The Best Synthesizers Of 2024

Despite the overwhelming number of virtual instruments and software options, the allure of physical synthesizers remains as strong as ever. Thankfully, each year brings a fresh wave of new releases, offering more tactile control, additional voices, and an array of new sounds that inspire creativity. This year has been no different, and we're here to break down the best synthesizers of 2024.

Iconic brands like Moog and Oberheim have once again raised the bar, offering synthesizers that push the boundaries of unique sound. Meanwhile, newcomers like Vongon have made a splash, introducing fresh design perspectives and sleek functionality. Let's get to our list and check out our favorite new releases of the year.

Teenage Engineering OP-XY All-In-One Synthesizer, Sequencer & Sampler

Teenage Engineering returns with another head-turner, the OP-XY, a sleek, all-in-one synth, sequencer, and sampler designed for boundary-pushing creatives. Centered around a 64-step sequencer, it offers a perfect balance of precision and playful experimentation, letting you stack compositions and twist them with punch-in FX. With 24-voice polyphony, a powerful multi-out port, and deep connectivity options, OP-XY bridges the gap between studio and stage with ease.

Housed in a striking anodized aluminum chassis, it’s as durable as it is portable. Add its innovative gyroscope controls and you have a device that redefines live performance and production in a single, dynamic package.

Sequential Prophet-10 61-Key Polyphonic Analog Synthesizer - Special Edition Lacewood

Sequential takes a victory lap with the Prophet-10 Special Edition, celebrating 50 years of sonic innovation. Limited to just 150 units, this collector’s dream pairs the Prophet-10’s legendary 10-voice polyphonic analog sound with stunning lacewood panels. Under the hood, authentic Curtis VCOs and Dave Rossum-designed filters deliver the iconic warmth of Rev1, Rev2, and Rev3 Prophets, while a Vintage knob lets you dial in classic character.

Modern touches like velocity sensitivity, aftertouch, and a five-octave Fatar keybed elevate performance possibilities. Complete with a certificate of authenticity and embroidered dust cover, this synth is pure analog artistry.

Korg multi/poly 37-Key Virtual Analog Modeling Synthesizer

Korg has been on a roll this year, releasing a wave of popular synths (see below). The latest addition to the roster is the Korg multi/poly, which reimagines the iconic Mono/Poly with a cutting-edge blend of analog warmth and digital power. This powerhouse delivers rich, organic tones through its advanced Virtual Voice Cards and introduces innovative tools like Layer Rotate, Kaoss Physics, and Motion Sequencing 2.0 for limitless creative exploration.

Whether you’re crafting lush pads or experimental textures, the multi/poly’s dual-modeled filters, versatile oscillators, and comprehensive modulation capabilities ensure unparalleled sonic depth. Its sleek design, intuitive controls, and robust build make it a standout for studio and stage alike—a true next-generation synthesizer for modern sound designers.

Korg microKORG 2 Keyboard Synthesizer and Vocoder

The Korg microKORG 2 Keyboard Synthesizer and Vocoder reimagines a legend with modern power and versatility. From its vibrant 2.8-inch color display to the intuitive loop recorder and revamped vocal processor, this compact synth invites creativity at every turn. Its updated sound engine expands on the iconic microKORG's legacy, offering an impressive array of presets across Classic, Modern, and Future categories.

Perfect for stage or studio, the microKORG 2 pairs portability with cutting-edge features, including dynamic effects, a mini keybed for fast playability, and battery operation for music on the go. Classic design meets futuristic innovation in this must-have instrument.

Moog Muse 8-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer

This has been a big year for Moog analog synth lovers with not one, but several new releases. Up first from the iconic synth brand is the Muse, which brings together circuit designs and feature sets from some of the brand’s most beloved instruments.

In addition to discrete oscillators inspired by the legendary Minimoog Voyager, Muse features a variety of familiar circuits, including the MF-102 Ring Modulator, CP3 Mixer, 902 VCA module, and 904a Filter.

Muse doesn’t skimp on the performance controls either – it’s equipped with a 61-key Fatar keyboard with velocity and channel aftertouch, a left-hand controller with pitch and mod wheels, and a programmable Macro knob.

Plus, Muse comes loaded with a host of creative tools, including a powerful arpeggiator, polyphonic sequencer, chord memory, and the new Diffusion Delay processor, which is inspired by golden-era vintage digital rack delays.

Moog Labyrinth Parallel Generative Synthesizer

Also new from Moog in 2024 is the Labyrinth, a parallel generative semi-modular synthesizer that's perfect for dialing in highly textured and evolving soundscapes.

At the heart of the Labyrinth is a powerful dual sequencer capable of creating two unique eight-step patterns that play and interact with each other. Two onboard oscillators can create rich synth or percussive sounds, while the state variable resonant voltage-controlled filters help dial in more complex tones.

The Labyrinth continues the legacy of the Mother 32 series, boasting an extensive patch bay for unparalleled sonic exploration. Whether patching within the Labyrinth or integrating the synth with other Moog semi-modular instruments or modular gear from different brands, this patch bay offers limitless creative possibilities.

Vongon Replay 6-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer

Vongon has become known for its innovative pedals like the Ultrasheer and Paragraphs, but they entered the synth chat in 2024 with the Replay. This 6-voice polyphonic synth is an aesthetic dream with a simple and stately metal chassis, well-designed knobs and EQ-style sliders, and a 2 1/2 octave keyboard featuring Cherry MX keys.

When designing the Replay's sound, Vongon aimed for the vintage synth glory of poly faves like the Roland Juno, Korg Polysix, and Sequential Prophet 5. The Replay features four oscillator waveforms, seven low-frequency oscillator waveforms, and an incredible multi-mode arpeggiator.

Pittsburgh Modular Taiga Paraphonic Synthesizer

Pittsburgh Modular’s new Taiga synth combines everything you love about the original award-winning desktop module with a full-size 37-key premium aftertouch-enabled keybed. No need for MIDI or USB keyboard, it's all in one ready to go unit.

Since the keybed is a bit larger than the original desktop module, it gave Pittsburgh some more room to play with. In addition to spreading out the controls and using larger knobs for improved tactile response, the Taigi Keyboard also includes extra modulation sources and additional controls.

Staying true to the brand’s modular roots, Pittsburgh also added a first-of-its-kind 24hp powered Eurorack Modular Expansion Bay that you can use to insert your favorite Eurorack-compatible modules and customize your sound.

Arturia Polybrute 12 12-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer

With a focus on musical expressiveness, Arturia's new Polybrute 12 synthesizer is a performer's dream. In addition to being a powerhouse 12-voice polyphonic synth in its own right, the Polybrute 12 features several innovative performance-based controls.

Arturia's groundbreaking Full Touch keyboard tracks each key's position, pressure, and touch, offering unparalleled precision and seamless polyphonic aftertouch across the entire key movement range.

Polybrute 12 features three distinct aftertouch modes so that the synth can deliver everything from subtle nuances to powerful dynamics and momentum-sensitive envelope control. Combined with Arturia's iconic Morphée pad, wooden ribbon control, and motion recorder, Polybrute 12 offers truly unparalleled expressivity.

Oberheim TEO-5 Five-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer

We've got another "greatest hits"-style release on our list of the best synthesizers of 2024, as the Oberheim TEO-5 combines elements of the brand's vintage OB-X, Four Voice, and TVS synths. The TEO-5 recreates the classic Oberheim sound in a compact, affordable package, offering the perfect blend of analog warmth and modern features.

Equipped with genuine analog VCOs and VCFs with thru-zero FM, the TEO-5 delivers five-voice polyphony, hence the name. Combined with the brand’s iconic SEM filter and Oberheim FX, TEO-5 is bursting with soul.

To top it all off, you have a deep modulation matrix for dialing in complex sounds, a 64-step polyphonic sequencer, a multimode arpeggiator for creating pounding rhythms, and a premium 44-key Fatar keybed for performing on stage or in the studio.

ASM Hydrasynth Deluxe 16-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer

ASM's trusty Hydrasynth Deluxe has been around for a minute, so you may be asking why is it on a list of the best new synths of 2024? Good question, dear reader! In celebration of the Hydrasynth Deluxe's fifth anniversary, ASM has released a limited edition version (only 200!) of the synthesizer with a sparkly finish and custom-made side panels.

For those unfamiliar with the regular Hydrasynth Deluxe, let's break down what's happening with the synthesizer. This is a dual-engine synth with a total of 16 voices and a 73-note keybed. With this setup, you essentially have two regular Hydrasynths in one instrument. The Deluxe features KeySplit and Dual voice mode patches with eight independent voices each. And for this anniversary edition, there are new presets for both modes.

Korg Synths

Korg opsix MKII 64-Voice Polyphonic FM Synthesizer / Module

Korg modwave MKII 60-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer / Module

Korg wavestate MKII 96-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer / Module

Korg came into the 2024 NAMM Show at the start of the year with a full slate of new synthesizer releases. Not only did we get MKII updates of the wavestate, opsix, and modwave, but we also received desktop module versions of all three synths. The synth lords provideth. Let's take a look at what's new with each release.

Korg's update of the opsix FM synthesizer doubles the number of voices from 32 to 64 and the color-coded operator has a new color scheme. wavestate MK II has been loaded with more memory space and an increased number of voices from 64 to 96. Last but not least, modwave MK II sees an increase in voices from 32 to 60, new LFO functions, and new color style for the kaos pad.

UDO Audio Super 8 16-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer

UDO Audio is ending our list of the best synths of 2024 with a banger. The Super 8 finds itself smack dab in the middle of the brand's offerings, just in between the Super 6 (12 voices) and Super Gemini (20 voices). This new release is a 16-voice binaural stereo analog poly synth, and its dual-layer approach allows for independent effects to be applied to each layer.

If you’re interested in purchasing any of the best synthesizers of 2024 or have questions about other releases, we can help! Contact a Vintage King Audio Consultant via email or by phone at 866.644.0160.