14 Best Synth VST Plugins: Synthesis Spectrum (2024)

Welcome to the ultimate guide on the Best Synth VST Plugins! In the world of electronic music, having the right synth at your disposal is like having the perfect palette of colors for a painter. But, with countless plugins out there, how do you know which ones will help you create that masterpiece you’ve been dreaming of?

That’s where we come in!

This article is your one-stop-shop for exploring the top synth VST plugins that have been making waves in the music industry. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned producer, our comprehensive guide will introduce you to a range of plugins, each with unique strengths, that are sure to inspire your creative endeavors.

Our selection criteria are stringent – we look at the quality of sound, versatility, user-friendliness, and the overall value these plugins provide. From lush pads and mind-bending soundscapes to electrifying leads and earth-shattering bass, these plugins have got you covered.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of synth VST plugins and find the perfect match for your sonic explorations. Prepare to have your mind blown by the vast possibilities that lie ahead!

Virtual Analog & Modeling Synth VST Plugins:

Arturia Pigments

The Powerhouse of Sonic Alchemy

Overview:

Arturia Pigments, the Powerhouse of Sonic Alchemy, is not just a synth plugin; it’s a universe of sound waiting to be explored. This multifaceted gem, developed by the well-respected Arturia, gives you an extraordinary level of control over your sound design.

This synth is quite literally packed with features: a dual-engine architecture, where you can choose from virtual analog, wavetable, granular, or sampling, makes this plugin incredibly versatile. This means that whether you’re after warm, classic tones or groundbreaking, edgy sounds, Pigments has got you covered.

Moreover, the modulation options are virtually limitless, letting you breathe life into your sounds and make them evolve over time. This is further amplified by an extensive effects section, adding that final touch to your sonic creations.

Yet, despite its complexity, Pigments manages to maintain a user-friendly and intuitive interface, making it accessible even to less experienced producers. The colorful, well-organized layout is not only pleasing to the eye but also greatly simplifies navigation, leaving more room for creativity.

Final Thoughts:

Arturia Pigments stands out as a complete synth solution that can tackle any sound design task you throw at it. It’s not merely a plugin, but a comprehensive tool that could be the central hub of your synth-based productions.

So, why not add some color to your tracks with Pigments? Get ready to dive into an ocean of sound and discover the incredible sonic possibilities it offers. Are you prepared to unleash your creativity?

U-he Diva

Revive the Golden Era of Analog Synths

Overview:

Step into the world of U-he Diva, where the golden era of analog synthesizers is reborn with stunning accuracy. If you crave the warmth and richness of classic analog synths, Diva is your ticket back in time.

Diva stands out in the crowd for its unparalleled emulation of vintage analog circuits. Every dial, every slider, every function captures the essence of historic synths, delivering sounds that are incredibly close to their hardware counterparts.

But what makes Diva a true diva? It’s the freedom to mix and match different components from various iconic synths, letting you craft a unique sound that is entirely yours. From oscillators to filters, each module is at your disposal, offering a dynamic workflow that mimics having an entire collection of classic synths at your fingertips.

Add a cherry on top with quality effects. From sparkling reverbs to thick choruses, Diva has the extra polish your tracks need.

Diva doesn’t stop at just providing the raw sounds, it also gives you detailed control over your sound. Every parameter can be tweaked to your liking, allowing you to dig deeper into sound design.

Final Thoughts:

U-he Diva isn’t just a synthesizer; it’s a time machine that takes you back to the golden age of analog synths. It brings an authentic vintage vibe to the digital realm like no other.

Why wait? Start your journey with Diva today and create tracks with a timeless character that only true analog sound can provide.

D16 Lush-2

The Analog Emulation Extraordinaire

Overview:

In the vast sea of digital synthesizers, D16 Lush-2 stands as an analog emulation extraordinaire, capable of delivering classic, warm, and richly textured sounds. Reminiscent of vintage hardware synths, yet housed within the convenience of your digital workspace, Lush-2 serves as your go-to plugin for that timeless analog feel.

At the heart of Lush-2 lies its sixteen voices of polyphony, allowing you to create those lush chords and textures that give this plugin its name. This feature, combined with its accurate analog emulation, brings an unparalleled richness to your sonic palette, opening up a world of sound that is both nostalgically classic and refreshingly modern.

But the capabilities of Lush-2 go beyond mere sound reproduction. With its extensive modulation options and a high-quality effects section, this plugin invites you to dive deep into sound sculpting. Whether you’re tweaking the filters, adjusting the envelopes, or applying effects, the Lush-2 gives you the controls to shape your sound with surgical precision.

Final Thoughts:

The D16 Lush-2 embodies a perfect marriage of the old and the new, bringing the sought-after warmth of analog synths into the digital domain. If you’re seeking a synth that provides that elusive analog magic, look no further.

Dive into the lush landscapes of sound with D16 Lush-2 today. Your productions deserve that analog warmth!

Wavetable Synth VST Plugins:

Xfer Records Serum

The Cutting-Edge Wavetable Synthesizer

Overview:

Xfer Records Serum is a trailblazer in the world of wavetable synthesis, offering a robust toolset for crafting intricate, modern sounds. This Cutting-Edge Wavetable Synthesizer sits confidently in the studios of top producers worldwide, and for a good reason.

With Serum, sound design becomes an interactive experience. Its high-resolution wavetable engine delivers a remarkable level of clarity, enabling the creation of rich and detailed sounds. From hard-hitting basses to ethereal pads, the possibilities are endless.

The serum’s interface, apart from being pleasing to the eye, offers real-time visual feedback, which is not only informative but also inspiring. This gives you an immediate understanding of what’s happening with your sound, making your sound design process more intuitive and efficient.

Add to that the immense modulation capabilities, and you get a playground for creating dynamic, evolving sounds. Plus, the advanced unison settings allow you to stack up multiple voices and detune them for incredibly wide and lush sounds.

Final Thoughts:

Xfer Records Serum is more than just a synth plugin; it’s a powerhouse that provides a level of control and clarity that’s hard to match. If you’re after a plugin that can take your sound design to the next level, Serum is a fantastic choice.

Why wait? Embark on your sound design journey with Serum today and see where your creativity takes you. Ready to shape your sound?

NI Massive X

Unleashing the Beast of Wavetable Synthesis

Overview:

Massive X, from Native Instruments, is a mammoth in the world of software synthesizers. It’s the next generation of the legendary Massive synth, and it takes everything up a notch. Are you ready to meet the beast?

In the heart of Massive X lies its highly flexible modulation architecture. With multiple envelopes, LFOs, and other modulation sources, you have unlimited possibilities to shape and morph your sounds. It’s like an extensive playground for your creativity.

The filter section is just as versatile, offering a wide range of types and modes. From classic to cutting-edge, you can sculpt your sound to perfection. Then, add depth and character with the high-quality effects. Reverb, delay, distortion, and more – Massive X has got you covered.

But what really sets Massive X apart is its advanced routing capabilities. Want to route an LFO to control the delay time? Or use an envelope to shape the reverb tail? With Massive X, you can! It invites you to experiment, to push boundaries, and to create truly unique sounds.

Final Thoughts:

Native Instruments Massive X is more than just a synthesizer. It’s a powerful tool for sound design, a platform for creativity, and a means to create sonic landscapes that are uniquely yours. So, why not give it a spin? Discover the power of Massive X and let your sonic imagination run wild. Are you ready to embark on this journey?

Tracktion F.’em

The Unconventional FM Synth

Overview:

Dive into the realm of frequency modulation with Tracktion F.’em, a truly unconventional FM synth that takes sound design to new heights. F.’em is known for its advanced features and flexibility, offering a world of possibilities to those daring enough to venture into its depths.

F.’em stands out from the crowd with its 11 operator configurations. These open up an unparalleled array of sonic possibilities, allowing you to delve deep into FM synthesis and create sounds that are truly unique.

The synth doesn’t hold back on sound generators and modulation options either. With four sound generators and flexible modulation, you can create complex sounds with ease. Additionally, the powerful onboard effects and wave shaping expand the sonic capabilities further.

But what sets F.’em apart is its user-friendly interface. It boasts visualization tools that help you understand what’s happening with your sound, making the often daunting world of FM synthesis more accessible.

Final Thoughts:

Tracktion F.’em is more than just an FM synth – it’s an exploratory tool for sound designers and producers who aren’t afraid to push the boundaries. If you’re ready for a deep dive into the world of FM synthesis, why not let F.’em be your guide? Embrace the complexity, and let your sonic creations come to life. Are you ready to redefine your sound?

Vengeance-Sound VPS Avenger

The Swiss Army Knife of Synths: All-Purpose Powerhouse

Overview:

Step into a world of endless sonic possibilities with Vengeance-Sound VPS Avenger, a powerhouse synthesizer that offers the flexibility to create any sound you can imagine. Blending the principles of wavetable and virtual analog synthesis, the VPS Avenger defines itself as the Swiss Army Knife of synths, ready to tackle any musical challenge you throw its way.

The driving force behind the Avenger’s extraordinary capabilities is its broad modulation functionality and an immense library of presets, samples, and wavetables. This synthesizer is not merely a tool; it’s a canvas for your imagination, providing the framework to delve deep into the intricacies of sound design and construct intricate and distinctive sounds with comfort and precision.

In addition, the Avenger shines with its impressive effects section and intuitive sequencer. These features amplify its versatility, allowing for further tailoring of your sound and providing an intuitive pathway to synchronize your synth patterns seamlessly. It’s as if every element of the VPS Avenger was crafted with the producer’s creative freedom in mind.

Tone2 Icarus2

Your Gateway to Waveform Exploration

Overview:

Enter the expansive world of waveform synthesis with Tone2 Icarus2, a synthesizer that champions flexibility and innovation. Icarus2 stands out in the crowded plugin market as a high-fidelity wavetable synthesizer that transforms your production journey into an exploration of sound.

Powerful, flexible, and boasting a 3D wavetable synthesis, Icarus2 allows you to traverse sonic territories that were previously out of reach. Its impressive effects section and arpeggiator work in harmony with the synth engine, providing you the tools to weave complex and intricate soundscapes.

But where Icarus2 truly shines is in its vast modulation matrix. This feature enables in-depth sound design that can breathe life into any production. From subtle movements to drastic transformations, your sound design possibilities are virtually limitless.

Final Thoughts:

Icarus2 from Tone2 is not just a wavetable synthesizer; it’s your personal spacecraft for navigating the endless universe of sound. If you’re ready to elevate your productions with the power of waveform synthesis, Icarus2 is your co-pilot.

Embark on your sonic exploration today with Tone2 Icarus2. Experience the thrill of sound design like never before!

Hybrid Synth VST Plugins:

Spectrasonics Omnisphere 2

The Universe of Sound Exploration

Overview:

Ready to voyage into the cosmos of sound synthesis? Meet Spectrasonics Omnisphere 2, a tool that offers you the universe of audio exploration.

Imagine having a library packed with over 14,000 sounds at your disposal. The Omnisphere 2 makes this a reality, providing an extensive range of sounds to choose from, enough to spark a lifetime of creativity. Whether you’re creating ethereal atmospheres or hard-hitting bass lines, this plugin can cater to your every need.

What sets Omnisphere 2 apart is its remarkable sound design capabilities. You have the freedom to manipulate waveforms, modulate effects, and dive deep into sound shaping with flexible envelopes and LFOs. Each patch can be further tweaked to create a sound that’s truly yours.

But the magic doesn’t stop there. The Omnisphere 2 flaunts a unique feature – Hardware Synth Integration. It opens the door to a hands-on experience, transforming over 65 well-known hardware synthesizers into extensive hands-on controllers.

Add to this the advanced arpeggiator, granular synthesis, and a treasure trove of unique psychoacoustic sounds, and you’ve got a plugin that is a dream come true for any sound designer.

Final Thoughts

Spectrasonics Omnisphere 2 is more than a synth; it’s a platform for the limitless exploration of sound. From its comprehensive sound library to its powerful sound design tools, it’s an instrument that stands tall in the world of music production.

Are you ready to let Omnisphere 2 become your sonic exploration spacecraft? Take control today and let the sound journey begin.

Kilohearts Phase Plant

A Modular Synth Playground for the Creative Mind

Overview:

Unleash your creativity with Kilohearts Phase Plant, the modular synth playground that turns your wildest sound design dreams into reality. Phase Plant is the epitome of versatility, offering a vast canvas for those who love to push the boundaries of synthesis.

At the heart of Phase Plant lies its highly customizable modular system. Whether you want to craft a simple patch or a complex soundscape, Phase Plant can handle it all. You are only limited by your imagination.

Phase Plant’s sound generators and effects don’t disappoint either. With pristine quality and an extensive selection, these components allow you to craft sounds that range from the classic to the outright bizarre.

The unique design of Phase Plant adds to its appeal. Its interface is clean and intuitive, with all components readily accessible. This makes it easy to dive in and start creating without a steep learning curve.

Final Thoughts:

Kilohearts Phase Plant takes the power of modular synthesis and places it in a digital environment, combining versatility and convenience. Whether you’re a seasoned sound designer or a synth enthusiast, Phase Plant offers a creative playground that is both fun and inspiring.

Why not take the plunge into the modular world with Phase Plant today? Experience the joy of creating unique and complex sounds from scratch. The world of modular synthesis awaits!

UVI Falcon

The Ultimate Sonic Sculpting Workstation

Overview:

Unleash your creative potential with UVI Falcon, a hybrid synth that offers an unparalleled sonic palette. It’s not just a synthesizer; it’s an extensive sound design tool capable of handling multiple synthesis types simultaneously.

Falcon’s main strength lies in its versatility. The hybrid engine combines both subtractive and wavetable synthesis, catering to a wide range of sonic needs. This extensive range is further supplemented by a generous modulation section and an array of effects.

While it may seem complex, Falcon is designed to encourage experimentation. The interface is well laid out, making it easier for you to understand and manipulate the various parameters. Moreover, the vast library of presets ensures you always have a source of inspiration.

Final Thoughts:

UVI Falcon offers the depth, flexibility, and power to shape your sound with a level of detail and control that’s truly inspiring. It’s a synthesizer that doesn’t just play notes; it invites you to sculpt them.

Ready to dive into a world of limitless sound design? Get your hands on UVI Falcon today and begin your sonic adventure.

Steinberg HALion 7

Synthesis and Sampling: A Harmonious Blend

Overview:

Embark on a unique musical journey with Steinberg HALion 7, a fusion of synthesis and sampling. By bridging these two worlds, HALion 7 offers an all-encompassing toolkit for your sound creation needs.

The duality of HALion 7 is its cornerstone. The sampler engine delivers an impressive range of high-quality sounds, while the synth section allows for intricate sound sculpting. This combination makes it the perfect platform for any sound design task.

But, HALion 7 doesn’t stop at providing a broad sonic palette. It also equips you with an advanced sound design interface. Despite its complexity, it remains intuitive and user-friendly, making it an ideal choice for both novices and experienced sound designers.

Final Thoughts:

Steinberg HALion 7 is more than a synth; it’s a comprehensive sound design hub. If you’re looking for a tool that lets you explore the depths of sound shaping while maintaining an efficient workflow, HALion 7 is your perfect companion.

Why limit yourself to one world when you can enjoy the best of both? Experience the harmonious blend of synthesis and sampling with Steinberg HALion 7 today. Your sonic adventure awaits!

ROLI Equator2

Mastering MPE: The New Standard in Expressive Synthesis

Overview:

Enter a new dimension of musical expression with ROLI Equator2, the next-generation MPE synthesizer. Designed to harness the full power of MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE), Equator2 takes your music to unprecedented levels of expressive detail.

At the heart of Equator2 is its MPE functionality. This allows each note to have its own expressive characteristics, from pitch bend to timbre variations, opening a world of possibilities for the dynamic creation of emotive music.

Equator2 comes with an extensive library of over 400 presets, catering to a wide array of genres and moods. Whether you’re crafting intricate soundscapes or laying down heavy basslines, you’ll find the perfect starting point in Equator2’s diverse sound library.

Final Thoughts:

ROLI Equator2 stands as a testament to the evolution of music production technology. It not only allows you to create music, but also to feel and express it in ways you’ve never imagined.

Don’t just make music. Immerse yourself in it. Discover the true power of MPE with ROLI Equator2 today. It’s time to elevate your sound.

Synthesizer Collections VST Plugins:

Arturia V Collection

A Vault of Vintage Synths at Your Fingertips

Overview:

Dive into the golden age of analog synthesis with Arturia V Collection, your gateway to a host of legendary vintage synths and keyboards. This comprehensive suite offers high-quality emulations of iconic gear, taking you on a sonic journey through time.

What makes the V Collection exceptional is Arturia’s dedication to recreating the character and nuances of the original instruments. Thanks to their TAE® (True Analog Emulation) technology, each synth in the collection delivers an authentic and warm analog sound, replicating the original gear’s distinctive features and idiosyncrasies.

Navigating the myriad of sounds available can seem daunting, but Arturia ensures a user-friendly experience. The interface is intuitive, and the suite integrates seamlessly with Arturia’s KeyLab controllers, allowing for a more tactile and immersive experience.

Final Thoughts:

The Arturia V Collection is like a treasure chest for synth enthusiasts, filled with the sonic jewels of the past. Whether you’re after the creamy sound of a vintage Moog or the cutting edge of a classic DX7, it’s all here at your fingertips.

So, are you ready to unlock the vintage charm of yesteryear? Dive into the V Collection today and let your creativity run wild.

FAQ Buying Guide: Best Synth VST Plugins

When exploring the vast realm of Synth VST plugins, understanding the tools’ capabilities and features is paramount. This guide seeks to clarify the intricate facets of synthesizers, ensuring that music producers can select the ideal plugin for their sonic vision.

• What are Synth VST plugins and why are they essential for modern music production?

  Synth VST plugins digitally recreate or emulate the sounds and functionalities of hardware synthesizers. They offer a versatile tool for sound design, enabling producers to craft unique tones, from atmospheric pads to aggressive leads, vital for various music genres.

• What's the difference between subtractive, FM, and wavetable synthesis in Synth VSTs?

  Subtractive Synthesis: It starts with a rich waveform (like a sawtooth or square wave) and then “subtracts” frequencies using filters.

  FM Synthesis (Frequency Modulation): It involves modulating one waveform with another to create complex harmonic sounds. It’s known for its iconic electric piano and bass sounds.

  Wavetable Synthesis: It plays back waveforms from a table of different waves, allowing for evolving timbres and a wide range of sonic possibilities.

• Why do some Synth VSTs offer analog emulation?

  Analog emulation in Synth VSTs aims to capture the warm and organic sound characteristics of vintage hardware synthesizers. These plugins often recreate non-linearities, drift, and saturation to provide a rich, vintage tone, prized in many music genres.

• How crucial are presets and sound libraries in Synth VSTs?

  Presets provide quick access to a wide array of professionally designed sounds. They can serve as a starting point for sound design, inspire new tracks, or offer direct solutions for producers. An extensive sound library can greatly enhance a synth’s versatility.

• Why do some Synth VSTs come with built-in sequencers and arpeggiators?

  Built-in sequencers and arpeggiators allow for pattern-based sound manipulation and rhythmic variations. They can bring life to static sounds, creating moving sequences or pulsating rhythms, enhancing the dynamic feel of a track.

• How do modulation options like LFOs and envelopes shape the sound in Synth VSTs?

  LFOs (Low-Frequency Oscillators) and envelopes influence various parameters of the sound over time. They can affect pitch, filter cutoff, volume, and more, allowing for dynamic changes and adding movement and depth to the sound.

• What's the significance of polyphony and voice stacking in Synth VSTs?

  Polyphony refers to the number of notes a synth can play simultaneously. Voice stacking allows multiple voices to play per note, thickening the sound. These features determine the richness and fullness of chords or layered sounds in your production.

• How do onboard effects enhance the capabilities of Synth VSTs?

  Onboard effects, like reverb, delay, and distortion, can immediately transform and shape the sound within the synth environment. This internal processing can lead to a more cohesive sound design and streamlined workflow.

• Why is the user interface and visual feedback vital in Synth VSTs?

  A well-designed user interface aids in easy navigation, promotes efficient sound design, and often provides visual feedback, like waveforms or modulation routing. This can help users understand the signal flow and the impact of their adjustments.

• How do I ensure compatibility and integration of a Synth VST with my DAW?

  Always check the supported formats (VST, AU, AAX) and platform (Mac/Windows) of the Synth VST. Most modern plugins support common DAWs, but it’s essential to ensure compatibility to avoid software conflicts.