Electronic sounds have fascinated musicians and audiences alike for decades. What began in the early 20th century with laboratory and measurement equipment was transformed in the 1960s by synthesizer pioneers Robert Moog and Don Buchla, who shaped the foundation of what we now call the synthesizer. Their early modular systems and later analog synthesizers defined the principles still used today. The Moog Minimoog, in particular, became iconic thanks to its compact design and essential sound-shaping tools such as oscillators, mixer, filter, VCA, envelopes, controllers and an integrated keyboard.
Today, synthesizers exist for every need, budget and level of experience. Alongside established brands like Korg, Moog, Roland and Yamaha, many smaller manufacturers offer unique and exciting instruments. The once clear separation between purely digital and purely analog synthesizers has faded. Modern hybrid synthesizers combine digital sound generation with analogue signal paths such as mixer, filter and VCA. This also applies to the modular world, where many modules now operate digitally using DSP chips and firmware.
Re-issues of true analogue classics remain extremely popular, including Black Corporation Deckard’s Dream (Yamaha CS-80 clone), ARP Odyssey, Korg MS-20 mini, Roland TB-03 (TB-303 clone), TR-808, Behringer MS-1, Behringer DeepMind and the Behringer Model D. Yamaha’s FM synthesis from the DX-7 era is also alive today in instruments like Reface DX, Yamaha MODX and Korg Volca FM.
Whether beginner, hobby musician or seasoned professional – there is a suitable instrument for everyone. With or without keyboard, as MIDI controller, step sequencer, rack unit or desktop device, digital or analogue, versatile or purpose-built: the choices are endless. Even experimental users are well-served, with numerous tools for controlling modular systems, DAWs or grooveboxes through tactile sensors. Noise artists also benefit from the rapidly expanding modular market. For playful creativity on a small scale, devices like Teenage Engineering’s Pocket Operator series offer surprising depth in a calculator-sized format.
Synthesizers are among the most versatile electronic instruments available. Creating and performing sounds with them is inspiring and offers limitless musical expression. Sound design has evolved dramatically since the early analog synthesizers of the 60s and the classic keyboard synths of the 70s and 80s. Today, along with subtractive synthesis, FM and wavetable, modern approaches like physical modelling, “East Coast”, particle and resonator synthesis are well-established. If you need classic analogue basses and leads, a compact analog synth will be ideal; digital synthesizers excel in entirely different sonic worlds.
Software-based instruments, including VST and software synthesizers, became widely available only after the Commodore/Amiga era. Today, powerful synthesizers exist for Android and iOS as well. Developers like Ableton, Arturia, Toontrack, Steinberg, u-he, Native Instruments and others create plug-ins and software that easily rival hardware. From emulations of vintage icons to innovative sound engines and sophisticated scoring tools, our range offers an extensive selection.
To make software instruments more intuitive and enjoyable, a wide range of DAW controllers is available. Keyboards in all sizes and controller units with knobs, faders and pads give musicians hands-on control for composing, producing and live performance.
In our online shop, synthesizers are organised into the following groups:
Since the world of modular synthesizers is exceptionally broad, we offer a separate category containing all modules, cases, complete systems and accessories. Whether you want to expand an existing setup or build a new system from scratch, you will find everything you need. Full details can be found on the respective product pages.
Our shop features synthesizers from numerous manufacturers and across many price ranges. Once you have found the right instrument, you can order comfortably from home with our 30-day return policy and fast delivery.
You are also welcome to visit our in-store synthesizer department and try out the instruments in person. Our experienced staff will gladly assist you. Hands-on patching and experimentation are highly encouraged!
Access, Akai, Analogue Solutions, ARP, Arturia, Behringer, Black Corporation, Clavia, Critter & Guitari, Doepfer, Dreadbox, Elektron, Jomox, MAM, Moog, Korg, Novation, Roland, Sequential, Studiologic, Teenage Engineering, Twisted Electrons, V3 Sound, Vermona, Waldorf, Yamaha