6 Best Synths Under $500 to Enhance Your Music Skills

Fact Checked Yoke Wong
Yoke Wong
Review by Yoke Wong
Expert Consultant
Yoke Wong is a talented pianist and piano teacher, author of online piano courses Pianomother.com, founder of Harmony and Melody Studio.
Updated 08-08-2023
Updated 08-08-2023
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For many first-time and second-time buyers, purchasing the best synth under $500 seems like an uphill task. You may have to sift through dozens of options, which can be daunting, especially if you don’t know what you’re looking for. However, we can provide a helping hand and guide you through what you need to know to make a better purchase.

Our Top Choices

#Editor’s Choice
"An analog monosynth featuring 25 velocity sensitive slim keys, two oscillators and two-pole filter. AD envelope. One LFO. 16-step sequencer."
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"An analog monosynth featuring 25 keys with synth action and aftertouch, two oscillators, three sub-osscillators and two filters. Noise generator. Step sequencer with 32 rhythmic patterns. ADSR envelope."
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"An analog monosynth featuring 25 velocity and pressure-sensitive keys, two oscillators and Steiner Parker filter. ADSR and AD envelopes. 8 step-sequences. Two LFO."
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As you can see below, we’ve listed and reviewed six of the best synths at this price range. In this list, both the rank and the ratings were given depending on the features, which provided us with a look into their capabilities. The sound engine, for instance, is what dictates how sounds are produced. The audio quality is another feature that should factor in your synth purchase. After all, you do want good sounding music. Next, we have the polyphony, connectivity, keyboard, and the controls, all of which can dictate how you create music with your synth. Lastly, for some of you looking to buy the best synth under $500, portability is essential. As such, it’s also part of our selection criteria. You can keep reading if you want to find out more about our top six and the reasons why they made the cut.

Top 6 Synths Under $500 Review 2024

1
Editor’s Choice
Korg Synthesizer, 25 Key (MONOLOGUEBK)
9,7
Site Rank
Features
  • Sound engine: analog
  • Polyphony: mono
  • Keyboard: 25 slim keys, velocity-sensitive
  • Oscillators: 2x VCO (square, triangle, sawtooth), 1 x LFO
  • Filter: two-pole VCF
  • Envelope generator: AD
  • Effects: Analog Drive distortion
  • Sequencer: 16-step
  • Connectivity: MIDI I/O, 1/4″ Audio I/O, ¼” headphones, USB type B, 2x 1/8″ Sync I/O
Korg Synthesizer, 25 Key (MONOLOGUEBK)
Good
Bad
    Good
  • We liked that the Korg Monologue pick is an analog synth. It is portable, reasonably affordable, and still has room for a velocity-sensitive 25-key setup. The sounds produced by this mini device seem to have impressed most of the previous buyers. Also, the design of the synth is easy enough to use, even for newbies.

    Bad
  • The keys in the keyboard are not full-size. The power supply is not included. Also, the manual seems to leave more questions than answers.

As the starting point for our lineup of top synths under $500, the Korg Monologue has many features that you could deem praiseworthy. Notably, the synth uses an analog sound engine. As such, if you’re one for warmer sounds, then this product works just fine.

Additionally, this device can also be termed as a monosynth in terms of polyphony. Consequently, the tool may not allow you to play multiple notes at the same time. However, this can sometimes be good for your sound as it comes through larger and fuller.

As you can see, this is a mini synth where portability has been highly prioritized. Consequently, you won’t get the 88-key setup that people performing on stage are likely to be using. Instead, you get 25 keys in the keyboard setup. On the downside, these keys are slim, while on the upside, they are velocity-sensitive.

The oscillators in this analog synth are nothing to scoff at either. They come in a pair and have no problem producing square, sawtooth, and triangle waveforms. In addition to that, there’s a two-pole VCF filter, which can be quite versatile. This can be paired with the analog drive distortion effect in the machine to vary your sound some more.

Another area where you get tons of value for such an affordable synth is the connectivity. For beginners and newbies, the connectivity options should be more than enough as you start.

Also, there is the element of the 100 preset locations included in the machine. Remember that you have a 16-step sequencer as well, so once you figure out how to work it, filling in those preset slots will be a piece of cake.

Also Product Ranking:
2
Novation Bass Station II
9,5
Site Rank
Features
  • Sound engine: analog
  • Polyphony: mono
  • Keyboard:25 keys with synth action and aftertouch
  • Oscillator: Osc1, Osc 2, 3x Sub-oscillators, Noise generator, 2x LFO
  • Filter: Classic (LPF, HPF, BPF modes), Acid
  • Envelope generator: 2x ADSR
  • Effects: Distortion, Oscillator FM
  • Sequencer: step sequencer with 32 rhythmic patterns
  • Connectivity: 1x TRS Audio In, 2x TRS Audio Out, 1/4” headphones, USB type B, MIDI In/Out/Thru/USB, 1x Sustain pedal
Novation Bass Station II
Good
Bad
    Good
  • The keys in this synth setup come with aftertouch sensitivity. The tool is impressive in terms of oscillators, filters, effects, and connectivity options included. You get presets and free slots to create and store some of your own. Additionally, the ability to assign keys extra roles may come in handy as you’re making music.

    Bad
  • Build quality has left some users thinking the synth is too flimsy. Also, this is still one of the pricier options listed.

Next, we have the Novation Bass Station II, which is one of our more expensive options so far. You can decide to buy a bag alongside this synth, and it would allow you to carry the gadget everywhere you go. Also, the 25-key setup is just right for a compact device.

Notably, there are quite a few oscillators and sub oscillators in the device. This can play a massive role in dictating the sounds that the machine is capable of making. Adding the filters and effects that are mentioned above allows the synth to be even more attractive as a purchase.

One unique feature is that users can assign a unique patch to the keys in the setup. For anyone looking for such fluidity and the sound design capabilities that come with it, this is the tool for you.

The machine also allows you to create and store 64 presets. This is in addition to the 64 other presets that are already inbuilt. As for the connectivity, you won’t get disappointed either.

Lastly, the keys in this synth come with aftertouch sensitivity. Of course, this allows you to be more expressive with the notes you play and the sounds you produce.

Also Product Ranking:
3
Arturia MiniBrute 2
9,2
Site Rank
Features
  • Sound engine: analog
  • Polyphony: mono
  • Keyboard:25 velocity and pressure-sensitive keys
  • Oscillator: 2x VCO, 2x LFO
  • Filter: Steiner Parker (12dB per octave)
  • Envelope generator: 1x ADSR, 1xAD
  • Effects: Brute Factor Drive, Sweep Effects
  • Sequencer: 8 step-sequences (up to 64 steps each)
  • Connectivity: MIDI I/O, Audio I/O, USB type B I/O, 48 x 1/8″ Patchbay
Arturia MiniBrute 2
Good
Bad
    Good
  • This synth also uses an analog engine, which can be seen to produce better sound by some users. Variable oscillators add to the capabilities of the synth. Keys are velocity and pressure-sensitive with aftertouch. Also, you get comprehensive controls in the 48-point CV Mod Matrix.

    Bad
  •   The pricing of this synth is on the upper end of the $500 budget limit.

Another analog synth with a 25-key setup is available in the Arturia MiniBrute 2. Also, this synth follows in the footsteps of the Editor’s choice by being a mono-synth. That said, There’s a lot this relatively compact musical tool can handle.

The oscillators included are one reason to purchase this tool. As mentioned above, there are two VCO and two LFO oscillators. These oscillators are dedicated to producing different waveforms, which ultimately means the sound is unique. That said, the tool also has an oscillator mixer as part of the package.

The keys in this synth keyboard under 500 take it a notch higher than the Korg Monologue as they are both velocity and pressure-sensitive. Additionally, they can even offer aftertouch sensitivity. As for the effects in this mini music-producing machine, they are achieved by the Brute Factor Drive of the tool, which is quite versatile.

The manufacturer also included one ADSR and one AD envelope generators. With them, you should find creating loopable, AD, and AHR envelopes a cakewalk.

The sequencer also doesn’t get left out from this list of top-tier features from the device. Lastly, having a 48-point CV Mod Matrix may help you work to your musical strengths once you figure out the positioning of all knobs and buttons.

4
Best Keyboard
Behringer MS-1-BK
9,1
Site Rank
Features
  • Sound engine: analog
  • Polyphony: mono
  • Keyboard:32 semi-weighted full-size keys
  • Oscillator: 1x 3340 VCO (with 4 simultaneous waveforms), square sub-oscillator
  • Filter: 1x resonant VCF
  • Envelope generator: 1x ADSR
  • Effects: Portamento, Filter Effects
  • Sequencer: 32-step (64 sequence locations)
  • Connectivity: 1/4″ Audio I/O, 1/4″ headphones, USB type B, MIDI In/Out/Thru/USB,
    CV I/O, Gate I/O, Velocity out, VCF CV in, External Clock in, Grip, Mod
Behringer MS-1-BK
Good
Bad
    Good
  • You get full-size keys on the keyboard, which also happen to be semi-weighted. The single oscillator is quite impressive in its capacity to produce various waveforms. Connectivity ports included are many and will support multiple inputs and outputs.

    Bad
  • Not the most easy-to-transport option on the list.

For the price, if you want a high-level sequencer, the Behringer MS-1-BK is probably your best bet on the list. This sequencer allows for up to 32 steps that you can then store in the 64 sequence locations provided. Like most other inclusions on the list, the tool is monophonic and has an analog engine at the base of all its functions.

As for the oscillator, you can’t help but be impressed. It is a single 3340 VCO with the capacity to produce four waveforms simultaneously. These waveforms include saw, square, square sub-oscillator, and triangle.

The device may not be as portable as other picks listed. However, the manufacturer makes up for the lack of portability by adding 32 semi-weighted and full-size keys. If this is in line with your priorities, you can make the purchase without any regrets.

Aside from the keyboard, there are 57 other points of control on the machine. They include knobs, sliders, and switches. Among them, you’ll find ways to control the filters and effects available in the device so you can keep making new music.

Lastly, connectivity seems to be an area the manufacturer put a lot of thought into.

5
Best Polyphonic
Korg microKorg 37-Key Analog Modeling Synthesizer with Vocoder
8,9
Site Rank
Features
  • Sound engine: analog modeling
  • Polyphony: 4 notes (synth), 4 notes (vocoder)
  • Keyboard:37 mini-keys, semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive
  • Oscillator: 2 oscillators + Noise Generator, 2x LFO
  • Filter: Multi Mode Filter (-24dB/octLPF,-12dB/oct LPF/BPF/HPF)
  • Envelope generator: 2x ADSR
  • Effects: Modulation (3), Delay (3), 2-band EQ
  • Sequencer: n/a
  • Connectivity: 1 x TS (Mic/Line), 1 x TS (Line), 2 x 1/4″ Audio Out, ¼” headphones, MIDI I/O/Thru
Korg microKorg 37-Key Analog Modeling Synthesizer with Vocoder
Good
Bad
    Good
  • The analog modeling sound engine seems to hold out well against regular analog engines. You get 37 keys, which are the most of any synth in this lineup. The 128 presets included can be handy, especially for newbies and beginners. The synth can also work with AA batteries, which enhances its portability. Lastly, you get multiple filters, effects, and connectivity options.

    Bad
  • The key size may take some getting used to. Additionally, there’s no sequencer in this machine’s design.

The Korg MicroKorg is one of the polyphonic synths under 500 that’s worth consideration as a potential purchase. It uses an analog modeling sound engine, and hence it may sound a lot like an analog synth. However, if you were to look inside the circuitry, it would be different.

The keys in the microKorg also deserve praise. They are 37 in number, which is relatively high for this price range. Also, they are semi-weighted and velocity-sensitive. The only problem with them is that they are mini keys, which means you might need some time to get used to them if you’ve used normal-sized keyboards before.

For beginners, having 128 presets included in this purchase can get the ball rolling for you in the right direction. Also, you might appreciate the added portability that’s as a result of the AA battery compatibility. That said, if you’re at home or in a studio, a connection to a socket will suffice to provide the machine with all the power it needs.

Additionally, having various sound oscillators does bode well for the sound-producing capabilities of the tool. Notably, the filters and effects in the machine are many as well. As such, you can tweak the sounds produced by the synth or those from external inputs to achieve different levels of musical genius.

As for the connectivity, it doesn’t seem like you’ll be missing much if you make this your purchase. That said, you do miss out on a sequencer altogether when you buy the Korg MicroKorg.

Also Product Ranking:
6
Best Value
Behringer TD-3-RD
8,6
Site Rank
Features
  • Sound engine: Bass Line synthesizer with true analog circuitry
  • Polyphony: mono, 16-voice poly chain
  • Keyboard:13x key buttons
  • Oscillator: 1x VCO
  • Filter: four-pole resonant filter
  • Envelope generator: n/a
  • Effects: Distortion
  • Sequencer: 16-step, 7-track, 250 user patterns
  • Connectivity: 1 x 1/8″ TS (filter in), 1/4″ TS (line out), 1/8″ headphones, In/Out/Thru/USB, CV Out, Gate Out, Sync In, USB type B
Behringer TD-3-RD
Good
Bad
    Good
  • This synth is compact, lightweight, and easy to transport. Also, it is the most affordable option listed. The connectivity options give the other synths listed a run for their money.

    Bad
  • The machine doesn’t have a traditional keyboard in its setup.

The Behringer TD-3-RD is another option that may serve you well, especially as a beginner. With regards to polyphony, you get two options upon purchase. One is mono, where you can only play or produce a single note at a time. Alternatively, you can use the 16-voice poly-chain to string along a few notes.

As you can see, the Behringer TD-3-RD is simpler in design compared to the other synths listed. It is smaller, lighter, has a small keyboard, and very few buttons and knobs have been included. This difference in design may be the reason for the affordable price point. If your budget is limited to less than $200, you can still afford this synth.

The sequencer and connectivity are other elements the manufacturer is bound to be proud of. As for the oscillator and effects, this synth model falls behind other options. However, there is still a lot of value in this machine for the price.


Things to Consider

If you don’t understand how hardware synths work, the chances that you can fail at selecting the best option under $500 are still high. As such, we advise that you take the time to read the section below as it will give you a better understanding of synths in general. After that, you’ll breeze through the purchase with relative ease.

Features to consider when choosing a synthesizer

The features are often the difference between a good synthesizer and a bad one. We will strive to explain all the features that you may encounter as you look around for options. Consequently, you’ll find that deciding which synth to buy is easier than when you understand the features better.

Sound engine

There are two main types of sound engines in synths, i.e., analog and digital. For the synths in the list above, analog engines have carried the day. These tend to use electrical currents to produce sounds.

Notably, people who prefer analog signals are of the opinion that they produce warmer and more natural sounds. Digital synths, on the other hand, have the upside of a wider range of sounds. This is because they use software and algorithms to translate binary numbers into sound waves.

We would advise that you start with an analog option if you’re new to synths. This helps ease you into learning more about the music device. Of course, digital synths are much more challenging to figure out.

Keyboard

The type of keyboard also provides a look into the quality of the synthesizer. To accurately judge the keyboard, always check the number of keys and their type.

Those with more keys are usually preferred, although they will likely increase the size of the whole device. As for the type, you will see depictions such as weighted, semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive, and aftertouch sensitive.

As you may know acoustic pianos are sensitive to all kinds of stimuli. These include the speed through which you press the keys, the pressure you put on them and more.

Ideally, the keyboard in your synth should register these stimuli as well. It might also help if your keyboard has full-size keys like in the Behringer MS-1-BK, as they are easier to find and press.

6 Best Synths Under $500 to Enhance Your Music Skills

Controls and interface

One reason why we recommend analog synthesizers over digital ones to beginners is the ease of use. The controls and interface are easier to figure out. As such, we still recommend that you look for the simplest control structure and interface you can find from your options.

Monophonic vs. polyphonic

Monosynths are often limited in that you can only play one note at a time while you’re using the machine. However, since all the power goes into making a single sound, monophonic synthesizers tend to produce fuller and larger sounds.

Conversely, polysynths can produce multiple notes at the same time. This means the power will be divided according to the needs of the notes played. Of course, the result in a less aggressive sound. The Korg MicroKorg is an example of a polysynth device that can play up to four notes simultaneously.

Notably, you’ll have to pick the synth type you like the most from these two options.

Oscillators and filters

For analog synths like the ones above, the oscillators provide the electronic signals in their various waveforms before they are transmitted to other parts of the musical machine. They do this by converting direct currents to alternating currents.

Consequently, having more oscillators in your synth should also add to the sound capabilities of the machine. After all, these electric currents and signals are what is converted to sound.

Filters, on the other hand, work with sound that has already been produced. By blocking some elements of the sound while letting others through, the filter can shape tones to your preference. Consequently, the more filters you have, the more you can shape your tones to achieve different results.

Effects

Another way you can manipulate tones is through the effects. The Chorus, Distortion, Unison, and Reverb are some basic effects. Some other effects include the Brute Factor Drive in the Arturia MiniBrute 2. We would still advise you to get a synth that has as many effects as possible so that you have more choices in your sound manipulation.

Envelope generator

The presence of an envelope generator will give you complete control over the different stages of sounds produced. You can thus manipulate the attack, decay, sustain, and finally, the release of the sound produced.

Also, the stages of sound that an envelope generator can control are made clear in the features of the synth. For example, the Korg Monologue has an AD envelope generator, which means it can control the attack and the decay stages of the sound.

In contrast, the Novation Bass Station II has two ADSR envelope generators. As implied it has two generators that control all the sound stages, i.e., attack, decay, sustain and release. Whether you want this feature in your synth or not is up to you.

Connectivity

At some point, you’re going to want to integrate your synth with another device. It could be a guitar, your headphones, monitor speakers, a MIDI device, or your computer.

Notably, all these options will expand your capabilities with regard to what the synthesizer can do. In anticipation of this, we recommend getting a synth like the Novation Bass Station II, which has more connectivity options.

Portability

You will have to decide where you plan to use the synth before purchase. If you have a mini home studio where you will be using the synth, then it should be fine to get one that isn’t portable. After all, once it arrives, it won’t be leaving the house.

On the other hand, your intended use may involve carrying the synth daily to different places. In such a case, portability becomes a crucial selling point. One of the most portable devices to make it to the list is the Korg MicroKorg. It is small, lightweight, and as a bonus, it can work with batteries. As such, it can work on a train or a cab as you are commuting to a different destination.

6 Best Synths Under $500 to Enhance Your Music Skills

Built-in sequencer

Rhythms, effects, articulations, and notes don’t have to be played alone. Instead, they can be combined in a series of notes and even recorded. Once recorded, the synth can be used to play the same repeating sequence of notes, thus allowing you to experiment more with sounds. However, you need a built-in sequencer to pull this off. Notably, not all synths under $500 will come with sequencers.

FAQ

Should I get a keyboard or synthesizer?

The two musical devices may look similar, but they have different functions. The keyboard is simpler, reproduces prerecorded sounds, and will basically allow you to learn how to play the piano. Also, there aren’t many extra features on a keyboard.

Conversely, the synthesizer can produce unique sounds depending on the input. As such, if you’re shopping for a tool for the studio, the synthesizer will be a much better pick.

How much does a synthesizer cost?

On the list above, there’s a synth that costs slightly above $100. However, this synth is one of the cheaper options available and is suited for beginners. There are also options that cost thousands of dollars that are suited for music-making professionals.

Notably, this should imply that the cost of a synthesizer varies according to your needs. As such, once you’ve mastered using inexpensive synths, you can upgrade to the more expensive options.

Our verdict

The Korg Monologue is a nice pick with an excellent set of features. The design is top-notch and the manufacturer considered everything before releasing the product. This includes the affordability, the oscillators, keyboard design, filters, connectivity options and more.

For the Novation Bass Station II, you’ll need more money to get it. However, this synth takes after the Korg Monologue and gets almost a perfect score in all areas. The 2x ADSR envelope generator, the sequencer, and the programmable keyboard are especially impressive. The only major downside is the flimsy construction.

Our review team also liked the Arturia MiniBrute 2. It has two envelope generators, two oscillators, well-designed keys and a few other positive attributes. Like the editor’s choice it is well-rounded. However, it will need a little more money from your pocket as well. These three synths are our favorite picks from the list above.

We encourage you to read this write-up a second time as it will cement your understanding of synths in general and help you make a better purchase choice. Also, we wish you the best as you order your synth.

References

1.
How Do Synthesizers Work? Definition, History, and Role in Producing Music - 2022 - MasterClass
For most of human history, music could only be produced in a limited number of ways.
2.
Different types of synthesizer and how they work - RouteNote Blog
Ever wondered what all the different synthesizers are and what types of synth sounds they all make? You’ve come to the right place.
9,7
Total Score
Korg Synthesizer, 25 Key (MONOLOGUEBK) - Editor’s Choice
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