Here you’ll find a full list of the 15 best VST synths or synth plugins to include in your DAW in 2025. These are essential tools for music production and sound design.
One of the best and most popular VST synthesizers. It offers 5 synthesis modes, but is especially known for its wavetable synthesis. It features a highly visual, intuitive interface and is easy to use, though slightly less so than version 1.
A synth plugin that emulates the components and sound of classic analog synthesizers from the past 50 years, like the Minimoog, Roland Jupiter, Juno, and more.
A highly popular hybrid synth plugin that blends sampling with multiple synthesis types (subtractive, granular, etc.). It has a massive, high-quality sound library, used even in film scoring.
A semi-modular synth that lets you add any module you want: oscillators, modulators, effects… It also supports multiple synthesis types including wavetable. Offers incredible control and detail.
Highly appreciated for its flexibility and depth without the steep learning curve of traditional modular synths.
Nexus has always been a rompler, but since version 5 it has evolved into a hybrid synthesizer. It still offers thousands of ready-to-use presets, but now you can also edit and synthesize them. It ranges from electronic sounds to sampled real instruments and is widely used in both electronic music and film.
A deep, modular synth plugin that combines sampling with tons of synthesis types, additive, FM, granular, analog, wavetable, and more. It’s a true all-in-one sound lab.
Not for beginners, but extremely powerful for experienced users.
14. Hive 2 (u-he)
A modern hybrid VST synth that blends multiple synthesis types like 2D wavetables and subtractive. Simple, efficient, and low on CPU, perfect for heavy projects or slower computers.
Highly optimized, simple interface, and solid sound quality.
ANA 2 is a hybrid digital synth with 6 oscillators, 3 wavetable and 3 sample playback types. It also includes tools like a chord memory function. Quite popular.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ:
What are some famous VST synths?
Some of the most famous VST synths are Serum, Diva, Omnisphere, Massive, Nexus, Sylenth1… But there are many more. We recommend going through the full list above.
Is a VST the same as a synthesizer?
Not exactly. A VST (Virtual Studio Technology) is a type of software commonly used as a plugin in DAWs. It can be a virtual instrument, effect, or sound processor.
Many VSTs are synths, but not all VSTs are synthesizers.
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