A Full Moog Sub 37 Review

The Moog Sub 37 is a powerhouse synthesizer that has commanded the attention of musicians, producers, and synth enthusiasts around the globe. With its rich heritage rooted in the legacy of Moog’s synths of yesteryears, the Sub 37 promises not only a nod to classic analog sounds but also integrates modern functionality for today’s musicians. In this comprehensive review, we delve deep into what makes the Moog Sub 37 a notable contender in the world of synthesizers.

Introduction

Moog’s pedigree in the realm of synthesizers and music production is hard to match. With a heritage dating back to the genesis of electronic music, it’s a name that resonates deeply with musicians and producers alike. Throughout the decades, Moog synthesizers have helped shape the sonic landscape of myriad musical genres, winning the brand numerous accolades and a staunchly dedicated user base.

Today, we introduce you to the Moog Sub 37. Born from this storied lineage, the Sub 37 is a tribute edition, a nod to the classic analog synthesizers that put Moog on the musical map. A paragon of the company’s innovation and quality production, this synth marries vintage analog charm with modern functionality to meet the demands of contemporary musicians and producers.

The question then arises – is it worth your attention? Read on as we unfold the myriad aspects of this synthetic beast. From its build quality to sonic capabilities, and from connectivity options to usability, we’ll dissect its offerings and see how it holds up in today’s music production landscape.

In the following sections, prepare to journey deep into the heart of the Moog Sub 37 , as we explore the facets that make it a significant contender in the world of synthesizers. Stay tuned if you’re ready to immerse yourself in a pool of rich, warm, and fat analog tones interwoven with the modern flair of a truly contemporary instrument. This mighty synthesizer stands as an embodiment of Moog’s rich past and its commitment to future innovation; it’s time to check out what the hype is all about.

Moog Sub 37 Design and Build Quality

The first thing that strikes you about the Moog Sub 37 is its remarkable physical layout. Let’s delve into this aspect:

• The synthesizer is built around a 37-note keyboard , which offers a good range of playability.
• The knobs and switches that litter the interface could be daunting to some at first glance. However, these are thoughtfully placed, making modulation, waveform selection and adjustments a breeze as you navigate the synthesizer.
• One particularly impressive attribute is the unprecedented attention paid to the keybed quality. The semi-weighted keys feature a swift action that provides a satisfactory play experience for musicians.

When we move on to the overall build quality , it becomes apparent that Moog has not skimped on providing a robust instrument:

• The solid metal casing is more than capable of withstanding the rigours of live performances and heavy studio use.
• Attention to detail is high, with distinctive pitch and mod wheels, and backlit side panels that add a touch of drama to the synth’s appeal.

Finally, aesthetics are subjective, but it’s safe to say the Moog Sub 37 carries a visual magnetism. The unmistakeable Moog styling is present, offering a delightfully retro-modern appeal. The wooden side panels give a nod to the classic Moog design, while the blue and silver finish imparts a sleek, modern edge. In all, it’s a design that marries an old-school charm with current trends, appealing to both traditionalists and modern players alike.

In summary, the Moog Sub 37, with its compelling design and top-tier build quality, makes you feel that you have invested in a piece of equipment built to last. A device that will not only withstand the rigours of the creative process but enhance it, delivering imaginative sounds from a beautiful, meticulously designed synthesizer.

Moog Sub 37 Key Features

The Moog Sub 37 comes loaded with an array of features that shed light on its impressive sonic capabilities. It boasts a rich-featured design with an emphasis on functionality and versatility. Let’s dive into the key features of this analog synth.

The dual oscillators are right at the heart of Sub 37 which supply the raw sound. Each oscillator can generate both sawtooth and square/pulse waveforms, and Oscillator 2 can even perform at a lower octave or sync to Oscillator 1, adding to the diversity of sound creation.

The mixer section hosts knobs for each oscillator, feedback, and external audio. One important aspect to note is that this section can be driven into overdrive, allowing for more aggressive sounds.

This synth takes its filtering capabilities to another level through the filter section , allowing for sculpting the raw sound. Incorporating a classic ladder design with resonance, MultiDrive, and selectable filter slopes, it keeps the authentic analog sound Moog is known for while adding a touch of modern flexibility.

The modulation possibilities on the Sub 37 are intriguing. Equipped with two assignable modulation busses, each with selectable sources and destinations, it allows an incredible degree of sound manipulation. Modulating everything from oscillator pitch & PWM to filter cutoff & resonance, allows you to create complex shifting sounds.

Perhaps one of the most unique features is its paraphonic capabilities , which sets the Sub 37 apart from most monophonic analog synths. This essentially permits the independent control of both oscillators, allowing you to play two-note chords. This capability is a rare feature in analog synthesizers, rendering the Sub 37 a uniquely versatile machine that goes beyond the realm of a traditional monosynth.

As mesmerizing as the Moog Sub 37 may be concerning its features, it’s the manner in which they all coexist and collaborate that truly highlights its dynamism. The Sub 37’s design facilitates intricate sound design, granting users the capacity to extract a broad spectrum of tones from lush, overflowing orchestral waves and piercing leads to gritty, guttural baselines. These features, coupled with Moog’s classic sonic powerhouse, make the Sub 37 a must-have for those seeking to push beyond the boundaries of conventional sound design.

Moog Sub 37 Sound Quality

With the Moog Sub 37, immersive richness, tonal depth, and nuanced warmth take the center stage, thus crowning the sonic capabilities of this accentuated piece.

When diving into the sound quality of the Sub 37, it’s essential to note that it’s a delightfully fat sounding synth. The Sub 37 reigns supremely with its dual oscillator design in conjunction with a noise generator, which pushes the sonic quality into the stratosphere. The variable wave shapes offered on both oscillators provide a vast array of tonal variations; downright sine and triangle waves for soft, melodic applications to the harmonically rich saw and square shapes for intense lead, bass, or effect patches.

The filter section elaborates on the sonic capabilities of oscillators. It features a classic Moog Ladder Filter with selectable slopes. Fully resonant, the filter can self-oscillate, contributing greatly to the available sonic texture. Coupled with envelopes for both filter and amplitude, the oscillators can be sculpted into slow-evolving ambient soundscape, snappy basslines, or aggressive leads.

A unique feature in the Sub 37’s sound engine is the paraphonic mode. This unique feature allows two oscillators to play independently, thus enabling the playing of two-note chords. It’s a massive selling point for musicians looking to introduce polyphony’s perception within an otherwise monophonic structure.

Next comes the feedback circuit and multi-drive section of the Sub 37. The feedback infuses the synth with a raw, vintage vibe while the multi-drive elucidates a new array of distorted, crunched tones, pushing the synth into more aggressive territories.

From a subtle purr to a wild roar, the Sub 37 will not only yield extremely versatile sonic results but will also provide a euphonious and bodies sound that’s uniquely Moog.

Delving into the Sub 37, one can’t help but appreciate the timeless, characteristic “Moog” sound – a legacy of unparalleled warmth, depth, and richness.

The attention to detail in the sound department is a testament to Moog’s commitment to delivering top-tier products that embody their legacy while continually pushing into uncharted territories. In essence, the Sub 37 presents an experiential journey where musicians are supported in exploring and pushing the boundaries of their sonic pallet, with no compromise on quality, depth, and warmth.

This level of robustness and completeness so elegantly packaged in the Sub 37 makes it a compelling choice for both studio productions and live performances alike.

Moog Sub 37 Connectivity and Integration

One of the striking features of the Moog Sub 37 is its broad range of connectivity options. The Sub 37 sports a 5-pin DIN MIDI in, out, and through which allows it to connect and communicate with a myriad of music production equipment. This versatility enhances not only its usability but also the potential to create a dynamic music modulation setup.

Adding to this, the Moog Sub 37 offers USB MIDI connectivity. This inclusion makes it incredibly convenient to connect with DAWs, software editors, or any USB-supporting devices to send MIDI data seamlessly. A distinguishing feature in the contemporary world of synthesizers.

Moreover, the Sub 37 covers analog connectivity grounds with its CV/Gate Outputs, essentially allowing you to interface with a multitude of other gear including vintage analog synths and modular rigs. These CV/Gate outputs extend the command and bring possibilities of achieving much more complex sounds, adding both depth and flexibility to your music.

Though traditionally a synth might be cast as a studio instrument, the Sub 37 successfully crosses the bridge into the live performance realm. When integrated into live performance rigs, the ability to tweak sounds in real-time, combined with the excellent connectivity options, empowers performers to create spellbinding shows. The Sub 37 fits right into modern live setups, whether it’s part of a DJ rig or forming the heart of an electronic jam band.

On the studio front, it syncs up beautifully with other musical tools in the arsenal of a producer. The wealth of connectivity options allows it to become the centerpiece of your music production setup, interfacing effortlessly with other synth modules, DAWs, and production software.

All in all, the vast array of connectivity options on the Moog Sub 37 broadens its potential, allowing it to integrate seamlessly into a variety of musical settings. Whether you’re a bedroom producer or a touring musician, this synth has capabilities that cater to your artistic needs while providing optimal flexibility. It’s more than just a synthesizer—it’s your way into unexplored corners of sound and endless creative playgrounds.

Moog Sub 37 User Interface and Usability

When talking about a synthesizer, especially one as feature-packed as the Moog Sub 37, understanding the user interface and ease of usability is crucial.

User Interface: The Sub 37 sports a generous layout with 40 knobs and 74 switches. These provide an immediate, real-time access to the Sub 37’s full sound engine. Beyond straight forward sound shaping, the front panel interface offers a multitude of controls perfect for deep editing, sequencing, and live performance. The display is small, yet effective – it is legible and does not overwhelm the user with information, showing only what is necessary at any given time.

• Dedicated buttons for key modes and operations, such as ‘preset’, ‘bank’, ‘rec’, and ‘play/stop’.
• Clear, accessible knobs and switches for vital features such as oscillators, LFOs, mixer, filters and envelopes.

Usability: The Moog Sub 37 carries a balance between complexity and intuitiveness.

• Beginners can dive right in, start twiddling knobs and get pleasing results. The one-knob-per-function approach to the synth design shows its benefit here. New users can freely experiment and understand the functionality of each control in real-time, making the learning process less daunting, and more fun.

• Experienced synthesists will appreciate the agility offered by the Sub 37. With the plentiful real-time controls, the Sub 37 invites immediate, expressive tweaking and dynamic sound design. You can shift your tone from thick and gritty to smooth and creamy within seconds, so whether you’re in a studio or on stage, you’ll appreciate its immediacy.

The Sub 37 is highly programmable with 256 presets that cover a wide sonic territory and allow for storage and recall of your favourite sound configurations.

Overall, The Moog Sub 37 combines the best of immediate, tactile control with deep, intricate programmability that many synths only dream of. It acknowledges that it is not merely a studio object, but a live performance instrument. From warm analogue basses, piercing leads, to atmospheric soundscapes, the user interface and usability of the Sub 37 invite both newbies and experienced hands to explore its potential. Consider this a playground of sonic possibilities, where your creativity is the only real limit.

Moog Sub 37 Software Editor and Additional Features

The Sub 37 comes with an intuitive and user-friendly software editor/librarian that’s compatible with both Mac and Windows platforms. It fundamentally opens up another door of possibilities for sound manipulation on the Sub 37.

• The software editor provides a visual interface for interacting with the synthesizer — what you see is indeed what you get. From waveform selection to intricate filter modulation adjustments, practically every parameter can be seamlessly tweaked through this software.

• Every tweak done on the software editor is mirrored on the Sub 37 and vice versa. This bi-directional communication fosters a meticulous design process allowing musicians to fine-tune their sounds with surgical precision.

• The software’s built-in librarian is worth noting too. It offers a holistic space to manage, organize, and store your patches. This grants an easy navigation system even for those dealing with an extensive library of patches.

Diving into additional built-in features, the Sub 37 does a splendid job of combining nostalgic sonic backbones with modern functionality.

• The ‘Arpeggiator ‘ function offers a wealth of options from standard up/down arpeggios to more esoteric, pattern-based variations. This robust system provides ample options for layering rhythmic complexity into melodies.

• The Sub 37 also touts a ‘Sequencer ‘ for creating repeated rhythmic patterns or triggering pitched sequences, using the keys and step-editing functionalities. This proves invaluable for those interested in exploring various melody lines.

• The ‘Under-the-hood ‘ settings build on the surface controls, delving into secondary functionalities for a more detailed refinement of sounds. Features such as filter poles, legato glide, and note priority can all be adjusted, reinforcing the overall versatility.

In a nutshell, the Moog Sub 37 extends beyond its hardware confines. It offers a comprehensive software component enhancing the user experience and, moreover, features like the arpeggiator and sequencer, which breathe life and dynamism into any production. The bread-and-butter functions meld with the extras, making the Sub 37 a robust instrument of modern musical craftsmanship. This, along with its traditional analog flair, allows for a beautiful marriage of old and new.

Moog Sub 37 Pros and Cons

An evaluation of Moog Sub 37 wouldn’t be complete without an assessment of its advantages and disadvantages, providing an all-rounded view. Let’s plunge into an overview of the Sub 37’s strengths and weaknesses.

Pros:

• Strong Analog Character: The Sub 37 houses a robust, hearty and vintage sound, inherent to the Moog brand that fans and users know and appreciate. The quality of sound generation on this synthesizer is genuinely commendable.
• Versatile Modulation Options: With a multitude of modulation options available, this synthesizer facilitates the generation of varied and complex timbres. Hence, the Sub 37 can easily cater to a wide range of musical needs.
• Integrative Design: The Sub 37’s configuration and control layout is undeniably intuitive, making it user-friendly. This feature stands out, especially when one is navigating through the device in a live setting.
• Detailed Software Editor/Librarian: The software editor that accompanies the Sub 37 greatly simplifies the process of sound creation and storage. By providing a visual interface, it encourages exploration and deep understanding of the synth’s capabilities.

Cons:

• Weight: Perhaps a noticeable downside of the Sub 37 is its substantial weight. This means that transporting it can be challenging, particularly when used for live performances.
• Price: Although the synth comes packed with impressive features, it’s undeniable that the cost is on the steep side. Its price point may deter beginners or hobbyists, looking for a more budget-friendly entry point into the world of Moog.
• Learning Curve: While enhanced functionality means richer sounds and deeper control, it also indicates that there’s a significant learning curve that beginners will face.

The summation of the Sub 37’s pros and cons, when juxtaposed with its price tag, reveals that it’s an investment piece. Granted, the cost might be a barrier of entry for some, but for those keen on longevity, robustness, and innovativeness in their sound generation, the Moog Sub 37 stands out as a worthy contender.

The synthesizer’s strengths certainly warrant further consideration, particularly when weighed against its downsides. Each element serves a purpose, functioning collectively to make the Sub 37 a potent tool for sound creation and manipulation. It’s indeed a promising tool for those who dare to explore the depth of sound, with a touch of vintage antiquity.

Comparisons with Other Synths

When discussing the Moog Sub 37, it’s impossible to not draw comparisons to other Moog synthesizers, as well as competitors within a similar price and functionality range.

Within the Moog family, the Sub Phatty , another favorite amongst synth enthusiasts, comes to mind. Both share inimitable Moog sound quality, but the Sub 37 outdoes its sibling with features like an arpeggiator, sequencer and duo-mode, along with a more generous set of 37 keys, as opposed to the Sub Phatty’s 25.

Meanwhile, an external competitor, the Dave Smith Instruments ‘ Prophet 08 provides an intriguing comparison on warrant of features and price tag. While the Prophet 08 can boast of eight voices to the Sub 37’s duo-mode, the Moog instrument has that unique rich, creamy and distinctive Moog sound which sets it apart.

Beyond these specific comparisons, one can line up the Sub 37 against various synthesizers in its tier. Some points to consider in such comparisons are:

• Sound quality : The Sub 37 has an unmistakable Moog tone, revered across the synth world for its warm, fat sounds. Other synthesizers may offer more versatility or polyphony, but few can match Moog’s unique sonic signature.
• Knob-per-function Interface : The Sub 37 boasts an intuitive design where nearly all of its functionality is accessible directly from the interface, making sound design a tactile and engaging experience.
• Paraphonic capability : The Sub 37’s ‘duo mode’ makes it a standout in this range, offering more expansive sound design options.

In essence, the Moog Sub 37 holds its own remarkably well against competitors. Its unique blend of classic, rich Moog tones, paired with modern features and a versatile, hands-on interface, make it a standout choice for those looking to invest in a sturdy, reliable, and sonically impressive synth. While comparison is useful, the decision will ultimately rest on the individual needs and preferences of the musician. For those who value quality, character, and a harmonious blend of vintage and modern, the Sub 37 is a strong contender.

Final Verdict

We’ve examined the design, features, sound and connectivity of the Moog Sub 37. We’ve taken this synthesizer to the test and it’s time to deliver our final verdict.

A True Victor in the Synth Arena
The Moog Sub 37 showcases its prowess as an exceptional analog synthesizer. With its dual oscillators, expressive filter, and inimitable Moog sound, it skillfully blends richness, warmth, and depth that is both reminiscent of vintage synths and indicative of modern capability.

Paraphonic Power
It’s worth noting the Sub 37’s unique paraphonic mode. The ability to play two notes simultaneously gives rise to creative potential and sonic flexibility that is hard to find in monophonic synths at this price point.

User Friendly
The interface of the Sub 37 stands out with its one-knob-per-function design. This leads to a more intuitive and immediate control, making it an appeal for live performers and studio wizards alike. Plus, the integration into modern setups is relatively painless, thanks to its diverse connectivity options.

The Moog Experience, But at a Price
However, the Sub 37 doesn’t come cheap. It’s a significant investment but, in our opinion, you’re not just buying a synthesizer. You’re investing in a piece of Moog history, a premium build, phenomenal sound, and an instrument that serves both as a stepping stone for beginners and a reliable addition for seasoned professionals.

To Buy or Not to Buy?
Is the Moog Sub 37 for everyone? Probably not. But for those searching for a classically rooted, yet modernly functional synth that delivers remarkable sound, the Sub 37 is worth considering. However, you may have to overcome its learning curve and high price point. Yet, once these hurdles are crossed, the Sub 37 could very well be the synth you’ve been yearning for.

Remember, the perfect synth is one that complements your music, techniques, and individual taste. All in all, the Moog Sub 37 is a powerful beast that gracefully carries Moog’s legacy forward into the realm of modern music production.