Who is this for?

Pattern builder

You want to play in arpeggios quickly during rehearsals or save them step by step. How the arpeggiator and sequencer work together matters here: Roland, for example, states that the S-1’s sequencer cannot trigger its arpeggiator.

Studio recorder

You want to capture the synth sound and, if needed, editable MIDI notes in your existing recording setup. Check the difference between USB audio, USB MIDI and an audio output, such as the connections Roland and Novation list for their models.

Sound and parts creator

You want to create your own sounds, overlapping notes or multiple programmed parts. The listed voices, tracks and sound features of models such as the Elektron Digitone II, Arturia MiniFreak and Korg minilogue xd can help you decide which workflow suits you.

What should you look for?

First decide whether you want to play an arpeggio live or save it as a pattern. Then check the recording connections and make sure you have enough room for the instrument and its controls.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Playing or programming Check how you enter notes, save patterns and use the arpeggiator with the sequencer. Roland confirms that the S-1’s sequencer cannot trigger its arpeggiator. I want to play in an arpeggio quickly during rehearsals or save it as a repeatable pattern. Around 31% of consumers prioritise pattern control.
Recording audio and MIDI Check whether the exact model sends audio, MIDI or both over USB, and whether your interface has the audio input you need. Novation describes the Bass Station II as sending MIDI over USB, with a separate LINE output for audio. If I want to capture the synth sound and, if needed, editable notes in my recording setup, the connections need to be compatible. Around 31% of consumers prioritise recording connections.
Sound and parts Compare the number of voices, how they are distributed across tracks and the sound features of the exact model. Elektron specifies 16 tracks and 16 available voices for the Digitone II. I want to build my own sounds or multiple parts, and need to know how many notes can play at once. Around 23% of consumers prioritise sound and parts.
Space and controls Measure the space available, including room for cables, and choose between pads and keys. Korg specifies a 37-key keyboard for the minilogue xd; the Roland S-1 is controlled using pads. When space is limited, the choice between pads and a conventional keyboard matters to me. Around 15% of consumers prioritise space and playing surface.

Pitfalls to avoid

  • Confusing USB MIDI with recording the synth sound

    USB MIDI sends performance data, but it does not automatically record the sound you hear. Novation describes the Bass Station II as having a separate LINE output for sending audio to an audio interface, for example.

    Before you buy, map out how both the notes and the sound will reach your recording project.

    If your studio doesn’t have a suitable audio input and cable, you may need to get them. If you want a conventional keyboard, a pad-controlled module may also need an external MIDI keyboard.

  • Assuming the sequencer controls the arpeggiator

    On the Roland S-1, the sequencer cannot trigger the arpeggiator, as Roland confirms. So programming a pattern and playing an arpeggio don’t work in the same way on this model.

    Check how you can play an arpeggio live and create a repeatable pattern on the model you’re considering.

  • Treating pads, a module and a keyboard as the same playing surface

    The Roland S-1 uses pads, while Arturia and Korg specify 37-key keyboards for the MiniFreak and minilogue xd. Choose the controls that suit how you want to play during rehearsals.

    Before you buy, check both your playing preference and the space available for setup.

Synthesiser brands to consider

Roland

The S-1 is a compact option with pads, a sequencer and USB audio/MIDI.

  • Roland specifies a 64-step sequencer and USB audio/MIDI.
  • According to Roland, the S-1’s sequencer cannot trigger its arpeggiator.

Elektron

The Digitone II is designed for workflows with multiple programmed synth or MIDI tracks.

  • Elektron specifies 16 tracks, 16 available voices, an arpeggiator for each synth track and USB audio.
  • These specifications alone don’t tell you whether track-based controls will suit every keyboard player.

Arturia

The MiniFreak combines a keyboard with sound editing, an arpeggiator and an internal sequencer.

  • Arturia specifies 37 keys, six voices, 64 sequencer steps and stereo outputs.
  • USB connectivity alone doesn’t confirm that the synth records audio over USB; check how it connects to your audio interface.

Korg

The minilogue xd is a keyboard option for four-voice patterns, with both analogue and digital sound sources.

  • Korg specifies 37 keys, a 16-step polyphonic sequencer and separate audio outputs.
  • The four available voices and the instrument’s size may influence your choice.

Novation

The Bass Station II is designed for bass and lead lines played on keys, with an arpeggiator and sequencer.

  • Novation specifies 25 keys and pattern features.
  • Novation describes USB for MIDI and a separate LINE output for the hardware’s sound; check how that output connects to your interface.

Joybuy products

Related products will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

Can I record synth audio straight from any USB connection?

No. It depends on what the specific model sends over USB. Roland states that the S-1 sends both audio and MIDI over USB-C; Novation describes the Bass Station II as sending MIDI over USB, with a separate LINE output for audio. Check the model specifications and your audio interface before choosing a recording connection.

What can I try if MIDI doesn’t appear in my recording software?

First check whether your computer recognises the device. Then try a direct USB or MIDI connection, a different cable or another port. Arturia suggests these steps in its troubleshooting advice, but they won’t necessarily resolve every issue.

Do I need an extra manufacturer’s warranty to have consumer rights?

No. According to ACM ConsuWijzer, when you buy as a consumer in the Netherlands, you’re entitled to a product that meets reasonable expectations under normal use, even without an additional warranty. If a product develops a fault too soon, the seller is responsible for providing an appropriate solution free of charge. These consumer rules don’t necessarily apply to business purchases.

What should I look for when buying a new electrical instrument for the Dutch market?

Check whether the device on offer falls under harmonised EU rules that require CE marking. If it does, the required marking must be present. Your Europe and the European Commission explain this requirement for products covered by the relevant rules. This alone doesn’t mean that a specific version for sale has been checked separately.