| Alternative | Type | Why It's a Great Choice | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Wavetable | A truly professional-grade synth often compared to the $189 Serum. It's incredibly powerful and completely free. | | Surge XT | Hybrid | An open-source powerhouse with a huge array of synthesis types, including wavetable and FM. One of the deepest free synths available. | | KOMPLETE START | Collection | A completely free bundle from Native Instruments. It includes REAKTOR PLAYER, KONTAKT 7 PLAYER, and dozens of instruments and effects to get you started. |
