Update for 64 bit
This was originally posted in 2008 and has been updated for 2021. Many of us are now using 64 bit DAW (Digital Audio Workstations) like Ableton Live 10 or 11, which need 64-bit VST software synth plugins. Let's have a look at our original favourites:Superwave is now available in 64 bit https://www.superwavesynths.com/support
Greenoak Crystal is also available in 64 bit http://www.greenoak.com/crystal/indexDesktop3.html
Neon Gate is still in 32 bit http://www.dreamvortex.co.uk/
If you want to use 32 bit VST plugins in a 64 bit DAW (like Ableton Live 11) you need a wrapper like Jbridge https://jstuff.wordpress.com/jbridge/
Finally, here are some videos featuring the favourite free VST synth plugins for 2021
The Original Post
Crystal - good for pads, especially if you like moving pads, even better than the Korg Wavestation
http://www.greenoak.com/crystal/
or get it free when you buy Computer Music magazine http://www.computermusic.co.uk/ available in Singapore at Borders book store, Holland Village magazine stand, Raffles Place MRT magazine stand
Neon Gate - excellent for making your pads or basslines chop up and move to their own rhythm, as a "trance gate" effect (if you don't understand, just download it and try it)
http:// www.dreamvortexstudio.co.uk
Chopper - same as the above
http://free-plugin-list.com/plugin.php?id=320
LPLL - excellent for arpeggiating patches, fat leads and pads, Trance sounds
It's in Japanese ... http://blackorwhite.blog5.fc2.com/blog-entry-87.html
And: Buy Computer Music magazine http://www.computermusic.co.uk/ available in Singapore at Borders book store, Holland Village magazine stand, Raffles Place MRT magazine stand
- every month they feature an excellent collection of freeware software synths and effects from the top programmers e.g. Genesis, Zebra, Astralis Orgone, Dominator, Vascillator
Got your own favourites? Please post a comment below thanks!
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