Question 1

How do I choose a synthesizer?

Robin Vincent · Accepted Answer

Your first consideration is going to be the cost because the price of a synthesizer can vary from around a hundred dollars, like a Behringer Crave, to many thousands, such as the Sequential Pro 3. Once you have an idea of your budget then the next factor will be the type of sound or synthesis you want to play with.
Do you want classic vintage sounds like the Mutuca FM? Do you want digital sounds with presets like the Korg Modwave? Are you after monophonic basslines and melody or big pads and multiple layers? Think about the sort of music you like and want to make and let that guide your decision and if you can, go to a music shop and try some out.

Question 2

What's the best synthesizer for beginners?

Robin Vincent · Accepted Answer

Something simple that has the ability to run its own tunes and can be easily expanded. That means a synth with a sequencer so you can enjoy the running of notes while you play with the sound design.
Good examples would be the TD-3 from Behringer (based on the classic Roland TB-303 bassline) or the Modal Craft Synth 2.0 for its unique range of sounds. For something larger with polyphony and a proper keyboard, I’d look at the Korg Minilogue XD as a great synth to start your synthesis journey with.

Question 3

How much is a good synthesizer?

Robin Vincent · Accepted Answer

Behringer has released a bunch of great synths from around $150 to $300 which offer a thoroughly decent synthesizer experience, from the TD-3 to the CAT. But the more you spend the greater the depth, the bigger the sound, and the wider the possibilities.
Pushing up towards $500, you could snag the Dreadbox Typhon, or a Korg Monologue or Behringer MS-1 monosynths.
You’d need to head above $500 to get into polysynths like the Dreadbox Nymphes, Arturia MiniFreak, and Korg Modwave.
Once you are past $1,000 then the world is your oyster with big keyboards, fat monosynths, and your choice of varied and astonishing synthesis — but great little synths don’t have to cost the earth.

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