Unsure what the best synth is for you and your needs? Use psychology to help you pick the absolute perfect one.
The Best Synth for You Based on Your Personality TypeThe Best Synth For YouThe Best Synth For ENFP: Expressive E OsmoseThe Best Synth For ISTJ: KORG opsix mkIIThe Best Synth For ISFJ: KORG microKORGThe Best Synth For ESTJ: Native Instruments Kontrol S88 MK3The Best Synth For ESFJ: Moog Minimoog Model DThe Best Synth For ISTP: ModularThe Best Synth For ISFP: Clavia Nord Grand 2The Best Synth For ESTP: Roland FANTOM EXThe Best Synth For ESFP: KORG Pa5XThe Best Synth For INTJ: Polyend TrackerThe Best Synth For INTP: Zynthian V5The Best Synth For ENTJ: Akai Professional MPC XLThe Best Synth For ENTP: Behringer UB-XaThe Best Synth For INFJ: ASM HydrasynthThe Best Synth For INFP: Sequential Prophet-5The Best Synth For ENFJ: Rhodes MK8More Information
The Best Synth For You
There is an incredible amount of synthesizers available out there. How do you know which one is the most suited to you? You could always try one out at a store but good luck finding one near you. YouTube synthfluencers do their best demoing new models but that can only tell you so much. No, it’s better to use psychology to find the best synth for you.
If you’ve been on the internet, you’ve probably heard of the MBTI. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator separates everyone into 16 different personality categories based on things like introversion vs extroversion. It’s become quite popular lately.
Today we’re going to be using the MBTI to get recommendations for the best synths. If you don’t already know your type, go take this free test and then come back. And if you’re wondering how I’m qualified to make these recommendations, I once studied psychology before dropping out to be a full-time raver. Now lie down on the couch and tell me all about your Mother-32.
As you can probably tell, this is meant to just be a little fun. And now, your perfect synth, psychologically.
The Best Synth For ENFP: Expressive E Osmose
Enthusiastic, creative and energetic, the ENFP is after authentic experiences and interactions. What better way to interact with a synth than with polyphonic aftertouch?
Expressive E Osmose · Source: Expressive E
The part of you that values emotions and expression will go gaga for the Expressive E Osmose, one of the most unique and expressive synths on the market. Bring out all sorts of nuances in a sound by touch alone. It’s the best synth for you – by a mile.
The Expressive E Osmose is available from our affiliate partners Thomann* and Sweetwater*.
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Expressive E Osmose
Customer rating: (50)
$1,529.00 / £1,398.00 / 1,599.00€ at
Expressive E Osmose 61-key Polyphonic Synthesizer and MIDI Controller
$1999 at
The Best Synth For ISTJ: KORG opsix mkII
For the ISTJ, it has to be FM synthesis. You are the Logistician after all. Serious and matter-of-fact with a love for order and details, the clear and gorgeous math of FM will be just what you need.
KORG opsix mkII: More FM Synthesis Power · Source: KORG
If this were 1983 I’d suggest a Yamaha DX7 but as it’s 2024, let’s go with KORG’s opsix mkII, which takes FM synthesis into the future. Delve deep into programming sounds and create perfectly realistic bells, electric pianos and percussion sounds in advance for your future songs as you like. It will have you singing. Logically, of course.
KORG opsix mkII is available from our affiliate partners Thomann* and Sweetwater*.
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Korg opsix MKII
Customer rating: (7)
$529.00 / £485.00 / 555.00€ at
Korg Opsix mk II Altered FM Synthesizer
$599.99 at
The Best Synth For ISFJ: KORG microKORG
It is said that the ISFJ is friendly and loyal, responsible and reserved. Nothing flashy for you, nor a synth that is too esoteric. For the ISFJ in the market for a new synth, might I suggest the KORG microKORG?
microKORG Family · Source: KORG
Tried and true, the microKORG has been a best-seller for more than two decades now. This virtual analogue synth also plays exceptionally well with others, being especially popular with bands.
KORG microKORG is available from our affiliate partner Thomann*.
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Korg microKORG
Customer rating: (330)
$379.00 / £348.00 / 399.00€ at
The Best Synth For ESTJ: Native Instruments Kontrol S88 MK3
You aren’t called the Director for nothing. Responsible, practical and organized, the ESTJ is known to be assertive – and you get results. For you, it has to be not just an instrument but a full-on MIDI keyboard controller.
Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3 · Source: Native Instruments
Let your bossy side come to the fore with Native Instruments Kontrol S88 MK3 and command all of the soft synths in your DAW. You’re in charge now. Show them how it’s done.
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3 is available from our affiliate partners Thomann* and Sweetwater*.
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Native Instruments Kontrol S88 MK3
Customer rating: (41)
$945.00 / £869.00 / 999.00€ at
Native Instruments Kontrol S88 Mk3 88-key Smart Keyboard Controller
$1299 at
The Best Synth For ESFJ: Moog Minimoog Model D
Think of the ESFJ, and the word that immediately comes to mind is ‘warm’. Now think of a Moog Minimoog Model D. Same word, right? Conscientious with an emphasis on community, that’s the ESFJ.
Bob Moog Tribute Edition Minimoog Model D · Source: Moog
With a remake of the classic Minimoog in front of you, you’ll be able to actualize your best self as part of a band. Tune your Minimoog to your bandmates’ instruments and play together in warm harmony.
Moog Minimoog Bob Moog Tribute Edition is available from our affiliate partner Thomann*.
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Moog Minimoog Bob Moog Tribute Ed.
Customer rating: (5)
$4,590.00 / £4,190.00 / 4,799.00€ at
The Best Synth For ISTP: Modular
Oh hello there, maverick ISTP. No typical keyboard synthesizer for reckless, risk-taking you. No, for you it has to be modular.
Eurorack 200 Series · Source: Gearnews
Given your independent nature, I’d go so far as to not just recommend Eurorack but something more out there like Buchla or even Serge. Not fearless enough? Try live patching in front of an audience for a real adventure.
Doepfer A-100BS2-P9 system is available from our affiliate partners Thomann* and Sweetwater*.
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Doepfer A-100BS2-P9 PSU3
Customer rating: (20)
$2,290.00 / £2,099.00 / 2,399.00€ at
Doepfer A-100BS2P9sw Eurorack Modular A-100 Basic System 2 in P9 Case with Power Supply
$3002 at
The Best Synth For ISFP: Clavia Nord Grand 2
For the ISFP, many of the choices here may seem too brash. For you, who are sensitive, quiet and considerate, I recommend the Clavia Nord Grand 2.
The hammer-action keybed is made by Kawai · Source: Nord Keyboards
While it does have a sample synth section, you’ll really take to the piano part of the Grand 2. The Premium Kawai Hammer Action keybed will let you play as sensitively as you like. It’s perfect for entertaining small groups of friends in intimate environments.
Clavia Nord Grand 2 is available from our affiliate partners Thomann* and Sweetwater*.
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Clavia Nord Grand 2
Customer rating: (4)
$3,555.00 / £3,269.00 / 3,743.00€ at
Nord Grand 2 88-key Stage Keyboard
$4499 at
The Best Synth For ESTP: Roland FANTOM EX
Action-oriented. Pragmatic. Sophisticated and charming. For the ESTP, a high-quality, results-oriented instrument would be perfect. I’m thinking workstation, something that you can take from basic idea through to finished song.
Roland Fantom EX · Source: Roland
With its ZEN-Core and ACB sound systems plus the ability to load expansions, the recently released Roland FANTOM EX is just the ticket. Available in three configurations.
is available from our affiliate partners Thomann* and Sweetwater*.
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Roland Fantom-6 EX
Customer rating: (4)
$3,199.00 / £2,939.00 / 3,365.00€ at
Roland Fantom-7 EX
Customer rating: (2)
$3,399.00 / £3,111.00 / 3,599.00€ at
Roland Fantom-8 EX
Customer rating: (1)
$3,698.00 / £3,380.00 / 3,869.00€ at
Roland FANTOM 6 EX Synthesizer Workstation
$3519.99 at
Roland FANTOM 7 EX Synthesizer Workstation
$4069.99 at
Roland FANTOM 8 EX Synthesizer Workstation
$4629.99 at
The Best Synth For ESFP: KORG Pa5X
As an ESFP, you like to be the centre of attention. Easygoing and fun, you require an instrument that matches your outgoing personality. Something geared towards spontaneous live performance that you can easily switch up on the fly.
KORG Pa5X 76 keys Musikant version · Source: Korg
For the ESFP, nothing but an arranger will do. I recommend KORG Pa5X, the flagship in Korg’s arranger lineup. Go wild with the pre-loaded styles and compose and perform on the fly. Most importantly, entertain your audience. We’re counting on you.
KORG Pa5X is available from our affiliate partners Thomann* and Sweetwater*.
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Korg PA-5X 61 International
Customer rating: (14)
$3,385.00 / £3,085.00 / 3,529.00€ at
Korg PA-5X 76 International
Customer rating: (9)
$3,699.00 / £3,399.00 / 3,899.00€ at
Korg PA-5X 88 International
Customer rating: (1)
$3,799.00 / £3,499.00 / 3,999.00€ at
Korg Pa5X 61 61-key Arranger Workstation
$4868.99 at
Korg Pa5X 76 76-key Arranger Workstation
$5399.99 at
Korg Pa5X 88 88-key Arranger Workstation
$5299.99 at
The Best Synth For INTJ: Polyend Tracker
The INTJ is highly independent, analytical and yet also creative. You also like to work alone so something self-contained like a groovebox is the perfect solution.
Polyend Tracker · Source: Polyend
Given this unique combination, the Polyend Tracker series, including the Tracker+ and Tracker Mini, is the best for you. The perfectionist in you will love the tight control over sounds while your logical side will dig the tracker workflow.
Polyend Tracker+ is available from our affiliate partner Sweetwater*.
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Polyend Tracker+ 16-track Stereo Sampler, Drum Machine, and Synthesizer
$999 at
Polyend Tracker Mini Portable Standalone Audio Workstation
$799 at
The Best Synth For INTP: Zynthian V5
Often called the Thinker, INTP loves a good theoretical concept. What could be a better synth for you than something open-source and hackable?
Zynthian V5 · Source: Zynthian
Zynthian V5 is a self-contained open synth platform and part of a growing number of instruments built around the Raspberry Pi. Your logical side will also enjoy the DIY aspect of putting the kit together yourself.
Zynthian shop
The Best Synth For ENTJ: Akai Professional MPC XL
You, my ENTJ friend, are the Commander. You like to take charge and get into the organization and structure of things.
AKAI MPC XL · Source: AKAI
For you, your best synth isn’t a synth at all but a sample-based groovebox: the Akai MPC XL. Much like you, it’s the driving force of the operation, syncing and sequencing everything together. Oh captain, my captain.
The Akai Professional MPC XL is available from our affiliate partners Thomann* and Sweetwater*.
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AKAI Professional MPC XL
Customer rating: (11)
$2,390.00 / £2,099.00 / 2,435.00€ at
Akai Professional MPC XL Standalone Music Production Center
$2899 at
The Best Synth For ENTP: Behringer UB-Xa
You love a good debate. Why, I’ll bet you’re actually disagreeing with that statement right now. For the innovative, outspoken and lively ENTP, your perfect synth needs to be more than just a good instrument. It needs to be, well, controversial.
Behringer UB-Xa · Source: Behringer
That’s why I’m recommending the Behringer UB-Xa, an analogue clone of the Oberheim OB-Xa. Play it, post about it and debate its merits with people on the internet to your heart’s content.
The Behringer UB-XA is available from our affiliate partners Thomann* and Sweetwater*.
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Behringer UB-Xa
Customer rating: (68)
$859.00 / £759.00 / 899.00€ at
Behringer UB-Xa 16-voice Bitimbral Polyphonic Analog Synthesizer
$1299 at
The Best Synth For INFJ: ASM Hydrasynth
The INFJ is both creative and logical. For you (and I should know, as I’m an INFJ), you need something that gets the artistic juices flowing while also being intuitive and logically laid out. That’s why I’m recommending the ASM Hydrasynth.
Hydrasynth Explorer and Deluxe · Source: ASM
A combination of digital wavetable oscillators with subtractive synthesis, the Hydrasynth (available in four variations) will tickle both sides of your sometimes split personality. For your rarity, INFJ is often called a unicorn; cuddle up to another mythological beast, the hydra, and you’ll go far.
ASM Hydrasynth is available from our affiliate partners Thomann* and Sweetwater*.
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ASM Hydrasynth Keyboard
Customer rating: (73)
$1,099.00 / £1,099.00 / 1,269.00€ at
ASM Hydrasynth 49-key 8-voice Polyphonic Wave Morphing Synthesizer
$1399 at
The Best Synth For INFP: Sequential Prophet-5
Sometimes confused with INFJ, the INFP is also creative but often more idealistic and caring. Your high sense of values will be drawn to Sequential’s Prophet-5, a classy analogue poly and the best synth for you.
Sequential Prophet-5 · Source: Sequential
You’re also loyal and family-oriented, which makes me think of the late Dave Smith and his collaborations with Tom Oberheim and Roger Linn. Make the world a better place, one synth-powered song at a time.
Sequential Prophet-5 is available from our affiliate partners Thomann* and Sweetwater*.
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Sequential Prophet 5
Customer rating: (24)
$3,398.00 / £3,299.00 / 3,795.00€ at
Sequential Prophet-5 61-key Analog Synthesizer
$3699.99 at
The Best Synth For ENFJ: Rhodes MK8
OK, I’m cheating as my recommendation for ENFJ isn’t a synthesizer at all but a Rhodes MK8.
Rhodes MK8 · Source: Rhodes
Hear me out, though, ENFJ. You’re warm, right? So’s a Rhodes. You’re attuned to others’ emotions, aren’t you? I’d say a Rhodes is really good at emotive sound. You’re also a good leader who wants to help others achieve. Doesn’t the Rhodes help lead any band’s sound to something good? Think about it a bit. You know it makes sense. And if a real MK8 is too pricey, there’s always the official plugin.
Rhodes MK8 is available from our affiliate partner Thomann*.
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Rhodes Mk 8/80AE
No customer rating available yet
$18,690.00 / £16,990.00 / 19,499.00€ at
Rhodes Mk 8-73 FX Deluxe MIDI
Customer rating: (1)
$15,890.00 / £14,490.00 / 16,599.00€ at
Rhodes Mk 8-73 FX Classic MIDI
No customer rating available yet
$14,090.00 / £12,890.00 / 14,799.00€ at
Rhodes Mk 8-73 FX Deluxe
No customer rating available yet
$14,190.00 / £12,990.00 / 14,899.00€ at
Rhodes Mk 8-73 FX Classic
Customer rating: (1)
$12,390.00 / £10,890.00 / 12,499.00€ at
Rhodes V8 Download
Customer rating: (1)
$161.00 / £147.00 / 169.00€ at
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