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 Phase Plant
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
Phase Plant is a semi-modular software synthesizer combining wavetable, sample, and noise generators with modular modulation and built-in effects.
Score verdict
Which should you buy?
On the Dubspot Score, Phase Plant 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 | Phase Plant |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | $199 |
| Dubspot Score | 8.3 | 8.7 |
| Formats | VST, AU, LV2, Standalone | VST2, VST3, AU (Audio Unit), AAX |
| Type | FM synthesizer (Yamaha DX7 model) + SysEx librarian | Semi-modular software synthesizer (softsynth) |
| 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 | — |
| Generators | — | Regular waveforms, wavetables, samples, and noise |
| FM/Modulation | — | Cross-modulate and self-modulate volume, frequency, and phase between all signal generators |
| Effects | — | Three effects lanes; includes Kilohearts Essentials effects |
| MIDI | — | MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) support |
| Operating systems | — | Windows and macOS, 64-bit x86 with SSE3; macOS Apple M-series supported |
See the full plugin database for more comparisons.