Key Takeaways:
- The best music tech hardware of 2025 includes the Sequential Fourm, Akai MPC Live III, Arturia AstroLab 37, Roland TR-1000, Novation Launch Control XL 3, and Erica Synths Hexdrums.
- The best music tech software of 2025 includes Xfer Serum 2, Acon Digital Remix:Drums, ValhallaDSP FutureVerb, Arturia Mix Drums, Native Instruments Absynth 6, and Spectrasonics Omnisphere 3.
- These products offer a range of innovative features, including poly aftertouch, multi-zone MPCe pads, and AI-powered stem separation.
- Some of the key trends in music tech for 2025 include the increasing importance of software and plugins, the rise of modular synthesizers, and the growing demand for high-quality, affordable hardware.
Introduction to Music Tech in 2025
As 2025 comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the exciting developments in music technology that have taken place over the past year. From characterful synths to cutting-edge software, there have been numerous innovative products released that have captured the attention of music producers and enthusiasts alike. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best music tech hardware and software of 2025, as selected by MusicRadar’s Managing Editor Si Truss and Reviews Editor Simon Arblaster.
The Best Music Tech Hardware of 2025
The Sequential Fourm, chosen by Simon Arblaster, is a standout product in the hardware category. This polysynth is Sequential’s most accessible instrument in years, with a sub-$1000 price point and compact form factor. One of its key features is poly aftertouch, which allows for expressive chord and arp patches. Another notable product is the Akai MPC Live III, chosen by Si Truss, which offers a range of new features, including multi-zone MPCe pads and a more powerful CPU. The Arturia AstroLab 37, also chosen by Simon Arblaster, is a smaller and more affordable version of the AstroLab range, offering a convenient route into the AstroLab system for studio users.
In-Depth Look at the Best Music Tech Hardware
The Roland TR-1000, chosen by Si Truss, is a high-profile hardware release that combines virtual analogue, digital percussion, and flexible sampling. While it’s a powerful tool, its high price point and some initial bugs at launch are notable drawbacks. The Novation Launch Control XL 3, chosen by Simon Arblaster, is a versatile controller that offers full-sized MIDI ports and a range of new features, including a more intuitive design. The Erica Synths Hexdrums, chosen by Si Truss, is a unique drum machine that offers a fresh and modern sound, but its high price point and limited capabilities may make it less appealing to some users.
The Best Music Tech Software of 2025
In the software category, Xfer Serum 2, chosen by Si Truss, is a notable product. This software synth has been updated with new sample-based oscillator modes, including sample, granular, and spectral synthesis. Acon Digital Remix:Drums, chosen by Simon Arblaster, is an AI-powered stem separation tool that allows for precise control over individual drum elements in a mix. ValhallaDSP FutureVerb, chosen by Si Truss, is a versatile reverb and echo plugin that offers a range of new algorithms and a user-friendly interface.
In-Depth Look at the Best Music Tech Software
Arturia Mix Drums, chosen by Simon Arblaster, is an all-in-one drum processing plugin that combines dynamics, reverb, distortion, and tone-shaping. Native Instruments Absynth 6, chosen by Si Truss, is a classic softsynth that has been updated with a modern interface and new sound design tools. Spectrasonics Omnisphere 3, chosen by Simon Arblaster, is a sample-powered behemoth that offers thousands of new sounds and a range of new features, including MPE support and a global control system.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
In conclusion, 2025 has been an exciting year for music technology, with a range of innovative products that have pushed the boundaries of what is possible in music production. From the best music tech hardware to the best music tech software, there’s something for everyone, regardless of budget or skill level. As we look to the future, it’s clear that music technology will continue to evolve and improve, with new trends and innovations emerging all the time. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or just starting out, there’s never been a better time to get involved in music production and explore the exciting world of music technology.