Getting the right starter synth: 5 points to consider

With over 100,000 sold in the United States in 2020 alone, synthesizers are an undeniable part of the music world. As the market continues to grow, musicians turn to synthesizers to create a sound that is uniquely theirs.

You might find jumping in right away to be intimidating, but a few synthesizers are perfect for beginners — you just have to identify which one feels right. Electronic sound modification is here to stay, and it’s never too late to find a starter synthesizer that works for you.

5 Factors to Consider Before Buying Your First Synth

Buying your first synth is an exciting time, but you can’t go in without ample knowledge. Synths come in many shapes and sizes with many different functions, so you have to know what you’re looking for, or you’ll be overwhelmed by all the choices and won’t know what’s right for you.

Study yourself and prepare to look at the options that meet your needs only. You’re searching for your first synth — you can worry about finding your perfect synth after you’ve gained more experience.

1. Budget

As with shopping for most things, keeping your budget in mind is essential. As an unspoken rule, you shouldn’t spend over $500 on your first synthesizer. While you’re learning the ropes, it might be beneficial for you to choose a cheaper synth that can still teach you what you need to know.

While using your first synth, you’ll get a better understanding of what kind of synthesizer you want to invest in for the future. You don’t have to pour your money into a high-end synthesizer if you plan on experimenting with styles and tones because your preferences are likely to change.

If you do want one of the higher-end synths as a starter, though, consider buying it used to save some money.

2. Skill Level and Learning Ability

Have you worked with synthesizers before, or will this be your first experience entirely? Your ease of learning plays a role in selecting which starter synthesizer is best for you. You should take into account how easily you learn.

If you prefer to learn as you go, you might need a different synthesizer than someone who learns visually or would prefer an uncomplicated approach to their first synth encounter.

• The Arturia Microbrute, for example, is perfect for hands-on learning. Since it’s an analog synth, it’s excellent for beginners. It’s loud and perfect for making noise and experimenting with different sounds.

• In contrast, the Korg Minilogue is a bit more complicated, as reflected in its sticker price, but it comes with pre-installed presets you can edit.

• The Behringer Neutron is the most affordable of these three. It doesn’t have a keyboard, but it does possess circuitry that allows you to replicate classic sounds.

3. Free Time to Learn

You should take into account how much time you have to learn and work with your synthesizer. If you have a full-time job, you’re likely not going to want to handle a large synthesizer in a specific place every day.

Busy people should consider purchasing a smaller synthesizer. Not only does it take up less space, but having it nearby and being able to carry it around also means you’ll be more likely to use it.

4. Analog or Digital

Often a heated topic for debate, the analog or digital dilemma poses a tough choice. Analog synths, in general, are easier to learn and pick up on, whereas digital synths have more components — typically a screen and keyboard.

If you’re unsure of which direction to go in, choose an analog synth first and see how easily it comes to you. You can always switch to a digital synthesizer once you upgrade from your starter synth.

5. Monosynth or Polysynth

Monosynth and polysynth are just terms to denote synthesizers that can play one note at a time or multiple notes at a time, respectively. While notes on a monosynth end abruptly once the following note is pressed, notes on a polysynth roll into one another in an almost lyrical way.

With more capabilities comes a higher price tag, so you should expect to pay more if you opt for a polysynth. Additionally, monosynths usually run smaller, making them the ideal size for a starter synth. If you’re planning to move on quickly from your starter synth, you may choose to go with a monosynth to save money.

Find the Best Starter Synth for Your Lifestyle

There is no single answer for which synth is best for beginners. You won’t find a one-size-fits-all synth, but if you analyze your needs and wants, you’ll find a suitable starter synthesizer. It doesn’t have to be perfect to be your first synth — just think of it as a stepping stone toward your next synthesizer and, ultimately, your musical goals.

Getting the right starter synth: 5 points to consider