Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

FluidSynth VS LinuxSampler

Compare FluidSynth VS LinuxSampler and see what are their differences

FluidSynth logo FluidSynth

FluidSynth is a real-time software synthesizer based on the SoundFont 2 specifications and has...

LinuxSampler logo LinuxSampler

LinuxSampler - free, open source pure software audio sampler with professional grade features.
  • FluidSynth Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-04-29
  • LinuxSampler Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-01-27

FluidSynth features and specs

  • Cross-platform compatibility
    FluidSynth is available on multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it accessible to a broad range of users.
  • Real-time MIDI synthesis
    It offers the ability to synthesize and manipulate MIDI streams in real-time, providing a responsive performance for musicians and developers.
  • SoundFont support
    FluidSynth supports SoundFont files, which allows users to use a variety of high-quality instrument samples to enhance their MIDI performances.
  • Open-source software
    As an open-source project, FluidSynth allows users to view, modify, and contribute to its codebase, fostering a community-driven development model.
  • Low CPU Usage
    FluidSynth is efficient in terms of CPU usage, which makes it suitable for use in environments where computational resources are limited.

Possible disadvantages of FluidSynth

  • Complex setup for beginners
    New users might find the initial setup of FluidSynth challenging due to the need for configuring SoundFonts and settings manually.
  • Limited GUI options
    While it supports command-line usage, FluidSynth lacks a robust graphical user interface option, which could be a deterrent for users who prefer GUI-based interaction.
  • Dependency on SoundFonts
    FluidSynth's output quality relies heavily on the SoundFont used, meaning low-quality SoundFonts can result in subpar audio output.
  • Technical knowledge requirement
    To fully leverage FluidSynth’s capabilities, users may need a solid understanding of MIDI, audio routing, and synthesizer technologies.
  • Limited native effects
    FluidSynth offers only basic effects, which might require users to employ additional software for advanced audio manipulation and effects processing.

LinuxSampler features and specs

  • Open Source
    LinuxSampler is open source, allowing users to access, modify, and distribute the software freely, making it a flexible option for those who prefer customizable software solutions.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility
    The software is compatible with various operating systems, including Linux, Windows, and macOS, providing flexibility for users on different platforms.
  • High-Quality Sampling
    LinuxSampler is designed to deliver high-quality sample playback, which is crucial for professional audio production and composition.
  • Advanced Features
    It offers advanced features like disk streaming, which allows for efficient handling of large sample libraries, reducing memory requirements.
  • Community Support
    A dedicated community of users and developers contributes to the project's development, offering support and resources for troubleshooting and enhancement.

Possible disadvantages of LinuxSampler

  • Complex Setup
    The initial setup and configuration can be complex, requiring users to have a good understanding of audio software and systems.
  • Limited GUI Interface
    LinuxSampler's graphical user interface might not be as intuitive or visually appealing as some commercial competitors, which can be a drawback for users who prefer visual ease.
  • Lack of Official Documentation
    There is a lack of comprehensive official documentation, which can make it difficult for new users to understand and utilize all the features fully.
  • Slow Development
    The development pace may be slower compared to commercial software, leading to delays in new features and updates being rolled out.
  • Limited Instrument Library
    Compared to commercial sampling solutions, LinuxSampler may have a smaller library of ready-to-use instruments, requiring users to source or create their own samples.

FluidSynth videos

MIDI SoundFont synthetizer with Intel Edison and Fluidsynth

More videos:

  • Review - Triggering Fluidsynth with my Alesis Nitro Mesh MIDI in Linux
  • Review - Setting up Fluidsynth MIDI channels on phone

LinuxSampler videos

Making a rap beat with the linuxsampler!!

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to FluidSynth and LinuxSampler)
Email Marketing
44 44%
56% 56
Audio & Music
37 37%
63% 63
Work Management
48 48%
52% 52
Music
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, LinuxSampler seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 1 time since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

FluidSynth mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of FluidSynth yet. Tracking of FluidSynth recommendations started around Mar 2021.

LinuxSampler mentions (1)

  • Is there any way to get a piano sound as good as Ableton Grand Piano, on Linux?
    These can be loaded via linuxsampler, Carla, or Sfizz, all of which are FOSS plugins/programs capable of loading SFZ libraries. Source: over 3 years ago

What are some alternatives?

When comparing FluidSynth and LinuxSampler, you can also consider the following products

ZynAddSubFX - ZynAddSubFX is an open source software synthesizer for Linux, Mac OS X and Microsoft Windows.

Kontakt - With KONTAKT 6, you can sound like a snare drum, a symphony orchestra, or anything in between, from a universe of sampled instruments.

Surge XT - Open-source subtractive-hybrid synthesizer formerly sold commercially as Vember Audio Surge.

Pianoteq - Pianoteq is a virtual piano that runs on your computer.

Qsynth - Qsynth is a simple Qt4 application wrapper for the ...

Magix Independence Free - Magix Independence Free is a sampler software that allows you to create any type of sound with its 2Gb library.