The warm, chaotic character of analog synths has become one of the most desirable qualities in modern electronic music because of the advancement in technology and everyone now having access to digital and computer-based synthesizers. Aside from the fantastic audio quality, there are also many other reasons why you might want to grab an analog synthesizer for yourself. We believe that there is nothing quite as satisfying as adjusting a parameter by hand and altering the sound at the touch of your fingers, so to speak. In this post, we are going to go over the best analog synths under $1000, along with a detailed buyers guide to help you learn some technical jargon.

Criteria For Buying  A Synthesizer/ Buyer’s Guide:

Monophonic vs. Polyphonic:

This is by far the most accessible feature to grasp: Does the synthesizer produce more than one note at once? A monophonic synth produces only one note. Polyphonic means multiple notes at once. Although it seems like more notes are always better, monophonic instruments can often produce a distinctive sound, particularly in bass lines.

Keyboard:

A full keyboard is essential for people who wish to play synthesizers like pianos. You will likely have to sacrifice in some areas if you want to spend less than $1000 on this type of instrument. The size of the keys is another factor to consider. Many models under $1000 feature slimmer, mini keys that can take a little while to become accustomed to. This type of keybed is compact and portable, which helps to reduce costs.

Effects:

It’s nice to have built-in effects. Generally, they do not perform as well as dedicated units, but they can significantly alter the sound of a synthesizer. Despite the fact that many modern synthesizers feature some beneficial effects, pro musicians use plugins, guitar pedals, or rack-mounted effects units to create more polished sounds. You can use built-in effects for practice and ideas, but if effects are crucial to your sound, you’ll likely need other equipment.

Filters:

Filters let some things through and block others just as you’d expect them to. In this case, we are discussing sound waves and how to shape them with filters. The shape of a filter will produce different sound shapes, resulting in unique tones. It is hard to describe this one in words, and hopefully, you have some experience listening to different types of filters.

Size And Weight:

Are you looking for a portable synthesizer that you can take anywhere you go? Or do you want something exclusively for the studio you will use at home? Despite the fact that most of the products mentioned in this list of best synthesizers under $1000 are lightweight, if that is what you prefer, you have the option of getting heavier synths.

Now that you know what to look for, let’s move on to the list of best analog synths under $1000.

Also Read: Best Synthesizers Under $1000

Top Picks:

Moog Subsequent 25 Analog Synthesizer:

A high-quality analog synthesizer that will satisfy your craving.

IK Multimedia UNO Synth portable monophonic analog synthesizer:

A feature-filled synth that any musician will love to have.

Roland SE-02 Boutique Designer Series Analog Synthesizer:

A budget-friendly option for our musician friends.

Also Check: Best Violin Brands

Best Synthesizers Under $1000:

Moog Subsequent 25 Analog Synthesizer:

We are going to start our list of the best analog synths under $1000 with the Subsequent 25, an instrument that allows users to express their creative selves to the maximum extent. This synthesizer’s streamlined interface and dynamic sound flexibility make it a valuable addition to the emerging field of creative collaboration between humans and machines, enabling humans to express themselves through music in unprecedented ways.

In this classic 2-note analog synthesizer, the simplicity and ease of use of an analog synthesizer from the earlier days are combined with the ease and convenience of a modern sound design tool, delivering the ultimate blend of traditional analog and modern approaches to sound design. Users are going to find that the Subsequent 25, Moog’s most compact keyboard synthesizer, is nothing short of all of the rich sonic density that they have become accustomed to from the Moog name.

Specs:

• Brand: Moog Music Inc.
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 26 x 5 x 17 inches
• Weight: 12 Pounds
• Analog/Digital: Analog
• Number of Keys: 25
• Type of Keys: Semi-weighted
• Other Controllers: Pitchbend Wheel, Mod Wheel
• Polyphony: Monophonic, 2 Note Paraphonic
• Presets: 16 Presets (4 Banks of 4)

Key Features:

• Mono/Duo Mode
• Duo Osc 2 Priority
• Filter & Volume Velocity Sensitivity

Pros:

• Affordable
• Compact
• A lot of features

Cons:

• No built-in hold/drone control

IK Multimedia UNO Synth portable monophonic analog synthesizer:

This is a strong entry from IK Multimedia in terms of hardware synthesis. The Uno can produce a wide variety of sounds with its two oscillators, and 100 presets, making its users wonder just how something so small and very compact can produce such diverse sounds. Even if the analog synth sounds excellent, it can still be enhanced by the use of step sequencers and arpeggiators to make it even more professional-sounding. It usually isn’t easy to import a sequence into a synth (or remarkably easy, after studying the instruction manual for a while). But this one makes the easy process right from the beginning.

Overall, the Uno synth by IK Multimedia is exceptionally affordable and an impressive entry into the world of synth-hardware for the company. The ease of use, the sound quality, and all the features built into the program will appeal to new musicians. It has all these characteristics, making it eligible to be on the list of best analog synths under $1000.

Specs:

• Brand: IK Multimedia
• Color: Black
• Material: Plastic
• Model Name: UNO Synth
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 10.7 x 1.97 x 5.7 inches
• Weight: 1 pound
• Type: Analog
• Polyphony: 1 voice
• Presets: 100 Presets (20 factory non-writable, 80 user)
• 16-step sequencer
• Number of Keyboard Keys: 49
• Power Source: Battery Powered (Alkaline)

Key Features:

• 10 Mode Arpeggiator
• 13 Selectable scales (Chromatic, Major, Minor, Major Pentatonic, Minor Pentatonic, Major Blues, Minor Blues, Harmonic Minor, Mixolydian, Dorian, Klezmer, Hungarian Gypsy, Spanish Gypsy, Japanese, South-East Asian)
• Real-time and step recording with parameter recording

Pros:

• Portable
• Lightweight
• Battery-powered
• A lot of digital features like LCD etc.
• Made for traveling

Cons:

• There is no dedicated power-only connector, which can be problematic if the battery runs out and there is no spare.

Roland SE-02 Boutique Designer Series Analog Synthesizer:

The Roland SE-02 is the first product from the new Roland Boutique Designer Series and a collaborative effort between Roland and Studio Electronics. This synthesizer features authentic discrete analog circuitry that provides the SE-02 with a vintage sound and a wide range of programming options. It comes with an array of knobs and switches that are of high-quality, as well as a uniquely creative sequencer onboard, meaning the SE-02 delivers massive tone and texture while allowing expressive control.

Specs:

• Brand: Roland
• Model Name: SE-02
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 14 x 7 x 5 inches
• Weight: 2 pounds
• Type: Desktop Synthesizer and Sequencer
• Analog/Digital: Analog
• Pads: 16 x multi-function buttons
• Polyphony: Monophonic
• Presets: 384 presets, 128 user locations
• Oscillators: 3 x VCO (6 waveforms)
• Sequencer: 16-step, 128 patterns, 16 songs
• Power Supply: 9V DC 2A power supply (included)

Key Features:

• Monophonic synth
• Temperature-stabilized oscillators
• Three types of cross modulation (XMOD), feedback loop, and noise generator

Pros:

• Smooth features
• Affordable
• Easy complete integration with many DAWs.

Cons:

• The knobs seem a little flimsy.

Behringer DEEPMIND 12 True Analog 12-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer:

Next up on this list of best analog synths under $1000, we have the famous Behringer DEEPMIND.

Its highly flexible and powerful features make it a handy tool for sound design, yet it is straightforward. With its display screen, it is incredibly informative. The features include the ability to program new sounds, as well as the ability to edit and save patches remotely using built-in WiFi. It is also worth noting that a free editor and librarian app is handy for computers and iPads. It comes with more than 30 top-quality effects, which you can use at the same time when using four effects at once. From the classic analog bread and butter synth sounds of the past to the cutting edge sounds of the present, it moves from one to the other effortlessly.

Specs:

• Brand: Behringer
• Color: Black
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 32.36 x 10.12 x 4.06 inches
• Weight: 18.52 Pounds
• Number of Keys: 49
• Type: Keyboard Synthesizer with Sequencer
• Sound Engine: 12-voice Analog Polysynth with Digital Effects
• Analog/Digital: Analog
• Type of Keys: Semi-weighted
• Polyphony: 12 voices
• Number of Presets: 1024 program memories – 8 banks (each with 128 programs)
• Sequencer: 32-steps
• Arpeggiator: Yes
• Power Source: Standard IEC power cable

Key Features:

• Number of Effects: 4 FX engines (TC Electronic, Klark Teknik FX)
• Effects Types: Reverb, Delay, Chorus, Flanger, Rotary, Amp simulator, Phaser, EQ, Filter, Distortion, Compression, Gates
• Waveforms: Sawtooth, Pulse, Square

Pros:

• Best of analog and polyphonic features
• Lightweight
• A lot of features and variety in less price

Cons:

• Slow refresh time in presets

Behringer POLY D Analog 4-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer:

In our selection of the best analog synths under $1000, we have Behringer’s POLY D synthesizer, one of the best analog synthesizers under $1000.

Behringer describes the Model D as “a legendary analog synthesizer, a legacy of its generation.” It’s not as good as the real thing, but it’s a close reproduction of what was a legendary analog synthesizer. The Model D is an incredible synthesizer that emulates the Minimoog Model D with remarkable accuracy, as well as both in appearance and sound. There might be some issues with it, but overall it’s a powerful machine worthy of being one of the top synthesizers in this price range.

Specs:

• Brand: Behringer
• Color: Black
• Type: Analog
• Dimensions: (L x W x H): 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches
• Weight: 1 Pound
• Number of Keyboard Keys: 37
• Type: Keyboard Synthesizer with Sequencer
• Analog/Digital: Analog
• Type of Keys: Full-size, Synth Action
• Polyphony: 4-voice (paraphonic), Monophonic mode, Unison mode
• Sequencer: 32-step
• Power Source: 12V DC power supply

Key Features:

• Oscillators: 4 x VCO
• Waveforms: Triangle, Sawtooth, Square, Wide Pulse, Narrow Pulse, Reverse Saw (OSC 4)
• Classic Ladder Filter

Pros:

• Ultra-high precision
• Produces the “big fat tunes” of the 80s and 90s
• Easy switching between monophonic, polyphonic, or unison modes.
• Loud sounds

Cons:

• Some users have complained about quality control issues.

Korg microKORG XL+ 37-Key Synthesizer/Vocoder:

In a nutshell, Korg’s microKORG XL+ is an improved version of the famous microKORG XL synthesizer. As a result of harnessing the power of the Radias sound engine, the microKORG XL+ now offers 128 original sounds – from fat basses to thick pads – plus 17 KAOSS effects right on board. Sound selection knobs have been updated to facilitate easy browsing by genre and instrument type, making it easier to find the right sound instantly. Onboard the microKORG XL+, you’ll find the ability to stack two sounds, create splits, or add an external audio signal – you can also find massive vocoding, arpeggiation, USB connectivity, and three real-time knobs.

Specs:

• Brand: Korg
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 22.05 x 9.06 x 2.76 inches
• Weight: 4 pounds
• Type: Keyboard Synthesizer with Vocoder
• Sound Engine: Analog Modeling
• Number of Keys: 37
• Type of Keys: Semi-weighted (Mini)
• Polyphony: 8 Notes (4 When Vocoder is Selected)
• Presets: 128 Programs
• Number of Effects: 17
• Arpeggiator: Yes
• Power Source: 9V DC power supply / 6 x AA Batteries

Key Features:

• Filter: 2 x Multi-mode Filters
• Effects Types: Delay, Chorus, Flanger, Phaser, Vocoder with 16-band Filter, 2-band EQ
• 4-Voice Analog Modeling synth engine

Pros:

• High-quality mic included
• Nice windscreen
• Pristine sound quality

Cons:

• No damper pedal pug included

Korg Minilogue 4-Voice Polyphonic Analog Synth:

Our next entry in the list of Best Analog Synths Under $1000 is Kory Minilogue. A minilogue is a piece of hardware that enables you to get your hands on the powerful sound that’s only available with actual analog gear and find inspiration with features including a polyphonic step and motion sequencer, tape-style delay, and multiple sound shaping and filter options, and an oscilloscope display. All of these seamlessly integrated features make minilogue as easy to use and as fun to use as it is powerful. You can use it to make music of all types because it’s the next-generation analog synthesizer.

Specs:

• Brand: Korg
• Model Name: MINILOGUE
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 24.4 x 6 x 16.6 inches
• Weight: 10.35 Pounds
• Type: Keyboard Synthesizer with Sequencer
• Analog/Digital: Analog
• Number of Keys: 37
• Type of Keys: Slim-key
• Polyphony: 4 Notes
• Presets: 100 presets, 100 user
• Envelope Generator: 1 x AMP EG (ADSR), 1 x EG (ADSR)
• Arpeggiator: 4-voice
• Sequencer: 16-step Polyphonic Sequencer, Motion Sequence, Realtime Recording
• Software: Minilogue Librarian Software
• Power Source: 9V DC power supply included

Key Features:

• Oscillators: 2 x Analog VCO (sawtooth, triangle, square)
• LFO: 1 x LFO (sawtooth, triangle, square)
• Filter: 2-pole/4-pole Lowpass Filter with Key track, Velocity

Pros:

• Amazing build quality
• Perfect for beginners
• A perfect example of “Jack of all trades, master of none.”

Cons:

• No mod controller

Novation Bass Station II Analog Synthesizer Bundle:

Last but not least in the list of Best Analog Synths Under $1000 is Novation Bass Station II. The Bass Station II by Novation is a mono-synth synth purely analog in nature. It has been enhanced in every aspect to make it even bigger, stronger, and more versatile. The station has two tuneable oscillators, a sub-oscillator, noise, and ring modulation. You can also choose between two distinct analog filter types: a classic multi-mode filter as well as a new acid filter so that you can create various sounds. You can make the synth sound mellow or aggressive. Using the filter mod, you can find sweet spots which will make it sound even better.
As the Bass Station II has many different controls, you can totally lose yourself in discovering and creating new sounds. In order to keep the sound design process as straightforward and fun as possible, the controls have been arranged in the clearest and most convenient manner. It allows you to easily save and load your own patches, either directly on the unit or in the free Librarian software that comes with the unit.

A fun and exciting way for musicians to find new inspiration can be found with the Bass Station II’s pattern-based arpeggiator and step sequencer. In the sequencer, you can record your own notes, ties, rests, and rhythms and then store, recall, and use them with any patch. You can easily and automatically sync them to your music software or hardware setup, or even add swing to get your groove started.

Specs:

• Brand: Novation
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 25.7 x 19.2 x 8.2 inches
• Weight: 1 Pound
• Type: Keyboard Synthesizer
• Analog/Digital: Analog
• Number of Keys: 25
• Type of Keys: Synth Action
• Polyphony: Monophonic, Paraphonic Mode
• Number of Presets: 64 x Factory, 64 x User
• Number of Effects: 2
• Arpeggiator: Yes
• Sequencer: 32-step
• Power Source: 9V DC power supply (included) / USB bus-powered

Comes With:

• Knox Gear TX-100 Closed-Back Studio Monitor Headphones
• On Stage LPT5000 Computer Laptop Stand (Black)
• Knox Gear 3.0 4 Port USB Hub

Key Features:

• Features: Aphex Twin AFX Mode
• Effects Types: Distortion, Oscillator FM
• Oscillators: 2 x DCO, 1 x Sub-oscillator

Pros:

• Easy connectivity
• Versatile
• Lightweight
• Comes with accessories

Cons:

• Does not works with bass guitars very well.

Also Read: Best Digital Piano Under $3000

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Are analog synths better?

Ans: Analog synthesizers are immune from aliasing since they do not employ sampling. Analog synthesizers also offer better modulation performance when modulating one component with another at rates comparable to those of an audio spectrum (about 20Hz to 20kHz). Once again, this is due to aliasing.

Q: Do analog synths sound better than digital?

Ans: Some people find the sound of analog gear warmer and more pleasing than older digital synths, but that isn’t necessarily what you might be looking for. There is no point where one is better or worse than the other; they are just different in their own way.

Q: Why are analog synths so expensive?

Ans: Analog components have an expensive manufacturing process, so the cost of withholding sound from an analog chain can be high. In contrast, a digital algorithm can do the same thing (often pretty accurately!) for a much lower price. It is for this reason that analog synthesizers are generally more expensive than their digital counterparts.

Q: Are analog synths MIDI?

Ans: As we stand today, almost all synth modules – including analog synthesizers – are MIDI compatible. The majority of these non-MIDI synths have MIDI connectivity, but there is still a large number of “vintage” non-MIDI synths that lack MIDI connectivity but support control voltage.

Q: Are our modular synthesizers analog?

Ans: Unlike keyboards or desktop synthesizers, modular synthesizers can be either digital or analog, depending on the needs of the musician. We may think about the original modular synthesizers like Moog, Buchla, ARP, Serge, etc., as the first modular synthesizers.

Conclusion:

And there you have it, our list of best analog synths under $1000. As always, we hope our post will help you make the best decision for your music studio, regardless of size.

Related Posts

1. Best mandolin under $500
2. Best Busking Equipment For Vocals
3. Best Electronic Drum Set Under $500