First, choose a synthesizer whose arpeggiator suits the way you want to play patterns, then check how you’ll record the sound. The Roland S-1 has a specified USB-C audio connection and a compact body; models with conventional keys or different sound controls call for a different balance of playing feel, space and recording connections.
You want to shape patterns as you play, so you need to know how the arpeggiator is started and held, and how it works with your recording session. For example, Roland says you can play the S-1’s arpeggiator using the pads, but you can’t trigger it with the built-in sequencer.
You want to record your synthesizer’s sound, so choose the connections to suit your computer and any audio interface you may have. Check for each model whether USB transfers audio, or whether you need to connect the audio output to an interface.
You share a small workspace with recording equipment, so you’ll want to consider the dimensions and whether you can listen through headphones. Also measure the space taken up by cables and controls while you’re playing.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Arpeggiator controls | Check how to activate the arpeggiator, hold notes and control patterns using an external MIDI keyboard. According to Roland, the built-in sequencer on the Roland S-1 can’t trigger the arpeggiator. | If I want to shape arpeggios as I play, I need to know which controls to use. Around 29% of consumers put arpeggio controls first. |
| Recording the sound | Check whether the USB connection transfers both audio and MIDI, or whether you need to connect the audio output to a suitable audio interface. Roland specifies USB audio and MIDI for the S-1; Novation describes USB on the Bass Station II as being for MIDI and power, and directs you to the line output for audio. | If I want to capture the sound I can hear from my synthesizer in a recording, I need to know the full connection setup in advance. Around 29% of consumers prioritise sound recording. |
| Space and listening | Measure the available workspace and check the dimensions and headphone socket of the exact model. According to Roland, the S-1 measures 188 × 106 × 36,2 mm; according to Korg, the original Korg minilogue is 500 mm wide. | If I want to use my synthesizer on a shared workspace, I need to leave room for the rest of my recording setup. Around 24% of consumers put available space first. |
| Sound and playing feel | Compare the sound generation and playing surface of the models you’re considering. The Arturia MicroFreak has a flat poly-aftertouch keyboard; the original Korg minilogue has 37 keys and four-voice analogue synthesis. | If I’m looking for a particular sound or way of playing, I need to choose keys or pads that suit it. Around 18% of consumers prioritise sound and playing feel. |
USB features vary by model. Novation describes USB on the Bass Station II as being for MIDI and power; for the audio signal, the manufacturer directs you to the line output.
Check the model-specific information to see whether USB supports audio. If it doesn’t, work out how to connect the audio output to your recording equipment.
According to Roland, the built-in sequencer on the Roland S-1 can’t trigger the arpeggiator. These functions therefore don’t automatically offer the same controls.
Decide whether you want to play in the pattern, hold it or save it as a separate sequence, then check how your chosen model handles this.
The Roland S-1’s pads and the original Korg minilogue’s 37 keys offer different playing surfaces. The minilogue’s stated width of 500 mm, according to Korg, is also worth considering for a small setup.
Measure the space with the controls, cables and recording equipment in place, and check that the playing surface suits the way you work.
These models illustrate different trade-offs in arpeggiator controls, recording connections, playing surface and space required.
The AIRA Compact S-1 is worth considering if a compact body and specified USB audio connection are important to you.
The MicroFreak is designed for compact, experimental sound creation and arpeggios.
The original minilogue suits anyone looking for conventional keys and four-voice analogue synthesis, with enough workspace to accommodate it.
The Bass Station II is an option for analogue bass and lead patterns, with a compact keyboard of conventional keys.
No. Check the USB function for each model. Roland specifies USB audio and MIDI for the S-1; Novation describes USB on the Bass Station II as being for MIDI, among other things, and directs you to the line output for audio.
According to Roland, you can play the arpeggiator using the built-in pads or an external MIDI keyboard. The built-in sequencer can’t trigger it; the manual also describes a hold function.
For eligible distance purchases from a business, there’s generally a 14-day cooling-off period; the Dutch government lists some exceptions. If a product is faulty, the seller must provide a solution under the legal guarantee, which has no fixed statutory time limit in the Netherlands.
According to the European Commission, CE marking is only mandatory when applicable harmonised EU rules require it. Check the documentation for the exact instrument and power adapter; a CE marking on its own isn’t an independent safety test.
