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Synth
Synapse Audio Legend HZ
Synapse Audio · €179
The Legend HZ is an analog-modeled software synthesizer by Synapse Audio, developed with composer Hans Zimmer, emulating a classic vintage hardware synth.
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GreatThe Dubspot verdict
A meticulously modeled Minimoog Model D with a Hans Zimmer-tuned feature set that pushes it well past a straight clone, held back only by a premium price.
Best for: Producers and composers who want the definitive fat analog monosynth sound plus polyphony, a sequencer, and modern modulation in one plugin.
Pros
- Exceptionally authentic, three-dimensional Minimoog-style tone
- Adds polyphony, a 32-step sequencer, and MSEG modulation
- 8x oversampling with efficient CPU use and Apple Silicon support
- MPE and NKS integration for expressive, hardware-controlled play
Cons
- Pricey at €179 versus cheaper Minimoog emulations
- Narrow scope: one classic synth voiced beautifully, not a Swiss-army synth
- Signature Zimmer presets can overshadow its versatility as a workhorse
The Legend HZ is Synapse Audio's flagship recreation of the Minimoog Model D, built in close collaboration with composer Hans Zimmer. At its core sits one of the most convincing virtual-analog emulations on the market. Six oscillators, an 8x-oversampled engine, and carefully modeled filter behavior combine to deliver the thick, slightly unstable, three-dimensional character that made the original a legend. Basses land with authority, leads cut cleanly, and the analog drift feels alive rather than sampled.
Where it separates from a straightforward clone is the modern feature set layered on top. The classic three-oscillator monosynth expands into 4-, 8-, and 12-voice polyphony, so the same tone that anchors a bassline can just as easily voice lush pads and chord stabs. A 32-step sequencer, a full modulation matrix, and MSEG shapes push it into territory the hardware never reached, while MPE and NKS support make it responsive to expressive controllers and Native Instruments hardware. It excels at deep, cinematic sound design without abandoning the immediacy that Moog-style synths are known for.
The trade-off is scope and price. At €179 it costs more than most rival Minimoog emulations, and it remains, by design, a focused instrument built around one iconic voice rather than a do-everything synth. The 200 factory presets lean heavily on Zimmer's cinematic signature, which is inspiring but can obscure how versatile the raw engine actually is.
Against its alternatives, it aims higher than Arturia's Mini V and generally sounds more refined, though the Mini V is far cheaper and bundled with V Collection. Cherry Audio's ANA 2 is more affordable and flexible but less authentic, while the Prophet-5 V targets a different classic entirely. Choose the Legend HZ when tonal accuracy and expanded playability justify the spend. A free trial makes the decision low-risk.
Specifications
- Oscillators
- 6 high-quality VA oscillators
- Polyphony modes
- Unison, Mono, 4-, 8- and 12-voice
- Engine
- 8x oversampled
- Factory presets
- 200
- Sequencer / modulation
- 32-step sequencer, modulation matrix, MSEG
- Compatibility
- MPE and NKS support; native Apple Silicon (M1-M4)
Last verified 2026-06-18
FAQ
What plugin formats and operating systems does The Legend HZ support?
It runs as VST 2, VST 3, or AAX on Windows 7 SP1 or later, and as VST 3, Audio Unit, or AAX on macOS 10.14 or later, with native Apple Silicon (M1-M4) support.
Is there a free trial available?
Yes. Synapse Audio offers free trial downloads for both PC and Mac on the official product page.
How many presets are included?
The Legend HZ ships with 200 factory presets.