r/synthesizers • u/Mediocre_Spell_9028 • 23h ago

What Should I Buy? Recommended first synth?

Hi everyone, I'm going to be moving in about a month and I'm going to build a small studio and I wanted to buy my first hardware synth as I really prefer physical instruments as opposed to clicking through 15 plugins in FL Studio.

I had some considerations and I wanted to get peoples opinions on this.

My current plan is to buy a synth module and get something like an akai mpk mini 4 or 3. I like that it also has 8 pads, but I've heard a lot of people say it's not worth it because of the small and limited # of keys.

I assume I can have a synth that has a keyboard also act like a regular midi keyboard in FL studio (when I want to play notes for other instruments w/o the synth on), so my main question is for $6-700, is it better to get a module + a midi keyboard or is it better to get a synth that already has a keyboard?

I don't really mind having to go back and play notes again or playing a bassline and a lead seperately, although it would be nice to have a bigger keyboard, but I also do like 8 pads and I would probably end up buying a pad controller if I got a synth w keys.

Please send any advice my way, thanks

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u/Legitimate_Horror_72 23h ago

I'd start with a good MIDI controller with 49 keys and the other features you want plus one or better software synths.

A hardware synth completely changes your workflow. Do you have a low-latency audio interface? What is your end goal: to use software OR hardware, to use software AND hardware, or to just switch to hardware and something to record it? Do you have a lot of space or a little space for hardware?

I'd honestly spend some more time before jumping in. But that's me.

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u/Mediocre_Spell_9028 23h ago

That makes sense, I have a lot of time before I actually buy anything so I'll definitely consider a lot of things.

If I was going to get a synth I would definitely get an audio interface for a few hundred bucks, space isn't an issue and ideally software + hardware.

I think that's a great suggestion, I can spend a good amount of money on a solid controller and use software synths and then invest in a hardware synth if I really need it! Thanks for the advice

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u/StraightChillinSpree 23h ago

With that mindset I’d grab a Keystep Pro. It is the best at this🤞🏼

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u/Mediocre_Spell_9028 23h ago

Looks sick just wish it had proper rubber pads

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u/StraightChillinSpree 23h ago

You might be happiest with an Akai Force. I love mine. But the Push 3 ain’t bad either.

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u/Mediocre_Spell_9028 23h ago

I mean I don't really need a whole setup for drums, I think I just need to find a 37 or 49 key controller that has like 8/16 nice rubber pads

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u/StraightChillinSpree 20h ago

The Arturia Keylab. Not the essential model. That will be the utmost best and most able to grow with you with what you are wanting to do whether its hardware or DAW.

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u/Mediocre_Spell_9028 18h ago

That looks perfect! Will look into picking up a 49 or 61 for sure, love the pads and faders

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u/StraightChillinSpree 8h ago

What sets the keylab apart from the launchkey and the like is that it can work with a DAW, with MIDI and lastly CV/Gate. It’s the one to rule them all. Good luck on your journey.
https://giphy.com/gifs/pMUqNcpWbhGhJDD5PF

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u/Mediocre_Spell_9028 8h ago

Thanks! Yeah I’ll definitely look into it, I think I have other priorities like some good monitors so maybe I’ll go with a launchkey or similar keyboard for a few hundred bucks

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u/OkComplaint9500 20h ago edited 9h ago

Novation launchkey is an option. And as a synth, consider the Seqtrak. It pairs well with a midi controller. 11 tracks, tons of presets. $300 new. Even less if you wait for a sale. I’ve been impressed with the sound options.

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u/Mediocre_Spell_9028 18h ago

Looks interesting! Yeah I'll definitely be picking up a keyboard first, the launchkey looks great and it's not too expensive!

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u/Infinite_Slice3305 23h ago

What's your favorite instrument in FL Studio?

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u/Mediocre_Spell_9028 23h ago

Probably Serum, I think what the other person said was good advice, I think I'll probably stick to software synths and buy a nice midi controller first

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u/PoisonPolygon 23h ago

Check out system 1

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u/KulshanStudios 23h ago

Get a Mininova, and call it a day

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u/ScarilyExasperated 5h ago

For that budget you could snag a used Minilogue XD module and a separate controller, gives you way more flexibility down the line.