Dexed

Active

asb2m10.github.io

Country: Canada (CA)
Founded: 2014
Developer: Digital Suburban (asb2m10)
Pricing: Free (open-source)
Open source: Yes
Platforms: macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS

Indexes

Audio/Music Production

Overview

Dexed is a free, open-source FM synthesizer plugin that emulates the Yamaha DX7, one of the most influential digital synthesizers in music history. It is designed for music producers, sound designers, and musicians who want access to classic FM synthesis without purchasing hardware or expensive software. The plugin maintains compatibility with original DX7 preset files and adds modern features like a low-pass filter, MPE support, and micro-tuning, making it both a faithful recreation and a contemporary tool.

Key Features

DX7 Emulation - Closely modeled on the Yamaha DX7 with 144 DAW-automatable parameters and full compatibility with DX7 sysex messages.
32 Algorithms - 32 different operator configurations providing diverse tonal possibilities and signal flow routing options.
Operator-Based Architecture - Four operators with sine-wave oscillators, envelopes, and keyboard/velocity parameters for FM synthesis control.
Multi-Platform Support - Runs on macOS, Windows, Linux, and iOS with multiple plugin formats including VST, AU, VST3, and CLAP.
Preset Library - Includes 1024 programs and supports over 20,000 cartridges with 32 patches each on iOS.
Modern Synthesis Features - Adds low-pass filter, MPE support, and micro-tuning capabilities beyond the original DX7.
Sysex Support - Fully supports DX7 input and output sysex messages, enabling use as a patch editor for hardware DX7/TX7 synthesizers.
Feedback Loop - Includes feedback routing to add texture and complexity to synthesized tones.

Pricing

Plan	Price	Includes
Free	$0	Full access to all features, 1024 included programs, multi-platform support

Platforms & Requirements

Dexed runs on macOS, Windows, and Linux as VST/AU/VST3/CLAP plugins, and is available as an iOS app with AudioUnit AUv3 support for use in DAWs like GarageBand and AUM. Installation varies by platform; macOS and Windows have straightforward installers, while Linux requires manual download from the releases page. iOS version requires a camera kit and USB MIDI controller for external hardware control.

Integrations & Ecosystem

Yamaha DX7 sysex import/export
Yamaha TX81Z waveform compatibility
DAW automation of all 144 parameters
MIDI controller support
MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) support
AudioUnit AUv3 plugin format for iOS DAWs
VST3 and CLAP plugin formats
Micro-tuning system integration

Alternatives

App	Difference
Serum	Modern wavetable synthesizer with visual interface; lacks FM synthesis focus and costs $189.
Native Instruments FM8	Commercial FM synthesizer with advanced features and professional support; costs $99 and offers more sound design flexibility.
Operator (Ableton)	FM synthesizer built into Ableton Live; requires Live subscription and integrates directly into the DAW.
Synthmata	Another free FM synthesizer alternative with different interface design and feature set.

Reputation

Dexed is widely regarded as an excellent free FM synthesizer that successfully captures the essence of the Yamaha DX7 while adding useful modern features. Its open-source nature and multi-platform support make it accessible to a broad audience, and its ability to load original DX7 presets is highly valued by users. The main limitation is sparse documentation due to its community-driven development model, and some users note that iOS sysex support can be inconsistent across devices. Overall, it is considered a reliable, feature-rich tool for FM synthesis that punches well above its price point.

Sources (8)