ƒudoComplex chords, multi-timbral parts or lush ambient progressions – if you’re looking to fulfil any of these duties on a synth, then you’ll likely want one with polyphonic talents. A polyphonic synthesizer is one that is capable of playing multiple notes at a time, with each note often referred to as a voice.

• READ MORE: Best free software and apps for music-making: Top free DAWs, plug-ins, instruments and more

In the last few years, hardware instruments have been enjoying a major resurgence; polysynths and their monophonic brethren now come in more shapes, sizes and employ more varied forms of synthesis than ever before.

Generally speaking, polysynths also tend to be more expensive than their monophonic counterparts; because each voice includes not just an oscillator, but often its own filter and envelope shaping components – things can get expensive fairly quickly.

In our list, we’ve compiled the best polysynths over a range of prices, so that – whether it’s a steadfast studio companion you’re looking for, or something compact to join the rest of your setup – you’ll be able to find the best one for you. Let’s dive in.

16 best polysynths at a glance:

• Oberheim OB-X8
• UDO Super 6
• Roland Jupiter X
• Ashun Sound Machines Hydrasynth
• Moog Muse
• Dreadbox Nymphes
• Waldorf Kyra
• Roland Juno-X
• Novation Summit
• Arturia PolyBrute
• Korg Minilogue XD
• Waldorf Quantum
• Korg Opsix MKII
• Sequential Prophet-10
• Elektron Analog Four Mk II
• Behringer Deepmind 12
• UDO Super Gemini
• Korg Wavestate MkII
• Oberheim TEO-5

Oberheim OB-X8

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If you don’t know about Oberheim, then you should. Oberheim began in 1969, pioneering analogue synthesizers. Renowned for iconic sound, its synths are known for their warmth and versatility, having landed in some legendary studios over the years. The Oberheim synthesizer is renowned for its iconic sound and groundbreaking features, making it a staple in music production. With its rich analogue tones and versatile modulation capabilities, it’s a go-to choice for musicians seeking classic warmth and sonic versatility.

Key Features:

• Eight-voice polyphony
• Analogue voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs)
• Dual multimode filters
• Ample modulation options
• Iconic Oberheim sound signature
• Price: $5,833

Check out deals for the OB-X8 at Thomann.

UDO Super 6

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Bristol-based UDO caused quite the stir when it unveiled the Super 6, its inaugural instrument, at the 2019 Superbooth in Berlin. We’re happy to report that the polysynth lived up to the hype, earning not only a perfect score in MusicTech’s review, but a well-deserved Innovation Award as well.

The Super 6 is a 12-voice polysynth equipped with FPGA-driven DDS oscillators and a host of useful features and effects. One of the polysynth’s biggest draws is also its namesake; a unique binaural mode lets you mash its 12 voices down into six super voices, creating a distinct texture-thickening effect. This mode is the pathway down uncharted sonic territory, where riveting spatial effects shine and help set the synth apart from its peers.

The Super 6 is definitely an expert-level synth, especially for the money, but, if you’re looking for something replete with functions to get lost in, definitely consider it.

Key Features:

• Price: £2200
• Synthesis type: Analogue-hybrid
• Polyphony: 12 voices
• Keyboard: Fatar keybed, 49 keys
• Effects: Stereo chorus, stereo delay

Read our full review of the Super 6 here and learn more about it at udo-audio.com.

Check out deals for the Super 6 at Thomann. 

Roland Jupiter X

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The voice of reason screams at the very thought of paying £10,000 for a pre-loved Roland Jupiter 8 – and yet, it’s hard to deny that few vintage polysynths have ever come to earn such high regard. Enter the Jupiter X, a convincing doppelganger of the esteemed classic that’s as much a joy to look at as it is to actually play.

• READ MORE: Vintage Rewind: The Roland Jupiter 8

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the Jupiter X is not an analogue device. However, Roland’s ZEN-Core technology, along with some cleverly engineered elements let you get pedantic with the emulation. There are options that let you decide the synth’s age (up to 100 year); detuning due to operating temperature, and also, whether to use a faux ‘circuit warm-up’ cycle.

Digital modelling also means that you aren’t limited to just emulating the Jupiter 8; the Jupiter X comes preloaded with other models such as the Juno 106, SH-101 and even drum machines like the TR-808/909 and CR-78.

Key Features:

• Price: $2,799
• Synthesis type: Subtractive
• Polyphony: 32 voices
• Keyboard: Semi-weighted, 61 keys
• Pads: 16 button triggers
• Effects: 90; multi-effects, 5x EQ, 7x reverb, 4x chorus, 5x delay, Overdrive, Compressor

Read our full review of the Jupiter X here and learn more about it at roland.com.

Check out deals for the Jupiter X at Thomann. 

Ashun Sound Machines Hydrasynth

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Deep sound designing talents and expressiveness come together in the Hydrasynth. This eight-voice polysynth has three wavetable oscillators per voice that let you create and morph sounds out of a selection of 219 single cycle waveforms.

The layout of the Module Select section is one of the Hydrasynth’s unsung strengths. This concise hub lets you access its three oscillators, four mutators, two filters, five envelopes, and five LFOs with the push of a button. Plus, it ensures that a glimpse of the Hydrasynth’s entire signal path is always just a head turn away.

Rounding off the Hydrasynth are some intuitive expression controls, including the brand’s own polyphonic aftertouch technology – aptly named polytouch – and a programmable ribbon strip controller.

Key Features:

• Price: $1,299 (with keyboard) / $800 (desktop)
• Synthesis type: Wave morphing
• Polyphony: 8 voices
• Keyboard: Full-sized, 49 keys
• Effects Types: 4x reverbs, 5x delays, chorus, flanger, rotary, phaser, Lo-Fi, tremolo, EQ, compressor
  Other I/O: 2x mod in, pitch out, gate out, 2x mod out, clock out

Read our full review of the Hydrasynth here and learn more about it at ashunsoundmachines.com.

Check out deals for the Hydrasynth at Thomann.

Moog Muse

An eight-voice, bi-timbral polyphonic synthesizer drawing on the company’s rich heritage, Moog’s Muse is a force to be reckoned with, delivering gorgeous analogue sounds in an incredibly accessible format.

• READ MORE: “We’re honouring the legacy of Bob Moog; making instruments that give you his iconic sound” Moog talks Muse

At its core are two analogue oscillators per voice, inspired by the rich and full sound of the Minimoog Voyager, along with a third oscillator that’s also capable of audio-rate modulation. The filter section boasts two discrete Moog Ladder filters based on the classic 904-A module, which can be configured to run in sequence, parallel, or stereo.

The synth has been designed with hands-on control in mind, with intuitive sound shaping made possible by its knob-per-function layout. Other features include a step sequencer with intriguing probability functions, a diffusion delay module for rich stereo effects, and a comprehensive modulation matrix that simplifies complex routing.

Key Features: 

• Price: $3,499
• Synthesis type: Subtractive
• Polyphony: 8 voices
• Keyboard: 61-key Fatar

Check out our full Moog Muse review for all the details.

Dreadbox Nymphes

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Dreadbox’s Nymphes is a quirky synthesizer ideal for producers looking for something a little different. While its functions can be a fiddle at first, the analogue warmth it produces is a sufficient reward for your toils. For such an affordable price, you get MIDI control over every parameter, a lush sounding reverb and a weighty slab of complex sound design options.

In our review of Nymhpes, we said: “Nymphes offers multiple sonic personalities, with rasping basses, ethereal pads, spiky, wonky melodies, blunt sounds perfect for sequencing and a host of options for electronic percussion. Its sound is deep, broad and versatile but, just as significantly, it’s not awash with flashy gimmicks trying to impress you.”

Key Features:

• Price: $599
• Synthesis type: Wavetable
• Polyphony: 6 voices
• Effects Types: FV-1 Digital Reverb
• Other I/O: 1 x 1/4″ TS, 1 x 1/8″, MIDI In/USB

Read our full review of the Nymphes here and learn more about it at dreadbox-fx.com.

Check out deals for the Nymphes at Thomann.

Waldorf Kyra

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The Waldorf Kyra is a powerful virtual analogue desktop synth capable of delivering absolutely massive sounds. It splits into eight independent parts, each offering 32 voices of polyphony; its own effects chain, and two comprehensive oscillator groups, where you’ll find saw, pulse, and a selection of 4096 wavetable shapes.

Each oscillator voice can be run in either Wave or Hypersaw mode. The former gives you the freedom to construct sounds through subtractive synthesis, while the latter’s algorithm features six oscillators that can very quickly create lush soundscapes.

The Kyra is also particularly appealing if you’re working in contemporary production; its user-friendly interface and the immediacy with which you can sculpt colossal sounds just means more time to focus on the creative process.

Key Features:

• Price: $2,499
• Synthesis type: Wavetable
• Polyphony: 128 voices, 32/part
  Effects: Distortion, Stereo Delay, Phaser, Chorus, Flanger, Doubling, Reverb, Filter
• MIDI I/O: In/Out/Thru/USB

Read our full review of the Kyra here and learn more about it at waldorfmusic.com.

Check out deals for the Kyra at Thomann.

Roland Juno-X

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If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a battery-powered JUNO-60 or 106 with built-in speakers – well, here it is. The Roland Juno-X is a versatile digital polysynth, uniting classic Juno aesthetics with modern functionality. Boasting 61 velocity-sensitive keys, aftertouch, and Zen-Core technology, it offers over 4,000 presets, multi-layered scenes, and I-Arpeggio. It’s a solid choice for producers looking for that classic Juno sound with intuitive control in a compact package.

MusicTech reviewed the Juno X in 2022, praising its “beautiful, distinctly Juno design”, Zen-Core tech which provides “almost-endless sounds”, and its Scenes function.

Key Features:

• Price: £1,689 GBP / $1,666 USD / €1,999 EUR
• Synthesis Type: Digital with Zen-Core Technology
• Polyphony: Not specified in the provided information.
• Keyboard: 61-key velocity-sensitive with aftertouch
• Effects: Reverb, delay, drive, and more

Read our full review of the Juno-X here and find out more about it at roland.com.

Novation Summit

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The Novation Summit puts together two of the brand’s Peak desktop synths into a single package – but it’s not quite as simple as doubling up on everything.

In addition to bi-timbral operation, new hardware and software features make it onto the Summit, including a semi-weighted keyboard with 61 keys and a new voice section with five mono and poly modes.

Through its three oscillators, you’re able to craft sounds through subtractive, wavetable (60 waveshapes) and FM synthesis. Plus, access to twin Peaks gives you the flexibility to run two simultaneous patches – split or stacked – for key-centric or layered sounds.

Key Features:

• Price: $2,199
• Synthesis type: Subtractive, FM and wavetable
• Polyphony: 16 voices
• Keyboard: Semi-weighted keybed, 61 keys
• Effects Types: Analog Distortion, Reverb, Chorus, Delay
• Other I/O: 1x 1/8″ (CV mod in)

Read our full review of the Summit here and learn more about it at novation.com.

Check out deals for the Summit at Thomann. 

Arturia PolyBrute

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As you might have guessed from its name, the PolyBrute is Arturia’s polyphonic take on the beloved analogue beast that is the MatrixBrute. This six-voice polysynth gives you two waveshaping oscillators; a ladder and Steiner filter, which can be run in parallel or serial; three envelopes and three LFOs.

The PolyBrute implements its expression features neatly into its overall design. In addition to mod and pitch wheels, a Morphée controller gives you pressure-sensitive X, Y and Z expression. Plus, something you might miss out on: there’s a ribbon strip worked right into the wooden front panel.

Deep shaping abilities and an elegant design come together in a luxurious-looking polysynth, and so, it’s expected that the PolyBrute comes at a premium. However, its comprehensiveness makes it an ideal studio companion for tackling productions of all kinds.

Key Features:

• Price: $2,899
• Synthesis type: Subtractive, FM
• Polyphony: 6 voices
• Keyboard: Full-sized keybed, 61 keys
• Effects: Modulation, Delay, Reverb
• Other I/O: 1x 1/8″ (sync in), 1x 1/8″ (sync out)

Read our full review of the Polybrute here and learn more about it at arturia.com.

Check out deals for the Polybrute at Thomann.

Korg Minilogue XD

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The Korg Minilogue XD matches capable specs with a sensible price tag, making it a great choice for entry-level music-makers looking to get into synthesis.

This four-voice polysynth is the successor to the Minilogue and offers the same two analogue voltage-controlled oscillators, but adds a third digital one (with noise, vpm and 16 user programs) for more sound design flair.

Onboard, there’s also myriad delay, mod and reverb effects, four operating modes (poly, unison, chord and arpeggiator) and, to round it off, a neat joystick controller for pitch bend and modulation depth.

Key Features:

• Price: $730
• Synthesis type: Subtractive, FM, wavetable
• Polyphony: 4 voices
• Keyboard: Slim keybed, 37 keys
• Effects: Chorus, Phaser, Flanger, Delay, Reverb, Ensemble
• Other I/O: 2x 1/8” (CV in), 1/8” Sync in, 1/8” Sync out

Read our full review of the Minilogue XD here and learn more about it at at korg.com.

Check out deals for the Minilogue XD at Thomann.

Waldorf Quantum

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A sound designer’s paradise, the Waldorf Quantum is a digital-analogue hybrid synth which offers eight voices of polyphony, each with three oscillators that can be run in wavetable, granular, subtractive and resonator modes.

A well-designed user experience paves the way for deep sonic exploration. Clearly marked sections denote oscillators, LFOs, filters, modulators, effects and more, plus, each parameter change is reflected in a crisp touch-screen display, showing you exactly how you’re affecting the signal. Other features include an arpeggiator with seven algorithms and sort orders and a step sequencer with parameter automation, quantisation and more.

The Quantum succeeds at empowering music-makers creatively; for how advanced it can get, it manages an easy-to-follow user experience.

Key Features:

• Price: £3,500/$6,200
• Synthesis type: Wavetable, granular, subtractive and resonator
• Polyphony: 8 voices
• Keyboard: Fatar keybed, 61 keys
• Effects: Phaser, Flanger, Chorus, Reverb, Drive, EQ

Read our full review of the Quantum here and learn more about it at waldorfmusic.com.

Check out deals for the Quantum at Thomann.

Korg Opsix MKII

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Korg took a leaf out of its own book with Opsix, applying the simplistic concept of its Wavestate to a new FM synth. The six-operator Opsix synth builds on the legacy of the revered Yamaha DX7 FM synth pioneer, with plenty of operator functions, filter types and modulation options.

In January, just in time for NAMM 2024, Korg unleashed a series of new releases, including the microKORG 2. Another head-turning announcement was that of the Korg Opsix MKII altered FM polyphonic synth.

Following its 2020-launched predecessor, the Opsix MKII features doubled polyphony (64 voices up from 32), a 16-step sequencer, intuitive real-time controls, OLED display, 3-stage effects, analogue-style filters, a randomiser function, and six operator modes.

Key Features:

• Price: £699
• Synthesis type: FM
• Polyphony: 64 voices
• Keyboard: 37 keys
• Effects: 11 filters, 30 different effects in three categories

Find out more about the Opsix MKII at korg.com.

Sequential Prophet-10

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Sequential’s Prophet-10 is back and this comprehensive reboot of the iconic synth culls some of the best features of previous generations, while adding some modern ones too.

A new Rev switch lets you access the filters from the Rev 1, 2 and 3 models, while a new Vintage knob lets you rewind the synth’s sonic characteristics back in time, from the stable Rev 4 to the temperamental Rev 1.

In our review of the Prophet-10, we said: “The Prophet-10 is an absolute joy. It sounds warm, fat, lush but, above all, effortlessly fantastic. Think about so many of the tricks synths rely on to capture your interest, whether it’s a slew of onboard effects or multiple synthesis personality types.”

Key Features:

• Price: $4,399
• Synthesis type: Subtractive
• Polyphony: 10 voices
• Keyboard: Semi-weighted Fatar keybed, 61 keys
• Other I/O: 2x 1/4″ (CV in/out), 1x 1/4″ (gate in/out), 1x 1/4″ (release)

Read the full review of the Prophet-10 here and find out more about it at at sequential.com.

Check out deals for the Prophet-10 at Thomann.

Elektron Analog Four Mk II

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Robust and designed to play well with others – thanks to CV ins-and-outs – the Analog Four Mk II can be deployed as part of a larger system or on its own. This four-voice analogue synth comes with a built-in sequencer, arpeggiator, and reverb, chorus and delay effects.

The A4 lets you assign up to four notes to a voice, where each voice is made up of two oscillators and a sub. A popular on-the-go rig these days also pairs the A4 with the other Dark Trinity boxes from Elektron: the Analog RYTM, Analog Four and Octatrack. With these, you’re covered from beats to synths to samples.

Key Features:

• Price: $1,499
• Synthesis type: Subtractive
• Polyphony: 4 voices
• Keyboard: Single octave trigger keypad
• Effects: Reverb, Delay, Chorus, Overdrive
• Other I/O: 4x 1/4″ (CV/Gate out)

Read our full review of the Analog Four Mk II here and find out more about it at elektron.se.

Check out deals for the Analog Four MK II at Thomann.

Behringer DeepMind 12

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When not making accurate emulations of classic synths, Behringer does come through with some lovely unique items. DeepMind 12 is one of those.

The Behringer DeepMind 12 is celebrated for its affordable price tag, yet it doesn’t compromise on quality or features. With its vast array of oscillators, filters, and modulation options, it offers endless sonic possibilities, making it a go-to choice for both beginners and seasoned synthesists.

Key Features:

• Price: $798
• 12-voice polyphony
• Two DCOs per voice
• 24 oscillators
• Classic analogue filters
• Extensive modulation matrix
• Built-in effects

Read our review of the DeepMind 12 here and find out more about it at behringer.com.

Check out deals for the DeepMind 12 at Thomann.

UDO Super Gemini

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Building upon the acclaimed sound of the Super 6, UDO’s analogue-hybrid Super Gemini ups the ante to 20-voice polyphony. Its dual-layer architecture provides immediate, comprehensive control over two timbral layers, enabling intricate sound sculpting in real time.

Each of the 20 voices is powered by unique digital hardware oscillators capable of wave morphing, cross and ring mod, and bidirectional sync. From there, these oscillators feed into an all-analogue signal path inspired by classic vintage instruments, for a rich and versatile sonic palette.

With a 61-note semi-weighted keyboard, the Super Gemini is just as pleasurable to play as it is to programme, delivering highly expressive performances thanks to polyphonic aftertouch and a custom-engineered ribbon controller.

Key Features:

• Price: £3,389
• Synthesis type: Bi-timbral analogue hybrid
• Polyphony: 20 voices
• Keyboard: 61 keys

Find out more about the Super Gemini at udo-audio.com.

Korg Wavestate MkII

In the early 1990s, Korg introduced the world to the Wavestation, and with it, a rhythmic new looping concept dubbed wave sequencing. Not completely unlike step programming, it allowed music-makers to combine samples to form new sounds which could be triggered via MIDI.

• READ MORE: Vintage Rewind: Korg Wavestation

Korg modernised this concept with the Wavestate in 2020, a polyphonic synth powered by Wave Sequencing 2.0. This technology introduced new parameters tied to pitch, volume, and more, letting the Wavestate achieve its signature hypnotic sounds, while boasting a much more organic feel than its predecessors.

Fast forward and we’ve now seen the release of the Wavestate MkII, which builds upon the success of its predecessor with expanded capabilities. Enhancements include increased polyphony up to 96 stereo voices, vector synthesis, modelled filters, and gigabytes of additional samples, along with an improved user interface and more robust build quality.

Key Features:

• Price: $719
• Synthesis type: Wavetable
• Polyphony: 96 stereo voices
• Keyboard: Full-sized, 37 keys
• Effects: chorus, flanger, phaser, wah, delay, tape echo, reverb, ring modulator, guitar amp, compressor

Oberheim TEO-5

Designed with the modern producer in mind, the TEO-5 delivers classic Oberheim sounds in a more compact and accessible format. This five-voice polysynth features analogue voltage-controlled oscillators and filters, including the legendary SEM filter circuit for that authentic Oberheim tone and presence.

• READ MORE: TEO-5, as told by Tom Oberheim: “If we made this 30 years ago, we’d have ruled the world”

A range of built-in effects — like chorus, delay, reverb, and phaser — provide immediate sound enhancements, while a 64-step polyphonic sequencer and multimode arpeggiator offer new avenues for creative composition and performance. And if you want to dial in a really complex patch, there’s a versatile modulation matrix where almost any routing is possible, including audio rate sources and destinations.

Key Features:

• Price: $1,499
• Synthesis type: Subtractive
• Polyphony: Five voices
• Keyboard: 44-key Fatar keybed

Find out more about the TEO-5 at oberheim.com.

For more buyer’s guides, go to MusicTech.com.

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