The synthesizer occupies a special place among the electric musical instruments. Even for a novice performer, it provides tremendous opportunities to achieve high sound quality, as well as to use unexpected effects. Professionals, on the other hand, thanks to the synthesizer, sometimes work miracles.
Analog or digital?
Digital synthesizers are relatively recent inventions. Before that, there were analog ones - their sound seemed strange to many, a sort of "space music" that had very little in common with the sound of acoustic instruments. Of course, vocal and instrumental groups used such synthesizers extensively, but this instrument was not very popular among fans of other genres. This has changed with the advent of digital technology. A modern synthesizer allows you to get the sound of acoustic instruments, and "space music" with all sorts of additional effects, and noises - both natural and those that were once included in the concept of "real music". In a word, a professional synthesizer should be digital, since it allows you to get the maximum result at a minimum cost. A synthesizer such as a sampler is also used, in which signal samples are pre-recorded.
Synthesizer characteristics
When buying a synthesizer (or a sound card capable of replacing it for a while), you should pay attention first of all to the number and types of effects. This is indicated in the technical documentation. It is important to be able to record the created sounds and musical fragments, as well as to interface with external devices (for example, with computers, that is, MIDI interface, USB interface, etc.). It is very good if the amount of memory is not just enough for your purposes, but you can increase it. Pay attention to the number of controls. These are all kinds of pedals or "wheels", as well as the convenience of their use. Visualization methods are also important - the presence of a built-in display. Note the presence of a low noise analog output. The digital signal can have different bit depths (8, 16.32, etc. bits - there must be a 16-bit digital signal, and a higher bit depth is encouraged). Rate the keyboard. The number of keys is important here, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the mechanics. The keyboard should be comfortable. Much depends on how well you play the piano. The higher your piano technique, the more octaves can be played on the synthesizer. If you don't play well enough or don't know this instrument at all, four octaves will be enough for your eyes. An important indicator of quality is also polyphony, that is, how many sounds can be taken simultaneously. Finally, be sure to pay attention to the manufacturer.
Who produces them
Synthesizers are not released now only by the lazy. The market for musical instruments is literally packed with instruments of all kinds of little-known brands. You can find Korean and Singaporean synthesizers in stores. They are relatively inexpensive, there is a risk of buying a low-quality one. It is better to give preference to recognized brands such as Yamaha, Casio, Clavia, Roland.
