AudioFu
Warwick Alien Deluxe Hybrid 4 LH… ↓ 33.4% $671Allen & Heath SQ5 ↓ 28.8% $2,912Warwick Alien Deluxe 5 NT LH ↓ 27.8% $727Allen & Heath SQ5 Case Bundle I ↓ 26.7% $3,170Casio AP-S200 BN ↓ 23.9% $963Allen & Heath SQ5, Case, DX168/X… ↓ 21.7% $5,187Dangerous Music 2 Bus+ ↓ 21.0% $4,033Orange PPC212-COB ↓ 20.6% $586Orange Micro Dark ↓ 20.2% $195Seymour Duncan SHR-1B Hot Rails… ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SHR1N BLK ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1N BLK ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Bridge… ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Creme ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1N Creme ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Parchment ↓ 19.3% $122

AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best General Synthesizers for Professional 2026

The top pick is Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave 24-Voice 61-Key Wavetable Synthesizer ($6,375). Sequential Trigon-6 49-Key 6-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer gives you the most for the money at $4,145. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 208 models across 36 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 11, 2026

208models in this chart
36brands
$839median price
96price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All General Synthesizers Showing: For Professional · clear
Price
Skill level
Brand

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

  1. Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave 24-Voice 61-Key Wavetable Synthesizer

    3rd Wave · Groove Synthesis

    18 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight12.3 kg
    • Key actionSemi-weighted keys

    The 3rd Wave is a serious beast—a hybrid synth that marries the precision of wavetable synthesis with the warmth of analogue filtering. It's designed for sound designers, electronic music producers, and anyone craving a truly unique and expressive instrument. Be prepared to invest time to master it, but the sonic rewards are immense.

    Pros

    • Rossum filter delivers exceptional warmth and dynamic response.
    • PPG2 wavetables offer a unique, instantly recognizable vintage character.
    • Comprehensive wavetable creation tools foster deep sonic exploration.

    Cons

    • The sheer depth of features demands a significant learning curve.
    • Premium-priced, limiting accessibility for many musicians.
    54AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand68
    • Lineup39
    • Price51
    • Specs67
    • Maker19
    Stablesince Aug 14
    $6,386 · Aug 14$6,375 now
    $6,375€5,689 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  2. Oberheim OB-X8 61-Key 8-Voice Synthesizer

    OB-X8 · Oberheim

    38 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight12.07 kg
    • Keys61 keys

    The OB-X8 is a stunning recreation of a legend, capturing that iconic Oberheim sound with modern refinements. It’s an exceptional choice for serious synth players and sound designers who crave that vintage warmth and bi-timbral capabilities—especially those recreating classic 80s sounds or building lush, layered textures.

    Pros

    • Discrete SEM oscillators deliver that classic, fat Oberheim analog warmth.
    • Walnut sidewalls elevate the build quality and aesthetic significantly.
    • Bi-timbral capability provides unparalleled sonic flexibility for layering and splits.

    Cons

    • The 61-key layout limits its appeal for players accustomed to full 88-key ranges.
    • The price point places it firmly in the high-end, professional synthesizer category.
    58AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand84
    • Lineup39
    • Price26
    • Specs67
    • Maker31
    ↑ 8.2%since Aug 14
    $5,490 · Aug 14$5,938 now
    $5,938€5,299 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  3. Moog Geddy Lee Minimoog Case Bundle

    Moog

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight14.5 kg

    This is a special limited edition synth signed by Geddy Lee, perfect for fans who want that classic Moog tone. It comes with two Rush vinyl records and a certificate, making it a great collector's item. The built-in noise generator adds a fun texture that standard synths usually lack. If you love the raw sound of the 70s, this bundle is a solid choice.

    Pros

    • Geddy Lee signature model with special satin red finish
    • Includes two vinyl records and a signed certificate
    • Features dedicated noise generator for unique textures

    Cons

    • No polyphony count specified in the description
    • Limited connection options with only one jack listed
    24AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup39
    • Price50
    • Specs33
    • Maker70
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$6,264 now
    $6,264€5,590 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  4. Moog Geddy Lee Minimoog Model D

    Moog

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight14.5 kg

    This is a dream synth for any serious Moog enthusiast or Rush fan. The Geddy Lee Model D delivers that classic Minimoog punch with a touch more warmth thanks to the VCA mod, and the included goodies are just icing on the cake. It's a statement piece and a sonic powerhouse for basslines and lead sounds.

    Pros

    • The satin red finish is stunning and feels exceptionally durable.
    • Modified VCA delivers a warmer, more controlled low-end response.
    • Geddy Lee's signature adds significant collector's value and prestige.

    Cons

    • The 44-key keyboard limits its versatility for complex arrangements.
    • Its substantial weight makes it less ideal for gigging musicians.
    43AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup39
    • Price72
    • Specs33
    • Maker70
    ↓ 7.3%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $6,274 · Aug 14$5,816 now
    $5,816€5,190 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  5. Sequential Prophet-10 61-Key 10-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer

    Prophet 10 · Sequential

    28 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight14.06 kg

    The Prophet 10 is a beautiful, authentic recreation of the classic Prophet-5 architecture, expanded for modern use. It delivers that instantly recognizable, warm analog tone with incredible depth, and the Vintage Knob makes tweaking a breeze. This is a dream synth for serious analog enthusiasts and sound designers seeking a truly vintage vibe.

    Pros

    • Exceptional CEM 3340 oscillator warmth; truly vintage Prophet sound
    • Highly flexible filter options emulate Prophet-5 revisions
    • Velocity-sensitive Fatar keyboard offers excellent playability and expression

    Cons

    • High-end price point places it out of reach for many musicians
    • Limited modulation options compared to more modern synthesizers
    57AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand77
    • Lineup39
    • Price38
    • Specs33
    • Maker76
    ↑ 4.0%since Aug 14
    $5,042 · Aug 14$5,243 now
    $5,243€4,679 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  6. Moog Minimoog Bob Moog Tribute Ed.

    Moog

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight14.2 kg

    This is a beautiful, warm-sounding synth for soloists who love classic analog tones. The oak case looks great, and the four oscillators mix together nicely with added noise. However, it only plays one note at a time and lacks built-in effects, so you'll need pedals for more sound. It suits players who want a simple, focused voice without the complexity of polyphony.

    Pros

    • Oak housing gives it a warm, classic look.
    • Four oscillators create rich, complex waveforms.
    • Pink and white noise generators add texture.

    Cons

    • Monophonic design prevents chord playing.
    • No built-in effects like reverb or delay.
    39AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup39
    • Price50
    • Specs33
    • Maker70
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$5,378 now
    $5,378€4,799 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  7. UDO Audio Super Gemini 20-Voice 61-Key Bi-Timbral Synthesizer

    Super Gemini White · UDO Audio

    4 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight14.5 kg
    • Key actionSemi-weighted keys

    The Super Gemini White is a powerhouse – a seriously creative tool for sound designers and composers who crave a deep, analogue feel with modern flexibility. Its dual-layer architecture and binaural processing really set it apart, offering a unique sonic palette. This is a premium-priced synth designed for those who want to dive deep and sculpt truly unique sounds.

    Pros

    • Exceptional binaural analog signal path creates immersive, wide stereo soundscapes.
    • The FPGA-based oscillators deliver a surprising range of sonic textures and precision.
    • Velocity and polyphonic aftertouch drastically enhance expressive performance capabilities.

    Cons

    • The semi-weighted keybed, while functional, lacks the nuanced feel of a fully weighted action.
    • The complex architecture demands a significant learning curve to truly master its potential.
    45AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand37
    • Lineup39
    • Price50
    • Specs67
    • Maker50
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$4,695 now
    $4,695€4,190 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  8. 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
    Index
    • Demand77
    • Lineup39
    • Price50
    • Specs33
    • Maker86
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$4,336 now
    $4,336€3,869 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  9. Sequential Trigon-6 49-Key 6-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer

    Trigon-6 · Sequential

    33 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.
    65AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand81
    • Lineup39
    • Price17
    • Specs100
    • Maker76
    ↑ 11.1%since Aug 14
    $3,730 · Aug 14$4,145 now
    $4,145€3,699 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  10. Sequential Prophet-6 49-Key 6-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer

    Prophet 6 · Sequential

    30 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight9.3 kg
    • Key actionSemi-weighted keys

    The Prophet 6 delivers that classic Sequential sound – lush, warm, and undeniably analog. It's a fantastic choice for synth enthusiasts and sound designers craving a vintage vibe with modern sequencing capabilities; its relatively compact size makes it studio-friendly, though its weight is something to consider.

    Pros

    • Rich, analog warmth thanks to discrete VCOs and filter
    • Excellent build quality with sturdy metal chassis and solid keybed
    • Versatile arpeggiator and step sequencer inspire creative sequencing

    Cons

    • Limited polyphony (6 voices) restricts complex layering
    • Keybed action, while decent, lacks the nuance of high-end weighted action
    59AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand79
    • Lineup39
    • Price13
    • Specs67
    • Maker76
    ↑ 12.2%since Aug 14
    $3,793 · Aug 14$4,257 now
    $4,257€3,799 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 208 general synthesizers

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

  1. 11
    Sequential Prophet-5 61-Key 5-Voice Polyphonic SynthesizerProphet 5 · Sequential
    Index 56↑ 6.8%
    56
    ↑ 6.8%$4,253€3,795
    $4,253€3,795Check ↗
  2. 12
    Frap Tools MagnoliaFrap Tools
    Index 34Stable
    34
    Stable$4,705€4,199
    $4,705€4,199Check ↗
  3. 13
    Roland Fantom 7 EX 76-Key Workstation KeyboardFantom-7 EX · Roland
    Index 63Stable
    63
    Stable$4,033€3,599
    $4,033€3,599Check ↗
  4. 14
    Sequential OB-6 49-Key 6-Voice Polyphonic SynthesizerOB-6 · Sequential
    Index 52↑ 13.0%
    52
    ↑ 13.0%$4,253€3,795
    $4,253€3,795Check ↗
  5. 15
    Roland Fantom 6 EX 61-Key Workstation KeyboardFantom-6 EX · Roland
    Index 65Stable
    65
    Stable$3,771€3,365
    $3,771€3,365Check ↗
  6. 16
    Sequential Prophet-6 49-Key 6-Voice Polyphonic SynthesizerProphet 6 Case Set · Sequential
    Index 36↑ 11.1%
    36
    ↑ 11.1%$4,369€3,899
    $4,369€3,899Check ↗
  7. 17
    Sequential Prophet 5 Headphone BundleSequential
    Index 22↑ 7.0%
    22
    ↑ 7.0%$4,313€3,849
    $4,313€3,849Check ↗
  8. 18
    Mellotron M4000D MiniM4000D Black · Mellotron · 5 finishes
    Index 54↓ 3.0%
    54
    ↓ 3.0%$3,585€3,199
    $3,585€3,199Check ↗
  9. 19
    UDO Audio Super 8 WhiteUDO Audio
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$3,809€3,399
    $3,809€3,399Check ↗
  10. 20
    Arturia PolyBrute 12Arturia
    Index 43↓ 6.7%
    43
    ↓ 6.7%$3,764€3,359
    $3,764€3,359Check ↗
  11. 21
    Sequential Prophet Rev2 61-Key 16-Voice Polyphonic SynthesizerProphet REV2-16 · Sequential
    Index 51↑ 7.1%
    51
    ↑ 7.1%$3,462€3,089
    $3,462€3,089Check ↗
  12. 22
    Sequential Pro 3 37-Key 3-Voice Monophonic / Paraphonic SynthesizerPro 3 Special Edition · Sequential · 2 finishes
    Index 62↑ 7.4%
    62
    ↑ 7.4%$3,170€2,829
    $3,170€2,829Check ↗
  13. 23
    Sequential Prophet Rev2 61-Key 8-Voice Polyphonic SynthesizerProphet REV2-8 HeadphoneBundle · Sequential · 2 finishes
    Index 57↑ 13.9%
    57
    ↑ 13.9%$3,025€2,699
    $3,025€2,699Check ↗
  14. 24
    UDO Audio DMNO BlackUDO Audio · 2 finishes
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$3,327€2,969
    $3,327€2,969Check ↗
  15. 25
    Moog MuseMoog
    Index 45↓ 12.2%
    45
    ↓ 12.2%$3,246€2,897
    $3,246€2,897Check ↗
  16. 26
    Waldorf Iridium Desktop SynthesizerIridium Keyboard · Waldorf
    Index 56↓ 1.5%
    56
    ↓ 1.5%$2,868€2,559
    $2,868€2,559Check ↗
  17. 27
    Roland Jupiter-Xm 37-Key SynthesizerJupiter-X · Roland
    Index 66↓ 6.0%
    66
    ↓ 6.0%$2,632€2,349
    $2,632€2,349Check ↗
  18. 28
    UDO Audio Super 6 12-Voice Polyphonic Binaural Analog-Hybrid…Super 6 Blue · UDO Audio
    Index 51Stable
    51
    Stable$2,902€2,590
    $2,902€2,590Check ↗
  19. 29
    ASM Leviasynth KeyboardASM
    Index 39↓ 5.9%
    39
    ↓ 5.9%$3,057€2,728
    $3,057€2,728Check ↗
  20. 30
    Novation Summit 61-Key 16-Voice SynthesizerSummit · Novation
    Index 54↑ 16.2%
    54
    ↑ 16.2%$2,688€2,399
    $2,688€2,399Check ↗
  21. 31
    Clavia Nord Wave 2Clavia Nord
    Index 38↓ 3.5%
    38
    ↓ 3.5%$2,688€2,399
    $2,688€2,399Check ↗
  22. 32
    Arturia AstroLab 61-Key Stage KeyboardAstroLab · Arturia
    Index 74↓ 11.2%
    74
    ↓ 11.2%$1,442€1,287
    $1,442€1,287Check ↗
  23. 33
    Roland Juno-106 61-Key Programmable Polyphonic SynthesizerJuno-X · Roland
    Index 74↓ 1.2%
    74
    ↓ 1.2%$1,825€1,629
    $1,825€1,629Check ↗
  24. 34
    Arturia PolyBrute 61-Key SynthesizerPolyBrute · Arturia
    Index 69↓ 8.0%
    69
    ↓ 8.0%$2,627€2,344
    $2,627€2,344Check ↗
  25. 35
    Yamaha CK88 Digital Stage PianoCK88 · Yamaha · 2 finishes
    Index 68↓ 1.5%
    68
    ↓ 1.5%$1,433€1,279
    $1,433€1,279Check ↗
  26. 36
    Moog Grandmother 32-Key Semi-Modular Analog SynthesizerGrandmother · Moog
    Index 67↓ 5.4%
    67
    ↓ 5.4%$1,187€1,059
    $1,187€1,059Check ↗
  27. 37
    Korg Wavestate 37-Key Wave Sequencing SynthesizerWavestate SE · Korg
    Index 67↓ 13.6%
    67
    ↓ 13.6%$1,321€1,179
    $1,321€1,179Check ↗
  28. 38
    Moog Subsequent 37 Analog SynthSubsequent 37 · Moog
    Index 66↓ 8.2%
    66
    ↓ 8.2%$1,881€1,679
    $1,881€1,679Check ↗
  29. 39
    Yamaha MX88 88-Key Synthesizer w/ GHS Key Weighting SystemMX88 · Yamaha
    Index 65↓ 8.3%
    65
    ↓ 8.3%$1,119€999
    $1,119€999Check ↗
  30. 40
    Yamaha CK61 Digital Stage PianoCK61 · Yamaha · 2 finishes
    Index 70Stable
    70
    Stable$966€862
    $966€862Check ↗
  31. 41
    Roland FANTOM-08 88-Key Workstation KeyboardFantom-08 · Roland
    Index 64↓ 0.6%
    64
    ↓ 0.6%$1,949€1,739
    $1,949€1,739Check ↗
  32. 42
    Korg Multi/Poly 37-Key Analog Modeling Synthesizermulti/poly · Korg
    Index 72↓ 12.7%
    72
    ↓ 12.7%$905€808
    $905€808Check ↗
  33. 43
    Roland FANTOM-06 61-Key Workstation KeyboardFantom-06 · Roland
    Index 63↑ 4.8%
    63
    ↑ 4.8%$1,443€1,288
    $1,443€1,288Check ↗
  34. 44
    Roland Jupiter-Xm 37-Key SynthesizerJupiter-Xm · Roland
    Index 63Stable
    63
    Stable$1,736€1,549
    $1,736€1,549Check ↗
  35. 45
    Roland FANTOM-07 76-Key Workstation KeyboardFantom-07 · Roland
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$1,781€1,589
    $1,781€1,589Check ↗
  36. 46
    Expressive E Osmose 49-Key 24-Voice Polyphonic SynthesizerOsmose · Expressive E
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$1,792€1,599
    $1,792€1,599Check ↗
  37. 47
    Oberheim TEO-5 44-Key 5-Voice SynthesizerTEO-5 · Oberheim
    Index 61↑ 5.3%
    61
    ↑ 5.3%$1,769€1,579
    $1,769€1,579Check ↗
  38. 48
    Kurzweil K2088 88-Key Synthesizer WorkstationK2088 · Kurzweil
    Index 57↓ 8.0%
    57
    ↓ 8.0%$2,576€2,299
    $2,576€2,299Check ↗
  39. 49
    Pittsburgh Modular Taiga Keyboard 37-Key Paraphonic SynthesizerTaiga Keyboard · Pittsburgh Modular
    Index 56↓ 10.0%
    56
    ↓ 10.0%$1,310€1,169
    $1,310€1,169Check ↗
  40. 50
    ASM Hydrasynth Desktop Polyphonic SynthesizerHydrasynth Keyboard · ASM
    Index 56↓ 2.3%
    56
    ↓ 2.3%$1,422€1,269
    $1,422€1,269Check ↗

General Synthesizers by the numbers

Measured across all 241 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $839 — half of all general synthesizers here cost less.

7
18
15
39
62
53
42
6
<$50$50–150$150–300$300–500$500–1k$1k–2k$2k–5k$5k+
Weight5.8 kg

median of 182 models · 1.12 kg–15 kg

Key actionsemi-weighted, weighted

most common · 38 models

Keys61

median of 21 models · 25–88

How to choose the best general synthesizers

Architecture (Analog vs. Digital vs. Hybrid)

Analog offers that immediate, responsive feel and often a sweeter, more organic tone, but can be less flexible. Digital provides incredible programmability and effects, but can sometimes feel sterile. Hybrid attempts the best of both worlds, often with complex modulation options.

Modulation Capabilities

Pro synths need deep modulation - LFOs, envelopes, step sequencers - to create evolving, dynamic sounds. Shallow modulation gets boring fast. Look for multiple destinations per modulation source and flexible routing options.

Keybed & Action

A sluggish or unresponsive keybed kills your articulation. Semi-weighted is usually a no-go for serious players; full-weighted (like Fatar) or synth-action with good escapement is a must for expressive playing and tight control.

Sound Engine Flexibility

Can it do subtle pads? Screaming leads? Gritty basses? A 'general' synth should cover a wide sonic spectrum. Limited oscillators or filter types will box you in quickly. The more sonic options, the better.

Build Quality & Reliability

Gigs happen. Synths get bumped. Cheap plastic pots and flaky connections are a recipe for disaster. Solid construction, robust knobs, and a reliable power supply are essential for stage-ready performance.

Buying guide

So, you're a pro looking for a general synth? Forget the toy stuff. We're talking about instruments that can handle a full band, studio tracking, and complex sound design - not just cheesy presets. It's a big decision; a good general synth is a cornerstone, but a bad one can cripple your creativity and leave you frustrated onstage.

Don't fall for the preset trap. A synth's true value lies in its ability to create new sounds. Budget for a decent MIDI controller if the built-in keybed isn't cutting it-a Fatar keybed alone is worth the upgrade.

Be wary of synths that promise everything and deliver little; those corners usually involve compromised sound quality or flimsy build.

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 242 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

Is a software synth a viable alternative to hardware?

Software can sound incredible, absolutely, and offers insane flexibility. But hardware has that tactile immediacy and often a unique sonic character you can't replicate perfectly. It's about workflow and your creative process.

What's the deal with polyphony? How much do I really need?

For a professional, 8 voices is generally the bare minimum. 12-16 voices gives you breathing room for layered sounds and complex arrangements without triggering dreaded voice stealing.

I'm on a tight budget. Where can I compromise?

You can sometimes get away with a less-than-perfect keybed, but don't skimp on the sound engine or modulation capabilities. A great sound engine can compensate for a mediocre action; a mediocre engine can't be saved by a fancy keybed.

What's the learning curve like on these complex synths?

Steep. Be prepared to spend hours tweaking parameters and reading manuals. Start with the basics - oscillators, filters, envelopes - and build from there. Online tutorials and communities are invaluable.

Do I need aftertouch?

It's a luxury, not a necessity. Aftertouch adds another layer of expression, but it's not a dealbreaker. A good keybed action and solid modulation matrix will get you 90% of the way there.

Related charts

Best Sound Modules157 modelsBest Pianos144 modelsBest Home Keyboards130 modelsBest Stage Pianos130 modelsBest Compact Digital Pianos106 modelsBest Filter Modules102 models
#1 · AudioFu Index 54Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave 24-Voice 61-Key Wavetable Synthesizer · $6,375€5,689
Check price ↗
 Check price ↗