Host Ziv Eliraz – in his latest loopop video – shares an in-depth review of the new Moog Messenger, a compact monophonic synth introduced at Superbooth 2025.
The Moog Messenger is a compact monophonic analog synthesizer that they say is “designed to deliver the iconic Moog sound to a new generation of musicians”.
In his review, Eliraz offers a comprehensive overview of the Moog Messenger and its capabilities, a discussion of how it builds on previous Moog synths, the keyboard’s performance capabilities, and his take on its pros and cons. Along the way, he shares lots of audio demos.
Check out the review and share your thoughts in the comments!
Topics covered:
At Superbooth 2025, Novation has announced a wave of new instruments and creative controllers.
Included is the Launch Control XL 3 MIDI control surface, two new white Launchkey MK4 MIDI keyboard controllers in the popular 37-mini key and 49 key versions, and a limited-edition Bass Station II designed in collaboration with British graphic designer Ian ‘Swifty’ Swift.
Launch Control XL 3: Launch Control XL 3 builds on Novation’s popular series of DAW controllers, bringing hands-on performance, production, and mixing workflows to Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, Cubase, and more.
Its eight faders, 24 endless encoders, and 16 programmable buttons are now paired with dedicated transport controls, and a new OLED display showing vital parameter information. Now with 5-pin MIDI In, Out, Out2/Thru, alongside support for Custom Modes via Novation Components, Launch Control XL 3 is also capable of serving as a central hub for complex hybrid or hardware-based setups.
Launchkey MK4 White:
The fourth generation of Launchkey MK4 is now available in a new white-and-grey finish, in both 49-key and 37-minikey formats. It features all the latest MK4 updates, improved keybeds, OLED displays, and deeper DAW integration.
Like the rest of the range, Launchkey MK4 White includes a powerful software bundle with instruments and effects from Klevgrand, GForce, Orchestral Tools, Native Instruments, Ableton Live Lite — and now, Cubase LE. Paired with our Cubase integration, it’s a complete MIDI composition setup out of the box.
Bass Station II Swifty Edition:
The Bass Station II Swifty Edition is a limited-edition collaboration between Novation and Ian “Swifty” Swift, the British graphic designer behind the iconic visuals of labels like Mo’ Wax and Talkin’ Loud as well as The Face magazine and many others. Decked out in Swifty’s inimitable style, the paraphonic analogue synth comes pre-loaded with 60+ new patches from the likes of Dutch techno icon Legowelt, alt-pop duo Pecq, and jazz/electronic fusion artist Maria Chiara Argirò.
The newly announced Novation gear is available for pre-order from Novation and authorized retailers, and is priced below (prices in US Dollars, excluding tax)*
At Superbooth 2025, being held May 8-10 at the FEZ-Berlin, Moog Music has officially introduced the Moog Messenger, a compact monophonic analog synthesizer that they say is “designed to deliver the iconic Moog sound to a new generation of musicians”.
The Moog Messenger is a powerful synth that blends so-called ‘West Coast (Moog)’ and ‘East Coast (Buchla)’ synthesis capabilities. They call it “Moog’s most accessible analog synthesizer to date”.
The official intro video:
The Messenger builds on Moog’s traditional analog subtractive synth designs with dynamic wavefolding, dual loopable envelopes, a next-generation ladder filter with resonance bass compensation, a sequencer and arpeggiator. It can do classic ‘Moog sounds’, but also goes much further, with features like continuously variable-shape voltage-controlled oscillators and a multi-mode Moog ladder filter.
It also features a full-size keyboard with aftertouch; a front panel with the immediate, hands-on control that Moog keyboards are known for; and flexible analog and MIDI connectivity options, so you can integrate it with modular gear, MIDI hardware and your DAW.
Filling a hole in Moog’s product catalogue left by the recent discontinuation of the Subsequent 25, Messenger gives music-makers a way to access the classic Moog sound for under $1000, without losing a keyboard and venturing into semi-modular territory.
“With Messenger, we aim to honor Moog’s rich heritage while embracing the future of analog synthesis,” said Joe Richardson, Moog Music President and inMusic EVP, Chief Commercial Officer. “This instrument is crafted for musicians and producers seeking a portable, powerful monosynth that delivers the iconic Moog sound, enhanced with modern features and intuitive controls.”
Moog Messenger Preset Demo By Lisa Bella Donna:
Features:
“Timeless and Intuitive Design”: Building upon the DNA of Moog’s monosynths – including the Minimoog Model D, Voyager, Grandmother, and Subsequent 37 – Messenger combines new synthesis capabilities with a familiar format, delivering classic analog sound with modern enhancements.
Modern Wavefolding Oscillators: Two continuously variable-shape voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs) with unique hybrid wavefolders, sync, and frequency modulation (FM) capabilities allow for rich harmonic textures and dynamic overtones. A sub-oscillator with a continuously variable waveshape further adds deep, powerful low-end.
Next-Generation Ladder Filter with Resonance Bass Compensation: The classic Moog transistor ladder filter has been reimagined with a unique pole-mixing design, offering 4-pole low-pass, 2-pole low-pass, band-pass, and high-pass responses. The resonance bass compensation (RES BASS) switch preserves low-end power at high resonance settings, ensuring full-bodied sound across the spectrum. The classic response is also available.
Full-Size Keys with Expressive Control: Messenger features 32 semi-weighted full-size keys with velocity and aftertouch, providing a premium playing experience suitable for both performance and studio use. Its metal panel houses 256 presets, offering immediate access to a wide range of sounds and textures.
Hands-On, Performance-Ready Layout: The knob-per-function control design ensures immediacy and ease of use, allowing musicians to shape sounds without navigating complex menus.
Integrated Sequencer and Arpeggiator: A 64-step sequencer with probability-based generative behavior and parameter recording, along with a versatile arpeggiator offering multiple pattern modes and rhythmic programming, enable real-time composition and dynamic live performances.
Sound Design and Modulation Playground: Two loopable ADSR envelopes with velocity responsiveness and multi-trigger capabilities, along with two LFOs—one variable shape with sync and reset, and one triangle-wave tied to the modulation wheel—provide extensive modulation options for creative sound design.
Comprehensive Connectivity: Messenger integrates seamlessly into your studio with six analog control voltage (CV) patch points, an external audio input to the filter, expression and sustain pedal inputs, and MIDI In/Out via both 5-pin DIN and USB-C.
Compact, Powerful, and Accessible: Delivering the depth and sonic character of Moog’s legacy in a compact, performance-ready format, Messenger is Moog’s most accessible analog synthesizer to date.
“Messenger embodies our commitment to advancing analog synthesis while staying true to the Moog legacy and innovative spirit of Dr. Robert Moog,” said Erik Norlander, Director of Keyboard Product Development at inMusic. “Our goal was to create a synthesizer that invites immediate exploration—welcoming first-time Moog players and offering the depth and expressiveness that experienced musicians expect. With wavefolding oscillators, a dynamic shape sub-oscillator, a next-generation ladder filter, and comprehensive connectivity options, Messenger is as inspiring as it is accessible.”
The Moog Messenger will be available starting June 2, 2025, for $899. Find out more on Moog website.
