10 Best Synthesizer Keyboards Compared & Reviewed

 

Best Synthesizer Keyboard Review – Top Rated Models in 2021 with Buying Guide

 

If you are looking for the best synthesizer keyboard out there, but you lack time to read what the specialists say about this topic, we’ve got you covered. After going through countless product reviews and feedback comments, we have concluded that the Korg microKorg is the product that is worth your time and money. This top-selling highly trusted unit has an integrated, 8-Band vocoder (with an included gooseneck mic) that allows the user to select an arpeggiator and add new sounds to the music being played. Additionally, the model also features 37 mini-keys, a 2-Band EQ, 3 Delay Modes, and 128 presets that can be edited whenever you consider it necessary. If the Korg microKorg is out of stock, do consider the Korg Minilogue 4-Voice as it is a reliable unit that you might also enjoy using.

 

 

Comparison Table

 

 

 

10 Best Synthesizer Keyboards (Reviews) in 2021

 

 

Because we know just how tricky finding a good synthesizer keyboard can be, we took it upon ourselves to put together a list of top-notch products that you should have on your mind before you decide what product to buy. So, read ahead and select the unit that you consider the most appropriate.

 

 

1. Korg Microkorg 37 Key Analogue Modelling Synthsizer

 

If you are interested in a highly appreciated unit that has been vetted by previous buyers, check out the Korg microKorg. This model is very compact, a reason why it is effortless to set up and carry around during performances. Moreover, the product has a simple panel that is easy to understand and operate.

This synthesizer is liked because it features no less than six types of arpeggio patterns (trigger, random, UP, ALT1/2, DOWN). Even more so, the user has the ability to adjust the resolution and the length of each note.

Additionally, this unit also includes five real-time edit knobs, three effects, external audio processing, 128 editable presets and three delay modes. The model can be used to record songs without the need of additional technological equipment. Similarly, this product can also be used when performing in front of audiences. Of course you can always go for weighted keyboards if you want more of a piano feel.

 

Pros 

Ideal for musicians interested in portability, this is a lightweight synthesizer that will provide versatility despite its compact build.

To make it easy for you to explore new sonic realms and advance your skills, the item features a simple panel and can be set up quickly. 

Thanks to the types of arpeggio patterns (trigger, random, UP, ALT1/2, DOWN) featured, you can engage in different sonic adventures and thus cover your various needs.

The synthesizer also comes with five real-time edit knobs, three effects, external audio processing, 128 editable presets, and three delay modes, which makes it ideal for a variety of musical preferences.

The unit was designed to allow users to adjust the resolution and the length of each note.

Furthermore, you can employ the synthesizer in front of audiences.

 

Cons

At least one buyer found the keyboard to be too small; otherwise, the performance delivered has been appreciated. 

Buy from Amazon.com for ($358)

 

 

 

2. Korg Minilogue 4-Voice Polyphonic Analog Synth with Presets

 

Another similar unit produced by the same manufacturer is the Minilogue 4-Voice. This model is said to be fully programmable as it features 200 program memories and no less than 100 included sounds. Because of this, the product features a voice mode that enables the buyer to configure his/her own voice in accordance with his/her needs.

The product contains a 6-step polyphonic note that is automatable and a practical motion sequencer. As a plus, this digital synthesizer sounds very well, in any circumstances.

The feature that most users have appreciated is the Oscilloscope, a nice element that adds to the overall design of the unit. The product has a very intuitive menu, and it is often described as the go-to synth if you are a beginner looking for a model that you can practice on.

Most of the product’s previous buyers were happy with their acquisition.

 

Pros

If you want to take your gigs one step further and you need a synthesizer that is flexible and powerful, this model should not go unchecked.

The product is fully programmable and comes with 200 program memories as well as 100 included sounds, which enhances your freedom to explore when using it. 

Thanks to the voice mode, you can easily configure your voice according to your needs. 

To further boost your experience, this model features a practical motion sequencer and a 6-step polyphonic note that is automatable.

The menu is highly intuitive, which makes this synthesizer an ideal option for beginners.

To pair your sonic output with cool visuals, the item sports the Oscilloscope function that will show the waveform visually.

 

Cons

Although the product sports various noteworthy features, it might fall a bit on the expensive side for a small synthesizer. 

Buy from Amazon.com for ($499.99)

 

 

 

3. MS20 Mini Korg 37 Mini Key Analog Synthesizer

 

Designed as the more compact version of the authentic MS-20, this mini model is equally powerful as the prior version. With an amazing price to value ratio, this unit is considered quite versatile thanks to its dual filters that allow the user to create interesting twists and fun sounds in general.

The product has a sturdy construction and a stable turning that you will certainly like.  Very compact and easy to transport from one place to another, this is the ideal model if you are interested in a product that is portable.

The only aspect that differentiates between the mini model and the original one is that the mini has smaller dials that are a bit more difficult to play (the little ones). However, this is not an issue that many have complained about so far.

Lastly, it is often said that the sounds produced by the unit are hard to compete with.

 

Pros

Designed to provide you with power and versatility in a compact body, this product sports features that have gathered positive feedback from the people who tried it. 

Thanks to the dual filters it comes with, you will get to explore and create a variety of cool twists and sounds and find it easy to express your sonic personality.

Besides providing the user with features that allow for sonic variety, the unit is small and easy to store and transport. 

Even if it is a compact synthesizer, the build is also stable and the product sports quality materials. 

Thanks to the headphone output, you can practice in silence whenever you don’t want to disturb the other people in your house.

The AC adapter needed is included in the package, so you can use the item right away.

 

Cons

Some users might find the dials a bit too small and that might affect one’s comfort when using it.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($516.66)

 

 

 

4. Yamaha MOXF8 Music Production Workstation

Another product that you should consider is the MOXF8, a device manufactured and designed by Yamaha. The MOXF8 stands out because of its impressive collection of sounds and samples that all music enthusiasts will certainly enjoy. This new and highly functional product was built by combing what the manufacturer calls a MOTIF XF sound engine with expandable memory and a feasible MIDI keyboard controller.

Additionally, the product features onboard sequencing, USB Audio/MIDI interfacing, a DAW / VST software bundle and extensive DAW and VST control. The model includes a performance model that can help combine different voices in order to end up with high-quality songs.

This synthesizer is extremely lightweight (it has a total weight of 15.7lbs) and, is therefore, easy to transport from one gig to another. All in all, this choice is arguably one of the most powerful workstations ever created by Yamaha.

 

Pros

Built with versatility in mind, this unit is worth adding to your list of options if what you’re interested in is exploring various nuances of your sonic personality. 

To cover many preferences and needs, the item comes with an impressive collection of sounds and samples that will help you find your sonic path with greater ease.

In order to provide its users with noteworthy performance, the workstation sports a MOTIF XF sound engine with expandable memory and a feasible MIDI keyboard controller.

Furthermore, the item boasts onboard sequencing, USB Audio/MIDI interfacing, a DAW / VST software bundle, and extensive DAW and VST control.

This model was built in such a way to make it possible for you to combine different voices and thus create high-quality songs. 

Although it features many remarkable options, the unit is compact and lightweight.

 

Cons 

Some users found the interface to be less intuitive than expected or desired. 

Buy from Amazon.com for ($1999.99)

 

 

 

5. Alesis VI25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller 

 

This MIDI keyboard features 25 full-sized, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, and it offers flexible MIDI connectivity so that you can connect it to your Mac or Windows PC and start making music on the spot. The keyboard also comes with 25 assignable buttons and 8 assignable knobs for effect plugins, filters, volume, tweaking parameters, and much more.

The 16 velocity-sensitive trigger pads are illuminated with RGB feedback, which is very useful for clip launching and beat production. The buttons and the knobs are also illuminated to give you seamless visual feedback, and this makes it easier to operate the keyboard since the visual cues will help you memorize where each button and knob lies.

Another great advantage of this option is that it comes bundled with music production software included in with your purchase. You can use either Ableton Live Lite, VI25 Editor, or Xpand!2 software to enhance the capabilities of this model.

 

Pros

The 16 velocity-sensitive RGB trigger pads will let you finger drum or launch clips with good response, and the colorful visual feedback makes it easier to use.

It is possible to expand the 25-key keyboard to the full melodic range and use it to play chords, bass lines, and melodies.

The keyboard is compatible with both Mac and Windows computers, and it is designed to integrate effortlessly and seamlessly with any music production software that you prefer to use.

It is an affordable option that’s perfect for soloing, and for this purpose alone, the 25-key construction will work great, and it won’t take a lot of desk space.

 

Cons

It has a compact design, and this requires the drum pads to be smaller and not as spaced out as on some of the other models available on the market.

Compared to its competitors, this option doesn’t come with as much software.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($179)

 

 

 

6. Roland Gaia SH-01 Synthesizer

 

One of the most price-efficient units on the market, the GAIA SH-01 model is another synthesizer that you should simply not miss out on. This product is said to consist of 3 virtual analog engines (each of them featuring a filter, an oscillator, an LFO, an envelope as well as a feasible amplifier).

By using this product, you can layer as much as five distinct effects such as flanger, low boost, delay, distortion, reverb, and many more.

The control panel of the model is easy to manage while its compact body and low weight make it great for when on the go.

This synthesizer is particularly liked by its current users because it also includes a phase recorder, a D Beam, and an arpeggiator onboard. Last but not least, this device comes provided with USB ports that you can use to connect different flash drives to it.

 

Pros

Versatility, power, and a compact build are some of the benefits you get to enjoy if you go for this product. 

The unit comes with 3 virtual analog engines and each of them includes a filter, an oscillator, an LFO, an envelope as well as a feasible amplifier, which will help you take your performance one step further.

There are various effects you can use including flanger, low boost, delay, distortion, and reverb, so you will get to explore various sonic directions and expressions.

The control panel featured is easy to use whereas the product’s dimensions and weight allow for convenient storage and transportation. 

What’s more, the item boasts a phase recorder, a D Beam, and an arpeggiator onboard.

The USB ports used will enable you to connect different flash drives to the unit.

 

Cons

Even if this model comes with noteworthy specs, some buyers might still find it to be a bit expensive.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($679.99)

 

 

 

7. Korg Krome 88 Key Music Workstation Keyboard & Synthesizer

 

What differentiates the KROME 88 from the various other models that we have talked about before is that it comes fitted with a handful of features that are normally found in more expensive units. For once, the KROME 88 includes quality piano and drum sounds that are close to the real deal. As a consequence, you will be able to create realistic, beautiful music.

As a plus, this product comes outfitted with no less than 193 sound effects, an 88 NH keyboard, an EDS-X, a touch-view display, a USB port for effortless connection and a Krome editor that allows the user to edit any songs on his/her computer.

The model’s pros are the portability, the good response to commands, and the fact that it supplies the user with good audio and a sensitive touchscreen. Still, you should know that this unit does not include a set of speakers.

 

Pros

Featuring specs usually found on more expensive models, this unit has been appreciated by many users for delivering realistic sounds. 

To provide you with a rich variety of sonic possibilities, the item comes with a great collection of programs, drum grooves, and Arp patterns, which translates into enhanced versatility.

The quality KRONOS-derived piano and drum sounds and the electric pianos won’t just deliver uncompromising quality but will also make it easier for you to explore more. It can even be an alternative to a piano for toddlers.

The intuitive interface shows various parameters at once and ensures great visibility whereas the USB port provides an effortless connection so you can easily transfer MIDI data. 

The Krome editor will allow you to edit songs on your computer and thus take your sonic creations one step closer to what you have in mind.

 

Cons

At least one user says the black keys might not be that durable, otherwise, the unit does its job as advertised.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($2310)

 

 

 

8. Korg microKorg XL-PLUS 37 Key Synthesizer Vocoder

 

Another affordable unit that you might want to check out is the Korg microKORG XL+ 37. This product comes shipped with a 16-band vocoder and an XLR gooseneck mic that you can use to record your favorite tunes. As a plus, this unit has a genre sector option that current users are appreciative of.

Likewise, if you decide to purchase this synthesizer, you should know that it has a Kaoss engine that will allow you to use a lot of effects while composing music. A highly portable Natural Touch 37 mini-keyboard is also incorporated in the design.

Among its other advanced features, we should also remind you of the product’s five edit knobs, its interactive arpeggiator (that has selectable steps), 128 editable presets and its three delay modes. The unit does not include editing software, and, as a result, you will have to invest in an interface that allows you to record an analog line level signal.

 

Pros

Composing music and expressing your personality sonically will be easier once you try out this synthesizer.

The item was built to suit a variety of needs and preferences and, therefore, comes with a Kaoss engine and many effects that will flavor your sonic outputs.

Thanks to the 16-band vocoder and the XLR gooseneck mic featured, you will be able to record your most-loved tunes.

Another feature that many users have appreciated is the genre selector option which takes versatility one level higher. 

Speaking of versatility, the item boasts 128 editable presets, three delay modes, an interactive arpeggiator with selectable steps, and five edit knobs so you can explore more.

The product is extremely portable; therefore, you can easily add it to your travel gear or carry it from one place to another. 

 

Cons

Check out the product dimensions before ordering as the keyboard proved to be too small according to a few buyers.

Click to see the price on Amazon!

 

 

 

9. Novation MiniNova Analogue Modelling Compact 37 Mini-key Synth

 

If you are in the market for a new synthesizer but you don’t want to invest a lot of money in one, check this MiniNova 37 model out. The product has a VocalTune option that you can use to actually recreate hip-hop and urban tunes as well as other techno beats and effects.

The unit’s display consists of 8 buttons that give you the option of twisting and wrapping sounds. An oversized pitch and editing knobs are also featured.

The product comes outfitted with 256 onboard sounds but you can also add 128 sounds of your own, and you can add up to 5 effects to each voice.

The model has a compact design, and you can make use of it at all times, as it is very portable. This sync has MIDI ports that you can use and you can connect the device to a larger keyboard if you want to.

 

Pros

For those of you interested in recreating hip-hop and urban tunes as well as techno beats, this synthesizer is worth adding to your list of options as it was built with such needs in mind.

Thanks to the 256 onboard sounds, you can explore and stimulate your musical creativity. 

What’s more, you can add up to 28 sounds of your own and up to 5 effects to each voice.

The product comes with an easy-to-use display that has 8 buttons you can employ to twist and wrap sounds.

The oversized pitch and editing knobs featured were designed in such a way to enhance your experience and make it easier for you to find your sonic path. 

Due to the MIDI ports employed, you can easily connect the unit to a larger keyboard if you feel like doing so.

 

Cons

According to one buyer, the instructions provided were not very helpful.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($483.99)

 

 

 

10. Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII | 25-Key Portable

 

A bestseller in this line of products, the MPK Mini is the product that you should purchase if you are in need of a cheap unit that does the job. The model has a compact keyboard that is easy to use, and that can effortlessly fit in your backpack when you are on the go.

This model can be connected to your personal computer by using a USB port. Once you connect it, you will have access to free virtual instrument packages. When ordered, the product comes provided with the new VIP3.0 music software that can help you develop great music.

The unit features eight sensitive rubber drum pads and 25 mini keyboards. Because of its plug-and-play connectivity and its lightweight design, this product is warmly recommended by current users.

By accessing the online MKII MIDI Editor, you will surely be capable of reaching your potential and create great music.

 

Pros

Ideal for musicians interested in exploring and learning more without breaking the budget, this product will help you develop great music without affecting your comfort when traveling with it.

The unit is lightweight and sports a compact keyboard; therefore, you can easily add it to your gear or carry it from one place to another. 

The item comes with the new VIP3.0 music software to help you tailor your sonic output and thanks to the USB port featured, you can easily connect it to your personal computer. 

To further spice up your sonic adventure, the product boasts 25 velocity-sensitive synth-action keys, 8 knobs, and 8 pads.

When connecting it to a computer, you will have access to free virtual instrument packages.

 

Cons

The setup process might not be that simple and the software included failed to work according to a few buyers who tried this product.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($114.44)

 

 

 

Yearly Guide & Report

 

If you are still unsure what features to look for in the best mini synthesizer keyboard, do not despair as we are here to help. After reading a handful of synthesizer keyboards reviews, and after analyzing what the specialists had to say on the subject, we have composed a comprehensive list of features that you should pay attention to in a product of this type.

Keyboard and ability to upgrade

Before you decide on a model from the myriads of those that you can find up for sale, it is essential that you consider the type of keyboard that the unit includes as well as the product’s upgradability.  To put it in simple English, the specialists often say that a synth bass keyboard should have a variety of keys that will allow the user to compose various genres of music.

If you want to find the best budget synthesizer keyboard, you should think about your needs, as in, you should determine which combination is best for you from this point of view. For example, while polyphonic units enable the user to play more notes at the same time, monophonic models can only play one note at once.

Similarly, if you want to end up with a reliable product, you should pick the unit that allows you to add more memory to it. Therefore, invest in a model with modifiable ROM/RAM and you will have more space to experiment with your new acquisition.

 

Type of synthesis and computer interface availability

Likewise, you ought to know that when shopping for the best synthesizer keyboard for beginners you should also think about the type of product that you want to use. For example, if you are interested in a unit that allows for the creation of natural sounding notes that mimic the music made by a piano, you might want to invest in a sample-playback synth.

However, if you intend to create electronic music, it is generally agreed that an analog unit is better suited than a digital one. Nonetheless, if you are not just looking for a digital synthesizer keyboard, but you want a product that can do it all, you should save some money and purchase a top-notch multiple synth engine as you will be able to use it to create all kinds of songs (regardless of the genre).

Moreover, another feature that should be on your mind is the computer interface. In other words, you should verify whether or not the model that you like has a USB interface that lets you connect it to a PC. This way, you will no longer have to invest in expensive technology to record and/or modify the audio that you create. As a plus, the latest models out there also include iOS connectivity. Consequently, you can connect the synth to your tablet/smartphone and you can save the music that you have created in the cloud and on other similar apps.

Additionally, don’t forget that some units offer the user direct access to various editing software that you might find useful in the long run. Nonetheless, if you like to experiment, it might be a good idea to buy a product that comes supplied with a sampler. A sampler allows the player to take any digital sound and integrate it into his/her (musical) creation.

If you are a beginner that is searching for a product that can be easily transported from one place to another, we recommend that you buy a portable, lightweight unit. However, you might want to know these models might be a bit difficult to play if you have particularly big hands.

 

Additional aspects that you should not ignore

Regardless of whether or not you want to buy the best cheap synthesizer keyboard or a more expensive item, you should always consider the sound quality of the device. From this perspective, some might argue that the analog models offer a smoother transition in between notes, something that digital units simply cannot provide. However, this detail is not essential in the case of electronic music players.

What is more, if you consider that a piano synthesizer keyboard is not enough for you, you might want to think about purchasing a unit that includes drum sounds. As a plus, most of these more feasible devices are not expressly more expensive than their counterparts. So, give this aspect some thought.

Furthermore, if the model that you like comes provided with a filter, you will have the means to actually remove certain frequencies from a given sound and, as a result, actively change the timbre of the sound.

Effects-wise, it is important that we remind you that almost all synthesizers, including cheap synthesizer keyboards, come outfitted with a number of built-in effects. These effects might vary from chorus to delay, reverb and so on. These effects are particularly useful if you intend to create top-of-the art electronic music.

Equally important, if you want to take your new purchase with you at the gigs that you are performing at, we strongly recommend that you settle for a unit that has a built-in microphone that you can use. A built-in speaker is also necessary if you intend to perform using your new synth.

Last but not least, we feel like it is prudent that say that all those that are new to using such models should, at least in the beginning, purchase a less expensive model. As expected, at first you won’t be knowledgeable enough to use the device to its full potential. Moreover, there is a high chance that you will actually mishandle it.

Therefore, you should, at first buy a practice unit and, later on, invest in a top-notch product that will meet your needs. However, if you are not a novice, you should purchase an item that can especially cater to your needs. Meaning, you should take the time to analyze the market and then settle on a model that allows you to use it to its maximum capacity. So, don’t waste any more time; decide on a budget and start shopping!

Why are synthesizers expensive?

If you are new to the field of synths, you probably don’t understand why some of these products are so expensive. Well, to answer this question it is vital to make you aware of the fact that synthesizers are more than just keyboards, as they enable the user to control the tone and the length of each note he/she produces.

Moreover, all analog units contain unique circuits that are created by hand by the specialists. To build such a device, one has to have extensive experience and knowledge that not many people possess. And, as a result, these items can cost a pretty penny.

Additionally, apart from the hand-designed/built circuits, most synthesizers also include additional functions and accessories that simply don’t go cheap. For instance, the more expensive a product of this kind is, the more features it has.

Still, if you are not very proficient at using a professional synthesizer, you can always purchase a less expensive model and practice on it. Once you get the hang of it, we are sure that you will understand the value of the former units and that you will be willing to invest in such a product.

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

 

Q: What is a synthesizer keyboard?

Often referred to as synth, a synthesizer is a type of electronic musical instrument that produces certain signals that can be recreated as sounds. A synth offers you the possibility of imitating a lot of instruments, from a piano which it resembles somehow, to stringed instruments, flutes, or even the human voice or natural sounds such as wind or waves.
A synthesizer is usually used with a keyboard, but it can be coupled with other instruments too. Of course, the keyboard makes it easier to use. Fingerboards, music sequencers, or other forms of instrument controllers will allow you to use a synth as well. You can find synths without controllers of their own, and these are called sound modules.
One thing to note about synths is that they don’t have a way of producing actual sounds that can be heard. Instead, they just create the signals that other devices can use to create the sound.

Q: How does a synthesizer work?

Most synthesizers nowadays are digital instruments because these are the easiest to produce, but also because digitalization offers the possibility of making things a lot more different. At first, synths started as analog devices, and they had a basic circuit board of some sort that didn’t offer that much.
Nowadays, the technology found in the circuit boards of digital synthesizers is amazing. It allows them to use certain algorithms and processes that are pre-programmed to interpret sets of binary numbers and then transform them into information that can be then played as music.
That being said, you can see that synthesizers are basically computers made to generate and manipulate sounds. They can be connected to personal computers or tablets, and that allows the music producer to store and work with the sounds on a familiar device. This is also done with the help of different software, called digital audio workstations (or DAWs).

 

Q: What is the difference between a MIDI keyboard and a keyboard?

The basic difference between a synthesizer (or a MIDI keyboard – because it produces MIDI protocols) and a keyboard is the fact that synths are used for creating your own sound or adjusting different samples in very great detail. On the other hand, keyboards have been designed to offer people that want to play them a large variety of sounds and samples that are all automated.
Furthermore, keyboards are meant to reproduce the sound of a piano first of all, and after that take care of things like reproducing other kinds of instruments. Essentially, the keyboard is a proper instrument, while the MIDI keyboard is a controller that you use to produce music in a studio.
Of course, you can still play the synthesizer, but because it’s not made specifically for that purpose, it won’t feel so good as a keyboard. Furthermore, the keys are often limited in number when it comes to synthesizers.

 

Q: What keyboards do professional musicians use?

Musicians have their own taste when it comes to music production. It’s important to note that all musicians use a type of synthesizer in some form or another, be it when they produce the music or when they go to the studio and work on their sounds there.
Live performance artists such as the late Avicii often use special synths made particularly for live experimentation and play. In April 2015 he posted a photo in his studio where he was proud of his new Moog Sub 37 Tribute Edition Analog Synthesizer. As you might expect, it’s a synth that offers you everything you need in the studio.
Avicii also used an M-Audio Keystation 88es MIDI Controller, which is popular amongst artists. The M-Audio Axiom Pro 61 Advanced 61 Key USB MIDI model is something that he used prior to getting more popular. All of these synths can be characterized by their versatility and quality.

 

Q: What are the different types of synthesizers?

Synthesizers can be split into different categories based on certain criteria. First of all, there are modular synths and their counterparts, the all-in-one synths. Because there are different parts that make a synth, you can always split that into different modules. Usually mounted in a rack, modular synths can be moved around and shaped however you want. All-in-one models are, as you expect, built in a single block covered by a single case.
Another way to differentiate synths is based on how they essentially work, and this boils down to analog and digital devices. The digital ones are newer and offer more variety, but the analog ones are the old-style and they sound generally more natural.
You can also make the distinction between monophonic and polyphonic synths. Monophonic means that the device can only create a single not at once, but nowadays most synths are polyphonic because that’s the minimum requirement.

 

 

Unavailable products

 

Novation Ultranova Nova Series Analog Modeling Synthesizer

 

This model incorporates easy to use touch-screen controls that allow the user to compose high-quality music with little to no effort. Also, the product comes fitted with a Patch Librarian software and a plug-in editor that give the user total control over the music he/she composes.

Another huge advantage of the model is its portability. In fact, one can take this model when out on a gig. The unit has a vocoder, 37 full sized keys (with three octaves) and plenty of controls that are highly intuitive and, as a result, easy to operate.

Likewise, it has been said that the model is excellent for beginners and for players with small hands that find it difficult to play on wider synthesizers. The product contains two balanced audio inputs as well as four unbalanced outputs.

Three MIDI sockets are also included in the design. Power can be supplied via USB or an adaptor.

 

Pros

Expressing your personality and idea of beauty through sounds is easier if you go for this synthesizer.

Thanks to the easy-to-use touch-screen controls, Patch Librarian software, and the plug-in editor featured, you get to compose music and enjoy total control over it. 

To further make it easy for you to create music, the product boasts a vocoder, 37 full-sized keys (with three octaves) as well as many intuitive controls. 

The item also sports two balanced audio inputs, unbalanced outputs, and three MIDI sockets and is ideal for beginners and players with small hands.

Considering its dimensions (29 x 15 x 6.5 inches) and weight (13 pounds), the item can be easily added to your gear when traveling and thus carried from one place to another. 

 

Cons

Considering the product’s dimensions, it might not be a comfortable choice for musicians with larger hands. 

 

 

Arturia MicroBrute SE Analog Synthesizer

 

Arturia is a company with a tradition for making high-quality synthesizers, so it should come as no surprise that the MicroBrute is no exception to the rule. First of all, it features the award-winning Arturia Analog Synth Sound. That means that the sound contour on this model is superior, and you can expect it to produce the sound quality you might have come to expect from this company.

You will also love for sure the step sequencer that will help you accompany your music with the background rhythm without having it swallowed. The bass power on this model is superior, and you will find that playing various genres is easy as a breeze.

It is a pocket model, so you will love its portability. Also, the audio processing is excellent, and you will find it a great deal for any recording studio or your original productions.

 

Pros

Featuring the famous Steiner Parker filter, this synthesizer is guaranteed to offer you the sound accuracy and versatility you should expect from this brand.

Even more, the company offers a free upgrade to Analog LAB 3 with your purchase so that you can use the sound backgrounds from various instruments, including organs and grand pianos.

There is a built-in step sequencer that will help you create music as you’ve always dreamed of doing, without getting lost in background rhythms and sustaining your work.

From audio processing to mixing waveforms, you will find everything on this exceptionally well-made synthesizer.

Its small size makes it ideal for anyone who values portability above other things.

 

Cons

Because this is a small synthesizer, so are the keys, and therefore hitting them may be difficult for some people; also, they appear to be a bit stiff, something that might give in with regular use.

 

 

Bibliography:

1) Are synthesizers real instruments?

2) What is a synthesizer?

3) What are the differences between a synthesizer and a keyboard?

4) korg.com