Surge XT vs SynthMaster 2
Surge XT
surge-synthesizer.github.ioSynthMaster 2
synthmaster.comSide by side
| Figure | Surge XT | 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 | 1 | 2 |
| Spec score · Software Synthesizers | 8.3 (#9) | 7.7 (#19) |
| Founded | 2005 | 2004 |
| Modulation | Surge XT provides 12 LFO units, DAHDSR envelopes, step sequencing, MSEG modulation up to 128 nodes and Lua-based formula modulation. | The product provides real-time visual feedback showing modulation sources and targets as notes play. |
| Plugin formats | Official downloads include VST3, AU, CLAP and Linux LV2 builds depending on platform and release. | The desktop product runs as a VST and AAX instrument on Windows and Mac, and as an Audio Unit instrument on Mac. |
| Support | The FAQ directs users who need help to the Surge Synth Team Discord help channel. | The maker asks customers with product support issues to contact it through its support form. |
| Synthesis | Its subtractive hybrid synthesis engine provides two scenes per patch that can be layered or split. | The desktop product supports VA, additive, wavetable, wavescanning, phase modulation, frequency modulation, pulse-width modulation, ring modulation, amplitude modulation, physical modeling and SFZ sample playback synthesis. |
Plans
SynthMaster 2
- SynthMaster 2$9, paid once
- SynthMaster 2 for iOS$14.99, paid once
In their own words
Surge XT
Surge XT is a free, open-source virtual instrument plugin and hybrid synthesizer for making music. Each patch has two scenes that can be layered or split, and each scene has three oscillators with 12 algorithms, including wavetable, FM, string, and audio input. Its listed library includes over 2,800 patches and over 700 wavetables. Other features include 12 LFO units, flexible modulation routing, and 16 effect units with 27 algorithms. Performance support includes MPE, Scala and MTS-ESP microtuning, and Open Sound Control. Surge XT runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, with plugin formats varying by platform: CLAP and VST3 on Windows; AU, CLAP, and VST3 on macOS; and CLAP, LV2, and VST3 on Linux. It primarily needs a DAW or another compatible host, though a standalone executable is available. Version 1.3.4 is identified as the stable release for normal production use. The software is licensed under GPL3.
SynthMaster 2
SynthMaster 2 has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.