Synths are electronic instruments designed for creating and shaping sound, from classic analogue-style tones to modern digital textures. Used for basslines, leads, pads and experimental sound design, they play a central role in many styles of music. If you enjoy hands-on creativity and exploring new sonic ideas, synths offer a powerful and expressive way to make music.
The Important stuff
2023. Analog — Analogue is sound generation based on physical electronic circuits such as oscillators, filters, and amplifiers rather than digital processing. It produces continuously variable signals with natural drift, saturation, and harmonic character, giving sounds a distinctive warmth and movement. Analogue instruments are valued for their hands-on control, immediacy, and expressive response in both studio and live performance environments.. Desktop — Desktop refers to instruments designed for tabletop or studio use rather than keyboard-based performance. Desktop units are compact, self-contained devices controlled via knobs, buttons, sequencers, or external controllers, making them ideal for studio workflows and modular setups.. Modal — Modal is a method of sound generation based on modelling the physical resonances of objects rather than traditional oscillators or samples. It is used to create harmonically rich, expressive sounds that respond naturally to changes in pitch, dynamics, and modulation. For example, modal synthesis can be used to produce bell-like tones, metallic textures, or acoustic-inspired sounds that feel organic while remaining fully controllable in an electronic instrument.
. Used — Synth for Sale has over 1000 used synths and gear like that for sale. We bring these products to you via our trusted partners, retailers and direct with independent sellers in the UK. .