7 Best Synths For Beginners – 2021

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Best Synths For Beginners

Whether you are a seasoned producer or a novice, synths can be crucial to helping you create the best sound possible. The best synth for beginners will be small and compact, easy to use, compatible with the desired setup an deliver high  quality sound.  There is so little information on synths, which may make it tough for producers to find an option to suit their needs. If you are looking to revitalize your sound and believe that synths could help you out, you’ve come to the right place. This in depth h guide will help you understand all your options and help you find the best synths available for producers who are just starting out.

Product Type Price
Korg LittleBits Analog Check Price .
Teenage Engineering Po-20 Arcade synth Digital Check Price .
Novation Circuit synth Digital Check Price .
Arturia MicroBrute Analog Check Price .
Roland TB-03

 

Analog Check Price .
Korg Minilogue synth Analog Check Price .
Moog Mother-32 Analog Check Price .

 

Korg LittleBits Synthesizer

The LittleBits synth kit by Korg is a great option for you if you are only starting out. There are so many switches and knobs that come with most synths. As a beginner, it is important that you become accustomed to different aspects of this music production equipment to understand how it works. As an added benefit, the Korg LittleBits synth also offers additional functions that makes it ideal for people who are just starting out. This comprehensive synth kit will include the envelope, oscillators, sequencer, filter, mixer and speakers for a full music experience. Unlike most options, the DIY synth kit requires no additional work after purchase. It features strategically placed magnets that allow for a snap assembly, which facilitates convenient use throughout. The comprehensive manual should help you understand different aspects of using this synth kit for the ideal performance. It can even be modified for  better performance, and can be stored better thanks to the convenient and sturdy packaging that works as a holding rack.

Pros

Pros
  • Basic synth with sufficient modules for beginners
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Secure storage case can count as a rack

Cons

Cons
  • Software might be a little dated

Teenage Engineering PO-20 Arcade synth

The PO-20 Arcade synth by Teenage Engineering is a fun option by a trustworthy brand. This synth will gameify music, which may be a great way to help budding producers develop their skills. It has often been compared to making music with a Game Boy console, due to its predominantly 8-bit sound. The model presents production as animation on its LCD scree, which works to enhance the learning process. It has a smaller circuit board than other options, which may limit its ability when compared to other options. However, it will offer a great array of features that makes it worth your while. The PO-20 synth features a sequencer, as well as a selection of effects and patterns that combine well with different recording software. It can combine with other equipment by the brand for a wholesome and versatile production output.

Pros

Pros
  • Well packaged for a great learning experience
  • User friendly interface and unique style
  • Lo-fi approach suits beginners

Cons

Cons
  • Limited output compared to other models

Novation Circuit synth

The Novation Circuit synth features a sampler, drum machine and sequencer, making it the best option for building whole tracks on this list. If you are looking to make more than just a melody, as offered by the PO-20 Arcade synth, the Novation Circuit could be an ideal option for you. It will help you build tracks just like top recording software would, without the risk of distraction offered by your computer. It will work well as a learning synth as it would a sketching tool for experts. The powerful circuit offers a value for money performance. It includes multiple polyphonic synths that can do ambient pads, basslines and lead sounds. It also features multiple effects, as well as a customizable selection thanks to the customizable four drum track selection. This synth will help you learn more about the handy tool and enhance your ability to produce music.

Pros

Pros
  • Versatile and can be connected to multiple options for full production
  • Feature rich synth offers a value for money performance
  • Simple design and sturdy build

Cons

Cons
  • Small circuit may offer limited ability

Arturia MicroBrute

The Arturia MicroBrute offers a hands-on synth experience like the Korg Littlebits, even though it does not carry the same range. It is a great tool for learners, and will help them build an understanding of music production with this handy tool. The MicroBrute is small but powerful, and will deliver similar sound to much larger options. It features a variety of hands-on controls for an unheralded learning experience, allowing you to learn the basics of your synthesizer.  The MicroBrute features additional perks for added power such as the heavier sound option, unusual harmonics and modulation matrices that facilitate customization for better performance.

Pros

Pros
  • Great for learning about production
  • Easy to use and understand
  • Customizable for value added performance

Cons

Cons
  • Not the most comprehensive output

Roland TB-03

The vintage Roland Classic TB-03  is a great quality option for your first synth. This model features a distinctive and retro sound that will have your music standing a cut above the rest. The TB-03, reissued from the brand’s popular TB-303, offers a very easy to use interface, without any compromise to the quality and uniqueness of output. While it is not a completely analog reissue, this model will deliver the hallmark sound of the classic make. The TB-03 also includes modern features such as an LCD display for precision production, a USB port, a shuffle function, and overdrive and delay effects for a rich output. The TB-03 is an ideal synth for beginners because it delivers great sound, offers a variety of customization options and is very easy to use. You could be making music in no time!

Pros

Pros
  • Vintage synth with great build
  • High quality output
  • LCD display facilitates better accuracy

Cons

Cons
  • Doesn’t include a drum machine

Korg Minilogue synth

The second model by the brand, the Korg Minilogue synth is a lightweight and miniature option that is very simple. This model is one of the best synths on the market. It is very simple, and is considered a real analog model. The model can also play full chord, and features  full array of hands-on controls for easier use. This option has smaller keys, which will not affect your sequencing output too much. The smaller keys might need some getting used to, but they will be very easy to understand over time. You can even add other components for a wholesome experience. While it does not offer the full feature list of the highest end synths, it is a great option for beginners.

Pros

Pros
  • Can be connected to other kits thanks to the leading synth connector
  • Great quality all round performance
  • Easy to use and understand

Cons

Cons
  • Smaller keys might reduce efficiency

Moog Mother-32

Like other synthesizers by the brand, the Moog Mother-32 is a high end synth that is very suitable for beginners who are looking for a versatile option that will suit their needs even as they pick up music production skills. For complete beginners, this synth might be too advanced. However, if you know what you are doing or look through the detailed manual, you should be able to enjoy production in no time. The semi-modular Mother-32 will work well, whether alone or as part of a larger modular synth. It features a sequencer and in built speaker system, which means it can be expanded with the right modules.

 

Pros

Pros
  • High quality output
  • Easy to understand and use
  • Comprehensive modules

Cons

Cons
  • A bit higher priced

Everything you need to know about synthesizers

What is a synthesizer?

Synths are electronic keyboard instruments that can play a variety of sounds, which may feature both musical and non-musical tones. Synths will deliver piano sounds and guitar riffs just as well as they would honks and shots, which allow for a fully personalized output. While synths can feature similar keys to a piano, the two are not played in a similar way.

Synths need  to be connected to a speaker to amplify the sound of each key, which may be preset or adjustable depending on the specific synth. They are often used with electronic, pop and dance music production, and have become a go to instrument for many new age artistes.

How does it differ from a piano?

Synths have far fewer than the standard 88 keys of a piano. These keys will not even be full size. They can be digital or analog, and may be hybrid options as well. While pianos may also be available as digital and analog options, the digital piano is weighted to  sound almost exactly like the analog piano in terms of the playing experience. Whether digital or analog, synths usually feature a variety of pre-programmed sounds to choose from. These sounds are not limited to any specific instrument, and may even feature conversation. There are also many knobs, dials and frameworks that allow every user to develop a customized sound. While a good keyboard or digital piano will deliver specific sound, the ability to incorporate this in the electronic and dance music that synths are so popular for is rather limited.

Why are synths so heavily priced?

Many experts will point to analog synths as being better for music production. The analog circuits and variable tone signals often need to be designed individually and by hand, which can make the whole process slow. There are not too many brands with sufficient expertise on making high quality synths, either, which may contribute to the price point.  There are newer and upcoming options that are affordable, easy to use and satisfactory in terms of output. You can even download a virtual synth, available as an application for your phone. There are even mini synthesizers that are easier to produce and ideal learning tools for beginners.

What should the best synth offer?

Every music producer will have their own goals when choosing the right instruments for their sounds. With a variety of options available, choosing the right synth for your needs will similarly boil down to your preference. You will need to assess the genre and type of music you are interested in developing to ensure you can find an appropriate synth for your needs. There are many options available, each with a unique profile and range of features. If you are looking to buy your first synth, here are  some of the key features to consider.

The number of keys

Is your studio based in your home? Will you spend a lot of time moving your synth about? Even for beginners, finding the right sized synth could be crucial. A small synth could limit your options, while a larger model may be too difficult to lug around. It is important that you consider your workspace and mobility needs to help you find the right sized synth for you.

Mono– or polyphonic?

Many synths will only be able to play one sound at a time, which can be limiting. Modern music features a complex blend of different sounds, which means that an appropriate synth should offer  multiple options. However, a monophonic synth could be better suited for ambient and mellow music, which means that you should consider your genre and music identity before making this decision.

Analog or digital?

The best synths are analog. However, for beginners, some digital options will offer a sufficient learning curve and high quality output that should suffice. Before making your purchase, you should consider this impoortant aspect to help you make the right choice for your needs.

Final word

Korg LittleBits Synthesizer is the best synth for beginners. It is very easy to use, securely assembled and protected against damage. It offers a great range, and will be a great learning tool for music producers who are just starting out. This synth  is very easy to store and set up, and will facilitate other modules for a wholesome output. If you know little about synthesizers and are looking for an ideal model to help you get started, the LitteBits synth could be the right option for you.

Red
Hi, I'm Red, the Chief Editor of Red Diamond Audio.