First off, I honestly didn't know if "MISCELLANEOUS" was the place, but it could have been both right and wrong for "BASSES" or "EFFECTS", however it was slightly on topic, so... if it needs to be moved, please feel free!
I've recently become interested in getting an actual synth to add to my setup. It will not replace the bass, it would be a supplement to what I'm using, pretty much for punctuation and the kinds of things you'd hear for "temporary synth needs." A big intro note here and there, maybe some sound effects during a drum break, etc.
(and FWIW, I did do a search and only found threads from many years ago, so I'm pretty sure most of those recommendations are far outdated. Or at least, they don't contain stuff that would be more modern and readily available.)
THIS IS BASICALLY WHAT I'M AFTER:
- It must be a relatively small form factor, but with somewhat larger keys.
I had a MicroKorg and it's great, but the keys were narrower than my fingers would like. Function was perfect in many regards though! Just a bit small for me.
- It can't be expensive.
My gear money goes to basses. And while I realize this is "bass adjacent," if I had big money to spend on something, it's gonna be invested in a bass or rig that would get way more use. This project is essentially a small portion of what I would do, so I don't see a need to spend big money on it. If I become so infatuated with the art of doing it down the line, then yeah, I'll splurge... but this is my entry point. My max would be about $450 and that would only be if it's THAT good where I need to max out or it's just priced far lower than the true value.
- Not looking for anything too complex or involved.
I realize that I could get a controller and connect to a computer... but that is too much room for my practice area. I want just a keyboard that provides the bassier notes.
I also don't love learning to program patches or do anything where it requires being saved for presets and whatnot. I'd prefer something that can be manipulated manually for how I want it to sound and it will remain so until I change settings.
And finally, I don't play keys or piano, so it doesn't need to be a full piano. I prefer something small in width.
- If it could be connected to footpedals (ala "Poor man's Taurus"), that would be a bonus.
Yes, part of this desire has come from listening to 70s prog a bit and liking that ability. And yes, that adds complications to a degree. But if it becomes an option for me to do so down the line, the ability to make it actually work like that would be pretty cool, not gonna lie.
From what I've seen, there aren't a ton of different things that fit the bill and some do so better than others.
But I'd love to know what the actual TB bassists who do such dark arts are actually using and enjoying, as well as what they might steer me towards in a venture such as this.
So what should I be looking at first here?
