Top 13 Synth Plugins 2023 (All Sorts of Synths)

Today, we’ll review the 13 best synth and instrument plugins of 2023 for producers and sound designers.

Some people simply can’t have enough synths. If you’re lucky, you might have a collection of the best hardware units ever created, but for most of us mere mortals, the plugins will suffice.

Synthesizers have been around since the early fifties, but never before have they been able to do what today’s virtual synths can. And though some still pay homage to the early pioneers, others are pushing forward to create new ways of generating sound. We looked for the best modern synthesizers and reviewed them to help you pick your next music production tool.

The 13 Best Synth Plugins 2023

1. FabfFilter Twin 3 NEW*

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Twin 3 is the third iteration of the Twin series and is designed to be a versatile and powerful virtual synthesizer for music production and sound design.

It offers a wide range of sound generation capabilities, including subtractive synthesis, frequency modulation (FM), and even wavetable synthesis. That allows you to create diverse sounds, from classic analog-style tones to modern and experimental textures. It features an intuitive graphical interface that makes sound design and tweaking parameters straightforward.

Key Features:

• Modulation and Effects
  The plugin includes a variety of modulation sources and effects to shape and manipulate sounds. You can modulate parameters using envelopes, LFOs (Low-Frequency Oscillators), and more. Additionally, there are high-quality built-in effects like reverb, delay, and distortion.
  Modulation options are endless, with various sources like XLFOs, XY controllers, and envelope generators. It also includes ring modulation and scalable interfaces. The high-quality option enhances audio quality, while the Source Level control scales output for sources.
• Polyphonic and Monophonic Modes
  With the plugin, you get both polyphonic and monophonic modes, allowing you to create chords and complex harmonies or focus on single-note leads and basslines.
• Presets and resizeable GUI
  The plugin has a collection of presets and sound banks to help you get started quickly and explore different sonic possibilities. You can also resize its graphical user interface (GUI) to fit your workflow and screen size preferences.
• Modular-Style Workflow
  FabFilter Twin 3 offers a modular-style workflow, allowing you to patch and route modules and modulation sources to create intricate soundscapes. It features a drag-and-drop modulation matrix that simplifies complex routing.
• High-Quality Effects
  Twin 3 boasts a suite of high-quality effects that enhance sound design possibilities. It includes professional-grade effects such as reverb, delay, chorus, and distortion, which can be applied directly within the plugin. These effects are not mere add-ons but are seamlessly integrated into the synthesis process, allowing you to sculpt and shape your sounds with precision, adding depth, texture, and character to your creations.
• Easy programming
  This synth offers straightforward programming thanks to its four vintage-style oscillators, flexible filters, and integrated top-tier effects. Crafting distinctive sounds is a breeze. The redesigned preset browser allows you to search by typing, tag your favorites, and efficiently locate the perfect sound for your needs.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available in VST, VST 3, AU, and AAX formats (32- and 64-bits) and is compatible with Windows and Mac.

Summary:

FabFilter Twin 3, as compared to its previous versions, boasts an entirely revamped and user-friendly interface, simplifying workflow. Sound quality is enhanced with analog-modeled drift for oscillators and improved filters. The addition of a fourth oscillator further expands sonic possibilities.

With features like polyphonic portamento, live modulation visualization, and extensive help resources, Twin 3 is a versatile synth available in various formats.

2. Knif Audio Knifonium

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

The Knifonium synthesizer plug-in is modeled after Knif Audio’s Knifonium hardware synthesizer. The plug-in, created by Brainworx, offers the same features as its hardware counterpart, along with a few additional features to expand on the great tube tone. 

The hardware Knifonium is a monophonic, tube synthesizer that offers two VCOs, a 24 dB/Octave ladder filter, a ring modulator, LFO, 2 envelope generators, and a Sample & Hold. The plugin offers the same features along with 8-voice polyphony, an extended keyboard range, quantization control for sample & hold, voice handling controls, mid-side filtering, a unison mode, and a variety of FX created by Brainworx.

You can expect an analog-styled plugin capable of creating warm, smooth pads, edgy FM style tones, and deep, cinematic, and rhythmic pulses. If you would like to hear it for yourself, Plugin Alliance’s SoundCloud page offers 18 short tracks showcasing the plugin’s sound.

Key Features:

• Tolerance Modelling Technology (TMT)
  Unlike digital, analog components varying in their ability to function and no two pieces of equipment can perform exactly the same. How far a component sways from the original intended performance value is called tolerance. In order to capture the authenticity of the original hardware, Brainworx have used their patented technology that emulates the the tolerance variations found in analog hardware.
• Selectable Tube Amp Modes
  The hardware inspiration uses 26 tubes for amplification and the plugin has been designed to emulate this. And like the hardware counterpart, you have a three-position dial for selecting tube types. The three positions are: triode, pentode, or saturated. Each position adds its own level of tube saturation to color the tone of the sound for warmer or dynamic playing.
• Voice Handling Settings
  You will have control over the thickness and range of voices within the voice handling section of the plugin. It offers a four-position dial for selecting the number of voices you’d like to use—one, two, four, or eight voices—and a switch for activating unison mode for thicker tones.
• Mid/Side Processing
  For those not familiar, mid/side processing is when the center and the sides of an audio image are processed independently to enhance clarity, dynamics, or depth within a mix. The Knifonium plugin’s filter features an option to apply similar processing to the signal. You will be able to choose whether you’d like to send the mid, side, or both signals through the VCF for shaping.
• Sidechaining Additional Synth Plugins
  Additional synth plugins can be sidechained to the Knifonium to act as a CV for modulation. You will be able to connect up to two external sources to modulate either oscillator’s pitch, the filter’s cutoff frequency, or aftertouch.
• Built-In FX Chain
  Brainworx have compiled a selection of trimmed down versions of some of their best effects available for you to embellish the plugin’s sound. The effects offered include a BBD-style delay, Mäag AIR BAND® filter, reverb, flanger, blue chorus, metal666 amp simulator, phaser, SPL EQ Ranger, and a wavefolder.

Compatibility:

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

Summary:

Brainworx’s plugin is well made and offers a good software version of a particularly rare hardware synthesizer. The features included expand upon the tonal options well and overall I’d say that this plugin is a welcome addition to anyone’s library. It sounds great and has a wide range of controllable parameters for you to get creative with. In addition, if you’re looking for a synthesizer plugin that emulates the sound of a tube driven analog synth, you’ve found it.

Related Reading:

Top 11 Plugins On Plugin Alliance 

3. Arturia Pigments 4

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Pigments 4 is a powerful and versatile synth that combines the best features of both virtual analog and granular synthesis.

It features a user-friendly interface and offers a wide range of sounds and presets, as well as the ability to create and modify your own sounds. It also includes a built-in modulation matrix, effects, and a step sequencer. Lastly, it features analog, wavetable, Harmonic, and sample-based synthesis engines.

It is the fourth version of their Pigments software, which is known for its versatile sound design capabilities and advanced modulation options. It includes new features, such as a granular engine, a revamped modulation matrix, and new user interface, as new upgrades. It also includes a wide range of sounds and presets and the ability to import samples and use them in the synthesizer.

Key Features:

• Virtual Analog and Granular Synthesis
  The plugin combines the best of both worlds by offering the warmth and richness of virtual analog synthesis with the flexibility and granularity of granular synthesis. This allows you to create a wide range of sounds, from classic analog emulations to more experimental and unique sounds.
• Dual Oscillator Engine
  The synth features a dual oscillator engine that allows you to layer and combine different waveforms and samples. You can also use the dual oscillator engine to create complex modulation and cross-modulation effects.
• Modulation Matrix
  Pigments 4 includes a built-in modulation matrix that allows you to create complex and dynamic sounds by routing different modulation sources to various destinations. This feature is particularly useful for creating evolving, organic sounds.
• Step Sequencer
  Pigments 4 includes a step sequencer that allows you to create patterns and sequences in various ways. The step sequencer can be used to create simple beats or more complex patterns and can also be used as a modulation source in the modulation matrix.
• Effects
  The synth includes several effects that can be used to shape and sculpt the sound. These effects include delay, reverb, distortion, chorus, compressor, EQ, filter, and more. The effects can be used in series or parallel and modulated using the modulation matrix, which allows for high sound design possibilities.
• Arpeggiator
  The arpeggiator in the synth can be used to create arpeggiated patterns. It allows you to adjust the tempo, the number of octaves, the direction, and the pattern of the arpeggio.
• Presets and Sound Library
  The presets are organized into categories, such as bass, leads, pads, and effects, making it easy to find the type of sound you want. You can also search for presets by keyword, which can be useful when looking for a specific type of sound.
  Lastly, the presets are categorized into Types (leads, pads, etc.), Styles (e.g., Ambient cinematic, modern, dubstep, etc.), and Banks.
• Sequencing capabilities
  The synth includes a built-in step sequencer that can be used to create rhythmic patterns and melodic sequences, which allows you to adjust the sequence length, the number of steps, and the tempo. In addition, you can add and edit notes, rests, and ties and adjust each step’s velocity, swing, and gate. Lastly, the modulation matrix can connect the step sequencer to other synthesizer parameters, such as oscillator pitch or filter cutoff.
• Advanced Interface
  The interface of Arturia Pigments 4 is well-designed and user-friendly, making it easy to navigate and adjust the parameters of the synthesizer. It also allows for a high level of customization, which makes it adaptable to different workflows and preferences.
  For example, it lets you adjust the layout and color scheme to suit your preferences. It also includes a full-screen mode, which allows you to focus on the main panel and hide the sidebar and bottom bar.
• Views
  The synth includes a variety of views that can be accessed from the left sidebar of its interface. These views let you isolate and edit different synthesizer sections, such as the oscillators, filters, effects, and modulation matrix. Each view displays the relevant parameters and controls for that section, making it easy to access and adjust the settings you need.
• Skins
  The plugin has a variety of skins by which you can change the overall look and feel of the interface. These skins include color schemes and layouts, such as classic, dark, and minimal. The skins can be selected from the global settings menu, and you can switch between them anytime.
• Macro Controls
  Arturia Pigments 4 includes macro controls, a set of eight knobs that can be used to control multiple parameters simultaneously. They allow you to quickly adjust multiple settings with a single control, making it easier to create complex sounds and perform live. The macro controls can be mapped to any parameters within the synthesizer, such as filter cutoff, oscillator pitch, or LFO rate. This allows you to create custom mappings that suit your workflow.

Compatibility:

Arturia Pigments 4 is compatible with Mac and Windows operating systems and can be used as a standalone application or as a plugin within a digital audio workstation (DAW) software that supports VST, VST3, AU, and AAX plugin formats.

In addition, it requires a minimum of 4GB of RAM and a 2GHz processor, and also a display with a minimum resolution of 1280×800 pixels. It is also compatible with eLicenser, iLok, and Arturia Software Center for managing and authorizing Arturia software products.

Summary:

The synth combines the best features of virtual analog and granular synthesis and features a user-friendly interface. In addition, the plugin features a set of macros controls that allow you to quickly and easily shape and sculpt the sound of the synth, which also includes a randomize button that can be used to randomly adjust the values of the macros, which can be useful for generating new and unexpected sounds.

Related Reading:

Top 20 Instrument VST Plugins For Musicians 2022

Top 14 Arturia Plugins For Musicians 2022

4. Universal Audio – Opal Morphing Synthesizer

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Opal Morphing Synthesizer is a Wavetable & Analog soft-synth with unique morphing filters and classic UAD built-in effects.

The plugin consists of three main oscillators, which could be switched between conventional analog waveforms and 91 well-chosen and versatile wavetables, with up to twelve voices of unison, and an additional noise generator, with a separate Mixer section, in which you can balance the levels and even the signal flows of the oscillators and noise generators.

The oscillators have all seven basic analog waveforms, along with a special Ensemble knob that increases the number of voices of the synth, with a slight detune between them, giving a fat and wide analog sound. The plugin can also be rented out or subscribed to using UAD Spark.

Key Features:

• Continually variable filters
  The shape of the filters can be morphed continually, from low pass to band to comb filtering to notch and so on, which can produce some interesting movements in the sound. For example, the filter shapes can be modulated using an LFO, creating cool rhythmic effects. On top of that, there’s a filter envelope available, along with a mix knob, controlling the amount of envelope mixed into the filter. In addition, there are basic resolution and slope knobs to support the filtering.
• Modulation Matrix Window
  You can assign almost any control in the Opal Morphing Synth to a modulator. All you have to do is select the controls and modulators in the Source and Destination dropdown window. One can also set the amount, offset, and physical or MIDI control via the “Modulation via” option.
• Interesting Modulators
  There are two basic LFOs available in the plugin, along with a unique multi-segment section, which lets you select different modulation functions like envelopes of different shapes and LFOs of different curves. In addition, there are plenty of presets to choose from.
• Effects
  You can add two effects to yours with an adjustable mix knob. These effects are of studio quality with parameters that you can modulate. The range of effects includes reverb, tape delay, 1176 compressor, and more.

Compatibility:

Opal Morphing Synthesizer is currently available only on Mac, comes in AAX, AU, VST 3, and LUNA formats, and has a minimum system requirement of macOS 10.15.  Now, also available on Windows 10 or more.

Summary:

A huge drawback of the plugin is that you can’t load your wavetables into it, although the built-in presets are quite adaptable. Secondly, the CPU usage of Opal Morphing is high. However, the presets in the synth are great, along with its eye-pleasing interface with the changeable signal map. Overall the plugin sounds high-resolution, has immense functionality, and is versatile.

6. ROLI Equator2

More Info & Price 

Equator2, by ROLI, is a six-source hybrid synth with a highly flexible routing engine.

This plugin’s UI is divided into two halves. The top half contains the synth source modules, filters, settings, visualizers, and effects. Alternatively, the bottom half holds all the modulation sources, the five macros, and the routing engines.

This simplified workflow benefits productivity, even though the UI looks crowded. Equator2’s primary offering is the hybrid sources, though. You get oscillator, sampler, granular, and noise sources, which you can use simultaneously in up to six source slots.

Key Features:

• Multiple Sources 
  Equator2 offers the basic analog-like waveform oscillators, but it goes further. You’ll also benefit from a multi- and single-layer sampler engine, a granular synthesis engine, and a noise module with three different sounds. All these sources can be mixed and matched to taste. For example, you can use any sample as the source sound for the granular engine. This malleability, plus the six available source slots, makes the Equator2 a powerhouse of a synthesizer.
• Flip-Flop 
  Within the Random Modulation Source menu, you’ll find four randomization sources in addition to the Flip-Flop. This module switches its output between 100% and 0% with every new note. What you get is a “note on, note off” feel. It works independently with each of the synth’s voices.
• Effects
  The plugin gives you a 12-slot effect rack so you can shape and texturize your patch to taste, all within the synth—no need to pile up more CPU-hungry plugins on this channel. The green line around the rack shows you the signal path, and at the top of the menu, you can toggle between four available configurations. There are fourteen effects, including a granular delay, a chorus, a flanger, a compressor, and many more. You can also add any of these effects multiple times until you fill up all the twelve slots.
• Routing Matrix
  You can shape the sound to your liking simply by sending the outputs of any given source module to different parts of the synth. To do so, use the routing matrix to reposition a source’s output into the global filters or the effects’ inputs. Then, later in the chain, you can choose where you want the signal to go before hitting the main out. Alternatively, you can use the routing matrix to send sound straight from the source to the main output.

Sound & Usability:

If you want it to, the Equator2 can sound effortlessly warm, complete, and rich. Alternatively, it can sound harsh and powerful. The presets are entire trips on their own – you could spend days just playing and feeling the unusual sounds. Most presets that use the granular engine, such as “Harp of the Amethyst Circle,” sound natural while still soaked in granulation.

All that shows that you can create your patches and have them be as impressive as you want with Equator2’s versatility. Other than that, usability’s very simple, and finding presets is easy with the tagging system. You can search for sounds based on source, instrument, articulation, and timbre, making life easier and speeding the workflow.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for macOS 10.14 and newer and Windows 10 in VST, AU, and standalone formats.

Summary:

The ROLI Equator2 is a fantastic synth for producers and artists looking for the best of all worlds. From the analog-like wavetable engine to the all-digital granular synthesis, you’ll have an extremely versatile plugin at your disposal. It’s expensive, but this plugin is a whole instrument, so that’s expected.

If you already own a ROLI keyboard, integration is seamless since you’ll be able to take advantage of all of the patches’ nuances. Nevertheless, it’s a hell of a great addition to your synth collection.

Related Reading:

Top 7 Wavetable Synth Plugins 2022

7. Softube Model 72 Synthesizer

More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Or Buy Here (Support Integraudio)

The nicest retro sounds may be obtained by using an analog device.

The finest synthesizer sounds were frequently performed through antique machines, sometimes with hundreds of patch connections or knobs to fiddle with. However, the components inside its structure ensured that these sounds were as unique and original as possible, which is an important feature of their distinct tone.

Softube took the initiative to recreate the essence of a real 1972 hardware in good shape, capturing and translating every aspect into this virtual instrument.

Key Features:

• • Designed and built with passion
    Softube has extensive expertise simulating music gear and has collaborated with hundreds of audio businesses such as Solid State Logic, Tube-Tech, and Weiss Engineering. Model 72 does the same thing by meticulously reproducing every module of this synth to deliver the most realistic feel possible from every small adjustment in any knob or parameter.
  • Expansion panel
    One of the nicest aspects of a virtual instrument is the new features that may come with it. The “Expansion” tab, for example, allows you to freely adjust individual parameters such as “Doubling” and “Spread.” These two new knobs enable you to have the identical notes you played doubled by another synth and to adjust how much this doubling is spread out in the stereo image.
  • Tone generator
    The tone generator is the basic core of the synth, where all sounds are created to be subsequently adjusted. You’ll find three oscillators here, two with almost similar output waveforms and a third dedicated to working as an independent modulation oscillator with greater tuning range and slightly varied waveforms, providing modest variation when making new tones.
  • Modulation
    All of the magic takes place here. This part has a “Master Tune” knob that controls the overall tuning of the Model 72, the “Note Glide” pace, and the modulation mix. As an alternative modulation source, a dedicated LFO can be employed. The modulation wheel acts as an attenuator, fine-tuning the amount of modulation spread, and may also be routed to an oscillator pitch or a specified filter cutoff frequency.
  • Amp Room module
    The “Amp Room” module is responsible for creating the optimum instrument sound. This thick-sounding filter with “Envelope Follower,” “Cutoff,” “Drive,” and “Resonance” controls can make your guitar, bass, or keyboard sound as funky as ever. “Fast” and “Smooth” are the two settings of the “Envelope Follower.” A dedicated “Mix” knob can assist in balancing the effects and their resulting mixed sound.
  • The modules
    Model 72’s parts are separated into “Tone Generator,” “Amplifier,” “Filter,” “Envelope,” “Noise and Glide,” “Doubling,” and “Preamp.” All segments are created in the same manner as an actual unit, with identical signal flow. Specific components, such as the “Amplifier” and “Preamp,” offer the true feel necessary to make it sound realistic, flawlessly mimicking each subtlety that makes the frequencies stand out.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for macOS 10.13 up to 12 (64-bit only) and Windows 10 and 11 (64-bit only). It comes in VST, VST 3, AAX, and AU plugin formats. 

Summary:

Softube’s Model 72 is a great recreation of an instrument that influenced an entire generation of artists and producers, particularly in funk music. With a synthesizer on your side, the possibilities are nearly limitless, and Softube did an excellent job of reproducing virtually old hardware like this synth.

There aren’t many intricate controls, only simple commands that deal with frequency modification like the previous units.

Related Reading:

Top 12 Softube Plugins For Music Production 2022

8. Audio Damage Continua

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Continua, by Audio Damage, lets you bend the wave shapes any way you want.

The plugin offers three independent oscillators, two filters, four envelope modulators, and four LFOs. You can use oscillators two and three to modulate the first oscillator and assign noise and drive to the filters. In addition, you can use the filters in parallel or series for different effects and pan them to taste. In the FX/Output menu, you’ll find a chorus, a delay, and a reverb – all of which are stereo effects. You’ll also get eight macros you can assign parameters to.

Key Features:

• Fifteen Voices
  This polyphonic synth lets you play up to fifteen notes simultaneously, which can help you create beautifully layered arrangements.
• Filters
  Filtering in Continua is not restricted to the usual HP, LP, BP, and Notch shapes. Instead, thanks to the fantastic Morph knob, you can slightly shape your filter to make it unique. That ensures that not only do you get all the regular filters, but you can also unlock what’s between them.
• Envelope Generators
  The plugin gives you two ADSR and two FEG envelopes, which can be routed anywhere in the plugin. The ADSRs operate simultaneously, while the FEGs can be set independently. The ADSR control panel gives you a knob for each parameter, in addition to the Curve knobs for the attack, decay, and release. That helps you shape the envelope to taste, but things get truly interesting with the FEGs. Its flexibility allows the user to add unlimited breakpoints to the envelope, shape them to taste, and even sync them to the host tempo.
• Unisons Mode
  You can create a thicker sound by using Continua’s unison mode. That will make all fifteen voices, or fewer if you prefer, play the same notes simultaneously. Additionally, you can adjust the number of agents by using the knob under the Voice Activity graph.
• Sample & Hold
  You can use this cool feature to generate random notes. The source can be either random numbers or the outputs of an envelope or LFO. You can mix the signal using the Smooth, Limit, and Level controls and choose the pace through the Rate knob.

Sound & Usability:

You can create mind-bending leads or entire soundscapes with the plugin’s broad set of controls. The extensive modulations, beautiful effects, and nuanced filters make it a unique-sounding tool. But obviously, a great deal of Continua’s magic comes from its three oscillators. Not only can you create the three most common waveforms, but the plugin also lets you distort the shapes to taste to design different sounds.

When it comes to usability, Continua offers one of the most user-friendly interfaces on this list. If you’re acquainted with synthesizers and have experience building sounds from scratch, you’ll find this plugin an effortless device.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for Windows 8.1 and higher and macOS 10.12 and newer in VST, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Continua is the perfect plugin for sound designers and producers who want to generate exciting sounds without wasting time. The interface is straightforward, and the parameters all have understandable names rather than confusing acronyms.

You can’t go wrong with this Audio Damage synth plugin. Its highly configurable nature gives you all the control you need over your patches, which results in an excellent workflow.

Related Reading:

Top 11 Granular Plugins 2022 For Future Sound Design

9. NI Massive X

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Massive X, by Native Instruments, gives you the freedom to create innovative sounds effortlessly.

Even though the plugin only offers a pair of oscillators, the vast wavetable catalog ensures that two is more than enough. Of course, you can combine and shape several pre-made waves further, but you can also adjust the Wavetable Modes. Moreover, the signal chain can be rerouted so that you can achieve different kinds of synthesis techniques.

Key Features:

• Wavetable Modes
  Massive X offers ten different modes (Standard, Bend, Mirror, Hard-sync, Wrap, Formant, ART, Gorilla, Random, and Jitter), which determine the behavior of the wavetable oscillator. Whatever mode you choose will determine the functionalities of the controls around the central wave knob. There are two dedicated parameters for each mode, which help add to Massive’s ease of use and versatility.
• Noise Section
  The plugin makes it easy to add textures to your synth but way beyond the traditional white or pink noises. There’s a wide range split into seven categories: Static, Friction, Processed, Environment, Machines, Beings, and Transients. In addition to those, you can create and save your noises to use as textures. The plugin lets you add two noise generators and mix them with a fader and pitch controls.
• Insert Effects
  You can add up to three effects anywhere in your signal chain. There are ten effects, including a bit crusher, a pitch shifter, and a ring modulator. Additionally, you can also use the insert effects to add another oscillator. It’s not as versatile as the other ones, but you can create a Sine, Saw, or Pulse wave.
• Modulations
  The plugin gives you three Performer sequencers, nine primary modulators, four trackers to map MIDI controls, and a Voice Randomization unit. You can drag any of these modulators from the source bar and drop them in any parameter you desire. The modulators can be adjusted below on the Edit menu. Among all the modulators, the Voice Randomization is the one that helps the synth sound the most natural. You can apply it to several parameters, and they will be slightly different with every new note you play.
• Routing
  Use this menu to connect all parts of the synthesizer and come up with different sounds. You can link all parameters and effects differently or bypass an entire section to hear how it sounds. The menu is divided into Polyphonic and Monophonic sections. You’ll find generators and processors, busses, the feedback loop, and the modulation modules in the first area. Alternatively, the Monophonic area will sum the polyphonic signals and apply the stereo effects. Here you can change the order of the stereo effects for additional experimentation.

Sound & Usability:

Massive X makes it easy to create the sounds you’re looking for. The workflow is simplified by the logical, analog-like disposition of parameters and sections. Starting from the top left, you have the oscillators. To their right, you’ll find most effects and, below it all, the modulations. Overall, this is a simple-to-use plugin, which makes it accessible for beginners and experienced producers alike.

With over 600 presets, it’s easy to get started, too. Whether you want to change some preset a little or create your patch from scratch, Massive X gives you plenty of options.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for macOS 10.13 through 10.15 and Windows 10 as a Komplete instrument, without a standalone version. Also, to run Massive X, you need an AVX Compatible processor.

Summary:

Native Instruments’ Massive X is a highly versatile synth that expands on the original’s mythos. Compared to most other synths on this list, its main advantage lies in the highly adaptable Wavetable Modes. They ensure a more extensive library of oscillations than would ever be possible by simply combining differently-shaped waves.

That and the highly user-friendly approach make Massive X an excellent download for your Komplete library.

Related Reading:

Top 12 Subtractive & Additive Synth Plugins 2022

10. Newfangled Audio Generate

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Newfangled Audio’s Generate builds upon a chaotic generator to create complex and unpredictable sounds.

This plugin uses the concept of additive synthesis to expand a basic waveform and shape it into whatever you need it to be. The signal starts with the Chaotic Generator, rolls into the Wavefolder and the Low Pass Gate. Like a regular synth, you can also add effects and modulate any parameter you see fit with Envelopes, LFOs, and more.

Key Features:

• Chaotic Generator
  With all parameters at zero, the plugin simply offers a sinewave sound. The Chaotic Generator transforms that sinewave into a mind-bending, intricate sound. Simply select one of the eight oscillator types, the chaos amount, shape, and animation. Additionally, you can mix in two sub oscillators, sync it to tempo, and define the key you want to work within.
• Wavefolder
  Here, you can start warping the chaotic waveform by adding drive, folds, and shape and symmetry changes. The result is a harmonically rich sound that you can take even further, thanks to the three Wavefolder types.
• Low pass Gate
  Overall, this filter creates a smooth and pleasing sound contributing to Generate’s natural-sounding patches. An ADSR drives the LPG, and you can track the filter’s cutoff frequency to the notes you’re playing.
• Seven Modulation Pages
  Generate gives you five kinds of modulations spread across seven selectable and tweakable pages. You get global settings, two envelopes, two LFOs, a Sample & Hold unit, and a Step Sequencer. You can use the circles above each section’s name to use that parameter as a modulator for anything in the patch.

Sound & Usability:

Creating your chaotic waveform is the most straightforward task possible since you don’t need to understand anything about synthesizers to get started. Simply press a note and watch the yellow lines behind the parameters. Then, as you tweak them, a visual representation of what you’re doing comes alive on the screen.

This innovative concept makes it easy for beginners and fun for the experienced. Different shapes, parameters, and chaotic mode combinations create absurdly interesting sounds, becoming even more enjoyable with modulation.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for Windows 8.1 and higher and macOS 10.9 and newer in AAX, VST, and AU formats.

Summary:

Generate, by Newfangled Audio, is an impressive tool that you should not take lightly. It might not be as versatile as others on this list in the long run, but it’s the plugin with a very unique sound. In short, Generate deserves a place in your collection, primarily if you work with sound design.

11. Vital Audio – Vital

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Vital is a three-oscillator synth that lets you warp wavetables by addressing their harmonics.

With up to twenty polyphonic voices, two filters, three envelopes, and four LFOs, Vital is a powerful sound design tool. Though it only uses wavetable synthesis, it has a few tricks up its sleeve when shaping waves. Moreover, the plugin is highly customizable thanks to its multiple Macros and a Sampler that lets you drag and drop your source files into the plugin.

Key Features:

• Adjustable Wavetables
  You can start shaping the sound to taste with the Unison and Phase manipulators at the oscillators. The plugin lets you add up to sixteen Unison voices and detune them the way you want. To change the phase, first, you need to choose one of the modes underneath the knob. That will give you plenty of freedom to find specific waves between the other ones. And not only does the plugin let you shape wavetables, but it also gives you a 3D view. This graph lets you understand the subtle differences that happen when moving the wave slider up and down. It’s helpful when you need to find the perfect nuance to achieve your sonic goals.
• Transpose Snap
  This feature is present in all oscillators and the sampler, and it’s helpful when you want to transpose a sound harmonically. All you need to do is select the notes you want to be able to transpose to. These will be highlighted on the keyboard icon. If you modulate the pitch adjustment with an LFO, you’ll create an arpeggiated sound.
• Effects
  The plugin gives you nine effects, and the signal flow goes from top to bottom. You can change their order into something that suits your production better, but you can’t double any of them. Overall the effects are thorough and versatile, with the compressor even offering multi-band and single-band options.
• Advanced Tabs
  Here, you’ll find some settings for oversampling, voice, and display, but mainly you’ll get options and unison controls for the oscillators and a couple of analysis graphs. The Unison controls give you enough parameters to let you place those extra voices wherever you want in the stereo field, but also the wavetable. That helps create an image with a lot more depth and width.

Sound & Usability:

Vital sounds like most synth plugins with simple settings engaged. Its characters are not much different from that of an analog synth. It’s when you start using the Unison Spectral Morph that Vital shows its actual capacity.

Under the Unison knob, you can dial in one of several Spectral options that will tackle the waveform’s harmonics. The resulting sounds are often unpredictable but generally very full and, depending on the amount you dial, almost granular-like.

Using the plugin is easy, but mostly if you’re acquainted with the way synths work. That’s not to say Vital isn’t beginner-friendly, although it could at least have some notes when you hover over parameters to give you tips.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for Linux 18.04 and newer, Windows 10, macOS 10.12, and higher in VST, AU, and LV2 formats.

Summary:

It’s not hard to get a great sound out of Vital Audio’s Vital. It’s a complex plugin with an easy-to-guess workflow and excellent wavetable-shaping options. It offers what most synths plugins offer but delivers just a bit more in some situations.

That and its warping methods put Vital in a unique position among its competitors, making it an essential tool for today’s producers.

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12. kiloHearts Phase Plant

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Phase Plant, by kiloHearts, is a highly capable synth with a straightforward workflow.

The plugin’s interface is divided into three main areas: generators, effects, and modulators. The plugin sends the signal from the generator section onto the effects, which you can route anywhere in the plugin.

Phase Plant offers several standard parameters, such as unison, detune, macros, and polyphony, allowing you to create any effect you would be able to with another synth. However, its primary selling point is the multi-mode generators, including a sampler, paired according to necessity.

Key Features:

• Generators
  There are four generators, two effects, and four utility functions to add to this area. As for the first group, the plugin gives you analog, noise, sampler, and wavetable generators. You can mix and match them to taste and even repeat the same generator. That ensures the utmost flexibility, paired with a simple drag-and-replace system to organize the signal flow. The effects you get here are a filter and a distortion, which you can place anywhere in the chain. Finally, the utilities give you the ability to group generators or create auxiliary, mix, and output tracks.
• Effects
  Since Phase Plant is a kiloHearts snapin host, you can add any snapin plugins you own to the chain. If you load a preset that uses snapins you don’t own, they will work, but you won’t be able to tweak their parameters. The effects area has three lanes, and you can send any generator to any route. That gives you more control over the signal flow. From here, you can use the drag and drop arrows to apply modulation or use the effects to modulate any other parameter.
• Modulators
  Here, you’ll find an envelope, LFO, and randomization modules. Additionally, this section lets you apply MIDI control and other utility modules to your patch. The envelope is straightforward, and the LFO offers all the basic shapes. Moreover, it lets you create new waveforms or use the LFO as an envelope. Finally, the random mode is a sample-and-hold LFO that outputs arbitrary values to create unpredictable movement in your patch.

Sound & Usability:

kiloHearts’ approach to making plugins is efficient when you’re inside its ecosystem. The snapin plugins on their own are good, but some lack features and the “wow” factor. However, when you put them together on a snapin host such as the Phase Plant, you see what they were made for. Incredibly, you can add as many snapin effects, generators, and modulators as you need without breaking your CPU in two.

The result of this integration is an endlessly versatile synth that sounds as good as any of the more expensive ones. Additionally, the user interface is clean and understandable, making it easy to get great sounds from the plugin.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for Windows 7 and newer and macOS 10.7 and higher in VST, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

You can place this plugin effortlessly among your go-to synths, especially if you already own some snapin plugins. If you don’t, then you need to purchase some to start creating some more elaborate patches. Nevertheless, Phase Plant offers many generators, making the real difference in developing new and exciting sounds.

Related Reading:

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13. Xfer Records Serum

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Serum, by Xfer Records, is a favorite among electronic music artists due to its remarkable user-friendliness.

Creating, editing, and manipulating wavetables is effortless with Serum’s quality-oriented workflow. Additionally, whenever you import an audio file into Serum, it will analyze and divide it into unique waveforms that you can use as wavetables within the synth. Then, you can warp and modulate the waveforms to your liking, and when they’re done, the plugin offers a 10-effect rack that eliminates the need for more plugins in your signal chain.

Key Features:

• Filter Types
  The plugin offers four filter categories: Normal, Multi, Flanges, and Miscellaneous. You’ll get a large set of filter presets for each, and the numbers beside their names represent how steep the cutoff curve is. In addition to the ability to engage the filter for both oscillators, plus the sub and the noise engines, you can use note-tracking to keep the filter in tune with every new note.
• Sub-Tables
  Not only does the plugin let you see and hear the main wavetable, but it also offers different layers of the same sound, depending on how many Unison voices you have selected.
• Copy LFOs and Envelopes
  Hold down “alt” (“option” on the Mac) while clicking on the ENV or LFO top bar and dragging it to another one beside it. That will copy the entire shape and its parameters onto the new slot. You can do the same process to copy an LFO or Envelope shape into any oscillator if you want to. That will create a custom wavetable with the same pattern as the source.

Sound & Usability:

With its two main oscillators, plus a sub and a noise generator, Serum provides a wide range of sonic possibilities. Unfortunately, even though its single filter has several presets and attractive controls, such as fat and drive, it lacks in number. If we could at least have a dedicated filter for each main oscillator, then Serum would probably be better positioned on our list.

However, usability-wise, Serum is as easy as they come. It’s fun to play around with Serum’s knobs when sculpting your sound. Additionally, the controls are appropriately named, which improves the user experience.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for macOS 10.11 and newer and Windows 7 and higher as a VST, AU, and AAX plugin.

Summary:

It’s easy to understand how Serum got its famed status. Just from looking at it, you immediately know what you need to do. And truth be told, you can create great sounds even if you’re not that experienced. Overall, this is a user-friendly plugin that deserves a place in your collection.

Other Great VST Synths:

u-he Diva

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Diva, by u-he, offers limited controls, but it sounds very similar to real analog synths.

Overall, Diva is an easy plugin to navigate. The plugin gives you five different types of oscillators, four kinds of high-pass filters, five main filter options, and three types of envelopes. You’ll find LFOs, the effects, and the available controls in the lower panels, such as sync, pan, and tuning.

Additionally, there are individual menus for modifications, trimmers, scope, and presets.

Key Features:

• Oscillators
  Each of the five types offers a slightly different GUI, which can be confusing. Other than that, they all sound incredible. For example, in the Voltage Controlled Oscillation area, the plugin gives you three options. A CPU-hungry Triple VCO with FM controls, a multi-wave Dual VCO with PWM, and a CPU-friendly Dual VCO Eco with ring modulation. In addition to those, you get a DCO, a single oscillator with a flexible sub-OSC, and a Digital oscillator, which offers several types of waveforms.
• Filters
  The heart of Diva is its filters. U-he has modeled all five units after a more significant number of classic hardware and, though the controls are similar, each has its unique flavor. For instance, VCF | BITE adds beautiful resonance by increasing the oscillator volume by 10%.
• Oscillator Voice Detune
  Voltage oscillator synths detune slightly due to component wear, creating a natural effect that is almost like a soft chorus. To simulate this, u-he went above and beyond and gave us the Oscillator Voice Detune panel. You can access it by clicking the Trimmers section at the GUI’s bottom. There are three knobs for each of Diva’s voices, and you can fine-tune them to find your sound. Additionally, you get a “Detune Amt” knob below in the same panel, which controls the global detune. In high values, the same note will sound highly different if you play it twice.
• Presets
  The plugin gives you over 1200 presets, making life a lot easier, especially if you don’t have time to design your patches. Additionally, it’s easy to search for the right presets through tags or text. You can look up categories, features, or the character of the desired sound.

Sound & Usability:

Like most analog gear, you lose some flexibility to gain character and personality. And even though this is a plugin, it makes every effort to get the best of the most famous hardware synths. As a result, this plugin’s sound is warm, round, and punchy from the get-go. Additionally, Diva’s usability is unique. That’s because u-he went for a genuinely analog look and feel for this plugin.

However, the overall UI looks a bit crowded, with small names for small knobs. There are no fancy graphs or metering here, simply the parameters laid down as knobs and faders on a clean background. For that matter, controlling the envelopes with faders will come as a new experience for those only used to digital synths.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for macOS 10.7 or newer and Windows 7 or higher in VST, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Built as an all-analog solution for your synth needs, u-he’s Diva lets you grasp the sound of the original hardware for a thin slice of their prices. Unlike the originals, though, you can replace the modules and combine them to taste, just to remind you that you’re in the digital realm. Overall, Diva is a great-sounding plugin that will have a special place in your collection.

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Roland ZENOLOGY Pro

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

With the Zenology Pro Synthesizer plugin, Roland has made the ZEN-Core synth engine available to all DAW users.

Roland’s first announcement hinted at future developments, including full professional-grade ‘power synth’-style features and additional analog hardware emulations, both of which have already been released. The latter component, Zenology Pro, has now been released.

Key Features:

• User Interface
  This ZEN-Core is cutting-edge and adaptable. Though Roland used the engine in its plugins, they gave it a dated and unappealing user interface. Every component and sub-element (partials, OSCs, filters, etc.) is minute and finicky. Small sliders are used as parameters, which could be more user-friendly and enjoyable when writing code. Identical to the Pro Edit, which has a sea of sliders raging in chaos.
• Oscillators
  PCM, virtual analog, PCM Sync (a selection of PCM waves that enable oscillator synchronization between Partials), Supersaw, and Noise are the options for each oscillator section. In addition, you can customize the waveshape and source sample settings independently for each part. Interestingly, each Partial can have its left and right channels independently sampled thanks to PCM mode’s stereo capability.
• Modulations
  With two LFOs and three envelopes per layer, Zenology Pro’s modulation engine is easily controllable. This means you can use up to four partial envelopes and LFOs. Each LFO features both traditional and more intricate waveforms. These latter three are enhancements that provide the LFOs with a new level of flexibility.
  In LFO step mode, you can also independently adjust both LFOs. You will break down your waveforms into smaller pieces. Once in this setting, you can design your very own custom step modulator.
  Each conceivably infinite number of stairwell tiers can include its great sloping profile. In this case, adding a randomization feature would have been a welcome bonus.
• Effects
  The effects tab is tucked away in the terminal third of the user interface. Please note that this statement only applies to the engine as a whole. That means that there is no effect per partial. In addition, there is only one effect slot and no multi-effects processor. The good news is that there are permutations where both types of impacts are present. Therefore, a pseudo-multi-effects processor.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for macOS 10.10 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST/RTAS/AU/AAX formats and supports 32 and 64 bit systems.

Summary:

The Roland Zenology Pro is a powerful Synthesizer plugin that features an extensive library of classic and great sounds. It’s packed to the brim with usable sounds. An excellent synth workstation with a retro flavor was designed with the performer in mind. This is a little competition for synth monsters with extreme power levels. Instead, Z Pro is primarily a synth that brings Roland’s rich synthesis legacy to the realm of plugins.

 iZotope Iris 2

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

iZotope’s Iris 2 offers a different approach to synthesis and an 11 GB sample library.

The Iris 2 isn’t a regular synthesizer. Instead, it combines sampler and modular synthesis technologies to give you a broader palette. Even though the plugin doesn’t have any oscillators, you do get samples from classic analog synthesizers and the tools to manipulate them.

In addition, you can upload any sample you may already own into Iris 2 and apply synth-like modulation, filters, and effects. However, what sets this plugin apart from its competition is the spectrogram menu, in which you can create frequency-based rhythmic patterns or textures.

Key Features:

• Spectrogram
  This graph displays frequencies on the y-axis and time on the x-axis for any sample you load into the plugin. Here, you can use the tools on the left-hand sidebar to select the frequencies you want to hear and the loop time for the sample. In other words, you can manually filter out the frequencies you don’t like or create interesting patterns that playback specific parts of the audio.
• Modulations
  The plugin offers five LFOs and five Envelopes, all of which can modulate any parameter in the patch. You can also assign Mod Wheel, Aftertouch, Velocity, and Key Tracking modulations anywhere in the plugin. All these options allow you to give enough movement to what could sometimes become dull samples.
• Mix Window
  Since you can load up to four samples at once, the mix window offers you a place where you can better blend the sounds to create the final patch. You can access this page in the upper right-hand corner by clicking the Mix button. Opening it lets you close the master and sample panels in the main UI to visualize the spectrogram in better detail.

Sound & Usability:

The presets on this plugin are relatively decent, but nothing special. However, its samples are great, and the ability to stack up to four sample layers is what makes Iris 2 deliver its best results. Learning to work the spectrogram can take some time, mainly if you’re not used to image-editing tools such as the Lasso or the Magic Wand. Nevertheless, once you do, it’s like a whole new world of synthesis opens up in front of you.

Additionally, learning how to use the plugin never feels overwhelming, thanks to its intuitive interface. The best way to understand Iris 2 is by getting hands-on with it and trying to create sounds.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for macOS 10.8 through 10.15 and Windows XP and higher in VST, AU, AAX, and RTAS formats.

Summary:

Spectral synthesis is nothing new, but it’s probably never been as easy to grasp as it is with Iris 2. This one-of-a-kind plugin offers enough tools for sound designers to get creative and blend sounds any way they see fit.

Related Reading:

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Native Instruments Absynth 5

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Absynth 5, by Native Instruments, is famous for its organic soundscapes and marvelous pad timbres.

You can find your modulations, envelopes, and more at the tab selector up top, but don’t let the counterintuitive design scare you away. Even though it’s one of the oldest plugins on our list, Absynth 5 still manages to impress. It offers oscillators, samples, FM, and granular synthesis, and the ability to use external audio sources as generators. The plugin lets you load up to three oscillators, but it leaves two slots open below each generator where you can load filters and modulators.

Key Features:

• The Mutator
  This feature lets you turn some of your current patch characteristics into another patch in the search result list. In short, if there’s a sound you like in any given patch, but you’re using a different one, you can combine both patches using the Mutator. Moreover, you can add randomization and repeat the process as many times as you need.

• Six Sections 
  Up top, the plugin gives you six window selectors named Perform, Patch, Effect, Wave, Envelope, and LFO. On the Perform page, you get an overview of control over the entire synth’s operations. The Patch window is where you can generate, filter, and modulate the sound. Then, there’s the Effect section, where you can add effects, change their order, and stack up some modulation. On the Waves page, you can manipulate your own waves within three categories: Simple, Morph, and Library. Next is the Envelope window, in which you get one 68-breakpoint envelope per oscillator. Finally, there’s the LFO section, where you can modulate your patch with low-frequency oscillators.

• Built-in Effects
  The plugin offers six effect categories, all of which are proprietary and offer a surround panner. In addition, you get the Pipe, which replicates the resonating qualities of physical objects; the Supercomb Filter, which uses feedback to cancel frequencies and achieve a phaser effect; Multitap delay with three taps; Echoes, which creates classic echo sounds with the help of the built-in filters; and the Aetherizer, a granular delay effect that lets you create anything from whispers to shimmering sounds.
• Focused on Ambient Sounds
  Absynth 5’s an exciting tool to create beautiful ambient and atmospheric sounds and pads. The three-oscillator engine, plus the power of the Waves and Envelope windows, make it easy for sound designers to create their dream atmospheres and producers to come up with the perfect beds for their tracks. In addition, you can take advantage of the plugin’s extensive set of waveforms to come up with unique sounds simply by mixing them.

Sound & Usability:

Absynth 5 may be as versatile as some of its most recent peers, but the user interface largely misses the mark when creating an intuitive experience. Nevertheless, it’s easy to find the perfect patch thanks to the Browser. All you need to do is choose the sonic characteristics, and the plugin will offer you several options within that category. Putting your patches together can be a little tricky, but the several synthesis methods, a truckload of effects, and the three oscillators do give you enough liberty.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for Windows 10 and macOS 10.14 and newer in standalone, VST, AAX, and AU formats.

Summary:

Even though this plugin is famous for its pads, you can create exciting lead and bass sounds if you understand how to use it. Unfortunately, Absynth 5 doesn’t make it easy for beginners, but it sure feels right as a tool for more experienced producers.

Roland Jupiter 8

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

The Roland Jupiter 8 virtual analog synth plugin is a robust instrument that has endured the test of time.

Roland’s Cloud Jupiter 8 plugin is a highly accurate representation of the original instrument. So if duplicating the original is your ultimate objective, you’ll do that here. The RC Jupiter 8 uses Roland’s Analog Circuit Behavior Modeling technology for expressive tactile control and is PLUG-OUT compatible.

The plugin has both standard effects and original touches, such as the condition knob, which simulates the wear and tear of the old synthesizer you’re emulating. The Jupiter-8 is also available in Zenology as an add-on model.

Key Features:

• Patches
  Using the Patch button’s browser to rename and copy presets, you may reorganize your presets within a bank. You can share patches with other users if you own a Plug-Out hardware synth. A great way to take your favorite music with you on a trip or to a concert is to record it beforehand.
  Even though you cannot add patches to a favorites list, they can be copied and pasted into a different available spot. In addition, if you pay for a more expensive plan, you can unlock additional preset banks and make them yours forever.
• Oscillators
  This plugin features not one but two oscillators. The octave range and waveform controls are shared between the two OSCs. Also, there is a knob on VCO-1 to implement cross-modulation from 2.
  More tuning options for VCO-2 via Sync, a low-frequency setting, and the Sub knob are available. You can find the oscillators’ volume controls on the instrument’s right side.
• Filters
  The VCF section has both high and low filters; the cutoff of the high filter may be adjusted using a slider, while the cutoff and resonance of the low filter can be toggled separately. In addition, you can adjust the envelope and velocity sensitivity of the bipolar filter. At long last, the filter cutoff’s LFO modulation and key-follow amounts are fully controllable.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for macOS 10.10 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST/RTAS/AU/AAX formats and supports 32 and 64 bit systems.

Summary:

Despite being a slightly less cutting-edge synth plugin than the most recent offerings, it meets many criteria. Most importantly, it has that unmistakable vintage Jupiter sound. You can purchase any of Jupiter-8’s three membership tiers (Basic, Pro, and Ultimate) for a one-time fee of $150 US.

Softube Parallels

More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Or Buy Here (Support Integraudio)
This synth plugin is focused on exploring new sonic patterns and textures.

If your current production requires massive, big ideas, you must have a trustworthy sonic tool that’s capable of delivering such results. Softube Parallels promises to be such a plugin, providing high-quality waveforms in various shapes, adjustable filters, and awesome effects.

Key Features:

• • “Wavescanning” technology
    Parallels is a synth plugin that’s constantly looking for the best sounds to fit your needs. The “Dual-Wavescanning” technology behind its algorithms assures that each waveform or sample contains not only the best sonic elements but full monitoring so you can decide yourself what’s best to do with it.
  • Elegant design
    Dealing with complicated synthesis parameters is not welcoming, even for more experienced producers, if the interface is confusing and polluted. Gladly, that’s not the case with Parallels: all controls are visible, the knobs may glow brilliantly, and you can set the most important parameters very easily.
  • Filter types
    To get the dynamic aspect of your sample nailed perfectly, a good filtering section is mandatory. To cover this, Parallels feature three filter types that were inspired by great analog modules: a set of three resonant peaks, one low-pass gate, and a state-variable filter.
  • Additional presets
    The preset manager allows for importing and saving multiple presets, including user-made ones. However, Softube asked sound designer Bjulin to add further 100 sounds that demonstrate what Parallels is capable of doing.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for macOS 10.13 up to 12 (64-bit only) and Windows 10 and 11 (64-bit only). It comes in VST, VST 3, AAX, and AU plugin formats. 

Summary:

Synthesizers can vary greatly in shape and form. They can behave aggressively, lightly, or just be a useful toolkit to include in most of your productions. Parallels get to be more like the last example due to the amount of customization you can apply to your samples and notes.

The futuristic approach towards its functionality makes it a nice tool for cinematic or audacious productions, capable of bearing the most amazing soundscapes you can think of.

Roland SYSTEM 8

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

With System-8, Roland continues its crusade to reinterpret its earlier work in a modern context.

The SYSTEM-8 incorporates faithful recreations of vintage Roland oscillators, filters, and effects, drawing on our extensive background in synthesizer development. In addition to the iconic JUPITER and JUNO filter designs, it also features legendary third-party oscillator types for producing sounds that are extremely true to the era in which they were first produced.

Key Features:

• Circuit
  The SYSTEM-8 can also produce good tones; it has various oscillators (both digital and analog) and waveforms (including SuperSaw, FM, and more). Recent innovations such as the formant, harmonic, and side-band filters join time-tested favorites like the VCF in the filter model lineup.
  With a few simple adjustments, the SYSTEM-8 can go from glassy to growly or plucky to punchy, making it the most adaptable instrument ever created.
• Filter
  The filter portion features an ADSR envelope with the amount and velocity sensitivity for precise filter control. If you like the sound of your keyboard speed amplifying the filter cutoff, you should have this. It’s becoming apparent that Roland has simplified things to an acceptable degree.
• Variation Control
  The addition of the various control, which, when set to variation 2, enables six Side-Band filters that amplify and distort the harmonics in a very harsh, almost metallic fashion, is arguably the filter’s most intriguing improvement.
  This is especially helpful with more complex tonal sources like the Super-Saw since it provides an additional layer of control (to the point where a second LPF would be useful for taming the chaos).
• Vocoder
  Only the Vocoder, enabled by pressing the Vocoder button on the left fascia, can fully use this function. However, after exploring the settings, you will discover various vocoder control options, which greatly reduce the sibilance feedback and excessively high monitoring volumes.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for macOS 10.10 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST/RTAS/AU/AAX formats and supports 32 and 64 bit systems.

Summary:

The System-8 is a professional-grade synthesizer that has been a pleasure to use. You wouldn’t know it wasn’t a Jupe by listening to it on a track, but with all the extra features, it’s a potent creation in its own right, just like the original.

Dymai Sound Proclethya

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Proclethya, developed by Dymai Sound, is a virtual analog synthesizer.

It’s designed using the Big Three of analog computing, DISTORTION, NOISE, and DRIFT. This synthesizer has several useful features, such as an advanced arpeggiator, equalization, effects, a dual mix mode, a Bottom & NOISE oscillator, individual oscillator synchronization, and more.

Key Features:

• Arpeggiator
  Here, you may set the duration, tempo, and note values for your arpeggio or sequence. You can modify the sequencer’s motion, speed (up to 1/64t), octave cycling, and shuffle to discover your groove, and the maximum number of steps is 64. You can also create a dynamic pumping sound with the help of a programmable Length knob and a pump fx.
• Oscillators
  The A oscillator has five distinct waveform options (Sine, Saw, Square, Triangle, and Noise). Both the square and triangle waveforms have a variable pulse width. In addition to the primary oscillator, both Oscillator A and Oscillator B each feature a secondary doubling oscillator that you may engage by pressing the “2nd” button.
  A subtle combining effect is achieved by detuning the doubling oscillator and switching the output to mono, which is very useful when making pads. With the “Drift” knob, you may recreate the pitch fluctuations or drift that came standard on antique instruments. Per oscillator, you can adjust the detune and spread to achieve unison with up to ten voices.
• FM Module
  Each oscillator is given its dedicated circuit, with Oscillator A going to a global tuner and FM shaper. Each of the three types of tuning—octave, semitone, and finetune—can be adjusted separately. To activate the FM shaper, press the FM button; the control adjusts the dry/wet balance of the modulated sound.
  CRS controls the FM oscillator’s coarse frequency response, and the oscillator’s adequate frequency response is controlled by FIN. Finally, the COL parameter controls the tone color of the shaper oscillator.
• Mix Module
  The MIX module, which you may use in two different ways, receives signals from both oscillators. CROSSOVER allows for a seamless transition between oscillators A and B, and MIX allows for independent volume control of each oscillator.
  Just click the MIX button to switch between the two options. In addition, sub and noise oscillator toggles can be activated or deactivated by clicking their corresponding SUB and NOISE labels.
• LFO Modulator and Filters
  Two low-frequency oscillator modulators (LFOs) can alter the quantity, cutoff, pitch, and bipolar amount (on the second modulator). As a result, the modulation’s intensity, as well as the modulation’s pace and tempo, can be adjusted.
  Multiple filter modes are available in a standard-parameter section (analog, ladder, etc.). Highpass and Lowpass filters for each oscillator in their dedicated module.
• Effects
  Delay, Reverb, Phaser, and Chorus are the accessible sonic effects modules. Depending on how much “Duck” is turned, the impacted signal is “ducked” when an input signal is detected in the Delay or Reverb modules, providing a wide range of unique effects.

Compatibility:

The OS requirements for this plugin are Windows 7 or higher for PC and macOS 10.9 or higher for Mac. It comes in VST/RTAS/AU/AAX formats and supports 32 and 64 bit systems.

Summary:

Proclethya can offer good results and is close to being a great synth. It has a good graphic equalizer and arpeggiator and has decent effects.

Unfortunately, only three or four parameters can be routed in Proclethya’s matrix, while modern synths typically offer dozens. If it were possible to programmatically adjust various aspects of the mix, such as the volume, pan, filter Q, or anything else, that would be great.

Roland Juno-60

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While Roland may be hesitant to reissue its classic analog synths in hardware form, the company has no qualms about creating virtual versions. 

The Juno-60, produced between 1983 and 1984, is a polysynth that features a single DCO, sub-oscillator, and VCF. It is widely regarded as one of the most influential synths of the 1980s. The signature Juno chorus effect is also present.

Roland claims that its Analog Circuit Behaviour modeling technique, which is at the heart of its replication, will faithfully reproduce the “odd quirks and endearing limits” of the original synth. Some new functions have also been added; for instance, you can now swap out the Juno-60’s regular filter for the Juno-106’s high-pass filter circuit.

Key Features:

• VCA
  This includes a new velocity sensitivity knob and an undefined tone knob. When viewed on an oscilloscope, its impact confirms what you can hear: that it gives more bass at its anticlockwise extreme and more midrange and treble at its clockwise extreme, but this needs to be explained in Roland’s scant documentation.
  So that “Tone alters the tonal character,” all it says is that “Tone” is a tinkering tool. Okay, that makes sense. In addition, there are now three settings for the VCA Gain source switch, up from the previous two.
• Juno Chorus
  Many businesses have tried to follow this model, but only some have succeeded. Chorus I and II in Cloud 60 are nearly identical and can be fine-tuned in the first Effects unit to account for any remaining subtle discrepancies (see below). When you mix Choruses I and II, you’ll notice a slight slowing of the modulation compared to the original.
• Signal Path
  The signal flow begins with a simulation of the Juno-60’s single DCO per voice, but there are now six footages ranging in size from 64′ to 2′ to catch the eye, and the on/off switches for the sawtooth and pulse waveforms have been swapped out for faders.
  It’s possible that these embellishments aren’t historically accurate, but they are helpful. As a bonus, the LFO’s effect on the oscillator frequency and the selected contour’s effect on the pulse width can now be applied in opposite directions. While the immediate effects of these alterations may not be immediately apparent, the resulting sonic palette is vastly expanded.
• Effects
  There are three effect modules available on Cloud 60. The first one is a reproduction of the Boss CE1 chorus pedal, and it features six different effects: overdrive, distortion, and Juno choruses. Unfortunately, only two controls are available for these: volume and tone. The second unit features a flanger, a delay/chorus hybrid effect, and two different delays. So again, adjust the volume and the duration of this one.
• Patch Bank
  Regarding Cloud 60, the patch bank has 64 total patches, ranging from A1 to H8, on an 8×8 grid. It’s not how the Juno-60 originally saved sounds, but only the most devoted purist would care about that. Make as many copies of your new banks as you like and store them in files for easy access.
  You may easily manage the sounds within a specific bank, but the Juno 60 only allows one bank to be open at a time, so if you want to combine sounds from several banks into a single one, you’ll have to load each sound individually and save it again.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for macOS 10.10 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST/RTAS/AU/AAX formats and supports 32 and 64 bit systems.

Summary:

If you like the Roland Cloud, here’s another classic synth you can add to your collection at no extra cost: the Jupiter-8. It’s a great-sounding synthesizer, but despite Roland’s assertions, others can emulate the Juno-60. Unfortunately, it’s not the most feature-packed emulation out there, so if you’re looking to buy it as a standalone soft synth, consider the alternatives first.

Tone2 Icarus 2

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Icarus 2, by Tone2, is a complete synthesis workstation with built-in tools no other synth in this list offers.

The plugin gives you three highly intuitive wavetable oscillators, each with 54 synthesis modes and up to 64 polyphonic voices. The result is a highly versatile tool that leaves no stone unturned when it comes to sound design. In addition to two envelopes, four LFOs, two filters, and an EQ, Icarus offers the Main Menu at its core, where you can access effects, the arpeggiator, drum, and glitch controls.

Key Features:

• 54 Synthesis Methods
  Icarus 2 gives you all synth types offered by the others on this list, such as granular, additive, analog, etc. However, it’s the formant, vocoder, harmonic-morphing, phase-distortion, and many other modes that bring this plugin forth as one of the best out there. You can create absolutely any sound with its many synthesis methods.
• Drum Sequencer
  The pattern-based drum sequencer contains over 100 pre-programmed rhythms, but it also lets you integrate your beats with the synth’s functions. The grid offers you sixteen steps to create your beats and five tracks to load or play a sample. Additionally, you can change the volume, velocity, pitch, panning, and many more details for each channel.
• Arpeggiator
  The built-in arpeggiator is almost a synth by itself, and it strikes the perfect balance between strength and usability. Additionally, it gives you advanced features such as autochords, polyphonic playback, pitch slides, swing-shuffle, etc. All these features make up for a powerful built-in tool that enhances the capabilities of the plugin.
• Glitch Sequencer
  This rhythmic-based sound modifier adds multiple glitch effects that disfigure and enhance your sound. You get ten effect rows with sixteen steps per row, and you can add one or several per step. The sequencer gives you a Repeater, Gate, Pan, Tremolo, Low & High-pass filters, Bitcrusher, Degrader, Detune, and Pitchslide effects.

Sound & Usability:

Overall, Icarus 2’s tone is soft and rounded. Nevertheless, it can recreate any classic synth sound and push the limits further with innovative timbres. In addition to the extensive set of synthesis methods, the plugin also gives you dozens of effects and filters that can be combined to create new, one-of-a-kind sounds. The vocalic and resonator filters are examples of exotic types you’ll only find in Icarus 2.

When it comes to user experience, the all-in-one approach makes the UI seem a bit confusing. Even so, using the plugin is truly uncomplicated, as it operates as simply as any other synth despite the excessive number of knobs. You can use a drag and drop function to modulate any parameter and control all connections from the Matrix menu.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for Windows XP and higher and macOS 10.7 and new in VSTi, AU, and Standalone formats.

Summary:

Tone2’s Icarus 2 has enough potential to be the next standard when it comes to versatile synths. It still doesn’t have such a broad user base as Serum, for example, but who knows, it may get there one day. Nevertheless, it’s a must-have tool for the modern-day producer.

Spectrasonics Omnisphere

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Omnisphere 2.6, by Spectrasonics, works as a plugin but also as the software behind over 60 hardware synths.

The plugin’s impressive sound library and architecture are paired with 58 effect units for almost endless sound manipulation. Each oscillator has two modes: Soundsources, which provide samples, or Wavetable, which works like a regular synth. In addition, the plugin offers four layers in which you can create sound from an oscillator and apply modulation, filtering, and an envelope. It also provides neat features such as crucial tracking and up to eight LFOs per layer.

Key Features:

• Eight Parts
  Thanks to its architecture, the Omnisphere 2.6 is like eight synths in one. Considering that each part lets you build a fully-fledged four-layered patch, this plugin gives you access to up to eight patches you can play simultaneously. That means a whole new world, in versatility terms.
• Arpeggiator
  This feature consists of a 32-step arpeggiator with velocity, shuffle, and pattern controls. Additionally, this module gives you step modifiers, which are flexible tools that let you add specific behaviors to single steps. Finally, each of the eight Omnisphere’s parts gives you an arpeggiator, which means you can have up to eight playing simultaneously inside a single plugin.
• Live Mode
  Thanks to its hardware integration with some of the most popular synthesizers on the market, Omnisphere is a powerful live tool. You can switch and layer patches seamlessly using the different parts. If you’re performing, you can have up to eight different sounds per MIDI track, saving you time and CPU in live scenarios.

Sound & Usability:

Not only do the presets sound beautiful, but you also get a description for each of them on the main menu view. That is helpful when you’re searching for a defined mood or genre-oriented sound or want to copy some of the preset’s layers into your patch.

In addition to the wavetables and sample oscillators, the plugin also offers granular synthesis features, which significantly enhance its sonic range. Other than that, Omnisphere’s usability is effortless thanks to its intuitive interface.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for macOS 10.13 and newer and Windows 7 or higher in VST, AAX, and AU formats.

Summary:

Few plugins offer as much flexibility as Spectrasonics’ Omnisphere, let alone its impressive bank of over 14 thousand sounds. It is a fantastic plugin for artists, producers, and sound designers, and you can’t go wrong with adding it to your collection.

Conclusion

Hopefully, picking your next synth just got easier with our 2022 list! No matter if you’re a producer, an artist, or a sound designer, we chose the best options so you can find the best bang for your buck.

Among the paid plugins, a few come ahead on the best-of list. Such synths as the NI Massive X, ROLI Equator2, kiloHearts Phase Plant, and Spectrasonics Omnisphere 2.6 offer everything you’ll ever need from a virtual synthesizer. And the fact that each has its characteristics and sounds makes it almost mandatory to collect with the four.