Synthesizers are a frequently used tool in many home musicians aresenals. They offer a seemingly infinite array of sound design possibilities. The three main types of synthesizers covered in this list will be polyphonic and monophonic. Polyphonic synthesizers allow you to play multiple note at the same time. In contrast, monophonic synthesizers can only play one not at a given time. This makes them a bit less versatile then polyphonic synthesizers, however they tend to really shine when used to create synth basses and leads. Paraphonic synthesizers are similar to monophonic synthesizers but allow you to control two oscilators seperately.
1. Korg MS-20 Mini Monophonic Analogue Synthesizer – $629.99
The Korg MS-20 mini is a remake of the classic Korg MS-20 which was released in 1978. The circuitry inside the MS-20 mini has been reproduced exactly the same as the original. This monophonic synthesizer features two oscilators. Furthermore, the MS-20 has a semi modular design meaning that you can use patch cables to alter the signal path and modulate different parameters.
2. IK Multimedia UNO Synth Pro 37-Key Analog Synthesizer Keyboard – $699.99
The Uno Synth Pro features a 37 key semi-weighted keybed to enhance playability. Furthermore, the Uno Synth Pro comes with 3 continuously variable waveshape oscillators which can be hard synched to create more harmonically complex tones. The Uno synth also features 12 high quality onboard effects and 256 editable user presets.
3. Korg Minilogue XD Polyphonic Analogue Synthesizer – $729.99
The Korg Minilogue is a 37 key polyphonic analogue synthesizer. The minilogue features 4 voice polyphony and 4 different voice modes(POLY, UNISON, CHORD, ARP/LATCH). The Minilogue is a very beginner friendly yet powerful synth with onboard digital effects and the ability to load in user generated waveforms.
4. Moog Subsequent 25 25-Key 2-Note Paraphonic Analog Synthesizer – $999
Moog is probably the most iconic and well known brand within the synthesizer market. Known for the quality craftsmanship of their instruments and the rich sonically dense sound of those instruments. The Moog Sub 25 is no different from any other offering by moog in that regard. The Subsequent 25 is a two note paraphonic synthesizer with 3 oscillators and 5 LFO modes(triangle, square, sawtooth, sample & hold, and ramp). While the Subsequent 25 features an analog sound engine, it also integrates many digital features for interfacing with DAWs such as full MIDI implementation. The small size and weight (16lbs) of the Sub 25 makes it extremely portable.
5. Behringer DeepMind 12 True Analog 12-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer – $879
The behringer deepmind is fully analog polyphonic that produces sound reminiscent to that of iconic synthesizers of the 70s and 80s. Furthermore, the deepmind 12 features a 49 note keyboard with 2 oscillators per voice, and offers a full suite of onboard effects that can be used to further shape your sound. The deepmind is potentially the most versatile synthesizer on this list with the ability to emulate anything from JUNO-06 like pads, strings, and keys to deep synth bass and lead patches.