Start by thinking about how you want to play in your arpeggios, then check the headphone and audio connections. Roland documents USB audio on the S-1; the Korg minilogue xd and Novation Bass Station II have separate audio outputs that are relevant for recording. Plugging in headphones does not disable the other outputs on every model: Novation states that the Bass Station II’s main outputs remain active, so check your speakers too and agree some ground rules about noise at home.
You want to play in patterns, hold them or develop them further, and understand that an arpeggiator is not automatically the same as a sequencer. Roland describes arpeggios played using the pads; Roland and Korg also document model-specific differences between arpeggiator and sequencer functions.
You want to use headphones while keeping connected speakers and listening volume in mind. Novation states that the Bass Station II’s main outputs remain active when you plug in headphones; VeiligheidNL recommends well-fitting headphones to let in less background noise.
You want to record your synthesizer’s sound, so you need to distinguish USB audio from USB-MIDI. Roland documents both via USB on the S-1; Novation describes USB on the Bass Station II for MIDI and patch management, among other things, and specifies the line output for audio.
First decide how you want to play notes and control patterns; then consider how you’ll listen and connect to your recording equipment.
| What to consider | What to look for when buying | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| How the arpeggiator works | Check how you enter and hold notes; separately, see whether the combination you want works with a sequencer. | If I want to enter notes live and hold patterns, the controls need to suit that workflow. Around 36% of consumers prioritise how the arpeggiator works. |
| Listening quietly at home | Check what happens to the other outputs when you use headphones, and whether the headphones fit well. | When I live with other people, I want to listen through headphones without overlooking any connected speakers. Around 29% of consumers prioritise listening with as little disturbance as possible. |
| Recording synth sounds | Check whether USB audio is explicitly mentioned; if not, look at the audio output and the input on your recording equipment. | If I want to record synth sounds in my recording software, the connection needs to work with my equipment. Recording audio is the top priority for around 21% of consumers. |
| Feel and sound design | Compare the controls and check which sound and voice features matter for the way you play. | If I want to play the notes myself, it matters whether keys, pads or a touch surface suit my way of working. Around 14% of consumers base their choice mainly on feel and sound design. |
A USB connection does not automatically carry audio. Roland documents USB audio on the S-1; Novation describes USB on the Bass Station II for MIDI, power and patch management.
Look specifically for USB audio in the documentation for the exact model. If this feature is not listed, work out in advance how to connect the audio output to your recording input.
Depending on your current recording setup, you may need a suitable audio cable or audio interface.
According to Novation, the Bass Station II’s main outputs remain active when you plug in headphones. Any connected speakers may therefore continue to play sound.
Before you start playing, check that your mixer and speakers are muted, and agree with the people you live with on suitable times for playing music.
The two functions are not interchangeable. Roland states that the S-1’s sequencer cannot control its arpeggiator.
Think about how you want to create and control the pattern, then check that your chosen model supports that specific workflow.
The S-1 is worth considering if you’re looking for a compact setup with arpeggios and USB audio.
The minilogue xd is worth a look if you want a built-in keyboard, four voices and an ARP/LATCH mode.
The Bass Station II suits anyone looking for full-size keys, direct arpeggiator controls and a step sequencer.
The MicroFreak is worth considering if a compact touch keyboard and digital sound design are important to you.
Don’t assume so just because it has a USB port: check whether the documentation specifies USB audio for the exact model. Roland documents USB audio on the S-1; Novation describes USB on the Bass Station II for MIDI, power and patch management, and specifies the line output for audio. Also check that the connection is compatible with the input on your recording equipment.
Don’t assume they do. According to Novation, the Bass Station II’s main outputs remain active when you plug in headphones, so check any connected mixer or speakers before you start.
VeiligheidNL recommends well-fitting headphones to let in less background noise, so you won’t need to turn the volume up as high. Also be mindful of the volume and how long you listen for.
Check the rules and agreements that apply where you live. The Dutch Government notes that local councils can address nuisance between neighbours through the General Local Bye-Law (APV), and advises agreeing on things such as what time music should be turned off.
Contact the seller. According to ACM ConsuWijzer, the seller is responsible for the statutory guarantee if a product does not meet what you could reasonably expect during normal use. An appropriate solution could be a repair, replacement or refund.
