Start with what you want to play in one take and how you want to record it. For expansive parts and direct recording to a computer, a larger keyboard and USB audio are worth considering. For sound experimentation in a small space, a more compact instrument may suit you, provided you’re happy with less room to play and possibly using a separate audio interface.
You want to capture the instrument’s own sound on your computer while you play. So check the audio connections before weighing up extra sound features; Roland and Yamaha specify USB audio for the models and series mentioned here.
You need enough keys and simultaneous voices for parts that require plenty of room to play. A compact bass or lead synthesiser isn’t necessarily a suitable substitute.
You want to experiment with sounds in a compact setup and may be happy with a shorter keyboard or a separate recording setup. Check that the controls and playing space suit the way you improvise.
A good fit if: you play full parts and want to record the instrument’s sound directly on a computer. Roland specifies USB-C audio/MIDI for the JUNO-D6; Yamaha specifies a USB audio interface for the MODX M series.
The trade-off: a larger keyboard needs more space. Also check that the exact version works with your computer and recording software.
A good fit if: changing sounds and a smaller setup matter more to you than a long keyboard. The Korg wavestate mk II has stereo outputs; check the connections on the model you choose to make sure they suit your recording setup.
The trade-off: when recording through audio outputs, your interface and its inputs need to match the signal. Don’t assume a USB port means USB audio is available.
A good fit if: you mainly improvise individual basslines and lead parts; Novation describes the Bass Station II as an instrument with 25 keys and paraphonic modes.
The trade-off: this short keyboard gives you less physical room to play expansive chord parts. Novation specifies USB for power and MIDI; the audio signal goes through the line output.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who should pay particular attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Recording audio | Check whether the exact model offers USB audio, or which audio outputs and interface inputs you’ll need. | If I want to capture the instrument’s own sound in a take, I want to know in advance which connection I’ll need. Around 36% of consumers put direct audio recording first. |
| Room for chords | Try out the key range you need and compare the polyphony with the part you plan to play. | For parts played with both hands and longer chords, I want enough room to play. Around 29% of consumers prioritise full chord parts. |
| Setup and monitoring | Measure the space and check the dimensions and headphone connection of the exact model. | If my workspace is limited and I want to monitor with headphones, the dimensions and connections need to suit my setup. Around 21% of consumers prioritise a compact, uncluttered setup. |
| Shaping the sound | Compare the controls and sound options you want to adjust during a take; also check the limits on voices and the sequencer. | When I want to change sounds as I play, hands-on controls and the capabilities of the exact model are key. Around 14% of consumers put sound experimentation first. |
USB may support audio and MIDI on one model, but only power and MIDI on another. Novation specifies USB for power and MIDI on the Bass Station II, with audio via the line output.
Check the specifications for the exact version to see whether USB audio is explicitly listed. If it isn’t, find out which audio outputs and interface inputs you’ll need.
Recording through audio outputs may require a separate audio interface and suitable cables.
The models discussed vary in key count, so they’re designed for different types of playing. A compact keyboard can feel awkward if your part needs a wider range of keys.
Try the part you have in mind on a keyboard with a similar number of keys before letting compactness decide for you.
Recording through stereo outputs requires two suitable inputs. Focusrite recommends two interface inputs for a stereo synthesiser.
Count the instrument’s outputs and the available inputs on your existing equipment before choosing a connection.
The JUNO-D6 is a 61-key option for players looking for room to play and USB-C audio/MIDI; Roland specifies this connection for the model.
The MODX M6 is a 61-key synthesiser for players looking for multiple sound engines and computer integration.
The wavestate mk II is a compact option for improvising with wave sequencing and changing sounds.
The MiniFreak is a polyphonic hybrid synthesiser for players who value sound design more than a large keyboard.
The Bass Station II is designed for bass and lead improvisation.
No, USB-MIDI alone doesn’t automatically record the synthesiser’s sound. Roland describes MIDI recording as capturing MIDI data; check separately whether the exact instrument has USB audio, or connect its audio outputs to suitable line inputs.
Use two suitable line inputs if you want to record both stereo outputs. Focusrite specifies two interface inputs for each stereo synthesiser; then check the recording level.
For a consumer purchase, the retailer is responsible for the statutory guarantee. According to the Dutch government, the Netherlands has no fixed statutory guarantee period; a manufacturer’s warranty is in addition to this.
Rules can vary between local authorities, and disturbance to neighbours may be covered by a local authority bylaw (APV). Check the rules that apply at your address and, if necessary, agree with your neighbours on acceptable music volume.
