Free Analog Modeled Synth Plugin, POLYFREQ
Dezert Audio has released PolyFreq, a free analog modeled synthesizer plugin for macOS and Windows.
PolyFreq is a synthesis engine rather than a sample library, but the focus on vintage analog character is just as present.
The synth draws on Soviet-era analog hardware. The developer describes the filter as “bold Soviet-style,” and the sound character fits that description. It’s pretty raw, but I like it.
When listening, the inspiration feels close to the Polyvox 18, a Soviet analog synth from the early 1980s that has its own raw, distinctive sound. It drew from the Korg MS-10, but kind of went in its own direction, and PolyFreq has a similar rawness.
Under the hood, you get dual oscillators feeding a nonlinear analog-style filter with three modes: low pass, band pass, and high pass. The signal path uses saturation and a nonlinear response to introduce the analog character and instability you get from real hardware.
Unison mode is also available with adjustable drift, spread, and detune. The drift control is my favorite part of the synth and is super effective at adding subtle pitch instability, making the sound feel more alive.
Another cool feature is the randomizer button near the top of the interface. One click generates a completely new patch, and the results are usually more musical than random noise.
After a few random clicks, I landed on a bass sound with sync modulation that had an awesome glitchy and somewhat unpredictable quality that worked really well. If you’re looking for quick analog-style inspiration, it’s a good place to start.
PolyFreq is free to download from Dezert Audio’s website. You need to complete a free checkout and create an account. When you open the plugin for the first time, enter your email and password to activate it. Donations are optional.
PolyFreq is available in AU and VST3 formats for macOS (Sequoia 15.7 and above) and VST3 for Windows 10 (64-bit). Both versions require an internet connection for activation. Download: PolyFreq (FREE)
