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There’s no shortage of synthesizers out there. The choices can be overwhelming if you’re first starting out. Here are our recommendations for the best synthesizer keyboards for beginners in 2021.
Korg Minilogue (Our Pick)
The Minilogue is an incredible analog synth with a lot to offer.
The interface is straightforward, and the core sounds are fantastic. There are endless possibilities for tweaking sounds with the included filters and effects. And anytime you mess with the sounds, there’s instant musicality.
As far as we’re concerned, the Korg Minilogue is not only the best synthesizer for beginners. It’s one of the best synthesizers. Period.
Arturia MicroFreak Hybrid Synthesizer (Best Budget Synth)
The MicroFreak is one of a new breed of hybrid synthesizers. It uses digital oscillators with analog filters.
Because of its digital nature, it can produce traditional analog-style sounds. But it also has an impressive range of other sounds, including speech synthesis, plucked strings, struck objects, and others.
It has all the standard fixings a synthesizer should have: an arpeggiator, ADSR controls, and other modulation tools for sound design.
One thing to point out is this is a paraphonic synth. This means that it can play up to four notes at a time. But each tone will re-articulate when you play additional notes.
Another thing that makes this synth stand out is the keyboard. It doesn’t use traditional black and white keys like other synths. Instead, it has uses touch plates with sensors that react to your skin, giving you unique performance options.
Yamaha MX49 (Best Keyboard Workstation)
If you’re looking for a workhorse that can do almost anything, then the Yamaha MX49 is a compelling keyboard.
Loaded with Yamaha’s legendary MOTIF sound engine, this keyboard offers a massive selection of sounds, sequences, and presets that are fun to experiment and play around with.
Plus, it comes bundled with software like Cubase AI, Steinberg Prologue, and Yamaha YC-3B. There’s also a companion app for iOS that unlocks an FM synthesizer and additional effects.
If you’re a performer, composer, or enthusiast, the pre-loaded sounds and software unlock instant creativity.
Novation Bass Station II (Best Monosynth)
If you want an instrument for heavy leads and juicy basses, you’ll want a monosynth. And the Bass Station II is the synth for the job.
Novation’s Bass Station II is a powerful analog synthesizer in a compact package. The sounds are incredibly customizable, and you have all the bread-and-butter features you’d expect from any good synth.
You’ll have endless possibilities for sound design with the Bass Station.
Novation MiniNova (Best Synth w/ Vocoder)
Looking for a good vocoder? The MiniNova’s got you covered.
This stunning synth is loaded with 256 patches and includes a microphone for the onboard vocoder. If you’re looking to spice up your performances with some vocals, this is the synth for the job.
But don’t be fooled – this instrument isn’t just great for the vocoder. It’s also a practical synthesizer. Anybody can add this synth to their arsenal and get good use out of it.
Akai MPK MiniPlay (Best Portable Workstation)
While it’s not a “true” synthesizer like others on this list, it’s incredibly versatile. The sound module includes 128 sounds and 10 drum kits. The MiniPlay works as a standalone performance instrument or as a MIDI controller.
One of the best things about this synth is that it’s packed with free licenses for the following software:
- Pro Tools First
- Hybrid
- Wobble
- VIP
- MPC Essentials
- MPC Essentials Expansions (Elements of UK Dance/House/Dystopia)
If you’re just starting out with music production, this is a great all-around package.
Plus, it’s incredibly portable. So If you’re a musician who’s always on the go, this is an unbeatable option.
