Buyer's guide: Monosynths
In a world of endless software synth options and sprawling, cable-strewn modular setups, there’s something very satisfying about the immediacy of a dedicated hardware monosynth. Whether it’s hefty basslines, searing leads or rhythmic sequences, there’s always room for something that does the job with minimum fuss and maximum impact.
Some of the most beloved synths of all time sit in this category - think the Moog Minimoog, Roland SH-101, Korg MS-20 and ARP Odyssey - and in 2026, there are lots of great options to choose from. From basic starter keyboards to vintage recreations to experimental sound-design-focused semi-modulars, there’s a monosynth to suit everyone.
In this buyer’s guide, we’ll break down the best monosynths to buy in 2026 and explain what makes them great. But first, let's tackle a couple of common monosynth questions.
What is a monosynth?
‘Monosynth’ is a contraction of ‘monophonic synthesiser’ - which, in the simplest terms, means a synthesiser that can play one note at a time. So you can’t play chords on a monosynth, but they are a great option for bass or lead duties. The first analogue synths produced commercially were monophonic, and many of the classics from this era are still in huge demand.
Why pick a monosynth over a polysynth?
Aside from the fact that monosynths are often cheaper than a comparable polysynth (due to having an inherently simpler voice architecture and thus fewer components), they tend to be geared towards specific musical applications in a way that polysynths often aren’t. For example, if you’re looking for something to make killer basslines, a monosynth designed specifically for bass duties will have a layout and feature set tailored to that purpose, compared to a polysynth that covers a lot of bases.
Monosynths often feature built-in sequencers, which can be very powerful, letting you record and program patterns of not just notes, but also other parameters of the synth. These sequencers can often add complexity with ratchets (repeating notes on a particular step) and slides (bending a note between two step values). This can turn them into something much more interesting than a simple synth that’s played by hand.
Some of the monosynths we’ll discuss below are semi-modular. They’re not as complex as a full-blown modular synth, which needs to be patched before it will do anything - a semi-modular will generally work just fine without any patch cables required - but they offer patch points that let you explore more advanced signal routing and integrate with other modular gear. You don’t tend to find this kind of thing on a polysynth.
The best keyboard monosynths
Arturia MiniBrute 2
The second incarnation of the pioneering MiniBrute offers richers sound design possibilities than its more compact sibling, the MicroBrute (see below), with a second oscillator and lots more patch points. It also boasts full-size keys and a more powerful sequencer/arpeggiator.
Arturia MiniBrute 2 Semi-Modular Synth (Noir Edition)
£435.00
Arturia’s revolutionary analog monosynth reborn for the modular age; the MiniBrute 2 Noir Edition is a thrilling, adaptable synthesizer that can’t wait to meet your...… read more
Shop nowSequential Pro 3
If you’re looking for deep sound design capabilities then the Pro 3 has to be a contender. It has a wealth of modulation options (four loopable envelope generators and three LFOs with a 32-slot modulation matrix), an incredibly powerful sequencer and four CV ins and four CV outs for integrating with other gear.
Sequential Pro 3 SE Special Edition Synthesiser Keyboard
£2,729.00
We say... A modern classic! All the best aspects of Sequential's legendary heritage in a compact, highly playable package. Manufacturer's description A Three-Generation Legacy The...… read more
Shop nowThe best desktop & semi-modular monosynths
Instruo Seashell
The sound of a much bigger Instruo modular system in a wonderfully small form factor. This little thing sounds amazing and boasts all manner of clever features like a desktop app editor for saving presets and expanded modulation, audio over USB and a built-in diffusion/reverb effect to give you some space on those lead lines.
Instruo Seashell Analogue Hybrid Desktop Semi-Modular Synthesiser
£649.00
What we say about the Instruo Seashell... Instruo's first foray into semi-modular desktop synth territory is as smart as you'd expect from one of Eurorack's...… read more
Shop nowFuture Sound Systems Cric
This matrix-patchable monster is one of the most exciting synths of recent years. Drawing on all of Future Sound Systems’ analogue expertise, it’s based around a pin matrix (so no unruly patch cables) and sounds absolutely sublime. If you only buy one standalone analogue synth in your life, make it this one.
Future Sound Systems Cric Analogue Matrix-Patchable Synthesiser
£2,499.00
We say... Phwoar! Future Sound Systems have produced an absolutely mouthwatering flagship synth here. Drawing on their wealth of expertise in analogue circuit design, Cric...… read more
Shop nowMajella Implexus
A lovely-looking desktop box that fuses some of the best aspects of modular ‘complex oscillators’ - like wavefolding and deep frequency modulation - with classic subtractive synthesis and a lovely built-in delay effect. Now also available in black!
Majella Audio Implexus Desktop Analogue Synthesiser (Silver)
£1,390.00
We say... A desktop synth that sounds as good as it looks, combining elements of West Coast and East Coast synth design philosophy. Manufacturer's description...… read more
Shop nowDoepfer Dark Energy III
A standalone synth from the originators of the Eurorack format, the Dark Energy is a real modern classic. Fully analogue aside from the USB/MIDI interface, it’s a great way to explore synthesis without sacrificing too much valuable studio space.
Doepfer Dark Energy III Analogue Desktop Synth
£419.00
Manufacturer's description Dark Energy III is a monophonic stand-alone synthesizer with USB and MIDI interface. It is the follower of the successful Dark Energy I...… read more
Shop nowErica Synths Bassline DB-01
If you want to make acid, you should take a hard look at the Bassline DB-01. This has tonnes of grit and aggression and a sequencer capable of the ties and glides that made the Roland TB-303 so popular. Analogue acid in a box - what’s not to love?
Erica Synths Bassline DB-01 Desktop Analogue Bass Synth
£475.00
From basslines and rave sounds to massive drones and drums - the Erica Synths Bassline DB-01 synthesizer lets you explore new territories of sound and...… read more
Shop nowMake Noise 0-Coast
Taking flavours from both East and West coast synthesis, the 0-Coast delivers something unique. Its patchable nature can lead to all sorts of new sonic territories, and I’ve always really loved the sounds you can make with it. Warning - it can also serve as a gateway drug for a full-blown modular synth addiction!
Make Noise 0-Coast Desktop Synthesizer
£479.00
The Make Noise 0-COAST desktop synthesiser is a single voice semi-modular synth. Its name reflects the fact that it utilises techniques from both the Moog...… read more
Shop nowThe best vintage-style monosynths
Korg miniKORG 700FS
A classic reborn with some modern improvements. The 700FS delivers classic analogue tones in a really beautiful package. It now also comes with aftertouch as well as USB MIDI and CV/Gate inputs for modern music-making. If you want the classic Korg sound then look no further!
Korg MiniKorg 700FS Analogue Synthesizer
£1,799.00
Back To The Future: a limited edition authentic revival of the miniKORG 700. The miniKORG 700 was KORG’s first mass-produced monophonic synthesizer released in 1973...… read more
Shop nowKorg MS-20 Mini
Many famous patches can be attributed to the original MS-20. It has a notable bite and grit that really sings when you lean into that aspect. Some classic examples include Da Funk by Daft Punk and Sexy Boy by Air. I have a real soft spot for it as it was the first synth I ever bought with a patchbay.
Korg MS-20 Mini Semi-Modular Analogue Synth
£499.00
The MS-20 mini painstakingly replicates the original MS-20. A development team led by the original engineers themselves worked to recreate the original circuitry, and when...… read more
Shop nowAJH Synth MiniMod Keys
AJH Synth are renowned for making the nicest-sounding Minimoog-style modules in Eurorack, and this instrument, which pulls all the key modules into an enclosure with a keyboard, lets you recreate the classic instrument with all the possibilities that the extended patching can offer. If you want a more expansive and patchable take on the classic Minimoog sound, this is the one for you.
AJH Synth MiniMod Keys Modular Analogue Synth (Keyboard)
£2,795.00
The timeless Model D, reinvented in Eurorack The AJHSynth MiniMod Keyz synth is an exciting new modular monosynth featuring the much acclaimed MiniMod modules, which...… read more
Shop nowThe best budget monosynths
Arturia MicroBrute
A gritty, fun monosynth to get you started. It sounds much bigger than its price point suggests and doesn’t take up too much studio real estate either. Not only that, but there’s a set of jacks which serve as a gentle introduction to the concept of modular patching and allow you to integrate the synth further with other gear that talks CV.
Arturia MicroBrute Analogue Synth (UFO Edition)
£299.00
Manufacturer's description MicroBrute UFO is a tribute to the analog renaissance Arturia helped ignite. 100% analog signal path, a fat Steiner-Parker multimode filter, and the...… read more
Shop nowKorg Monologue
The Monologue is a fun modern monosynth and a great affordable option. I love its sequencer, which has the ability to record knob movements while the sequencer is running - it makes for more interesting and dynamic sequences.
Korg Monologue Desktop Analogue Synth (Silver)
£255.00
Next-generation monophonic analog synthesizer in a vivid five-color lineup. Fully programmable, analog synthesis for all players; monologue is the next-generation monophonic synthesizer that shares the...… read more
Shop nowKorg Volca Bass/NuBass
The Volca units have always been a prime choice for folks on a budget, and the Bass and NuBass are no exception. The original Volca Bass focuses on a simple feature set with a great sound, and it’s capable of entering acid territory. The NuBass takes the same concept but adds a vacuum tube for extra analogue sauce.
Korg Volca Bass Desktop Analogue Bass Synth
£145.00
The Volca Bass is a powerful analog bassline groove box that has what you need for a wide range of bass lines Key Features: Powerful...… read more
Shop nowKorg Volca Nubass Desktop Analogue Bass Synth
£119.00
Korg Volca Nubass Vacuum Tube Synthesizer A powerful bass synth with a sound source based around a vacuum tube oscillator. The acid bass machine with...… read more
Shop nowHopefully these recommendations haven’t been too one-note (badum-tish!) and have helped to outline the different flavours and options available in the monosynth world. Get in touch if you need more information or would like to arrange a showroom visit to try any of these in person.
