Dexed FM Synthesizers
dexed
Dexed is one of those rare free synths that genuinely earns legendary status. Closely modelled on the Yamaha DX7, it delivers authentic FM synthesis while doubling as a powerful patch editor and SysEx librarian for the original hardware.
Whether you want glassy keys, metallic basses, evolving pads, or full-on 80s digital nostalgia, Dexed gives you the real DX experience without cutting corners. It stays deliberately focused on accuracy and compatibility, making it as useful for purists as it is for modern producers.
System Requirements:
- 32 bit
- 64 bit
- VST / AU
- Windows
- MacOs
Faithful DX7 Engine
At its core, Dexed is built around a sound engine closely modelled on the original DX7, using floating-point precision for improved stability while retaining the character of the hardware.
All 144 DX7 parameters are available from a single interface, making deep FM programming far more approachable than on the original unit.
Compatibility is where Dexed really shines. It fully supports DX7 and TX7 SysEx input and output, meaning you can load, edit, save, and send patches directly to hardware.
You can even use Dexed as a real-time editor and cartridge manager, something that alone makes it invaluable if you own vintage Yamaha FM gear.
Modern Workflow, Open Source Future
While the synthesis stays classic, the workflow is thoroughly modern. Each operator features a real-time VU meter so you can instantly see modulation activity, making complex FM routing far easier to understand.
Recent updates have added scalable UI, CLAP support, Apple Silicon builds, microtuning via Scala and MTS-ESP, MPE support, and improved LFO and envelope accuracy.
Dexed is fully open source under the GPL v3 license and actively developed by a passionate community, with contributions from developers also involved in projects like Surge XT and OB-Xd.
It runs as a plugin or standalone app across Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it one of the most accessible FM synths ever released.
Key Features:
- Accurate DX7-style FM synthesis engine
- 144 fully automatable DX7 parameters
- Full DX7 and TX7 SysEx import and export
- Acts as patch editor and cartridge manager for DX7 hardware
- Real-time VU meters for each operator
- Scalable UI with modern redraw performance
- MPE and microtuning support (Scala and MTS-ESP)
- CLAP, VST, AU, LV2 formats plus standalone app
- Cross-platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
- Open source and completely free
FAQ
Yes. While FM can be complex, Dexed’s single-panel layout and operator VU meters make signal flow much easier to understand than on hardware.
Absolutely. Dexed can load and save any DX7 or TX7 SysEx files, including full cartridges and single programs.
It’s extremely close. The goal of the project is compatibility and authenticity, not reimagining FM synthesis.
Yes. Dexed can send and receive SysEx in real time, making it a practical editor and librarian for DX7 and TX7 units.
Yes. Dexed is open source and continues to receive updates, including modern plugin formats, tuning systems, and performance improvements.
