The world of synthesizers is ever-changing and ever-growing, with new and vintage technology helping to pioneer new sound design techniques and unique ways of making music. In this article, we’ll look at the best synthesizers for professionals and experienced synth enthusiasts who want something more advanced than a beginner model.

We’ll explore picks from Oberheim, Moog, Korg, Roland, and more, unpacking their unique features and why they’re suited to seasoned musicians.

2. Sequential Prophet 10

Key features

• 10-voice polyphony
• Rev 4 analog oscillators
• Vintage filter modes

Pros

• Classic Prophet sound
• Versatile modulation options
• Authentic CEM 3340 VCOs

Cons

• Lacks built-in effects

The Sequential Prophet 10 is a synthesizer that captures the essence of vintage sound while offering modern enhancements. With its 10-voice polyphony, it allows you to create lush, full-bodied chords and complex layered sounds. This synth features Rev 4 analog oscillators, which are designed to deliver the iconic warmth and richness associated with the original Prophet series.

The Prophet comes equipped with unique vintage filter modes which allow users to switch between different filter characteristics, providing a wide range of tonal possibilities, from creamy, smooth filters to gritty, aggressive ones. This flexibility makes the Prophet 10 incredibly versatile and suitable for various music genres and styles.

Another powerful aspect of the Prophet 10 is its vast modulation options. It includes multiple LFOs, an extensive modulation matrix, and a polyphonic step sequencer, enabling detailed and expressive sound design. The build quality is also top-notch, with a sturdy chassis and high-quality components that ensure durability and reliability in both studio and live settings.

While the Prophet 10 does not have built-in effects, its pure and powerful sound more than compensates for this. Plus, you can easily integrate external effects to further enhance your creations. The lack of built-in effects also keeps the signal path clean, preserving the synth’s pristine analog sound.

A modern powerhouse that incorporates the best of both worlds (classic sound and contemporary flexibility), the Sequential Prophet 10 is the perfect choice for any sound designer or performer.

3. Oberheim TEO-5 Analog Synthesizer

Key features

• Dual analog oscillators
• Multi-mode filter section
• Extensive modulation options

Pros

• Classic Oberheim sound
• Iconic SEM filter with selectable band-pass mode
• Dual digital effects with Oberheim legacy emulations

Cons

• Limited polyphony

The Oberheim TEO-5 Analog Synthesizer is a showstopper when it comes to classic analog sound, designed to deliver that signature Oberheim warmth and character. Featuring dual analog oscillators, it provides rich, full-bodied tones that are perfect for a wide range of musical genres.

The TEO-5’s oscillators can produce everything from deep basses to shimmering leads, making it a versatile tool for any professional musician.

Oberheim’s name is synonymous with some of the finest synthesizers and filters ever made, with the TEO-5 being no exception. Equipped with a powerful multi-mode filter section, you can choose between different filter types and a variety of tonal textures.

Whether you need a smooth, creamy filter for your pads or a biting, aggressive filter for your bass lines, the TEO-5 has you covered. This flexibility makes it an ideal choice for sound designers looking to experiment with different sonic possibilities.

The TEO-5 also boasts extensive modulation options, with multiple LFOs and an advanced modulation matrix. This enables detailed and expressive sound shaping, allowing you to create complex and evolving sounds. The robust build quality ensures that this synthesizer can withstand the rigours of both studio and live use, providing reliability and durability.

While the TEO-5 has limited polyphony, its monophonic capabilities are more than sufficient for creating powerful, expressive sounds. The focus on quality over quantity ensures that every note played is rich and full of character.

4. Teenage Engineering OP-XY

Key features

• Dynamic step-based sequencing with punch-in effects
• Multi-zone sampling
• Multi-output connectivity

Pros

• Exceptional creative control in sequencing
• Powerful sound layering and sampling
• Built-in motion-based performance tools

Cons

• Compact design limits polyphony range

The Teenage Engineering OP-XY should be on your radar if you’re after something innovative, versatile, and, put simply, more than a synthesizer. At its heart is a dynamic step-based sequencer, which allows for controlled, precise arrangement, with features like punch-in effects enabling you to manipulate loops in real time. To learn more about sequencers, check out our sequencer guide.

The multi-sampler also sets the OP-XY apart from other synths out there, offering the ability to trigger multiple sample zones at once. This tool lets you layer and blend sounds effortlessly, creating full, complex textures without needing additional equipment.

Plus, there’s a good range of connectivity options, with a multi-output port designed to manage a variety of gear, from drum machines to modular systems. It can very quickly become the hub of your setup, simplifying your workflow and maximising creative potential.

What’s more, the OP-XY takes innovation one step further with its built-in gyroscope that gives you intuitive, motion-based control. You can tilt the device to modulate a track or use its motion for expressive adjustments, whichever way you choose to take advantage of the gyroscope, the OP-XY offers one of the most interactive, hands-on music-making experiences on the market. Combined with enhanced synth engines and a sleek, portable design, it’s a powerhouse for synth lovers.

5. Roland Juno-X Programmable Polyphonic Synthesizer

Key features

• Advanced sound engine
• Classic Juno sound
• Intuitive programming interface

Pros

• Three synths in one with Juno-106 and Juno-6 models
• New Zen-Core synthesis engine with Model Expansions
• Onboard multi-effects processor including Master EQ

Cons

• Large size may not be suitable for travelling with

The Roland Juno-X Programmable Polyphonic Synthesizer is a modern take on a legendary classic, merging vintage Juno sounds with contemporary features. Its advanced sound engine captures the iconic warmth and depth of the original Juno series while offering enhanced capabilities for today’s musicians.

At the heart of the Juno-X is a powerful sound engine which faithfully recreates the classic Juno-60 and Juno-106 sounds, while also providing modern enhancements. This allows you to enjoy vintage tones alongside cutting-edge digital possibilities.

Additionally, the Juno-X offers a highly intuitive programming interface. With its user-friendly controls and clear layout, it makes sound design accessible and enjoyable, whether you’re tweaking presets or creating patches from scratch.

The Juno-X excels in versatile sound design. It includes numerous preset patches and the ability to create and store your own sounds, making it suitable for a wide range of musical genres and styles.

As expected with something of this calibre, the Juno-X has a slightly steep learning curve for complete beginners, but its comprehensive manual and online resources make it easy to get to grips with if you already have experience with synths.

Combining the best of vintage and modern sounds, the Roland Juno-X is a fantastic choice for seasoned synth players.

6. Melbourne Instruments Delia Motorized Morphing Polyphonic Synthesizer

Key features

• Motorized morphing capabilities
• Polyphonic sound engine
• Intuitive control interface

Pros

• Unique sound design options
• 12-note mode, delivers rich, layered sounds
• Discrete multi-mode filters, shape versatile tones

Cons

• Higher price range

The Melbourne Instruments Delia Motorized Morphing Polyphonic Synthesizer is a truly innovative instrument, designed to push the boundaries of traditional synthesis.

One of its most unique features is the motorized morphing capability, which allows for seamless transitions between different sound parameters. This opens up new avenues for dynamic sound design, making it possible to create evolving textures and intricate soundscapes with ease.

Equipped with a polyphonic sound engine, the Delia can handle complex chords and multi-layered arrangements, ensuring rich and detailed sonic output. It’s perfect for professional musicians and producers who require versatility and depth in their sounds.

The polyphony combined with motorized morphing means you can achieve sounds that shift and change in real-time, providing an unparalleled level of expression.

Another standout feature of the Delia is its intuitive control interface. Designed to be user-friendly, it allows for easy programming and sound manipulation, with a range of knobs, sliders, and buttons (all motorized) providing tactile feedback and precision control. This makes it highly accessible for both live performances and studio work.

The unique features and high build quality of the Delia are reflected in its price; however, it’s also built to last, with a robust construction that will remain a reliable part of your setup for years to come.

7. Arturia Astrolab 61-Note Synthesizer

Key features

• 34 instruments and 1300 presets
• Multi-mode analog filters
• Advanced modulation matrix

Pros

• 61-note semi-weighted keybed
• Ideal for the studio or the stage
• Intuitive interface

Cons

• Limited polyphony

The Arturia Astrolab 61-Note Synthesizer is a versatile instrument that offers a blend of classic analog sound and modern features. It boasts a 61-note keyboard, providing a wide range for intricate playing styles and complex compositions. This extended keyboard makes it ideal for professional musicians who need both range and expression in their performances.

Another key feature of the Astrolab is its multi-mode analog filters. These filters offer a variety of tonal options, from warm, smooth sounds to sharp, cutting tones. Their versatility caters to a wide variety of musical styles and lets you shape your sound with precision. It’s particularly beneficial for sound designers looking to explore different sonic textures and moods.

The advanced modulation matrix is another highlight of the Astrolab. With extensive routing options, this matrix enables you to modulate parameters in intricate ways. Despite having a limited polyphony, it’s a powerful tool, producing complex sound design and giving you dynamic performance capabilities.

As well as a high-quality construction, the Astrolab has an intuitive interface with clearly labelled controls and a logical layout that makes sound manipulation straightforward.

8. ASM Hydrasynth Deluxe

Key features

• Dual sound engines
• Polyphonic aftertouch
• Comprehensive modulation matrix

Pros

• 73-key polyphonic aftertouch keybed
• Three digital wavetable oscillators and two filters per voice
• Expressive performance capabilities

Cons

• Complex interface can affect some users’ workflow

The ASM Hydrasynth Deluxe is a powerhouse synthesizer that offers a remarkable blend of advanced features and expressive capabilities, making it an excellent choice for professional musicians and producers.

The powerful dual sound engines allow for an incredibly versatile range of sounds, and they can be used independently or layered together, giving you the ability to create complex and rich textures. There’s also polyphonic aftertouch, giving you nuanced control over each note and providing a highly expressive playing experience.

The comprehensive modulation matrix offers extensive routing options, so you can modulate almost any parameter with precision. If you want to create intricate and evolving sounds, the Hydrasynth Deluxe is a great choice.

9. Polyend Synth Multi-Engine Polyphonic Synthesizer

Key features

• Allows you to layer three synths 
• Eight unique synth engines
• Polyphonic aftertouch

Pros

• Great sound layering possibilities
• Instant scene recall for smooth performances
• Intuitive, real-time visual feedback

Cons

• Interface may feel complex to beginners

The Polyend Synth Multi-Engine Polyphonic Synthesizer is perfect if you’re after more control over your sound. One of its most unique benefits is how it lets you layer three synth engines at once, which is ideal for building textured, immersive sounds. And because you can tweak each layer separately, it’s easy to create sounds that stay interesting and unlike anything else.

This synth has eight sound engines to play with, each bringing something unique to the mix. You’ve got GRAIN for ambient textures, FAT if you’re after a classic bass-heavy tone, PHZ, which combines retro and modern phase distortion, and more. With these engines, you’re not limited by genre – there’s a range here that covers anything from warm, vintage sounds to detailed, experimental tones.

To top it all off, the Polyend Synth includes three customisable effects: modulation, delay, and reverb, each letting you add depth and atmosphere to your patches. With an intuitive 3×3 knob matrix, you can control parameters on the fly without getting lost in menus, and the visual feedback lets you see each adjustment as you go. It’s a well-thought-out setup that makes it easy to stay creative and spontaneous, making it a fantastic choice for performers and sound designers alike.

10. Arturia MINIFREAK Polyphonic Hybrid Synthesizer

Key features

• Two digital sound engines with analog filtering
• Six-voice polyphony
• Advanced modulation capabilities

Pros

• 10 powerful digital effects
• Compact and portable
• 64-step sequencer and performance arpeggio

Cons

• Smaller keybed can be limiting

The Arturia MINIFREAK Polyphonic Hybrid Synthesizer is another mini powerhouse that combines the best of both digital and analog synthesis. This unique hybrid approach gives you a vast sonic palette to explore and experiment with, making it an ideal choice for professionals seeking versatility and innovation in their music production.

Blending digital and analog elements seamlessly, the hybrid sound engine showcases true sonic power when it comes to sound design. This combination provides a wide range of sounds, from rich, warm analog tones to sharp, precise digital textures. The six-voice polyphony adds to its versatility, allowing for complex chord progressions and lush soundscapes.

The advanced modulation capabilities of the MINIFREAK set it apart from other synthesizers in its class. With a comprehensive modulation matrix, you can route various parameters to each other, creating dynamic and evolving sounds.

Better still, the MINIFREAK is compact, portable, and easy to integrate into any studio setup. Even though our list is for experienced synth players, this one is also suitable for beginners thanks to its lower price point and user-friendly interface that ensures a smooth workflow.

However, the effects section is somewhat limited compared to other high-end synthesizers, but the MINIFREAK’s sound engines and modulation options make up for this.

The MINIFREAK is a fantastic synth for professionals on the move or in the studio, offering a unique blend of digital and analog capabilities in a compact design. Its dual sound engines, polyphony, and modulation capabilities make it a powerful addition to any musical arsenal.

11. Expressive E OSMOSE Expressive Synthesizer

Key features

• Expressive touch keybed
• Deep sound modulation
• Advanced physical modelling engine

Pros

• Highly expressive performance
• Deep articulation and hands-on sound manipulation
• Innovative design

Cons

• Steep learning curve

Last, but certainly not least, is the Expressive E OSMOSE Expressive Synthesizer, a groundbreaking instrument that redefines how musicians interact with synthesizers, courtesy of its expressive touch keybed.

This keybed responds to velocity, aftertouch, and pressure in multiple dimensions, enabling a highly nuanced and expressive performance that traditional keyboards cannot match. Adding to its cutting-edge expressive technology is the advanced physical modelling engine. This engine is capable of producing a vast array of sounds, from realistic acoustic instruments to entirely new synthetic textures.

The deep sound modulation capabilities allow you to shape these sounds in intricate ways, making the OSMOSE incredibly versatile for both live performances and studio recordings.

This steep learning curve is a small trade-off for the vast creative potential it provides. While the OSMOSE is a premium instrument with a price tag to match, its expressive capabilities and versatile sound design make it a worthy investment for serious musicians and producers. It is particularly well-suited for those looking to push the boundaries of traditional keyboard playing and explore new sonic territories.

This cutting-edge synthesizer has seriously turned the tide in innovation when it comes to synthesis design and expression. Its unique keybed, advanced modulation, and physical modelling engine make it a revolutionary tool for modern music creation.