We have a few of the synths that made the list listed below for you to check out. Watch the full video to see all the picks.
Pittsburgh Modular Taiga Desktop Paraphonic Synthesizer
Taiga is an analog semi-modular, paraphonic synthesizer with its MIDI-to-CV converter, tap tempo clock, 32-step sequencer/arpeggiator, BBD delay, and an abundance of patch points, it offers endless possibilities to satisfy your craving for patching.
Its saw-wave oscillator core passes through up to four additive wave shapers before the output, resulting in rich, unique harmonics, helped by the 2-pole, 12-dB state-variable filter, whose frequency knob produces something interesting at every turn.
Roland S-1 Tweak Synthesizer
This pocket-sized polyphonic synthesizer draws inspiration from the iconic SH-101, placing four-voice polyphony and built-in sequencing in a compact, user-friendly interface.
With dedicated knobs for oscillator, envelope, filter, and LFO controls, the S-1 Tweak is perfect for those who want the essence of the revered SH-101 in a portable and straightforward format.
Expressive E Osmose
Expressive E’s Osmose keyboard is perhaps the most exciting synth of its kind to date. Made by the same company that produced the innovative Touche expressive controllers, this powerful MPE synthesizer unlocks infinite possibilities of tonal exploration by using an intuitive set of gestures that allow players to manipulate all of their note bends and modulation organically.
Sonicware Liven Texture Lab
Sonicware expands its budget-friendly Liven series with their take on granular synthesis with the Texture Lab, a sample-based granular synth designed for manipulating and transforming sounds into grains which can be used to create unconventional patches and soundscapes. There’s a handful of effects on-board, it can record samples and process live audio.
UDO Audio Super Gemini
Building off the success of the Super 6, UDO Audio's Super Gemini is a 20-voice polyphonic, bi-timbral analog-hybrid synth. Its digital oscillators offer wave-morphing, cross and ring modulation, bi-directional sync, and more—all fed through an analog signal path inspired by vintage instruments. The keyboard features 61 semi-weighted keys with polyphonic aftertouch, and the Super Gemini also features a custom-engineered ribbon sensor.
These are just a few of the incredible synths that made the list for the best synthesizers of 2023. Watch the video above for the full list to see which ones made the cut.