Perhaps you are good at composing and playing music. You have a real talent and are keen on making a career as a musician. Naturally you want to play your own compositions. You might be a drummer, a guitarist or you may prefer to use a synthesizer. You might have learned to play an instrument of your choice quite well. But unless you understand your instrument thoroughly you will never make the grade a good professional musician.

If you settle on buying a synthesizer you must first learn about the instrument. You should be knowledgeable about its parts and features, the various brands that are available, and their prices. Let us consider how best to go about buying a synthesizer.

First of all, the synthesizer is one of the most expensive instruments that you can own. That said, you will want to weigh carefully the factors relating to learning, playing and composing on it.

First, be clear about what exactly you need the synthesizer for. Once you are clear about this, you need to consider your options on synthesizers. There are analog synthesizers, digital models, simple classical synthesizers or even software synthesizers offering a range of qualities including a high profile sound. Your decision must depend upon whether you need the synthesizer for your personal use or for professional performances. Based on this you should have a budget for buying the synthesizer that will meet your need.

If budget is a factor, you will want to find a synthesizer in an average price range. If you go for the low end, you may end up buying an instrument with an inferior keyboard that lacks the vital functions and does not last very long. If you go for the high end, you may end up with features that you will never use.

Before you make a decision to buy, you want to “test drive” the synthesizer. See what kind of sound it has, examine each function and pay special attention to the sound unit. Just as you would do when purchasing a car, try several different instruments and consult an expert, particularly if you are buying a used one.

Once you know what kind of synthesizer you want, you may consider buying a used instrument. If you decide an old synthesizer, examine it very carefully to satisfy yourself about its working condition at every level. Take particular care to check that the sound quality is not variable. Unlike a guitar or a violin, the sound quality of synthesizers does not improve with age. If the batteries are damaged the display may flicker. Make sure that every part of it is in good order.

Especially for a studio, or for the practiced musician who also composes, the workstation may be the best bet. Still a synthesizer, it includes many voices, special effects, drum kits, and a sequencer. You can create studio sound with just one piece of equipment if you choose this option.