8.3Great
Dexed is a free open-source Yamaha DX7-style FM synthesizer and cartridge librarian for Windows, macOS, and Linux in VST, AU, and LV2 formats.
Plugin comparison
Dexed vs Surge XT
Specs, price and the Dubspot Score, side by side — with our verdict on which synth to buy.
Independent score / workflow fit / buying signal
Contenders
The side-by-side
8.7Great
Surge XT is a free open-source hybrid synthesizer with deep modulation, 12 oscillator algorithms, MPE, microtuning, and 2800+ factory patches.
Score verdict
Which should you buy?
On the Dubspot Score, Surge XT comes out ahead (8.7). That said, the right pick depends on your workflow and budget — read both reviews before deciding.
Technical matrix
Specs compared
| Signal | Dexed | Surge XT |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Dubspot Score | 8.3 | 8.7 |
| Formats | VST, AU, LV2, Standalone | VST3, AU, CLAP, LV2, Standalone |
| Type | FM synthesizer (Yamaha DX7 model) + SysEx librarian | Open-source hybrid synthesizer |
| License | Free / GPL v3 open source | — |
| Synthesis | 6-operator FM (DX7-style) | — |
| Cartridge tools | MIDI cartridge librarian/manager for DX7 SysEx | — |
| Formats | VST, AU, LV2 (platform-dependent); standalone builds | VST3, AU, CLAP, LV2, Standalone |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS (Intel/Apple Silicon), Linux |
| Version | — | 1.3.4 (stable) |
| Oscillators | — | 3 per scene; 12 algorithms (Classic, Modern, Wavetable, FM2/FM3, String, Twist, and more) |
| Factory content | — | 2800+ patches; 700+ wavetables |
| Scenes | — | Two full synthesis scenes for layer/split patches |
See the full plugin database for more comparisons.