They are different tools, which is why both are on our list of must-have soft synths. Omnisphere, while being a powerful wavetable synth, is based heavily around its library of samples. Zebra 2 is capable of all main types of synthesis except for wavetables. It should be known though that these two pieces of software are quite different from each other.

Sound designers and synthesizer fanatics could spend hours upon hours discovering new sounds, which is why (along with Omnisphere) it is used by so many professionals, even on mainstream movie productions. Like Omnisphere, it is insanely complex and insanely powerful. This is many people’s ‘desert island’ synth – there is almost nothing you can’t do with it.

If there were a single alternative piece of software to buy to cover all of your synthesis needs, Zebra 2 would probably it. However, it is worth picking up on sale if you don’t own Omnisphere regardless, even if you already own other higher quality synths on this list. It’s an excellent value for the price and will give you a huge palette of sounds to work with, but the quality of the actual samples themselves aren’t at the same level as Omnisphere. That being said, the low price point of Xpand 2 does show. The interface is fairy straightforward and with up to 4 layers per patch (plus over 50 built in effects), there are a lot of options available for those looking to dabble in sound design too. In fact, it is the cheapest option on this list, so if you are looking for a budget soft synth / rompler to get you started, Xpand 2 is an excellent choice. Xpand 2 is another piece of software that does the same thing, at a much cheaper price point – regularly going on sale for $20 or less, vs Omnisphere’s $499 that is almost never discounted.

It also includes a bundle of very high quality samples to work with, in addition to the synthesis engine. Part of what makes Omnisphere such a powerful and unique piece of software, is that it’s more than just a soft synth. So without any further ado, let’s look at the top alternatives for Omnisphere. While nothing exists that is a true replacement for Omnisphere, there are options that will suit most people just fine, well into their music journey. However, there are a number of Omnisphere alternatives available on the market that can get you really far. One that, quite frankly, is a bit too expensive for most people starting out.īecause Omnisphere 2 has become such a critical tool for musical composition and sound design, you may find yourself worrying that you’ll be at a huge disadvantage without it. Yet with its incredible features, synthesis engine and samples comes a hefty price tag. There’s a reason that Omnisphere is one of the most sought after pieces of software for music producers and composers (and made our list of ‘must-have’ synths.)

Best real bass presets for zebra 2