Max vs MSoundFactory

Max is an interactive visual patching environment for musicians, artists, and people prototyping software. It runs on macOS and Windows as a standalone app, supports sample import, and works with Audio Unit, VST, VST3, and AMXD formats. Users can build synthesizers, manipulate samples, and create layered multichannel sound with MC objects. Jitter adds expandable video and graphics tools for realtime audiovisual work. Max connects to development boards and accesses sensors, knobs, and switches for interaction prototypes. Gen creates audio, matrix, or texture processes and can output source code for use elsewhere. Package Manager offers over 50 add-ons, including Novation, Monome, and ROLI support. Extensions can be written in C++, NodeJS, Java, or JavaScript. Cycling '74 develops Max for Live with Ableton, and Max 9 adds sound-processing objects based on Ableton's audio library. The 30-day trial unlocks all features without restrictions on opening, editing, saving, or creating.

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.