The Moog Sub Phatty Analog Synthesizer is quite the unique instrument. It has various features and capabilities that you would not otherwise get on another synthesizer, and that makes it special. Moog has always been known to pay attention to detail on the little things that matter, but especially the sound quality which in fact is no “little thing” at all. Generally, if what you need is a beast synthesizer with astonishing sounds, then you definitely have to put the Moog Sub Phatty synth in the conversation. Even if you choose to go with something else, the instrument commands respect from all musicians around the world, as its output is simply incredible.
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User Interface/Style
Typically, I prefer synthesizers that have a flattop design. In my review of the Korg MS20 Mini, I pointed out that one thing I didn’t like was the keyboard style. The console/panel was coming up at an angle that was too high for my preference. I thought this would be an issue with the Sub Phatty, but I was pleasantly surprised to find out that this was not the case in the slightest and for once, I enjoyed this style of synth. Though it is a very small instrument, it is very easy and simple to play. Thanks to the simple and clean interface of the Moog Sub Phatty synth, even a beginner should not have too many problems learning the ins and outs of the instrument. The style of the keyboard is quite beautiful in its own respect, and while it may not initially look like it, the board is actually quite small. In my experience with it, the Sub Phatty is only slightly larger than the OP-1. This makes travel and being mobile very easy, and that is one of the many strengths of the Moog Sub Phatty.
Overall, I’d have to say that the style of the synthesizer is in my top 10, and quite frankly that’s mostly because of its size. It’s not going to be a pain to carry around like an 88-key synthesizer might be. For example, on my tour in Europe I had a horrible time taking around my Krome 88 and it made the experience a whole lot worse than it had to be. If only I had the Sub Phatty at the time.
Sounds
This is where this instrument really excels – in the sound department. The sounds are large and full, and the classic Moog filter makes the sounds come out in a creamy and smooth way. You certainly can’t go wrong if you choose this board. If you need bass and leads, then this is your go-to instrument. If you want that rich, inimitable Moog bass at a reasonably affordable price point, the Sub Phatty is a great choice. I thought I was impressed with the sound quality of the Roland JUNO DS88 (I still am), but once I heard the sounds emanating from this keyboard I understood that it was not alone. It’s actually quite interesting how Moog was able to pack so much power and beauty in such a small device. Describing what it actually sounds like is too difficult, and one needs to hear it for themselves to get an idea of how powerful this synth is. It’s a must for bass-heads or people new to the analog synth world.
Features
The Moog Sub Phatty Analog synth is not as versatile as say a Yamaha Montage 8 when it comes to features unfortunately. What the device is good at is sound quality and not much else, so if you’re big into features then this might not be the product for you. It still has some things, such as: 25 semi-weighted keys; 100% analog signal path, 31 knobs and 13 switches giving you direct and immediate control over the synth, 2 ultra-stable variable-wave shape oscillators, and a square-wave Sub Oscillator in mixer section. It does have some variety in terms of sound capabilities and functions, but I’d suggest you check out some synthesizer reviews and take a look at other products if you’re sole focus is creativity and features.
Overall
What musicians care about most when it comes to synthesizers is sound quality, generally speaking. Sound quality is the bread and butter of the Moog Sub Phatty Analog synth. Again, features and extra sounds are not what the Sub Phatty is about, but if you want deep, powerful, and room-shattering bass and sounds, then this is an instrument you need to consider. It’s small in size, but does it ever pack a punch!