MOOG MEMORYMOOG

Mr Moog has retained many of the characteristics of the legendary MiniMoog (1971 design) in the Memorymoog, and it is capable of some stunningly powerful sounds due to its three oscillators per voice (giving a blood curdling 18 oscillators in the 'Unison' mode). It's not easy to control, however, nor is it too stable. Are you man/woman enough for a Memorymoog? By the way, be careful if you're buying second hand, earlier models (pre '84) aren't fitted with MIDI.

YAMAHA DX-1

The most digital FM currently available in one package, the DX-1 is basically two DX-7s combined in a very sophisticated, flexible package. Though it is more complex it is simpler to use with vastly superior displays and controls. The arrival of the DX-5 has largely upstaged the very much more expensive DX-1 so that its main advantages are now its weighted wooden action keyboard and its individually articulated touch response. The sounds themselves are identical, and in fact can be achieved with two DX-7s or a DX-7 and a TX-7. You'll have to have a few bob hanging about to warrant buying this one.