; a mark shown for a different variant doesn’t prove that this version complies with the rules.