Software synthesizer

A software synthesizer or softsynth is a computer program that generates digital audio, usually for music.

Computer software that can create sounds or music is not new, but advances in processing speed now allow softsynths to accomplish the same tasks that previously required the dedicated hardware of a conventional synthesizer.

The emulation can even extend to having graphics that model the exact placements of the original hardware controls.

Popular synthesizers such as the Moog Minimoog, Yamaha DX7, Korg M1, Sequential Circuits Prophet-5, Oberheim OB-X, Roland Jupiter-8, ARP 2600 and dozens of other classics have been recreated in software.

GForce produces a Minimoog (with sounds designed by Rick Wakeman) and a version of the ARP Odyssey.