Who is a synthesizer with a sequencer suitable for?

Quick rehearsal loop maker

Wants to enter a short phrase straight away, repeat it and find it again later. The input method and pattern features help determine which type of controls will suit you.

Player working with multiple parts

Wants synth and rhythm parts to play independently, or wants to use existing MIDI equipment. Compare the tracks and connections on the specific model.

Keyboard player looking for a sequencer

Wants to play a pattern on keys, while also considering the available polyphony and how much space the instrument needs.

What should you consider when choosing?

First, decide how you want to enter notes and how many separate parts you need. Then check that the instrument works with your mixer and other MIDI equipment, and fits in the space available.

What to consider What to look for Who is this important for?
Quickly enter and repeat patterns Compare step input, real-time recording and pattern storage. Roland describes the S-1 as offering both step input and real-time recording, and lists 64 patterns. If I want to enter and recall a short phrase quickly during a rehearsal, I focus on the input method. Around 36% of consumers prioritise quick pattern entry and repetition.
Multiple parts and equipment Count the synth, drum and MIDI tracks you need, then compare the ports with your setup. Novation specifies two synth tracks, four drum tracks and two MIDI tracks for the Circuit Tracks. If I want rhythm and synth parts to play independently, or want to connect other equipment, the tracks and connections are crucial. Around 29% of consumers prioritise working with multiple parts or pieces of equipment.
Playing on keys Check the number of keys, maximum polyphony and pattern length for the exact model. Korg lists 37 keys, up to four voices and a 16-step sequencer for the minilogue xd. If I want to play the phrase by hand on a keyboard, I look first at the keys and the number of notes that can play at once. Around 21% of consumers prioritise playing on keys.
Space, monitoring and power Check that the instrument fits in the available space, how it is powered and which audio output you can use. Novation lists a built-in battery for the Circuit Tracks and describes connecting it to monitors or headphones. If my rehearsal space is short on room or has limited connection options, I want to know in advance how the instrument will fit and sound there. Around 14% of consumers prioritise placement, monitoring and power.

Common buying mistakes

  • Checking only whether it has a sequencer

    Pattern length varies by model. Korg lists 16 steps for the minilogue xd, Novation lists 32 for the Circuit Tracks, and Elektron lists up to 64 steps per pattern and track for the Syntakt.

    First work out how many steps and separate tracks you actually need, then compare the specifications for the exact model.

  • Choosing a pad-based instrument when you want to play on keys

    The controls determine how you capture a phrase. The Circuit Tracks uses pads, while the minilogue xd has a keyboard.

    First choose between pad and keyboard controls, then compare the other features.

  • Assuming the instrument will work straight away with your existing setup

    Audio outputs, MIDI ports and synchronisation options vary by model and need to work with the rest of your rehearsal setup.

    Before ordering, compare the instrument’s connections with your mixer inputs and the ports on your other equipment.

Brands to consider

Novation

The Circuit Tracks range is worth considering if you want to sequence a synth phrase and a separate drum rhythm using pads.

  • According to Novation, the Circuit Tracks has two synth tracks, four sample-based drum tracks, two MIDI tracks and a 32-step sequencer.
  • Pad controls are not the same as a conventional keyboard, so check that this input method suits the way you want to play.

Korg

The minilogue xd is worth considering if you want a keyboard with a built-in sequencer.

  • Korg lists 37 keys and a 16-step polyphonic sequencer for the minilogue xd.
  • This model has a maximum polyphony of four voices; this specification does not automatically apply to other Korg synthesizers.

Elektron

The Syntakt is worth considering if separate drum, synth and MIDI patterns are part of your rehearsal setup.

  • Elektron specifies twelve tracks and up to 64 steps per pattern and track for the Syntakt.
  • These features may be more than you need for a single short synth phrase. This is a specification-based consideration, not a comparison of ease of use.

Roland

The compact S-1 is worth considering if you want to create and save a synth pattern using pads.

  • Roland lists a 64-step sequencer and storage for 64 patterns for the S-1.
  • Check for yourself whether the compact controls suit the way you want to enter patterns; the listed features do not indicate how easy it will be for you to use.

Related products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get started with a short pattern during a rehearsal?

First choose between step input and playing in real time. Novation describes pad input for the Circuit Tracks; according to Roland, the S-1 supports both step input and real-time recording. Also check how to recall a pattern on the model you choose.

Can I connect a synthesizer directly to the rehearsal mixer?

That depends on the instrument’s outputs and your mixer’s inputs. Korg lists separate L/MONO and R outputs for the minilogue xd; Novation describes connecting the Circuit Tracks to a monitor system or headphones. Check which cables are compatible with your equipment.

What if the device breaks too soon during normal use?

When you buy as a consumer in the Netherlands, your statutory guarantee rights apply alongside any manufacturer’s warranty. ACM ConsuWijzer says that if a product does not perform as you could reasonably expect under normal use, the seller must put things right free of charge. This could mean repairing or replacing it, or refunding you where appropriate. There is no single fixed statutory guarantee period for every synthesizer.

Which product safety rules apply to an electrical instrument in the Netherlands?

According to the Dutch government, sellers of electrical or electronic equipment on the Dutch market must ensure that products comply with the applicable European rules. Manufacturers must provide the relevant documentation, including an EU declaration of conformity, for a device that meets the applicable requirements. Check the documentation for the specific product.

Do I have a cooling-off period when buying online?

For a standard online consumer purchase, you will generally have a statutory cooling-off period of up to 14 days after the product is delivered, according to ACM ConsuWijzer. There are exceptions, so check which rules apply to the specific purchase.