The Best Electronic Music Generators

The electronic music scene is constantly evolving, and new music generators are constantly being released. It can be tough to keep up with the latest and greatest, but we’re here to help.

In this blog post, we’ll round up the best electronic music generators currently on the market. Whether you’re looking for something to create complex soundscapes or simply want to add some spice to your tracks, one of these units is sure to fit the bill.

Synthesizers

Synthesizers are one of the best electronic music generators because of their wide range of sounds. They can create any type of sound, from realistic imitations of acoustic instruments to completely new and original sounds.

Analog Synthesizers

Analog synthesizers are musical instruments that use a variety of mechanisms to generate sounds. These instruments typically use electronic circuits and components to generate sound, but some also use mechanical or optical components. Many analog synthesizers generate sound by either creating or manipulating electrical signals, which are then converted into sound by loudspeakers.

Some of the first electronic musical instruments, such as the theremin and Ondes Martenot, were based on analog technology. In the 1930s and 1940s, a number of important advances were made in the field of electronics, which led to the development of more sophisticated analog synthesizers.

The first commercial analog synthesizer was the Moog Synthesizer, which was released in 1964. This instrument was capable of generating a wide range of sounds, and it became very popular with musicians who were looking for new ways to create music.

In the 1970s and 1980s, a number of other companies began to produce their own analog synthesizers, including Sequential Circuits and Yamaha. These instruments became increasingly popular with a wide range of musicians, from pop and rock bands to classical composers.

Today, there are many different types of analog synthesizers available on the market, from simple monophonic instruments to complex polyphonic machines. While digital technology has led to the development of more sophisticated musical instruments, many musicians still prefer the sound of analog synthesizers.

Digital Synthesizers

Digital synthesizers are usually based on a computer or microprocessor and generate sound using a variety of digital synthesis techniques. These instruments often include a wide range of sounds and can be very versatile. Many digital synthesizers also have the ability to store sounds, which can be recalled at any time.

Samplers

Samplers are electronic music generators that use recorded samples of sounds (usually digital recordings of real instruments or noise taken from nature), in order to create new sounds. Samplers can be played like a traditional instrument, or they can be used to create new and original sounds.

Hardware Samplers

There are two main types of samplers: hardware samplers and software samplers. Hardware samplers are physical units that you can touch and hold in your hand. They generally have a keyboard and a lot of other controls on them, making them more hands-on and interactive than software samplers.

Software samplers are exactly what they sound like: they’re programs that you run on your computer. They often have a very user-friendly interface, making them easy to use even for those who are not very tech-savvy. However, because they’re not physical units, they can be more difficult to control and may require a more complex setup.

Both hardware and software samplers have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that’s right for you based on your needs and preferences. If you’re just starting out, a software sampler may be the better option because it will be easier to use and less expensive. However, if you’re looking for something with more features and options, a hardware sampler may be a better choice.

Software Samplers

Software samplers are computer programs that emulate the functionality of a hardware sampler. In other words, they allow you to load in audio files (usually in WAV or AIFF format) and play them back at various pitches, with various effects applied.

One of the most popular software samplers is Native Instruments’ Kontakt, which is used by many professional producers and musicians. Recently, however, a number of excellent free and open source software samplers have been released, such as SoX Sampler (Windows/Mac/Linux), Audacity (Windows/Mac/Linux), and Orphaned Land (Windows).

There are also a number of specialized software samplers designed for specific tasks, such as Ableton Live’s granular synthesis engine, which is perfect for creating organic textures and pads. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something to create more traditional sample-based melodies, then a drum machine like Addictive Drums 2 or Geist 2 might be more up your street.

Drum Machines

A drum machine is an electronic musical instrument that creates percussion sounds, usually for simulating drums. They are commonly used by producers and DJs to make beats or create repetitive loops. Drum machines can create a wide variety of sounds, from classic drum kits to more abstract or synthetic percussion sounds.

Analog Drum Machines

Analog drum machines use analog circuitry to generate and process sound. Most analog drum machines use a step sequencer to control the sound generation, which is then passed through filters and effects units to shape the sound.

Analog drum machines are prized for their warm, organic sound, as well as their ability to create unique and unpredictable results. Because each machine is slightly different, they can each create their own signature sound.

Examples of popular analog drum machines include the Roland TR-808 and TR-909, the Korg Volca Beats, and the Moog Mother 32.

Digital Drum Machines

Digital drum machines are perfect for those who want the incredible realism and detail that modern technology can provide. With advanced sounds, rhythms, and effects, these units are capable of creating any type of music you can imagine. Another big advantage of digital units is that they are incredibly easy to use, with many of them coming with pre-programmed rhythms and sounds that you can simply select and play.

MIDI Controllers

MIDI controllers are devices that are used to create and produce electronic music. They come in all shapes and sizes, from simple drum pads to advanced production stations. MIDI controllers can be used to create a wide variety of sounds, and they are a staple in many electronic music studios. In this article, we will be discussing the best MIDI controllers on the market.

Keyboard MIDI Controllers

Keyboard MIDI controllers come in all shapes and sizes, from miniscule units that can slip into a laptop bag, to all-singing, all-dancing models with weighted keys,Number of keys: The number of keys on a keyboard MIDI controller dictates how many notes you can play at once. 25, 37, 49 and 61 key models are the most popular, although you can also find keyless controllers (also known as pads) and giant 88key instruments. Some products have a piano-style action with hammer-weighted keys, while others use synth-style keys that spring back when you release them.
Keybed feel: A keyboard’s keybed is the row of springs and hinges that run underneath the actual keys. The feel of a keybed is an important consideration for any musician who spends a lot of time playing their instrument. A great keybed will make it easy to play for hours on end without fatigue, while a poor one will quickly tire your fingers and wrists.
Aftertouch: Aftertouch is a pressure-sensitive control that allows you to add vibrato, filter sweeps and other effects by applying pressure to the keys after you’ve played them. It’s a fun performance tool that can add an extra dimension to your playing, but it’s not essential for everyone.
Octaves: The octave buttons on a keyboard MIDI controller let you shift the pitch of the notes up or down by one or more octaves. This comes in handy when you want to play notes outside the range of the keyboard, or if you want to change the range of the keyboard to match the notes you’re playing.
Modulation and pitch bend: These two controls let you tweak the sound of your notes in real time. Modulation adds vibrato to your sound, while pitch bend raises or lowers the pitch of your notes. Both are great performance tools that can add expression to your playing.
Sustain pedal input: Most keyboard MIDI controllers have a pedal input that lets you plug in a sustain pedal (also known as a damper pedal). This gives you hands-free control over sustain, which can be very useful for pianists and other players who need both hands free to play their instrument.
MIDI I/O: All keyboard MIDI controllers have some form of MIDI I/O so they can send and receive MIDI data. Some units have 5-pin DIN connectors (the traditional MIDI connection), while others use USB or even Bluetooth. If you need to connect your controller to other MIDI devices (such as a computer or drum machine), make sure it has the right type of connector for your needs

Pad MIDI Controllers

Pad controllers are one of the most popular types of MIDI controller on the market. They come in all shapes and sizes, from compact mini controllers to larger units with built-in drum pads and other features.

Pad controllers are popular for their versatility. They can be used for a wide range of tasks, from playing drum beats to triggering samples and loops. Many pads also have built-in samplers, making them ideal for live performance.

The best pad MIDI controllers will offer a good selection of pads, with a variety of different functions. Look for a unit with large, velocity-sensitive pads that feel good to play. If you’re looking for a controller with built-in drum pads, make sure the pads are laid out in an intuitive and easy-to-use layout.

Some other things to look for in a pad MIDI controller include:
– Pitch and mod wheels: These can be used to add expression to your playing.
– Transport controls: These buttons can be used to control your DAW or music software.
– jog wheels: These can be used for scrolling through tracks or tweaking parameters.
– Assignable buttons and knobs: These can be mapped to control almost any function in your DAW or music software.

Modular Synthesizers

Modular synthesizers are one of the best electronic music generators because of their flexibility and range of sounds. They can be used to create any type of electronic music, from ambient to techno. Synthesizers are also very popular among professional musicians.

Eurorack Modular Synthesizers

Eurorack modular synthesizers are musical instruments that are made up of modules. These modules can be connected together using patch cables to create all sorts of different sounds.

Eurorack modular synthesizers are extremely popular because they offer a huge amount of flexibility and creativity. There are modules for all kinds of different sounds, from classic analog synthesis to complex digital effects. You can use as few or as many modules as you like, and you can reconfigure your setup at any time.

The only limit is your imagination!

Desktop Modular Synthesizers

Desktop modular synthesizers are self-contained units that come with everything you need to start making music. They typically include a keyboard, a sound engine, and a set of modules that you can use to create your own custom sound.

Desktop modular synthesizers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from compact units that can fit on your desk to larger units that require their own dedicated stand or table.

The most popular desktop modular synthesizer brands include Moog, Make Noise, Intellijel, and Doepfer.