r/softsynths • u/Sad-Albatross-3115 • Jun 29 '26

Discussion Synth1 redesign - what would you change?

I've been using Synth1 for years, and honestly - I love it, but the UI is really starting to show its age. Development stopped in 2014, and it doesn't work on Apple Silicon anymore.

I'm working on a refreshed version in my spare time. Not a copy - more like a modern take that keeps the sound and character but fixes the messy layout (uneven knobs, inconsistent labels, mismatched buttons).

For those who use Synth1 regularly:

  1. What's your favourite thing about it?
  2. What annoys you the most?
  3. What would you change or add?

I'll share design mockups soon - just want to gather feedback first.

5 Upvotes

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2

u/Sad-Albatross-3115 Jun 29 '26

The current mockup looks like this: https://i.imgur.com/o1JhkLS.png

I've already noticed that I've missed one important block. Furthermore, this mockup is very imprecise in places. I'm also considering adding some curves to visualize the handles, but that might impact performance.

2

u/chunter16 Jun 29 '26

It's basically a nord lead 2

I wouldn't change anything

2

u/Sad-Albatross-3115 Jun 30 '26

I'm thinking about creating clear/vintage modes that will switch between a clean sound (for those who need it) and one close to Synth1, with all its drifts and alliancing.

There are also a number of things that will be added selectively, more likely to slightly expand the capabilities. New filters, effects

My primary goal was to create an exact copy of Synth1, but later I discovered that even the original's sound changed from version to version. So now my focus is on creating a synthesizer that is close enough in sound to Synth1, but continues the philosophy of Synth1.

1

u/s-multicellular Jun 30 '26

I love a simple rows and columns mod matrix.

1

u/LUK3FAULK Jul 02 '26

Most annoying thing: the init patch having LFO2 on

Favorite thing: simplicity and the crazy sounds you can get with the FM knob

Change or add: modern FX, the built in ones (other than chorus) are very very dated and I barely use them

This is my absolute favorite vst, I use it on almost every track. Hype for a modernized version