Best Software Synths for Windows

SunVox is a compact, fast, and powerful modular synthesizer combined with a pattern-based sequencer (tracker), designed for music enthusiasts who wish to compose music anytime, anywhere, on any device or system. It is available for multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux (x86, x86_64, ARM, ARM64), iOS, Android, and Windows CE, with free versions for most systems except Android and iOS. SunVox features highly optimized synth algorithms and a flexible architecture, supporting various sound systems such as ASIO, DirectSound, MME, ALSA, OSS, JACK, Audiobus, and IAA. It functions as an AU instrument/effect on iOS and supports 16/24/32-bit WAV, AIFF, and XI samples, along with multitrack WAV export capabilities. The software offers MIDI In/Out/Import/Export, real-time sample recording, and a powerful microtonal sequencer. Users can import XM (FastTracker) and MOD (ProTracker, OctaMED) files and perform real-time recording of various sound events.

The Korg KAOSSILATOR PRO+ is a dynamic phrase synthesizer and loop recorder that allows users to create and perform multi-layered music across various genres with a simple touch of the X/Y touchpad. It features 250 sound programs, including 62 new additions, covering styles such as hip-hop, house, dubstep, and rock. The loop recording function supports up to four measures, enabling intuitive performance and track creation with four infinitely stackable loop banks. Users can set musical scales and keys to ensure accurate performances, and the gate arpeggiator function facilitates easy phrase control via a slider. The device includes line and mic inputs for recording external audio sources, and its USB MIDI capability allows it to function as a versatile MIDI controller. Additionally, the KAOSSILATOR PRO+ supports saving loop data and external WAV files on SD/SDHC cards, with dedicated editor software available for managing sample data and settings.

Roland Zenbeats is a music creation app that keeps you in an effortless artistic flow. Get started on any device or platform. With its collection of both modern and legendary sounds, Zenbeats brings Roland’s history of innovation into a new, accessible format. Whether you’re an emerging musician or an established producer, Zenbeats makes music creation easy. Make beats, take lessons, and sample the world around you. Wherever you are, no matter what platform or device you use, capture your creative spark with Zenbeats. ZC1 is a new plug-in synthesizer using Roland’s ZEN-Core Synthesis System. Available in Zenbeats as a free instrument, ZC1 has 60 presets and a sleek touch-based interface. Use the XY pad for Resonance and Cutoff or other parameters. Plus, unlock ZC1 to share sounds with ZENOLOGY and ZEN-Core-compatible hardware and get around 900 additional preset tones and 90 built-in MFX effects. These sounds cover a wide range from acoustic and electronic to ethnic instruments.

Roland Cloud is an evolving cloud-based suite of software synthesizers, drum machines, and sampled instruments for modern creators. Harness the vast power of the ZEN-Core Synthesis System and dive deep into the world of custom sound design with ZENOLOGY Pro. For nearly fifty years, Roland has delivered memorable, genre-defining sounds. And a big part of that sonic footprint is our unique approach to effects processing. The swirling JUNO chorus, feedback-drenched tape echo, and other sounds have left their mark on countless tracks over the decades, and with ZENOLOGY FX, you can now add that flavor to any keyboard sound or instrument track right inside your DAW. With over 90 processors to choose from, there's a wealth of ways to make your synth sounds come alive. Add delays to arps, larger-than-life modulation effects to chord progressions, and twist and distort basses and lead tones that leap from the speakers.

DRC delivers an amazing, warm analog sound. DRC is a virtual analog synthesizer that emphasizes authentic analog modeling, delivering a warm and rich sound across multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows. It utilizes the same synth engine on all devices, ensuring consistent, high-quality audio. The synthesizer features a clean, minimalistic interface focused on accessibility, allowing users to concentrate on creativity without visual distractions. DRC supports cloud-based preset synchronization, enabling users to create patches on mobile devices and seamlessly access them on desktop versions. This cross-platform functionality facilitates music production anytime and anywhere. The software includes a range of built-in effects and supports MIDI integration, catering to both beginners and experienced musicians seeking a portable and powerful synthesis tool. DRC uses the exact same synth-engine on all platforms for a consistent, high-quality sound.