#1
Korg Minilogue
4-Voice Analog Polysynth · 4 voices, 2 VCOs per voice, 16-step sequencer, oscilloscope display$280–$420 usedBest for: Players who want real analog polyphony without four figures
The Korg Minilogue is one of the most significant synthesizer releases of the last decade: a true analog polysynth with 4 voices at an entry-level price. The built-in oscilloscope display shows the waveform in real time — both useful for learning synthesis and visually fascinating. Used Minilogues are the best value in analog synthesis.
What to check used: Minilogue voices can drift slightly out of tune in temperature changes — normal analog behavior, not a defect. Auto-tune function corrects this in seconds.
#2
Arturia MicroBrute
Analog Monosynth · Single VCO with wave mixer, Steiner-Parker filter, 64-step sequencer, CV/Gate$150–$230 usedBest for: Beginners who want hands-on analog synthesis on a tight budget
The MicroBrute is Arturia's entry-level analog monosynth and remains one of the best synthesis learning tools made. Every parameter has a dedicated knob. The Steiner-Parker filter has a distinctive character unavailable elsewhere at this price. CV/Gate connectivity integrates with modular synthesizer systems for future expansion.
#3
Roland JD-Xi
Analog/Digital Hybrid Synth · Analog monosynth + 4-part digital synth + drum machine + vocoder, 37 keys$220–$330 usedBest for: Players who want the widest creative range in one compact synth
The Roland JD-Xi packs an analog monosynth section, four-part digital synthesizer, 808/909-style drum machine, and a vocoder into one keyboard smaller than a laptop. It is an extraordinary creative tool for producers and performers who need everything available immediately. The analog section has genuine Roland vintage character.
#4
Novation Bass Station II
Analog Monosynth · 2 VCOs, dedicated sub oscillator, filter overdrive, arpeggiator$280–$380 usedBest for: Producers focused on bass sounds and lead synth lines
The Bass Station II has a dedicated sub oscillator designed specifically for bass sounds — the low-end weight is exceptional for a synth at this price. The filter overdrive creates a unique grit that is hard to replicate in software. Bass Station IIs are used on major electronic music productions and sound enormous through studio monitors.
#5
Behringer Model D
Analog Monosynth · Moog Minimoog clone, 3 VCOs, 24 dB Moog ladder filter$180–$270 usedBest for: Budget buyers who want classic Moog-style synthesis
The Behringer Model D is a faithful recreation of the Moog Minimoog synthesizer that costs a fraction of either a vintage Minimoog or a modern Moog reissue. The 24 dB ladder filter sounds correct. Three oscillators produce the fat unison bass sounds that defined early synthesizer music.
What to check used: No built-in keyboard in most versions — connect a MIDI controller or use the CV inputs. The desktop module version is what most buyers encounter.
#6
Arturia MiniBrute 2
Analog Monosynth · 2 VCOs, Brute Factor saturation, extensive modulation matrix, patchbay$320–$450 usedBest for: Players ready to explore modular-adjacent synthesis
The MiniBrute 2 is more complex than the MicroBrute — it adds a second oscillator, an expanded modulation matrix, and a CV/Gate patchbay with 16 patch points. This makes it a bridge between a conventional synth and a modular system. The Brute Factor saturation knob adds controlled harmonic distortion unavailable on competitors.
#7
Moog Werkstatt-01
Analog Monosynth Kit · Patchable Moog circuit, single VCO, 4-pole Moog filter, CV outputs$160–$240 usedBest for: Curious players who want to understand synthesis from the circuit level
The Moog Werkstatt-01 is a patchable semi-modular synthesizer built on authentic Moog circuitry. It comes semi-assembled and teaches synthesis concepts hands-on. The Moog 4-pole filter is the real thing at a price point that makes Moog accessible. CV outputs connect to any modular synthesizer in your future.