AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best General Synthesizers for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Arturia PolyBrute 61-Key Synthesizer ($2,619). Arturia AstroLab 88-Key Stage Keyboard gives you the most for the money at $2,110. Roland Fantom 8 EX 88-Key Workstation Keyboard leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 212 models across 36 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 1, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Weight20 kg
The PolyBrute is a seriously cool analog polysynth – a real throwback with modern capabilities. Its morphing engine and extensive modulation matrix allow for incredibly unique sounds, and the build quality feels solid. This is perfect for sound designers, experimental musicians, and anyone craving a truly analog experience that goes beyond the basics.
Pros
- Brute wave shaping creates uniquely complex, evolving timbres
- Dual filter design offers incredible tonal flexibility and warmth
- Matrix modulation system unlocks deep, experimental sound design
Cons
- The keybed, while velocity-sensitive, lacks the premium feel of higher-end action
- The sequencer, while capable, might feel limiting for complex arrangements
65AudioFu
Index↓ 1.1%since Aug 17$2,647 · Aug 17$2,619 now$2,619€2,344 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Roland Fantom 6 EX 61-Key Workstation Keyboard
Fantom-6 EX · Roland
30 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight15.3 kg
- Key actionWeighted keys
The Fantom-6 EX is a powerhouse workstation, blending Roland's best sound engines into a relatively compact package. It’s perfect for producers and performing musicians who need a wide palette of sounds and effects, particularly those drawn to classic analog emulations and modern textures. It's a serious instrument for serious players.
Pros
- ZEN-Core engine delivers immense sonic versatility and modern sounds.
- Pre-installed JD-800 expansion instantly provides a classic, sought-after voice.
- ACB engine faithfully recreates the Jupiter-8 and SH-101 character.
Cons
- 61-key action, while velocity-sensitive, lacks the depth of a full 88-key workstation.
- The weight, while manageable, makes it less ideal for frequent gigging or travel.
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,759 now$3,759€3,365 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Roland Fantom 7 EX 76-Key Workstation Keyboard
Fantom-7 EX · Roland
26 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight17.7 kg
- Key actionWeighted keys
The Fantom-7 EX is a powerhouse workstation – a real grab-bag of Roland's best sounds and engines. It's ideal for producers, composers, and keyboardists who need a ton of sonic options and don’t mind a bit of a learning curve to unlock its full potential. It’s a serious tool for creating complex, layered arrangements.
Pros
- ZEN-Core engine delivers immense sonic flexibility and modern sounds.
- ACB accurately recreates classic Roland synth character and warmth.
- Excellent keybed with aftertouch provides expressive performance capabilities.
Cons
- 76 keys are lighter, sacrificing some premium piano feel and stability.
- The sheer number of engines can be overwhelming for beginners to master.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,021 now$4,021€3,599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sequential Trigon-6 49-Key 6-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer
Trigon-6 · Sequential
34 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight9.5 kg
- Keys49 keys
- Key actionSemi-weighted keys
The Trigon-6 is a powerhouse for sound design and classic analog tones. It's a serious instrument for producers and synth enthusiasts craving that vintage Sequential sound, particularly if you're into pads, basses, and leads with a raw, unfiltered edge. The keybed is a nice surprise, but the limited keys are a consideration.
Pros
- Discrete VCOs deliver a fat, complex analog warmth.
- Semi-weighted keys offer nuanced velocity and aftertouch expression.
- Discrete filter design provides exceptional resonance and character.
Cons
- The 49-key keyboard limits performance for complex pieces.
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for many musicians.
64AudioFu
Index↑ 12.4%since Aug 17$3,676 · Aug 17$4,133 now$4,133€3,699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Arturia PolyBrute 12 61-Key Synthesizer
PolyBrute 12 · Arturia
37 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight22.8 kg
The PolyBrute 12 is a serious statement – a truly analog polyphonic beast. It’s built like a tank, with a fantastic feel and sounds that are both warm and capable of immense aggression. This is for sound designers, serious synth enthusiasts, and anyone craving a hands-on, expressive analog experience.
Pros
- Exceptional Steiner-Parker filter delivers uniquely warm, complex tones.
- Metalizer oscillator adds aggressive, metallic textures instantly.
- The Matrix modulation system offers unparalleled sound design flexibility.
Cons
- High price point puts it out of reach for many musicians.
- The sheer depth of the Matrix can be overwhelming for beginners.
63AudioFu
Index↓ 3.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$3,753 · Aug 17$3,619 now$3,619€3,239 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight16.9 kg
The Jupiter-X is a powerhouse for modern music production and stage performance. Its blend of classic Roland sounds with the flexibility of the ZEN-Core engine makes it a real creative hub – ideal for producers and keyboardists who want a broad palette of sounds in a relatively portable package. It's a significant investment, but the sonic possibilities are vast.
Pros
- ZEN-Core engine delivers exceptionally versatile and modern soundscapes
- Excellent emulation of classic Roland synths like the Juno-106 and Jupiter-8
- The rhythm section provides a surprisingly authentic TR-808/909 feel
Cons
- 61-key action, while lightweight, lacks the feel of a fully weighted piano
- The graphic display is somewhat basic and could benefit from higher resolution
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,624 now$2,624€2,349 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sequential Pro 3 37-Key 3-Voice Monophonic / Paraphonic Synthesizer
Pro 3 Special Edition · Sequential
36 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight12.25 kg
Sequential really knocked it out of the park with this Special Edition Pro 3. The walnut wood gives it a gorgeous, almost heirloom quality, and the foldable panel is a brilliant touch for gigging. This is a dream synth for sound designers and producers craving that classic Sequential sound with modern flexibility – perfect for those who want a statement piece and a powerhouse of sonic possibilities.
Pros
- Walnut wood panels elevate aesthetics and feel incredibly premium
- Foldable control panel enhances portability and performance flexibility
- Three distinct filter types offer unparalleled sonic versatility and character
Cons
- The 37-key layout limits dexterity for complex, fast passages
- Paraphonic nature restricts simultaneous note layering potential
62AudioFu
Index↑ 7.4%since Aug 17$2,944 · Aug 17$3,161 now$3,161€2,829 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight14.55 kg
The Muse is a seriously impressive instrument, offering that classic Moog sound with a modern, flexible design. It’s perfect for sound designers, composers, and players who want a powerful, expressive analog voice – though the price reflects its premium status. You'll be crafting lush pads, aggressive leads, and everything in between.
Pros
- Exceptional Moog filter character delivers rich, creamy analog warmth.
- Bi-timbral design unlocks complex, layered sonic textures easily.
- Macro controls offer intuitive sound design and performance flexibility.
Cons
- The 61-key layout feels a bit cramped for extensive multi-layered patches.
- High-end price point places it beyond many hobbyist or beginner budgets.
61AudioFu
Index↓ 1.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$3,272 · Aug 17$3,237 now$3,237€2,897 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Roland Fantom 8 EX 88-Key Workstation Keyboard
Fantom-8 EX · Roland
28 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight27.7 kg
The Fantom-8 EX is a powerhouse workstation – a true flagship. It’s an excellent choice for serious composers, producers, and performers who want a broad palette of sounds and a professional-grade keyboard action. Expect to spend some time mastering it, but the payoff is a remarkably versatile and expressive instrument.
Pros
- PHA-50 keyboard offers excellent, realistic piano feel.
- ZEN-Core engine provides incredible sonic flexibility and depth.
- ACB accurately recreates classic Roland analog sounds.
Cons
- Size and weight make it challenging for gigging musicians.
- Learning curve is steep due to the extensive feature set.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,322 now$4,322€3,869 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight22.2 kg
- Key actionWeighted keys
The AstroLab 88 is a powerhouse stage keyboard. It’s a fantastic all-in-one solution for producers and performers wanting a huge range of sounds and a premium keybed feel – just be prepared for a bit of a learning curve mastering all those engines.
Pros
- Excellent Fatar TP-40 keybed offers superb action and aftertouch.
- Diverse synthesis engines provide incredible sonic versatility and depth.
- Intuitive navigation wheel and screen streamline sound exploration and editing.
Cons
- The sheer number of engines can feel overwhelming for less experienced users.
- Physical size and weight make it less portable for frequent gigging.
69AudioFu
Index↓ 10.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$2,345 · Aug 17$2,110 now$2,110€1,889 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 212 general synthesizers
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Sequential Prophet-6 49-Key 6-Voice Polyphonic SynthesizerProphet 6 · Sequential59↑ 10.8%$4,244€3,799$4,244€3,799Check ↗
- 12
Roland Juno-106 61-Key Programmable Polyphonic SynthesizerJuno-X · Roland74Stable$1,820€1,629$1,820€1,629Check ↗
- 13
Oberheim OB-X8 61-Key 8-Voice SynthesizerOB-X8 · Oberheim57↑ 8.2%$5,920€5,299$5,920€5,299Check ↗
- 14
Novation Summit 61-Key 16-Voice SynthesizerSummit · Novation56↑ 9.1%$2,680€2,399$2,680€2,399Check ↗
- 15
Sequential Prophet Rev2 61-Key 8-Voice Polyphonic SynthesizerProphet REV2-8 HeadphoneBundle · Sequential · 2 finishes56↑ 13.9%$3,015€2,699$3,015€2,699Check ↗
- 16
Waldorf Iridium Desktop SynthesizerIridium Keyboard · Waldorf55Stable$2,859€2,559$2,859€2,559Check ↗
- 17
Sequential Prophet-5 61-Key 5-Voice Polyphonic SynthesizerProphet 5 · Sequential55↑ 6.8%$4,240€3,795$4,240€3,795Check ↗
- 18
Sequential Prophet-10 61-Key 10-Voice Polyphonic SynthesizerProphet 10 · Sequential55↑ 6.3%$5,227€4,679$5,227€4,679Check ↗
- 19
Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave 24-Voice 61-Key Wavetable Synthesizer3rd Wave · Groove Synthesis55Stable$6,356€5,689$6,356€5,689Check ↗
- 20
Mellotron M4000D MiniM4000D Mini Black · Mellotron · 5 finishes58Stable$2,457€2,199$2,457€2,199Check ↗
- 21
Arturia AstroLab 61-Key Stage KeyboardAstroLab 61 Silver · Arturia74↓ 10.0%$1,598€1,430$1,598€1,430Check ↗
- 22
Yamaha MODX M8 88-Key 16-Voice SynthesizerMODX M8 · Yamaha62Stable$2,167€1,940$2,167€1,940Check ↗
- 23
UDO Audio Super 6 12-Voice Polyphonic Binaural Analog-Hybrid…Super 6 Blue · UDO Audio53Stable$2,894€2,590$2,894€2,590Check ↗
- 24
Sequential OB-6 49-Key 6-Voice Polyphonic SynthesizerOB-6 · Sequential53↑ 9.1%$4,240€3,795$4,240€3,795Check ↗
- 25
ASM Leviasynth 61-Key 16-voice Algorithmic SynthesizerLeviasynth Keyboard · ASM51↓ 5.9%$3,048€2,728$3,048€2,728Check ↗
- 26
Kurzweil K2088 88-Key Synthesizer WorkstationK2088 · Kurzweil51Stable$2,568€2,299$2,568€2,299Check ↗
- 27
UDO Audio Super Gemini 20-Voice 61-Key Bi-Timbral SynthesizerSuper Gemini White · UDO Audio49Stable$4,681€4,190$4,681€4,190Check ↗
- 28
Roland FANTOM-08 88-Key Workstation KeyboardFantom-08 · Roland62Stable$1,943€1,739$1,943€1,739Check ↗
- 29
Arturia AstroLab 61-Key Stage KeyboardAstroLab · Arturia71↓ 3.2%$1,438€1,287$1,438€1,287Check ↗
- 30
Moog Subsequent 37 Analog SynthSubsequent 37 · Moog63↓ 1.8%$1,842€1,649$1,842€1,649Check ↗
- 31
Yamaha MODX M7 76-Key 16-Voice SynthesizerMODX M7 · Yamaha61Stable$1,933€1,730$1,933€1,730Check ↗
- 32
Sequential Prophet Rev2 61-Key 16-Voice Polyphonic SynthesizerProphet REV2-16 · Sequential47↑ 10.8%$3,451€3,089$3,451€3,089Check ↗
- 33
Roland FANTOM-07 76-Key Workstation KeyboardFantom-07 · Roland62Stable$1,775€1,589$1,775€1,589Check ↗
- 34
Expressive E Osmose 49-Key 24-Voice Polyphonic SynthesizerOsmose · Expressive E61Stable$1,786€1,599$1,786€1,599Check ↗
- 35
Roland Jupiter-Xm 37-Key SynthesizerJupiter-Xm · Roland62Stable$1,731€1,549$1,731€1,549Check ↗
- 36
Clavia Nord Lead A1Clavia Nord · 2 finishes63↓ 5.7%$1,675€1,499$1,675€1,499Check ↗
- 37
Yamaha CK88 Digital Stage PianoCK88 · Yamaha · 2 finishes67Stable$1,429€1,279$1,429€1,279Check ↗
- 38
Yamaha MODX M6 61-Key 16-Voice SynthesizerMODX M6 · Yamaha63Stable$1,553€1,390$1,553€1,390Check ↗
- 39
UDO Audio DMNO BlackUDO Audio · 2 finishes42Stable$3,317€2,969$3,317€2,969Check ↗
- 40
Roland FANTOM-06 61-Key Workstation KeyboardFantom-06 · Roland65Stable$1,439€1,288$1,439€1,288Check ↗
- 41
UDO Audio Super 8 Polyphonic Hybrid Keyboard SynthesizerSuper 8 White · UDO Audio41↑ 3.1%$3,797€3,399$3,797€3,399Check ↗
- 42
ASM Hydrasynth DeluxeASM58↓ 11.0%$1,719€1,539$1,719€1,539Check ↗
- 43
Oberheim TEO-5 44-Key 5-Voice SynthesizerTEO-5 · Oberheim57↑ 9.7%$1,764€1,579$1,764€1,579Check ↗
- 44
Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field Portable Synthesizer WorkstationOP-1 field · Teenage Engineering52↓ 5.9%$1,988€1,779$1,988€1,779Check ↗
- 45
Moog Minimoog Bob Moog Tribute Ed.Moog39Stable$5,361€4,799$5,361€4,799Check ↗
- 46
Moog Geddy Lee Minimoog Model D 44-Key Monophonic SynthesizerGeddy Lee Minimoog Model D · Moog39Stable$5,798€5,190$5,798€5,190Check ↗
- 47
Clavia Nord Wave 2Clavia Nord38↓ 3.6%$2,680€2,399$2,680€2,399Check ↗
- 48
Roland JUNO-D8 88-Key SynthesizerJuno-D8 · Roland63Stable$1,295€1,159$1,295€1,159Check ↗
- 49
Sequential Take 5 44-Key 5-Voice Compact Polyphonic SynthesizerTake 5 · Sequential53↑ 8.6%$1,764€1,579$1,764€1,579Check ↗
- 50
Korg Wavestate 37-Key Wave Sequencing SynthesizerWavestate SE · Korg61Stable$1,317€1,179$1,317€1,179Check ↗
General Synthesizers by the numbers
Measured across all 246 models we track, not a sample.
Median $814 — half of all general synthesizers here cost less.
median of 187 models · 1.12 kg–15 kg
most common · 41 models
median of 22 models · 25–88
How to choose the best general synthesizers
Modulation Capabilities
Advanced players live and die by modulation. We're talking LFOs with multiple waveforms, flexible routing options (cross-mod, phase syncing, etc.), and deep control over depth, rate, and destination. A limited modulation matrix is a dealbreaker.
Architecture Flexibility
Is it a simple VA synth, or can you really twist it into something unexpected? Hybrid architectures (like Serum's wavetable-subtractive combo) or modular-style routing give you the most creative headroom.
Hands-On Control
Forget menu-diving. We need knobs, sliders, and assignable buttons for immediate, tactile control. The more direct access you have to crucial parameters, the faster you can sculpt sounds on the fly, especially when gigging.
Sound Engine Depth
Beyond oscillators and filters, consider features like advanced effects (reverb, delay, distortion - not just the basics), step sequencers, arpeggiators with complex patterns, and the ability to layer and process multiple voices.
Usability & Workflow
A complex synth shouldn't be a frustrating experience. The layout, interface, and overall workflow need to be logical and intuitive, even when pushing the synth to its limits. A steep learning curve is fine, but it shouldn't be a barrier to creativity.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're past the presets and chasing something deeper from your synths. You're not just looking for a cool sound; you want a platform for sonic exploration, something that'll actually inspire you to dial in that elusive, evolving texture for your next track. This isn't about beginner-friendly workstations - we're talking about synths that demand, and reward, a serious investment of time and effort. Let's dive into what's out there for the advanced player.
Don't fall for the 'more knobs = better synth' trap. Sometimes, complexity just adds unnecessary noise. Pay attention to the quality of the filters - a muddy, undefined filter will ruin a perfectly good oscillator.
And be honest with yourself about your skill level; a truly complex synth will take time to master, and you don't want to be overwhelmed. Used gear is your friend - you can often snag a pro-level synth for a fraction of the new price, but be prepared to invest time in learning its quirks.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 246 general synthesizers from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between a 'general synth' and a workstation?
A general synth focuses on sound generation and manipulation - it's a tool for crafting specific sounds. Workstations are often all-in-one production environments with sequencing, sampling, and arrangement capabilities, which can be limiting if you're just after sound design.
Is a steeper learning curve always a bad thing?
Not necessarily. A challenging synth can push you to learn new techniques and expand your sonic palette. But it's important to be realistic about the time commitment required.
I'm on a budget. What should I prioritize?
Prioritize modulation options and a flexible sound engine. A synth with a limited number of knobs but a deep modulation matrix will often be more rewarding than one with a ton of knobs but little routing flexibility.
What about software synths? Are they a viable alternative?
Absolutely. Many software synths offer incredible power and flexibility, often at a lower cost. The downside is the potential latency and the reliance on a computer. Hardware synths offer a more tactile and immediate experience, which many players prefer.
I'm struggling to get sounds to cut through the mix. What am I doing wrong?
Check your filter cutoff and resonance - a little boost in those areas can often make a huge difference. Also, pay attention to your gain staging and EQ - a synth that's too quiet or muddy will get lost in the mix.
