If you mainly play one note at a time and want to adjust the sound as you solo, start with a monophonic synthesiser with keys and controls that suit your playing style. If you also want to play chords or other parts with multiple notes, compare polyphonic models. Whichever you choose, check that the audio output works with your music room’s sound system, and make sure you have the right power supply and cables.
If you mainly play monophonic lead lines and want to adjust the pitch and modulation as you play, compare the hands-on controls, key size and the difference between monophonic and paraphonic playing. Novation describes the Bass Station II as having 25 full-size keys and aftertouch; Korg lists 25 slim-keys for the monologue.
If you want to play parts with multiple notes as well as leads, look at the stated number of voices and the keyboard size. Yamaha specifies up to eight voices and 37 mini keys for the reface CS; Arturia lists six polyphonic voices and 37 slim-keys with aftertouch for the MiniFreak.
If you take your instrument between rooms, check the power options for each model and how to connect it to a sound system. Korg lists battery power for the monologue; Yamaha specifies battery power and built-in speakers for the reface CS.
First decide whether you’ll play monophonic leads only or want to add chords too. Then compare how the instrument connects to your room’s sound system, along with the keyboard and power options for the way you’ll use it.
| What to consider | What to look for when buying | Which consumers this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Leads or chords too | Check the voice configuration and play a passage using the notes you want to hear at the same time. | If I mainly play leads but sometimes want to add chords, I want to know how many notes the instrument can play at once. That’s why around 33% of consumers prioritise mono- or polyphony. |
| Connecting to the sound system | Compare the exact model’s output with the music room’s audio input, and check which cable you’ll need. | If I play through the sound system in the room, I want to know in advance whether the output and input are compatible. Around 27% of consumers put this connection first. |
| Keys and expression | Compare full-size, slim and mini keys with the part you play; check whether you want to use aftertouch or other hands-on controls. | If I want to play accurately or use expressive controls during a lead part, the keyboard is a deciding factor for me. Around 20% of consumers prioritise key feel and playing controls. |
| Portability and power | Check the power requirements and what’s actually included; remember to allow for the audio connection you’ll need too. | If I practise in different rooms, I want to know how to power the instrument and connect it to the sound system. Around 20% of consumers prioritise a portable setup. |
In paraphonic mode, the Bass Station II can play two notes, but according to Novation’s manual, they share the amplifier and filter.
Before choosing this mode as a substitute for polyphonic voices, try playing the passage you intend to use.
An instrument may have a different type of audio output from the input on the sound system in the room. Built-in speakers don’t automatically mean you can play with others without making a connection.
Check the connections on the exact model and find out which input is available. Also check which cable and power supply are included with that version.
An additional warranty is separate from your statutory right to receive a product that is fit for purpose.
Check who the seller is and what extra rights any additional warranty offers.
The Bass Station II is worth comparing if you’re looking for an analogue lead synth with full-size keys and hands-on controls.
The monologue is a monophonic analogue option with slim-keys and hands-on panel controls.
The reface CS is a compact virtual analogue option for leads and playing parts with multiple notes.
The MiniFreak is a hybrid option for anyone who wants to play leads and parts with multiple notes on the same instrument.
The GAIA 2 is worth considering if full-size keys and hands-on sound-shaping controls are important to you.
Not if you only want to play one note at a time. If you also want to play chords on the same instrument, compare the stated number of polyphonic voices. According to Novation, the Bass Station II’s paraphonic mode has a shared amplifier and filter.
Find out which audio input the sound system has, then compare it with the output on the exact model. Korg lists a mono output for the monologue; Arturia specifies balanced stereo outputs for the MiniFreak. Then work out which cable and power supply you’ll need.
Use the power supply intended for the exact model and version. Yamaha advises that, for the reface series, you shouldn’t connect a power supply or adapter other than one specified in the manual, on the rating plate or recommended by Yamaha. Check the manual for the instrument you choose too.
For eligible distance purchases from a business, you’ll often have a 14-day cooling-off period, according to the Dutch government. You’re also entitled to a product that is fit for purpose; if there’s a fault, the seller must offer a solution. The Dutch government states that there’s no fixed statutory warranty period covering all products in the Netherlands.
Not automatically for every product. According to the European Commission, CE marking is only required for products covered by EU rules that require this marking.
