The 13 Most Powerful Serum Alternatives EVER (Free & Paid)

Serum is, no doubt, the most iconic wavetable synth in the game 一 it helps you create mind-blowing soundscapes and custom wavetables. 

Plus, you’re able to modulate parameters to an unmatched degree (seriously). 

Its clean user interface is also on point and the high-quality effects make it a favorite for both beginners and pros alike.

However, there’s been a lot of demand for me to write about the best Serum alternatives, and I got you guys. 

Today, I’m including both free alternatives and paid options, so you’ll get the best of both worlds and don’t have to break the bank if you don’t want.

The other synths I’m breaking down today all include unique features and functions that stack up to Xfer’s Serum, like:

• Advanced wavetable synthesis ✓
• High-quality effects (delay, reverb, distortion) ✓
• Custom wavetables and presets ✓
• Flexible modulation options ✓
• MPE support for expressive play ✓
• Intuitive user interfaces ✓
• Multi-layered sound design ✓
• Analog-style oscillators ✓
• Extensive filter types ✓
• More of the same features/functions Serum has ✓

By knowing all the best Serum alternatives (whether it’s a free version or paid option), you’ll have the tools to take your sound design to the next level. 

You can explore new techniques, knock out unique tracks, and push your creativity further than ever. 

Plus, your music will stand out in any mix, and you’ll keep growing your skills along the way, which is what it’s all about.

Free Alternatives

To kick things off, let’s start with the best free alternatives that can still deliver high-quality sound and impressive features without costing a dime. Each free alternative is super solid, so regardless of what you choose, it will be on point.

#1. Surge XT

Surge XT is hands-down one of the most versatile free Serum alternatives on the market, with a dual-oscillator design that supports over 100 factory wavetables.

You can load custom wavetables all day long.

Plus, you can dive deep into the modulation system, which offers 16 assignable slots and lets you modulate nearly any parameter with sources like: 

• LFOs
• Envelopes
• Note velocity 

The oscillators themselves are incredibly flexible as well, featuring FM synthesis, ring modulation, and wave shaping for killer sound design. 

A standout feature is its wide range of filter types, including a vowel filter that can morph through human vocal tones and a comb filter for creating plucked string effects. 

On top of this, Surge XT includes 24 built-in effects like granular reverb, phaser, and distortion so it’s perfect for creating polished/professional sounds right off rip.

What impresses me most is its well-organized user interface, which balances complexity and accessibility.

I would, however, love to see a more modern browser for presets, but overall it’s one of the best Serum alternatives in the game (especially for a free version)

#2. TyrellN6

TyrellN6 by u-he is a powerhouse for analog-style sounds and one of the best free options to replace Serum for sure.

It features two oscillators and a sub-oscillator that deliver thick, warm tones ideal for basses, pads, and leads. 

The oscillators support pulse width modulation and oscillator sync, which can add depth and movement to your patches. 

When it comes to modulation options, it includes two snappy LFOs and a modulation matrix that lets you assign sources like velocity or aftertouch.

This way, you can control various parameters and get as crazy as you want.

One standout feature in my opinion is the built-in “analog” detune mode, which gives your sounds that subtle, unpredictable drift found in vintage hardware synths. 

While the user interface is straightforward, I do wish there was a better way to organize the presets…

That said, TyrellN6’s quality and simplicity make it one of my go-to free synths for creating timeless analog tones and one of the best Serum alternatives.

#3. Dexed

Dexed is another must-have if you’re into FM synthesis and looking for a free alternative to Serum with that capability. 

It emulates the legendary Yamaha DX7 and allows you to dive deep into six-operator FM synthesis with detailed control over every operator’s: 

• Frequency ratio
• Amplitude
• Envelope

This free Serum alternative features over 1,000 preset patches compatible with the original DX7 一 giving you instant access to iconic sounds. 

While the interface may seem complex at first, its parameter sliders make it easier to understand and tweak. 

I love that you can load your own SysEx files, which makes Dexed perfect for those wanting to expand their library (which I know you all do).

I am blown away by its sound quality, don’t get me wrong, but I’d recommend pairing it with external effects to polish the raw tones it produces.

#4. Tunefish4

Tunefish4 may not be as well-known as some other free options/other synths in general, but it packs a surprising punch for its size and simplicity. 

This lightweight synth uses additive and wavetable synthesis, with a unique approach to wave generation that allows you to shape wavetables on the fly. 

You can manipulate up to 32 partials, in fact.

The onboard filter section includes multimode filters that can add grit or smoothness to your sound, depending on the settings. 

It includes four multimode filter types: 

• Low-pass
• High-pass
• Band-pass
• Notch

And, bonus, each filter has adjustable cutoff and resonance controls to shape your sound with razor-sharp precision.

Its modulation capabilities (while more limited than Surge XT or Helm) include two LFOs and an ADSR envelope 一 providing enough flexibility for most creative tasks. 

The LFOs feature adjustable wave shapes (sine, triangle, square, and sawtooth), a sync-to-tempo option for rhythmic modulation.

And, a frequency range from 0.01 Hz to 20 Hz so it’s great for everything from subtle vibrato to wild filter sweeps.

Another feature I appreciate is its minimal CPU usage, so it’s perfect for those working on less powerful setups as well.

While I’ve found its presets/preset packs to be a somewhat basic version, the ease of creating your own sounds in this free Serum alternative more than makes up for it. 

For a free version, it definitely gets the job done, bottom line.

#5. Helm

Helm is an open-source powerhouse that offers a surprising amount of features for a free Serum alternative. 

It supports polyphonic wavetable synthesis (up to 32 voices) with two main oscillators, a sub-oscillator, and noise generator.

Also, an oscillator detune and phase options, so that’s always a plus.

The modulation system is intuitive, with draggable mod sources that make assigning LFOs, envelopes, or velocity to parameters quick, easy, and visual.

Including three ADSR envelopes and three LFOs, each is capable of controlling multiple destinations.

The LFOs support a range of wave shapes and adjustable sync-to-tempo options (the LFO frequency range spans from 0.01 Hz to 100 Hz for subtle and intense creations).

 

When it comes to built-in effects, you’ve got it all, like delay, distortion, and formant filtering, which can completely transform your sound with just a few tweaks:

• The delay offers adjustable time, feedback, and mix settings.
• The distortion includes drive and tone controls for anything from warm saturation to aggressive crunch. 
• The formant filter lets you manipulate vowel-like sounds.

With them, you can give your unique patches a human-like or robotic character depending on the settings.

Helm also has MPE support (MIDI Polyphonic Expression), which adds yet another layer of expression for those using MIDI polyphonic controllers. 

The user interface is modern and clean, but I’d like to see more detailed visual feedback for modulation to be honest…

Despite this, Helm’s combination of features and flexibility makes it one of my favorite free wavetable synthesizers.

#6. Odin 2

Odin 2 is a sick, feature-packed free alternative to Serum that excels in both sound quality and flexibility. 

Its three powerful oscillators offer a variety of waveform options, including: 

• Traditional analog shapes
• Wavetable oscillators
• Even physical modeling (which is awesome) 

You can load custom wavetables or create your own wavetables, which is always significant/important.

Meaning, you can easily create your own sounds with precision or use its onboard library for quick inspiration 一 dealer’s choice.

The modulation system is super impressive, with a flexible routing matrix and support for sources like LFOs, envelopes, and MIDI input to modulate nearly any parameter. 

A standout feature is its impressive filter section, which includes over 10 unique filter types 一 ranging from Moog-style low-pass to aggressive high-pass filters. 

The built-in effects, like delay, chorus, and distortion, let you further sculpt your sound without the need for external plugins, so that’s on point as well.

Personally, I’m happy with its professional sound quality, although the user interface could use a bit of streamlining to improve workflow. 

But, overall, it’s a solid Serum alternative and it would be a mistake to dismiss it just because of that.

Side note, if you want to learn all about Serum itself, I got you covered. 

#7. Synth1

Synth1 is a classic in the world of free synths/wavetable synthesizers and remains one of the best Serum alternatives ever (especially for those new to sound design). 

Inspired by the Nord Lead 2, it features two oscillators with FM synthesis capabilities so you can play around with everything from smooth pads to gritty leads. 

The modulation system includes two LFOs and an arpeggiator, so it really does have a surprising amount of flexibility for a free plugin. 

Its onboard effects, such as delay and chorus, are simple but effective, which help you  add depth and polish your patches to perfection (say that three times fast).

If you’re looking for a massive preset library, it’s definitely on point because it includes thousands of user-made patches. 

It’s great for inspiration and learning sound design techniques. 

While Synth1’s interface feels dated compared to modern synths, its low CPU usage and reliable performance make it a must-have for any producer/production process.

Paid Alternatives

Now that you know the best free alternatives, let’s break down the best paid versions that take sound design to the next level. These Serum alternatives bring advanced features, premium sound quality, and unique functions so you can bang out masterpieces all day.

#1. KiloHearts Phase Plant

KiloHearts Phase Plant is arguably the most modular synth on the market (and my personal favorite, by the way). 

It gives you unparalleled flexibility for sound designers, and its generator section allows you to combine (in any configuration):

• Wavetable oscillators
• Sample playback
• Analog-style oscillators
• Noise generators

One of the best features of Phase Plant in my opinion is its ability to stack multiple filter types and route them creatively through its drag-and-drop interface. 

With over 30 built-in effects, including distortion, phaser, and reverb, Phase Plant ensures high-quality effects without needing any extra plugins. 

The modulation section is insanely powerful as well 一 unlimited LFOs, envelopes, and macros, all easily assignable to any parameter. 

Personally, I find its ability to create complex, evolving patches unmatched, though it does have a longer learning curve compared to simpler synthesizers. 

Bottom line, when it comes to Serum alternatives, Phase Plant is certainly #1 in my book (and much more intuitive than the free options, of course).

#2. Native Instruments Massive X

Native Instruments Massive X continues the legacy of its predecessor with a completely redesigned engine and workflow. 

At its core are two wavetable oscillators capable of generating a wide range of sounds, from analog warmth to digital sharpness, with 170 wavetables to choose from. 

The modulation options are extensive, with 9 slots for LFOs and envelopes, plus unique Performer modulation lanes for drawing custom curves. 

Massive X’s “Routing Table” is epic too, which lets you route signals freely between oscillators, filters, and effects for unparalleled sound-shaping. 

The built-in effects (dimension expander, chorus, and EQ) add a polished finish to your sound.

Side note, while I love the sonic possibilities, I find its interface a bit overwhelming at first. 

But, once you’re familiar with Native Instruments Massive X, you’ll see exactly why it’s crowned one of the most powerful wavetable synths on the market.

#3. Arturia Pigments

Arturia Pigments is one of the most visually intuitive wavetable synthesizers available, with its latest version introducing even more features to expand your creative horizons.

So, if you’re looking for one of the best Serum alternatives in the industry, never overlook Pigments because the benefits are basically endless.

It’s another one of my favorites in general, so I definitely recommend trying it out.

The dual-engine design lets you blend wavetable synthesis with virtual analog, granular, or harmonic oscillators 一 providing super versatile sounds. 

One of its best features is the “Harmonic Engine,” which enables additive synthesis for creating rich, complex tones. 

The modulation section is just as solid, offering draggable sources, and the “function” generators allow for intricate/evolving modulators. 

With over 100 built-in filters and effects like tape echo and bit crusher, Pigments excels at producing high-quality sounds with minimal external processing. 

Personally, I find its interface incredibly user-friendly, though some might feel overwhelmed by the crazy amount of options available. 

But, if that’s your biggest problem, then you don’t really have any problems, am I right?

If you’re looking for a synth that combines power and ease of use, Pigments is a top contender as one of the best Serum alternatives, and that’s not changing.

#4. Spectrasonics Omnisphere

Omnisphere is another GOAT when it comes to synthesizers. 

It comes packed with over 14,000 sounds and a powerful synthesis engine that combines wavetable synthesis, granular synthesis, and sampling all in one.

One of its standout features is the ability to use your own audio files as sound sources, which makes it super versatile for creating unique tones. 

Its modulation system is unmatched, with 48 slots for LFOs, envelopes, and step sequencers, which can be easily assigned to parameters (drag-and-drop interface). 

Omnisphere’s sound quality is top-notch as well, thanks to high-resolution filters and effects like the “Innerspace” effect, which creates ambient, evolving textures. 

Personally, I’m amazed by its “Orb” feature, which allows real-time, intelligent modulation of multiple parameters. 

But, the sheer size of the library can make navigation feel a bit daunting for newbies, although that is a pretty good problem to have in the long run just like Pigments.

#5. LennarDigital Sylenth1

Sylenth1 remains a favorite in the industry for its warm, analog-style sound and straightforward design, making it the perfect Serum alternative. 

With four oscillators capable of generating up to 32 voices each, it’s perfect for creating thick, lush pads, punchy leads, and intricate plucks (whatever you’re going for).

The built-in modulation options include two ADSR envelopes and two LFOs, which can be routed to multiple parameters for added movement and complexity. 

Its filter section is on point as well, like all of the best wavetable synthesizers, featuring both low-pass and high-pass modes with drive controls for added grit and warmth. 

One thing I love about Sylenth1 is its intuitive workflow 一 everything is laid out clearly, making it a great option for both beginners and experienced sound designers. 

NOTE: It doesn’t have the extensive features of many synths that are newer (like Pigments), but it is better than other wavetable synths in its class for certain tasks.

#6. Parawave Rapid

Parawave Rapid is a hidden gem among wavetable synthesizers, so if you’ve never heard of it, don’t feel like you’re out of touch, but definitely check it out.

It comes packed with a unique multi-layer architecture with up to 8 sound layers per patch so you can create all day. 

Each layer includes three oscillators, which support wavetable synthesis, standard analog waveforms, and sample playback. 

And yes, you can load custom wavetables and samples.

The filter section offers a variety of modes, including low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and comb filters, with controls for cutoff, resonance, and drive.

The modulation system is intuitive/not limited and includes LFOs, multi-stage envelopes (MSEG), and step sequencers that can modulate nearly any parameter. 

NOTE: The LFOs have adjustable wave shapes, rates, and sync options, while the step sequencer can create rhythmic patterns with up to 32 steps per sequence.

The “Drum Kit” layer in this version is sick, which lets you load and sequence percussive samples directly within the synth. 

You can assign up to 16 drum sounds, with individual controls for pitch, pan, and volume, making it perfect for both melodic and percussive elements.

Rapid also has high-quality effects like convolution reverb and granular delay, which add depth and polish to your patches. 

While I’ve found the interface slightly cluttered, the insane power and flexibility it offers make it one of the best Serum alternatives for advanced sound design, hands down.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it: the 13 absolute best Serum alternatives in the game (both free & paid). 

Each one we talked about today is packed with powerful features and unique functions to help you create professional, high-quality music every single time.

Plus, their versatility, flexibility, and undeniable sound quality make them worthy competitors to Serum. 

It really all boils down to finding the right tool for your workflow and creative needs, but any one of the best Serum alternatives we talked about are super on point.

And, as an added bonus, you’ve got to check out this legendary Free Serum Essentials pack that contains the most clean, polished, and professional Serum presets ever. 

So, whether you’re looking for 808s, pads, plucks, or anything in between, this pack has the best of the best, guaranteed.

Stop trying to reinvent the wheel, and start using the right sounds for your genre 一 this pack is the key to having your songs sound professional and getting more plays. 

Plus, every preset inside is fully loaded with macros and flexible parameters so you can tweak, customize, and truly make each sound your own.

Bottom line, the best Serum alternatives give you the freedom to experiment, innovate, and make your tracks dominate the competition.

When you have the right tools (like the best Serum alternatives we talked about today) and sounds at your fingertips, there’s no limit to what you can achieve, so get to it!

Until next time…