Buyer's guide: Polysynths
At Signal Sounds, we like to promote harmonious living, and we think beautiful things happen when you play more than one note at a time on your synthesiser. A piano-style keyboard layout naturally invites you to explore chords and harmony, and when that’s attached to an instrument with the sound design potential of a synthesiser, there’s a world of new and exciting musical territory to be explored.
But where do you start with polysynths when there are so many to choose from? How do you decide which features are important? What’s the best polysynth to buy in 2025? Fear not, intrepid synth explorer: we’ve made a guide to help you through. First, we’ll answer some common questions that you might have on the subject of polysynths. Then we’ll get stuck into some recommendations to suit all budgets.
What is a polysynth?
Polysynth is short for ‘polyphonic synthesiser’ - that is, a synthesiser that can play more than one note at the same time. The first synthesisers were monophonic: they could only play one note at a time. As electronics technology advanced in the 1970s, brands such as Yamaha, Oberheim and Sequential Circuits introduced analogue synths with multiple voices. Instead of being limited to basslines and melodies, these polysynths let you play chords, opening up a whole world of lush pads, stabs and more.
What are the differences between analogue, digital and hybrid polysynths?
If a polysynth is described as ‘analogue’, it likely has an analogue signal path at the heart of the synth, with VCOs (voltage-controlled oscillators) producing simple waveforms (such as saw, square, pulse, triangle and sine) which then pass through VCFs (voltage-controlled filters) and VCAs (voltage-controlled amplifiers). It may have some digital elements for functions such as patch storage, modulation routing and MIDI compatibility, and may include digital effects of some sort at the end of the chain, but the core sound generation is in the analogue domain.
In contrast, a digital polysynth will have a digital sound generation architecture, such as wavetables, sample playback or digital FM, while a hybrid polysynth will contain a mixture - for example, some form of digital sound generator that then passes through analogue filters.
Why are polysynths more expensive than monosynths?
The simple answer is that there’s a lot more going on inside. Compared to a monosynth with an equivalent voice architecture, an 8-voice analogue polysynth will need eight times as many oscillators, filters, VCAs, envelopes and so on. They also need additional hardware under the hood to handle the voice allocation from a keyboard, and they’re usually physically larger, to accommodate all these extra components. All this contributes to the cost being higher.
What’s the difference between polyphony and paraphony?
Polyphony refers to the ability to play multiple notes simultaneously, where each voice has an independent signal path with its own filter and amplifier. Paraphony also refers to multiple notes, but these will all pass through the same filter and amplifier. So for example, a polyphonic synth can play a chord where each note has its own distinct tone, while in a paraphonic synth playing the same chord, the notes will all pass through the same filter, resulting in a more uniform sonic texture.
Paraphonic synths were more common in the past, as a way to obtain pseudo-polyphony without needing to duplicate every element of a voice. Nowadays, advances in component tech have made fully polyphonic synths much more affordable, so paraphonic synthesisers are rare.
The best vintage-style flagship polysynths
If you’re looking to faithfully recreate some of the classic sounds of the 70s and 80s with all the bells and whistles, these are the ones for you.
Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave
It’s remarkable how meticulously Bob Coover of Groove Synthesis recreated the PPG Wave, which originally dates from 1978, but when you play one for the first time, it’s immediately clear why he went to so much trouble. This synth really is in a league of its own in terms of classic wavetable sounds. The 20 voices of analogue circuitry to accompany the digital oscillators, 4-part multi-timbrality (as well as sampling!) make it an absolute powerhouse that has an incredibly wide palette of sounds.
Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave Advanced Wavetable Synthesizer (Keyboard)
£4843.00
MEET THE 3RD WAVE The 3rd Wave is a powerhouse wavetable synth with 24-voice polyphony and 4-part multi-timbral capability that’s like having four independent synthesizers...… read more
Oberheim OB-X8
Based on the classic Oberheim OB-XA, originally released in 1980, and carrying all the filter revisions of each version with it, the OB-X8 is the classic Oberheim sound reborn. If you want something really raw and analogue, with nothing else to get in the way; then this should be right at the top of the list.
Oberheim OB-X8 Polyphonic Analogue Synthesiser (Keyboard)
£3919.99
NEW functionality now available with OB-X8 OS v2.0 featuring: Instant binaural mode pans individual voices hard left and right for true stereo operation Simultaneously selectable...… read more
Sequential Prophet 5/10
The Prophet 5 was a major milestone in synth design when it was unveiled in 1978, being the first polysynth with patch memory to let you save your favourite sounds. It went on to become one of the most iconic synths of all time, and can be heard on countless hit records in the 1980s. This modern recreation offers the filter types from all three revisions of this legendary synth and is available in 10-voice form as well as the original classic 5-voice architecture.
Sequential Prophet 5 Analogue Synthesiser (Keyboard)
£2979.99
The Return of a Legend The new Prophet-5 is Dave Smith’s timely return to the analog poly synth that changed the world. It’s “the best...… read more
The best modern flagship polysynths
If you want something that takes its cues from the synth history books, but isn’t afraid to deliver something new and unique to push the synth world forward; then look no further than these.
Arturia PolyBrute 12
This analogue monster has a lot going for it. Firstly, the ‘FullTouch’ keybed is the most expressive we’ve played on an analogue synth full stop, and takes the capabilities of an already excellent sound engine even further. The modulation matrix is an incredibly simple and intuitive design which makes complex patch creation really straightforward, and the inbuilt effects are stellar. It makes the whole thing feel like a truly complete instrument.
Arturia PolyBrute 12 Polyphonic Analogue Synthesiser
£2864.99
We say... One of the most hotly anticipated synths of 2024 is finally here. This is a real monster of an instrument, building on the...… read more
UDO Audio Super Gemini
We’ve loved UDO’s Super 6 for a long time (you’ll see it mentioned later on!) but two is better than one; and with the Super Gemini you get two layers of that engine to craft beautiful bi-timbral sounds on. The unique thing here is the binaural oscillators taken from the Super 6. The easiest way to describe how they sound is like when you double-track an instrument to get a really wide and gorgeous sound that still feels like one instrument.
UDO Audio Super Gemini Bi-Timbral Polyphonic Hybrid Synth - Keyboard
£3699.99
Taking your sound to a whole new level The Super Gemini is a 20-voice polyphonic, bi-timbral analog-hybrid powerhouse. Employing an unprecedented dual-layer design, the Super...… read more
Waldorf Quantum Mk2
This analogue/digital hybrid has a strong claim to be the most powerful synth on the market, and its high-profile fans include Hans Zimmer and Richard Devine. With a sound-generating core that boasts wavetables, sample playback, a granular engine, a resonator, analogue and digital filters and much more, you’ll never run out of things to experiment with, plus with polyphonic aftertouch you can get seriously expressive.
Waldorf Quantum MK2 Analog & Digital Hybrid Synth
£3999.99
The legendary synthesizer technology of the Waldorf Quantum – now with new features. As with the Iridium keyboard, the Quantum MK2 now also features a...… read more
The best vintage-flavoured workhorse polysynths
If you’re after something that packs a powerful punch of vintage flavour but is more friendly on space, weight and cash, these synths will do the trick.
Sequential OB-6
This is our favourite of the Sequential 6-voice synth lineup (which also includes the Prophet-6 and Trigon-6). A collaboration between Dave Smith and Tom Oberheim, the OB-6 is a real studio and live staple for a reason: it sounds phenomenal and is really well built. The Oberheim filter is smooth and lush, and it’s full of classic vintage character and vibe.
Sequential OB-6 Analogue Synthesiser (Keyboard)
£2786.99
Two Legends. One Instrument The OB-6® is a once-in-a-lifetime collaboration between the two most influential designers in poly synth history, Dave Smith and Tom Oberheim....… read more
UDO Super 6 ST49
This could live in the vintage or modern section because it really does both incredibly well. It takes clear inspiration from classic Roland Jupiters and Junos, with its slider-heavy layout and no-screen workflow, and programming the Super 6 is the most ‘vintage synth’ experience you can get from a modern polysynth, in our opinion. Its binaural sound engine delivers rich and wide sounds that are hard to beat in any price point. We like it so much that two of us here at Signal Sounds have bought one of our own (and we play with a lot of synths!)
UDO Audio Super 6 ST49 Polyphonic Aftertouch Hybrid Analogue Synth (Blue)
£2555.99
We say... The modern classic Super 6 synth just got a whole lot more expressive. The ST49 version boasts a slick new keybed with polyphonic...… read more
Oberheim TEO-5
A fantastic option for those who are a little more cost/size-conscious. Designed by synth legend Tom Oberheim, the TEO-5 is a five-voice compact synth that boasts a deceptively powerful sound engine. The classic Oberheim filter brings a wonderful smoothness and warmth. You’ll get pads and brass galore from this wee beast!
Oberheim TEO-5 Polyphonic Analogue Synthesiser Keyboard
£1333.99
We say... Your chance to own a genuine Oberheim at a previously unheard-of price point! A brilliant compact polysynth that combines classic analogue sounds, including...… read more
The best modern workhorse polysynths
If you’re looking for a ‘do anything’ polysynth which can handle classic and modern sounds, is great for playing live, and doesn’t come with the premium price tag of some of the offerings above, we’ve got you covered.
Melbourne Instruments Delia
The big talking point on the Delia is Melbourne Instruments’ unique motorised knob technology, which is an absolute game-changer. It’s incredibly satisfying to see how every parameter is actually set everytime you switch sounds. And it nails things on the sounds front too, with a wide palette that does modern and nostalgic equally well.
Melbourne Instruments Delia Motorised Morphing Polyphonic Synthesiser
£2295.00
We say... Arguably the coolest-looking polysynth around, the Delia boasts motorised knobs and a Kraftwerk-esque red and black colour scheme. None of that would matter,...… read more
Sequential Prophet Rev2
After the success of the Prophet 08, the modern reinvention of the classic Prophet 5 synth, came the Rev2, which adds internal effects and the option for up to 16 voices. You’ll see these everywhere at gigs for great reason. It’s a well-built, lightweight synth with a fantastic sound and would be our first recommendation for a gigging polysynth. Having 61 keys really makes the difference!
Sequential Prophet Rev2 8 Voice Keyboard Synth
£1699.99
Prophet Rev2 8 Voice VersionA Modern Classic Reinvented The Prophet Rev2 is Dave Smith’s reimagining of his Prophet ’08 poly synth — a modern classic...… read more
Yamaha MODX7+
The MODX7+ (and its slightly smaller sibling, the MODX6+) is a powerful workstation with two sound engines: sample-based AWM2, and the frequency modulation-based FM-X, which brings classic DX7-style synthesis right into the 21st century. With 256 (!) voices of polyphony, a ‘Super Knob’ that can control 128 parameters, a 16-track sequencer and much, much more, everything about this synth is massive (except the weight - this thing is great for gigging!)
Yamaha MODX7+ 76-Key Synthesiser
£1299.99
Manufacturer's description With its 76 keys, the MODX7+ is a compact and still portable Music Synthesizer specially designed for keyboardists who want to realise multi-layered...… read more
The best affordable polysynths
For those starting out on their synth journey, or who just want a lot of bang for their buck, here are our top picks that don’t break the bank.
Arturia MiniFreak
We often end up recommending the MiniFreak when talking to someone who’s new to synths. There are a few reasons: firstly it’s got an incredibly wide palette of sounds, offering you different styles of synthesis on the same unit (Virtual Analog, FM, Speech, Granular, Vocoder, Karplus Strong, Wavetable to name just a few!) so there’s lots to explore. It’s really well built and the design is intuitive and straightforward. It’s got an ingenious modulation matrix, which makes advanced patching really easy; and it’s got some cracking Arturia effects in it, so you don’t need to buy pedals to make it sound better. It’s really hard to fault at this price point.
Arturia MiniFreak Polyphonic Synth & Sequencer
£448.99
Hybrid polysynth power MiniFreak’s twin digital sound engines feature over 20 modes, and can be used individually, stacked, or to process each other’s output for...… read more
ASM Hydrasynth
Whether you’re looking at the full version, desktop, Explorer or Deluxe model; at every price point the Hydrasynth delivers. It has an incredibly sweet-sounding wavetable engine with one of the best user interfaces for sound design in this price range. Having five LFOs and five envelopes on any other synth might feel overwhelming but the screen is so well implemented that it never feels challenging to dial things in! This one is for the folks keen on making their own sounds.
ASM HydraSynth Wavetable Synth (Keyboard)
£981.99
The HYDRASYNTH keyboard is both a sound designers dream synth as well as a performing musicians ideal. The sound engine is designed for maximum flexibility....… read more
Vongon Replay
Something a little different that’s sure to turn heads! Vongon’s Replay is one of the most striking synths to come our way in recent years, with beautifully clacky Cherry MX keys in lieu of a traditional keyboard. It’s not just something that will look on your Instagram feed next to your succulents and Chase Bliss pedals, though - under the hood is a great-sounding 6-voice Juno-inspired virtual analogue synth engine.
Vongon Replay Polyphonic Synth (Black)
£899.00
We say... Vongon's gorgeous Replay synth is now available in black! Manufacturer's description REPLAY is a polyphonic synthesizer with multi-mode arpeggiator inspired by the Roland...… read more
Desktop polysynths
For those who have a keyboard (or sequencer) already, there are plenty of options for desktop modules. Many of the synths mentioned above have a desktop equivalent, but there are a few that only exist in desktop form.
Black Corporation Deckard’s Dream MkII
The closest thing to a Yamaha CS-80 currently on the market, Black Corporation have taken the gargantuan 1980s polysynth made famous by Vangelis on the Blade Runner soundtrack and shrunk it into a sleek 8-voice desktop unit. It’s not cheap, by any means, but it’s one of the lushest analogue synths you’re likely to hear and it’ll still set you back considerably less than the unit that inspired it.
Black Corporation Deckard's Dream MKII Polyphonic Analog Synth
£4332.00
DECKARD’S DREAM MK2 DECKARD’S DREAM, or DDRM, features eight voices, each with two identical layered parts consisting of a 100% analog voltage controlled oscillator made...… read more
Melbourne Instruments Nina
A flagship all-analogue dream synth with motorised knobs for instant patch recall. Its sound matches its engineering in terms of beauty and it's capable of truly lush vintage tones. There’s new firmware for it too that gives it its own 4-track sequencer with Elektron-esque parameter locks, so it’s more than just a big poly!
Melbourne Instruments Nina Analogue Desktop Synth w/ Motorised Controls
£3650.00
Manufacturer's description NINA is a 12-voice analog polyphonic and multi-timbral synthesiser featuring revolutionary motorised controls and patch recall. It finally enables the real-time control surface...… read more
GS Music E7 & Bree6
The E7 was an incredible debut for GS Music: a lush 7-voice polysynth with a really clean user interface. It’s fun to program and sounds amazing. An underrated gem from the Argentine synth boffins! The Bree6 is its little sibling. It slims down the hands-on controls and shaves the voice count by one, with just a single oscillator per voice, but it’s every bit as nice sounding and it’s incredible value. If you’re looking to play live and need a module for poly duties this would be our number one pick.
GS Music e7 Polyphonic Analog Synthesiser (Black/Blue)
£1799.00
We say... One of the finest analogue synths we've played on in the last few years, the e7 is seriously underrated and just sounds fantastic....… read more
GS Music Bree6 Polyphonic Desktop Analog Synth (Blue)
£989.00
We say... We loved the E7 synth from GS Music, and they've done it again with the Bree6, this time at a slightly lower price...… read more
Want to know more?
If you want to see what else is out there, head over to the Synthesisers section. As always, get in touch with us here if you need more information or want to arrange a showroom visit to try some of these in person.
