Best
AFFORDABLE SYNTHESIZER
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Overall: Create songs and experiment with 100 genre-based chord sets
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Best Feature: Add arpeggios and rhythmic phrases to chords with its built-in arpeggiator - 9 styles/12 variations
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TedScore™: 7/10
Best
OVERALL
SYNTHESIZER
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Overall: Monophonic hybrid synthesizer keyboard primed for substantial bass sounds
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Best Feature: Sub-oscillator with square, sine, and narrow pulse width modulation adds rich, full, low-end
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
BEGINNER
SYNTHESIZER
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Overall: 32-key monophonic analog synthesizer based on a classic
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Best Feature: Pure analog signal path based on classic VCO, VCF, and VCA designs
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TedScore™: 8/10
Finding a quality synth that doesn’t break the bank can be a thrilling treasure hunt—especially if you find the best synth under 500!
I love the Novation Bass Station II Analog Synthesizer because it’s soooo affordable and yet has the qualities I need in a synthesizer – a MIDI keyboard, a powerful analog synth, and a sequencer all in one.
But looking for one is not easy! Like any treasure hunt, you have to figure out things before deciding.
You must decide whether a digital synth, analog synthesizer, or polyphonic synth is best for your setup. You also need to know the specific features you want, such as wavetables, an arpeggiator, and different filters. And you have to decide on a budget to accommodate all of these!
Don’t be overwhelmed. This is precisely why I created this article.
I’m thrilled to share my discovery on the best synthesizers under £/$500 because everyone deserves a chance to make beautiful music without emptying their wallet.
Popular Models and Brands
When hunting for a bargain, the synth universe offers a stellar lineup that doesn’t skimp on quality or features.
From classic names to up-and-coming producers, there’s a synth for every budget-conscious musician. Many of these models are inspired by vintage synths, offering a blend of classic and modern features.
Legendary Brands and Their Analog Synths Offerings
KORG
I absolutely love the portability and range of sounds my Korg microKORG Synthesizer offers, and the vocoder function adds a cool, vintage touch to my performances.
However, I find the small keys challenging to navigate during complex passages, and the editing matrix can be a bit of a dive when I’m trying to tweak sounds on the fly.
Korg microKORG Synthesizer with Vocoder
FEATURES: Dual-oscillator DSP synthesis engine found in Korg's critically acclaimed MS200
OTHER INFO: offers a wider selection of waveforms than almost any other modeled synthesizers
- Includes an 8-band vocoder with many advanced features
- Included 128 great-sounding presets
- Has 37 velocity-sensitive keys, MIDI in/out and thru, and can run from its power supply or 6 AA batteries
- Has a mini-key keyboard that may not be suitable for players
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
ARTURIA
Another big hitter, Arturia, presents the MicroFreak, a unique semi-modular beast that offers a rich palette of sounds and an intriguing touch keyboard.
Arturia MicroFreak Hybrid Synthesizer
FEATURES: An affordable hybrid hardware synth with wavetable and digital oscillators, analog filters, a modulation matrix
OTHER INFO: Powerful digital oscillator features a palette of unique modes such as Texturer, KarplusStrong, Harmonic OSC, and Superwave
- Massive variety of sound possibilities
- Poly-aftertouch flat "touch plate" keyboard
- May not appeal to traditionalists or those who prefer the tactile feedback of traditional keys
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
For those who adore the tactile feel of knobs and sliders, the Arturia MiniBrute 2 churns out massive monophonic sounds with its analog filter and a patch bay for that refreshing modular experience.
Arturia MiniBrute 2 Semi-modular Analog Synthesizer
FEATURES: Massive sound and hands-on playability
OTHER INFO: Has 48-point CV patch bay and KeyStep-style sequencer, perfect for on-the-fly improvisation
- Built-in sequencer and arpeggiator
- USB and MIDI input and connectivity, plus sync support for DrumBrute, Akai MPC Live, and Korg Volcas
- Can present a learning curve for those not familiar with patching and modular synthesis concepts
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
YAMAHA
I appreciate the Yamaha MX49 for its lightweight design and impressive array of Motif-derived sounds, which make it versatile for both studio work and live gigs.
However, I sometimes feel constrained by the 49-key range and wish it had more in-depth synthesis options for creating custom sounds.
Yamaha MX49 Synth/Controller
FEATURES: 49 full-size velocity-sensitive keys
OTHER INFO: Free iOS FM synthesizer app with drum loops, FX, and more
- Re-creates the sound and behavior of vintage signal processors and FX
- DAW Remote controls transport, mixer, and software instruments from the MX top panel
- Some users may find the editing and synthesis capabilities less extensive.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
ROLAND
I’ve enjoyed the Roland Aira Compact J-6’s portability and ease of use, especially for sketching ideas and adding quick chord progressions to my tracks.
But honestly, I find the sound customization options a bit limited, which sometimes leaves me wanting more control over the synth’s sonic palette.
Roland Aira Compact J-6 Chord Synths
FEATURES: Create songs and experiment with 100 genre-based chord sets
OTHER INFO: Add arpeggios and rhythmic phrases to chords with its built-in arpeggiator - 9 styles/12 variations
- Four-voice Juno-60 synth engine complete with iconic sounds
- 64 ready-to-use synth presets from the original Juno-60
- May offer less sound design flexibility
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Rising Stars in the Digital Synths Market
BEHRINGER
Among the fresh faces, Behringer is making waves with budget-friendly synths on the wallet but fierce in functionality.
The MS-1 is a true tribute to vintage mono synths, boasting a pure analog signal path and a classic 3340 VCO.
Behringer MS-1-RD Analog Synthesizer with Handgrip
FEATURES: 32-key monophonic analog synthesizer based on a classic
OTHER INFO: Pure analog signal path based on classic VCO, VCF, and VCA designs
- Guitar strap included for keytar-style performance
- Attachable hand grip included with pitch bend wheel and pitch modulation trigger
- May have concerns about the long-term durability
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
NOVATION
Novation’s offerings shouldn’t go unnoticed, with the Bass Station II having serious low-end prowess.
It’s a MIDI keyboard, a powerful analog synth, and a sequencer all in one, embodying versatility and user-friendliness.
For those of you just dipping your toes into the synth world, Novation is a solid starting point—they truly understand how important a smooth learning curve is.
Novation Bass Station II Analog Synthesizers
FEATURES: Monophonic hybrid synthesizer keyboard primed for substantial bass sounds
OTHER INFO: Sub-oscillator with square, sine, and narrow pulse width modulation adds rich, full, low-end
- Dedicated knobs and faders, and aftertouch allow for very expressive performances
- Paraphonic mode allows users to play two notes at once
- A monophonic synth that does not have a polyphonic mode.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Synth Options and Features
When it comes to choosing a synthesizer, the options can be as varied as the sounds they produce. Analog synths, like the Korg Volca Keys and Arturia Microbrute, are celebrated for their unique, warm sound and hands-on control.
These analog synthesizers often provide a tactile experience that many musicians find irreplaceable. On the flip side, digital synths open up a world of possibilities with their extensive range of sounds and features like pulse width modulation and soft synths.
They can emulate a vast array of instruments and soundscapes, making them incredibly versatile.
For those who want the best of both worlds, hybrid synths like the Novation Bass Station II offer a combination of analog and digital features. This modern classic is a powerhouse with its analog synthesis capabilities complemented by digital enhancements, making it a favorite among many musicians.
Another crucial factor to consider is the number of voices and polyphony. Monophonic synths, such as the Moog Werkstatt, are perfect for creating simple, powerful melodies.
In contrast, polyphonic synths like the Roland JU-06A allow for more complex and layered soundscapes, ideal for those looking to create rich, textured music.
When selecting a synth, also pay attention to the keyboard quality and user interface. A good keyboard with responsive keys can make a significant difference in your playing experience.
Features like a modulation matrix and MIDI input can further enhance your sound design capabilities, providing more control and flexibility in your music production.
Sound Quality and Performance
Sound quality and performance are paramount when choosing a synthesizer.
Analog synths are renowned for their warm, rich tones that can add a distinct character to your music.
Digital synths, on the other hand, offer a broad spectrum of sounds, from simple tones to intricate textures, making them incredibly versatile for various genres.
A good analog filter can significantly enhance your sound, adding depth and character. The Novation Bass Station II, for instance, is equipped with a robust analog filter that can transform your sounds, making them more dynamic and expressive.
This bass station is a testament to how analog synthesis can bring a unique flavor to your music.
For those interested in sound design, look for a synth with a wide range of features and options. The Arturia Microbrute, for example, offers a distinctive sound with its multimode filter and built-in saturation circuit, allowing for creative and experimental sound shaping.
The Moog Mavis is another excellent choice for those who prefer a straightforward, intuitive synth with a fantastic sound.
Article-Title
Summary
When I set my sights on finding the best synth under $500, I got to tinker with some very cool keyboards. Who knew this sweet spot of affordability and quality could yield such treasures?
Each synth brought a unique flavor to the table, from vintage sounds to modern twists.
Keys: Smooth action and responsive touch
Presets: Wide variety, ready to use out-of-the-box
Knobs: Manual control for real-time sound tweaking
Sequencers: For crafting complex patterns
Connectivity: MIDI, USB, and sometimes even CV/Gate
LFO: Low-Frequency Oscillator for adding modulation effects
Korg microKORG Synthesizer with Vocoder
Arturia MicroFreak Hybrid Synthesizer
Arturia MiniBrute 2 Semi-modular Analog Synthesizer
Yamaha MX49 Synth/Controller
Roland Aira Compact J-6 Chord Synths
Behringer MS-1-RD Analog Synthesizer with Handgrip
Novation Bass Station II Analog Synthesizers – my must-have!
I’m confident there’s a synth under $500 that’ll make your music-making adventures both delightful and inspiring.
If you’re in the market, grab one of these gems—they might be your new best friend in the studio!
Hold on! There’s more to see…
Having a synthesizer is one thing, but knowing how to play one is another. If you want to know more about learning the keyboards or synthesizers, you might want to check out this awesome guide!
i get why everyone’s hyped about big brands like korg and yamaha. but aren’t we missing out on the beauty of lesser-known brands that are also making some dope synths? i think the emphasis always on the ‘big names’ kinda overshadows the startups and indie makers who might be doing some really innovative stuff. wouldn’t hurt to have some light shined on them too, right?
It’s refreshing to see an article give proper dues to both legendary and uprising brands in the synth industry. Brands like KORG and Roland have paved the way, but it’s thrilling to see new players like Behringer and Novation stir up the competition. Anyone diving into synths, be it analog or digital, has a lot to be excited for. Great overview, Robert Emery!
yo robert emery, any chance you could dive deeper into behringer’s stuff? Heard they got some cool digital synths but dunno how they compare to novation. Cheers man.
Behringer has been making waves with clones of classic synths but at a much more accessible price point. They’re solid if you’re getting into synthesizers without breaking the bank. Novation, on the other hand, excels in modern digital synths that offer great versatility. Depends on what sound you’re after!
Super excited to see KORG and Arturia getting the spotlight! Their analog gears are absolute game-changers. 🎹