I've posted this from old thread so that it is easier to read.(Rockhen)


"You can get some good bargains in sound modules these days, since most people rely on software synths on their computers.
As with everything, it's the unfashionable ones that are the best bargains. So a Roland TB909 will cost more than twice as much as a Yamaha TX81, which sounds just as interesting.
Roland stuff, even the old ones, hold their prices better than Korg or Yamaha, but really it comes down to what sounds you want.
Rolands have always been great for bass sounds.
Korgs specialise in dreamy, spacey sounds.
For strings and woodwind, it's hard to beat an EMU Synth module, especially the specialised orchestral units.
Yamaha are second best in each area, but probably the best all-rounders.
A basic GM sound module- with just the standard voices in the General Midi set will be way under £50.
The more original, multi voice, programmable one will be twice that, or even more- and there are still a few being made, though they all tend to be orientated towards electronic dance music sounds these days.
Cheers
Dave "