So, what's the best-sounding subtractive, non-uber synth?

[Tobi MM]

Diva or Dune, depends on what you want, more analogue or more digital.


Although i love to do basic subtractive stuff with Omnisphere.

That's it, that's the post. 500$ - Plugin used for it's saw waves.

[Raketenbauer]

If you like FabFilter GUIs, try their Twin 3 synth. It has a 30-day trial.

[Teksonik]

So, what is the most pleasant-sounding, subtractive synth these days?

The one you find the most pleasing. Demo, demo, demo, until you find the one(s) that you like.

The one I like for subtractive is DUNE 3. I sold my DIVA license on because DUNE 3's VA sound is so pleasing to me.

The problem with these never ending "what's the best" threads is that given enough time almost every synth will be recommended even though many don't have anything to do with the original question. So you end up back at square one with a boat load of conflicting opinions, and having to try all the demos yourself anyway.

There is no substitute for putting the work in and spending time with a plugin's demo.

I really like the sound of the new Charlatan 3, unfortunately the user interface and operation suck in my view.

Be prepared to learn how to operate whatever synth(s) you choose. There is no 100% perfect workflow for 100% of the users.

The trick is to learn how to adapt to whatever imperfection you perceive (like the one in Charlatan 3) and focus on the sound. If you love the sound then you learn to use the synth. That's just an unavoidable fact of life.

Oh and why can't new members ever find this sub-forum?

KVR.png

[Sinisterbr]

Here’s the truth. Everything is awesome. It’s come down to personal taste and what type of features are important.

Exactly this. These days it's simply down to personal taste. Even free ones sound great (Charlatan 3).
Me, for simple, bread and butter, I'd say TAL-Mod.

[ramseysounds]

for simpler, no nonsense sounds then i'd check out E-phonics Invader 2.

https://www.e-phonic.com/invader.html

Has a warmth about that makes it great for basses and pads but still cuts through when required. Pay what you want starting at €5.

This looks brilliant. Not seen it before. All that for a fiver?!

Need to check this out

[HiEnergy]

Me, for simple, bread and butter, I'd say TAL-Mod.

IIRC, the OP doesn't want the dangly bits...

[egbert101]

People are just naming their favourite synth at this point and not really answering the OG questions.

[chk071]

People are just naming their favourite synth at this point and not really answering the OG questions.

Mostly because there isn't a definite answer for the "OG" (OP). If he's asking for the most pleasant sounding VA subtrative, then it's no wonder that he will get a list of people's favorite synths.

[Lbdunequest]

Another name your favourite synth list by the same people. Please mods lock this useless tread.

[HOTF]

Here’s the truth. Everything is awesome. It’s come down to personal taste and what type of features are important.

don't tell him the truth

[rod_zero]

Diva for me

[martinjuenke]

Just buy all, then you have your perfect synth.

[zerocrossing]

Just buy all, then you have your perfect synth.

Don’t let our secret out! I was just getting traction with my “everything is awesome” post!!

[Odd Fella]

Thanks for your suggestions, which tell me that there is not much new stuff I missed. Most of what you suggested I already know and dislike for one reason or another (Diva, Dune, Sylenth1, Saurus, Tal Mod etc.).

So, I will wait and hope that the Charlatan developer adds mouse-wheel support and maybe improve a few other things...

By pleasant I mean polished, hi-fi. Basically, not authentic analog, which always sounds kind of brutish and cold to me.

[Odd Fella]

Just buy all, then you have your perfect synth.

To the contrary, I only want to use a single synth for everything.