Synthesizers

Shop leading names including Korg, Nord, Roland and Yamaha, with expert support from Fair Deal Music. Our used synthesizers are individually listed and may be unique or one-off, so availability can change quickly.

New and Used Synthesizers for Every Kind of Musician

A synthesizer gives you the freedom to create, shape and perform sounds that go far beyond those of a traditional keyboard. Whether you want rich analogue basses, expressive leads, evolving pads, realistic instruments, rhythmic sequences or entirely original textures, the right synthesizer can become the creative centre of your music.

At Fair Deal Music, you can explore new and used synthesizers suited to home studios, professional recording environments, rehearsal rooms, stages and portable music-making setups. Our collection may include compact desktop synths, analogue and digital keyboards, performance instruments, modular and semi-modular designs, arranger-style systems and powerful music workstations.

Stock changes regularly, particularly within our used collection, where an instrument may be a discontinued model, a hard-to-find favourite or a one-off opportunity.

Why Choose a Synthesizer?

Synthesizers are designed for musicians who want more control over their sound. Instead of relying solely on fixed presets, many models allow you to adjust elements such as oscillators, filters, envelopes, modulation, effects and sequencing to create sounds that suit your own style.

• Create original sounds: Build distinctive basses, leads, pads, textures and effects.
• Transform your performances: Layer, split and shape sounds for live music.
• Expand your studio: Add hands-on sound design and hardware control to your production setup.
• Explore different synthesis methods: Discover analogue, virtual analogue, digital, FM, wavetable, sample-based and hybrid instruments.
• Develop new ideas: Use arpeggiators, sequencers and performance controls to inspire fresh musical directions.

Types of Synthesizer

Analogue Synthesizers

Analogue synthesizers are popular for their immediate controls, powerful bass sounds, expressive leads and characterful tonal response. They are an excellent choice for musicians who enjoy shaping sounds directly using knobs, switches and sliders.

Digital and Hybrid Synthesizers

Digital synthesizers can offer a wide range of sounds, flexible modulation and detailed editing within a compact instrument. Hybrid models combine different sound-generation technologies, giving musicians access to both classic-inspired tones and more modern sonic possibilities.

Workstation Keyboards

A music workstation combines a broad sound library with performance, sequencing and production features. These instruments are well suited to professional performers, composers, producers, schools, houses of worship and musicians who want one keyboard to cover a wide range of musical situations.

Desktop and Sound Modules

Desktop synthesizers and sound modules provide synthesis features without a full-size keyboard. They can be controlled using a separate MIDI keyboard, sequencer or computer and are ideal for studios where space is limited.

Modular and Semi-Modular Synthesizers

Modular and semi-modular instruments allow sounds and control signals to be routed in creative ways. They are particularly suited to experimental musicians, electronic producers and anyone who wants a highly hands-on approach to sound design.

Performance Synthesizers

Performance-focused models often combine fast sound selection, expressive controls, splits, layers and stage-ready features. They are designed to help musicians move confidently between sounds during rehearsals, performances and recording sessions.

Which Synthesizer Is Right for Me?

The best synthesizer depends on how you intend to use it, the sounds you want to create and how much control you want over the instrument.

• For beginners: Look for clear controls, useful presets and an approachable layout that encourages experimentation.
• For music production: Consider MIDI connectivity, sound-design depth, sequencing, automation and integration with your recording setup.
• For live performance: Prioritise reliable sound selection, keyboard feel, splits, layers, performance controls and suitable outputs.
• For electronic sound design: Explore instruments with flexible modulation, hands-on controls, patching or multiple synthesis engines.
• For an all-in-one setup: A workstation can provide a large sound library, performance features and music-creation tools in one instrument.
• For limited space: A compact keyboard or desktop synthesizer may provide the creative features you need without occupying a large area.

Also consider the number and size of keys, whether the keyboard is weighted or semi-weighted, polyphony, built-in effects, preset storage, audio connections, MIDI or USB connectivity and whether speakers are included.

New or Used Synthesizer?

A new synthesizer is a strong choice when you want the latest features, a specific current model or an instrument that has not previously been owned.

A used synthesizer can offer excellent value and may give you access to discontinued models, previous flagship instruments and distinctive sounds that are no longer available in current ranges. Used stock is often unique, so it is worth checking the individual product description carefully for information about condition, included accessories and availability.

Trusted Synthesizer Brands

Our collection may include synthesizers and performance keyboards from respected manufacturers such as Korg, Nord, Roland and Yamaha. Each brand offers a different approach to sound creation, performance and workflow, ranging from accessible compact instruments to advanced professional workstations.

Available brands and models change as new products arrive and used instruments are bought and sold, so explore the current collection to see what is available today.

Buy, Sell or Trade Your Synthesizer

Fair Deal Music can help when you are ready to sell your existing synthesizer, exchange it for another instrument or upgrade your setup.

• Sell: Turn unwanted keyboards, synthesizers and music equipment into cash.
• Trade In: Use the value of your current equipment towards another product.
• Part Exchange: Reduce the amount you need to pay when purchasing your next instrument.
• Trade Up: Move to a more advanced synthesizer, workstation or performance keyboard as your needs develop.

Contact the Fair Deal Music team with details of the equipment you would like to sell or trade, including its make, model, condition and any accessories supplied with it.

Finance Options

Finance options may be available on eligible synthesizers, helping you spread the cost of your purchase. Availability and terms depend on the product, purchase value and finance provider, so check the relevant product page or speak with our team for current information.

Delivery and Collection

Available delivery and collection options are shown during your purchase and may vary according to the size, value and location of the instrument. Customers can also contact the Fair Deal Music team before ordering if they need help choosing the most suitable option.

When buying a used synthesizer, check the individual listing for details of its condition and anything included with the instrument.

Why Thousands of Musicians Choose Fair Deal Music

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you’re choosing one of the UK’s most established independent family-run music retailers, proudly helping musicians since 1987.

• Friendly advice from a knowledgeable musical-instrument team
• A wide selection of new, used and specialist music equipment
• Opportunities to buy, sell, trade in and part exchange
• Support for beginners, enthusiasts, producers and professional musicians
• A Birmingham showroom backed by decades of musical retail experience
• Thousands of musicians who have chosen Fair Deal Music

Synthesizer FAQs

What is the difference between a synthesizer and a keyboard?

A keyboard is a broad term for an electronic instrument played using keys. A synthesizer is specifically designed to generate, combine and shape sounds. Some keyboards focus on realistic piano and instrument sounds, while synthesizers usually provide greater control over how a sound is created and modified.

Is a synthesizer suitable for a beginner?

Yes. Many synthesizers include ready-to-play presets and straightforward controls, allowing beginners to start making music immediately while gradually learning more about sound design.

Do synthesizers have built-in speakers?

Some models include speakers, but many professional and studio synthesizers require headphones, powered speakers, studio monitors, a keyboard amplifier or a PA system. Check the individual product specification before purchasing.

What is an analogue synthesizer?

An analogue synthesizer uses analogue circuitry to generate and shape its sound. These instruments are often chosen for their hands-on controls, distinctive character and ability to create powerful basses, leads and evolving tones.

What is a polyphonic synthesizer?

A polyphonic synthesizer can play several notes at the same time, making it suitable for chords, pads and layered parts. A monophonic synthesizer normally plays one note at a time and is commonly used for bass lines, leads and sound effects.

Can I use a synthesizer with music-production software?

Many synthesizers can connect to a computer or recording system using USB, MIDI or audio cables. The exact connection options vary between models, so check the product specification and the requirements of your existing setup.

Do I need a computer to use a synthesizer?

No. Most hardware synthesizers can be played independently without a computer. A computer may be useful for recording, editing, software integration, updates or managing sounds, depending on the model.

Can I connect a synthesizer to an audio interface?

Yes, provided the synthesizer has suitable audio outputs and the interface has compatible inputs. This allows the synthesizer to be recorded into music-production software or included within a wider studio setup.

Should I buy a synthesizer or a workstation?

Choose a synthesizer when sound creation and hands-on control are your main priorities. Choose a workstation when you also need a large selection of instrument sounds, performance functions and broader music-production features within one keyboard.

Are used synthesizers a good investment?

A used synthesizer can provide strong value, particularly when it is a discontinued model or offers professional features at a lower price than a comparable new instrument. Condition, functionality, included accessories and future servicing requirements should all be considered before purchasing.

Can I part exchange my current keyboard or synthesizer?

Fair Deal Music welcomes enquiries from customers interested in selling or part exchanging suitable musical equipment. Provide the make, model, condition and details of any accessories so the team can assess your enquiry.

Why do used synthesizers sell quickly?

Many used synthesizers are individual one-off items. Popular, discontinued and hard-to-find models may attract interest quickly and may not be immediately replaceable once sold.

Explore Our Current Synthesizer Collection

Discover new and used synthesizers for the studio, stage and home. Whether you are choosing your first synth, expanding a production setup, searching for a professional workstation or looking for a distinctive used instrument, explore the current collection and find the right creative tool for your music.