The Best Synthesizers for Beginners Under €500

In the exciting world of music production, regardless of the style we create, synthesizers play a fundamental role. These versatile machines can help you create unique and captivating sounds, but where should you start if you’re a beginner looking for the perfect synthesizer? In this article by GuitarRec – Online Recording Studio, we’ll guide you through the basics of synthesis, explore the differences between analog and digital synthesizers, and present seven fantastic options, all under €500 with great value for money, to kickstart your journey into sound synthesis in the best possible way.

Section 1: Understanding Synthesizers

What Is a Synthesizer?

A synthesizer is an electronic musical instrument that produces tones and sounds using electronic circuits or digital emulation. It can imitate acoustic instruments like piano, strings, or wind instruments and create entirely new synthetic sounds.

How a Synthesizer Works: Understanding Sound Synthesis

Synthesizers, whether analog or digital, from the most expensive to the most affordable, operate on fundamental principles of sound synthesis. Here’s a summarized overview of how they work:

1. Oscillator (VCO): The sound originates from an oscillator, or VCO, which generates a basic waveform, determining the pitch.
2. Filter (VCF): The signal passes through filters (VCF) that enhance or reduce certain frequency ranges, shaping the timbre of the sound. (e.g., the typical filter sweep that makes the tone sound low and then progressively rises in frequency)
3. Amplifier (VCA): The signal then goes to an amplifier (VCA) that controls the volume, adjusted by an ADSR envelope to shape how the sound evolves over time (Attack, Decay, Sustain, and Release).
4. Modulation (LFO): Many synthesizers allow modulation through low-frequency oscillators (LFOs) or envelopes, altering aspects of the sound over time, such as a tremolo effect when modulating the amplifier or a wah-wah effect when modulating the filter.
5. Mixing, Combination, and Effects: Versatility is achieved by mixing and combining multiple oscillators, filters, and components, unlocking a variety of creative sounds and possible added effects like distortion, chorus, delays, among others.

For beginners, creating sounds without presets can be challenging, but with practice and experimentation, whether using a budget synthesizer or one of the best analog models on the market, you can progress toward mastering sound synthesis and unleashing your musical creativity with one of the most rewarding instruments for experimenting in music production.

Analog vs. Digital Synthesizers

Synthesizers are divided into two main categories: analog and digital, and these differences significantly affect their operation and the sound they produce.

Analog Synthesizers (How They Work)

Analog synthesizers, which emerged in the 1960s, generate sounds by controlling voltage. This means that the amount of voltage applied to electronic components like oscillators, filters, and amplifiers determines the resulting sound. Although they produce warm and organic sounds, which makes them highly desirable, their main drawbacks are tuning instability (sensitive to temperature) and the inability to store sounds internally (though modern models may feature auto-tuning and preset saving). These limitations made them less practical as electronic music evolved.

Digital Synthesizers (How They Work)

Digital synthesizers emerged to address the need for greater polyphony and sound stability. They often emulate the classic designs of analog synthesizers. The sound is controlled by an operator through circuits or virtual stages like electronic oscillators that depend on the waveform generated rather than voltage, resulting in more stable and predictable sound.

Additionally, digital synthesizers introduced features like internal memory to store custom sounds and improved polyphony. They also enabled the sampling of real sounds, leading to realistic recreations of instruments such as pianos and guitars. Undoubtedly, they marked a turning point for musical creation in home studios and project studios.

Today, digital synthesizers are popular for their versatility and the wide range of sounds they can produce. Without a doubt, virtual instruments, VSTs, and all free and paid plugins have further expanded the soundscape by offering access to an almost infinite palette of sounds via software.

In summary, the choice between analog and digital synthesizers depends on the desired sound and the musician’s needs. Both types have their pros and cons, but ultimately, both offer a world of creative possibilities for music synthesis enthusiasts.

The 6 Best Value-for-Money Synthesizers for Beginners

1. Behringer Poly D: Your Gateway to the World of Synthesis

The Behringer Poly D is an exciting entry into the world of synthesis. With its 4-voice paraphonic capability, this synthesizer, inspired by the legendary Minimoog Model D, offers exceptional versatility for creating a wide range of sounds. Its four VCO oscillators allow you to explore tones from smooth and melodic to bold and thunderous. Moreover, its 24 dB ladder filter, typical of Moog, gives it that warm, analog character. Best of all, this synthesizer is affordable, making it an ideal choice for those starting out in synthesis.

2. Korg Volca Keys: Compact Creativity at an Affordable Price

The Korg Volca Keys is a compact gem offering a wide range of creative possibilities at an affordable price. This fully analog polyphonic synthesizer features three oscillators, a filter, an LFO, and a delay effect. Its built-in sequencer allows you to create and play patterns and melodies in real-time or step-by-step, making it an excellent learning tool for beginners. Like the other options in this article, it has MIDI, USB connections, and, of course, an output for connecting your studio headphones. Despite its compact size, the Volca Keys can generate rich and expressive sounds, making it an ideal choice for musicians seeking an authentic synthesis experience at a relatively low cost.

3. Korg MicroKorg: A Modern Classic in Powerful Compact Synthesis

The Korg MicroKorg stands out as a powerful option in a compact format. With its portable design and powerful synthesis engine, it’s a versatile tool for musicians on the go. Its built-in vocoder and recognizable presets, featured in many modern productions, make it a classic synthesizer in the relatively affordable range. Despite its size, the MicroKorg offers a wide variety of sounds thanks to its virtual oscillators, filters, and flexible modulation. Equipped with 37 velocity-sensitive keys (mini size), the MicroKorg facilitates dynamic performance, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician.

4. Korg Mininova: Powerful Synthesis in a Compact Format

The Novation Mininova might be the strongest competitor to the previous model. A compact solution with small keys and a vocoder, yet powerful for your synthesis needs. It offers a wide range of sounds, from classic to contemporary, thanks to its digital sound generator with 3 oscillators and 18 voices of polyphony. Despite its size, this synthesizer features advanced characteristics like real-time modulation, an arpeggiator, and built-in effects. Its compact design makes it ideal for musicians on the go or those with limited studio space. The Mininova is an excellent digital synthesizer in terms of value for money, allowing exploration of synthesis without compromising sound quality.

5. Arturia MicroFreak: Creative Synthesis at an Unbelievable Price

The Arturia MicroFreak is an innovative choice that combines analog and digital elements. With a versatile digital oscillator offering a wide range of synthesis modes, including granular and wavetable synthesis, the MicroFreak is a boundless source of creativity. Its pressure-sensitive capacitive keyboard provides unique expressiveness during performance. Additionally, its modulation matrix and built-in effects offer complete control over your sound. Despite its affordable price, the MicroFreak is a sonic powerhouse that inspires experimentation.

6. Novation Bass Station II: Analog Mono Synth for Less Than €500

The Novation Bass Station II is an analog mono synthesizer with 25 keys and assignable aftertouch. It offers 2 analog filters (Acid and Classic) and 2 oscillators with an additional sub-oscillator, providing a versatile sonic palette from classic to modern tones. We can confidently say that its sound is spectacular (it’s been a part of our studio for years).

With a pattern-based step sequencer and an arpeggiator, the Bass Station II is ideal for studio and stage. As its name suggests, it focuses on creating bass sounds and excels at it. The analog effects section, along with multiple connectivity options (mono and stereo outputs and inputs, MIDI and USB connections), makes it a comprehensive and versatile tool. Its full-size keys and great sound make it one of the best quality/price options for starting in the world of 100% analog synthesizers for under €500.

7. Behringer DeepMind: Analog Synthesis with a Digital Touch (just over €500)

The Behringer DeepMind combines the best of both worlds: traditional analog synthesis with a touch of digital technology. With 6 or 12-voice options, this synthesizer offers a powerful analog synthesis engine with digitally controlled oscillators (DCOs). Its resonant low-pass filter (2 or 4 poles), inspired by Roland’s iconic Juno-106, delivers warm and musical sound. Additionally, the DeepMind offers over 30 studio-quality effects (TC Electronic and Klark Teknik integrated), allowing for rich and evocative soundscapes. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for the best of both analog sound and digital versatility in a keyboard-equipped version. Truly a gem!

(Extra, over €1000): Teenage Engineering OP-1: The Synthetic Jewel for Music Professionals

When it comes to taking musical synthesis to a professional level and you’re ready to invest in quality, the Teenage Engineering OP-1 emerges as an indispensable option. Though it far exceeds the price range we’ve explored for synthesizers under €500, its innovation and versatility make it a worthy investment for music production enthusiasts. It will inspire your creative processes, such as writing songs differently or adding sampled textures to your new creations. Since its release, this sampler, synthesizer, and drum machine has been seen in the studios of the world’s best music producers.

Key Features:

1. All-in-One Synthesizer and Controller: The OP-1 combines the functionality of a synthesizer, sampler, and controller in a portable and compact device. With 8 built-in synthesizer engines, multiple effects, LFO, and unique sequencers, this instrument is a powerhouse for music creation.
2. 4-Track Tape and Mixer: Record and layer sounds on its 4-track tape. Control the pitch and speed of the tape to create unique overdubbing effects. Add textures with the equalizer and Drive on the 4-channel mixer.
3. Effortless Connectivity: When connected to your computer via USB, the OP-1 acts as a mass storage device. Drag and drop audio files directly from your computer onto the 4 tape tracks to manipulate them as you wish.
4. Portability and Battery Life: Its compact and lightweight design lets you take it anywhere. With up to 16 hours of battery life, it’s perfect for creating music without limits, even during long journeys.
5. Intuitive Interface and Color Screen: The color-coded interface is reflected on the OLED screen, making navigation and control easy. No technical experience is needed to shape your sounds.
6. Key Specifications: Includes 24 mini keys, 8 synthesis engines, a 24-voice sampler, 4-track recording, variable tape speed, built-in effects unit, USB control, and file transfer, and much more.

The Teenage Engineering OP-1 is a premium choice for serious musicians and producers seeking quality, versatility, and portability in a single device. If you’re ready to invest in your passion for musical synthesis, the OP-1 offers a world of creative possibilities.

Synthesizers: Digital Plugins vs. Physical Hardware

Exploring the World of Digital Plugins or VST Instruments

Digital plugins, also known as virtual instruments, offer a wide variety of sounds and effects, making them a convenient option for musicians seeking diversity. They are software programs that emulate synthesizers and sound effects, providing access to a vast library of sounds while saving space and money compared to physical hardware.

Digital plugins are highly versatile and relatively affordable compared to hardware synthesizers. They enable precise automation and integration within the DAW used for music production, making them ideal for electronic music production. However, both Free Virtual Instruments and professional paid options lack the tactile experience provided by physical hardware.

The Creative Charm of Physical Hardware and Keyboards

Hardware, such as analog synthesizers with or without physical keyboards (in module form), provides a unique and tactile experience. The physical connection with controls and keys can inspire creativity, allowing real-time adjustments and letting you immerse yourself in the moment without relying on a computer mouse. If you opt for a synthesizer with a keyboard, it can also serve as one of the best MIDI keyboard controllers for your home studio.

The durability of hardware and its usefulness in live performances make it a long-term investment. Some musicians choose to combine hardware and digital plugins to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Conclusion

Finding the right synthesizer as a beginner can be an exciting first step towards creating unique music. Whether you choose an analog or digital synthesizer under €500, €300, or even explore digital plugins, remember that the key lies in sound exploration and experimentation.

Additionally, if you want to learn more about sound synthesis, we recommend this Ableton tutorial: Synthesis Tutorial. This free and comprehensive resource will help you better understand the fundamentals of sound synthesis and provide you with the tools to expand your musical creativity. Oh, and if you decide on any of the synthesizers listed in this article, from the most affordable to the most expensive (we’ve included more options for the best-selling affordable synthesizers below), you’ll be guaranteed hours of fun and creativity for all your future musical projects. Enjoy the learning process!

You might be interested in: The 5 best microphones for home studio recording

Some of the Best-Selling Affordable Analog Synthesizers in 2024

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