The best synthesizers

The synthesizer is not the last among musical instruments; this device makes it easy to create electronic and classical music. Some can even replace a drum kit, organ or accordion if options are available. The design, functionality, keyboard and the number of possible sound options for modern models are quite diverse, they can also be equipped with various types of keyboards, training systems and interfaces for connecting peripherals. In this rating, only the best synthesizers that have earned the attention of users and experts are considered.

Which synthesizer is better to choose

Manufacturers from Japan, which produce electronic musical instruments of various types and sizes, deserve special popularity. Some buyers give preference to Russian brands that manufacture synthesizers of the same quality for home use and for professional use. The TOP contains a brief description of each manufacturer:

• Akai Is the oldest trademark from Japan, registered in 1929, producing electronics, household appliances and musical instruments. The production facilities of Akai are located in Russia, and the brand itself belongs to the middle price segment.
• Casio Is a Japanese company founded in 1946 that produces consumer electronics. It offers a large selection of various products, sells them almost all over the world, and popular actors and musicians have become brand ambassadors.
• The one light Is a US brand that produces electronic musical instruments. The company is relatively young, but it is developing rapidly, releasing smart synthesizers with an intelligent control system.
• Medeli Is another Japanese company, registered in 1983, which has a large manufacturing capacity. Medeli annually produces more than 150,000 musical instruments and accessories.
• Korg - a manufacturer of equipment for a recording studio and electric musical instruments, registered in 1962. At the same time, the company produces accessories, becoming a developer of special computer programs for creating music.
• Yamaha Is another popular Japanese brand that manufactures audio equipment. Yamaha also produces acoustic systems, sports equipment, motorcycles, premium scooters, and it is considered one of the best.
• Behringer - a well-known trademark from Germany created in 1989, which produces sound equipment. The company has manufacturing facilities in China, where it assembles tools using its own patented technology.
• Denn dek Is a brand from Russia that has been producing portable devices and electronics since 2005. It also produces goods for children, components, accessories, offering goods at low prices.
• Sonata Is a Russian trade mark that produces a series of musical instruments for children over 35 years old. It is quite popular, has a large assortment of synthesizers and other musical equipment.

Synthesizer rating

The rating was compiled by experts who rated the nominated candidates. Testing was also carried out to identify the pros and cons of musical equipment. To compile more complete, meaningful reviews, users are involved, whose opinion is also taken into account.The following criteria are taken as a basis:

• Build quality;
• Sound quality;
• Number of keys;
• Functional;
• Sound customization options;
• The ability to connect peripherals;
• The convenience of use;
• Interface;
• Price.

A detailed study of these characteristics made it possible to compose informative descriptions for each submitted nominee. Thanks to independent expertise, only the best synthesizers that are presented in stores in 2024 got into the TOP.

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Best Synthesizers for Beginners

Instruments from this category are presented for beginner musicians or those who have no experience at all. Such synthesizers are quite simple, have modest functionality and a relatively low price, which allows customers to choose almost any model. In this group, four inexpensive synthesizers for beginners are presented, which became the best and were chosen from among a dozen applicants.

Akai Mpk Mini Play

This compact technological keyboard has a fairly large functionality that allows you to use the device as a full-fledged synthesizer. Akai Mpk features 25 keys, trackpad, knobs and buttons for additional customization. The controller has four sensitive RGB pads that expand your music production possibilities. Stereo outputs are provided for connecting headphones or speakers, plus you can connect the system to a PC via a USB adapter that is included in the kit. Experts also refer to the advantages of this model as an autonomous operation mode - Mini Play is able to operate on batteries for several hours.

Advantages

• A large number of timbres;
• Built-in acoustic sound;
• Pitch bend controller;
• Modulation controller;
• Possibility of connecting pedals.

disadvantages

• Small-sized keyboard;
• High price.

Also, this model is equipped with a small OLED display, which displays the set parameters. Plus, with the Akai Mpk, you can use drums or other instruments to perform complex compositions.

Casio CTK-2500

An unremarkable but very functional model from the Japanese manufacturer Casio. The synthesizer is equipped with 61 full-size keys, has a built-in speaker system and 60 melodies for training musicians. You can easily create electronic music with this instrument by using bass, different Voices, rhythms or drum parts. As in the previous model, the SEL-2500 provides the ability to connect headphones, pedals, plus it can work in stand-alone mode. To create music, you can also use the original free application, which is available on Android / IOS devices.

Advantages

• Piano keyboard;
• Polyphony mode for more than 40 voices;
• Reverberation;
• Auto accompaniment;
• Right and left hand training option.

disadvantages

• English interface;
• The keys are not sensitive.

The memory of this device is designed for approximately 30 songs, which allows you to record or compare different melodies. In the reviews, users note a good loud sound and soft key travel with pleasant resistance.

The one light

This learning synthesizer is designed for both hobbyists and newcomers to the music world. The instrument is equipped with 61 sensitive keys, has a compact small body and is available in two colors. Users refer to the advantages of the model as the ability to work together with Android / iOS through an application. Thanks to this, you can create hundreds of different compositions, learn in a playful way or master a new technique, developing an ear for music and getting independent assessments of the system. Also, together with other users, you can arrange competitions, or play in an ensemble.

Advantages

• Bright keyboard backlight;
• USB interface for connecting to a PC;
• Metronome;
• Transpose;
• Polyphony for 128 voices.

disadvantages

• No built-in arrangements;
• Quiet speakers.

Experts point out that the weight of this synthesizer is quite heavy, so it is inconvenient for transportation. It is also noted that despite the two large speakers, the sound of The One Light is relatively quiet, but it is possible to connect a separate speaker.

Medeli M311

A compact semi-professional synthesizer from Medeli is suitable not only for beginners, but also for amateurs. It has 32 built-in polyphonic melodies, responsive full-size keys and 320 voices, which is not bad for an entry-level instrument. The synthesizer is equipped with built-in memory for 10 songs, you can also connect headphones, microphone or pedals. It is possible to connect to a computer via the USB interface, which will significantly expand the capabilities of the device, and the autonomous power mode will allow you not to be tied to an outlet. Plus, the M311 has a training mode.

Advantages

• Bright informative display;
• Good build quality
• Loud speakers;
• Built-in speaker system;
• Relatively low price.

disadvantages

• Speaker hiss a little in quiet mode;
• The last octave sounds are cut off.

This model features over 100 styles of auto accompaniment, a transpose function, and a metronome to help you determine the tempo of your playing.

The best synthesizers for professionals

Especially for professionals, they develop high-quality tools that have great functionality and wide capabilities. The build quality in such synthesizers is excellent, and the bundle may include additions in the form of a microphone or headphones. In this category, the experts reviewed three nominees who made it to the TOP due to their quality.

Korg Pa 600

This professional synthesizer is compact in size. It has 61 full-size keys, built-in quarter-tone temperament, and a wide color touchscreen. Also, the advantages of this instrument include a large amount of factory and user PCM memory, which will allow you to record independent works. Enhanced soundtracks bring sound to life as close to realism as possible, with dual-lever and 4-way joystick control. This model allows you to copy, delete, cut or correct audio tracks, thanks to its great functionality. Custom sounds can also be added.

Advantages

• Plug-in optional pedals included;
• High power built-in amplifier;
• Above 350 Factory Styles;
• Advanced Guitar Mode
• More than 900 tones.

disadvantages

• All possibilities of electronic music are not disclosed;
• The interface is in English.

Users who used the Korg Pa 600 for the first time noted that it was quite difficult to get used to such a large functionality and figure it out, especially since the entire system interface is built in English.

Yamaha PSR-E363

This nominee is no less optional than the previous one, it also has 61 full-size touch keys, a large number of voices and plug-in pedals. With advanced EQ and Reverb effects, you can easily change the sound to play any genre of music in your chosen surround sound. An arpeggiator with more than 150 styles will help you play a passage with just one key press, you just need to set the desired key. Also, this model connects to a PC or smartphone, where with the help of applications you can expand the already huge functionality of Yamaha.

Advantages

• Separate keyboard;
• Support for bi-directional transfer of MIDI / audio files;
• Melody suppression option;
• Flexible setting of modes;
• Informative wide display.

disadvantages

• There is no separation of their styles;
• There is no microphone jack.

This model has a learning function that guides you step by step on how to use the tool correctly. There is also a special application with a collection of sheet music and popular compositions.

Behringer Deep Mind 12

The Behringer synthesizer is equipped with a built-in Wi-Fi module, with which you can remotely control the device.This nominee, like the previous ones, has a full-size keyboard, plug-in pedals, a small display that shows information about the parameters. 12-voice polyphony allows you to combine voices in any sequence, from choral singing to singles. More than 30 algorithms of the sound system help to create unique melodies, and special sound filters will correct it. Also in Deep Mind 12 there is an arpeggiator and a reverb mode.

Advantages

• Flexible modulation matrix;
• Large amount of correcting memory;
• Four octaves of sound;
• Pitch bend controller;
• Modulation controller.

disadvantages

• Large weight;
• There is no built-in acoustics.

Separately, it should be noted the semi-weighted keyboard with a certain recoil, which makes playing the instrument quite comfortable.

The best kids synthesizers

Synthesizers for children have a smaller keyboard, a more modest set of functions and effects. They are compact enough to have fun, bright colors and a learning option that helps a child learn the instrument. When asked which synthesizer is better for a child, experts answer ambiguously and in our rating they represent three models that have received the highest marks.

Denn Dek 61 mini

This is a compact and functional synthesizer for children with a learning option. It has 61 small keys, a small display and 4 built-in polyphonic melodies. You can connect a microphone or headphones to Denn Dek, but the device works only from the mains, there is no USB output. There is also auto accompaniment for 10 styles, it is possible to record songs and 16 tones, which allows you to use the instrument to develop musical abilities. Controlling the model is simple, and users note that children quickly learn to play this synthesizer.

Advantages

• Built-in speaker system;
• Layering function;
• Loud noise;
• Low weight;
• Low price.

disadvantages

• Not a good build;
• The speakers sizzle, even in quiet mode.

The device is not capable of remembering volume settings, which many buyers also attribute to disadvantages. However, the low price and good sounding make this model one of the most popular among children's synthesizers.

Casio SA-77

The Casio is more optional than the previous model, it also has a learning mode, it can run on batteries, plus it comes with 50 auto accompaniment styles. The SA-77 has a button to switch between piano and organ sounds, 10 built-in learning tunes to help your child learn the instrument faster. 8-note polyphony and 100 built-in tones allow you to create your own melodies or even add percussive sounds to them. A small display is provided that shows the stave or set parameters. There is also an output for connecting headphones, and if you additionally buy an adapter, you can connect a device to operate on the network.

Advantages

• Interesting retro design;
• Melody mute function;
• Built-in speaker system;
• Good amplifier power;
• The keyboard is adapted for a child's hand.

disadvantages

• There is no USB connector;
• The microphone cannot be connected.

The disadvantages of buyers include a relatively high price for such a low-power model. However, the reviews for the Casio SA-77 synthesizer are quite flattering, and its build quality is very reliable.

Sonata SA-5401

The sonata is a fairly high-quality instrument that is suitable not only for children, but also for novice musicians. It has a small-sized keyboard with 54 keys, it is powered by mains or batteries, and the device interface is completely Russified. The set includes a microphone that is connected via a line-in. A built-in speaker system allows you to play the instrument simply by plugging it in. The number of voices is one hundred, among which there are classical and non-orchestral instruments, and the auto accompaniment is also designed for one hundred styles, which helps to create different rhythms. There are also 10 demo sounds in the instrument program.

Advantages

• Bright LCD display;
• The ability to record music;
• Good, clear sound even at full volume;
• Tempo and volume control;
• Low price.

disadvantages

• The plastic buttons are very tough;
• No polyphony.

Meanwhile, the price for this children's synthesizer with a microphone is quite modest, which is positively noted by users. This is one of the best models of children's synthesizers available in stores today.

Which synthesizer is better to buy

The question of how to choose a synthesizer is faced by many buyers, especially those who want to purchase this instrument for the first time. Experts point out that before buying, you need to pay attention to some parameters of the device, which will tell you about its quality. So, first of all, it is worth studying the keyboard, which can create the effect of a piano, or vice versa, the keys will not offer resistance, as when typing on a computer. The number of sound effects and the presence of controllers will allow you to improve melodies or create new compositions. The ability to connect peripherals (microphone, headphones, pedals) will reveal more capabilities of the selected device. And the power of the built-in amplifier will determine the volume of the instrument sound. Analyzing the presented models, experts recommend considering the following:

• Novice musicians can take a closer look at the Casio CTK-2500. This synthesizer has a piano-type keyboard, can work in stand-alone mode, and is equipped with a two-handed learning option.
• From the same category, it is worth highlighting the Medeli M311 model with built-in acoustics. It has a bright, informative display, 320 built-in tones, good build quality, plus it is relatively inexpensive.
• For professional musicians, the Behringer Deep Mind 12 is a four-octave choice. It is equipped with a built-in Wi-Fi module, a full-size keyboard, and a large number of sound effects.
• For young children, experts recommend looking at the compact Denn Dek 61 mini. This synthesizer is quite functional, it has auto accompaniment for 10 styles, it is possible to record songs.
• And for older children, you can pay attention to the inexpensive Sonata SA-5401. It runs on mains or batteries, has a Russified interface and loud, clear sound.

The rest of the models in the ranking also deserve the attention of readers. They are no less functional, have their own advantages and have earned high marks from experts.