Who is this guide for?

Lead player who shapes the sound live

You mainly play one note at a time and want to control the filter, modulation and pitch as you play.

Producer who also plays chords

You want to record lead parts and use the same synthesizer for polyphonic parts too.

Keyboard player looking for per-note expression

When playing polyphonically, you want to shape the sound of individual notes using key pressure.

What should you look for?

First, decide whether you mainly play single-note leads or also need to play chords. Then compare the controls, keyboard and connections to find what suits your recording setup.

What to consider What to look for when buying Who should prioritise this?
Hands-on lead control Check that the controls and performance features you want to use are within reach as you play. I want to adjust the filter and modulation as I play a lead. Around 33% of consumers in this buying context prioritise hands-on lead control.
Leads and chords Check the number of true polyphonic voices and distinguish this from mono or paraphonic modes. If I want to play chords as well as leads, the synth needs enough true voices for my parts. Around 27% of consumers prioritise this combination.
Recording in a home studio Compare the MIDI and audio connections with your computer, audio interface and available inputs; check whether USB carries audio. I want to know how both the notes I play and the sound I hear will reach my recording setup. Around 20% of consumers prioritise studio connectivity.
Keyboard and expression Consider the key size and range, and distinguish between standard and polyphonic aftertouch. If key pressure is an important part of how I play leads, I want to know how the keyboard responds and whether I can shape individual notes. Around 20% of consumers prioritise keyboard expression.

Common pitfalls

  • Mistaking paraphony for full polyphony

    Novation describes the Bass Station II as monophonic by default, even though the instrument has a paraphonic mode. That mode is not the same as playing chords with independent polyphonic voices.

    If you need to play several independent notes at once, check how many true polyphonic voices the model has.

  • Assuming USB also carries the synth's audio

    A USB connection alone does not prove that you can record audio over USB. MIDI and audible sound may use different connection routes.

    Before buying, map out the MIDI and audio routes to your computer and audio interface separately.

  • Comparing voice count alone

    A synth may be suitable for leads, yet still have a keyboard or controls that do not suit the way you play.

    Check the key size and range, aftertouch and how easy it is to reach the controls you need for the part you want to play.

Brands to consider

Novation

The Bass Station II is worth considering if you mainly play monophonic leads and want to shape the sound as you play.

  • According to Novation, this model has two main analogue oscillators, filters and 25 keys with aftertouch.
  • Novation describes the instrument as monophonic by default; paraphony is not full polyphony.

Arturia

The MiniFreak is a hybrid keyboard synth for anyone who wants to play leads and polyphonic parts on the same instrument.

  • According to Arturia, the MiniFreak has six polyphonic voices and 37 velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch.
  • The voice count and specifications describe the model, but they do not, by themselves, tell you whether the keyboard and sound will suit your playing style.

Korg

The minilogue xd is a four-voice option for anyone who wants to play chords as well as leads.

  • Korg lists 37 keys and MIDI, USB and audio connections for this model.
  • Maximum polyphony is four voices, so bear that in mind when choosing the parts you want to play.

ASM

The Hydrasynth Explorer is worth considering if per-key expression matters to you.

  • According to ASM, the Explorer has eight voices, 37 medium-sized keys with polyphonic aftertouch, USB-MIDI and stereo audio outputs.
  • Polyphonic aftertouch is a specific playing requirement and is not essential for every monophonic lead.

Roland

The AIRA Compact S-1 is a compact option that offers a different playing experience from a conventional keyboard.

  • Roland's manual describes playing with touch pads, as well as creating and playing patterns.
  • If you are used to a traditional keyboard, assess the controls and feel of the pads separately.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a polyphonic synth for a lead?

Not if you only play one note at a time. If you also want to play chords on the same instrument, compare the number of true polyphonic voices; paraphony is different.

Can I automatically record my synth's sound in my DAW using a USB connection?

No—don't assume that just because it has USB. Korg lists both USB-B and separate analogue audio outputs for the minilogue xd; ASM specifies USB-MIDI and separate stereo audio outputs for the Hydrasynth Explorer. Check the audio route for the exact model and your recording setup.

What should I check when connecting the synth?

Check the recommended power supply and the audio and MIDI connections in the manual for the exact model against your studio equipment. Don't connect an audio output as if it were a MIDI connection; check each route separately.

What can I do if my synth, bought in the Netherlands, develops a fault?

If the product is faulty, contact the seller. According to the Government of the Netherlands, there is no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands; what you could reasonably expect from the product and the cause of the fault may be relevant.

What product safety rules apply to electric synthesizers in the Netherlands?

According to Ondernemersplein, suppliers of electrical and electronic equipment must comply with the relevant European rules. For equipment that meets the requirements, the manufacturer must provide the required CE marking and EU declaration of conformity; the rules that apply depend on the equipment.