In the world of music production, the allure of analog synthesizers has captivated musicians for decades. The warm, rich tones and the tactile nature of manipulating physical knobs and switches give these instruments a unique charm that simply cannot be replicated by their digital counterparts. While vintage analog synths can fetch exorbitant prices on the market, there are still some incredible options available for those on a budget. In this article, we will explore the 10 best analog synths under $1000 in 2024, focusing on models that offer full-size keys and multiple synth engines to give you the ultimate creative flexibility. Whether you’re a seasoned synth enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this list is sure to pique your interest and inspire your musical endeavors. Let’s dive in and discover the hidden gems of the analog synth world!
Behringer CRAVE Analog Synthesizer
Best inexpensive semi-modular synthesizer
The Behringer CRAVE Analog Synthesizer is a powerful and versatile instrument that is perfect for electronic music enthusiasts, DJs, and karaoke lovers. With its classic ladder filter and 3340 VCO, it delivers a rich and authentic analog sound that is sure to impress. The 32-step sequencer allows you to easily create complex and dynamic patterns, while the 16-voice poly chain opens up a world of creative possibilities. The build quality is solid and the controls are intuitive, making it easy for even beginners to dive into the world of modular synthesis. Overall, the Behringer CRAVE is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add some analog warmth and creativity to their music production or performances.
Semi-modular design allows for experimentation
MIDI connectivity
Analog signal path
Semimodular design
Portable and battery-powered
Little to no built-in storage
Noisy inputs and outputs
Size: 14.96 x 5.51 x 3.54 inches
Weight: 1.1 kilograms
Keys: 32
USB: yes
Color: Acid Yellow
Design: analog (Prophet 5 VCO)
Korg Minilogue Analog Synth
Best cheap analogue polysynth
The Korg Minilogue 4-Voice Polyphonic Analog Synth with Presets is a remarkable addition to any musician’s arsenal. This synthesizer offers a wide range of sounds and features that are sure to captivate both beginners and experienced players.
One of the standout features of this synth is its ability to produce four voices of polyphony, allowing for rich and complex sound layering. The analog sound engine delivers warm and authentic tones that are reminiscent of classic analog synths. Additionally, the preset function is a convenient addition that enables users to easily access and switch between their favorite sounds.
The interface of the Minilogue is intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy to navigate and experiment with different settings and parameters. The built-in sequencer and arpeggiator add even more creative options, allowing users to create intricate and elaborate musical patterns.
Overall, the Korg Minilogue 4-Voice Polyphonic Analog Synth with Presets is a highly recommended synthesizer for musicians looking to explore new sonic territories. Its versatility, quality sound, and user-friendly design make it a worthy investment for anyone interested in expanding their musical horizons.
Flexible, intuitive 4-voice analog synthesizer
Fully programmable
Flexible, hands-on control
Flexible, powerful voice architecture
Flexible, with good hands-on control
Noisy keys
Slim keys aren’t great for playing chords
Screen display size: 1 inch
Number of Keyboard Keys: 37
Style: Analog sound
Sounds: 200 preset
Manufacturer: Korg USA Inc.
Weight: 5 Pounds
Stylophone Gen X-1 Portable Electronic Synthesizer
Best portable standalone synth
The Stylophone Gen X-1 Portable Analogue Electronic Synthesizer is a fantastic addition to any musician’s toolkit. This synthesizer keyboard offers a wide range of features that make it perfect for both beginners and professionals alike. With its built-in speaker, it’s incredibly portable and easy to take on the go, making it ideal for musicians who are always on the move.
The sound quality of the Gen X-1 is truly exceptional. The analogue electronic synthesizer produces rich, warm tones that are reminiscent of classic vintage synthesizers. It also offers a variety of effects and filters that allow you to customize your sound to your liking. The keyboard itself is incredibly responsive, making it a joy to play and perform with.
One of the standout features of the Gen X-1 is its unique stylophone instrument. This innovative touch-sensitive keyboard allows you to play melodies by simply touching the keys with the included stylus. It’s an incredibly intuitive and fun way to create music and opens up a whole new world of possibilities.
Overall, the Stylophone Gen X-1 Portable Analogue Electronic Synthesizer is a truly impressive instrument. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting out, this synthesizer keyboard offers endless possibilities for creativity and expression.
Built-in speaker
Battery operated
Portable and battery powered
Portable with built-in speaker and optional battery operation
Can be played in two different ways
Difficult to play with precision
Build quality could be better
Weight: 440 Grams
Color: Black
Usage: 2 ways to make sounds
Waves: Square and triangle
Type: Portable Analogue Electronic Synthesizer
Material: Metal
Novation Compact 37 Synth
Best synthesizer for beginners
The Novation MiniNova Analogue Modelling Compact 37 Mini-key Synth is a true powerhouse in a small package. Its tough construction ensures that it will withstand the rigors of on-the-go music production, making it the perfect companion for any musician or producer. With its pitch-correcting effect vocoder, you can add depth and character to your vocals, creating unique and captivating performances.
Featuring 256 onboard sounds, the MiniNova offers a wide variety of options to suit any musical style or genre. Whether you’re looking for lush pads, biting leads, or punchy basses, this synth has got you covered. Additionally, the ability to layer up to five effects per voice allows for even more sonic possibilities.
The MiniNova’s bright blue design adds a touch of style to any setup. It is a versatile synthesizer that delivers professional-quality sounds and effects, making it an essential tool for any musician or producer.
Vocoder and pitch correction
Great vocoder
256 sounds, 128 extra available online
Animate and Save shortcuts for instant sound variations
Tons of versatile sounds built in
No way to play notes on the vocoder in real time
Mini-keys
Weight: 6 Pounds
Keys: 37
OS: Mac, Windows
Vocoder: Pitch-correcting effect
USB: Yes
Sound: Huge
Arturia MicroFreak Synthesizer Keyboard
Best inexpensive hardware synth
The Arturia MicroFreak Synthesizer Keyboard is a powerful and versatile instrument that truly stands out in the crowded market of synthesizer keyboards. With its unique combination of features, it offers a wide range of creative possibilities for musicians and producers.
One of the standout features of the MicroFreak is its hybrid synth engine, which combines wavetable and digital oscillators with analog filters. This allows for the creation of rich and complex sounds that can be easily sculpted to suit any musical style. The 25-key PCB keyboard provides a comfortable playing experience, while the intuitive interface makes it easy to navigate through the different settings and parameters.
Overall, the Arturia MicroFreak Synthesizer Keyboard is a game-changer in the world of synthesizers. Its innovative design, versatile sound engine, and user-friendly interface make it a top choice for both professional musicians and beginners looking to explore the world of synthesis.
Excellent paraphonic mode
Tons of sonic possibilities
Tons of wavetable options
Pressure-sensitive PCB keyboard with aftertouch
The 25-key circuit-board keyboard offers polyphonic aftertouch
Keyboard isn’t as expressive as it could be
Small keyboard
Color: Black
Weight: 1.1 Kilograms
Size: 12.2 x 9.2 x 2.2 inches
Connector Type: USB
Number of Keys: 25
Style: Experimental Hybrid Synth
Korg microKorg Analog Modeling Synthesizer
Best compact synthesizer
The Korg microKorg 37-Key Analog Modeling Synthesizer with Vocoder, available on the Korg Store, is a versatile and powerful synthesizer that offers incredible sound quality and a wide variety of features. With its compact and portable design, it is perfect for both studio and live performances.
The analog modeling technology used in the microKorg reproduces the sounds of classic synthesizers with impressive accuracy, providing users with a rich and warm tonal palette. The vocoder feature adds another layer of creativity, allowing users to create unique vocal sounds and effects. The 37 keys are responsive and easy to play, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced musicians. Overall, the Korg microKorg is a fantastic synthesizer that delivers exceptional sound and performance.
An all-in-one synth
Built-in vocoder
Includes a vocoder
Lots of pre-programmed sounds
8-band vocoder with gooseneck microphone included
Noisy keys
Mini keyboard
Battery: 6 AA alkaline
Sound: Analog Modeling
Keyboard: 37 keys
Arpeggiator: 6 types
Power Supply: DC 9 V
USB Connector: Type B
MOOG Analog Synthesizer Kit
Best DIY analog synth
The MOOG Mavis is a phenomenal standalone semi-modular analog synthesizer kit that every music enthusiast and professional should consider. Its impressive features include an analog oscillator, filter, envelope generator, and wavefolder. With these components, the Mavis produces an array of rich and vibrant sounds that captivate the listener’s ears.
The keyboard of the Mavis is both responsive and comfortable to play, providing a smooth and enjoyable experience for musicians of all skill levels. Additionally, the inclusion of a dust cover is a thoughtful touch, ensuring that the instrument remains in pristine condition even when not in use.
The MOOG brand is renowned for its exceptional quality, and the Mavis lives up to these high standards. Its sturdy construction and durable materials guarantee longevity, while its intuitive interface allows for easy navigation and seamless integration into any music setup. Overall, the MOOG Mavis is a standout tabletop synthesizer that surpasses expectations and is worth every penny.
Analog components for hands-on learning
Moog heritage at an affordable price
100% analog signal path
Completely analog signal path that captures classic Moog sound
Analog sound engine
Noisy, cramped keyboard
Loud keyboard action
Type: Analog
Weight: 15.1 ounces
Size: 9 x 5.25 x 1.5 inches
Design: 100% analog
Integration: Eurorack
Cre8audio Semi-Modular Analog Synthesizer
The best budget desktop monosynth
The Cre8audio Semi-Modular Analog Synthesizer, also known as the East Beast, is a powerful tabletop synthesizer that brings a unique and versatile sound to any music production setup. With its modular design, users have the flexibility to customize their sound by patching cables and connecting various modules together, allowing for endless creative possibilities.
One of the standout features of the East Beast is its sound quality. The analog circuitry delivers warm and rich tones, making it suitable for a wide range of genres from ambient and experimental to dance and electronic music. The build quality is also exceptional, with sturdy knobs and switches that feel like they can withstand heavy use.
Despite being a semi-modular synthesizer, the East Beast is surprisingly user-friendly. The layout is intuitive, making it easy for both beginners and experienced synthesizer enthusiasts to navigate and explore its sonic capabilities. Additionally, the wide range of built-in modules, including oscillators, filters, and envelopes, provides a solid foundation for creating complex and dynamic sounds straight out of the box.
Overall, the Cre8audio Semi-Modular Analog Synthesizer (East Beast) is a fantastic addition to any musician’s setup. Its sound quality, flexibility, and user-friendly interface make it a great choice for those looking to delve into the world of modular synthesis without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a seasoned synth enthusiast or a beginner looking to expand your sonic palette, the East Beast is certainly worth considering.
Eurorack-compatible
Can be used as a standalone or eurorack module
Expandable with Eurorack modules or full-format cases
Can be run as Eurorack module
Filter with selectable modes and dedicated cutoff and resonance knobs
Limited options for patching
Cre8audio’s patchbook app not available yet
Power: Power Adapter
Model: East Beast
Size: 40HP
Style: East Coast
Synthesis type: Analog
Weight: 2.5 pounds
Behringer MS-5 Analog Synthesizer
Best inexpensive 37-key synthesize
The Behringer MS-5 37-key Analog Synthesizer is a versatile and powerful instrument, perfect for any musician or producer looking to add unique sounds to their music. With its analog sound engine, this synthesizer offers warm and rich tones that are reminiscent of classic synthesizers from the past.
The MS-5 features a straightforward layout with 37 keys, making it easy to play and navigate through its various functions. It offers 4-voice polyphony, allowing for complex and layered sounds to be created. The built-in arpeggiator is a great addition, providing rhythmic patterns that can be synced to your music.
One standout feature of the MS-5 is its onboard effects section, which includes delay, chorus, and reverb. These effects can be dialed in to add depth and character to your sounds, enhancing the overall sonic experience.
Overall, the Behringer MS-5 37-key Analog Synthesizer is a reliable and affordable option for musicians and producers looking to explore the world of analog synthesis. Its versatile sound engine and user-friendly interface make it a great choice for both beginners and experienced synthesizer enthusiasts.
Extensive modularity
Fat, heavy sound
USB connectivity and external input for expanded sound capabilities
Switchable VCF types
Request a RevSYNTH
No velocity or aftertouch on keyboard
Uninspiring presets
Weight: 26.5 Pounds
Type: Monophonic Analog
Wavefms: 4
Size: 30.6 x 19.2 x 7 inch
VCF: 4-pole/1-pole
Behringer Pro VS Mini Synthesizer
The best budget Vector synthesizer
The Behringer Pro VS Mini Hybrid Vector Synthesizer is a remarkable piece of equipment in the world of synthesizers. With its compact size and versatility, it is perfect for both professional musicians and beginners alike. The synthesizer offers a wide range of sounds and effects, allowing users to experiment and create unique compositions.
One of the standout features of the Behringer Pro VS Mini is its Vector Synthesis technology. This innovative system allows users to blend four different sounds in real-time, resulting in rich and complex tones. The keyboard also has an extensive collection of built-in presets, making it easy for musicians to find the perfect sound for their songs.
In terms of build quality, the Behringer Pro VS Mini is solid and durable. The keys are responsive and well-built, providing an authentic playing experience. Additionally, the layout of the controls is intuitive and user-friendly, enabling musicians to navigate and adjust settings effortlessly.
Overall, the Behringer Pro VS Mini Hybrid Vector Synthesizer is a fantastic choice for those looking for a high-quality synthesizer that offers excellent versatility and sound options. Whether you’re a professional musician or just starting out, this synthesizer will undoubtedly elevate your music production to the next level.
Hybrid synthesis offers a wide range of sounds
Affordable
Module can be separated from keyboard
Loads of creative potential
The VS Pro model offers a hybrid engine
Not very good as a traditional keyboard
No built-in keyboard
Vectors: 16
Weight: 14.1 ounces
Size: 8.3 x 5.5 x 2.2 inches
Brand: Behringer
Module: 4-voice Hybrid Synthesizer
Connectors: 2.5mm jack