During your search for the best synth plug-ins or software for your synthesizers, you will come across multiple names. A few of them will repeat often. These are Nexus, Serum, and Omnisphere.
Since they are all in the same league, it is easy to get confused. Which one should you go with? Are they the same or are there specific features that set them apart? These questions may confuse you massively, leading to frustration. This is why we thought we would explain each of them and clear the confusion.
Also, since these are all paid software, it is very important to spend wisely after collecting all facts.
Nexus
REFX Nexus is known for its extensive library. It is ROM-based and is perfect for EDM production. The reason why Nexus is so popular and has even been endorsed by popular studios is that it promises superior sound quality. It is also expandable and allows you to download content without any problems. So, it is safe to say that you won’t go wrong with Nexus!
Omnisphere
Omnisphere from Spectrasonics is one of the most popular software synthesizers today. It is more expensive than Nexus but users say that the price is completely justified. The pack is extremely powerful with instruments and features that provide extensive functionality.
In fact, Omnisphere offers so much that beginners or new users may feel intimidated. On the plus side, though, you will get all the help you need from the community of users. The web has a plethora of resources that you can turn to as well.
Serum
If you are looking for a not-very-expensive but still very good synth, Xfer Serum is for you. It is a wavetable synthesizer but this shouldn’t deter you. We understand that old hardware synths had limitations with wavetable technology but not anymore! You won’t face any restrictions with Serum. It is a great option even for simple waveforms. The sound is clear and clean.
Nexus vs Omnisphere vs Serum
Now that we understand each of the software synths, let’s compare them to know which one to go for.
Serum vs Omnisphere
Omnisphere is extremely powerful and has more capability than Serum without a doubt. It supports pretty much everything, which is why it stands out. The only thing we don’t appreciate about it is that it is very heavy at 50 GB+.
Serum, on the other hand, is only a wavetable synthesizer. You should, however, note that Serum is much more affordable, being only half the price of Omnisphere. So, if you are not looking for something over the top or too powerful, Serum is a good choice at a great price.
Serum vs Nexus
Serum takes this away because it is more flexible and easy to use. It also has many good effects and is very visual. Nexus has multiple good samples and presets but is quite heavy. Also, if you need more sounds, you will have to order expansions. That’s additional hassle and money.
Nexus vs Omnisphere
Both these synths are heavy but Omnisphere is 40 GB more! But, Omnisphere wins it in the race of instruments and patches. It has more for you to explore. It also lets you use your own sounds.
So, while both are great when it comes to patches, Omnisphere may be too loud and complicated for a few users. For them, Nexus is a better choice.
Conclusion
All of them are reliable and excellent but they may not make the same sense to everyone. Omnisphere, for example, is for those who want everything and won’t be intimidated by the many functions and features. Serum is for those who want some flexibility and Nexus is for those who want to be able to edit their patches at will.
Make sure you consider all these factors and take the best decision. If you need more help, though, feel free to talk to us. We are always here to help.
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