How to choose a synthesizer: TOP-9 best musical models
A musical synthesizer is a popular instrument that is used both for learning to play keyboards and in the professional field. A large number of similar products from various manufacturers at different prices are presented on the modern market. The main thing is to choose a quality tool in accordance with the purpose of its application. We have compiled a rating of the best musical synthesizers, about which the owners have left positive feedback.
Leading manufacturers of musical synthesizers
Many companies are engaged in the production of musical synthesizers. However, not all firms produce quality products.
The following brands occupy the leading positions in the manufacture of these tools:
- KORG. It is one of the most popular tool makers. The brand's models are in high demand all over the world. This is not surprising, since the company offers users a wide range of high-quality devices for both beginners and professionals. Models differ in functionality, excellent sound, are equipped with sensitive keys;
- Casio. This company occupies a leading position in the production of synthesizers. The brand offers tools for both hobbyists and professionals. The manufacturer is constantly improving its products, using only the most advanced technologies for their production. The company's models are characterized by clear sound, a large number of options, stylish design;
- Yamaha. Japanese manufacturer operating since 1887. Offers users high quality tools. The product line includes models for both training and concerts. Each synthesizer features clear sound and advanced features that allow you to create unique musical compositions;
- TESLER. Russian manufacturer of devices. Has been producing tools since 2014, but already competes with eminent brands. This is due to the fact that the company offers users high quality instruments with decent sounding at affordable prices.
Review of the TOP of the best models
A synthesizer is a tool that allows you to create real musical masterpieces. It is distinguished by its functionality and ease of use. Suitable for keyboard learning and professional stage training, depending on the model. The main thing is to choose a quality synthesizer. You can do this by studying our rating.
Learning Devices
This section contains the best training models.
3. Tesler KB-6190
Good quality budget model. Has a limited number of functions, but is good for training. The product is equipped with poor acoustics, so to improve the sound, it is better to purchase additional equipment. Has a training mode that helps you quickly master the instrument.
pros
- low cost;
- ease of management;
- the presence of a USB port;
- good teaching mode;
- durability;
- suitable for use in children.
Minuses
- weak built-in acoustics;
- few functions;
- unweighted uncomfortable keyboard;
- there is no pedal jack.
Users say it is a synthesizer with a good teaching mode. It can be used even by children due to its easy operation. The owners do not like the poor sound quality, the small number of options, the uncomfortable keyboard and the lack of a pedal port.
2. CASIO LK-136
Model with multiple training modes. Helps to quickly master playing the synthesizer. The product is equipped with a high-quality display with bright backlighting.It is distinguished by its simplicity of operation, so even a beginner can quickly figure it out using the tool. Suitable for teaching children.
pros
- clear sound;
- advanced functionality;
- bright backlight;
- a large number of rhythms, timbres;
- quality materials, assembly;
- the presence of several training modes for playing on the synthesizer;
- power supply from the mains and batteries;
- affordable cost.
Minuses
- it is difficult for a novice musician to understand some of the options;
- few sound settings;
- keys without tactile response.
The owners say this is a quality model with multiple training modes. They talk about the simplicity of operating the tool, so even a child can figure it out. From the negative points, they highlight the fact that it is difficult for beginners to understand how some options work, a small number of sound settings. I do not like the keys without a tactile response.
1. YAMAHA PSR-E463
A model recommended for beginners. Has a large number of timbres, accompaniments, and other features. The device is equipped with a USB connector, which allows you to connect it to a computer, smartphone for recording a song. The product has a large number of convenient control buttons.
pros
- ergonomic design;
- external attractiveness;
- high-quality screen with bright backlighting;
- a large number of options;
- power supply included;
- fixation on a rack on a thread;
- high-quality clear sound;
- ease of management;
- easily soiled case.
Minuses
- there is no microphone output;
- there are no training programs, despite the manufacturer's claims that it is a training tool;
- a small number of recording tracks.
Users say it is a tool with easy-to-use control buttons and advanced features. Allows you to record musical compositions on a flash drive, smartphone, computer. Owners dislike the lack of tutorials, even though this is a model for learning to play synthesizer, mic output, and minimal recording tracks.
Devices for hobbyists
In this segment, the best instruments have been selected for users who know how to play the synthesizer, but at an amateur level.
3. The One Light
High quality device with good sound. The instrument is equipped with 61 keys. Differs in functionality, compact size. The synthesizer works through a mobile application. This allows you to create various musical compositions, improve the playing technique.
pros
- the presence of a bright keyboard backlight;
- USB port for connecting to a computer, smartphone;
- mobility;
- there is a metronome;
- extended polyphony;
- suitable for training;
- a large number of functions.
Minuses
- control via a mobile application, so the tool is tied to a smartphone;
- lack of built-in arrangements;
- weak acoustics.
Users say it is a mobile instrument with extended polyphony. It has many functions and is suitable for learning to play the synthesizer. I do not like the control only through the mobile application, weak built-in acoustics and the lack of built-in arrangements.
2. KORG microKORG
Compact 37-key instrument. Differs in mobility, which allows you to take it with you to any event. The model does not have built-in acoustics, so an amplifier is required to increase the volume. It is characterized by ease of operation, clear sound, and a large number of different functions.
pros
- high-quality classical sound for electronic music;
- ease of management;
- external attractiveness;
- mobility;
- multifunctionality;
- a large number of sound settings;
- durability.
Minuses
- the editor does not accept modern operating systems well;
- a small, not very comfortable keyboard;
- low polyphony.
Users say that this instrument is only suitable for playing electronic music. It is lightweight, so it is convenient to take it with you to performances.Owners do not like the narrow focus of the instrument only for electronic music and a small uncomfortable keyboard.
1. Casio WK-6600
Instrument with 76 keys. Features high-quality, clear sound that can be manually adjusted using semitones. The volume is sufficient for home use, but an amplifier is required for concerts. The model has a large number of tones and various effects, which expands its functionality.
pros
- ease of management;
- a large number of options;
- suitable not only for performance, but also for composing music;
- battery power;
- reading, writing SD;
- the presence of a USB port;
- there is an output for connecting a microphone;
- high-quality sound with a large number of effects, tones;
- suitable for a child;
- stylish design.
Minuses
- some time after the start of use, the keyboard begins to make unpleasant sounds;
- weak built-in acoustics, so an amplifier is required for loud sound.
Users say that it is an instrument with convenient control and clear sound with a large number of effects, the ability to manually adjust using tones, semitones. Can be used not only at home, but also at amateur concerts. I do not like the unweighted keyboard, which starts making unpleasant sounds some time after the start of use, as well as weak acoustics, which makes it necessary to use an amplifier.
Professional models
In this section, we have selected the best synthesizers that are suitable for professional use.
3. Behringer Deep Mind 12
A model with a Wi-Fi module that allows you to control the device remotely. Equipped with plug-in pedals, high-quality informative display. Differs in extended polyphony. A large number of functions allow you to create unique musical compositions.
pros
- clear sound;
- a large number of sound settings;
- comfortable keyboard with beautiful backlighting;
- a lot of memory;
- the presence of four octaves of sound;
- the ability to change the pitch;
- durability.
Minuses
- inconvenient control system;
- lack of built-in acoustics;
- heavy weight;
- overcharge.
Users say it is a good-sounding instrument that can be tuned. The keys are comfortable, responsive with bright backlighting. The disadvantages include the lack of acoustics, an inconvenient control system and a lot of weight.
2. Yamaha PSR-E363
Model with plug-in pedals, many functions. It features high quality sound that can be customized to suit any music genre. The functionality of the tool is expanded through a connection to a smartphone or computer.
pros
- clear sound;
- simplicity of setting modes;
- extended capabilities;
- informative display;
- arpeggiator;
- the presence of a port for connecting headphones;
- comfortable full-size keys with instant response to pressing;
- many timbres, accompaniments;
- automatic period in sleep mode if the instrument is not used for half an hour;
- a light weight.
Minuses
- lack of a Pitch Band control wheel;
- no USB port, microphone output;
- unpleasant display backlight;
- easily soiled body that attracts dust.
The owners say it is a tool with advanced features and simple controls. Has a large number of different functions, comfortable keys. Users do not like the fact that the case gets dirty quickly and the absence of many ports.
1. Korg Pa 600
A handy tool of high quality. It is characterized by a large memory capacity, which allows you to record musical compositions. Differs in ease of control, high-quality clear sound. The advanced functionality of the instrument allows you to manage audio tracks.
pros
- excellent sounding timbres;
- advanced functionality;
- quality materials, assembly;
- the presence of plug-in pedals included;
- powerful built-in acoustics with a good volume reserve;
- a large number of styles, timbres;
- the guitar mode is well implemented;
- ease of management.
Minuses
- the menu is in English only;
- poorly implemented electronic music options;
- high price.
The owners say it is a multifunctional instrument with clear sound and good volume headroom. Suitable only for use by professional musicians, since it is difficult for amateurs to understand the options, especially the interface is in English only. The users also do not like the poorly realized possibilities of electronic music.
Tips and tricks for choosing music synthesizers
When choosing a synthesizer, it is recommended to consider the following points:
- the size of the keys. There are models with micro, mini and standard keys. It is better to give preference to the latter option, even for learning the game;
- number of keys. Their number is chosen, depending on the purpose of using the tool. For beginners, it is best to use the model with fewer keys. Professionals can use any option;
- polyphony. It is best to use tools with a score greater than 32;
- number of timbres, styles. The more there are, the more possibilities the tool has, but the higher its cost;
- the presence of a training mode. It is needed if the user is just learning to play the synthesizer.
A synthesizer is a tool with which you can create unique musical compositions. In our rating, you can choose a model for any purpose of application.
