Massive X is certainly worth experimenting with, boasting a plethora of modulation possibilities, a unique routing section, over 170 wavetables and 10 wavetable modes.

The long-awaited update, Massive X, arrived in 2019 with a totally new design – so different, in fact, that NI has kept the original Massive available to download as a different entity. Native Instruments’ Massive made a name for itself during the rise of dubstep, thanks to a rich sonic palette and modulation engine that made it ideal for complex, moving basslines. The best software polyphonic synthesizers at a glance: We’ve rounded up 19 of our favourites, all with their own quirks that will keep you busy for hours on end.

READ MORE: 10 of the best freeware soft synthsįrom legendary models to complex modular setups and newfangled instruments, there are countless software polys to choose from.

Software can faithfully emulate iconic models, offer brave new sounds, and even present fresh ways to synthesise audio – all at prices that are typically far lower than their physical counterparts. There are many reasons to opt for a software synthesizer over a hardware one.

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