The 20 Great Synthwave Plugins 2025 (Paid & Free)

Top 20 Plugins For Synthwave & Chillwave Music 224

1. ujam Usynth 2080

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Quite obviously referencing a futuristic style of sound, the ujam Usynth 2080 is a dedicated Synthwave instrument.

The Usynth series is a new series of instruments that offer an easy, intuitive way to design sounds and perform live. It comes in three flavors: Usynth 2080, Caramel, and Euphoria.

Here, the Caramel helps you create ambient soundscapes easily, whereas the Euphoria is dedicated to synth sounds for electronic dance music, including plucks, powerful leads, organs, arpeggios, FX, etc.

However, this review is for the Usynth 2080, which provides a collection of retro-sounding synth sounds with an easy-to-learn user interface. It features built-in patterns and effect processors to help you create polished sounds as fast as possible.

The “Surprise” button is a helpful randomization tool that creates unexpected results with a single click.

Key Features:

• Synthesizer Modes
• Sequencer
• Finisher
• Fundamental Effects

Compatibility:

Usynth 2080 is available for Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.14 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2 and AU formats.

Summary:

While Usynth 2080 may look like a beginner’s plugin on the surface, the sound quality and effectiveness prove otherwise. I prefer thinking of ujam’s easy-to-learn designs as timesavers. In most cases, you’d spend hours on a sound only to create what the developers have already designed for you.

You’ll find every type of sound, from synth pads and keys to leads, plucks, and sound effects. And the sequencer presets alongside the Finisher modes help you compose and polish a song rapidly. So, if you wish to make Synthwave or Chillwave music, try this plugin out and see if it saves you time and effort (spoiler: it does!).

2. ujam Beatmaker Vice

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UJAM Vice is a drum machine dedicated to making beats for retro genres like Synthwave and Chillwave.

Vice is a part of the brand’s Beatmaker bundle, a collection of beat-making plugins that prioritize intuitiveness. You can also find the bundle featured on my best plugin bundle list. The bundle provides several plugins like Vice, each dedicated to a specific genre.

Vice comes with ten retro-sounding drum kits. Similarly, it features built-in loops, fills, and grooves that help you create your drum patterns quickly.

Furthermore, some parameters allow you to make basic mix adjustments and add effects to change the sound rather impressively.

While the minimalistic user interface may look like a beginner’s tool on the surface, advanced users will appreciate the speed at which it delivers results.

Key Features:

• Library
• Perform
• DAW Integration
• Mix

Compatibility:

Vice is available for Windows 8 or higher and macOS 10.11 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

UJAM’s Beatmaker series is a lifesaver if you have trouble making drum patterns, and Vice is proof of that. Similarly, its high-quality sound is a fantastic addition to an experienced user’s arsenal.

And if you are looking to make Synthwave and Chillwave music for a film or game, Vice will help you ensure that the drums aren’t the reason for you to dread deadlines.

3. Arturia Modular V

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Explore the roots of modular synthesis with this emulation of a renowned hardware synth.

Arturia’s Modular V is based on a vintage mid-60s synth called Moog Model 55 with independent modules and patching cables. It was a revolutionary two-voice polyphonic modular synth that allowed musicians to explore worlds of synthetic sounds when most synths were monophonic.

Notable users in the 60s included The Doors, The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Wendy Carlos, etc., and Tangerine Dream, Emerson Lake, and Palmer, etc., in the 70s.

The software iteration by Arturia adds some modern features to the original design, making the synth better fit contemporary needs. These include formant filtering, a 64-voice polyphony, a ring modulator, and presets, of course.

However, the user interface is similar to the original design with virtual wires and modules.

 

Key Features:

• Versatile Generators
• Built-In Effects
• Authentic Filters
• Sequencer

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.11 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

As tedious as hardware modular synths were, nothing compares to the tactile feel of creating custom sounds by turning knobs and patching cables. Modular V offers the same experience but with a modern approach.

You can create presets of new sounds or basic patches that get you started. Furthermore, it has a built-in library with over 600 presets, including basic subtractive synth-style sounds to sound designing marvels.

The sequence presets are ideal for Synthwave and Chillwave music, and the excellent emulation of Moog’s sound makes the experience even better. The only critic I have is about its large user interface that might cover your screen if you aren’t using a high-resolution monitor.

Although, the design is important to retain the original hardware’s appearance.

4. Wavesfactory Cassette

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Experience the cassette tape era all over again, except you won’t need a pencil to rewind this time.

Wavesfactory Cassette is a tape saturation and emulation plugin modeled after a high-end tape machine. On top of the authentic sound, Cassette showcases a vivid tape player design on its user interface.

It features multiple tape types and player models, which can help you nail the exact vibe you’re after, from high-end studio sound to a humble portable recorder.

Since Synthwave and Chillwave are essentially futuristic music from the 80s, it only makes sense to utilize the Lo-Fi sound of cassettes.

Drums, in particular, tend to favor the smooth, warm sound of tapes, and synth pads can feel like they’re  “drifting” due to hysteresis and tape warbling.

These are essential qualities of authentic Chillwave music. And Cassette allows you to control the exact amount of each element that gives the tape effect. Let’s have a look at its features.

Key Features:

• Tape Types
• Machine Types
• Tape Erasure
• Stability
• Noise & Artifacts

Compatibility:

Wavesfactory Cassette is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.7 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Cassette is a highly effective tape emulation and saturation plugin. Hence, you’ll find the plugin enlisted on our best saturation plugins list too. It has an undeniably gorgeous user interface that displays your track name and a realistic model of your selected tape type.

Similarly, in addition to the features mentioned above, the plugin features many more on the settings page. For example, you can add intermodulation, crosstalk (channel bleed), a delay between the stereo channels, etc.

Moreover, the Spread knob on the main interface lets you change your audio’s stereo width. Overall, if you want the warm, analog sound of the 80s, Cassette is hard to beat.

5. Arturia Jup-8 V

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Arturia’s take on this classic synthesizer is sure to take you back in time when the change from analog to digital was the most evident in the history of music.

The esteemed manufacturer Roland introduced the Jupiter 8 synthesizer in early 1981. So, you could say it pretty much kickstarted the 80s sound. Arturia’s Jup-8 V plugin aims to recreate the same synth in great detail.

And I must say it’s quite a wild success, both sonically and visually. It has a thick, powerful sound and every ounce of the original synth’s versatility.

The plugin uses component-level modeling and sampling to deliver all of the controls in the original hardware. Furthermore, Jup-8 V modernizes the classic with added quirks and features.

Go beyond the antique limitations with multiple LFOs, better modulation, contemporary sequencing, effects, and 16-voice polyphony.

Key Features:

• Dual VCOs
• Filters
• Modulators
• Arpeggiator & Sequencer
• Effect Processors

Compatibility:

Arturia Jup-8 V is available for Windows 8.1 or higher and macOS 10.13 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Roland Jupiter 8 is one of the most important synthesizers of the 80s. It shaped the sound of many hit albums and even films. So, the excellent emulation in Arturia’s Jup-8 V allows you to bring classic sounds to your DAW instantly.

Furthermore, it features many modern additions like unison, more modulation possibilities, sequencer, etc. Similarly, the “note dispersion” feature emulates the subtle changes that voltage fluctuations in the synthesizer’s components bring.

It helps make the plugin sound even closer to the original hardware.

6. ujam Beatmaker CIRCUITS

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Ujam Beatmaker CIRCUITS is a virtual instrument designed to emulate the sound and style of classic analog drum machines.

The plugin features a user-friendly interface, making creating and customizing drum patterns easy. The drum machine includes ten drum kits covering various genres, including electronic, industrial, and hip-hop. Each kit contains 16 drum sounds that can be edited and manipulated to create unique drum patterns.

Key Features:

• Drum fx
• Humanize your drums
• Genre fluidity
• Cool Presets
• Intuitional & attractive GUI
• Easy programming

Compatibility:

7. Beatskillz Sequel

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Beatskillz Sequel is a sample-based drum machine presenting vintage sounds and modern sequencing features.

The warm drum sound from the 80s drum machines is an essential factor in a Synthwave or a Chillwave song.

And while you might find a Synthwave song with modern-sounding electronic drums, Chillwave tends to stick to vintage sounds, whether by using authentic samples or Lo-Fi sound processing. This plugin helps you avoid extra steps in your drum production.

Beatskillz Sequel is a sampling drum machine employing a large library of famous 80s drum machines. There are over a hundred drum kits in the plugin’s library.

And you’ll hear these sounds on almost every hit electronic/pop music from the 80s, not to mention the many Synthwave, Lo-Fi, or hip-hop albums made nowadays. Let’s check out some of its features.

Key Features:

• Library (600+ drum sounds and over 150 patterns and fills)
• Sample Editing
• Turn Back Time
• Multi-Out
• Sequencer

Compatibility:

Beatskillz Sequel is available for Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.14 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

If you don’t already own a sample pack of drums and MIDI patterns, Sequel’s comprehensive library will provide you with plenty to use in your Synthwave or Chillwave song. It provides enough controls to help you customize the sound but stays straightforward.

So, it’s an ideal drum instrument for both beginners and experienced producers. Furthermore, the step sequencer with per-step pitch, note length, and velocity editing provides much more control than the standard sequencers in hardware drum machines.

And while there are no effect processors built-in, the multi-out feature lets you mix your drums with any effect plugin you want.

8. Pulsar Audio 1178

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Full Review

This plugin is a FET compressor modeled after the original hardware of the same name, but it offers many twists along the way.

The Pulsar 1178 is an emulation of the esteemed Urei 1178, a stereo version of the better-known Urei 1176 mono compressor. Thanks to the FET (Field Effect Transistor) design, the hardware is known for its punchy and aggressive sound.

Many hit records have used this compressor on everything from bass, vocals, snares, etc. Hence, the Pulsar 1178 brings the classic sound to your studio with modern tweaks to ease the workflow.

As you can see from the screenshot below, the user interface is super sleek and modern. While most emulations tend to maintain the traditional design and limitations of the hardware, Pulsar has gone the opposite route.

You’ll find a sleek sidechain EQ, an alternative saturation stage, and a mix knob in addition to the revered tone of the hardware.

Key Features:

• Stereo Processing
• One Ratio Or All
• Sidechain EQ
• Saturation

Compatibility:

Pulsar Audio Pulsar 1178 is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.10 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

With so many added idiosyncrasies and features like individual controls per channel, mid/side mode, and sidechain EQ, the Pulsar 1178 compressor gives even the most hardcore purists a reason to own an emulation plugin.

Many people prefer the sound of the 1176 compressor over 1178 for its transformer saturation. If you are one of them, Pulsar 1178 should be highly tantalizing for its saturation stage with four types of saturation, including transformer.

Furthermore, high-quality oversampling avoids any high-order harmonic distortion, a trait dreaded by Class A output fans.

9. E-Phonic Invader 2

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Invader 2 is a polyphonic synthesizer that works and sounds similar to many hardware synths but maintains modern ease of use.

The foundation of the Synthwave and Chillwave genre is classic, subtractive synthesizers. You’ll likely use them for pads, bass, keys, arpeggios, and melody. Invader 2 is one of the most intuitive analog modeling synthesizers with a high-quality sound and resizable user interface.

It provides a straightforward single-page workflow and all the fundamental tools you need to create polished synth sounds without tweaking too many parameters.

Besides the sound design possibilities, Invader 2 provides over two hundred highly usable presets. From dramatic, evolving synth pads to melodious sequence patterns, the preset library features everything.

Similarly, the HQ button at the top right of the UI enables and disables 4x oversampling mode, which helps remove any aliasing the synthesizer has generated.

Key Features:

• Dual Oscillators
• Filter
• Modulation
• Unison
• Mixer & Effects
• Arpeggiator/Sequencer

Compatibility:

Invader 2 is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.13 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 3 and AU formats.

Summary:

As you can see, despite the simple user interface, Invader 2 provides an incredible number of features. Furthermore, it sounds crisp and way higher quality than what its humble pay-what-you-want pricing scheme would have you believe.

You can even add Drift at the top of the interface to make the synth have fluctuations that you’d hear on a hardware synthesizer. As soon as I fired up the plugin and listened to its presets, I spent an hour just playing it!

So, I’m confident the presets will inspire you as well. Invader 2 could be the ultimate bang for your buck if you don’t already own an analog-style synth.

10. Arturia SQ80 V

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This plugin complements the analog rave of the 1980s with digital complexity and flexibility.

Arturia SQ80 V is based on the Ensoniq SQ-80 CrossWave synthesizer, released in the late-80s around 1987. It was a build-up on the classic ESQ-1 synth with more waveforms, an enhanced sequencer, and preset storage.

And it was a far easier synth to program when digital synths were infamous for being challenging. Generally, musicians used the synth to create digital organs, sound effects, pads, and even analog-type sounds.

It offered multi-sampled transient attack waveforms like a violin bow, plectrum picks, mallets, breath, percussion, and hammer. Such samples led to the hybridization of acoustic sounds with digital synthesis.

Arturia’s take on this vintage marvel offers even more waveforms, an easier workflow, and other idiosyncrasies that only make the synth better.

One of the biggest changes is the 16-voice polyphony instead of merely eight. Similarly, Arturia SQ80 V employs an eight-voice unison option, which helps create enormous sounds and immersive pads.

Key Features:

• Powerful Oscillators
• CEM 3379 Filter
• Modulation
• Arpeggiator
• Mix Ready

Compatibility:

Arturia SQ80 V is available for Windows 8.1 or higher and macOS 10.13 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

If you want more creative freedom than what an analog synth offers but still want to retain the vintage vibe, Arturia SQ80 V could be the ideal synth for you.

It comes with digital oscillators that combine multiple waveforms, analog filter, output stage, and modern modulators and effect processors.

Furthermore, the sound designing process is easy to understand, which is a feature that sets the original hardware apart from other digital synthesizers. And if you don’t want to bother creating custom patches, you can use the built-in collection of 160 presets.

These include everything from exquisite, ethereal pads, punchy retro bass, and analog-style powerful brass sounds.

11. United Plugins Retronaut

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Key Features:

• Multi-voice modulation engine
• Lo-fi effects
• Diverge Section
• More Than Modulation
• Interesting stereo effects
• Virtual Analog Filters

Compatibility:

The United Plugins software plugins are compatible with Mac and Windows PCs and support AAX Native, VST2, VST3, and AU formats. The minimum system requirements for using the plugins are a display resolution of 1440 × 900px or 1280 × 960px or higher and a minimum of 2GB RAM.

Summary:

12. discoDSP – OB-Xd

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One of the most iconic hardware synthesizers in history is reborn with modern features in software form.

As the name suggests, discoDSP’s OB-Xd is modeled after a real Oberheim OB-X synthesizer. It emulates the sound and personality of the original.

However, as with any software interpretation of classic synths, you’ll find some added features and quirks. All of them are quite handy and enhance the user experience.

The Oberheim OB-X synth was beloved for many classic sounds you hear on hit records from the 80s. For example, I’m a fan of its triangle lead sound with glide. Similarly, you can create awesome pad sounds with its individual voice pan controls.

And thanks to the slight detuning effect that occurs randomly, the synth sounds convincingly analog and dynamic.

Key Features:

• Dual Oscillators
• Multi-Mode Filter
• Further Controls

Compatibility:

discoDSP OB-Xd is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Any hardware synth fan will appreciate the revitalization of the iconic Oberheim OB-X synth. And the new features in the software iteration make OB-Xd much more flexible, making it feel better suited for contemporary uses.

Of course, without built-in effects, the synth sounds unashamedly raw. However, you’ll find its sound on par with or better than any modern synth with a little mixing. You can use this synth to create bass sounds, massive pads, and even plucky arpeggio sounds for Synthwave and Chillwave music.

And if you want the authentic vibe, avoid adding chorus and instead let the rawness of the synth seep through.

13. u-he Repro 1

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Repro 1 is u-he’s take on the esteemed Prophet 5 synth’s monophonic counterpart featuring component-level modeling.

After releasing Diva, an acclaimed analog modeling synth, u-he turned their eyes on the Sequential Circuits’ hit synthesizers from the 1980s: the Prophet 5 and Prophet Pro One.

The resulting plugins were the Repro bundle, including two synths: Repro 5 and Repro 1. Repro 5 is an eight-voice polyphonic synth, whereas Repro 1 is proudly monophonic.

The main user interface of Repro 1 resembles the Pro One synth, especially how the parameters are laid out. Although, you’ll undoubtedly find plenty of modern changes introduced by u-he.

The fundamentals of the synth are fairly basic, which is expectable from a synth designed nearly four decades ago. However, exciting features like Tweaks and Sequencer, not to mention a collection of presets, help make the synth as relevant as ever.

Key Features:

• Multi-mode Oscillators
• Filter & Modulation
• Arpeggio & Sequencer
• Tweaks
• Stomp-Boxes

Compatibility:

U-he Repro 1 is available for Windows 7 or higher, macOS 10.9 or higher, and Linux, all 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats. Note that macOS AAX is temporarily unavailable at the time of writing.

Summary:

If you’re a fan of the Pro One synthesizer, u-he’s Repro 1 is pretty much the best emulation yet and probably in the future too.

It truly digs deep into the components of the synth to unearth every nuance and quirks the original hardware has while adding contemporary features like a comprehensive sequencer page, in-depth control over the sound, and high-quality effect processors.

Sure, it may not have the same flexibility as modern software synths. However, when it comes to creating mono leads, bass, and arpeggio patterns, Repro 1’s delightfully rich sounds might just come out on top for you.

14. Waves Retro Fi

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Waves Retro Fi is a Lo-Fi plugin that helps you age your music and make it sound retro or even vintage.

Lo-Fi plugins emulate various old hardware players and samplers; common themes include vinyl records and tape. It adds a nostalgic value to your music. Among the many excellent Lo-Fi plugins that offer specialized audio processing, Waves Retro Fi is one that provides multiple kinds of processing to add versatility.

You can use this plugin to make modern instruments like synths or drum samples sound vintage. And while it’s not really a thing in Synthwave or Chillwave music, you can also make your instruments sound like you sampled them from old recordings, best suited for hip-hop, trap, and Lo-Fi music.

The plugin features four modules, each with a different purpose. Let’s check out each in brief.

Key Features:

• Device
• Space
• Noise
• Mechanics

Compatibility:

Waves Retro Fi is available for Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.14.6 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Waves Retro Fi is a unique Lo-Fi plugin that employs impulse responses to recreate the sound of many eras of music production and playback gear. It provides only the crucial parameters, making it easy to use for beginners and snappy for expert users. A reverb/delay section is also available.

So, it’s a good Lo-Fi plugin if you are after a versatile all-in-one. Although, you won’t find standard features like bit reduction and digital quantization in this plugin.

15. TAL Software TAL-U-No-LX

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Complementing the Jupiter 8 emulation on my list is the TAL-U-No-LX, providing incredibly authentic analog sounds.

As you probably guessed by its name, this plugin is an emulation of the Roland JUNO 60 polyphonic synthesizer. It’s essentially a younger sibling of the Jupiter 8 and came with a more streamlined interface.

TAL-U-No-LX sports a user interface that appears similar to the original design but has noticeably gone under some reordering alongside added features.

The plugin features detailed character emulation alongside carefully calibrated controls. So, you can essentially dial in preset patches from your old JUNO 60 preset book and get near-identical results, making the TAL-U-No-LX an excellent counterpart or even replacement for the original hardware.

Furthermore, added idiosyncrasies like portamento and filter LFO waveforms push the ambition of this beloved synth even more.

Key Features:

• Oscillator
• Filters
• Modulation
• Arpeggiator
• Effects

Compatibility:

TTAL U-No-LX By TAL Software is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.9 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

TAL-U-No-LX is a 12-voice iteration of the Roland JUNO 60, and it’s incredible how close they sound to each other. It comes with over three hundred factory presets and includes the original Factory Bank A patch library.

Furthermore, the synth supports micro-tuning, MPE, and parameter automation, allowing a world of exploration for contemporary music producers.

If you’ve been looking for a replica of the JUNO 60 synthesizer in software form, the TAL-U-No-LX plugin is undoubtedly one of, if not the best.

16. u-He Diva

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When you want the distinct analog sound but don’t want to be restricted to hardware emulation plugins, u-he Diva is the way to go.

Most analog plugins are hardware emulations rather than being their own thing. So, Diva seeks to offer a new way to get analog warmth in your synth sounds by providing multiple types of components alongside a full-featured subtractive synth engine.

It provides standard features you’d find in a general synthesizer plus menus for detailed modifications.

When making Synthwave and Chillwave, you need analog-sounding synths to generate sounds from the 80s. And Diva is one of the few synths that sound very authentic while offering a variety of sounds.

So, you make it sound similar to many iconic synthesizers from the retro era with some tweaking.

Key Features:

• Sound Generators
• Filter
• Modulation & Effects
• More Features

Compatibility:

U-he Diva is available for Windows 7 or higher, macOS 10.9 or higher, and Linux, all 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats. Note that macOS AAX is temporarily unavailable at the time of writing.

Summary:

Diva has far too many exciting features to cover in a short review like this. However, what I’ve enlisted above probably gave you an idea of how vast yet minimal this synth can become. Furthermore, it comes with over 1,200 presets, a treasure hoard of inspiring sounds.

Similarly, it has a host-syncing arpeggiator with real-time rate offset, swing, and multiple progression options. Over everything else, though, my favorite thing about Diva is how natural and beautiful it sounds.

So, whether you’re a beatmaker, electronic music producer, film score composer, or band player, Diva can become your go-to analog software synth no matter which hardware model you want. And it’s one of the best choices for Synthwave and Chillwave production.

17. Arturia Jun-6 Chorus

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Introduce the iconic, rich character of the Roland JUNO 6 synthesizer in your tracks.

We’ve seen Arturia create in-depth emulations of hardware synthesizers and the JUN-6 V emulated Roland JUNO 6 polyphonic synthesizer. That classic synthesizer happened to have one of the most beloved massive stereo richness, thanks to its chorus effect. You’ll find a similar chorus effect in the JUNO 60 and even the Jupiter 8 synth.

So, it’s no surprise that Arturia provides the chorus effect as a separate plugin. You could use this plugin with a regular software synth to add some Roland spice to the mix.

Similarly, it’s wonderful for widening a mono input like an electric guitar or vocals. And best of all, the plugin is insanely easy to learn and use.

Key Features:

• I, II, Or Both
• Manual

Compatibility:

Chorus JUN-6 is available for Windows 8.1 or higher and macOS 10.13 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

If you are looking for a simple chorus effect that sounds excellent, Arturia’s Chorus JUN-6 could be an excellent choice. It doesn’t offer an overwhelming number of controls, and the presets are very usable. Moreover, it’s effective and suitable for many kinds of sounds, including synths, keyboards, vocals, and guitars.

18. Synapse-Audio Obsession

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Let’s take a look at Synapse Audio’s take on the classic Oberheim OB-Xa synthesizer.

We’ve checked out an emulation plugin of the Oberheim OB-X synth, which was the first synth released in 1979 in this series. Conversely, Oberheim OB-Xa was a newer version released in 1981.

It utilized Custis CEM IC generators making it sound contrastingly smoother compared to the raw and wild personality of the OB-X, which used the SEM module instead.

Obsession by Synapse Audio brings the powerful polyphonic vintage synthesizer to your music studio with modern features added to it. It features detailed per-voice controls that no other synth provides. The feature is useful for creating rich, dynamic sound.

Furthermore, the temperature-dependent fluctuations you find on the original hardware are also simulated using the Organic knob. The result is an impressively authentic experience alongside jaw-dropping sound quality.

Key Features:

• Three Modes
• Sound Engine
• Filter Section
• Modulation
• Voice Edit
• Back Panel

Compatibility:

Synapse Audio Obsession is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.11 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Obsession is undoubtedly one of the most powerful virtual analog synths available today. Synapse Audio has convincingly captured the sound and personality of the Oberheim OB-Xa synthesizer while still maintaining a noticeably modern interpretation.

The front panel provides everything you’d expect from a standard virtual analog synth, including two oscillators, a filter, two LFOs, and two envelopes. It has a very warm and fat tone, especially with the VCA Sat button on the back panel switched on, which enables the amplifier’s saturation.

And the Organic control helps simulate the unstable nature of analog components. If you want only one virtual analog synth, Obsession could be the ideal choice.

19. Valhalla Delay

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This plugin is one of the most popular delay plugins available, thanks to its no-nonsense user interface and excellent quality.

Anyone who’s searched for a reverb or delay plugin has surely come across Valhalla’s lineup of products. They have created one other delay-like effect called the free FreqEcho, which is a frequency-based delay plugin.

As with a few other Valhalla products, this delay plugin provides you with multiple modes that process the sound with different signal chains. One of these modes includes a tape emulation. Hence, Valhalla Delay could be considered a tape delay, too, except it has much more to offer.

Such features make it an ideal choice for modern genres like Synthwave and Chillwave that constantly require a variety, even in everyday plugins like delay and reverb.

Key Features:

• Modes
• Intuitive Interface
• Styles

Compatibility:

Valhalla Delay is available for Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.8 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

The biggest selling point of this delay plugin is its flexibility through simplicity. Instead of providing you with a large number of controls and parameters, it provides the fundamental ones alongside fourteen modes.

The modes change their internal configuration and signal chain to provide interesting features like pitch shift, tape emulation, saturation, artifacts, etc. Generally, such effects would be difficult to create without a specialized plugin. So, you’re essentially buying fourteen delay plugins for the price of one!

20. Relab Development LX480

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Get convenient access to the same luscious space of a classic hardware reverb used in many hit albums.

The esteemed Lexicon 480L digital reverb has long been a secret weapon of many artists worldwide. It is almost the standard of reverb processing. Initially introduced in 1986, the famous hardware has been used in multiple chart-topping recordings by artists like John Lennon, Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, U2, Stevie Wonder, etc.

The plugin provides many of the algorithms from the original hardware in an intuitive and familiar user interface. Whether you’re looking for a lush, lingering hall for a string section or a bright plate reverb to make the snare slam a little harder, the LX480 Complete delivers.

Furthermore, it features many presets that help you get started as soon as you have opened the plugin.

Key Features:

• Algorithms

Hall

This algorithm emulates the effect of reverberation in real concert halls. So, it works best for acoustic instruments to glue multiple instruments together. It provides early reflections and reverb controls.

Plate

The Plate algorithm is designed to sound like a traditional plate reverb. These are commonly used on percussive sounds because they have a high initial diffusion and a vivid, colored tail compared to other algorithms. Plate reverb frequently acts as if it were a part of the music itself, thickening and mellowing the original recording.

Room

As opposed to the Hall algorithm, the Room method simulates smaller spaces. It’s a sound employed in almost every aspect of music creation and video post-production.

Twin Delays

As the name suggests, this algorithm uses two stereo delay processors. It uses filtered feedback on both channels to generate a long reverb tail. Furthermore, cross-panning between the two channels helps create a wide stereo image.

Random Hall

The Random Hall algorithm has a smoother nature, making it excellent for material that needs a massive space simulation or a lengthy reverb. It has a model similar to the Hall algorithm but with random decay components and less metallic ringing.

RHall HD

This algorithm is the same concept as the previous one. However, it provides a more sophisticated design of reverb, thanks to the higher processing power of the CPU nowadays. Changes include greater density, an advanced echo system, better low-frequency reverb, and more stable stereo imaging.

Ambiance

While other models add a distinct signal for the reverb, this algorithm provides a natural-sounding space to the audio without being intrusive. So, it’s ideal for adding a room effect to recorded music or speech. For example, it can add a convincing room ambiance to a studio-recorded dialog.

• Dual Engine
• Massive Library of Presets

Compatibility:

This plugin runs in macOS 10.9 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST, AU, and AAX plugin formats.

Summary:

An excellent translation of a classic, ready to be used in your DAW and improve your mix. The design is very true to its vintage form, and so are the configurations present.

Be it in the presets or the modes, the level of attention to detail is impressive. It’s just as good as the actual unit would’ve been and much easier to acquire and maintain.

11 Best Free Plugins For Synthwave & Chillwave Music 

1. TheWaveWarden Odin 2

More Info & Download

Odin 2 is a free polyphonic synthesizer that provides modern flexibility while maintaining the design and feel of analog hardware.

That said, this plugin is by no means only an analog emulation. Instead, it provides a wide variety of oscillator types along with multiple modulators, effect processors, a full-fledged modulation matrix, etc.

Furthermore, it uses a semi-modular design to make the synth clutter-free and lightweight. The plugin also features an XY-pad that makes performing live easy.

For a Synthwave or Chillwave music production, you can design every melodic and harmonic element of the genres in Odin 2.

It can create lush pads, grand leads, dark arpeggio plucks, deep bass, sound effects, etc. However, if you want to create authentic retro music, try mostly sticking to the analog oscillators.

Key Features:

• Streamlined UI
• Oscillators

Odin 2 features three slots for the oscillators. Click on the arrow on the oscillator slot to open the list of oscillator types available. These include the following:

Analog Osc

This oscillator emulates the sound of classic analog synths. It offers saw, square, triangle, and sine waveform shapes. Likewise, it has a drift knob to simulate analog fluctuations.

Wavetable Osc

This oscillator allows you to create evolving sounds, which feature more than one waveform. There are thirty-five wavetables in total, and each consists of four waves. The WT-Position knob sweeps through these four waves.

Multi Osc

This oscillator is four oscillators put together in one. You can sweep through them using the WT-Position parameter, and the WT-Spread knob changes the position of each of the four waveforms.

Vector Osc

This oscillator loads four waveforms and allows you to sweep through them using an XY-pad. It’s an intuitive version of the Wavetable Osc with four dimensions instead of only two.

Chiptune Osc

As you’d expect, this oscillator emulates the sound of a 4-bit sound chip you find on vintage gaming consoles. Some examples of such consoles are Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and Nintendo Gameboy. The oscillator features a built-in arpeggiator.

FM Osc

The FM Osc allows you to utilize FM synthesis. It comes with two oscillators: the carrier and the modulator. The modulator modulates the carrier, and the sound changes. It’s a complex process that is best done by using your ear.

PM Osc

This is the phase modulating oscillator, which involves modulating the phase of a carrier oscillator using a modulator. It’s similar to the FM oscillator but produces a different sound. You can also use an oscillator waveform from a Draw Osc, which we’ll get to in a moment.

Noise Osc

This oscillator generates white noise. It features a high-pass and low-pass filter, which are handy for creating sweeps and risers without using a filter module.

WaveDraw & ChipDraw Osc

These two are similar types of oscillators. Essentially, they let you draw a custom waveform using your mouse/pen. The difference is that WaveDraw has a higher resolution than ChipDraw, the lack of which gives the chiptune-style oscillator its distinct sound.

SpecDraw Osc

Finally, the SpecDraw Osc is an additive oscillator. It uses bands of sine waves to generate various kinds of waveforms. So, this oscillator allows you to draw in the harmonics/sinewaves to create your unique waveform shape.

• Triple Filters
• Modulation
• Sequencer
• Mixing

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for Windows Vista or higher, macOS 10.11 or higher, and Linux, all of them 64-bit only. It comes in VST 3, AU, and LV2 formats.

Summary:

By now, you probably understand how vast an instrument Odin 2 is. It features three oscillators (11 types), three filters (9 types), four envelopes, four LFOs, a nine-slot modulation matrix, and five effect processors.

Furthermore, it lets you create variations on many parameters per voice, instead of only globally as most other synths do. Incredibly, such a powerful synth is available for free. There could be no better time to make music!

2. MaxSynths DR-910 Drum Machine

More Info & Download

This plugin is an emulation of the well-known TR-909 drum machine by Roland.

After the highly successful TR-707 and TR-808 drum machines, Roland introduced the TR-909 in 1983. It was the first Roland drum machine to use samples for some sounds. Furthermore, it also employed MIDI, which allowed it to sync with other MIDI devices. Despite the groundbreaking updates, the hardware failed to achieve as big a success as its predecessors.

Still, it has become an influential part of modern music history. Hence, the DR-910 drum machine plugin seeks to emulate the sound of the iconic instrument in software form.

Each section of the plugin is designed after the original hardware, from appearance to sound. Furthermore, it adds a few extra features to help aid production.

Key Features:

• Eight Instruments
• Effect Processors
• Multi-Outs

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for Windows XP or higher, 32-bit only. It comes in VST 2 format.

Summary:

The Roland TR-909 was an iconic drum machine used by many artists like Jean Michel Jarre, Moby, The Prodigy, Faithless, etc. And since Synthwave and Chillwave genres are all about using the sounds of the 80s, it makes sense to have the DR-910 plugin handy.

It’s unfortunate that the plugin is 32-bit. However, most modern DAWs offer 32-bit compatibility. So, it should run smoothly.

3. Pianovintage 707

More Info & Download

Let your music have a little retro vibe with this iconic drum machine.

As the name mentions, Pianovintage 707 is a sampled instrument based on the Roland TR-707. It features sixteen samples and provides basic controls over the sound with some effect processors. It’s a straightforward plugin that should make sense at a glance.

Key Features:

• Sampled Recordings
• Controls

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for Windows XP or higher, 32-bit only. It comes in VST 2 format.

Summary:

Pianovintage 707 is abashedly primitive as a virtual instrument. In all senses and purposes, the plugin merely puts a user interface on the samples, which helps keep your workflow smooth and organized. However, if you already own the samples of Roland TR-707, you could skip this plugin without missing much.

4. TAL-U-No-62

More Info & Download

TAL-U-NO-62 is one of the most famous free vintage analog synth plugins, much loved for classic yet high-quality sound.

As the name suggests, not at all subtly, TAL-U-NO-62 is an emulation of the Roland JUNO 60 synthesizer. It provides a minimalistic user interface encompassing all of the controls necessary in an analog synth. You’ll find one oscillator with a sub-oscillator and noise generator.

And the Juno-style chorus will provide the tell-tale sound of many hits from the mid and late-80s.

TAL-U-NO-62’s sound is most suitable for creating pad and arpeggio sounds. For example, create a short, plucky saw sound, add some sub oscillator sound and a low-pass filter, and change the filter envelope.

Next, write some arpeggio sequences in the piano roll or use a MIDI sequencer plugin. You’ll instantly find yourself taken to a retro-future with neon colors.

Key Features:

• DCO
• Filters
• Modulation
• Authentic Chorus

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10 or higher, both 32-bit only. It comes in VST 2 and AU formats.

Summary:

TAL-U-NO-62 is a polyphonic analog software synthesizer that uses a real Roland JUNO 60 for reference. The filters provide a unique sound with an envelope and LFO modulation. Furthermore, you can invert the envelope shape in the filter section to get creative results.

Similarly, since the filter is an analog-modeled design, you can automate it and still get ultra-smooth results. Overall, this plugin is an excellent download for anyone enthusiastic about hardware synthesizers.

5. Cymatics Origin (LoFi, Saturation, Chorus)

More Info & Download

Origin is a Lo-Fi plugin that makes your audio recordings sound like they were sampled from an antique tape recorder or vinyl player.

The plugin sports an elegant user interface with straightforward controls. It uses multiple processors based on vintage hardware to provide an authentic experience. You could use this plugin on contemporary synth sounds, vocals, drums, and other instruments to make them sound more retro. Let’s have a look at the different parts of this plugin:

Key Features:

• Resampler
• Saturation & Sample
• Movement
• JUNO Chorus

Compatibility:

Origin is available for Windows 10 or higher 32-bit and 64-bit and macOS 10 or higher 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Origin is an excellent choice when you want a straightforward plugin that lets you age your audio samples. It rocks a beautiful user interface, which is always a plus. And the effects are quite convincing. I’d recommend downloading it for the JUNO Chorus and Movement effects alone.

6. GSI Varispeed Copicat IC400

More Info & Download

This plugin is an emulation of an early tape echo machine without any enhancements or changes.

Built with a DC belt-driven motor, the Watkins IC400 Copicat echo machine is more commonly known as the Varispeed. And the reason for that is rather obvious: the motor speed can be adjusted, allowing for an endless range in echo delay durations within the motor’s limitations.

It featured three replay heads that “read” what the real-time recording head “wrote” on a tape that the DC motor spun around.

GSI Varispeed Copicat IC400 emulates the same machine as it is. It even has a very similar user interface design with animated tapes, making it a fun plugin to work with. Let’s have a look at its features:

Key Features:

• Tape-Stop
• Tone Controls
• Other Controls

Compatibility:

GSI Varispeed Copic at IC400 is available for Windows 7 or higher, macOS 10.11 or higher, and Linux Ubuntu 20.04.1 or higher, all of them 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3 and AU formats.

Summary:

This plugin is a truly vintage-sounding echo effect. It creates tiny fluctuations in speed and pitch to emulate the sound of tape, not to mention the tonal characteristics caused by the tape heads.

You can use it for general delay effect purposes or creative results when you automate its parameters. For example, dialing up the Repeat results in a type of “frozen” sound, where you can control the pitch of the audio by increasing the Varispeed knob. And you can produce gated effects on such results if you automate the Swell knob.

7. Caelum Audio Cassette

More Info & Download

Tape Cassette 2 is a free audio plugin that replicates the flavor and sounds of vintage cassette tapes, complete with an impulse response activation option for added realism.

Cassette tapes offer a distinct warmth,loudness, and personality that has a type of cult following. You can get all of that and more with Tape Cassette 2. The plugin features saturation, noise, wow, and flutter engines for processing. First, an input saturation stage gives any audio fed into it a distinctive warmth.

Similarly, a low pass filter simulates a dirty cassette tape head with oxide and dust. The lower you go, the dirtier the head becomes.

Then, the noise parameter generates a genuine tape noise sample. The wow and flutter emulations give movement and variations to your audio, including the noise. And finally, an “IR” toggle switch enables an impulse response of a cassette tape.

The result is a convincing cassette tape-style warmth, character, and tone. You can use this plugin to add an analog appeal to contemporary software synths and samplers.

Key Features:

• Tape Saturation
• Impulse Response
• Oversampling

Compatibility:

Tape Cassette 2 is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.11 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 3, AU, and AAX formats. It is also available for iOS 11 or higher for iPad.

Summary:

Tape Cassette 2 is a free version of a paid product called Tape Pro, which offers twelve types of tape machine emulations. So, the sound quality of Tape Cassette 2 is top-notch and convincing.

It has an excellent, resizable user interface, and the high oversampling modes provide pristine quality. And despite the fairly limited number of controls, it offers enough features to make it very usable.

You can use this plugin to age your final music, create convincing sampled sound, and saturate vocals, drums, keys, and bass.

8. Valhalla Supermassive (Reverb/Delay)

More Info & Download

Bring colossal-sounding rich reverb, grand delays, and incredible sonic spaces to your mixes with this plugin.

With a relatively small set of controls, Supermassive delivers incredibly enormous effects. Of course, every delay plugin should include standard controls, but this plugin also features Warp and Modes.

Warp modifies the duration of the delay feedbacks, transforming the effect from basic echoes to lush reverbs.

Listening to your delay effect diffused and modified into a reverb is a rewarding experience, which is what makes Supermassive so beloved. In a Synthwave or Chillwave music production, I recommend Supermassive on the pads and the arpeggio synth.

The latter would highly benefit from lush spaces, whereas synth pads should only have a gentle touch to enhance their stereo width.

Key Features:

• Multiple Algorithms
• More Massive
• Convenient
• Built-In Presets

Compatibility:

Supermassive is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.8 or higher, 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Supermassive is a worthy contender regardless of whether you’re comparing it with free reverb/delay plugins or paid ones. It offers a variety of sounds, thanks to its multiple modes.

And the convenient user interface makes it suitable for both beginners and experienced users. Even if you prefer other reverb or delay plugins for general mixing, Supermassive is undoubtedly useful when it comes to designing sound effects.

9. Analog Obsession NOS Bundle

More Info & Download

The NOS Bundle comes with three classic plugin emulations from a vintage era.

It features a preamp, a compressor, and a passive equalizer. All of these plugins impart some character and saturation similar to hardware gear.

Hence, you’ll find a 4x oversampling feature when you click on the Analog Obsession logo on the plugins’ user interfaces. This option removes any aliasing that might arise from the saturation.

You can use these plugins to add an analog personality to your modern instruments or audio recordings. So, if you were using the Serum synth, for example, the preamp and EQ from this bundle would lend it warmth. It makes digital instruments sound less lifeless while not being as intrusive as a tape emulator.

Key Features:

• Tuba
• TuPRE
• Kolin

Compatibility:

The plugins are available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.9 or higher, both 64-bit only. They come in VST 2/3 and AU formats.

Summary:

Analog Obsession has been creating vintage gear emulations and custom analog effect plugins for a while now, and the NOS Bundle showcases their quality well.

It offers a preamp, a vari-mu compressor, and a passive EQ, each with a distinct character and personality. Both electric and acoustic instruments benefit from these plugins.

10. Analog Obsession BritBundle

More Info & Download

This bundle emulates the sound of classic British audio gear responsible for many sensational records.

The BritBundle comes with three plugins, including an EQ, a preamp, and a compressor. These are all based on the designs by Rupert Neve. And Analog Obsession’s emulations are undoubtedly some of the best, especially considering they are free. So, I highly recommend getting these to add analog tones to your recordings.

Key Features:

• Britpressor
• BritPre
• BritChannel

Compatibility:

The plugins are available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.9 or higher, both 64-bit only. They come in VST 2/3 and AU formats.

Summary:

Rupert Neve’s designs have remained a standard in music technology for decades. And Analog Obsession’s plugins provide excellent emulations of the famous gear for free.

Furthermore, since the plugins utilize saturation, you can activate a 4x oversampling feature by clicking on the Analog Obsession logo on the user interface.

11. Surge XT

More Info & Download

Surge XT is one of the most powerful free digital synths available today, even surpassing many paid synths.

Surge XT is a free and open-source hybrid synthesizer, meaning the code is open to everyone with a knack for programming. Hence, it provides a large number of features developed by many people. It comes with 2,779 factory patches and 614 wavetables for you to explore. The latest user interface update with a dark mode and resizable UI has made Surge a visual eye-candy too.

For Synthwave and Chillwave music producers, Surge provides sophisticated sound generators, built-in effect processors, and an advanced but intuitive modulation system. However, it doesn’t feature an arpeggiator (yet). Still, the synth is way too awesome to pass for something you can add using your DAW!

Key Features:

• Scenes
• Subtractive Hybrid Oscillators

Each scene in Surge features three oscillators. And each oscillator provides twelve powerful algorithms, changing the behavior of the oscillator entirely. These include the following:

Classic

The classic oscillator algorithm consists of a subtractive oscillator that can generate a pulse wave, a sawtooth wave, a dual-saw wave, or anything in between. It also features a sub-oscillator generating a pulse-wave an octave below the primary oscillator. This oscillator is ideal for emulating analog-style sounds.

Modern

This algorithm is similar to the classic version, except it generates low-aliasing waveforms with unison and sub-oscillator capabilities.

Wavetable

A wavetable oscillator features many waveforms in one oscillator. Surge XT provides up to 4,096 single-cycle waveforms per oscillator, making it possible to easily create ultra-smooth sweeps or dramatic changes.

Window

The window oscillator is similar to the wavetable synthesis, but it differs in key ways. Instead of changing a waveform itself, it multiplies the waveform using another waveform (the wavetable). This method results in dramatic timbre changes.

Sine

This oscillator generates a sine wave (very surprising!) and its variants. It’s helpful for creating 808-style bass quickly and bell-like sounds.

FM2 & FM3

These oscillators use frequency modulation to generate sound. Each oscillator features one carrier, which is the sound we hear, being modulated by either two (FM2) or three (FM3) modulators.

String

The string oscillator uses physical modeling to generate string-like sounds. It can emulate both plucked and bowed strings.

Twist

This oscillator provides an emulation of a famous Eurorack macro-oscillator designed by Émilie Gillet. It is slightly more CPU-intensive than the other algorithms.

Alias

This oscillator deliberately generates aliasing signals. So, it sounds extremely digital and features an 8-bit mask to generate chip-tune sounds.

S&H Noise

Sample & Hold Noise oscillator generates a variety of noises ranging from white noise to bright pulse waves.

Audio Input

This oscillator allows you to route external audio into Surge XT. This feature is useful for applying Surge XT’s processors to external audio. Similarly, you can use it to route audio from Scene A to Scene B.

• Filters
• Modulation
• Effects

Compatibility:

Surge XT is available for Windows 7 or higher, macOS 10.11 or higher, and Linux, all of them 64-bit only. It comes in VST 3 and AU formats.

Summary:

Surge XT is probably the most powerful free synth currently available. Sure, there are other options like Vital, but there are way too many features in Surge XT to take it lightly.

I haven’t described many of its other features like MPE support to avoid an overly long review. So, regardless of the kind of music you make, I suggest downloading Surge XT with your eyes closed – you won’t regret it!

Top 3 Kontakt Libraries For Synthwave

1. Native Instruments Analog Dreams V2

More Info & Price

Analog Dreams is a Kontakt library for vintage synths and keys.

It sounds warm, aesthetic, modern, and huge, and it has some incredible sounds inspired by the 80s and 70s synth wave. The plugin’s workflow is simple, having two sound layers: A and B, and eight MACRO knobs. You can edit each layer individually, change its pitch, transpose it, tune it, pan it, add color, and apply filters and modulations.

Key Features:

• Filter

The plugin allows you to select the cutoff frequency, resonance, and key track. In addition, you can select different filter algorithms, whether low pass, high pass, band pass, etc., and their variations.

• Modulations

The plugin allows you to add modulations using two LFOs, one MOD envelope, one AMP envelope, velocity, aftertouch, and the modwheel. The modulation process is easy and intuitive, with responsive controls.

• Effects

You can add multiple effects like EQ, Bus compressor, limiter, and more. You can go within the effects and change their settings to fit your sound and the color you want to add to the sound.

• Sequencer

The sequencer window lets you edit the rate, swing, and steps and select a key (the root note and the scale). In addition, you can adjust the movement of the sequencer and its amount.

Compatibility:

Analog Dreams is compatible with the free Kontakt version and requires a minimum of Kontakt 6.1 and 3.6 GB of hard disk space.

Summary:

Analog Dreams is a part of the Play Series by Native Instruments and has 100 presets and 150 sounds, with preset categories like Bass, FX, Lead, Pads, Plucked, etc. Overall the interface is pretty, streamlined, and highly tweakable. The sounds in the library are perfect for creating modern pop, EDM, R&B, Dance, and hip-hop music.

2. Splash Sound Retrowave

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

As the name suggests, Retrowave is a dedicated sample library for Synthwave and Chillwave music production.

The library features samples of over a dozen vintage synthesizers and drum machines, resulting in a total size of 12 GB.

It offers preset sounds specifically made for futuristic retro music and minimalistic controls. So, it is suitable for both beginners and advanced users. Let’s take a look at it in more detail:

Key Features:

• Sound Collection

The library employs esteemed hardware instruments like Yamaha DX7, Roland Jupiter 8, Ensoniq Mirage, Roland JUNO-106, Roland D-50, LinnDrum, Elektron Machinedrum, etc. The collection exceeds over eight thousand samples and includes 105 instruments: 22 leads, 24 basses, 19 pads, 25 plucks, 11 keys, and 4 drum kits.

• Authentic

Since Retrowave is a sampled library, you can expect fully authentic sound straight from the hardware sources. It doesn’t use programmed algorithms to emulate oscillators and fluctuations. Instead, you will get the real thing as it sounds on hardware.

Compatibility:

This library is available for Kontakt 5.6.8 (NOT the free Kontakt Player). Kontakt requires Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.13 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

If you are after an authentic sounding, deeply-sampled collection of analog synths and drum machines, Retrowave is one of the best choices available. It features over a dozen vintage instruments, each programmed to produce sounds ideal for Synthwave and Chillwave.

So, it makes for an easy way to get the ideal retro sounds without much tweaking and sound design.

3. Native Instruments Retro Machines MK2

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

This sample library provides an elegant user interface alongside a comprehensive collection of sampled vintage instruments.

Synths defined the sound of the 70s and 80s electronic pop music. Hence, this library covers the most usable presets and many customization features that help you create retro-style music fast.

Furthermore, each preset comes with eight “sound variations,” which provide production-ready sounds with specific parameter changes. You can also tweak each variation and end up with eight custom sounds, ideal for live performance.

Key Features:

• Synth Page

The main Synth Page provides many parameters that let you customize your sound. These include oscillator controls, filters, envelopes, and LFOs. So, it’s evident that the library uses samples with programmed emulation to generate its sounds.

The eight sound variations buttons let you create different styles of the same preset by changing the available parameters. Once you’re done, you can use the Morph slider to transition between the variations. You can also automate this parameter.

• Performance

Switch over to the Arp/Chord page, and you’ll find a 12 (triplet) or 16-step arpeggiator with velocity control per step. You can double the speed, add swing, change note duration, octave range, etc.

Likewise, you’ll also find a Chord section below the arpeggiator. This lets you create chords from single notes. You can play chords with up to four notes, and it includes chord presets.

• Effects

The library features primitive effects that help you preview the sound with some effects. These include reverb, echo, and phaser. Each comes with one knob that controls the mix amount.

Compatibility:

This library is available for Kontakt 6.6.0 or Kontakt Player 6.6.0. Kontakt requires Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.13 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Retro Machines MK 2 is a collection of sixteen analog synths and keyboards covering the classic sounds of 70s and 80s pop music. These include dramatic synth pads, fancy basses, powerful leads, etc. The best part is how pristine the recording quality is. It’s a great choice for making Synthwave and Chillwave music.

Bonus:

Cherry Audio DCo-106

More Info & Price 

Cherry Audio has slowly gained ground as one of the reputable plugin developers ever since their release of Voltage Modular synth, and the DCO-106 only strengthens that fact.

Introduced in 1984, the Roland JUNO-106 synth was the third and most advanced model in the JUNO series. It was also the first to employ MIDI, which meant beat-synced arpeggio in a hardware synth. Furthermore, it featured the standard JUNO chorus effect.

Cherry Audio sought to recreate the sound of this classic synthesizer, and the resulting plugin is the DCO-106. It emulates the sonic personality of the Roland design in minute detail and enhances many of the features to make it feel more contemporary.

The user interface is elegant and straightforward, but a little exploration soon reveals the power underneath. Let’s take a look at its features:

Key Features:

• Single Oscillator
• HPF & VCF
• Moving Parameters
• Perform
• Arpeggiator & Effects

Compatibility:

Cherry Audio DCO-106 is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.9 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Due to its simplicity and characteristic sound, the JUNO-106 became widely popular in the mid and late-80s. So, musicians creating retro music like Synthwave and Chillwave keep this hardware high up on their wish list.

However, the hardware is difficult to find nowadays, even if you are willing to invest a large sum, not to mention the frequent tune-ups necessary to keep it shipshape.

Cherry Audio’s DCO-106 allows you to achieve the near-identical sound of the esteemed gear while also providing a higher number of polyphony and built-in effect processors.

Furthermore, it provides a variety of voice assign modes and a portamento feature. Likewise, smaller features like modulating the pulse width with the envelope generator provide more sound designing possibilities than the hardware.

Conclusion

Here we are at the end of this gargantuan article; covering the needs of two entire genres is sure no easy task. However, this list of plugins should have provided you with a good idea of what you are going to need to delve into Synthwave and Chillwave.

I’ve enlisted the plugins that make production easier, as well as those that offer a wide range of sound designing features.

For example, ujam Usynth 2080 and Vice are certainly the easiest plugins to use on this list. The prior covers the harmonies and melodies, whereas the latter is for beat-making.

Similarly, Analog Dreams for Kontakt is an awesome sample library that is also straightforward and full of inspiring sounds. It features authentic samples from hardware synths processed with modern effects and modulation systems.

Contrariwise, if you happen to be like me and enjoy having as much control over your sound as possible, I highly recommend u-he Diva and Synapse Audio Obsession. These two synths are insanely powerful and let you create sounds that would be near-impossible to program in a typical synthesizer.

Furthermore, the free Odin 2 by TheWaveWarden is also a must-have for all the producers who enjoy sound designing. It offers many types of oscillators that range from analog emulation and chip-tune to FM, wavetable, and additive synthesis, not to mention its filter types, five effect processors, and many modulators.

Likewise, Surge XT deserves mention as another excellent free synth.

There’s one more synth collection I’d like to mention: the newly-updated Syntronik 2 by IK Multimedia. Previously, Syntronik was more of a sample-based synth library, but the second version adds an Edit page, among others.

It lets you make detailed changes to your sound and create hybrids. The included sound library features thirty-three vintage synthesizers and keyboards like Roland JUNO-60, Jupiter 8, Yamaha GS1, Korg DW-8000, Oberheim Matrix-12, Prophet VS, Korg Trident, etc.

With that, we reach the end of this article. I hope I could share an intriguing plugin in your journey to create Synthwave and Chillwave music. And until the next article, happy music-making!