If you’re curious about synths, I’d actually say it’s better to start with an instrument that’s standalone (that is, doesn’t need a MIDI controller). The HiChord is a good choice. I’ve personally had lots of fun with Orchid by Telepathic Instruments. And anything with a keyboard by KORG (including the VERY affordable volca line) is also a great starting point.
Once your first synth starts making sense, you’ll get the itch to buy a second, and it’ll be time to delve into MIDI :)
Ha. The Orchid was the first instrument I clicked on (in the Jamuary section) when I was trying to answer my own question.
Thank you for the recommendations. You're half way to a logicalincrements.com (I assume there's natural pairings between all these devices? it always looks like an array of devices cabled together.)