• Free Synth Vst Plugins For Fl Studio
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• Best Synth Vst Plugins For Fl Studio
• Synth Vst Plug-ins For Fl Studio

Last Updated on February 12, 2021.

Finding great synth plugins can be a challenge, this is why I decided to create this list of the best 15 synth VST plugins that I think sound great.

It’s merely one of the most popular of quality VST plugins producers around. Back to this- Massive is NI’s hybrid synth anchored on ideas and inspirations from wide-ranging sources. You must be wondering what its most exceptional offerings are. Finding great synth plugins can be a challenge, this is why I decided to create this list of the best 15 synth VST plugins that I think sound great. If you’re interested in plugins in general, then check out this HUGE list I created with over 600 plugins, both free & paid.

If you’re interested in plugins in general, then check out this HUGE list I created with over 600 plugins, both free & paid.

Let’s get straight to it!

Diva by U-He (Windows, Mac, Linux)

Diva is a synth that captures the spirit of various analoguesynthesizers by letting the user select from a variety of alternative modules.

The oscillators, filters and envelopes closely model componentsfound in some of the greatest monophonic and polyphonic synthesizers.

Diva is pretty easy to use despite of the Interface looking a bit complex, with the only downside being that it’s quite CPU intensive.

However, this is worth it since it sounds absolutelyfantastic!

You can find out more about Diva by U-He here.

Are you looking for a new DAW? Here’s a list of the best DAWs currently available!

FM8 by Native Instruments (Windows, Mac)

Native Instruments is known for creating excellent pluginslike ElectricGuitar Amp Simulators, however one of their most iconic plugins must be theFM8.

The FM8 soft synth uses frequency modulation synthesis, justlike the Yamaha DX-7 which was responsible for the iconic sound of the 80s.

This isn’t a plugin that I would recommend to the absolute beginner since it’s not the easiest to use, but if you have the time and the patience you should be able to get some interesting sounds out of it!

This synth was even used by Skrillex, which is a cleartestament to its quality.

You can find out more about Native Instrument’s FM8 here.

Note: FM8 can be bought on its own or as part of the Komplete 12 Bundles.

These bundles are far more expensive than the single FM8 plugin, but you get loads of high-quality instruments when purchasing one of them.

Spire by Reveal Sound (Windows, Mac)

Used by famous artist Armin Van Buuren, Spire is a simpleyet great sounding hybrid synth that covers everything from analog to Hard FM.

It comes with loads of presets as well as all the onboard mixing tools you could ever need.

Spire may be mostly geared towards trance and other electronic music; however, it is also very capable of creating more unusualsounds which you didn’t think were possible for the typical virtual analoguesynth.

You can find out more about Spire by Reveal Sound here.

Related: Looking for guitar VST/AU plugins? Here are the 21 best ones.

Hive 2 by U-he (Windows, Mac, Linux)

Hive 2 is quick and uncomplicated, without sacrificingflexibility or audio quality.

It is a lightweight multipurpose synth with tons of functionality that is also super easy to use, which means that you’ll be creating great sounding patches in no time.

You can add movement and life using the shape sequencer, orinstantly record, rotate and arpeggiate note sequences.

The 12-slot matrix even lets you modulate effectparameters, encouraging you to explore a whole new world of creative options.

Hive 2 includes Wavetables which appear as multiple waveforms, and are controlled in the central hexagon.

You can manually select wavetables, modulate the waveposition via the matrix, or even scan through them automatically using theenvelope and loop options.

You can find out more about Hive 2 by U-he here.

Massive by Native Instruments (Windows, Mac)

Native Instruments is one of the best plugin companies out there, and Massive is no exception to this rule. In fact, I find myself recommending it a lot lately!

It has been around since the early days of soft synths andis one of the people’s favorites.

Massive was designed to create basses and make them asMassive as possible.

The interface is fairly clean, easy and intuitive to use, at least when compared to other synths, which means that if you’re completely new to the world of synthesizers, this one might be a good choice.

Massive is one of the go-to synths for bass music as well as electronic music.

You can find out more about Massive by Native Instruments here.

Important note: Native Instruments came out with Massive X recently.

Massive X is a completely rethought and rewired version of Massive which you should also consider.

Serum by Xfer Records (Windows, Mac)

Serum is one of the most famous soft synths out there; It is a Wavetable synthesizer and it has virtually no processing limitations, which makes it incredibly powerful.

It can load up sounds and transform them into wavetables,plus it’s super easy to use since the UI is very easy to understand andnavigate.

Serum also features 10 effects, drag and drop routing, and loads of presets.

You can find out more about Serum by Xfer Records here.

Circle2 by Future Audio Workshop (Windows, Mac)

Circle2 is a wavetable synthesizer that focuses on a streamlined workflow and creativity, and which has been consistently used by artists such as David Guetta and Deadmau5.

One cool thing about Circle2 is that everything you need isin the main window.

This means that you don’t have to go “menu diving” in order to get to the settings you need.

The UI is super intuitive since it allows you to drag anddrop anything you need.

Not only does Circle2 feature 110 wavetables, loads ofeffects and over 300 sounds, but it also offers a step sequencer, NativeInstruments NKS Support, an arpeggiator, and a lot more.

You can find out more about Circle2 by Future Audio Workshop here.

SEM V by Arturia (Windows, Mac)

The Arturia SEM V is an emulation of the classic OberheimSEM.

The SEM module was originally made to compliment othersynthesizers but later came into its own as a great sounding synth.

At the time the unique filter that allowed continuouslyvariable operation from low pass to high pass gave it a sound that no otherhad.

SEM V delivers all the deep analog sounds that made itsancestor so unique and praised by recreating the tone, waveshapes, and otherdetailed characteristics.

If you want to be able to have some of that analog goodnessfor your music, then give SEM V a shot.

You can find out more about SEM V by Arturia here.

VPS Avenger by Vengeance Sound (Windows, Mac)

Avenger is a very powerful synth that unites analog,wavetable, and sample-based synthesis.

It comes with over 1000 presets, loads of effects and filtertypes, and more…

Not only is it a powerful synthesizer but it also features an onboard drum sequencer, arpeggiator, step sequencer, chord detection module, and a lot more, and you can import and convert ANY 1 cycle waveform sample into an Oscillator shape.

Once the waveform is imported, you can transform it in everydirection possible.

You can freely draw your own OSC shapes – use a pencilor draw lines, use smoothening parameters or normalize, fade in/outs tohelp create every shape imaginable.

In regards to the drum kits, Avenger comes with more than160 Drum-Kits from all possible genres, while each drum-kit holds 12x perfectlymixed and matched drum samples.

You can find out more about Avenger by Vengeance Sound here.

Native Instruments Reaktor 6 (Windows, Mac)

If you like building patches from scratch, then Reaktor 6 isdefinitely for you.

Its previous version, Reaktor 5, is one of the few pieces ofsoftware that could survive for up to ten years without receiving any updatesand still be relevant, which is impressive.

Reaktor 6 also provides a platform for modular synthesis inthe form of Blocks – a range of sound generating and sound shaping modules.

You can patch them together to create new and unique modularsynthesizers, effects chains, complex sequencers, and more.

With its various oscillators and filters, which soundfantastic, as well as its analog-style sounds, Reaktor 6 is one of the bestSynthesizers you could ever get.

The only cons I can think of with this plugin is that it canseem a little complicated to use at first, and it’s a bit CPU intensive as well…

You can find out more about Reaktor 6 by Native Instruments here.

Synthmaster One by KV331 Audio (Windows, Mac)

SynthMaster One is an easy to use wavetable synthesizer withan intuitive workflow.

Although it shares the same engine with its bigger brotherSynthMaster, it comes with new features like wavetable synthesis.

With its simple layout, rich wavetable/waveform content andinspiring factory presets library, designing new sounds with SynthMaster One isextremely easy to do.

This is one of the most affordable plugins on this wholelist, plus it’s so easy to use that anyone, even without prior experience, canuse it!

This is why I’d absolutely recommend it to all the beginnersout there.

Not only that, but if you like it and you want some added functionality, you can purchase upgrade bundles.

You can find out more about Synthmaster One by KV331 Audio here.

Pigments by Arturia (Windows, Mac)

Pigments is an immensely powerful wavetable and virtualanalog software synthesizer.

It features a twin audio engine, letting you mix virtualanalog and wavetable oscillators to create the perfect starting point for yourpatch.

You can even morph wavetables, or import your own.

Experiment with 3 envelopes, 3 LFOs, and 3 functiongenerators…

Process your patch with contemporary effects like wavefolderand multifilter, or vintage studio reverbs, delays, and EQs.

If you can imagine a sound, Pigments can probably create it!

Find out more about Pigments by Arturia here.

Repro-1 by U-he (Windows, Mac)

Repro-1 would be the lightweight counterpart of U-he’sfamous plugin “Diva”, which is the first one of this list.

When you download Repro you not only get Repro-1 but alsoRepro-5.

Repro-1 is a monosynth: Two oscillators,self-oscillating 4-pole lowpass filter, arpeggiator, step sequencer, the uniquemodulation section, and five stomp-box effects which can be arranged in anyorder.

Repro-5 shares a lot of sonic DNA with Repro-1, butadds new flavors and characteristics.

First of all, it’s Polyphonic: Play rich pads, shapethem using the resonant lowpass filter, drive the polyphonic distortion unit ashard as you like, and finally polish your sound with five built-in effects.

Repro-5 adds new dimensions to the familiar classicsound while keeping analogue authenticity.

You can find out more about Repro-1 by U-he here.

Absynth 5 by Native Instruments (Windows, Mac)

Absynth 5 is one of those synthesizers that has earned thereputation of being one of the go-to choices for any serious music producer.

It’s one of the most powerful synths out there, with theonly issue being how difficult it is to use since the interface doesn’t reallyallow you to navigate it easily.

Having said that, if you know your way around synthesizersor if you don’t mind investing some time into it, then Absynth 5 is an absolutemust.

You can find out more about Absynth 5 by Native Instruments here.

Harmor by Image-Line (Windows only)

Harmor, which was developed by the same people who createdFL Studio, is driven by a powerful additive synthesis engine.

Its modules will look familiar to subtractive synthesizerenthusiasts: oscillators, filters & phasers, these are featured in Harmorbut, because performed through additive synthesis, offer more freedom.

Just like with the previous synth on this list, Harmor canseem a bit intimidating on first sight.

However, what it lacks in ease-of-use it more than makes upin overall quality of the sounds.

Free Synth Vst Plugins For Fl Studio

You can find out more about Harmor by Image-Line here.

Free alternatives

I wrote another post where I listed the free synth plugins that I considered to be the best ones, here are three of those;

Dexed by Digital Sub Urban (Windows, Mac)

Dexed is a Free multi platform and multi format frequency modulation Synth which is based on, or closely modeled to, the Yamaha DX7.

It isn’t the simplest synth to use… there is definitely a learning curve to it, but I honestly think that it’s well worth it to do the effort and learn it properly.

It is also a MIDI cartridge manager for the DX7 meaning that any of the .syx files in the cartridges will be available from the “Cart” window.

You can access this directory by pressing the “Cart” button and then the “Show Dir” button.

You can find out more about Dexed by Digital Sub Urban here.

Surge by Vember Audio (Windows, Mac, Linux)

Surge is an opensource Synth VST that sounds fantastic and is considered by many to be the best free synthesizer plugin currently available.

It is a hybrid subtractive synthesizer with a dual synthesis engine.

Each patch contain two ‘scenes’, which are separate instances of the entire synthesis engine that can be used for layering or split patches.

In addition to this, it also features three oscillators per voice, 8 oscillator algorithms, Two filter units in 8 different configurations, 12 LFO units available0 (6 are per voice and 6 are global for the whole scene), 7 deformable LFO waveforms plus a drawable/step sequencer waveform, and more.

As far as effects go, it features Delay, Reverb, Chorus, Phaser, EQ, Distortion, Conditioner (EQ, stereo-image control, and limiter), Rotary speaker, Frequency shifter and Vocoder.

Surge used to be a premium plugin and sold for roughly $99, but now it’s free and opensource.

It’s even getting updated consistently, meaning that there will be bug fixes over time and the plugin itself will get better and better.

Download it for free here.

Synth1 by Ichiro Toda (Windows, Mac)

Despite its old age, Synth1 is still extremely relevant today, and this is why I included it in this list, plus it works on both Windows and Mac OS on 32bit and 64bit systems.

This is one of those synth plugins that you should always keep in your arsenal since it sounds absolutely fantastic; it’s right up there with Surge and Dexed, at least as far as freeware synths go.

Synth1 is modeled on the Nord Lead 2 Synthesizer and you can download hundreds of presets for it.

It features two oscillators and one sub-oscillarot, FM modulation, ring mod., synchro, 4 types of filters, distortion, two LFO, arpeggiator, and much more.

It’s extremely light on the CPU and works on almost any OS and DAW.

Give it a try!

Download it for free here.

Top 3 Choices

If you don’t mind investing time into learning a complex but extremely good synth, then Absynth 5 is a great choice.

If you are completely new and want something that’s easy to learn and also affordable, then Synthmaster One might be the one.

Lastly, an overall great synth plugin is Serum.

And last but not least…

How can you learn to use a Synth the right way?

If you really want to learn as much as possible about synthesizers without wasting too much time, then I’d recommend enrolling in an online course like Beginner’s Guide to Synthesis.

This course covers all the basics and all the essential knowledge you need about synthesizers in order to produce modern music.

You’ll need a MIDI Controller

In order to be able to use these plugins properly, you will need some sort of MIDI Controller.

While you can use your mouse to map the MIDI in your DAW, it’s a lot faster and easier to do it with a keyboard/controller.

My recommendation here is for you to get something like the M-Audio Oxygen 25 MK IV MIDI Controller which you can find at Amazon at a very affordable price, plus it comes with some extra software like Pro Tools First.

Conclusion

No matter which of these synths you choose, they are allextremely good.

Some of them are extremely affordable while some other arequite pricy.

Which one you decideto go with entirely depends on your needs and budget.

I hope this information was useful…

Have a wonderful day!

F.A.Qs.

What is a synth VST?

Virtual Studio Technology (VST) is an audio plug-in software interface that integrates software synthesizers and effects units into digital audio workstations.

If you make music of any kind, you need to know about the best synth VST plugins available in 2021. Every year more bedroom producers are making great records using no more than a laptop, DAW, and soft synths. You don’t need a major label budget to create amazing music, and we are here to help you get on track. We have chosen our top 10 synth VSTs, including paid and free plugins, so no more excuses! Get started now.

Here are the best synth VST plugins 2021:

1. Spectrasonics Omnisphere 2

The king of VST synthesizers

Omnisphere 2 had to be number one because it’s the king of soft synths, as has been for some time. At the time of writing, Omnisphere is on version 2.6, which comes with some extensive updates. It now comes with over 14,000 sounds that cover just about every genre of music you can imagine.

The real beauty is in how deep into the sound design you can go, with up to 20 oscillators per patch. Oscillators can be DSP or sample-based, and there are over 500 DSP waveforms for the synth oscillator. There are also eight LFO’s per patch and 12 envelopes with ADSR or multi-breakpoint interfaces. Sounds can be layered, too, up to four layers per patch.

Omnisphere is the only soft synth with hardware synth integration. What that means is that if you own any of the supported 65+ classic hardware synths, you can use it as a controller for Omnisphere, so you have a hands-on workflow. Other updates include the unique arpeggiator with chord voicings, new step modifiers, and dividers; it’s huge.

Omnisphere is a very powerful granular synth as well, which is fantastic for adding texture variation to your patches. You can import audio files as a sound source for many Omnisphere tools, but it’s especially interesting with the granular synthesis. On top of everything else, there are 58 FX units, up to 34 filter algorithms in series or parallel, and much more.

It’s impossible to cover everything that Omnisphere 2 has to offer in a short overview. The depth of this soft synth is truly incredible, and with each update, it seems to get better and better. New features like the hardware synth integration and granular synthesis open it up to a new type of user. Even if you are a dedicated hardware enthusiast, Omnisphere 2 will make your production better.

We said it’s used by many, and some see that as a sign that they should find something different, but it’s so big, you can always find your unique sound. It does come at a cost, but if you have the money, it’s worth it. Omnisphere 2 is the best synth VST out there right now.

2. Arturia Pigments 2

The best newcomer

Arturia is renowned for incredible attention to detail, so when they say Pigments was 20 years in the making, you can expect it to be one of the best synth plugins money can buy.

The first thing that we loved about Pigments is the colorful, easy to use interface. Too many soft synths have such convoluted UI’s that put you off even starting, that’s not the case here. Pigments utilizes a twin audio engine, which lets you combine virtual analog and wavetable oscillators with a sample engine. That’s the starting point for your patch; from there, you have three envelopes, thee LFO’s, and three function generators to at your disposal.

Pigments 2 has three main screens, the synth page, the effects page, and the sequencer page. Everything is clean and well positioned for a super-fast workflow. The second version of Pigments has some significant upgrades, most notably, the new sample engine. With the new sample engine, there are hundreds of useable samples, plus you can upload your own. There are six upload slots with six different playback modes and numerous modulation options.

The new synth mode then lets you take those samples and transform them into unique granular synth patches. Also updated for Pigments 2 is the sequencer, which now allows you to add randomness to your sequence without losing its original form. So, in live performance, this tool lets you add some excitement to a phase then return to the original version. The built-in effects have also been overhauled, and now include the iconic Buchla Easel low pass gate amongst other awesome updates.

Even though it’s relatively new, Pigments 2 is one of our favorite soft synths ever. The main reason we like it so much is that it bridges the gap between basic synths and Omnisphere so well. It offers more than most plugins, yet does so in a way that’s incredibly easy to use. If you are ready to take the step from free plugins to something serious, Pigments 2 is perfect.

3. Arturia V Collection 7

Iconic hardware synths beautifully recreated

Arturia’s V Collection7 is their flagship VST, and it’s absolutely huge. Since it came on the scene,it has been one of the most popular software synths amongst professionalmusicians.

It’s something a little different from the rest of the synths we have chosen, in that it offers acoustic instruments as well as synthesizers. The V Collection 7 consists of 24 immaculately sampled classic keyboard instruments. Acoustic instruments include grand pianos, electric pianos, and the iconic B3 organ. The Synths cover decades of electronic progression with the Prophet 5, Modular V, DX7 V, and more.

So, let’s take a look at some of the synths, starting with the Prophet 5. The Prophet 5 is one of the most iconic synths ever made; this plugin mimics the analog Prophet 5 and the digital Prophet VS. Dave Smith’s Prophet 5 was the very first fully programmable synth that paved the way for modern polysynths today. It is a two-oscillator synth that was famous for its analog warmth. The Prophet VS is powered by digital vector synthesis and provides an entirely different soundscape. On their own, each of these synths is incredible, but the ability to blend the two is something that even hardware purists have to admit is pretty special.

Arturia partnered with synth legend Bob Moog to recreate the synth that started it all. The Modular V takes us back to the days of ELP and Keith Emerson in stunning detail. Arturia’s True Analog Emulation is showcased here in digitally reproducing one of the most complex analog circuits in all its glory. This synth is too vast to go into everything, but something that stands out is the insanely accurate recreation of the iconic Mg 24dB low-pass filter. It really captures that warm, smooth bottom end that only comes from a Bob Moog synth.

The DX7 V is pretty easy, to sum up, if you have heard any hit records from the ’80s, you have heard the DX7. It is undoubtedly one of the most prolifically used synths on chart-topping records. As a 16-voice polysynth, the DX7 blew away much of its competition in 1983 when it was first introduced. It covers everything from slap-bass patches, stunning electric pianos, to funky leads. If you want to capture the sound of a DX7, just think of Beverly Hills Cop’s Axel F theme tune, that’s the one!

Arturia’s V Collection 7 is an industry-standard, any studio with VSTs most likely has it. The detail in which these classic keyboard instruments have been recreated is mind-blowing. If you aren’t interested in the acoustic instruments, you can purchase individual synths, but the best value for money comes in buying the full collection. It’s the closest you will get to owning iconic hardware synths without spending thousands of dollars.

4. Korg Collection Special Bundle v2

All your favorite Korg’s in one place

Korg’s VST Collection brings its most iconic synths together in plugin form. There are eight synths in total, which are the Triton, ARP Odyssey, MS-20, Polysix, M1, Wavestation, Mono Poly, and MDE-X.

The Triton is to Korg what the Motif is to Yamaha; it’s an absolute powerhouse that changed the recording industry. So much care was taken in developing this plugin that the original Triton developers even supervised it. It comes with over 4,000 radio-ready preset sounds, and eight-part multi-timbre combis.

The Triton was well-known for its arpeggiator, and that is brought to life here with 307 arpeggiator patterns that create instantly useable phrases. The UI is nice and simple, with a quick search function for sounds or characters.

Korg’s ARP Odyssey is another synth that changed how many artists and producers approached making music. Through their proprietary Component Modeling Technology, Korg has replicated the true analog feeling of this synth in remarkable detail. But, they didn’t just stop there, they also made some improvements that are only possible through software. For example, higher polyphony and new built-in effects that make this a vintage synth with modern functionality.

All three generations of the ARP Odyssey synth are represented here, each with their own filter characteristics. The arpeggiator has been enhanced with new parameter programming options, and can now be tempo-synced to the LFO via external MIDI.

This collection is similar to Arturia’s V Collection 7, in the way that it models hardware synths. The one downside is that it only includes Korg synths, obviously. That isn’t a bad thing, they are all fantastic, but if you want more versatility, then it might not be for you. However, if you are a Korg fan, and we are, you will go nuts for these plugins! As one of the newest synthesizer plugins, it’s yet to be seen if it will last the test of time, but right now it looks very good indeed.

5. Native Instruments Massive X

The dubstep monster

Massive from Native Instruments is the plugin that fuelled the dubstep movement. Artists like Skrillex and Rusko latched onto Massive as soon as it was released, and it become the go to source for that growling wobble bass.

Massive X is the long awaited sequel to Massive, although it’s not a direct replacement. At heart, it’s still a wavetable synth, actually, it’s arguably the best wavetable synth VST there is. It has two oscillators rather then three found in the original Massive. The good news is, those two oscillators sport over 170 wavetables, far more than the original.

Included in those wavetables are remastered versions of some Massive classic like Crusher and Scrapyard. It also had double the number of wavetable modes as the original Massive with 10.

There are two noise generators that house over 100 looping samples, ranging from analog noise to mechanical sounds, and everything in between. Massive X has just a single filter, although it has nine types to choose from, and each type has multiple modes. The filter types are absolutely stunning, in particular the Asimov low-pass is gorgeous.

While Massive X has fewer filters and oscillators than the original Massive, there is the option to load more in one of the insert FX slots. Modulation is the area where the newer Massive X comes into its own. It offers up to 17 modulators assignable per parameter, which is, well, massive.

One of the stars of the new Massive X is the enhanced performers, which are monster step/curve sequencers. These are perfect for creating extended parameter movements. For live use, sequences can be up to eight bars in length, and each performer can hold up to 12 at a time. As far as effects go, Massive X allows three insert effects and three stereo master effects.

Massive X is an absolute monster, just like the original Massive. It’s huge, and it outperforms its predecessor in a few key areas, like the modulators, especially the performers.

It does have its flaws, too, for example, you can’t upload your own wavetables, and you’d expect more effects with a synth of this stature. You could argue that with over 170 wavetables available, there’s no need to upload your own, but the option would be nice. All in all, this soft synth is another huge hit from Native Instruments.

6. TAL NoiseMaker

Korg Synth Vst Plugins

The perfect introduction to VST synths

TAL’s NoiseMaker is the first free synth to make it onto our list, yes that’s right, it’s free! It’s our highest-rated free synth VST!

NoiseMaker comes in VST and AU plugin formats, and works with DAWs on both Windows and Mac OS. It features two oscillators (with sub-oscillator), two LFO modules, a multi-mode filter, and some nice built-in effects.

Oscillators one and two can sync to the sub-oscillator to create some massive sounds. It offers up to six voices with mono and poly modes available. If you just want to get straight into playing, there are 256 presets, some of which are surprisingly good.

The UI is very simple as you’d expect from a free plugin, but that’s good, it makes it easy to use. The main screen is very clean, with oscillators, LFOs, and envelope controls clearly labeled. As well as the main envelope section (ADSR), there is a fully editable envelope that can be used as a modulation source for different parameters. For example, it can be used to create some pretty nasty bass wobbles using filter automation, think Skrillex at his filthiest.

The built-in effects include some reverbs, delay, a bitcrusher, and a dual chorus. As far as free plugins go, NoiseMaker has a fairly advanced synthesis engine. It can be used to create anything from warm analog-sounding pads to absolutely chaotic, screaming lead patches.

For anyone who wants to learn how to use synth VST plugins, NoiseMaker is a great way to start. It’s a very simple synth, with a simple UI that will teach you the basics very well.

If we put this next to a synth that costs hundreds of dollars, there will be no comparison; it’s not a high-end plugin. But that’s not to say it can’t sound good and serve you very well in your music production. Considering it’s free, it punches well above its weight; there is absolutely no reason not to own NoiseMaker. Get it while it’s available.

7. TAL BassLine-101

The vintage synth bass master

Synth Vst Plugins

We had to include this synth because it’s so cheap, and we just love some bass! BassLine-101 doesn’t officially share anything in common with Roland, but it’s incredibly similar to Roland’s legendary SH-101 bass synth. What’s even better is that it recreates that iconic sound so well for such a low price.

The UI showsindividual level sliders for pulse, saw, noise, and the sub-oscillatorwaveforms. Like the SH-101, the sub-oscillator is limited to two pulse widths,which are one or two octaves below the primary oscillator. Despite seeming likea simple setup, with some creative mixing, you can come up with some veryinteresting waveforms.

BassLine-101’s filter is a 24dB resonant low-pass, self-oscillating filter. It can be modulated via the envelope generator, LFO, or keyboard. The envelope is pretty standard (ADSR), and stays true to the SH-101. Despite only having one envelope, you can modulate the amp separately if yo switch to gate mode.

The LFO offers saw, square, random, and noise shapes, again just like the SH-101.

If it were purely about value for money, BassLine-101 might be the best soft synth in our top 10. It’s harsh to say anything negative about this plugin. We mentioned that it only has a single envelope, but the same can be said about the SH-101, and it’s one of the things that give it a unique sound.

There are a lot of synths, that we won’t name, that try to emulate the SH-101, and they don’t all get it right. TAL got it right with BassLine-101, and provide it at a ridiculously low price. If you like synth bass at all, you should own BassLine-101.

Best Synth Vst Plugins For Fl Studio

• Our in-depth TAL BassLine-101 video review

8. Dexed by Digital Suburban

The FM sounds of the 80s

Dexed is a popularfree synth VST that in no way looks like a free synth plugin. This Yamaha DX7emulator comes with a UI that would look at home on most paid synths.

Digital Suburban arethe developers behind Dexed, and it’s come a long way since it’s debutappearance. The stylish UI that we mentioned wasn’t always present; it startedoff as a very cheap and dull-looking interface that we are glad to see changefor the better.

There are quite a few FM synth VSTs out there, like Native Instruments FM8, or Arturia’s DX7 V. It’s not outrageous to say that Dexed might be the most feature-packed, easiest to use, and the most stable of the lot. It comes with a large number of presets, which make it easy to get started straight away. There are 32 sound banks that each contain 32 presets, from electric pianos, to synth brass, and more.

Dexed was originally intended to be a software partner for the hardware DX7 synth. It still works as a program editor for the hardware Yamaha synth, which is handy if you have one. FM synth plugins are sometimes a bit tedious, but Dexed lets you get to the sounds you want easily.

Dexed is a free synth that could probably sell for around the $50 mark, so there is no downside to it. If you are a fan of that classic DX7 sound, then you should already own Dexed; if not, you should get it now. If you aren’t a fan of that sound, get it anyway, it’s free and as a producer, the more options you have, the better.

9. Surge Synthesizer

The almost perfect free synth

Surge was firstreleased in 2006 and sold for over $100 back in the day. Now, it’s available asa free download, and it’s packed with some pretty impressive features.

It’s a hybrid-subtractive synth with a dual synth engine, and three oscillators per voice. There are eight oscillator algorithms, including analog, FM, and wavetable. It has a whopping 183 wavetables, and two filters with eight filter types, along with 12 customizable LFOs per voice. You can see straight away; there’s a lot to play with here, especially for a free plugin.

Adding to the sound design potential are eight FX slots with 10 FX types and a modulation matrix. As well as the quite extensive sound-shaping options, there are 1,010 presets with some absolute gems in there.

The UI isn’t the easiest to navigate, which is why it isn’t higher on our list. Although the massive amount of presets are organized into categories for quick browsing, which helps a lot. The issue is that the interface is relatively small, and requires more menu-diving than you’d want. Previously, Surge was only available for Windows, but thankfully, Mac OS is now supported.

Synth Vst Plug-ins For Fl Studio

It’s hard to believe that such a monster of a synth is available as a free plugin. However, the UI is an issue; it’s not the most intuitive interface, to say the least. But, when you get it for free, you can’t complain too much. Despite the UI being quite fiddly, some of the presets are worth the effort. To sum it up, it could have been the best free synth VST, but expect to get frustrated with the UI, so use it sparingly.

10. VCV Rack

The ultimate modular plugin for beginners

Don’t be fooled by VCVRack placing last on our list; this virtual modular synth is well worth a look.

Modular synthesis is a vast and expensive world, VCV Rack is the closest you will get to modular gear in software form without spending any money. The most significant aspect of modular gear is the workflow, and this plugin captures it better than most.

The workflow of any VST relies on a solid UI, and with virtual modular synths, the patch cables hanging everywhere can make it very messy. Thankfully, VCV Rack mages to maintain a very clean/clear interface.

The quality of the individual modules that make up VCV Rack isn’t anything spectacular. In truth, the oscillators, filters, and so on are very average. So, don’t expect to create patches that sound like high-end hardware, because it’s not even close.

The reason we have included VCV Rack in our top 10 is that it’s a fantastic learning tool. In the past, VCV Rack was only available as a standalone application, but it’s now functional as a plugin inside your DAW.

It might seem a little hasty to include this synth in our top 10. Especially since we don’t have anything too good to say about how it sounds, but there is method to our madness. Hardware modular synths can be very expensive, and very addictive once you get started. It’s a good idea to know what you are doing before you start throwing your hard earned money around.

What better way to learn the basics that with a free VST with a fantastic interface? Even if you rarely (or never) use it on a final mix, it’s well worth spending some time practicing on VCV Rack. It will save you time and money later on.

Conclusion

When we thought about choosing the 10 best VST synth plugins, we wanted to take into account different budgets, requirements, and ability levels. So, do we have the 10 best VST synth plugins overall? Probably not (although our top 5 certainly fit that category). But, we do have the best mix of sound quality, user-friendly GUIs, value for money, and potential to learn/progress as a producer. That means our top 10 has something for everyone, and we love every one of these awesome synths.

James is a writer and musician with a passion for audio production. He is a lover of all things tech, especially the latest keyboards, synths, DAW’s, virtual instruments, and effects plugins. Musical interests include jazz, funk, hip hop, blues, and rock.