The Ultimate Guide to Minimoog VST Emulations (2025)

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The Minimoog Model D is more than just a synthesizer; it’s the undisputed gold standard for analog sound. Introduced in 1970, it was the first portable synth, defining the sound of bass and lead across Funk (Bernie Worrell), Progressive Rock (Keith Emerson), and Hip-Hop (Dr. Dre). Its legendary 3 VCOs and distinctive 24 dB Moog Ladder Filter are the reasons producers worldwide still demand its massive, warm tone.

Fortunately, the complex analog circuits of the original can now be replicated perfectly in software. This ultimate guide breaks down the best Minimoog VST emulations of 2025, helping you choose which virtual Model D best fits your studio needs.

1. Arturia Mini V: The Modern Classic

A long-standing favorite, Arturia’s Mini V enhances the classic sound for modern workflows. It includes features like polyphony and effects, making this Minimoog VST a complete sound design workstation.

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2. Native Instruments Monark: The Purist’s Benchmark

Widely regarded as the benchmark for raw sonic authenticity, Monark forgoes extra features to focus on being the most accurate software recreation of the Model D possible.

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3. Synapse Audio The Legend: A Detailed Circuit-Level Moog Emulation

A top contender for the most accurate Moog emulation, The Legend meticulously models every circuit, even offering “Early” and “Late” hardware revisions, plus tasteful enhancements like polyphony.

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4. Softube Model 72: The Integrated Modular System

The Model 72 from Softube is a perfect emulation of a 1972 Model D and also offers its components as separate modules for use within Softube’s wider ecosystem.

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5. GForce Minimonsta 2: The Sound Design Powerhouse

This is the Minimoog on steroids. Minimonsta 2 adds a massive feature set, including extensive polyphony and a unique preset morphing system, aimed at experimental sound designers.

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6. UAD Minimoog Model D: The Officially Endorsed Recreation

Developed in partnership with Moog, this UAD emulation carries the official seal of approval and is famed for its obsessive attention to circuit detail. It is now available to run natively without UAD hardware.

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7. Cherry Audio Miniverse: The Unbeatable Value

Cherry Audio’s Miniverse delivers a highly accurate and CPU-efficient emulation of the Model D, complete with polyphonic capabilities. It offers arguably the best value for money for a Minimoog VST.

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8. AIR Music Technology Mini D: The Simple Workhorse

A solid and reliable workhorse from AIR Music Technology. It delivers all the classic functions of the original, adds 4-voice polyphony, and includes a handy built-in effects section.

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9. UVI Ultra Mini: The Sample-Synth Hybrid

UVI’s Ultra Mini uses high-quality samples of a real Minimoog’s oscillators as its sound source, which are then run through digital filters and effects.

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10. IK Multimedia Minimod: The Hybrid Sound Workstation

Part of the Syntronik 2 suite, Minimod is a hybrid instrument built on samples of the Minimoog Model D and Moog Voyager. It uses IK’s DRIFT technology to add realistic analog variation.

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Final Summary: Choosing Your Philosophy

The legendary sound of the Minimoog Model D is more accessible than ever. The best software choice depends entirely on the creator’s objective:

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