Our verdict: Surge XT is one of the deepest free synthesizers available: many synthesis methods, a flexible modulation system and a big factory library. The interface is dense, so expect some time before it feels familiar.
About Surge XT
Surge started as a commercial synth by Vember Audio and was open-sourced by its author; the Surge Synth Team of volunteers now develops it as Surge XT. On Windows it works as a VST3 or CLAP plugin in your DAW and also ships a standalone app.
Each patch has two scenes that can be layered or split. Every scene has 3 oscillators with 12 algorithms (Classic, Modern, Wavetable, FM, String, Twist and others), two filter units, a waveshaper and 12 LFOs, including a multi-segment envelope and a Lua formula modulator. The factory library has over 2800 patches and 700 wavetables.
What it does well
- 12 oscillator algorithms. From classic analog shapes to wavetable, FM, physical string and Twist.
- Flexible modulation. 12 LFOs per scene, MSEG envelopes and Lua formula modulators.
- 27 effect types. Reverbs, delays, distortion, vocoder, Nimbus, tape and the Airwindows collection.
- Large factory library. Over 2800 patches and 700 wavetables with a searchable browser.
- MPE and microtuning. Supports MPE controllers, Scala tunings, MTS-ESP and OSC control.
Who it is for
Good fit
Producers and sound designers who want a powerful synth plugin in their DAW at no cost.
Look elsewhere
Beginners who want a simple synth with a few knobs, and users without a DAW who only need a basic keyboard sound.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free and open source
- Very wide range of sounds
- Over 2800 factory patches
- VST3 and CLAP support
Cons
- Dense interface with many small controls
- No VST2 version
How to install Surge XT
Download the 64-bit Windows installer and select the plugin formats you need (VST3, CLAP, standalone). Rescan plugins in your DAW afterwards. A 32-bit installer is offered separately only for old hosts.
Questions about Surge XT
Is Surge XT free?
Yes. It is open source under the GNU GPL v3 with no paid edition.
Which plugin formats does Surge XT support on Windows?
VST3 and CLAP, plus a standalone application.
Does Surge XT need a powerful PC?
The developers recommend a 3 GHz quad-core CPU and at least 4 GB of RAM; the minimum is any x64 CPU with SSE2.
