Helm vs SynthMaster 2
Helm
tytel.orgSynthMaster 2
synthmaster.comSide by side
| Figure | Helm | SynthMaster 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | — |
| Free plan | Yes | — |
| Free trial | — | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | — |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes | — |
| iOS | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 2 | 2 |
| Spec score · Software Synthesizers | 8.6 (#4) | 7.7 (#19) |
| Modulation | Modulation sources include two monophonic LFOs, one polyphonic LFO, three envelopes, keyboard controls, random values and polyphonic aftertouch. | The product provides real-time visual feedback showing modulation sources and targets as notes play. |
| Plugin formats | The official site distributes Helm as standalone software and LV2, VST, VST3 and AU plugins. | The desktop product runs as a VST and AAX instrument on Windows and Mac, and as an Audio Unit instrument on Mac. |
| Support | The maker asks users to email bug reports with operating system, standalone or plugin details and crash information. | The maker asks customers with product support issues to contact it through its support form. |
Plans
SynthMaster 2
- SynthMaster 2$9, paid once
- SynthMaster 2 for iOS$14.99, paid once
In their own words
Helm
Helm is a free software synthesizer for creating electronic music on a computer. It is available as a standalone application or as a plugin in LV2, VST, VST3, or AU formats, with GNU/Linux, Mac OSX, and Windows versions in 32-bit and 64-bit editions. Its sound tools include dual oscillators with cross modulation, unison, a sub oscillator, filters, modulation, a step sequencer, an arpeggiator, and audio effects. MIDI Learn lets users assign a MIDI control to a knob or slider. The maker describes Helm as software that can be run without DRM, studied, changed, and redistributed in original or modified form. The FAQ says the person who plays a sound made with Helm holds its copyright. Listed requirements include Windows 7 or later, MacOS 10.7 or later, Ubuntu Trusty 14.04 or later, and Debian Jessie or later. The project is described as being in beta with outstanding bugs. For bug reports, the maker asks users to include details such as what happened, crash reports, their operating system, and whether they use the plugin or standalone version.
SynthMaster 2
SynthMaster 2 has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.