Helm
7.2#6 in software synthesizersLinuxmacOSWindows
VisitHelm vs SynthMaster 3
SynthMaster 3
7.7#3 in software synthesizers$99 one-timeFree planiOSmacOSWindows
VisitWhat both publish
| Fact | Helm | SynthMaster 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Documentation depth | The official manual is a 32-page v0.9.0 PDF covering synthesis modules, modulation, patch browsing, audio settings and performance controls. | 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. |
| Licence | The source repository identifies Helm as GPL-3.0 licensed open-source software. | The EULA grants a proprietary, nonexclusive licence for one user and prohibits reverse engineering, decompilation and derivative works. |
| Modulation | Modulation sources include two monophonic LFOs, one polyphonic LFO, three envelopes, keyboard controls, random values and polyphonic aftertouch. | Each layer can use up to 32 modulation sources, including envelopes, LFO variants, Noise LFO and Scaler. |
Helm plans
- Pay what you want—
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 Helm if…
Helm suits people making electronic music who want a free synthesizer with standalone and plugin options. It may also appeal to users who value software they can study, modify, and redistribute.
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.