Are you wondering which analog synthesizer will be the next to join your studio / home studio?
Well, you’re in luck because in this article we will talk exclusively about analog synths.
And not just any synths: I have prepared a list of 10 of the best analog synthesizers.
So let’s be clear: it’s impossible to make a truly exhaustive list of ALL the “best” synths since they all have their strengths, their weaknesses… and potentially we could also look at vintage synthesizers that are overpriced.
And end up with an article that never ends, literally! 😀
Also, I have of course made a selection: I offer you my view of the best synths currently available on the market while keeping to relatively reasonable prices (the cheapest costs around a hundred euros, and most are below €800).
Let’s go!
► Don’t forget to check out my comparison table at the end of the article, and if needed, I also invite you to read my recommendations for beginner synthesizers.
1. Behringer TD-3
Brand: Behringer
Polyphony: monophonic
Keyboard: there are keys for programming notes, but no real keyboard
Arpeggiator: no
Sequencer: yes, 16 steps
A few years ago, I wouldn’t have imagined including a Behringer device in a list of “best analog synthesizers”.
However, time has passed and clearly the brand offers products that do the job, sound good, and have a lifespan similar to products from other brands.
And this is particularly true for the TD-3, which, as its name somewhat indicates, is a clone of the famous Roland TB-303 whose prices have now become completely astronomical on the market (€2500-3000).
Here, we have a synth that costs around a hundred euros, or maybe a little more depending on the shops and any promotional periods.
And for the record, if you want to make effective bass lines with an “acid” vibe (since that’s THE main use of this type of synth), don’t hesitate: the Behringer TD-3 does the job perfectly.
Granted, the sound is not 100% identical to the original machine, but it remains a powerful tool that sounds good.
And if you happen to be a bit comfortable with a soldering iron, you can visit Maffez’s website, in English, which lists modifications you can make to the machine to bring it even closer to the original (I’ve done a few on my own TD-3, it’s worth it).
► See the current price of the Behringer TD-3 at: Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
2. Behringer Pro-800
Brand: Behringer
Polyphony: polyphonic (8 voices)
Keyboard: no
Arpeggiator: yes
Sequencer: yes
Second Behringer synth (but I promise we’ll move on to other brands after this one 😉 ).
The Behringer PRO-800 is an 8-voice polyphonic analog synthesizer that pays homage to the legendary Prophet 600 from Sequential Circuits while incorporating modern features.
It features 2 voltage-controlled oscillators (VCO) per voice, a 24 dB/oct low-pass filter (VCF), and of course a voltage-controlled amplifier (VCA) — all providing warm and organic sounds that made 80s synthesizers famous.
And the Pro-800 doesn’t just replicate the past! It also includes modern features such as built-in memory capable of storing up to 400 patches, leaving plenty of room to save a lot of sounds.
In Unison mode, it allows for massive sound generation with its 16 oscillators, perfect for leads, pads, or powerful basses. With the ability to combine up to 6 different waveforms (saw, triangle, and pulse for each of the two oscillators), the sonic possibilities are quite vast, even if it often retains a somewhat vintage character that not everyone may be looking for.
Also noteworthy is the “Poly Mod” function, which allows oscillator A to be modulated by oscillator B, thus enabling more complex sound textures.
A very good synth with a very pleasant sound.
► See the current price of the Behringer Pro-800 at: Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
In my opinion, the Typhon stands out for its compactness as well as its quite intuitive user interface. All the analog components have direct controls on the front panel, allowing for quick and easy access to the settings of the oscillators, the filter, and the envelopes. This configuration allows for tactile and immediate interaction with the synth, promoting sound experimentation and real-time creation.
But at the same time, this somewhat “immediate” aspect makes it, I find, a good analog synthesizer for people who may not yet be very experienced, especially since the price is quite reasonable.
Finally, it should be noted that the Dreadbox Typhon is also equipped with:
- 12 high-quality stereo DSP effects developed by Sinevibes. These effects include distortion, bit crusher, chorus, ensemble, flanger, delay, and reverb, all managed in 32 bits at 96kHz, which of course greatly expands the sound possibilities — especially since you can also use the audio jack input at the back of the device for the synth to serve as an effects box;
- a 32-step sequencer (which can serve as a modulation source);
- 256 memory slots for your presets.
► See the current price of the Dreadbox Typhon at: Thomann Woodbrass
4. Korg Minilogue
Brand: Korg
Polyphony: polyphonic (4 voices)
Keyboard: yes
Arpeggiator: no
Sequencer: yes (16 steps)
Another interesting analog synthesizer while keeping reasonable prices: the Minilogue from Korg, which has been on the market for quite some time but remains completely relevant in terms of sound.
It is a 4-voice polyphonic analog synthesizer with a 37-key keyboard. The whole unit has a rather elegant design, which generally looks good in studios & home studios (notably appreciated is the presence of wood on the back panel of the machine).
Equipped with two oscillators per voice (synchronizable) and a noise generator as sound sources, the Minilogue allows for fine adjustment of the audio signal thanks to interesting wave shaping possibilities, a ring modulator, and a nice resonant filter that can be set either in 12 dB/octave or 24 dB/octave mode.
It is also worth noting the integration of a delay effect, which can be handy in certain situations, as well as a built-in mini-oscilloscope that displays the waveform in real time, making the user experience both pleasant and intuitive.
In addition, there are 200 memory slots for presets (of which 100 are user-customizable) as well as a 16-step sequencer (which is a bit limiting, but it’s better to have a small one than none at all).
And of course, all of this sounds very pleasant, as you will hear in the video below.
► See the current price of the Korg Minilogue at: Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
5. Novation Bass Station II
Brand: Novation
Polyphony: monophonic
Keyboard: yes
Arpeggiator: yes
Sequencer: yes (32 steps)
The Novation Bass Station II is a fairly classic analog synthesizer in terms of its offerings, but capable of producing sounds that are as warm and soft as they are powerful and aggressive.
Equipped with two oscillators and a sub to enhance the bass, as well as a noise generator and a ring modulator, it excels at creating rich and varied timbres right from the start, often with a certain bite and a rather specific color in terms of sound.
Additionally, it offers two distinct types of analog filters: the classic multi-mode filter from the first version of the Bass Station and the 24dB/octave Acid filter, which has a slightly darker sound.
Also noteworthy is the presence of two LFOs (triangle, saw, square, and sample&hold waveforms) and two complete ADSR envelopes that allow for interesting modulations to be added to the produced sounds.
While it is monophonic, and thus rather reserved for playing bass lines (as its name suggests) or leads, the integration of a step sequencer and an arpeggiator allows for a boost in creativity. You can indeed record notes, ties, pauses, and rhythms in real time, store them, and recall them for use with any patch.
► See the current price of the Novation Bass Station II at: Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
6. Moog Minitaur
Brand: Moog
Polyphony: monophonic
Keyboard: no
Arpeggiator: no
Sequencer: no
The Minitaur is a synth that I really love from Moog, because I find the quality/price ratio to be really excellent.
Sure, it’s not the most versatile synth in the world, since it is primarily designed to play bass lines (especially since it is limited by design, you can’t play all the notes you want in the highs).
BUT WHAT A SOUND!
You can really achieve deep basses, either very round or very aggressive, while enjoying the famous Moog resonant filter that has a very recognizable but so pleasant sound!
In terms of specifications, it features two syncable oscillators, two envelopes, an LFO that can affect the pitch and/or the filter, and a large number of hidden options accessible with some clever manipulations.
Well, clever… everything is indicated in the manual. You just have to memorize it a bit.
And of course, even though basslines are the comfort zone of this analog synth, you can do quite a few different things with it: I have the video below as proof, for which I made a complete track using only the Moog Minitaur.
► See the current price of the Moog Minitaur at: Thomann Woodbrass
7. Soma Lyra 8
Brand: Soma Laboratory
Polyphony: polyphonic (8 voices)
Keyboard: yes but special
Arpeggiator: no
Sequencer: no
Among analog synthesizers, the Lyra 8 from Soma is a bit of a UFO.
Indeed, it is a particularly experimental synth, but it allows you to generate sound textures quite easily, especially useful if you make ambient music.
The LYRA is inspired by the interaction between living organisms: it contains 8 sound generators, which are not quite similar to classic VCOs.
Each generator (which we will call “voice”) is separated into pairs, and the pairs themselves are divided into groups, allowing for sound interactions: the voices can function either as an electric organ or in FM mode (but the exact behavior of the FM depends on the envelope!).
In addition, there is a complex LFO, whose waveform comes from the combination of two other LFOs, a two-line echo delay (with cross-feedback and resonance possibilities between the lines) and a distortion whose behavior can be influenced by the delay.
So clearly: we are dealing with a special machine that offers special, original sounds. There aren’t many analog synthesizers like this on the market, clearly!
But if you love experimentation, especially in the context of ambient music, it’s definitely worth checking out this synth!
► See the current price of the Soma Lyra 8 at: Thomann
8. Moog Grandmother
Brand: Moog
Polyphony: monophonic
Keyboard: yes (Fatar 32 keys)
Arpeggiator: yes
Sequencer: yes (3 sequences, 256 notes)
The Moog Grandmother is a semi-modular analog synthesizer that will delight musicians looking for an instrument with its own character.
Indeed, beyond its vintage design, the sound that comes out of the Grandmother is truly impressive, especially since Moog did not limit itself to building a basic synthesizer: numerous features have been integrated to satisfy all kinds of uses — to the point that even constraints and limitations become conducive to creativity.
Equipped with a high-quality 32-key Fatar keyboard, this monophonic analog synthesizer includes two oscillators offering four selectable waveforms, a noise generator, a classic Moog ladder filter, a 6 dB/octave high-pass filter, an ADSR envelope, and an LFO with four waveforms as well.
What is interesting is that since it is a semi-modular analog synthesizer, you can patch the different parts of the circuit as you wish: on the machine itself, or why not by integrating it into a setup with other modular/semi-modular synthesizers.
And on top of all this, there is an arpeggiator/sequencer that I find quite effective, and a spring reverb (based on the Moog 905) into which you can send sound coming from both the synth itself and another machine.
In short, a very beautiful analog synthesizer with a strong character!
► See the current price of the Moog Grandmother on: Thomann Woodbrass Amazon
9. Sequential Take 5
Brand: Sequential
Polyphony: polyphonic (5 voices)
Keyboard: yes (Fatar 44 keys with aftertouch)
Arpeggiator: yes
Sequencer: yes (64 steps)
The Sequential Take 5 is a compact and powerful polyphonic synthesizer, ideal for those discovering subtractive synthesis as well as for professionals looking for a synth that isn’t too big without compromising on features.
With its 44 full-size keys and a width of only 64 centimeters, the Take 5 easily fits into any studio or on stage.
One thing I really appreciate is that its intuitive control panel offers immediate access to all the essential sound shaping functions, while its keyboard split function allows you to extend the playing range by dividing the 3 and a half octaves into two distinct performance zones.
The Take 5 derives its distinctive sound from five voices powered by two analog VCOs, a sub-oscillator, and a noise generator, passing through a 4-pole analog filter from the Prophet-5 lineage.
The result is a classic brand sound, both smooth, warm, and punchy, that will fit into many tracks. Indeed, despite the somewhat vintage character of the sounds (there’s even a “Vintage” mode to add even more color), I find the Take 5 to be a keyboard that can integrate very well into modern productions.
In other words: this analog synthesizer has a real character, but it is not so pronounced as to constrain the musical style.
By the way, we also note the presence of two LFOs, two ADSR envelopes, complex modulation options, an arpeggiator, and a 64-step polyphonic sequencer.
Sure, it’s not cheap, but I find the quality/price ratio to be really excellent.
► See the current price of the Sequential Take 5 at: Thomann Woodbrass
10. Moog Subsequent 37
Brand: Moog
Polyphony: monophonic and paraphonic (2 notes)
Keyboard: yes (37 keys)
Arpeggiator: yes
Sequencer: yes (64 steps)
It is with pleasure that I conclude this list with another synthesizer from Moog, a brand I really appreciate for its sound as well as for the overall build quality.
The Subsequent 37, building on the award-winning design of the previously existing Sub 37, is a beautiful analog synthesizer featuring a 37-key keyboard (with velocity and aftertouch management), and its control panel boasts no less than 40 potentiometers and 74 buttons.
Needless to say, you have plenty of control over the sound!
Indeed, based on clearly defined sound sources — namely the two oscillators, the sub-osc, the noise generator, and possibly an external sound source, you have everything you need on the synth to generate creative melodies or rumbling bass lines:
- two configurable modulation sources (LFOs) that are easy to assign;
- a complete mixer;
- two complex DAHDSR envelope generators;
- classic Moog resonant ladder filter with control over saturation amount, keyboard tracking, and filter slope;
- precise glide control;
- arpeggiator and complete sequencer.
And of course, it sounds wonderful: it’s no coincidence that this synth is found in tons of professional studios around the world.
In short, a very beautiful machine: certainly the entry ticket is high, but what a pleasure to play with it for decades afterward!
► See the current price of the Moog Subsequent 37 at: Thomann Woodbrass
Comparison table of the best analog synthesizers
To help you in your choices, I have consolidated information about all the synths mentioned above in the table below.
Tip: you can scroll horizontally through the table using the scrollbar (on PC) or by dragging it left and right (on smartphone).
| Behringer TD-3 | Behringer Pro-800 | Dreadbox Typhon | Korg Minilogue | Novation Bass Station II | Moog Minitaur | Soma Lyra 8 | Moog Grandmother | Sequential Take 5 | Moog Subsequent 37 | |
| Image |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Polyphony | mono | poly (8 voices) | mono | poly (4 voices) | mono | mono | poly (8 voices) | mono | poly (5 voices) | mono / para (2 notes) |
| Keyboard | no, not really | no | no | 37 keys | 25 keys | no | yes but special | 32 Fatar keys | 44 Fatar keys + aftertouch | 37 keys + aftertouch |
| Arpeggiator | no | yes | no | no | yes | no | no | yes | yes | yes |
| Sequencer | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | yes | yes | yes |
| Leads | + | +++ | ++ | ++ | ++ | ++ | + | +++ | +++ | +++ |
| Basslines | +++ | ++ | ++ | ++ | +++ | +++ | + | +++ | +++ | +++ |
| Pads | + | +++ | + | ++ | + | + | +++ | + | +++ | + |
| See the price on | Thomann Woodbrass Amazon | Thomann Woodbrass Amazon | Thomann Woodbrass | Thomann Woodbrass Amazon | Thomann Woodbrass Amazon | Thomann Woodbrass | Thomann | Thomann Woodbrass Amazon | Thomann Woodbrass | Thomann Woodbrass |
In conclusion
If you are looking for an analog synthesizer, I have no doubt that you will find what you need in this article, whether you are a beginner or a professional.
Feel free to also add your suggestions or favorites in the comments below 🙂
And of course, you can ask me your questions.
► Don’t forget to also check out my recommendations for beginner synthesizers, it might give you some ideas as well