PIANOTEQ HOHNER PIANET N

WHAT Software physical model of the popular electromechanical piano from the mid-’60s that utilized plucked reeds. Additions include a 7-octave range and sustain pedal. Part of Pianoteq’s Hohner Collection instrument pack. Requires Pianoteq version 5.4. WHY You want to add the keyboard sound of “I Am the Walrus” to your stage or studio rig.
$59 | pianoteq.com

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ROLI SEABOARD RISE

WHAT A 25-note polyphonic MIDI controller that tracks finger gestures in three dimensions—x, y, and z—with onboard controls for scaling each. Includes Equator software synthesizer, wireless MIDI connectivity over Bluetooth, a 1/4" continuous pedal input, and two USB ports. WHY The first MIDI controller of its kind priced under a grand.
$799 | roli.com

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ROLAND BOUTIQUE

WHAT The JU-06, JX-03, and JP-06 are limited-edition, analog-modeled synth modules that re-create the sounds of the Juno-106, JX-3P, and Jupiter 3, respectively. Includes dual ribbon controllers, step sequencer, MIDI I/O, built-in speakers, and battery or USB power. WHY Classic sounds and reasonably priced for the desktop or in the K-25m keyboard controller (shown here).
$299 to $399 | rolandus.com

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NOVATION CIRCUIT

WHAT A groove box that combines a 4-part drum machine, two Nova synths (each with 6-note polyphony), and a 4x8 velocity-sensitive grid. Includes effects, a built-in speaker, USB and MIDI I/O, with the option of running on batteries or USB bus power. WHY Get your groove on anywhere with this portable powerhouse.
$329 | us.novationmusic.com

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MOOG MUSIC MOTHER-32

WHAT Semi-modular analog synth module featuring a VCO, LFO, 32 patch points, a voltage-controlled 32-step sequencer, MIDI In with CV converter, audio input, resonant high-and lowpass ladder filter, and voltage-controlled mixers. Use on the desktop or in a Eurorack case. WHY Classic Moog sounds in a patchable yet preconfigured synth voice.
$599 | moogmusic.com