Simple Synthesizer Advice

1000 Cutts

I started out on GarageBand, still use it to play around with ideas when travelling on iPad and then import it into logic. You get a lot of synths with the remix packs ( not sure if these are all included for free now)... Downside is you need to buy a Mac which as you are no doubt aware can be pricey...

martimu

It's surprisingly good and we have an old Macbook pro as our computer so was just sat there waiting. I've downloaded a few of the freebies but haven't seen the remix packs - so will check it out thank you!

Nakatsu_Hime

If your son gets the synth bug, and wants to invest in a decent synth from the good-old-days, a good start would be either the Casio CZ1000, or CZ101. These can still be picked up for quite reasonable prices.
The Phase-Distortion method used gives some really good sounds. On-board editing can be a challange, but you can get PC-based editors.

He'll probably want a DX7s or DX7-II, in which case, he'd better start saving now