There’s no denying the power of the software synthesizers available these days. However, there are still benefits to creating sounds on a piece of real hardware. For this purpose, we’re checking out some of the best mono synths under $500 for leads and basslines.
Even in the age of seemingly limitless voice counts and more oscillator waveforms than emojis on a chat app, there is some appeal to playing a standalone instrument on stage or in the studio. The user experience when playing a synth and its controls live is far more spontaneous than browsing through endless patches in your DAW.
Which are the Best Mono Synths under $500?
Each synth has a slightly different approach. This may favour a certain production workflow or style of music. Some synths also offer slightly more range than others as far as sound creation possibilities go. It’s up to you to choose a go-to tool for a single purpose or a more versatile instrument.
Korg Monologue
The Monologue is more than just a scaled-down version of the Korg Minilogue. Centered around its 16-step sequencer, which is also a modulation sequencer you have a good deal more sound design capabilities than it may appear at first.
Sure, it may not have that tanky Moog-like build quality, but it still sounds like an analogue synth you’d expect to pay more for. Once you get used to the interface, you can get some great sounds when you start incorporating the harmonic drive into your workflow.
The UNO Synth Pro X is a versatile 3-oscillator desktop synth with paraphonic capabilities and it packs a wide range of sound-creation tools into a compact design.
The UNO Synth Pro X has 4 modes including legato, mono, paraphony, and bassline. Furthermore, the oscillator section features PWM, FM, sync, and ring mode, and there is a 24-mode dual state-variable filter.
In addition, the modulation section is extensive, and the 64-step pattern sequencer allows recording for up to 48 parameters.
Arturia MicroFreak
Don’t be fooled by appearances, the MicroFreak is no toy. The combination of a digital oscillator section and a variable analogue filter makes for some interesting possibilities. The touch-plate keyboard may not be designed with virtuosos in mind, but it is certainly geared for live performance.
The MicroFreak also has a 4-voice paraphonic mode with polyphonic aftertouch and plenty of modulation capabilities, so you have more possibilities than you’d get from the average mono synth.
Novation Bass Station II
Without becoming overelaborate or gimmicky, the Bass Station II continues the legacy Novation began back in 1993. The dual DCO, dual envelope architecture, allows you to quickly dive into creating your own leads and basses.
To add to the fun, there’s an arpeggiator and a 32-step pattern sequencer. This makes the Bass Station II a great choice for collaboration and connecting with other hardware, regardless of the style of music you plan on creating.
Korg MS-20 mini
Based on Korg’s single-digit answer to the Minimoog back in 1978, the MS-20 mini offers a unique semi-modular experience at an affordable price. No, it certainly isn’t high-tech by any means and the interface might seem a bit archaic compared to most other synths.
However, if you know a thing or two about analogue synthesis, you can still create anything between rude and absolutely ridiculous sounds with it. It may be slightly over $500, but it’s still one of the best options in this price range.
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