The best free tools for working with modular synthesis and music

Patching for the people – there’s no reason cost or access has to keep you from the powers and fun of modular synthesis and music making. VCV Rack’s launch this month got lots of attention, but there are other options, too. Here the latest, best picks.

Audacity makers clarify data usage – and there’s not reason to dump the editor yet

In a cycle echoing a controversy earlier this year, Audacity’s new parent again released new legal terms which were then seized upon by social media users. Muse Group have clarified those issues publicly and to CDM.

Peter Kirn - July 5, 2021

OB-Xd 2.0: Open Oberheim-inspired synth for Mac, Windows, Linux adds loads of improvements

discoDSP just released 2.0 of their open-source plug-in inspired by the Oberheim OB-X, with new features, Linux and high-res display support, and more.

Peter Kirn - August 4, 2020

Free modular: open source Mutable Instruments ports expanded in VCV Rack

Peter Kirn - April 22, 2020

In Russia, vintage MeeBlips have custom clones, thanks to open source hardware

Peter Kirn - March 6, 2020

Surge is free, deep synth for every platform, with MPE support

Peter Kirn - April 29, 2019

Check out these amazing DIY controllers people made with OpenDeck

Peter Kirn - December 12, 2018

The guts of Tracktion are now open source for devs to make new stuff

Peter Kirn - November 16, 2018

Powerful SURGE synth for Mac and Windows is now free

Peter Kirn - September 26, 2018

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