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 Plogue Chipsynth OPMZ
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
Plogue Chipsynth OPMZ is a multi-layer FM synth that emulates four classic Yamaha four-operator chips, the OPM, OPP, OPZ and OPZ2, behind the DX100, TX81Z, DX11 and V50.
Technical matrix
Specs compared
| Signal | Dexed | Plogue Chipsynth OPMZ |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | $49.95 |
| Dubspot Score | 8.3 | — |
| Formats | VST, AU, LV2, Standalone | VST3, AU, AAX, CLAP, Standalone |
| Type | FM synthesizer (Yamaha DX7 model) + SysEx librarian | Multi-chip four-operator FM 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, AAX, CLAP, standalone (Windows, macOS, Linux) |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux | — |
| Chips emulated | — | OPM (YM2151), OPP (YM2164), OPZ (YM2414), OPZ2 (YM2424) |
| Hardware modeled | — | DX21, DX27, DX100, TX81Z, DX11, V50, arcade hardware |
| Layering | — | Up to 8 sounds on the stack page, keyboard mapping |
| Patch import | — | SysEx patch file loading |
| Extras | — | VGM playback and analysis, CSM mode, chip-accurate noise and LFO, NKS |
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