ZynAddSubFX

ZynAddSubFX

ZynAddSubFX is an open source software synthesizer for Linux, macOS, and Windows. It features subtractive, additive, FM, and other synthesis methods with effects, modulators, and filters for creating a wide range of sounds.
ZynAddSubFX image
open-source subtractive-synthesis additive-synthesis fm-synthesis linux macos windows

ZynAddSubFX: Open Source Software Synthesizer

ZynAddSubFX is an open source software synthesizer for Linux, macOS, and Windows. It features subtractive, additive, FM, and other synthesis methods with effects, modulators, and filters for creating a wide range of sounds.

What is ZynAddSubFX?

ZynAddSubFX is an open source software synthesizer for Linux, macOS, and Windows. It was first released in 2002 by Nasca Octavian Paul and has been under active development ever since.

ZynAddSubFX features a variety of synthesis methods including subtractive synthesis, additive synthesis, frequency modulation (FM) synthesis, waveform synthesis, and more. It comes packed with effects like chorus, flanger, phaser, reverb, echo, distortion, EQ, dynamic processing, rotary speaker emulation, and more to sculpt your sounds.

The synth also provides envelopes, LFOs, and other modulators to animate your patches over time. An innovative microtuning system allows you to create and explore new tunings and tonalities. The filter section offers low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, notch, and other filter types.

The intuitive graphical interface makes ZynAddSubFX easy for beginners to use, but also includes more advanced features for experienced sound designers. Thousands of presets come included to get you started making music fast.

ZynAddSubFX continues to be maintained and developed by enthusiasts and is completely free, open source software good for any platform.

ZynAddSubFX Features

Features

  1. Subtractive synthesis
  2. Additive synthesis
  3. Frequency modulation (FM) synthesis
  4. Ring modulation synthesis
  5. Amplitude modulation (AM) synthesis
  6. Wavetable synthesis
  7. Filter, equalizer, flanger, phaser, chorus, delay, reverb effects
  8. Envelopes, LFOs, and other modulators
  9. Microtonal capabilities
  10. Supports MIDI and OSC

Pricing

  • Open Source

Pros

Free and open source

Cross-platform (Linux, macOS, Windows)

Powerful synthesis capabilities

Lots of effects and modulation options

User-friendly interface

Active development community

Cons

Steep learning curve

Can be CPU-intensive

Limited sample support

No native support for VST plugins


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