Every year, the NAMM convention brings the music industry together for a whirlwind showcase of innovation, creativity, and cutting-edge gear. Whether you’re a producer on the hunt for the next big thing, a musician ready to upgrade your setup, or just a gearhead who loves the buzz of new releases, NAMM is the ultimate playground. It’s where legendary brands and indie makers collide to unveil everything from jaw-dropping synths to must-have effects pedals—and, let’s face it, a few surprises that nobody saw coming. This post is your guide to the coolest releases and standout announcements coming out of NAMM. From game-changing synths and wild pro audio tools you didn’t even know you needed—we’re diving headfirst into the most exciting gear NAMM 2025 has to offer!

The Best of NAMM 2025… So Far

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Behringer at NAMM 2025: Attack of the Clones

After a decade-long absence, Behringer has returned to NAMM 2025, showcasing its (somewhat controversial) strategy of reimagining iconic instruments from brands like Yamaha, Roland, and Sequential. Under the Music Tribe umbrella, Behringer highlighted recent recreations like the LmDrum (LinnDrum), Wave (PPG Wave), and a Eurorack modular system inspired by Moog. The booth also previewed three upcoming synths: the BX-1 (Yamaha DX-1, see below), Pro-16 (Sequential Prophet-5/10), and JT-16 (Roland Jupiter-8), all positioned as affordable alternatives to the originals, with modern enhancements.

Behringer has openly embraced a 'Market Follower' strategy, offering high-quality copies of vintage synths at significantly lower prices. With flagship knockoffs like the UB-Xa (Oberheim OB-X) and BS-80 (Yamaha CS-80) already announced, the company aims to provide musicians access to a complete collection of classic synth recreations for a fraction of the cost of vintage originals. While still in development, these synths signal Behringer’s bold plans to redefine accessibility to legendary instruments.

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Behringer BX1

Behringer has announced the BX1, a modern recreation of the iconic Yamaha DX1 today. Known as the flagship of Yamaha's DX series, the DX1 featured dual DX7 sound engines, polyphonic aftertouch, and a luxurious design, including a Brazilian Rosewood veneer. The BX1 faithfully replicates much of the original’s functionality while introducing modern enhancements like an FX section, a CS-80-inspired analog multi-mode filter, and an SD card slot for expanded memory capabilities.

The BX1 features a 61-key polyphonic aftertouch keybed, redesigned for portability, along with 32-note polyphony, A/B sound engine functionality, and versatile connectivity options, including USB, balanced XLR outputs, and MIDI ports. While pricing and availability are yet to be announced, this prototype promises to deliver the revered sound and advanced features of the DX1 at a more accessible price point.

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Dubreq Stylophone Gen X-2

Dubreq has unveiled the Stylophone Gen X-2, a surprising sequel to the popular Gen X-1, blending the charm of the original Stylophone with expanded features. The Gen X-2 retains its stylus-based design and onboard speaker but adds new functionality like an octave selection switch, a three-mode slider, and updated labeling for the delay section, hinting at possible circuit upgrades. The redesigned sound strip suggests added versatility, and enhanced connectivity now supports keyboards, sequencers, and modular gear, opening up new creative possibilities. With more details expected soon, this quirky synth promises to push the boundaries of Dubreq’s legacy.

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Donner L1 Synthesizer

Donner has introduced the L1 Synthesizer, a modular synth with a unique removable keyboard design, now available for pre-order. Inspired by the Roland SH-101, the L1 combines a 3340 VCO, 3109 VCF, and 662 VCA, faithfully recreating the classic sound architecture with added features like an extra envelope for modulation and a drone mode for ambient textures. The powerful step sequencer and versatile CV/gate connections make it a compelling choice for modern synth enthusiasts.

The detachable KB-32M keyboard features 32 spring-loaded keys with customizable velocity curves, an intuitive OLED display, and Snap2Connect magnetic integration with the L1 module. It doubles as a MIDI controller, compatible with computers and smartphones.

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Hercules DJControl Mix Ultra

Hercules has unveiled the DJControl Mix Ultra, the first fully wireless DJ controller, setting a new standard for mobile DJ technology. Designed with modern DJs in mind, this controller features Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, allowing seamless integration with iOS and Android devices and the Algoriddim djay app. It also supports music streaming from platforms like Apple Music, offering unmatched flexibility for digital DJs.

The DJControl Mix Ultra includes an integrated rechargeable battery, enabling wireless data transmission and playback through Bluetooth-compatible speakers. With no cables or external power supplies required, DJs gain total freedom and mobility, making it perfect for performances anywhere.

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ROLI AI-Powered Piano

ROLI presents its 49-key AI-powered piano, a bold reimagining of traditional piano design. This innovative instrument integrates artificial intelligence to adapt dynamically to a player's style, offering personalized performance enhancements and seamless responsiveness. Its compact design retains ROLI’s signature sleek aesthetics while introducing advanced features like polyphonic pitch bending, pressure sensitivity, and MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) compatibility for unparalleled expressiveness.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned musician, the ROLI Piano is designed to inspire creativity. Its AI-powered system suggests chords and progressions in real time, making it an excellent tool for composition and improvisation. With USB-C and Bluetooth connectivity, it integrates effortlessly into any modern setup, offering musicians cutting-edge functionality

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AKAI MPC 3 Update

The highly anticipated AKAI MPC 3 firmware update (version 3.4.1) is officially here, delivering major enhancements for MPC Live, One, X, and Key models. Key features include a new Main Mode for streamlined track access, a Linear Arranger for DAW-style organization, and advanced track and pad mixers with plugin reordering. The update also introduces disk streaming, stacked drum samples, enhanced macros with multizone control, and support for Stems. This free update is available now, bringing powerful new tools to compatible MPC hardware.

AKAI also announced a collaboration with Native Instruments, introducing exclusive content for MPC users. The MPC Edition Play Series includes instruments like Analog Dream and Cloud Supply, along with optimized expansions such as Faded Reels and Hazy Days. Additionally, NKS compatibility has been added to the MPK series, allowing deeper integration with Native Instruments' software ecosystem, including Komplete Kontrol and Kontakt, making this update a significant milestone for Akai users.

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GForce Bass Station Virtual Instrument

GForce Software and Novation have released the GForce Bass Station, a plugin version of the classic 1993 Bass Station hardware synthesizer. Faithful to its analog warmth and punchy sound, the updated version includes polyphony, unison modes, and expanded modulation via X-LFO and X-ADSR. It also features a modern sequencer, arpeggiator, and effects like high-pass filter, distortion, and reverb. With over 300 presets and a scalable UI, it blends vintage character with modern flexibility.

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Stylophone CPM DS-2 Analog Drone Synthesizer

Stylophone has unveiled the CPM DS-2, a portable analog drone synthesizer featuring dual 3340 oscillators with sub-oscillators and two 3320 filters for rich sound design. It includes 14 LFO waveforms, vintage-style delay, reverb with eight algorithms, and 12 patch points for modular compatibility. With a built-in speaker, headphone output, and battery/mains power options, it’s a versatile choice for on-the-go creativity.

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XILS-lab’s The Eighty

Inspired by the Yamaha CS-80, The Eighty features three synthesis lines with modeled filters, oscillators, and a 2D mixer for dynamic blending. Performance controls include polyphonic aftertouch and an extended arpeggiator, while four integrated effects and 500+ presets ensure versatility. Its intuitive interface makes it accessible for beginners while offering depth for seasoned sound designers. With detailed emulation and expanded sonic options, this plugin is a modern homage to an analog classic.

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Korg miniKORG 700Sm

The miniKORG 700Sm is a portable reissue of Korg’s 1970s classic, featuring 37 slim keys with aftertouch, a Traveler filter controller, spring reverb, and arpeggiator. With USB, MIDI IN, and CV/GATE connectivity, it delivers the iconic analog warmth in a compact, versatile design. Modern enhancements like 14 program memories and a pitch/modulation joystick make it ideal for both retro enthusiasts and contemporary performers. Its scaled-down size ensures portability without compromising sound quality.

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Korg multi/poly Module

The multi/poly Module reimagines the Mono/Poly in a 19” rack-mountable unit with up to 60 voices of polyphony, four oscillators per program, and dual-modeled filters. It supports MIDI 2.0 and polyphonic aftertouch, blending classic analog warmth with modern digital integration for seamless studio setups. Ideal for sound designers, it retains the rich character of the original while offering deep programming possibilities. The compact design fits effortlessly into any professional or home studio rack.

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Soundtoys SpaceBlender

Soundtoys is offering a sneak peak of SpaceBlender, an innovative effects plugin that pushes reverb into new creative territory. While still in its testing phase, the plugin impressed audiences with real-time demos showcasing its potential as more than just a reverb tool. Described as an "Imaginary Space Machine," SpaceBlender hints at combining reverb, convolution, modulation, and special effects for unique sonic possibilities. With its release expected soon, this plugin promises to expand the boundaries of spatial sound design.

Update: Soundtoys released SpaceBlender. This new plugin is free for a limited time.

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ESI XSynth

ESI has unveiled the XSynth at NAMM 2025, a polyphonic synthesizer derived from the CME XKey MIDI controller. Featuring an expressive keyboard with polyphonic aftertouch, the XSynth offers exceptional playability in a compact form. Its digital synth engine boasts 8+ voice polyphony, three oscillators per voice, a multimode filter, and a modulation matrix for versatile sound design. Additional features like three LFOs and an arpeggiator make the XSynth a powerful tool for studio and live performance. Compact yet capable, the XSynth delivers a deep and expressive synthesis experience.

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Rane One MKII

The Rane One MKII has been unveiled at NAMM 2025 as the next iteration of Rane’s popular motorized two-channel DJ controller. Retaining the best features of the original, like its motorized jog wheels, sturdy build, and Serato compatibility, the MKII introduces a host of exciting upgrades. Chief among them is stems functionality, allowing DJs to isolate vocals, drums, and instruments directly via the main pads or newly added secondary buttons. Stems features extend to innovative modes like stem roll and stem effects, while EQ pots can also adjust stems for dynamic mixing control.

In addition, the MKII debuts 29 dynamic effects, borrowed from the Rane Performer, along with a dedicated sampler knob and tension-adjustable MAG FOUR crossfader. The latest DACs ensure improved sound quality, and the controller comes in a bold new “premium white” design, breaking from the traditional all-black aesthetic.

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Other Interesting Releases

Modal Electronics Carbon8M: A powerful desktop module version of the Carbon8 family, delivering rich digital synthesis and extensive modulation options in a compact format.
Rhodes MIDI-Integrated Pianos: Classic craftsmanship meets cutting-edge tech with polyphonic aftertouch for extended expression.
Nord Piano 6: Enhanced flexibility for live performances and sound creation, taking piano innovation to the next level.
Korg Kronos Revived: Enhanced with faster operation and new sounds, the updated Kronos takes this legendary workstation to the next level.
Kurzweil K2061 and K2088: The V.A.S.T. synthesizers debut at NAMM with cutting-edge features and refined sound engines, building on prototypes from last year.
Melbourne Instruments ROTO Control: Melbourne Instruments has unveiled ROTO Control at NAMM 2025, a groundbreaking desktop device featuring motorised controllers that bring unparalleled precision to hardware and software control.

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