If you’re anything like me, I’m sure you already have plenty of Synth Plugins on your harddrive. Some are your regular ‘go-to’s,’ others are for testing, learning, and experimentation, and some you have for the sake of having because they look cool, a friend or colleague recommendation, or you’ve found them on sale (wink wink).
Seriously though, can we ever have enough synths and noisemakers as music producers? They are fun to use and tinker around with and can be a great source of inspiration.
With that being said, If you’re looking for a few more synths to add to your collection, please consider the following in no particular order.
What Makes A Good Synth Sample Library?
Not all synth libraries are the same. Some are built for thick analog warmth, while others focus on futuristic, digital tones. Here’s what to look for when picking one:
Sound Quality – Does it sound authentic, warm, and full, or does it feel thin and lifeless?
Variety – A great library should have leads, basses, pads, plucks, and more.
Customization – Can you tweak the sound with filters, effects, or envelopes?
Usability – Some synths require extra software (like Kontakt), while others work in any DAW.
Resource Usage – Heavy synths can drain your CPU. Check if your system can handle them.
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Price
$49.00base price $29
$49.00base price $29
Top Synth Sample Libraries You Should Check Out
The Eighty By XILS-Lab
The Eighty is a detailed emulation of the iconic Yamaha CS-80, known for its expressive, cinematic sound. It’s a go-to for rich analog tones, lush pads, and soaring leads.
Main Features
Faithful recreation of the Yamaha CS-80’s legendary sound.
Two independent synth layers for deep sound sculpting.
Velocity and aftertouch sensitivity for expressive playing.
Built-in chorus, delay, and reverb for instant polish.
Advanced modulation section for creative movement.
Multi-mode filters to shape the sound.
Polyphonic aftertouch for extra realism.
Presets covering everything from vintage warmth to modern textures.
ArcSyn Synthesizer By SPC Plugins
ArcSyn is a powerful virtual analog synth that ditches traditional waveforms for custom oscillator shapes, giving it a unique, futuristic sound.
Main Features
Over 450 factory presets, from classic leads to experimental textures.
Three high-quality oscillators with unique waveforms.
Deep modulation options, including step sequencers and LFOs.
A built-in arpeggiator for rhythmic sequences.
Warm, rich filters inspired by classic hardware.
Built-in effects, including reverb, delay, and chorus.
Low CPU usage, making it great for large projects.
Flexible routing for sound design experiments.
SynthMaster 2.9 By KV331 Audio
SynthMaster 2.9 is a semi-modular synth packed with wavetables, FM, additive, and subtractive synthesis, making it one of the most versatile synth plugins available.
Main Features
2,000+ factory presets covering all genres.
Multiple synthesis methods (VA, FM, Wavetable, Additive, and more).
4 powerful oscillators with different synthesis types.
A massive modulation matrix for advanced sound design.
11 different filter types, including analog-modeled options.
8 built-in effects, including reverb, chorus, and distortion.
Arpeggiator and step sequencer for rhythmic patterns.
Low CPU mode for better performance on slower computers.
Lush-2 by D16 Group
Lush-2 is a polyphonic synth that emulates vintage analog gear while giving you modern flexibility. It’s great for layering sounds, but has a bold sound of it’s own.
Main Features
8-layer synth for amazing sound stacking capability
Over 1,600 presets covering leads, basses, pads, and more.
Modulation matrix for routing LFOs, envelopes, and more.
Built-in mixer with EQ, compression, and send effects.
Authentic analog sound with warm oscillators and filters.
Onboard effects including reverb, delay, and chorus.
User-friendly interface for quick workflow.
Jura by AIR Music Technology
Jura recreates the classic ’80s synth sound with some modern upgrades. Perfect for warm analog pads, leads, and thick basslines. If you like the sound of the Juno synth, you’ll appreciate this emulation.
Main Features
Classic oscillator section with pulse, saw, sub, and noise.
Filter section with cutoff, resonance, and drive.
Two ADSR envelopes for shaping sound.
Syncable LFO with 8 waveforms, including random.
Legendary chorus effect plus delay, reverb, and EQ.
Unison and chord modes for thick, stacked sounds.
Built-in arpeggiator with adjustable speed and gate.
Compatible with VST, AU, AAX, and AKAI standalone devices.
Layering Synths for Bigger, Fuller Sounds
Instead of relying on a single preset, trying blending textures, and synth presets from different synths (or the same synth). Layering synths helps create fuller, richer sounds that cut through a mix.
This is great for thicker basslines, big sounding leads, and pads. It also helps give you a custom sound that other music creators don’t have access to.
1. Use a Layering Plugin (If Available)
- Some synths, like SynthMaster 2.9, Omnisphere, or Lush-2, have built-in multi-layer modes that let you load multiple patches within one instance.
- If your synth doesn’t support layers, try a third-party layering plugin like Blue Cat’s PatchWork or Metaplugin to stack synths in a single channel.
2. Use Instrument Racks or Layers in Your DAW
- In Ableton Live, use an Instrument Rack
- Load one instance of your synth.
- Drag in another instance into the same rack.
- Adjust Key Zones or Velocity Zones
- In FL Studio, use a Layer Channel
- Create a Layer Channel in the Channel Rack.
- Add both synths.
- Select both synths and click “Set Children” in the Layer Channel.
- In Logic Pro X, use the Track Stack feature
- Load both synths onto separate instrument tracks.
- Select them and create a Summing Track Stack to control them together.
How to Choose the Right Synth Library for Your Needs
With so many synth libraries out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. The best choice depends on your genre, workflow, and production style. Here’s how to narrow it down:
1. Identify Your Main Genre
Hip-Hop & Trap: Look for deep bass, moody pads, and rich leads. SynthMaster 2.9 and Omnisphere work great.
EDM & Pop: You’ll need bright leads, lush pads, and punchy basses. ArcSyn and Serum Presets are solid choices.
Lo-Fi & Chill Beats: Go for vintage, warm synths with analog character. The Eighty and TAL-U-NO-LX fit well.
Cinematic & Ambient: You’ll want evolving textures, drones, and atmospheric pads. Omnisphere and Spitfire Audio eDNA are perfect.
2. Consider Sample Based vs. Synth Generated Sounds
Sample-Based Libraries (like The Eighty) use real recorded sounds, giving a more natural tone.
Synth-Generated Libraries (like ArcSyn) let you tweak and create sounds from scratch for more flexibility.
3. Check Compatibility with Your DAW & Setup
Does it work as a standalone VST/AU/AAX plugin?
Does it require Kontakt, UVI Workstation, or another sampler?
Is your computer powerful enough to handle it? Some synths require high CPU and RAM.
4. Decide How Much Customization You Want
If you love tweaking sounds, go for a synth with deep modulation (like ArcSyn or SynthMaster 2.9).
If you prefer ready-to-go presets, pick something with pre-made sounds (Analog Lab, Nexus Expansions).
5. Think About Budget & Storage Space
Free options: Surge XT, Dexed, TAL-Noisemaker.
Mid-range ($50-$150): Addictive Keys, Splice packs.
Premium ($200+): Omnisphere, SynthMaster 2.9, Zebra 2.
Also, check storage—some synths take up 20GB+, while others are under 1GB.
6. Read Reviews & Watch Demos
Before buying, check out YouTube demos and user reviews. Some synths sound great in theory but don’t fit your workflow.
FAQ: Common Questions About Synth Sample Libraries
1. Do Free Synth Libraries Sound Good?
Yes, free synths like Surge XT, Dexed, and TAL-Noisemaker sound great, but they may lack in features or presets, but are fully capable of helping you create good music.
2. What’s The Best Synth Library For Beginners?
A beginner friendly synth should have a simple interface and high quality presets. A lot of synths fit this bill. Check out Analog Lab and ArcSyn.
3. Why Do Some Synths Sound Thin?
Thin sounding synts is usually a result of missing low end frequencies, layering, and processing.
4. How Much Storage Do Synth Libraries Need?
It varies. Some small synth libraries take up a few MBs, while others can require 20GB+. Synths like Syntronik 2 or Keyscape are large because they use multi sampled recordings.
5. Can I Use Synths In Any DAW?
Most synth libraries work in any VST/AU/AAX-compatible DAW, but some require Kontakt, UVI Workstation, or another sampler. Just check if the library is a standalone instrument or if it requires an additional sampler before purchasing.
6. What’s The Difference Between A Synth Library And A Synth Plugin?
A synth plugin (like Serum or ArcSyn) generates sounds using oscillators, filters, and effects. A synth library is a collection of pre-recorded sounds from real synths, often requiring a sampler like Kontakt.
7. What’s The Best Synth For Bass Sounds?
For deep bass, Moog style synths (MiniMoog, Sub 37, Taurus) deliver thick analog tones. SynthMaster 2.9 is also a good option. Add saturators for color or extra warmth.
8. How Do I Make My Synths Sound Less Robotic?
If your synth sounds too stiff, add velocity variation, modulation (LFOs), and slight detuning. Using automation on filters and effects makes the sound feel alive.
9. Are Software Synths Better Than Hardware?
It depends on what you need. Software synths are cheaper, more flexible, and portable. Hardware synths provide hands on control and analog warmth that’s hard to replicate.
10. What’s The Best Synth For Layering Sounds?
For layering, pick a synth with dual layers, strong polyphony, and unison modes. Omnisphere, SynthMaster 2.9, and Zebra 2 allow you to mix multiple sounds in one patch.
Conclusion
Choosing the right synth sample library can make all the difference in the world. Especially when you want to have a setup that allows you to quickly take the ideas from your brain and get it into your sequencer with minimal tweaking.
There isn’t anything wrong with tweaking and sound design, but when you’re trying to work, you get a quality sounds that are easily accessible.
Be sure to check out other deals on sounds and synths at https://audioplugin.deals/shop/
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