In 2025, the world of synths has really taken off, giving producers an incredible range of choices that far surpass the basic tools that usually come with most DAWs.
Whether you're making innovative EDM tracks, creating immersive soundscapes for movies, or diving into the nostalgic warmth of analog synthesis, the current plugin market has something to fit every creative idea and budget.
To help you explore this vast world, we've compiled a list of 12 exceptional synths that showcase the finest offerings of 2025. Our choices feature Xfer Serum 2, which stands out for its innovative synthesis engine, Vital as the top free wavetable synthesizer that competes with high-end options, u-he Diva for its authentic analog emulation that captures the soul of classic hardware, and Spectrasonics Omnisphere 2, known for its extensive sample library and hybrid capabilities.
This year has introduced some really cool new trends in synthesis. We now have hybrid synthesis methods that mix different engines, better modulation systems that provide visual feedback, and optimized algorithms that lower CPU usage without compromising sound quality. These improvements make the plugins of 2025 more user-friendly for producers of all skill levels, while also expanding the limits of what can be achieved in software synthesis.
No matter if you're banging out driving tech basses or crafting complex soundscapes for movies, this guide includes both free and paid choices for every type of synthesis—from wavetable and analog emulation to FM and modular methods.
Compatibility: Windows 10+, macOS 10.15+, Apple Silicon native.
Format: VST, VST3, AU, AAX, LV2, 64-bit.
Price: $249) -free upgrade for Serum 1 owners; rent-to-own via Splice.
Features: Advanced wavetable synthesizer that has three slots for generators (Wavetable, Sample, Multisample, Granular, and Spectral engines). It comes with over 150 wavetables, 3 oscillators plus 1 sub, and 11 new filter models. There's also a modulation matrix featuring 8 macros, 4 envelopes, and 10 LFOs. Plus, it has 14 effects and an arpeggiator.
Why We Recommended: The March 2025 update introduces hybrid synthesis engines that produce incredibly rich and complex sounds. Serum 2 features a user-friendly interface that is perfect for beginners, yet it also provides advanced sound design tools that appeal to professionals. It's fantastic for crafting a wide range of sounds, from lush pads to driving basses, all while maintaining impressive CPU efficiency. The visual workflow and extensive preset library make it ideal for quick inspiration and creative sound design.
Compatibility: Windows 10+, macOS 10.15+, Apple Silicon native.
Format: VST, VST3, AU, AAX, LV2, 64-bit, Standalone.
Price: Free (Basic edition); $25 (Plus); $80 (Pro).
Features: Wavetable synthesis that includes spectral warping, three oscillators, custom wavetables from samples, various filter types, 6 envelopes, 8 LFOs, a suite of FXs, and beginner friendly visuals.
Why We Recommended: Vital is the top free synthesizer for electronic producers. It provides high-quality sound design tools at no charge, which is great for newbies eager to master advanced synthesis methods. The visual modulation system simplifies complex routing, and the spectral warping features allow you to craft distinctive sound textures.
Compatibility: macOS 10.10+, Windows 7+, Linux (beta, glibc 2.28+), Apple Silicon (M1+).
Format: CLAP, AUv2, VST3, AAX (64-bit), VST3 (32-/64-bit on Windows), NKS-ready.
Price: EUR179.
Features: Virtual analog emulation of classics like Roland Juno/Jupiter, MiniMoog, and Oberheim OB8. It features 5 oscillator and filter models, 2 LFOs, and stereo effects like chorus, reverb, and phaser. With over 1,200 presets and optimization for multicore CPUs, it also supports MPE, has modulation processors, a built-in oscilloscope, and can play polyphonically with up to 16 voices.
Why We Recommended: Diva provides authentic analog emulations that feels almost identical to vintage hardware. Its flexible design allows you to combine parts from various classic synthesizers, resulting in one-of-a-kind hybrid sounds. The timeless analog character is crucial for producers aiming for warm leads and deep basses, particularly with the growing interest in hybrid analog-digital workflows.
Compatibility: macOS 10.15+, Windows 10+, Apple Silicon native; 2.4 GHz+ processor, 8GB+ RAM, 64GB free space.
Format: AU, VST3, VST2, AAX, 64-bit.
Price: $499.
Features: A hybrid synthesizer featuring over 14,000 sounds, a 64GB sample library, 500 DSP waveforms, and having up to 32 oscillators for each preset. It includes 8 LFOs, 12 envelopes, 34 filters, and 58 effects, along with granular/FM/ring modulation, wavetable shaping, and hardware integration for more than 65 classic sounds.
Why We Recommended: Omnisphere 2 provides incredible depth for professional sound design, featuring a huge library that covers all musical genres. The hardware integration allows you to control the synth using vintage hardware, connecting the analog and digital realms. With its full synthesis engines and a wide range of FXs, it's perfect for producers looking for one plugin that can manage everything from delicate textures to grand cinematic scores.
Compatibility: Windows 10+, macOS 10.15+, Apple Silicon native.
Format: VST, VST3, AU, AAX, LV2, 64-bit.
Price: $199.
Features: A modular synthesizer featuring a customizable design, over 400 presets, and four types of signal generators (wavetable, virtual analog, samples, and noise). It offers limitless modulation options, polyphonic per-voice "Snapins" FXs, and adaptable routing.
Why We Recommended: Phase Plant is a powerhouse that allows you to create unique sounds from the ground up. Its modular design makes it easy to understand synthesis concepts while providing endless creative options. With undemanding system requirements and an efficient setup, you can create intricate patches without overloading your CPU.
Compatibility: Windows 10+ (64-bit), macOS 11+, Apple Silicon native; 4GB RAM, 4-core CPU 3.4GHz+, 3GB free space, OpenGL 2.0 GPU.
Format: VST, VST3, AU, AAX, Standalone, NKS (64-bit), 64-bit.
Price: EUR199 or $9.99/month subscription.
Features: A multi-engine hybrid synthesizer featuring many types of generators (Analog, Wavetable, Sample, Harmonic, Modal, Utility), updated filters (two slots with various types), 3 envelopes/LFOs/function generators, a new Vocoder effect, granular processing, and a quick user interface with drag-and-drop modulation; improved granular capabilities and new modulation choices.
Why We Recommended: The free update in January 2025 brought in modal synthesis and advanced granular tools that really expand creative possibilities. Pigments 6 is perfect for creating modern hybrid sounds that mix different types of synthesis effortlessly. The rent-to-own option makes high-quality synthesis affordable for new producers, and the user-friendly interface significantly accelerates the creative process.
Compatibility: Windows 10+ (64-bit), macOS 11+, Apple Silicon native; 8GB RAM, 4-core CPU 3.4GHz+ or M1, 50GB free space, OpenGL 2.0 GPU.
Format: VST, VST3, AU, AAX, Standalone, 64-bit.
Price: $699 (PRO); $199 (INTRO); $24.99/month (PRO subscription).
Features: A collection of 45 emulated instruments (like the Prophet 5, ARP 2600, Modular V, MiniBrute V, and Acid V), over 12,000 presets, improved polyphony and effects, plus updates such as Mellotron V and pianos; it also features augmented acoustics.
Why We Recommended: V Collection 11 offers warm analog recreations that truly reflect the soul of the iconic hardware. With a huge library of presets and a very affordable price for each instrument, it's ideal for producers looking for authentic analog sounds. Every emulation is carefully designed to maintain the unique character and quirks of the original hardware, making it a must-have for sound design inspired by hardware.
Compatibility: Windows 7+, macOS 10.9+, Apple Silicon compatible.
Format: VST, VST3, AU, AAX, x86/x64, 64-bit.
Price: EUR139 (ex. VAT) or EUR9.95/month until full payment.
Features: 4 unison oscillators without aliases (allowing for up to 32 voices per note), 2 filters that sound analog with nonlinear saturation, and master effects such as an arpeggiator, distortion, phaser, chorus/flanger, EQ, delay, reverb, and compressor; plus 2 ADSR envelopes, 2 LFOs, and efficient CPU usage.
Why We Recommended: Sylenth1 is a classic virtual analog synthesizer that is famous for its warm and punchy sounds, along with its simple design. It continues to be a go-to choice for EDM and pop producers because of its timeless collection of presets and minimal CPU usage. The clear and focused interface is ideal for producers seeking professional outcomes without the hassle of complicated programming, and its unique warmth stands out in modern mixes perfectly.
Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.10+, Windows 7+, Linux (beta support), Apple Silicon native.
Format: VST3, AUv2, AAX, CLAP (64-bit; 32-bit VST3 on Windows).
Price: EUR99.
Features: A modular soft synth that merges different synthesis methods like additive, FM, physical modeling, and wavetable, all powered by a strong modulation engine. It features 4 wavetable oscillators, each with 16 waveforms, along with spectral effects, 4 cross-modulation filters, and 4 standard filters that offer 23 modes.
Why We Recommended: Zebra 2 is a modular synth that a lot of sound designers love, especially in Hollywood film scoring (Hans Zimmer's favorite) and experimental music. Its adaptable design and low CPU usage allow for complex soundscapes that regular synths can't create. This makes it perfect for creative programming and detailed audio production.
Compatibility: Windows 7+, macOS 10.8+, Apple Silicon supported.
Format: VST, VST3, AU, AAX, 64-bit.
Price: $189.
Features: Powerful oscillators featuring a unison engine, filters, a modulation matrix, a FXs section (including reverb, delay, chorus, etc.), an arpeggiator, and a step sequencer, along with a vast collection of presets and compatibility with melodic styles such as trance and house.
Why We Recommended: Spire is one of the top choices for trance and house music producers because of its clear, bright sounds and extensive collection of presets.It provides excellent value with easy-to-use controls that make sound creation fast and simple, while its strong unison engine produces those iconic wide, evolving leads that are characteristic of today's electronic music.
Compatibility: Windows 10/11, macOS 13+, Apple Silicon supported.
Format: VST, AU, AAX, 64-bit.
Price: $99 (standalone); included in Komplete 15 bundles.
Features: FM8 includes over 1,200 presets, a user-friendly edit page, sound morphing capabilities, appealing effects, and it works well with classic FM hardware patches.
Why We Recommended: FM8 is the top FM synthesizer for crafting complex, metallic sounds that stand out in any mix. It's perfect for 80s-style music or modern electronic genres that require those unique FM textures. The extensive preset library features true recreations of classic DX7 sounds as well as modern takes, and the user-friendly matrix interface allows producers of all skill levels to easily navigate FM synthesis.
Compatibility: Windows 7/8/10/11 (64-bit), macOS 10.13+, Apple Silicon supported; Intel Core 2.8GHz+ with AVX, 16GB RAM, FullHD+ display.
Format: VST2, VST3, AU, AAX, 64-bit.
Price: $249.
Features: Up to 8 OSC modules that have different synthesis types like VA, wavetable, granular, spectral, and FM. There are also 5 filter modules with 47 different types, 6 FX busses that offer 34 FXs, and more than 1,180 factory presets.
Why We Recommended: Avenger 2 is an incredible tool for both cinematic and EDM production, featuring extensive expansion packs that encompass nearly every genre imaginable. Its multi-synthesis engine enables the creation of epic, layered sounds that surpass standard wavetable synthesis.
Choosing the right synth plugin really depends on your experienced level, how much money you want to spend, and what your musical goals are. If you're just starting out, it's a good idea to try free plugins like Vital. They help you learn the basics of synthesis without costing anything. Plus, the visual feedback and tons of tutorials make it super easy to grasp how oscillators, filters, and modulation all work together.
For producers looking to invest in professional tools, Serum 2 provides the perfect mix of strength and user-friendliness thanks to its simple interface and advance features. Electronic music producers consider Serum's wavetables as crucial for modern productions.
Genre-specific factors are really important. Producers of trance should focus on using Spire because it offers bright leads. On the other hand, film composers and ambient musicians will find Omnisphere 2's extensive library and hybrid capabilities very useful. If you're looking for authentic analog sounds, you should check out u-he Diva or Arturia's V Collection 11.
What’s the top synth plugin for intermediate producers? Serum 2 is the best choice because of its visual interface that clearly displays how each setting impacts the sound. The drag-and-drop modulation feature and extensive preset library offer great chances to learn while also giving quick results.
Which synth plugin gives you the best bang for your buck? Vital's free version is amazing, offering top-notch features without costing a dime. If you're looking for paid options, Arturia Pigments 6 has a subscription plan for just $9.99 a month, making high-quality hybrid synthesis affordable for everyone.
Do I really need a ton of synths? Even though a strong synth like Omnisphere 2 can cover most of what you need, having specific tools like FM8 for those metallic sounds or Diva for that warm analog vibe can really broaden your sound options. It's best to start with one solid choice and then add in those specialized tools as your music style grows.
The SKY comes packed with Xfer Serum & Cthulhu Presets, Stems, Loops, MIDI plus Samples.
We set out to capture the core of Said The Sky and provide this to you in this dreamy collection.
64 Serum Presets
24 Cthulhu Presets
3 Construction Kits
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Definitely get this pack. I got this pack a few days ago and have had nothing but a great time with it. So many great sounds, everything is super warm and usable right out the gate. I’ve also been using this pack to learn more about Serum in general and how to manipulate the synth. – Anthony S.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass Serum & MassiveMelodic and Fresh. Knockout, fresh melodic sounds. Great loops (dry & wet), MIDI, Cthulu presets and Serum presets. – Peter C.
Verified Buyer Review for HOLOI produce a lot of genres ranging from House, to Dubstep, to Trap. I recently got into Future Bass because of this pack. It is the best pack I have ever bought across all genres! The value is insane and the quality is top notch. I definitely recommend it to everyone. I love it! – Austin W.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass for SerumA great collection of sounds, really inspiring to use and worth every penny. – Ben C.
Verified Buyer Review for FriendsAwesome sauce you can dip your ears in! Beautiful sounds in this pack! Didn’t even have much interest in making future bass until I bought this pack. I got mainly because the sale price and number of presets it came with we’re a great deal, love it because the sounds are the shiznit, and are definitely suitable for all sorts of other styles which I like because I like to play them all. – Caleb P.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass for SerumGreat sounds… As usual… Bringing the best platinum sounding presets to the game… You guys are the best… – Daniel B.
Verified Buyer Review for Maj Lazer IIProfessional Sounds! I simply love the innovation of this team, whatever they bring out is always of special quality and useful for me as film composer. – Anselme P.
Verified Buyer Review for Porter lleniumGreat presets. Pack had some awesome presets. – Eric E.
Verified Buyer Review for Melodic DubstepDiverse range. This pack contains a lot of polysynth presets. They’re ideal for today’s music. Interesting timbres on some and others are lush and thick reducing the number of tracks needed. – matthew c.
Verified Buyer Review for Porter lleniumI am lucky to find this packed item at a good timing. I was planning to extend the serum preset. I am lucky to be able to find this packed item just at that timing. I could extend the presets of other plugins reasonably well. – hiroshi k.
Verified Buyer Review for The SKYLove the new Future Bass Serum presets! I love this pack! You can tell a lot of work went into the pack. Especially the Sequenced stuff. You get that awesome Future Bass movement right off the bat with those Sequence files… Def grab this one!! – jason g.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass for SerumLove this pack! Amazing vibes, definitely recommended getting!! – Matthew L.
Verified Buyer Review for SlushyGreat Pack and a Pleasure to work with! Not often that I review packs but this has everything I needed. Presets and samples that were of the genre as stated – Andy
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass Ultimate PackGreat all around pack! All the sounds in this pack are beautifully put together and worth it within themselves. The bonus samples on top of it make it almost a steal. 5 stars hands down – Calen F.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass for SerumExcellent. I use cthulhu and this was excellent for that piece of software. – brett s.
Verified Buyer Review for Maj Lazer II Awesome pack! Downloaded this pack and was up all night the first night. The quality of sounds is amazing and midi chords can be really engaging for beginners. Must have pack!!!! – Troy H.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass for SerumAwesome value! Great Sounds and really beneficial Cthulhu PreSets! Worth it! – Carter M.
Verified Buyer Review for Maj Lazer IINice and Slushy way of sounds and a must for those that are doing such music. I give it five stars. – Peter Q.
Verified Buyer Review for SlushyAs always, a great pack. Love the price point on these, able to constantly get fresh inspiration. – Luke M.
Verified Buyer Review for Indie Future BassGreat mix of Samples and Presets! There are more samples and presets than you could possible use in a lifetime in this pack. – David G.
Verified Buyer Review for Porter lleniumFantastic presets! I’ve been having a lot of fun with these. Very good for future bass vibes and big chords. Love it! – Brandon M.
Verified Buyer Review for Indie Future BassBangin! This release is awesome, every patch sounds fantastic and really well constructed. Already using it in my published productions. – jason c.
Verified Buyer Review for Porter lleniumLove every preset, especially the plucks which sound great, especially with their cutoff adjusted. – Siddharth C.
Verified Buyer Review for Porter lleniumDope. The presets are flawless. Got this months ago and still loving it! I took my EP to the next level with this and got it signed. – Ralph B.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass 4Amazing!! This is the best sounding pack for Tropical House beats in my opinion – Karina M.
Verified Buyer Review for Tropical House for SerumGreat. having great fun with these presets. Totally worth it – terry l.
Verified Buyer Review for Future House Serum & MassiveAmazing product! Great sounds! Good variety of sounds! Organized well and very creative! A must have pack!! – Darren S.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass 4Great sounds! Awesome settings, I liked to work with it. – Adam F.
Verified Buyer Review for MAJ LazerAwesome sounds! great pack, love it. sounds are great, samples are premium – Nathan P.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass Serum & MassiveWhat I was looking for!! This pack is perfect, exactly what I needed!! – Aaron H.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass for SerumGreat presets! Have been enjoying the presets from this pack! Worth every bit of money ! – Paul C.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass Ultimate PackXcellent! Great pack indeed…. Nice bace, pluck and various mixture of preset sounds! – Cory H.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass for SerumAmazing stuff ! Exactly what I was looking for. High quality audio – Jheynner F.
Verified Buyer Review for Indie Future BassGood stuff. There are plenty of top-notch sounds to use in this pack. Well done. – Brad D.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass Serum & MassiveVery helpful and Inspiring! This was just the thing I needed to get the creative juices flowing – Kenny
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass for SerumNice Presets Pack! There’s so many presets that sounds dope. I’ve been tweaking some. Best value for the money. – Gede P.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass for SerumHux. A great mix of contemporary sounds for the genre, lots of great macros in massive for changing it up – Matt H.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass 4Future Bass…A must. Plenty of great presets for both Serum and Massive. Anyone who follows today’s sound should have the right tools. – Roger O.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass for SerumDope! Surge sounds makes my favorite serum presets and they haven’t disappointed this time around. A huge bargain for the price – Timothy C.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass for SerumAmazing sounds! They are very good compared to other presets that you can find. – Charlie M.
Verified Buyer Review for Future House 2High quality patches. Sounds are stunning..already made something great with them – Dean W.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass 4BEST. Best Sounds for any kind of Bass music! Love them! – Lewis A.
Verified Buyer Review for Deep HouseJust what I wanted! The fact that the drums were given as midi files was, and is the best. Wish more packs did the same! – Robert D.
Verified Buyer Review for Future Bass for Serum
Stock Plugins Session
Stock Plugins Sessions
VST Plugins Session
VST Plugins Sessions
64
Serum Presets
Serum 2 Presets
24
Cthulhu Presets
Massive Presets
3
Construction Kits
3
Construction Kit
116
Stems
257
Loops
29
Samples
51
MIDI
100% Royalty Free
64
Serum Presets
Serum 2 Presets
24
Cthulhu Presets
Massive Presets
100% Royalty Free
64
Serum Presets
Serum 2 Presets
24
Cthulhu Presets
Massive Presets
3
Construction Kits
3
Construction Kit
116
Stems
257
Loops
29
Samples
51
MIDI
100% Royalty Free
64
Serum Presets
Serum 2 Presets
24
Cthulhu Presets
Massive Presets
3
Construction Kits
3
Construction Kit
116
Stems
257
Loops
29
Samples
51
MIDI
100% Royalty Free
Ableton Sessions
Ableton Session
By contacting us you can upgrade to the Deluxe Version and only pay the difference.
Browse our FAQ below for detailed answers to popular questions about installation, downloads, support and more.
Installing Serum presets is simple and easy. Our detailed guide below takes you through the whole process step-by-step.
How to Install Serum Presets - Complete GuideAbsolutely! Serum presets work perfectly with Serum 2. The new version is created to work with the original version, so they'll load up perfectly. Serum 2 comes with improvements like better visual feedback and new FXs. Check out our guide below to learn more.
Serum 2 New Features: Complete Producer's Guide
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