The 10 Best Analog Synthesizers
Special Honors
Moog Matriarch Musicians who are a little intimidated by the patching process can use this model to create tons of interesting sounds without ever plugging in a single patch cable. But when they're ready, it offers 90 modular patches to take their expression to a whole new level. It boasts phenomenal stereo delay, and a 256-step sequencer. moogmusic.com
Deckard's Dream Rev2.0 This offering takes its name from the Philip K. Dick Novel, Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?, which was the basis for the Blade Runner film franchise. And the easiest soundscapes to create with it will instantly put you in mind of those films. It lays out its controls as faders rather than knobs, which may take some getting used to, but it's a one-of-a-kind synth design. deckardsdream.com
Moog One So long as money is no object, you can get your hands on what is likely the most versatile, inspiring synth that has ever been created. Its 16 voices are powered by a trio of voltage-controlled oscillators, the manipulations of which are nearly endless. It has a 61-key keyboard and a large, comprehensive LCD readout that offers even more parameters for adjustment. moogmusic.com
Editor's Notes
August 15, 2019:
As one might expect going into a list like this, Moog, the company mostly responsible for the synthetic revolution, dominates the ranking, with three offerings in our top ten and another two included as special honors. Analog circuitry was a baseline standard for the list, though there are two models — Korg's Prologue and Dave Smith's Prophet Rev2 — that offer some, if not complete digital sourcing for their oscillators, after which all of the effects circuitry is analog. The absolute best deal on the list comes in at number two, where Moog offers their Mother 32, which you can use on its own or pair with any MIDI keyboard to create an insane array of sounds. It's particularly good for new users looking to invest in something they can grow into, and later expand, as you can take several Mothers and string them together in a rack that will make you feel like you're on stage with Keith Emerson.