For synth leads at low volume, first decide how you want to listen: directly through headphones, or via an audio output to a mixer or amplifier whose level you can control. Then choose the playing interface that suits your part: physical keys for a lead, a polyphonic keyboard for playing more notes at once, or pads for a compact set-up. According to Novation User Guides, the main outputs on the Novation Bass Station II remain active when you plug in headphones, so remember to check the level of any connected equipment too.
You want to practise a lead without turning up the speakers. So decide whether you’ll listen directly through headphones or route the audio through your mixer. According to Novation User Guides, the main outputs on the Bass Station II remain active when headphones are connected.
You play your lead on physical keys and want to shape the pitch, touch response or sound as you play. Compare the feel of the keys and the performance controls available on the models you’re considering.
You want to carry as little equipment as possible and are open to pads or a flat touch keyboard. The Roland S-1 uses 26 multifunctional pads, while the Arturia MicroFreak has a flat keyboard with polyphonic aftertouch, according to Roland and Arturia.
Start by considering how you’ll listen at low volume, then choose the controls and playing range that suit your lead part.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who should pay extra attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Quiet listening | Check the headphone socket and volume control, and whether the main outputs remain active when other equipment is connected. | If I want to practise quietly, I need to know which output is actually producing sound and where to adjust the level. Around 36% of consumers put quiet listening at the top of their list when buying. |
| Shaping the sound as you play | Try out whether the filter, modulation and performance controls you need are within easy reach while playing a melody. | If I want to shape my lead live, I need to be able to use the main sound controls without interrupting my playing. Around 29% of consumers put sound control at the top of their list. |
| Key feel and voices | Play your own part and check whether the keys or pads feel right, and how many notes you need to play at once. | If the keys matter to me or I want notes to overlap, I need to assess the playing layout and the available mono, paraphonic or polyphonic modes for myself. Around 21% of consumers give playability top priority. |
| Space and connections | Measure the space available and check the power supply, cables and input on your mixer or other audio equipment. | If I want to take my instrument with me or use it in a small set-up, it needs to fit the space and connections I have available. Around 14% of consumers start by considering portability and practical set-up. |
According to Novation User Guides, the main outputs on the Novation Bass Station II remain active when you plug in headphones.
Before you play, also check the level or mute setting on your mixer, amplifier or other connected equipment.
Novation lists a paraphonic mode for the Bass Station II, while Korg specifies up to four voices for the minilogue xd. These specifications are not the same as a general promise that you can play any number of notes at once.
Try playing the part you have in mind, especially if notes need to overlap, and check the mode on the exact model you’re considering.
The Roland S-1 uses pads, while the Arturia MicroFreak has a flat touch keyboard. Both feel different from conventional moving keys.
Try the controls with a lead you want to play before letting compact size make the decision for you.
The Bass Station II gives you physical keys and is particularly suited to single-note leads.
The MiniFreak has a keyboard for polyphonic playing, while the MicroFreak offers a different playing experience with its flat touch keyboard.
The minilogue xd is an option if you want physical keys and polyphonic playing.
The S-1 offers compact pad controls for anyone who doesn’t need a conventional keyboard.
Not automatically with the Novation Bass Station II: according to Novation User Guides, the main outputs remain active. So remember to check the mixer or amplifier those outputs are connected to as well.
Check the level before you start, and keep an eye on the volume and how long you listen for. Novation warns that the headphone amplifier on the Bass Station II can produce a high output level. The World Health Organization points out that both volume and exposure time affect your exposure to loud sound.
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