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 Under $2,000 2026

The top pick is Arturia MicroFreak 25-Key Algorithmic Synthesizer ($316). Roland Juno-106 61-Key Programmable Polyphonic Synthesizer leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 166 models across 31 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 11, 2026

166models in this chart
31brands
$626median price
80price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All General Synthesizers Showing: Under $2,000 · clear

Top 10

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

  1. Arturia MicroFreak 25-Key Algorithmic Synthesizer

    MicroFreak · Arturia

    74 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight1.02 kg
    • Keys25 keys

    The MicroFreak is a quirky, fun synth perfect for experimental sound design and those craving a unique, tactile playing experience. Its compact size makes it great for travel, and the sequencing capabilities are surprisingly powerful for a small instrument – a real creative playground for producers and experimental musicians.

    Pros

    • Unique synthesis engine offers startlingly diverse sonic textures
    • Touch keyboard surprisingly expressive with polyphonic aftertouch
    • Compact size and lightweight design enable excellent portability

    Cons

    • Limited key range restricts playing complex chords or basslines
    • Paraphonic nature limits true polyphony for layered sounds
    75AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand99
    • Lineup39
    • Price67
    • Specs67
    • Maker76
    ↓ 5.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $335 · Aug 14$316 now
    $316€282 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  2. Korg Monologue Monophonic Analog Synthesizer

    Monologue Silver · Korg

    55 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann

    The Monologue Silver is a fantastic little analog powerhouse. It's incredibly fun for basslines, leads, and sound design, especially if you're into gritty, raw sounds. Perfect for producers, electronic musicians, or anyone wanting a focused, hands-on analog experience without a huge investment.

    Pros

    • Solid metal chassis provides a reassuring, robust feel.
    • The sequencer is surprisingly deep for a monophonic synth.
    • Excellent value for an all-analog, subtractive synthesizer.

    Cons

    • Limited polyphony restricts layering and complex arrangements.
    • The 25-key keyboard feels cramped for extended playing sessions.
    74AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand92
    • Lineup77
    • Price80
    • Specs0
    • Maker100
    ↓ 10.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $335 · Aug 14$301 now
    $301€269 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  3. Arturia AstroLab 61-Key Stage Keyboard

    AstroLab · Arturia

    52 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight9.9 kg
    • Key actionSemi-weighted keys

    The AstroLab is a powerhouse for musicians needing a versatile, all-in-one stage keyboard. It’s a fantastic solution for performers who want a huge palette of sounds and real-time control, but be prepared for a learning curve mastering all the synthesis engines. It’s ideal for producers and live players looking to consolidate their gear.

    Pros

    • Ten diverse synthesis engines offer incredible sonic breadth.
    • The navigation wheel and screen streamline complex sound editing.
    • Extensive effects suite allows for deep sound shaping and customization.

    Cons

    • Semi-weighted keys lack the nuance of fully weighted action for expressive playing.
    • The sheer number of engines can feel overwhelming for beginners.
    74AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand91
    • Lineup39
    • Price84
    • Specs67
    • Maker76
    ↓ 11.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $1,624 · Aug 14$1,442 now
    $1,442€1,287 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  4. Roland Juno-106 61-Key Programmable Polyphonic Synthesizer

    Juno-X · Roland

    77 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight11.6 kg
    • Key actionWeighted keys

    The Juno-X is a clever blend of retro vibes and modern tech. It’s a fantastic option for synth enthusiasts wanting that classic Juno sound without the vintage headaches, and its compact design makes it travel-friendly. Ideal for songwriters, producers, and gigging musicians needing a versatile and expressive voice.

    Pros

    • ZEN-Core engine delivers impressive sonic depth and modern versatility.
    • Super Saw oscillator recreates classic Juno warmth with a modern edge.
    • Aftertouch adds expressive nuance, enhancing performance capabilities significantly.

    Cons

    • 61-key action, while velocity-sensitive, lacks the feel of a fully weighted keyboard.
    • 128x64 display is functional but visually limited for complex editing.
    74AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand100
    • Lineup39
    • Price53
    • Specs67
    • Maker86
    ↓ 1.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $1,847 · Aug 14$1,825 now
    $1,825€1,629 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  5. Korg MicroKORG 2 37-Key Synthesizer / Vocoder

    microKORG 2 · Korg

    45 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight2.1 kg

    The microKORG 2 is a fantastic, compact synthesizer that's surprisingly deep. It's perfect for bedroom producers, electronic musicians, or anyone wanting a portable, fun sound design tool – just be prepared for those mini keys! It's a great entry point into synth sounds and offers a lot of creative potential for its size.

    Pros

    • Excellent value for a modern, versatile synthesizer.
    • Improved keybed offers a more playable, responsive experience.
    • The dual engine allows for surprisingly complex sound design.

    Cons

    • Mini keys are cramped; not ideal for fast, complex playing.
    • Limited polyphony can be restrictive in dense arrangements.
    73AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand88
    • Lineup39
    • Price100
    • Specs33
    • Maker100
    ↓ 21.1%since Aug 14
    $638 · Aug 14$503 now
    $503€449 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  6. Yamaha Reface DX

    Reface CP · Yamaha

    35 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann

    • Weight1.9 kg

    The Reface CP is a clever little package, nailing the vibe of classic electric pianos with Yamaha’s SCM modeling. It's ideal for gigging musicians needing a lightweight, portable piano voice, or for home practice where space is at a premium. It's a fun, accessible entry point into the world of vintage electric piano sounds.

    Pros

    • SCM engine delivers surprisingly authentic vintage piano tones
    • Compact size and lightweight design enable excellent portability
    • Built-in speakers are surprisingly decent for practice sessions

    Cons

    • Mini-keys lack the feel of a full-sized piano action
    • Limited preset selection restricts creative exploration
    72AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand82
    • Lineup90
    • Price53
    • Specs33
    • Maker81
    ↓ 1.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $428 · Aug 14$424 now
    $424€378 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  7. Korg Multi / Poly 37-Key Analog Modeling Synthesizer

    multi/poly · Korg

    28 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Weight3.5 kg
    • Key actionSemi-weighted keys

    The Korg multi/poly is a seriously powerful sound design tool. It’s got a ton of sonic potential thanks to its flexible architecture and modulation options, making it ideal for experimental musicians, soundtrack composers, or anyone wanting to build complex, evolving patches. Just be prepared for a steeper learning curve than some simpler synths.

    Pros

    • Exceptional flexibility with oscillator routing and modulation options.
    • Dual filter design delivers a wide range of tonal possibilities, from aggressive to smooth.
    • Motion Sequencing 2.0 allows for dynamic and evolving soundscapes.

    Cons

    • 37 semi-weighted keys lack the feel of a full-sized, weighted action.
    • The sheer number of parameters can be overwhelming for beginners.
    72AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand77
    • Lineup39
    • Price88
    • Specs67
    • Maker100
    ↓ 12.6%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $1,037 · Aug 14$905 now
    $905€808 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  8. Korg MicroKORG 2 37-Key Synthesizer / Vocoder

    microKORG S · Korg

    45 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann

    • Weight2.5 kg

    The microKORG S is a seriously fun, affordable entry point into synthesis. It's a great grab-and-go option for electronic music producers, or anyone wanting to experiment with vocoding and quirky sounds. Don't expect studio-grade depth, but it's a fantastic creative tool for the price.

    Pros

    • Excellent value for a compact, feature-rich synthesizer
    • Vocoder functionality is surprisingly usable and creative
    • The slim keys are surprisingly playable, especially for beginners

    Cons

    • Limited polyphony restricts complex, layered sounds
    • The 37-key layout can feel cramped for complex playing
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand88
    • Lineup61
    • Price56
    • Specs33
    • Maker100
    ↓ 2.1%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $524 · Aug 14$513 now
    $513€458 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  9. Yamaha CK61 Digital Stage Piano

    CK61 · Yamaha

    19 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann

    • Weight5.6 kg
    • Keys61 keys
    • Key actionSemi-weighted keys

    The CK61 is a solid option for gigging musicians, particularly those who prioritize realistic organ sounds and portability. Its drawbar controls and Bluetooth connectivity are real strengths, but be aware of the semi-weighted action and polyphony limitations if you're planning on complex layered sounds – it's a great stage tool for solo performers and smaller ensembles.

    Pros

    • Excellent organ sounds leveraging AWM2 technology for realism.
    • Organ drawbar sliders provide tactile control often missing in digital keyboards.
    • Compact and lightweight for gigging musicians; easily portable.

    Cons

    • Semi-weighted FSB action lacks the responsiveness of fully weighted keys.
    • Limited polyphony (128 voices) can be a constraint with complex layering.
    70AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand69
    • Lineup61
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker81
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$966 now
    $966€862 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  10. Korg Minilogue XD Polyphonic Analogue Synthesizer

    Minilogue · Korg

    41 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann

    • Weight2.8 kg

    The Minilogue is a surprisingly capable and fun analog synth, perfect for bedroom producers, sound designers, and anyone wanting a portable, hands-on experience. Its accessible price and intuitive sequencer make it easy to dive in, while the voice mode unlocks some truly unique sonic textures. It's a great entry point into analog synthesis.

    Pros

    • Robust aluminum control panel feels premium and durable.
    • Rubberized knobs offer excellent tactile feedback and grip.
    • Voice mode provides unique sonic sculpting possibilities.

    Cons

    • 37 slim keys can feel cramped for players with larger hands.
    • Limited modulation options compared to higher-end synths.
    69AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand86
    • Lineup61
    • Price50
    • Specs33
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$532 now
    $532€475 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 166 general synthesizers

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

  1. 11
    Korg Modwave mkii 37-Key Wavetable SynthesizerModwave MKII · Korg
    Index 68↓ 16.2%
    68
    ↓ 16.2%$640€571
    $640€571Check ↗
  2. 12
    Korg KROSS 2 61 61-Key Synthesizer WorkstationKross 2-61 · Korg
    Index 68Stable
    68
    Stable$746€666
    $746€666Check ↗
  3. 13
    Yamaha CK88 Digital Stage PianoCK88 · Yamaha · 2 finishes
    Index 68↓ 1.5%
    68
    ↓ 1.5%$1,433€1,279
    $1,433€1,279Check ↗
  4. 14
    Moog Grandmother 32-Key Semi-Modular Analog SynthesizerGrandmother · Moog
    Index 67↓ 5.4%
    67
    ↓ 5.4%$1,187€1,059
    $1,187€1,059Check ↗
  5. 15
    Korg Wavestate 37-Key Wave Sequencing SynthesizerWavestate SE · Korg
    Index 67↓ 13.6%
    67
    ↓ 13.6%$1,321€1,179
    $1,321€1,179Check ↗
  6. 16
    Moog Subsequent 37 Analog SynthSubsequent 37 · Moog
    Index 66↓ 8.2%
    66
    ↓ 8.2%$1,881€1,679
    $1,881€1,679Check ↗
  7. 17
    Yamaha MX88 88-Key Synthesizer w/ GHS Key Weighting SystemMX88 · Yamaha
    Index 65↓ 8.3%
    65
    ↓ 8.3%$1,119€999
    $1,119€999Check ↗
  8. 18
    Arturia MiniFreak 37-Key 6-Voice Polyphonic Hybrid SynthesizerMiniFreak · Arturia
    Index 64↓ 0.7%
    64
    ↓ 0.7%$611€545
    $611€545Check ↗
  9. 19
    Roland FANTOM-08 88-Key Workstation KeyboardFantom-08 · Roland
    Index 64↓ 0.6%
    64
    ↓ 0.6%$1,949€1,739
    $1,949€1,739Check ↗
  10. 20
    Korg Volca Beats Analogue Rhythm MachineVolca Bass · Korg
    Index 63↓ 7.0%
    63
    ↓ 7.0%$148€132
    $148€132Check ↗
  11. 21
    Roland FANTOM-06 61-Key Workstation KeyboardFantom-06 · Roland
    Index 63↑ 4.8%
    63
    ↑ 4.8%$1,443€1,288
    $1,443€1,288Check ↗
  12. 22
    Roland Jupiter-Xm 37-Key SynthesizerJupiter-Xm · Roland
    Index 63Stable
    63
    Stable$1,736€1,549
    $1,736€1,549Check ↗
  13. 23
    Korg MS-20 Mini Semi-Modular Analog SynthesizerMS-20 mini · Korg
    Index 62↓ 1.1%
    62
    ↓ 1.1%$615€549
    $615€549Check ↗
  14. 24
    Suzuki OM-108 Omnichord ReissueOmnichord OM-108 · Suzuki · 2 finishes
    Index 62↓ 3.6%
    62
    ↓ 3.6%$895€799
    $895€799Check ↗
  15. 25
    Roland FANTOM-07 76-Key Workstation KeyboardFantom-07 · Roland
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$1,781€1,589
    $1,781€1,589Check ↗
  16. 26
    Expressive E Osmose 49-Key 24-Voice Polyphonic SynthesizerOsmose · Expressive E
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$1,792€1,599
    $1,792€1,599Check ↗
  17. 27
    Moog ThereminiMoog
    Index 61↓ 7.3%
    61
    ↓ 7.3%$429€383
    $429€383Check ↗
  18. 28
    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 ↗
  19. 29
    Moog Mavis Monophonic Analog Synthesizer VoiceMavis · Moog
    Index 60Stable
    60
    Stable$303€270
    $303€270Check ↗
  20. 30
    Novation MiniNova 37-Key 18-Voice SynthesizerMiniNova · Novation
    Index 60↑ 5.3%
    60
    ↑ 5.3%$447€399
    $447€399Check ↗
  21. 31
    Korg Volca Kick Analog Bass / Kick GeneratorVolca Kick · Korg
    Index 59↓ 4.0%
    59
    ↓ 4.0%$160€143
    $160€143Check ↗
  22. 32
    Korg Wavestate MkII 37-Key Wave Sequencing SynthesizerWavestate MkII · Korg
    Index 59↓ 5.3%
    59
    ↓ 5.3%$635€567
    $635€567Check ↗
  23. 33
    Modal Electronics Carbon8X 61-Key Experimental SynthesizerCarbon8 · Modal · 2 finishes
    Index 59↓ 19.2%
    59
    ↓ 19.2%$895€799
    $895€799Check ↗
  24. 34
    Korg Opsix mkii 37-Key Altered FM Synthesizeropsix MKII · Korg
    Index 58↓ 6.7%
    58
    ↓ 6.7%$622€555
    $622€555Check ↗
  25. 35
    Behringer Pro VS Mini 4-Voice Hybrid Vector SynthesizerJT Mini · Behringer
    Index 57↓ 22.0%
    57
    ↓ 22.0%$95€85
    $95€85Check ↗
  26. 36
    Behringer Vocoder VC340Behringer
    Index 56↓ 4.9%
    56
    ↓ 4.9%$436€389
    $436€389Check ↗
  27. 37
    Behringer MonoPoly 37-Key Polyphonic SynthesizerMonoPoly · Behringer
    Index 56↓ 10.6%
    56
    ↓ 10.6%$436€389
    $436€389Check ↗
  28. 38
    ASM Hydrasynth ExplorerASM
    Index 56↓ 4.3%
    56
    ↓ 4.3%$656€585
    $656€585Check ↗
  29. 39
    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 ↗
  30. 40
    ASM Hydrasynth Desktop Polyphonic SynthesizerHydrasynth Keyboard · ASM
    Index 56↓ 2.3%
    56
    ↓ 2.3%$1,422€1,269
    $1,422€1,269Check ↗
  31. 41
    Sequential Take 5 44-Key 5-Voice Compact Polyphonic SynthesizerTake 5 · Sequential
    Index 56↑ 5.3%
    56
    ↑ 5.3%$1,769€1,579
    $1,769€1,579Check ↗
  32. 42
    Novation Bass Station II 25-Key Monophonic SynthesizerBass Station II · Novation
    Index 55↑ 10.0%
    55
    ↑ 10.0%$492€439
    $492€439Check ↗
  33. 43
    Modal Electronics Argon8X 8 Voice 61-Key Wavetable SynthesizerArgon8 · Modal
    Index 55↓ 11.3%
    55
    ↓ 11.3%$695€620
    $695€620Check ↗
  34. 44
    Behringer DeepMind 12 Polyphonic Analog SynthDeepMind 12 · Behringer
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$705€629
    $705€629Check ↗
  35. 45
    Modal Electronics Cobalt8M Desktop Virtual Analog SynthesizerCobalt8X · Modal · 2 finishes
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$891€795
    $891€795Check ↗
  36. 46
    ASM Hydrasynth DeluxeASM
    Index 55↓ 3.8%
    55
    ↓ 3.8%$1,725€1,539
    $1,725€1,539Check ↗
  37. 47
    Behringer OdysseyBehringer
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$520€464
    $520€464Check ↗
  38. 48
    Behringer DeepMind 6 37-Key 6-Voice Polyphonic Analog SynthDeepMind 6 · Behringer
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$558€498
    $558€498Check ↗
  39. 49
    Behringer Wave 8-Voice 49-Key Hybrid SynthesizerWave · Behringer
    Index 53↓ 13.4%
    53
    ↓ 13.4%$582€519
    $582€519Check ↗
  40. 50
    Roland Gaia 2 37-Key 22-Voice SynthesizerGAIA 2 · Roland
    Index 53↑ 16.9%
    53
    ↑ 16.9%$783€699
    $783€699Check ↗

General Synthesizers by the numbers

Measured across all 193 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $626 — half of all general synthesizers here cost less.

7
18
15
38
62
53
<$50$50–150$150–300$300–500$500–1k$1k+
Keys49

median of 17 models · 25–76

Weight4.2 kg

median of 134 models · 0.88 kg–11.7 kg

Key actionsemi-weighted, weighted

most common · 23 models

How to choose the best general synthesizers

Oscillator Quality

Cheap DCOs can sound thin or fizzy. We're looking for a decent analog-style warmth or a convincing digital emulation - something with a bit of grit when you push it, not just sterile waves.

Filter Character

This is HUGE. A weak filter will leave your sounds flat and lifeless. A resonant filter with a noticeable sweep, capable of everything from subtle warmth to screaming leads, is essential.

Modulation Options

LFOs, envelopes, and modulation matrixes are what give a synth its movement and expression. More modulation points usually mean more sonic possibilities, but it needs to be usable - not just a bunch of knobs that don't do anything interesting.

Keyboard Action & Build Quality

A flimsy keyboard with poor action makes playing a chore. Solid construction and a responsive keybed are crucial for expressive playing, especially for gigging.

Polyphony & Architecture

A 4-voice paraphonic synth can be a lot more inspiring than a basic 2-voice duophonic one. Consider if you need full polyphony for lush pads or a more focused, monophonic character for leads and basses.

Buying guide

Alright, so you want a synth that's gonna get you out of cheesy presets and into something with some real character, but your bank account isn't screaming? Totally get it. Finding a versatile general-purpose synth under $2000 is doable, but you gotta know what to look for - it's not all about knobs and oscillators. Let's break down some solid options and what you're realistically getting for your money.

At this budget, you're making trade-offs. Don't expect boutique build quality or the absolute smoothest DCOs. You'll likely find some compromises in things like keyboard feel or the depth of modulation.

Prioritize a synth with a strong filter and a decent oscillator - those are the foundations of good sound. And seriously, watch out for units with tiny, fiddly knobs; they're a nightmare in a dark club.

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 193 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 DCO and VCO?

VCOs (Voltage Controlled Oscillators) are typically analog and can drift slightly, adding character. DCOs (Digitally Controlled Oscillators) are digital emulations of VCOs - often more stable, but potentially less 'warm'. It's a vibe thing, really.

Can I use these synths for bass sounds?

Absolutely. Look for a synth with a decent sub-oscillator or a powerful low-pass filter to get that low-end thump. Just be mindful of headroom - some smaller units can get muddy quickly at low frequencies.

Are these synths easy to program?

It depends on the synth. Some have intuitive interfaces, while others can be overwhelming. Watch videos and read reviews to get a sense of the learning curve.

Can I record these synths directly into my DAW?

Yep! Most have MIDI connectivity and audio outputs. Some even have USB audio interfaces built-in for direct recording, which is super convenient.

What about used synths? Are they a good option?

Definitely. You can often find great deals on used synths, but be sure to check for wear and tear and test everything thoroughly before you buy.

Related charts

#1 · AudioFu Index 75Arturia MicroFreak 25-Key Algorithmic Synthesizer · $316€282
Check price ↗
 Check price ↗