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 Tupos MPE FM
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
Tupos MPE FM is an expressive FM synthesizer with 2, 4, and 6-operator engines, on-knob modulation assignment, full MPE control, an arpeggiator, a step sequencer, and an eight-slot effects chain.
Technical matrix
Specs compared
| Signal | Dexed | Tupos MPE FM |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | €39.99 (€29.99 launch) |
| Dubspot Score | 8.3 | — |
| Formats | VST, AU, LV2, Standalone | VST3, AU, AUv3, Standalone |
| Type | FM synthesizer (Yamaha DX7 model) + SysEx librarian | FM synthesizer with direct on-knob modulation |
| 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, AUv2, standalone (macOS and Windows); standalone and AUv3 (iPhone, iPad, Apple Silicon Mac) |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux | — |
| Engines | — | 2, 4, and 6 operators sharing one panel |
| Algorithms | — | 8 at four operators, 32 plus feedback at six, custom routing matrix |
| Expression | — | Full MPE (per-note pitch, pressure, slide) plus Standard MIDI |
| Sequencing | — | Arpeggiator and step sequencer with per-step velocity and length |
| Effects | — | Eight-slot chain with per-effect controls and modulation badges |
See the full plugin database for more comparisons.