As another year begins to wind down, we're taking a look back at all the awesome gear that came our way. From synthesizers, drum machines, and Eurorack modules to samplers and effects, it was a year full of wild and wacky new inventions—and new inspiration.

So, we reached out to some of our favorite artists and internet creators to fill us in on their year, specifically asking them one simple question: what was the coolest piece of gear you got this year? For some, that meant game-changing new releases, and for others, it meant sitting down and finally getting to know some modern classic instruments.

Click here if you're returning and want to jump straight to our newest additions—and be sure to head over to our Staff Picks 2022 article for some more ideas about rad gear from 2022. Or alternatively, read on to see the full list of our pals' favorite electronic music gear available today.

Round 1: Emily Hopkins, Starsky Carr, Red Means Recording, and Even More Pals

In our first round of year's-end recommendations, we heard from loads of rad creators—the techno-loving Ihor, harpist + effect enthusiast extraordinaire Emily Hopkins, composer Starsky Carr, Robin Vincent of Molten Music Technology, our pal and music production whiz Red Means Recording, guitar effect pedal freakout wizard Cyberattack, and our friend Dean from Electronisounds Audio.

Quite the colorful crew, their recommendations range from new Eurorack modules and grooveboxes to effect pedals, experimental drum machines, keyboard synthesizers, and more. Check out the video above to hear it all straight from them—and read on for our thoughts about everything they chose as their favorite gear of the year.

Modbap Modular Osiris Bi-Fidelity Wavetable Oscillator

We'll start out with one of our pal Ihor's picks. Modbap Modular has consistently rolled out out unique modules that fuse the world of Eurorack synthesizers and hip-hop—quite in line with the general Modbap musical aesthetic. Osiris is their first dedicated oscillator module…and it is an absolute powerhouse.

Modbap's Osiris takes the idea of a wavetable Eurorack oscillator, puts their own spin on it, and adds the perfect amount of functionality.

Acid Rain Technology Maestro: A Multitude of Modulation

Another top choice from Ihor, Acid Rain Technology's Maestro is a 6-channel playable modulation source that uses a gently-lit button matrix for quick parameter access and assignment. There is no deep menu diving—instead, everything is laid out neatly on the button matrix.

Maestro is beyond a simple LFO or CV source—it can do that, of course, but it is also capable of so much more. Once you get your hands on the satisfying matrix and start to see how easy it is to use, you'll be hooked. Acid Rain Technology continues to innovate.

Andrew Huang x Endorphin.es GHOST Eurorack Multi-Effect Module

If you have been on YouTube looking at music at all in the past several years, you definitely know the name Andrew Huang—and this year he has collaborated with Endorphin.es to create the GHOST module. It's the final recommendation from our pal Ihor.

It's hard to ignore the giant filter knob in the center, and it is truly one of the most expressive controls on the module. Instead of choosing between low pass and high pass, you get both: by turning CCW you get a low pass filter and CW gives you a high pass. You can also set it into a band pass mode or change it to be a comb filter—when combining this with the distortion in the front or back, just about any sound can be dialed in. For a small system—or a large one—GHOST checks a lot of boxes.

Emily Hopkins Goes Modular with the Moog Sound Studio

Ask almost anyone what they think of when they hear the word "synthesizer" and there's a good chance that a Moog instrument comes to mind. As such, Moog's semi-modular instruments are a popular starting point for anyone interested in exploring modular synthesis.

Between the Mother-32, DFAM, and Subharmonicon, any of those instruments alone would offer a new and exciting sonic world on their own, but the possibilities are drastically increased when you pair two or more of them together. Moog themselves realized this as their semi-modular ecosystem grew larger, and began bundling them together in collections known as Mother-32 and DFAM. Between the Mother-32's straight-ahead subtractive synthesis architecture and the DFAM's punchy, all-analog drum sounds, this Sound Studio package delivers all of the quintessential Moog sounds. Thick basses, fluttery arpeggios, gritty kicks, and experimental sci-fi textures are all easily achieved. And because both instruments are highly patchable, you can customize their signal paths to your liking or even use one to modulate or affect the other.

Regardless of which package you pick, all Sound Studios come with a number of accessories and trinkets to get you started. From patch guides and exercises to the included stand and audio mixer, a Moog Sound Studio is truly a central hub in which you can begin (or extend) your modular synthesis journey. And of course, remember that Moog's individual semi-modular synths pack a lot of power as well: in fact, our pal Miles Kvndra picked the Mother-32 as his top acquisition of 2022 (as you'll see in a video below!).

Oberheim OB-X8: Perhaps the Best Analog Polysynth Ever?

The return of Tom Oberheim with the new analog eight-voice polysynth OB-X8 is undoubtedly one of the most exciting events in recent synth history. The instrument embodies the rich legacy of its inventor, and being one of the last projects that Dave Smith was involved in before his passing, the arrival of OB-X8 furthermore holds a sentimental value for the synthesizer community. This made it Starsky Carr's top pick of 2022.

×

Cleverly combining the distinctive features of the iconic OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8, the instrument assumes the spot as the ultimate Oberheim synthesizer, and it further justifies its rightful position by offering a collection of faithfully recreated factory sounds from all of the original models. Moreover, OB-X8 is bi-timbral, allowing the performer to simultaneously interact with two distinctly different sounds, and construct thick, warm, and multilayered textures.

In all truth, OB-X8 is as close to perfection as it gets in terms of analog polysynths. Its build quality and sound are remarkable, and there really is no other instrument out there that is similarly capable of delivering such an authentic feel and character of several legendary Oberheim instruments. Assuredly, OB-X8 is destined to become the future classic.

An Enduring Favorite Oddball: SOMA Laboratory Pulsar-23

It is difficult to imagine someone maintaining their regular facial expression upon a first encounter with the Soma’s Pulsar-23. The interface of what the company calls an "organismic drum machine" is simultaneously perplexing and alluring. This is not incidental, as Vlad Kreimer, the chief creator of the instrument, took a series of radical design decisions that don’t merely contribute to the esoteric character of the drum machine, but above all turn out to be functionally practical, and creatively stimulating. It was another of Starsky Carr's picks this year.

Budget-Minded Semi-Modular: Cre8audio / Pittsburgh East Beast + West Pest

Created in collaboration between Cre8Audio and Pittsburgh Modular, East Beast and West Pest are semi-modular synthesizers that collectively present a great framework for exploring two distinctive approaches to sound synthesis. Named with a respective reference toward the so-called “east coast” and “west coast” schools of synthesis, the two instruments are among the most affordable in that category, yet remarkably versatile and great-sounding. Importantly, both instruments are designed to be easily integrated into a variety of studio and performance situations, thanks to their 20-point patch bay, and full MIDI integration. These were another of Starsky Carr's personal picks this year.

×

East Beast is a classic monophonic subtractive synthesizer featuring a single multi-waveshape analog oscillator, a PGH-signature multi-mode resonant filter, a VCA, an ADSR envelope, a dual-range triangle-wave LFO, a digital multi-mode modulation source, a 32-step sequencer, and an arpeggiator. In its default state, all of the traditional mono synth sounds are readily available, and a few knob twists can already be enough to switch from funky bass to screaming leads to percussive hits, however, the patch bay on the instrument offers access to more advanced synthesis techniques including pulse width modulation and FM.

West Pest is also a monophonic analog synthesizer, though it offers a distinctly contrasting Buchla-esque approach to sound synthesis. The core elements of the instrument are the oscillator with selectable sine, saw, and triangle waveshapes, a character-rich wavefolder, and a sonically-nuanced dynamics controller specifically designed by Pittsburgh Modular as a modern variation on the classic LPG circuits. Furthermore, the oscillator section features a dedicated FM control and includes a dual-waveshape LFO to add movement and variation to the patches. Similarly to the East Beast, West Pest sports an additional digital multi-mode utility offering a secondary envelope, LFO, or a random voltage source, as well as a 32-step sequencer and an arpeggiator.

Collectively, East Beast and West Pest offer one of the most affordable, and straightforward entry points into the realm of analog and modular sound synthesis. And while the streamlined interface, playful graphics, and well-thought-out interfaces make these instruments great for beginners, they also offer plenty of creative possibilities to keep seasoned synthesists excited. They can even be removed from their enclosures and added to a Eurorack system, should you choose to branch out into the world of modular synthesis.

Affordable Virtual Analog: Modal COBALT5S

For the past few years, Modal Electronics has been turning heads with their compact but powerful synthesizers. Their Cobalt line got even more compact and portable earlier this year with the release of the COBALT5S. It's a slim instrument with powerful synthesis and controller capabilities, and when paired with a USB power bank COBALT5S is also a capable musical companion on the go.

×

Slimmed down to the essentials, COBALT5S puts five voices of Modal's thoroughly impressive virtual analog synthesis engine at your disposal. From immense supersaws to bizarre ring modulator arrangements, the COBALT engine extends well beyond what real analog circuits can actually do, but maintains a familiar sound and workflow when needed. All parameters are still accessible through the OLED screen menus, but all of the most common options are available through the 16 encoders across the top. These encoders are also multipurpose, and in various modes allow you to transmit MIDI CCs or control the onboard sequencer and arpeggiator.

Modal also offers the companion MODALapp for controlling the COBALT5s from your computer or tablet. When you want instant access to every parameter on a clearly laid-out screen, this is the way to go for in depth sound design sessions. But that said, COBALT5S still packs in plenty of fun and tweakability from the synth itself, and is a great choice for anyone that wants flexible sounds in a pseudo-analog space but with the ability to step out into more adventurous timbres.

Knobula Kickain: You'll Get A Kick Out Of It

Robin Vincent of Molten Music Technology's top pick of the year was Knobula's Kickain...but what is it?

Simple in purpose with a intricate execution, Knobula's Kickain might just be the last kick you need.

Elektron Syntakt: Easily the Best Drum Machine of 2022

That's still not the complete Syntakt story, though. Borrowing from the flagship Elektron boxes, Syntakt features a global FX Track, with its own dedicated analog filter, VCA, plus digital delay and reverb effects. Individual audio tracks may be routed into the FX Track, including the external audio inputs, and there's even a dedicated lane on the sequencer for controlling the FX Track's parameters. For performers, Trig Modifiers offer real-time control over retriggering, velocity, or two assignable parameters across any or all tracks. And when you factor in Overbridge support and Elektron's stellar track record for introducing new features into their products, you'll find that Syntakt has a lot to offer for electronic musicians of all genres and stylings.

Alexander Pedals Space Force: Better Than the United States Space Force

Cyberattack is easily one of the weirdest and most creative forces for demonstrating effect pedals on the internet. So when he makes a recommendation, we listen! This year, his favorite new pedal was the Alexander Pedals Space Force.

Crowd Favorite: Polyend Play Sample-Based Groovebox

Our pals Bo Beats, Noir et Blanc Vie, and Dean from Electronisounds Audio offered their opinions as well, naming the Polyend Play as his top pick of 2022. As more of our collaborative videos roll out, you'll see that he was far from alone—so, what's Play all about?

×

Play marks a new chapter in Polyend’s inspired odyssey into the realm of grid-based musical instruments. With enough features to make it a potential centerpiece of one's studio or a performance setup, Play is a powerful 16-track MIDI and sample-based groovebox that boasts a particularly potent sequencer, and a wealth of creative features. And while its visual resemblance to the brand's previous release Tracker may seem suggestive of a similar workflow, Play justifies its name by welcoming a decidedly hands-on approach. So what makes Play special?

To complement the mind-boggling complexity of the sequencer, the built-in sound engine is kept streamlined, but versatile—an evidently intentional exercise in imposing a creativity-boosting limitation. All of the audio tracks on Play are equivalent to each other: monophonic sample players that include standard modifiers for pitch, volume, and panning, as well as a dedicated rearranger, filter, and overdrive effects. While the sample tracks are monophonic, each sequencer step can be assigned to trigger a different sample from the library, effectively allowing you to create very intricate grooves using a single track. The instrument also sports a comprehensive master effects section comprising reverb, delay, sound enhancer, limiter, and saturator.

Without a doubt, Play sets a new standard for groovebox-style instruments. It retains much of what is familiar about grooveboxes to keep the instrument immediately accessible but enhances its performative potential in every possible way. Sure, it does not allow you to manipulate live audio or even record samples directly into it, but perhaps this is a willful shift of focus toward different aspects of music-making.

Round 2: Bo Beats, Sarah Belle Reid, Jorb, and More!

In part two of this ongoing series, we heard from even more of our favorite internet creators and artists, including Dexba, Blush Response, Shiro Fujioka (aka VoltageCtrlR), Bo Beats, Sarah Belle Reid, Jorb of Jorb Loves Gear, and Oora. VoltageCtrlR and Bo Beats picked Elektron's Syntakt and Polyend's Play, respectively, but the rest of these pals each introduced us to something that we haven't yet covered...so let's take a dive into their favorite gear this year.

Wingie 2: It'll Really Resonate With You

A Classic Reimagined: Korg ARP 2600 M

Our friend Blush Response came back to us with a solid pick for the best electronic music gear of the year. With ARP 2600 M, Korg demonstrated a couple of particularly remarkable accomplishments. One—they reintroduced one of the most iconic analog semi-modular synthesizers back into the market, while keeping intact all of its much beloved sonic character, and powerful features. And two, they reduced the size of the instrument by 60% without any significant sacrifices to the ergonomics, playability, and aesthetics that the original model was known for. By design, M is a smaller, lighter, and more affordable version of what many tenably consider to be the best synthesizer of all time. So what is it about ARP 2600 that earns it such a high spot in the hearts and minds of countless artists?

×

One of the main contributing factors to the success of the instrument is its versatility. ARP 2600 boasts an exceptionally well-thought-out arrangement of modules, as well as a few particularly distinctive features like built-in speakers and analog spring reverb. The instrument is equipped with three robust multi-purpose oscillators, a noise generator, a resonant filter, two envelopes, sample-and-hold, a VCA, a voltage processor, a preamp for bringing in external sounds, and an envelope follower—a collection that holds a wealth of opportunities for creative sound design.

All-in-all, ARP 2600 M is a testament to the fact that a well-designed instrument will stand the test of time, and will remain relevant throughout the ceaseless tides of rapidly changing musical electronics. To this day, it remains one of the most flexible analog synthesizers—still rarely challenged by even modern devices in its category. It is a living legend, and if you are eager to learn more about the history of this instrument, we have it covered to a great detail this article.

Open Your Ears: Make Noise XPO Stereo Prismatic Oscillator

Selected by our good friend Sarah Belle Reid, the Stereo Prismatic Oscillator or XPO is the newest addition to Make Noise's growing family of stereo modules, and it is the first analog oscillator in this series. In line with everything Make Noise does, XPO is not an ordinary analog oscillator, and it is a rather fresh perspective on how to deeply embed stereo spatial exploration into the core of a musical instrument. Inspired by the voice panning feature on the classic OB-8 synthesizer (among other things), Make Noise takes XPO to the uncharted territories of stereo timbral modulation, a place very few other instruments have gone before.

A Pint-Sized Prophet: Sequential Take 5

Our pal / gear nerd / and all-around-fun-guy Jorb picked one of the most powerful compact keyboard synths: Sequential's Take 5. Sequential is well-known for its extensive catalog of analog polysynths, not least of all the legendary Prophet-5. But with a premium sound comes a premium price, as most Sequential instruments are a significant financial investment. With that in mind, Dave Smith's team wanted to work out the quintessential representation of the Sequential sound at a price point that was somewhat more affordable. The result? Sequential's Take 5.

Taking Control: OXI One MIDI + CV Sequencer

An Arrangement view allows you to save patterns and compose with clips, making it great for live performance as well as an alternative to conventional composition. Their firmware is constantly updated, too, with new modes being added and tweaked. For something that is both unpredictable and controllable, there is nothing like the OXI INstruments One.

Round 3: Venus Theory, Noir et Blanc Vie, Midlife Synthesist, and Other Buddies

For round three, we heard from even more of our internet pals, recommending everything from groundbreaking new pedals to some of the coolest drum machines and grooveboxes from the last five years. We won't re-tread old ground in our text here, so read below for our take on some of the unique perspectives from this group of friends: Venus Theory, Miles Kvndra, Noir et Blanc Vie, Get Offset, Midlife Synthesist, and Surco.

An Oldie, but a Goodie: Roland TR-8S

Venus Theory's top pick came as something of a surprise—because it wasn't really something new at all, just something that was new to his workflow. Roland's TR-8S has been around for nearly five years, still, it is easily one of the most revered drum machines currently (or ever?) produced. Initially emerging as a natural evolution to the TR-8—the first performance-oriented rhythm instrument in Roland's Aira series—TR-8S has matured into a truly versatile and sonically diverse electronic percussion device.

×

Like all the instruments in the Aira series, its design is based on Roland's Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology, in this case faithfully recreating all sounds from such iconic instruments as the TR-808, TR-707, and TR-909. However, the analog modeling circuits in the evolved drum machine are further complemented by sample playback capabilities (that's what 'S' stands for), and since the 2.0 update, a collection of unique digital FM engines. But, despite its versatility, it's quite playable and easy to use: if offers an intuitive knob-per-function interface, a powerful sequencer, and a slew of live-oriented features. So how does that all tie together?

×

Now, TR-8S is not technically a groovebox, but this kind of flexibility certainly brings it extremely close to being qualified as one. The design of the instrument cleverly balances advanced performance features, and ease of use. There are a few functions that require getting into the menu, but the menu dives are never deep, and all of the critical elements are always at the fingertips. It is expressly made to be a plug-and-play type of instrument.

The drum machine is equipped with plenty of analog and digital connectivity options. Besides the main stereo mix, and headphone outputs, the device sports a dedicated out for each of its eleven instrument channels. It has a separate trigger out that can be used for clocking or sequencing other instruments. USB port can be used to transmit both MIDI, and audio. Moreover, for MIDI communication, the instrument also includes 5-pin I/O ports. All in all, TR-8S is equally adapted to be a focal tool in studio-based groove production and a delightful companion for improvising electronic dance music.

Cult Favorite Reborn: Roland Boutique JX-08

The JX-08 continues Roland's prominent Boutique instruments series, unleashing the sonic power of the illustrious JX-8P synthesizer. Released in 1985, the design of JX-8P offered a well-rounded concoction of classic analog tones and DX-inspired digital FM sounds. Groundbreaking as it was then, this approach to sound synthesis proves to be as relevant today. JX-08 picks up exactly where the original model left off, yet it is enhanced with a plethora of modern features, has PG-800 programmer functionality built-in, and like all instruments in the Boutique series, it is decidedly compact and portable. JX-08 is not necessarily a clone of the JX-8P, rather it is best viewed as a greatly capable scion. But let's start from the top. What is JX-08?

While JX-08 does not necessarily map one-to-one to the iconic synthesizer that inspired it, it is close enough to provide you with many of the 80s classic tones, while remaining decidedly contemporary in both its performance features and sonic potential. By all accounts, JX-08 presents a great example of how ideas from the past can be revitalized and refreshed with the opportunities offered by new technology.

Echoes of the Past: Chase Bliss Habit

When it comes to delay pedals, there's so much sonic territory that can be explored—to the point where it can be really daunting to even attempt to make something new. But if anyone is up to the challenge, it's our pals over at Chase Bliss. Earlier this year, their latest dip switch-equipped time effect was shared with the world: the Habit Experimental Delay.

At its most basic level, Habit can be a straightforward digital delay with some neat bells and whistles. Dial in your delay time, feedback, and intensity with Size, Repeats, and Level, and explore the six Modifiers to add some variety to your delay. There's pitch-shifting, glitchy chop effects, tape-like wow and flutter, and plenty of other sounds to be uncovered. And with the Spread control, you can dial in a second delay tap for multitap sounds, rhythmic effects, and complex musical phrases of past and present layered on top of each other.

Considering the above, Habit already feels like quite the capable delay pedal, right? But that's just the beginning—Habit also contains three minutes of memory that is always listening and always recording what you play into the pedal. With the Scan control, you can determine how far Habit will look back into its own memory, bringing back old ideas into the current moment for spontaneous song-form creation and self-accompanying passages. And of course, incorporate the internal Ramp modulation for automated parameter changes, MIDI for precision control, and you'll have truly unlocked the magic of what Habit has to offer.

Chase Bliss have adopted a direct-only sales model, and we've since sold out of Habit pedals, so be sure to visit their website for more details and to explore the rest of their adventurous catalog.

Round 4: Benn Jordan, Trovarsi, Marie Ann Hedonia, Liam Killen, + More!

Last, but certainly not least, we have round four: featuring some of our favorite friends and artists. In this video we hear some more rave reviews of Knobula's Kickain, Polyend's Play, and Oberheim's OB-X8—we wrote about all of those above, so we're not going to re-tread old ground here. That said, there were some new/unique picks among this batch—so check out the video above and read on for all the details.

In this video, we hear from Marie Anne Hedonia, Jameson Nathan Jones, redstripedown, Liam Killen, Monotrail Tech Talk, Trovarsi, and our pal Benn Jordan. Check it out!

Back on Track: Elektron Digitakt

Released in 2017, Digitakt properly marked the beginning of Elektron's series of compact and powerful music performance machines—and it was Liam Killen's top gear pick of 2022. Branded as a drum computer and sampler, the instrument initially sparked a wave of nervous speculation about whether it was an unannounced replacement for the company's existing performance sampler, the Octatrack. After all, the two seem to overlap in functionality…at least on the first encounter. But that anxiety dissipated quickly as Digitakt proved to be a decidedly different machine, with a distinct sound, unique features, and a workflow wholly optimized for performance and speed. Effectively, Digitakt is a sample-based powerhouse of an instrument that equally excels as a tool for sound design, composition, and live use.

The core of the instrument is eight audio tracks and Elektron's signature superbly robust sequencer that further extends to eight MIDI tracks. The instrument comes preloaded with a few sample files, but it immediately encourages you to fill it up with your original sounds. This can be done by directly recording audio into the instrument's inputs or via a simple computer transfer procedure. Once the samples are in, they can be manipulated and reshaped in ways spanning from subtle to extreme. You can retune, stretch, compress, reverse, loop, and chop up samples—essentially use them as a driving element of all sound design on the instrument. And because samples are such a varied and malleable type of audio, this ensures a high degree of personalization and an overall diverse sonic palette of the instrument.

Like many contemporary Elektron machines, Digitakt supports Overbridge—the company's proprietary system which facilitates deep integration of their hardware instruments with computers. This entails that Digitakt enjoys a streamlined control, and audio transfer over USB. And while Digitakt would remain a fantastic instrument even without the Overbridge, this feature certainly makes it even more appealing for increasingly popular hybrid setups. All in all, if you are looking for a sample-based instrument with a wealth of creative potential, one that performs equally well in the studio and as a performance tool, Digitakt may just be the right thing.

From the Depths: Qu-Bit Nautilus

redstripedown adds yet another Eurorack module to our list—and truthfully, it's probably one of the most interesting audio effects released this year in any format.

Stereo Paraphonic Semi-Modular Goodness: Moog's Matriarch

Jameson Nathan Jones picked one of the most interesting keyboard synths currently available. The apex of Moog's semi-modular series, Matriarch is a kind of synthesizer that just has a lot done right about it. The synthesizer is spacious, immediate, and a pleasure to play; it is powerful, flexible, and replete with fresh ideas. Most importantly, its sound is stunning.

×

In essence, Matriarch is a paraphonic patchable synthesizer with a fully analog signal path and a deep bent toward stereo sound. The appearance of the instrument clearly outlines its modular composition, comprising four oscillators, a mixer, an LFO, two utility modules, two ADSR envelopes, a stereo VCA, a stereo filter, and a stereo analog delay. For control, Matriarch offers an arpeggiator, a sequencer, and a four-octave Fatar keyboard with velocity sensitivity and monophonic aftertouch. And while the modules themselves bear all the revered qualities associated with the Moog's brand, perhaps the true genius of Matriarch manifests in exactly how all these modules are combined to deliver a very original instrument with a staggeringly wide range of applications.

×

The VCA mode split is by no means the only place where Matriarch shines. Nearly every module on the instrument has some unique features that bear substantial effects on the overall behavior of the instrument. For example, the LFO module packs an uncommon S&H-derived staircase waveform, and a slewed random voltage source along the more widespread collection of sine, square, and ramps. The oscillator module allows generators two, three, and four to be synced to the first one, spawning a lot of potential for gnarly sonic inflections. The filter module presents a few creative tools for distributing the processed sound across the stereo field, with independent control over the frequency emphasis on each channel. Moreover, it also includes a mode switch that can change the filter behavior from stereo to parallel and series processing. The potential applications of the stereo delay module are vast. It can add simple magic when used sparsely, it can take you to the sonic extremes with feedback and modulation or it can perform as a convenient phrase looper—perfect for building up densely layered soundscapes. And notably, the delay's lush subdued analog tone is to die for.

All of this doesn't even begin to scratch the surface of what Matriarch is capable of. As a MIDI-equipped semi-modular, the synthesizer can easily integrate into any setup. It can even function as a peculiar effects processor, thanks to the inclusion of a dedicated input. Moreover, Matriarch is greatly customizable via a plethora of Global Settings—something we touched upon earlier. These are accessed via keyboard button combo shortcuts, and provide means to fine-tune the instrument's behavior to one's preference including access to such things as the oscillator's frequency knob range, note priority, voice-assignment modes, pitch variance (controlled randomness), and much more. In all respect, Matriarch may not be Moog's most powerful instrument (as of now this title belongs to the Moog One), but it is nevertheless one of the company's best.

Taking Control: The Droid System

Monotrail Tech Talk went deep this year, into one of the most powerful and peculiar corners of the Eurorack modular ecosystem: the Droid system.

Der Mann mit der Maschine focuses on a single modular environment called "Droid," which is a series of modules based around the Droid Master module—the brains behind the whole operation. Essentially what you have is a completely customizable environment for your own workflow: using the Droid Forge—their GUI editor for your computer—you upload your own functionality to the Droid, which can range from simple LFOs, to complex sequencers, to just about anything you can dream of. The Droid Master has a set of eight CV inputs and eight CV outputs which can be expanded using at least half-a-dozen (with more coming) controllers and I/O.

When you attach their P4B2, a 4 pots, 2 button module, or any of their other expanders, they show up instantly in the Forge and let you map whatever you'd like to them. Use the pots to adjust the tempo or length or a sequence, have the buttons trigger a modulation, or use any combination you can think of. The grid of LEDs makes sure you are aware of the CV activity for all ins and outs. Up to 16 of the controllers and expanders can be connected and powered by a single Droid Master module, and with tons of examples and documentation, it only takes a short time to have the perfect brain for you Eurorack.

That's All For Now!

You've reached the end of 2022's Artist Picks—the coolest, most fun, and most inspiring gear that some of our favorite musicians picked up this year. It's amazing to see how many of these artists latched onto something completely new in order to find inspiration—and equally, it's inspiring to see that many of them just came around to some older instruments, bringing new life into otherwise familiar gear. If you're eager to catch more of the year's best gear, be sure to head over to our 2022 Staff Picks article as well—where we talk through our own set of favorite synths, pedals, and sonic oddities.

Of course, one of the most interesting takeaways? Different gear seems to work for different people...and in the end, the "best gear" is really just whatever gear inspires you the most.

And the Polyend Play. People love that dang thing.