Aalto vs MSoundFactory

Aalto is a semi-modular software synthesizer by Madrona Labs, built around a patchable interface. Its complex oscillator offers FM, timbre, and waveshape controls, calculating sound dynamically rather than using static wavetables. Every voice has a built-in sequencer with independently controllable, patchable rate and offset. Voice modules include a lowpass gate with vactrol emulation and a patchable waveguide or delay whose feedback loop contains a waveshaper and peaking EQ. A state-variable filter provides simultaneous mixable outputs. Aalto runs on macOS and Windows as a plug-in: Mac provides VST and AU installers, while Windows provides VST. There is no standalone app. A free trial is available, but demo mode plays a reminder sound about every minute and disables patch saving. The listed Aalto license costs $99 as a one-time purchase. It permits installation on any number of computers, though simultaneous use requires one license per computer.

MSoundFactory is a modular virtual instrument for creating instruments from generators, samplers, filters, and effects. Its per-voice Generator engine connects modules automatically and supports oscillators, wavetables, filters, samplers, drum generators, effects, and utilities. Modulation is available globally and per voice, with a 4×4 matrix for supported per-voice parameters. The sampler supports unlimited regions and alternating hits, along with looping, crossfading, modulation, and synchronized samplers for multi-microphone instruments. The product page advertises full MPE support and modular unison that does not allocate multiple voices for the same note. The free Player includes a few sounds and no customizations; it may play some third-party sounds. MSoundFactory LE costs $55, paid once, while the full edition costs $167, paid once and includes all sounds and instruments. The fully functional 15-day trial becomes MSoundFactory after it expires. It runs as a plugin, not a standalone app, on Windows 10/11 64-bit and macOS 10.14 or newer in compatible hosts.