Best Aftertouch Synthesizer Keyboards of 2025

Joseph Hubbard Avatar
Joseph Hubbard
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

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Aftertouch synthesizer keyboards are a popular choice for musicians and producers who want to add an extra layer of expression to their music. These keyboards allow the player to apply pressure to the keys after they have been pressed down, which can affect the sound in a variety of ways. This can include adding vibrato, changing the filter cutoff, or modulating the pitch. Aftertouch keyboards can be found on a variety of synthesizers, from vintage analog models to modern digital ones. They are a powerful tool for adding depth and nuance to any performance or recording.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Korg Nautilus AT 88 Synthesizer Cover #TOP 1
Korg Nautilus AT 88 Synthesizer
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Korg Nautilus AT 61 Synthesizer Cover #TOP 2
Korg Nautilus AT 61 Synthesizer
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Korg Nautilus 61 Synthesizer Workstation Cover #TOP 3
Korg Nautilus 61 Synthesizer Workstation
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Aftertouch Synthesizer Keyboards

#TOP 1

Korg Nautilus AT 88 Synthesizer

AT 88
Korg Nautilus AT 88 Synthesizer Cover
Korg Nautilus AT 88 Synthesizer Workstation with Aftertouch - Limited-edition Gray

The Korg Nautilus AT 88 is a powerful synthesizer workstation designed to enhance your musical creativity. With its 88-key RH-3 keybed featuring aftertouch, you can play expressively, adding depth to your performances. The dynamic polyphony allocation ensures you can play complex chords without missing a note, making it perfect for intricate compositions. Smooth sound transition allows you to switch between sounds seamlessly, which is essential during live performances. Additionally, the 16-track MIDI sequencer enables you to record and layer your musical ideas easily, providing a comprehensive toolset for both beginners and seasoned musicians.

What We Like
Expressive aftertouch keys
Dynamic polyphony allocation
Smooth sound transitions
16-track MIDI sequencer
#TOP 2

Korg Nautilus AT 61 Synthesizer

NAUTILUS61ATGR
Korg Nautilus AT 61 Synthesizer Cover
Korg Nautilus AT 61 Synthesizer Workstation with Aftertouch - Limited-edition Gray

The Korg Nautilus Synthesizer is a versatile 61-key workstation designed for musicians of all levels. Its light-touch keybed with aftertouch allows you to expressively control your sound, making performances more dynamic. With dynamic polyphony allocation, you can play complex chords and sounds without worrying about note dropouts. Smooth sound transition ensures that your music flows seamlessly, enhancing the listening experience. Additionally, the 16-track MIDI sequencer provides you with the tools to create intricate compositions, giving you the freedom to experiment and innovate in your music-making process.

What We Like
Light-touch keybed with aftertouch
Dynamic polyphony allocation
Smooth sound transition
16-track MIDI sequencer
#TOP 3

Korg Nautilus 61 Synthesizer Workstation

PSG Audio
Nautilus 61
Korg Nautilus 61 Synthesizer Workstation Cover
Korg Nautilus 61 at Synthesizer Workstation with Aftertouch, Keyboard Stand, Bench, Sustain Pedal, Presonus HD9 Bundle

The Korg Nautilus 61 is a versatile synthesizer workstation designed to enhance your musical creativity. Featuring aftertouch, this keyboard allows you to add expressive nuances to your playing, making your performances more dynamic. The included keyboard stand provides stability and comfort, ensuring you can play for hours without discomfort. A bench is also part of the package, giving you a comfortable seating option while you create music. The sustain pedal adds depth to your sound, allowing notes to resonate longer. With the HD9 headphones, you can enjoy high-quality sound without disturbing others, making it ideal for practice or recording.

What We Like
Expressive aftertouch feature
Comfortable keyboard stand
Includes seating bench
Sustain pedal for enhanced sound
High-quality HD9 headphones

Roland FANTOM-8

FANTOM-8
Black
88 Keys
Roland FANTOM-8 Cover
Roland FANTOM-8 Music Workstation 88-key Semi-weighted Synthesizer Keyboard

The Roland FANTOM-8 Keyboard is an 88-key semi-weighted synthesizer that offers a seamless workflow and a wide range of authentic electronic and acoustic sounds. With its acclaimed 88-note weighted keyboard and aftertouch, you can enjoy a realistic playing experience with expressive control. The expandable sound engine allows you to create fresh hybrid sounds by combining modern PCM, virtual analog, and a routable analog filter. Additionally, the V-piano technology provides stunning realism and expression. The FANTOM-8 Keyboard also comes with a limited edition T-shirt and product registration for added value. Whether you're a professional musician or an aspiring artist, this keyboard is designed to enhance your creativity and deliver exceptional performance.

What We Like
Seamless workflow
Authentic electronic and acoustic sounds
Realistic playing experience
#TOP 5

Nord Wave 2 Synthesizer

Nord
NWAVE2
Nord Wave 2 Synthesizer Cover
Nord USA, 61-Key Wave 2 4-Part Performance Synthesizer, with Virtual Analog Synthesis, Samples, FM and Wavetable

The Nord Wave 2 Synthesizer is a 61-key powerful 4-part performance synthesizer that combines virtual analog synthesis, samples, FM and wavetable with an intuitive layer-focused interface. It offers 48 voice polyphony, innovative performance features, hands-on controls, and advanced layering and tweaking on the fly. With 1 GB memory for Nord Sample Library 3.0, OLED displays for program and oscillator sections, 61-note keyboard with aftertouch, and dimensions of 39" x 12" x 4"; 20 lbs, this synthesizer provides outstanding sonic possibilities for any musician.

What We Like
Powerful 4-part performance synthesizer
Combines virtual analog synthesis, samples, FM and wavetable
Innovative performance features and hands-on controls

AKAI Professional MPC Key 61

MPC Key 61
Black
MPC Key 61
AKAI Professional MPC Key 61 Cover
AKAI Professional MPC Key 61 - Standalone Music Production Synthesizer Keyboard with Touch Screen, 16 Drum Pads, 20+ Sound Engines, Semi Weighted Keys, black

The AKAI Professional MPC Key 61 is a standalone music production synthesizer keyboard with a 7” multi-touch display, 16 MPC pads, semi-weighted keys, and assignable Touch Strip. It features 20+ sound engines and over 6000 customizable sounds, making it the most modern-day sound pallet ever programmed in a production synthesizer. With high-speed data transfer via USB and network, as well as wireless software integration via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ableton Link, the MPC Key 61 is the centerpiece of your recording studio.

What We Like
Standalone music production synthesizer keyboard with a 7” multi-touch display, 16 MPC pads, semi-weighted keys, and assignable Touch Strip
20+ sound engines and over 6000 customizable sounds, making it the most modern-day sound pallet ever programmed in a production synthesizer
High-speed data transfer via USB and network, as well as wireless software integration via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ableton Link

MOOG Subsequent 37 Synthesizer

LPS-SUB-006-06
black
37 Keys
MOOG Subsequent 37 Synthesizer Cover
MOOG Subsequent 37 Paraphonic Analog Synthesizer and MIDI Keyboard with 37 Semi Weighted Keys, Headphone Amp, 256 Presets, Screen and Software Editor

The MOOG Sub 37 Synthesizer packs a punch with 40 knobs and 74 switches for ultimate sound control. Its 2-note paraphonic keybed with 37 semi-weighted keys, velocity, and aftertouch, along with 256 presets, offers enhanced playability. With 2 Variable Waveshape Oscillators, 1 Sub Oscillator, and an Analog Noise Generator, you have multiple sound sources at your fingertips. The 2 Modulation busses with programmable routing allow for complex tonal possibilities, while the MIDI In/Out/USB and other connections ensure seamless integration into your setup.

What We Like
Powerful Sound Control
Enhanced Playability
Multitude of Sound Sources
#TOP 8

Kurzweil PC4-7 Synth Workstation

Kurzweil
AMS-PC4-7
Black
Kurzweil PC4-7 Synth Workstation Cover
Kurzweil PC4-7 76-key Synthesizer Workstation

The Kurzweil PC4-7 Synth Workstation is a versatile 76-key controller and synthesizer with aftertouch-enabled semi-weighted keys. With the Native V.A.S.T. Editing, you have extensive sound customization at your fingertips. Enjoy a massive 256-voice polyphony for rich, layered sounds. Dive into intricate sound design with the 6-operator FM Engine. Create complex musical arrangements effortlessly using the built-in 16-track sequencer. The Kurzweil PC4-7 Synth is your all-in-one solution for expressive performances and creative music production.

What We Like
Versatile 76-key controller
Extensive sound customization
256-voice polyphony
#TOP 9

AKAI MPC Key 37 Workstation

MPCKEY37XEUK
AKAI MPC Key 37 Workstation Cover
AKAI Professional MPC Key 37 Standalone Production Workstation, Drum Machine, MIDI Keyboard, Synthesizer with WiFi, Bluetooth, Touchscreen, Plug-ins

The AKAI MPC Key 37 is a versatile standalone music production workstation that allows you to create without needing a computer. With its powerful multi-core processor and 37-note synth-action keybed, you can easily produce music on-the-go. The inclusion of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth MIDI means you can connect effortlessly to other devices and software. Plus, with the MPC2 software supporting up to 128 audio tracks, you have the flexibility to use nearly unlimited plugin instruments. This makes it an essential tool for anyone looking to enhance their music-making experience.

What We Like
Standalone operation
Multiple connectivity options
Supports numerous plugins
Touchscreen interface
#TOP 10

Roland Fantom 6 Synthesizer Bundle

FANTOM-6
Black
Roland Fantom 6 Synthesizer Bundle Cover
Roland Fantom 6 Synthesizer Keyboard Bundle with Sustain Pedal, Instructional DVD, Online Piano Lessons, and Austin Bazaar Polishing Cloth

The Roland Fantom 6 Bundle is designed for musicians seeking versatility and ease of use. Its 61-note semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch allows for expressive playing, making it perfect for both electronic and acoustic sounds. You’ll enjoy a smooth workflow without the hassle of confusing modes, enabling you to focus on your creativity. The expandable sound engine gives you access to a wide range of authentic sounds, while the innovative hybrid sounds blend modern PCM with virtual analog technology, enhancing your music production experience. This bundle also includes essential accessories to get you started right away.

What We Like
Expressive semi-weighted keys
Easy-to-use workflow
Expandable sound engine
Hybrid sound capabilities
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is aftertouch on a synthesizer?

The aftertouch feature allows keyboard players to change the tone or sound of a note after it is struck, the way that singers, wind players, or bowed instrument players can do.

2. What synths have polyphonic aftertouch?

New Hydrasynth Pairs Massively Deep Sound Engine With Polyphonic Aftertouch. Ashun Sound Machines (ASM) has announced the Hydrasynth, a new hardware synth that offers a massively deep and flexible sound engine and unique performance controls, including polyphonic aftertouch and a four-octave ribbon controller.

3. Is aftertouch needed?

So, to emulate a real piano with samples on your controller, aftertouch is not needed. It's velocity that's important here. Some real clavichords can use aftertouch technique, where the extra pressure on the key can produce a very gentle pitch vibrato.

Editor's Notes

During our aftertouch synthesizer keyboard research, we found 24 aftertouch synthesizer keyboard products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,131 customer reviews through our big data system to write the aftertouch synthesizer keyboards list. We found that most customers choose aftertouch synthesizer keyboards with an average price of $2,733.80.

The aftertouch synthesizer keyboards are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of aftertouch synthesizer keyboards, including Korg, PSG Audio, Roland, Nord, AKAI. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 507 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Joseph Hubbard Avatar

Joseph Hubbard is a music producer and runs a musical instrument store in Chicago. Joseph is happy to help others choose the instrument that best suits their needs. He loves everything related to music and often publishes articles related to music on key websites.