Cardinal
7.5#5 in software synthesizersFree planFree planWebAPILinuxmacOS
VisitCardinal vs SynthMaster 3
SynthMaster 3
7.7#3 in software synthesizers$99 one-timeFree planiOSmacOSWindows
VisitWhat both publish
| Fact | Cardinal | SynthMaster 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Documentation depth | The official site documents OSC activation, ports, message formats and headless configuration, while general usage relies heavily on VCV Rack documentation. | KV331’s downloads page exposes a SynthMaster 2.8 manual, while an independent 2026 report says written SynthMaster 3 documentation was absent and an unofficial manual was created. |
| Product | Cardinal is a free, open-source virtual modular synthesizer based on VCV Rack and packaged as a self-contained plugin and standalone app. | SynthMaster 3 is a modular software synthesizer available as a plug-in. |
Cardinal plans
- CardinalFree
- FreeFree
SynthMaster 3 plans
- SynthMaster 3$99, paid once
- SynthMaster 3 Free BetaFree
- Upgrade from SynthMaster 2$29, paid once
- SynthMaster 3 upgrade from SynthMaster 2$29, paid once
- Upgrade from SynthMaster One$49, paid once
- SynthMaster 3 upgrade from SynthMaster 3 Player$49, paid once
Pick Cardinal if…
Cardinal suits musicians who want a free modular synthesizer in standalone or plugin form, with MIDI support and a substantial included module set. Users who need to add external Rack modules or use OSC from a plugin should note those limits.
Pick SynthMaster 3 if…
SynthMaster 3 suits music makers seeking a modular synthesizer with multiple synthesis methods, editing tools, and DAW routing options. Its standalone app and plug-in formats support Windows and macOS workflows.