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 Reaktor 6
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
8.4Great
Reaktor 6 is Native Instruments' modular sound studio for building and playing custom synths, samplers, effects, and sequencers.
Score verdict
Which should you buy?
On the Dubspot Score, Reaktor 6 comes out ahead (8.4). That said, the right pick depends on your workflow and budget — read both reviews before deciding.
Technical matrix
Specs compared
| Signal | Dexed | Reaktor 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | $199.00 |
| Dubspot Score | 8.3 | 8.4 |
| Formats | VST, AU, LV2, Standalone | Stand-alone, VST, AU (macOS only), AAX |
| Type | FM synthesizer (Yamaha DX7 model) + SysEx librarian | — |
| 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 | — |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux | — |
| Architecture | — | Two structural levels: Primary (graphical signal-flow, event/MIDI/OSC processing) and Core (runtime machine-code audio compiler for custom DSP) |
| Modular Blocks | — | Includes Blocks Base and Blocks Primes for patching modular synths, effect chains, and sequencers; expandable ecosystem |
| Operating system | — | macOS 13, 14, or 15 (latest update) or Windows 10/11 (64-bit, latest Service Pack) |
| CPU & RAM | — | Intel Core i5 or equivalent; Apple Silicon native or via Rosetta 2; 4 GB RAM (6 GB recommended) |
| Plugin formats (macOS) | — | Stand-alone, VST, AU, AAX (64-bit) |
| Plugin formats (Windows) | — | Stand-alone, VST, AAX (64-bit) |
See the full plugin database for more comparisons.