Moog Subsequent 37 Analog Synthesizer Review Powerful Sound Design with Enhanced Features

Description

Enhanced Design and Build Quality

I couldn’t help but notice how solidly built the Subsequent 37 feels right out of the box. The metal body combined with wooden side panels gives a premium touch to the overall aesthetic. This isn’t some lightweight, flimsy gear; it’s a hefty 22-pound beast that screams durability. The 37 semi-weighted keys feel smooth and responsive, offering just the right amount of resistance for expressive play. With velocity and aftertouch, the keys respond beautifully whether you’re going for soft, subtle tones or aggressive, dynamic leads. The compact size, measuring 14.76″ deep, 26.77″ wide, and 6.69″ high, makes it surprisingly manageable for a studio setup or even live performances.

Key Benefits

• 37 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch for expressive play.
• Solid metal and wood build ensures durability and premium feel.
• Compact yet sturdy design suitable for studio and live performances.

Sound Design: A Playground for Creativity

This synthesizer is an absolute playground for sound enthusiasts. Its 40 knobs and 74 switches put an incredible range of analog sound design tools at your fingertips. I spent hours tweaking the dual oscillators, sub-oscillator, and analog noise generator, layering textures that ranged from warm pads to screaming leads. The redesigned Ladder filter makes the low end richer, while the Multidrive circuit adds a gritty, growling quality when pushed. What really stood out was the two-note paraphony, allowing me to play two different notes simultaneously, which added a whole new layer of depth to my compositions.

The onboard sequencer and modulation buses make creating complex patterns a breeze. The programmable LFOs opened up endless possibilities for tweaking and modulating sounds. Whether you’re into ambient soundscapes or punchy EDM tracks, this analog beast delivers.

Limitations

• The learning curve can be steep for beginners unfamiliar with analog synthesizers.
• Lacks a color screen, which could make navigation slightly challenging for some.
• No built-in speakers, so external monitors or headphones are a must.

MIDI and Connectivity Options

Connecting this instrument to my setup was seamless. The MIDI In/Out/USB and CV/Gate Ins make it incredibly versatile for integration with other gear. I particularly loved the 1/4″ TRS headphone jack, which pairs beautifully with the high-powered headphone amp. Even demanding headphones were driven effortlessly. The Editor/Librarian software, compatible with both Windows and macOS, was a lifesaver for organizing and editing presets. It even works as a DAW plugin!

For anyone looking for flexibility in their setup, this synthesizer’s connectivity options are a dream. It feels like every possible audio in/out and MIDI setup scenario has been accounted for.

Positive Features

• Exceptional MIDI and USB connectivity.
• Powerful headphone amp drives even high-impedance headphones.
• Editor/Librarian software simplifies sound management.

Areas for Improvement

• No built-in speakers, limiting standalone use.
• The software editor could be more intuitive for beginners.

Competing Brands

I’ve used a fair share of analog synthesizers, including the Korg Minilogue and the Roland System-1. While these models are great in their own right, the Subsequent 37 stands out with its paraphonic capabilities and extensive analog sound design tools. The Korg Minilogue shines with its polyphony, but its build quality doesn’t feel as robust. On the other hand, Roland’s System-1 excels in digital flexibility, but it lacks the analog warmth that this synthesizer delivers effortlessly.

Where the Subsequent 37 truly outshines its competitors is in its build quality and sound richness. Its Multidrive circuit and Ladder filter make it perfect for those wanting a mix of clean tones and gritty saturation. However, if portability is a priority, the Korg Minilogue wins with its lighter weight.

Cost-Effectiveness

This synthesizer is certainly an investment, but the range of features and build quality justify the price tag. Unlike cheaper alternatives, you’re not just paying for the name; you’re investing in a powerful analog sound engine, professional-grade controls, and versatile connectivity. If you’re serious about sound design or live performances, this synthesizer offers tremendous value for its features.

For those debating whether to splurge, I’d say this is for the dedicated musician or producer who’ll actually put all its features to use. If you’re just starting out, it may be worth considering simpler options before diving into this powerhouse. For me, though, it has been worth every penny.

Additional information