2018 is the year of hybrid sound synthesis. Half of the synthesizers in the ranking is a delicious blend of analog + digital synthesis in different proportions. Sometimes even digital + digital, which is also interesting. Another half is an attempt to recreate the behavior of cult synthesizers of past years. This is our only chart for 3 years in which there are two MOOG synthesizers at once! This is an interesting and versatile chart, which you should familiarize yourself with and express your opinion, because otherwise you definitely risk missing something important!

Already world famous for its analog synthesizers company Arturia has recently launched a new instument in continuation of its Brute line - DrumBrute Impact. This compact drum machine is smaller than its big brother Drumbrute but it has an interesting option - built-in FM synthesizer. The creators promise that this synth will change the way you create rhythms forever.

Two DIY synths – a new Arduino-based unit and a Gilbert module inspired by Roland sound, Malekko Varigate 4+ gets updated introducing some CV capabilities, a Theremin-style Altura launched by Zeppelin, a Kickstarter project by Chroma Coda which is represented with a MIDI floor controller, and the Acid Simona VCF which is a limited edition of Erica Synths Black Polivoks VCF.

Last year Radikal Technologies was presented at Superbooth16 with two modules: dual multimode filter RT-451 and swarm oscillator RT-311. This year they announced EFFEXX RT1701 Multi FX Processor.

An American engineer, founder of the biggest synth brand name, electronic music pioneer, inventor of an iconic analog instrument – probably the most recognizable one not only among musicians and music technicians but also among those who hardly have anything in common with music at all. We talk about Moog and its creator – Robert Moog who entered Pop Culture Hall of Fame.