Synthesizers are magical musical instruments that have been at the heart of modern music. They shape sounds in ways traditional instruments can’t. For beginners, the vast world of synthesizers might seem overwhelming. Fear not!
The key is to find the best synthesizer for beginners that balances ease of use with the ability to grow as you learn synthesis. Whether you’re drawn to the rich, singular tones of monophonic synths or the layered complexity of digital synths, there’s a perfect starting point for everyone.
They should offer a user-friendly interface and a price range that doesn’t break the bank. It’s not just about buying a synth. It’s about finding a musical companion that inspires and grows with you on your creative journey.
Our Top Picks
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Best Innovative Synthesizer: Arturia MiniFreak
The synthesizer is here: the Arturia MiniFreak. This innovative instrument has user-friendly features and advanced sound capabilities. It’s an ideal choice for those starting their musical journey.
Its intuitive design and versatile sound options cater to both learning and creativity, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for new enthusiasts in the world of synthesis.
Specifications:
- 6-voice polyphonic hybrid synthesizer
- 37-note velocity-sensitive Slim-key keybed with aftertouch
- 22 oscillator modes across 2 sound engines
- Polyphonic analog filters and VCAs
- 1 envelope and 1 cycling envelope per voice
- 2 LFOs per voice
- Engine 2 can process Engine 1 for complex soundscapes
- Lightweight and portable design
Who Is It For?
The Arturia MiniFreak is the synthesizer who are eager to dive into the world of music creation. It’s perfect for those who want to learn synthesis without being overwhelmed by overly complex systems.
The MiniFreak’s user-friendly interface and versatile sound options make it an ideal starting point. It’s perfect for aspiring musicians and hobbyists. The MiniFreak offers a balance of simplicity and sophistication.
It’s for those interested in crafting unique soundscapes, experimenting with different musical styles, or simply exploring music-making fun. Its portability also makes it a great choice for those who want to create music on the go.
If you’re looking to buy a synth that grows with you as you develop your skills, the Arturia MiniFreak is a fantastic choice.
Best Classic Polyphonic Synthesizer: Behringer Pro-800
The synthesizer is a title that perfectly fits the Behringer Pro-800. This classic polyphonic synthesizer is a dream come true for those starting their musical journey.
With its vintage charm and modern features, it bridges the gap between the nostalgic past and the innovative future of music synthesis. It is compact and user-friendly. It is designed to inspire creativity and exploration in beginners and enthusiasts alike.
Specifications:
- Polyphony: 8-voice
- Oscillators: 16 (32.70 Hz to 8372.02 Hz across 4 ranges)
- LFO: 1 (0.08 Hz to 20 Hz)
- VCF: 1 x 4-pole low pass (24 dB/oct. slope)
- Envelopes: VCF, VCA
- Sequencer: Built-in
- Arpeggiator: Included
- Presets: Up to 400
Who Is It For?
The Behringer Pro-800 is the synthesizer who are passionate about diving into the world of analog sound. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the warmth and depth of classic synthesizers but also desire modern functionality.
Whether you’re a hobbyist looking to recreate the iconic sounds of the 80s or a budding musician eager to explore the realms of analog synthesis, the Pro-800 offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to navigate its rich features.
Its robust build and straightforward layout make it an ideal choice for educational environments, home studios, and live performances.
If you’re starting your musical journey and want a synthesizer that combines the charm of the past with the possibilities of the future, the Behringer Pro-800 is your go-to instrument.
Best for Beginners: Roland S-1 Tweak Synth
The synthesizer is here: the Roland S-1 Tweak Synth. Compact and user-friendly, it’s a gateway to the world of music creation.
With its intuitive design and versatile features, the Roland S-1 Tweak Synth is perfect for those starting their musical journey, offering a blend of classic and innovative sounds in a portable package.
Specifications:
- Type: Ultra-portable Polyphonic Machine
- Screen: 7 segments, 4 Character (LED)
- Pads: 26 x Multi-function Pads
- Presets: 64 x Patterns
- Sequencer: 64-step
- Effects: Delay, Reverb, Chorus
- Analog Inputs: 1 x 1/8″ (mix)
- Analog Outputs: 1 x 1/8″ (mix/phones)
Who Is It For?
The Roland S-1 Tweak Synth is the synthesizer. They are eager to dive into music production without feeling overwhelmed.
It’s ideal for those who value portability and ease of use. This makes it a great choice for young musicians or hobbyists looking to explore sound design and synthesis.
The intuitive user interface ensures a smooth learning curve. As a result, users can focus more on creativity and less on technical complexities.
Whether you’re crafting beats in your bedroom, performing at small venues, or just enjoying the art of creating music, the Roland S-1 Tweak Synth is a fantastic starting point.
It’s a musical instrument that opens up a world of possibilities. It encourages beginners to experiment and grow in their musical journey.
Best Versatile Synthesizer: Korg microKORG
The synthesizer might just be the Korg microKORG. This compact powerhouse is not only a favorite among newbies but also a staple in many musicians’ arsenals.
The microKORG is renowned for its ease of use, making it an ideal instrument for those eager to explore the world of synthesis without feeling overwhelmed.
Specifications:
- Polyphony: 4 voices
- Keys: 37 mini, velocity-sensitive
- Sound Engine: Analog modeling
- Controllers: Pitchbend, Mod Wheel
- Weight: 2.2 kg (lightweight)
- Dimensions: 20.63 x 9.13 x 2.76 inches
- Type: Keyboard Synthesizer with Vocoder
- Analog/Digital: Digital
Who Is It For?
The Korg microKORG is the synthesizer who are stepping into the world of music creation. It’s perfect for those who need a portable yet powerful instrument.
Whether you’re a bedroom producer, a live performer, or just someone who loves to experiment with sounds, the microKORG offers a blend of simplicity and sophistication that’s hard to beat.
Its user-friendly interface makes it ideal for those who are new to synthesizers. It allows for easy sound creation and manipulation without the complexity that can come with more advanced models.
The Korg microKORG is your go-to instrument if you’re looking for a synthesizer that offers a wide range of sounds. It covers the gamut from classic to contemporary. Learning and growing with it is easy.
It’s a gateway to the vast, exciting world of synthesis. It’s perfect for those eager to start their musical journey with a reliable, versatile synth.
Best Portable Synthesizer: Novation MiniNova
The synthesizer is a title that fits perfectly with the Novation MiniNova. This compact powerhouse packs a punch in a small frame, making it ideal for those new to the world of synthesis.
Its user-friendly interface and rich features offer a seamless introduction to creating diverse sounds. This ensures that even beginners can start crafting music like a pro.
Specifications:
- Polyphony: Up to 18 notes
- Oscillators: 3 per patch
- Filters: Multiple types
- Effects: Onboard, including reverb and delay
- Keys: 37 mini synth-action keys
- Modulation: 20 slots per patch, 66 destinations
- Power: 9V DC supply
- Dimensions: 56.0 x 25.0 x 7.5 cm
Who Is It For?
The Novation MiniNova is the synthesizer who are stepping into the world of music production and sound design. Its compact size makes it ideal for those with limited space, yet it doesn’t compromise on the range of sounds and features.
The MiniNova offers a versatile platform. It’s for bedroom producers, traveling musicians, and people who want to experiment with different musical styles. Its user-friendly interface ensures that even those new to synthesizers can navigate and utilize its features effectively.
The MiniNova is a modern classic that fits various needs and aspirations. It’s for aspiring artists and hobbyists. They want to explore modular synthesis, create unique sounds, or both.
It’s an investment that opens doors to endless musical possibilities. It’s a perfect starting point for anyone eager to dive into the world of synthesizers.
Best Analog Modeling Synthesizer: Yamaha REFACE CS
The synthesizer is a title that fits perfectly with the Yamaha REFACE CS. This compact and user-friendly synthesizer brings the legendary Yamaha sound to your fingertips.
Its intuitive design and rich features make it an ideal choice for those starting their musical journey. It offers a blend of simplicity and depth that encourages exploration and creativity.
Specifications:
- Polyphony: 8 notes
- Oscillator Types: 5 models
- Keys: 37 mini keys
- Weight: 1.9 kg (4 lbs, 3 oz)
- Power: 6 x AA batteries / DC power supply
- Connectivity: USB, MIDI, Aux Input
- Built-in Speakers: Yes
- Dimensions: 530 mm x 60 mm x 175 mm
Who Is It For?
The Yamaha REFACE CS is the synthesizer. It is for those who are eager to dive into the world of music creation without feeling overwhelmed. Its straightforward layout and intuitive controls make it a breeze for anyone to start crafting sounds, even if they’ve never touched a synthesizer before.
The compact size and battery-powered option make it perfect for on-the-go musicians or those with limited space. The REFACE CS offers a rich palette of sounds that inspire creativity.
It’s for budding producers, keyboard enthusiasts, and songwriters looking for new textures. It’s also great for educators and students. It provides a hands-on learning experience in understanding synthesis.
In short, if you’re looking for a synthesizer that’s easy to use, portable, and packed with quality sounds, the Yamaha REFACE CS is an excellent choice.
Best Semi-Modular Synthesizer: Cre8audio East Beast
The synthesizer just got a new contender: the Cre8audio East Beast. This semi-modular synthesizer is a dream come true for those starting their musical journey.
Compact, intuitive, and packed with features, it’s designed to spark creativity and make learning synthesis an exciting adventure. Its approachable design ensures that even beginners can start crafting unique sounds right out of the box.
Specifications:
- Type: Semi-Modular Analog Synthesizer
- Polyphony: Monophonic
- Oscillators: 1 x Analog VCO
- Waveforms: Sawtooth, Square, Sine, Triangle; PWM, FM
- Envelope Generator: 1 x ADSR
- LFO: 1 x LFO
- Keys: 13 x Key Buttons
- Eurorack Compatible: Yes
Who Is It For?
The Cre8audio East Beast is the synthesizer who are eager to dive into the world of sound synthesis without feeling overwhelmed. It’s perfect for those who value simplicity and hands-on learning.
Its monophonic setup makes it ideal for crafting singular, powerful sounds. This makes it a great tool for learning the basics of waveform manipulation and signal flow.
Its compact size and Eurorack compatibility mean it’s not just for beginners. Even seasoned synth enthusiasts looking for a portable, versatile addition to their setup will find it appealing.
The East Beast offers a straightforward yet richly rewarding experience. It’s for hobbyists wanting to explore sound design. It’s also for budding musicians crafting their first tracks.
Best Sound Design: Korg Minilogue
The synthesizer just got better with the Korg Minilogue. This compact, yet powerful synth is a modern classic in the world of musical instruments, offering a unique blend of analog warmth and digital versatility.
The Minilogue is perfect for those starting their sound design journey. It is user-friendly, yet packed with enough features to keep you engaged as you grow.
Specifications:
- Keyboard: 37 slim, velocity-sensitive keys
- Polyphony: 4 voices
- Programs: 200 presets (100 factory, 100 user)
- Sequencer: 16-step with motion recording
- Oscillators: 2 VCOs per voice
- Filters: 1 VCF (Variable Filter)
- Effects: Onboard delay
- Weight: 2.8 kg / 6.17 lbs
Who Is It For?
The Korg Minilogue is the synthesizer who are eager to dive into the world of sound design. Its intuitive user interface makes it a great starting point for those new to synthesis. It allows easy exploration of its rich sonic capabilities.
From aspiring musicians looking to craft unique sounds, to hobbyists wanting to add a modern classic to their collection, the Minilogue is an ideal choice. Its compact design and affordable price range make it accessible.
Its robust features offer enough depth to satisfy the creative urges of more experienced users. Whether you’re crafting melodies, designing basslines, or experimenting with ambient textures, the Minilogue is a versatile and inspiring musical companion.
Best for Advanced Users: ASM Hydrasynth
ASM Hydrasynth is a powerhouse of innovation and versatility, packed into a sleek design. It’s perfect for those who have mastered the basics and are ready to dive into deep sound exploration and synthesis.
Specifications:
- Polyphony: 8 Notes
- Sound Engine: Wavetable Synthesis
- Keys: 49 Full-size, Synth Action
- Aftertouch: Polyphonic Aftertouch
- Controllers: Pitchbend, Mod Wheel, Multi-function Ribbon Strip
- Mod Matrix: 32-slot
- Effects: High-quality onboard effects
- Connectivity: CV/Gate Inputs and Outputs, MIDI In/Out/Thru
Who Is It For?
The ASM Hydrasynth is not just any musical instrument; it’s a dream for those who breathe and live synthesis. It’s ideal for the seasoned synthesist who craves depth in sound design. They enjoy the intricacies of a sophisticated user interface.
This synthesizer is a modern classic. It offers unparalleled control and flexibility. It’s perfect for studio wizards and live performers alike. It’s not the starting point for a novice; rather, it’s where experienced hands meet the future of music creation.
If you’re ready to buy a synth that challenges and rewards in equal measure, the ASM Hydrasynth is your calling.
What is a synthesizer used for?
A synthesizer is an electronic instrument that generates a wide range of sounds, from musical notes to complex sound effects. It’s perfect for anyone, especially if you’re considering buying one.
Synthesizers shape and create sounds using various methods like subtractive synthesis, where filters remove certain frequencies. They are versatile, used in different music genres, and offer endless creative possibilities.
If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly option, researching the synthesizer is a great start. It’ll help you find an instrument that’s easy to use, yet capable of producing a wide variety of sounds.
Are synthesizers easy to learn?
Beginners should consider starting with a user-friendly model. Look for the synthesizer, which typically comes with simpler interfaces and helpful learning resources.
Starting with these instruments helps you understand the basics of sound synthesis without feeling overwhelmed. As you practice and experiment, you’ll find that synthesizers are enjoyable and rewarding to learn, offering a world of creative possibilities.
Should I get a keyboard or a synthesizer?
Choosing between a keyboard and a synthesizer depends on what you’re looking for in a musical instrument.
Keyboards are great for those who want a wide range of pre-set sounds and the ability to play traditionally like a piano. They’re user-friendly and suitable for beginners.
On the other hand, if you’re intrigued by creating and manipulating sounds, a synthesizer is the way to go. Synthesizers offer more creative control and are ideal for sound exploration and music production.
For beginners, it’s wise to start with the synthesizer, which balances ease of use with the versatility of sound creation.
What I Wish I Knew Before I Got The Synthesizer?
- Research: Before making a purchase, read up on the synthesizer to find an option that suits your learning style and musical goals.
- Understanding the basics: Familiarize yourself with basic synthesizer concepts like oscillators, filters, and envelopes.
- Practice regularly: Regular practice is crucial for mastering any instrument, including synthesizers.
- Patience is important: Learning synthesis can be complex, so patience and perseverance are essential.
- Explore and experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different sounds and settings to discover your unique style.
