Who is this for?

Live player who adjusts arpeggios

You want to play notes and change the pattern while recording. In that case, the keyboard and arpeggiator controls matter more than extensive track programming.

DAW recorder

You want to be able to edit a pattern later and record the synth sound. Assess MIDI, audio outputs and the inputs on your recording setup separately.

Pattern builder

You want to create repeatable steps or build several rhythmic and melodic parts. The sequencer workflow and the number of available voices or tracks will help determine which approach suits you.

What should you look for?

Keyboard and live arpeggios

Choose this option if: you want to adjust patterns as you play.

Bear in mind: the Bass Station II records sound through its line output, for example to an audio interface. Novation describes USB as being for MIDI, power and patches, not as a USB audio route.

Repeatable steps and polyphonic parts

Choose this option if: you want to record notes step by step and need parts with simultaneous notes.

Bear in mind: the Korg minilogue xd has four voices and a 16-step polyphonic sequencer; the number of voices limits how many notes can sound at once.

Compact pad-based controls

Choose this option if: you value a compact setup or several programmed rhythmic and melodic tracks.

Bear in mind: the Roland S-1 sequencer cannot trigger the arpeggiator; the Elektron Model:Cycles has six tracks, but no traditional keyboard.

What to consider What to look for when buying Who is this important for?
Creating and repeating arpeggios Compare the arpeggiator and sequencer controls; also check whether the functions work together on the model you’re considering. If I want to play variations during a take or repeat a pattern, the workflow is crucial. Around 33% of consumers prioritise live playing or programming patterns.
Recording audio and MIDI Check whether USB audio is available, which physical audio outputs the model has and how many suitable line inputs your interface offers. I want to be able to edit performance data later and record the sound of the synth, so I check both signal paths. Around 27% of consumers make recording connections their top priority.
Sound and simultaneous notes Compare the sound source and stated polyphony; don’t mistake the number of tracks for the number of keyboard voices. When my arrangement calls for overlapping notes or several parts, I look at the sound generation and the number of voices or tracks. Around 27% of consumers make these their first selection criteria.
Workspace and monitoring Compare pads with a keyboard and check the headphone and audio outputs on the exact model. If the setup needs to take up little space and I want to monitor privately, both the controls and connections matter. Around 13% of consumers prioritise this compact approach.

Common buying pitfalls

  • Assuming USB guarantees USB audio

    USB functionality varies by model. Without a supported audio route, you can’t record the sound of the synth via USB.

    Check the exact model to see whether USB supports MIDI, USB audio or only other functions, and also check its physical audio outputs.

    Models that send sound through a line output may require a suitable audio interface and cable.

  • Assuming the sequencer and arpeggiator always work together

    The automatic pattern workflow you want won’t work on every device. Roland says that the S-1 sequencer cannot trigger the arpeggiator.

    Check that the functions on the model you’re considering actually control one another, rather than simply checking that both are included.

  • Connecting a stereo synth to one free recording input

    Recording in stereo through separate left and right outputs requires two interface inputs.

    Count your available line inputs in advance and check which outputs the synthesizer you choose has.

    If you don’t have enough inputs, you may need extra interface inputs or a different recording setup.

Brands to consider

Arturia

The MicroFreak and MiniFreak offer different ways to play: the MicroFreak has a flat touch keyboard, while the MiniFreak has a keyboard with an arpeggiator and sequencer.

  • According to Arturia, the MicroFreak combines digital oscillators with analogue filters.
  • The flat keyboard feels different from moving keys. Treat the MicroFreak and MiniFreak as separate models.

Korg

The minilogue xd is worth considering if you want to combine a keyboard, arpeggios and polyphonic steps.

  • Korg specifies four voices, a 16-step polyphonic sequencer and L/mono and R outputs.
  • Four voices limit how many notes can sound at once.

Novation

The Bass Station II is designed for hands-on playing, analogue sound shaping and saved patterns.

  • Novation specifies an arpeggiator and four saved sequences of up to 32 notes.
  • For audio recording, Novation recommends using the line output, for example to an audio interface; USB is not specified here as a USB audio route.

Roland

The S-1 offers a compact, pad-controlled way to create arpeggios and steps.

  • Pad controls offer an alternative to a traditional keyboard.
  • According to Roland, the S-1 sequencer cannot trigger the arpeggiator.

Elektron

The Model:Cycles is an FM groovebox for creating melodic patterns and rhythms across different tracks.

  • Elektron specifies six tracks, pads, audio outputs and class-compliant USB audio.
  • The Model:Cycles has no traditional keyboard; six tracks do not mean six keyboard voices.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Can I record sound directly from any USB synth?

No. Check the USB audio functionality of the exact model. Novation describes USB on the Bass Station II as supporting, among other things, MIDI, power and patches, and recommends using the line output to connect to an audio interface. Elektron specifies class-compliant USB audio for the Model:Cycles.

How do I connect a synth with two audio outputs for stereo recording?

Use two suitable line inputs on your audio interface and set up a stereo track with those inputs in your recording software. First check whether your synthesizer has two outputs; the Korg minilogue xd has L/mono and R outputs, according to Korg.

Can the Roland S-1 sequencer start its arpeggiator?

No. According to Roland, the S-1 sequencer cannot trigger the arpeggiator. You can play the arpeggiator using the pads or an external MIDI keyboard.

How can I keep noise to a minimum when practising in a loft?

Headphones can help you monitor your sound privately, but check the output settings too: according to Novation, the Bass Station II’s main outputs remain active when headphones are connected. The Dutch government advises people to try to reach an agreement with their neighbours first if noise is causing a nuisance. Local rules, including municipal by-laws, may vary, so this information does not establish a nationally permitted volume or playing time.

What are my rights when buying a synthesizer online in the Netherlands?

For eligible distance purchases from a business, the Dutch government says that in many cases you have a 14-day cooling-off period; check the terms and exceptions that apply to your purchase. If a product is faulty, the seller is responsible for providing the statutory guarantee. The Netherlands does not have a fixed statutory guarantee period.