Since their inception in the 1970s, synthesizers have revolutionized the live music scene. These remarkable instruments offer musicians unparalleled versatility, producing everything from sharp leads to the profound depths of the low end. The optimal synthesizer for a live setting is lightweight, straightforward to program, and abundant in presets, ensuring impeccable sound quality.
Over the decades, many professionals have embraced the magic of hardware synthesizers during their tours. While certain synthesizers excel in the confines of a studio, live performances demand instruments that balance durability with portability. This guide highlights the most proficient hardware synthesizers tailored for live scenarios, assisting seasoned artists and novices in refining their on-stage toolkits.
So, let’s dive into our favorite ones for the job!
Moog Sub 37 Analog Synth
The Moog Subsequent 37 CV synthesizer offers musicians a dynamic platform for live performances. This device boasts an enhanced analog signal path that broadens tonal choices, from powerful bass tones to melodic leads. It’s tailored for those wanting a hands-on approach, giving you complete control over sound shaping in real time. With a durable and attractive design that includes wooden end cheeks handcrafted in Asheville, NC, the Subsequent 37 CV merges quality craftsmanship with a fair price point, ensuring you get top-notch gear without breaking the bank.
Moog Subsequent 37 CV’s X-Factors Are:
- Enhanced Analog Signal Path: Offering greater sonic versatility, the re-tuned Multidrive circuit allows a broader range of tones, from subtle to aggressive.
- Duo Mode: This unique two-note paraphonic mode enables each oscillator to play separate notes simultaneously, permitting bass drones alongside leads or harmonic fifths, which can’t be done with a monophonic synth.
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Elektron Octatrack
The Elektron Octatrack MKII establishes itself as a cornerstone for electronic music enthusiasts, combining the prowess of an advanced sampler with the sequencing capabilities one desires on stage. With its eight stereo audio tracks and dedicated MIDI tracks, the Octatrack MKII is adept at real-time sample manipulation, offering unmatched pitch shifting and audio-stretching in a performance scenario. This sequencer’s design enhances live performance, ensuring that every button and encoder aids in the creative flow.
Elektron Octatrack MKII’s X-Factors Are:
- Advanced Audio Manipulation: Boasting real-time pitch shifting and audio-stretching, it allows musicians to twist and reshape sounds seamlessly during a performance.
- Optimized for Live Use: Featuring rugged backlit buttons, an ultra-smooth contactless crossfader, and a high-visibility OLED screen, every aspect of the Octatrack MKII is engineered for the rigors and spontaneity of live shows.
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Korg monologue
The Korg monologue offers a vibrant analog synthesis experience without breaking the bank. Derived from the highly-praised minilogue, it’s engineered specifically for deep monophonic bass and searing lead tones. With its onboard 16-step sequencer, crafting classic acid-style basslines becomes a breeze, and transposing on the fly requires a key press on the 25-key mini-keybed.
What sets it apart is the micro tuning capabilities, allowing for unique per-note tuning, and the built-in analog Drive circuit, which can effortlessly dial in anything from a warm boost to scorching distortion, vital for synths that must stand out in a mix.
Korg monologue’s X-Factors Are:
- Micro Tuning Capabilities: The monologue goes beyond standard tuning, allowing for individual note tuning opening up a world of sonic possibilities, from subtle detuning to striking dissonance.
- Durable Build for Performers: With a curved aluminum chassis and sturdily mounted knobs, the monologue promises reliability and resilience for the most demanding live environments.
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Roland FANTOM-06
The FANTOM-06’s standout features are its user-friendly interface and adaptive settings. Musicians can instantly access custom creative spaces called ‘scenes,’ allowing them to swap and chain sounds without interruptions. Such innovation ensures smooth transitions between sounds, precious during live performances. In addition, its classic TR-REC pattern sequencer, reminiscent of iconic Roland drum machines, gives it an edge for creating rhythmic parts. Furthermore, FANTOM’s updated sequencer has added capabilities like sub-steps and support for chords.
Regarding authenticity, FANTOM combines digital modeling, sampling, and analog synthesis. The onboard SuperNATURAL technology allows composers to have pianos that sound and respond as authentically as their acoustic counterparts. Additionally, FANTOM-06 serves as a bridge to other equipment, boasting masterful connectivity with other devices, including DAWs.
Roland FANTOM-06’s X-Factors Are:
- Innovative Scenes and Seamless Transition: Ensures uninterrupted creative flow with instant access and glitch-free transitions.
- Masterful Connectivity: Deep integration with DAWs and plug-ins, amplified with its onboard stereo audio interface, making it a hub for other devices in your setup.
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Nord Lead A1
The Nord Lead A1 analog modeling synthesizer should be on your radar for performers looking to bring their live game to another level. It’s a powerhouse of sound tailored for those who want quick access to a broad palette of tones. Its design encourages speedy patch creation, ideal for those moments on stage or in the studio when inspiration strikes. Its capabilities do not limit you – from fat leads to atmospheric pads and wall-shattering bass, it delivers. The Lead A1’s flexibility is amplified by its 4-part multitimbrality, each with dedicated effects, paving the way for endless sonic possibilities.
Its intuitive interface, with features like a unique oscillator block and the new “Like” list, ensures you’re never fumbling around when trying to find or create the right sound. And it doesn’t stop there. Including four distinct arpeggiators, each with a range of four octaves offers an array of rhythmic possibilities. Despite its vast functionality, the Nord Lead A1 remains incredibly portable and durable, making it a trustworthy companion for touring artists.
Nord Lead A1’s X-Factors Are:
- Unique oscillator concept: Eight configurations, including Pitch, Detune, Shape, and more, coupled with traditional analog and digital waveforms.
- Rapid Patch Creation: Equipped with tools like the “Like” list and Mutator, the A1 stands out in swift sound design and adjustments.
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Sequential Prophet REV2-8
The Sequential REV2 8-voice analog synthesizer module, evolving from the iconic Prophet ’08, is a powerhouse for live performances. Its dual DCOs, sub-oscillator, and renowned 2/4-pole resonant lowpass Curtis filter per voice, deliver a rich and dynamic sound spectrum. The onboard FX engine, offering reverbs, delays, chorus, and more, adds depth and ambiance, elevating any live act. The advanced polyphonic step sequencer, capable of intricate sequences in split-voice or stacked mode, enhances live performances with its versatility.
The knob-per-function top panel design of the Sequential REV2 ensures direct and effortless access to its extensive features, ideal for on-the-fly adjustments. This is particularly valuable in a live setting, where the duo Hello Yes finds indispensable. In a recent and exclusive interview with us, they remark, “The confusion and randomness the Rev 2 can create are among its best features,” reflecting its impact on their live performances and latest EP. Its robust build is also tour-ready, promising longevity and consistent performance, a must-have for musicians on the road.
Sequential REV2’s X-Factors Are:
- Curtis Filters: A classic design delivering an audacious and commanding sound reminiscent of the legendary synthesizers of the ’70s and ’80s.
- Powerful FX engine: Offers diverse effects, from reverbs to vintage-style BBD delays, enriching the overall sonic output and broadening the scope of live performances.
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Behringer VC-340 Analog Vocoder
The Behringer Vocoder VC340 synthesizer is a modern marvel for those craving a return to the golden era of analog synths. Channeling the iconic sounds of the ’70s and ’80s, this synthesizer delivers soaring analog strings and rich choral effects and houses a remarkable vocoder. Plug in an XLR mic and transport yourself into a world of Moroder-esque vocoder effects, enhancing your sound palette for live performances. Despite its rich features, the VC340 boasts a compact 37-key, desk-friendly, and portable design. Its tactile controls and wooden side panels evoke the charm of retro synthesizers while providing contemporary usability. Whether delving into the classics or crafting modern EDM, the Behringer Vocoder VC340 is a versatile tool for any live setup.
Behringer Vocoder VC340’s X-Factors Are:
- Analog BBD bucket-brigade chorus: Delivering authentic, warm modulation reminiscent of classic synth sounds.
- Dynamic Vocoder Capabilities: Enables various creative modulations using an XLR dynamic mic, from vintage to contemporary effects.
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Roland System-8
Roland’s System-8 synth captures the heart of what has made the brand iconic among keyboard enthusiasts. With its advanced Analog Circuit Behavior engine, the System-8 embodies the best of Roland’s signature sounds, stretching across generations. The base synth boasts eight voices and three oscillators, underpinned by filters that ooze warmth, making it perfect for creating resonant basslines and silky pads. However, its true brilliance is illuminated by its Plug-out technology.
This transformative feature allows users to integrate sound engines like Jupiter-8 and JUNO-106, morphing the System-8 into an entirely different instrument. On-the-fly sound-engine swapping takes flexibility to unprecedented levels, especially when you dive into Performance Mode, which lets users blend the internal engine with Plug-out models, birthing hybrid sounds. Plus, the user-friendly interface encourages exploration. With every significant function directly accessible on the main panel, live tweaks become second nature. And for the studio buffs, USB/MIDI and CV/Gate integrations ensure the System-8 slides seamlessly into any setup.
Roland System-8’s X-Factors Are:
- Plug-out Technology: Enables users to seamlessly load and switch between synth engines, expanding the instrument’s sonic palette.
- Performance Mode: Allows the blending of the internal sound engine with Plug-out models to produce unique layered voices and custom splits.
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Honorable Mentions
Ableton Push 3
Ableton’s Push 3 stands out as an unparalleled instrument for live performances. Beyond being a mere hardware synth and the reason why it’s under the honorable mention section instead of the official list, it incorporates a jog wheel, enabling swift browsing and device movement, essential for live situations. Its dual-method approach allows triggering clips via the screen and pad grid, providing unmatched flexibility. This ensures that performers can seamlessly blend instrument play and clip starting without any compromises, making transitions during live shows smoother.
The standout feature for live artists is the Push 3’s standalone mode, allowing operation without a tethered computer or power source. This feature is critical for performers, as it guards against potential tech interruptions during sets. Battery life is tailored for live gigs, and its comprehensive integration with Ableton Live ensures artists have every tool at their disposal onstage.
Moreover, the seamless transition between standalone and desktop versions, powered by Wi-Fi ‘continuity,’ ensures setlists and projects can be easily transferred, making pre-performance preparations a breeze. With its myriad input/output options and evolution as a holistic Digital Audio Workstation instrument, Push 3 is undoubtedly designed with live performances in mind.
Roli Seaboard Rise 2
The ROLI Seaboard RISE 2 is a testament to human creativity in an age dominated by AI-driven music.
This instrument is more than just a keyboard; it’s a revolutionary platform that reintroduces tactility and organic expression to music. Through its unique soft silicone surface, musicians can simulate genuine instrument sounds like the vibrato of strings, making it ideal for live performances where authenticity matters.
Its cutting-edge MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE) technology and striking design ensure that artists sound distinct and present a visually captivating experience on stage.
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