GEAR, HARDWARE, NEWS, TECH, PRO AUDIO
Mathias Pageau
NAMM 2025, NAMM announcements, best new gear NAMM, Korg Multi/Poly Module, Stylophone CPM DS-2, miniKORG 700Sm, best new synths, music production gear, analog synthesizers, modular synths, music technology
GEAR, HARDWARE, NEWS, TECH, PRO AUDIO
Mathias Pageau
NAMM 2025, NAMM announcements, best new gear NAMM, Korg Multi/Poly Module, Stylophone CPM DS-2, miniKORG 700Sm, best new synths, music production gear, analog synthesizers, modular synths, music technology

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, I’ll be rounding up the highlights as they’re revealed. Check back often for updates—we’re diving headfirst into the most exciting gear NAMM 2025 has to offer!
The Best of NAMM 2025… So Far
Behringer BX1
Donner L1 Synthesizer
Hercules DJControl Mix Ultra
ROLI AI-Powered Piano
AKAI MPC 3 Update
GForce Bass Station Virtual Instrument
Stylophone CPM DS-2 Analog Drone Synthesizer
Korg miniKORG 700Sm
XILS-lab’s The Eighty
Polyend Step
Scaler 3 by Plugin Boutique
Korg multi/poly Module
Reloop’s Keypad Pro
Disclosure: This blog contains affiliate links, which means Internet Tattoo may receive a commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you.
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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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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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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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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Polyend Step
Polyend’s Step is a versatile rhythm creation tool designed for live performances and practice, offering 350 preset rhythms, 200 drumkits, and the ability to craft and store up to 1,000 songs. With four tracks, adjustable swing, micro-move, and over 50 effects, it balances humanized grooves with machine precision. Foot controls allow easy pattern changes and tempo adjustments, while MIDI I/O ensures seamless integration with other gear.
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Scaler 3 by Plugin Boutique
Scaler 3 introduces enhanced composition tools, including an Explore Page for curated chord options and a Colors Page for voicings and substitutions. Its streamlined interface features Browse, Create, and Arrange tabs, while new Motions, deeper note editing, and advanced arpeggiator capabilities elevate music production workflows. Pre-orders include a free upgrade for Scaler 2 users.
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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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Reloop’s Keypad Pro
The Keypad Pro combines a 25-key mini keyboard, 16 drum pads with aftertouch, and an 8-channel mixer in a compact USB-MIDI workstation. It offers Bluetooth MIDI, integrated arpeggiator, chord and scale modes, and seamless plug-and-play with major DAWs like Bitwig Studio. Battery/USB power options enhance its portability.
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Other Interesting Releases
Keyboards & Synths
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.
Melbourne Instruments MIDI Controller: A sleek new controller with motorized knobs, teased as a game-changer for hands-on MIDI performance.
Roland VMH-S100: Studio headphones with dual-sided connectivity and premium sound quality, bundled with a 3-month subscription to Roland Cloud.
Roland V-Stage: Available in 76- and 88-key versions, these keyboards are designed for performance supremacy, offering rich features and unparalleled playability.
Viscount Legend One: A stage keyboard that combines authentic organ tones with pianos and synths, delivering unmatched versatility for gigging musicians.
Nonlinear Labs C15 Update: The C15 receives a major firmware update at NAMM, doubling its polyphony and expanding its sonic possibilities.
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.
Pro Audio
CME C2MIDI Pro: A revolutionary USB-C MIDI cable that doubles as a MIDI filter, mapper, and router, redefining what a MIDI cable can do.
Mackie ProFX10 GO: A battery-powered mixer offering pro-quality mixing capabilities anywhere you go.
Focal Utopia Mains: Ultra-premium studio monitors priced at $50k, offering unparalleled clarity for the most discerning audio engineers.
Audient iD48: A flagship 8-channel audio interface designed for effortless integration of outboard gear with superior audio quality.
Korg Handytraxx Turntables: Inspired by Vestax, these portable turntables mark Korg's bold entry into the vinyl game.
Universal Audio Luna: A major update enhances this free DAW with new features and improved functionality, solidifying its status as a powerful production tool.
API ASM164: A dual-bus 16-channel analog summing mixer inspired by the legendary "THE BOX" console, featuring insert points on every channel for ultimate flexibility.
Apogee Podcast Kit Collection: Two all-in-one podcast kits with professional-grade microphones and accessories, perfect for creators of all levels.
Guitars & Pedals
Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus Plugin: A plugin recreating its legendary clean tones and Dimensional Space Chorus effect of the classic solid state amp.
Boss Waza Tube Amp Expander Core: A compact recording tool for tube amp owners, offering studio-grade features in a portable design.
Orange Baby Series: Compact solid-state amp heads that weigh just 3kg yet deliver 100W of power, perfect for musicians seeking portability without sacrificing tone.
DigiTech MonoNeon Signature Whammy: An innovative pedal featuring Hypersonic 3-octave bends, created in collaboration with MonoNeon for expressive performance.
DigiTech HammerOn: A rapid pitch-shifter pedal that takes the lead, creating riffs and unique tonal effects automatically.
Walrus Audio Qi Etherealizer: A creative multi-effect pedal that enhances guitar tones and adapts seamlessly for use with other instruments.
Mooer GS1000: A feature-packed amp profiler aiming to redefine the market with innovative tone modeling and user-friendly features.
Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier: The iconic ‘90s two-channel amp is back, delivering ominous low-end, rich harmonics, and its unmistakable midrange scoop.
IK Multimedia Tonex Cab: A state-of-the-art FRFR speaker delivering multi-dimensional guitar tones with unmatched articulation and power.
Behringer Octavia Octave Fuzz: A faithful recreation of the 1960s octave fuzz made famous by Jimi Hendrix, delivering instant retro vibes.
Click here for all the latest news and on hardware synths, DJ tools and VST plugins
Disclosure: This blog contains affiliate links, which means Internet Tattoo may receive a commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you.
Mathias Pageau