Are you in the market looking for a new synthesizer? Are you looking to upgrade the one you currently have? If yes, you probably want to know how much it costs to buy a synth.
With so many options available, it can get very confusing. There are many different brands, all promising that their product is the best. We have simplified the process of purchasing a synthesizer for you in our article below. We will look at how much does a synth cost and the considerations you need to have in mind when choosing one.
What Determines The Price Of A Synthesizer?
The price of a synthesizer will depend on several factors, the most important being the features you need. There are very many different varieties, all bearing different features. You have the choice of basic synths, while there are those that offer multiple functionalities.
One of the most important considerations you need to have in mind is your level of expertise. For a beginner, you need a basic synthesizer so that you can first learn the ropes.
Some of the more advanced features may not serve you well at this level. You may end up paying a higher price for features you will not use. You are, therefore, better off shopping within the $500 and below range. There’re some brands that will give you all the functionality you need within the range of $250 to $500.
If you have some experience and require a few more features, you can get some fantastic synthesizers within the range of $1000. With so much competition, companies are falling over themselves in releasing better features at affordable prices. Brands such as Roland, Korg, and Arturia have products that are less than $300. However, if you have the budget, you can end up spending four-figure amounts for top range synths.
>>Recommended Synth for Beginners – Korg microKorg 37-Key Analog Modeling Synthesizer<<
- Sound Generation Method: Analog Modeling Synthesis System
- Synthesizer Program: Multi Timbral=2 (max, Split/Dual Mode)
- Voices: 4 voices. Power Supply- DC 9 V (AC adapter), or six AA alkaline batteries (sold separately)
- Arpeggiator: 6 types. Outputs: L/MONO, R, Headphones
- Compatibility : Windows - 98 Second Edition, Me, 2000 SP2, XP. Mac OS - OSX10.6.8 or later
>>Recommended Synth for Experienced Players – Roland JUNO-DS 61-Key Synth<<
- Lightweight, gig-ready instrument with pro sounds, enhanced performance features, and battery-powered operation
- Includes all the sounds from the popular JUNO-Di, plus newly updated acoustic and electric pianos, additional organs, and other stage essentials
- Wave expansion slot enables users to download new sound waveforms, available for free at Roland’s Axial website
- Sample import function for playing user WAV files on the JUNO-DS61’s keyboard
- Intuitive eight-track pattern sequencer with non-stop recording for quickly developing song ideas; USB audio/MIDI and DAW Control model
Types of Synthesizers
In your shopping expedition, you may come across different types of synthesizers. The one thing you will realize is that each brand seems to come at a particular price point.
To better understand what we are talking about, we will look at the different types of synthesizers in the market.
1. Analog Monophonic Synthesizers – Analog monophonic synthesizers are the older versions, which have been around for a very long time. They are basic instruments that have analog components and produce a single voice.
2. Analog Polyphonic Synthesizer – Analog polyphonic synthesizer gives you multiple voices without compromising on the quality of sound. You may, for example, find a four-voice synth that allows you to generator a chord by playing four distinct tones of the same synth sound at once.
3. Virtual Analogue Synthesizers – Virtual analog synthesizers give you a wide range of voices and hold the tune due to the microcomputer. You can also store presets, which makes them very convenient to use.
4. Digital Synthesizers – Digital synthesizers are relatively modern and allow you to create unique sounds due to the features they have.
5. Hybrid Synthesizer – Hybrid synthesizers are a combination of digital and analog technology. You get the benefits of the old and new with such.
6. Modular and Semi-Modular Synthesizers – Modular synthesizers are analog and contain individual components in separate units. It gives you the ability to remove or add modules as per your preference. Semi-modular synthesizers combine the best aspects of modular synths and analog monophonic synths.
Other Factors Which Will Impact On The Cost Of The Synthesizer
1. Features – When shopping, you must have a general idea of what features you want in your synth, this will play a significant role in how much you eventually pay.
2. In-Built Sequences – In-built sequences are excellent features for novices who do not have good keyboard abilities. You can complete tasks such as writing melodies while leaving your hands free to work on other things such as tweaking the sound.
3. Size – A compact synthesizer will work great if you are a novice. It doesn’t take up too much space and is portable.
4. Analog vs digital – The analog versus digital debate may not be very clear cut. Some people are of the opinion that analog synths produce a more authentic, warmer sound. They may, therefore, be a more popular option for older or more experienced players.
For others, telling the difference between the two may be quite challenging. However, the fact is that digital synthesizers do incorporate some of the best features and are becoming very popular. You however need to have some computer knowledge to really take advantage of what they have to offer.
5. Software vs Hardware Synthesizers – Hardware synthesizers are physical, electronic devices, while software exists on a computer. Sound production in the former occurs in the circuitry and can be digital or analog.
With software synths, all you need to do is download the program onto your computer, and you are good to go. Despite being digital, you can mimic analog synths with the software you use. Software synths are cheaper, and you may find some that are free online.
Hardware synthesizers give you a tangible product and may appeal to those who like more control with their instruments. Either way, it comes down to individual preference.
6. Modular vs All In One – All-in-one synths incorporate everything into one component. It is, therefore, more convenient, especially for beginners. The modular, on the other hand, allows you to go crazy with sound production. You can put together the different components to come up with a bespoke synth.
7. New Vs Second Hand – The main advantage of buying new is that you enjoy the warranty and after-sales service. Secondhand can be tricky because you are not quite sure what you could be getting. Consider the latter if you are a collector of vintage or classic synths. It will cost you quite a bit, but it should be worth it.
Final Thoughts
How Much Does a Synth Cost? There is no simple answer to that question. There are different brands and types, each bearing different features. The rule of thumb is to determine what you need, then do your research. You also need to compare prices and the features so that you get value for money.
Also Read: Top Rated Cheap Synthesizer