Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Surge XT VS MathType

Compare Surge XT VS MathType and see what are their differences

Note: These products don't have any matching categories. If you think this is a mistake, please edit the details of one of the products and suggest appropriate categories.

Surge XT logo Surge XT

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

MathType logo MathType

The Professional version of Equation Editor- MathType is a powerful interactive tool for Windows and Macintosh that lets you create mathematical notation for word processing, web pages, desktop publishing, presentations, and for TeX, LaTeX, and Mathโ€ฆ
  • Surge XT Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-31

Surge XT is an open-source hybrid synthesizer and the synth which started the Surge Synth Team project!

  • MathType Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-10-16

Surge XT features and specs

  • Open Source
    Surge XT is open source, which means it is free to use and benefit from community-driven improvements and support.
  • Cross-Platform
    The synthesizer is available on multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, and Linux, providing flexibility in usage across different operating systems.
  • Versatile Synthesis Engine
    Surge XT supports a wide variety of synthesis techniques like subtractive, wavetable, and FM synthesis, making it very versatile for different sound design needs.
  • Extensive Modulation Options
    The synthesizer comes with a robust modulation matrix, giving users substantial control and creativity over sound modulation.
  • High-Quality Effects
    Includes numerous high-quality built-in effects such as reverb, delay, and distortion, enabling rich and complex sound designs.
  • User Community and Documentation
    Surge XT has active community support and comprehensive documentation, which can be extremely helpful for both beginners and advanced users.

Possible disadvantages of Surge XT

  • Learning Curve
    The plethora of features and extensive modulation options may present a steep learning curve for new users.
  • User Interface
    While functional, the user interface is considered less polished compared to some commercial synthesizers, which might affect the user experience.
  • CPU Usage
    The synth can be CPU-intensive, especially when using multiple instances or complex patches, which may affect performance on less powerful systems.
  • Limited Presets
    Although the software includes a range of presets, it may fall short compared to some commercial offerings with extensive preset libraries.
  • No Official Support
    Being an open-source project, there is no dedicated customer support, which might be an issue for users who need professional help on demand.

MathType features and specs

  • Ease of Use
    MathType provides a user-friendly interface with a GUI that makes it easy to create and edit complex mathematical equations and notations.
  • Compatibility
    The software is compatible with various word processing and presentation software, including Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and more, facilitating easy integration.
  • Customization
    Users can customize equations with different fonts, styles, and sizes, allowing for a more personalized and professional appearance.
  • Extensive Symbol Library
    MathType offers an extensive library of mathematical symbols and templates to cater to a wide range of disciplines and needs.
  • Export Options
    Equations can be exported in various formats, including MathML, TeX, and image formats, which enhances its versatility.

Possible disadvantages of MathType

  • Cost
    MathType is a paid software, and the cost may be a barrier for students or professionals with limited budgets.
  • Learning Curve
    Despite its user-friendly interface, beginners may require some time to fully understand and utilize all the features effectively.
  • Performance Issues
    Some users have reported performance issues, such as lag or crashes, when working with very complex equations or large documents.
  • Limited Mobile Support
    MathType's functionality on mobile devices is limited compared to its desktop version, which may be inconvenient for users who require mobile access.
  • Updates and Support
    Occasional updates and customer support responses can be slow, potentially delaying workflows and resolution of issues.

Analysis of Surge XT

Overall verdict

  • Yes, Surge XT is considered an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced producers due to its rich feature set, ease of use, and the fact that it is free.

Why this product is good

  • Surge XT is a highly acclaimed open-source software synthesizer known for its extensive features, versatility, and high-quality sound. It offers a broad range of synthesis techniques, a wide variety of presets, and modular modulation capabilities which provide creative flexibility for sound designers and musicians.

Recommended for

  • Music producers looking for a powerful and versatile synthesizer.
  • Sound designers who want to explore a wide range of sound creation possibilities.
  • Beginners seeking a cost-effective entry point into electronic music production.
  • Users who value open-source software with ongoing community support and development.

Analysis of MathType

Overall verdict

  • Overall, MathType is considered a strong choice for creating and editing mathematical equations. It is especially useful for professionals and students who need to work with advanced mathematical notations frequently. Its ease of use and broad compatibility make it a reliable choice.

Why this product is good

  • MathType is a popular mathematical notation software that integrates well with various word processors and web applications. It offers a user-friendly interface, supports a wide range of mathematical symbols, and is widely used in education and academia for creating complex equations and formulas. Its compatibility with multiple platforms and extensive features make it a valuable tool for anyone dealing with mathematical content.

Recommended for

  • Teachers and educators preparing math-related materials
  • Students studying mathematics or related fields
  • Researchers and professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
  • Anyone needing to include complex equations in documents or presentations

Surge XT videos

Free VST - Surge Synthesizer plugin

MathType videos

MathType (previously Wiris Editor) - Switching between classic input and handwriting

More videos:

  • Tutorial - Equation Editing software: How to use MathType Word plugin for Inserting & Editing Equations

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Surge XT and MathType)
Email Marketing
100 100%
0% 0
Small Business
0 0%
100% 100
Work Management
100 100%
0% 0
Accounting
0 0%
100% 100

User comments

Share your experience with using Surge XT and MathType. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
Log in or Post with

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Surge XT seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 179 times 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.

Surge XT mentions (179)

  • VST3 audio plugin format is now MIT
    - Surge XT - open-source synthesizer with literally 10k presets built in: https://surge-synthesizer.github.io/. - Source: Hacker News / 9 months ago
  • Ask HN: Comment here about whatever you're passionate about at the moment
    Good stuff! I started getting in to this at the start of the year. Already had an old, dusty MicroKORG and MIDI interface to use it as a controller, but recently splashed out on a bigger controller as the Korg's tiny keys were hurting me - plus, I wanted something bigger to get better at piano! A couple of free soft synths I'd recommend are Surge XT, and Vital. https://surge-synthesizer.github.io/... - Source: Hacker News / over 2 years ago
  • Obsolete (or not) DAW recommendations for windows 8?
    Https://surge-synthesizer.github.io/ and https://asb2m10.github.io/dexed/ should work like a charm. Source: about 3 years ago
  • Hi, I'm new
    To get the equivalent of a symphonic orchestra in your computer, the solution is basically money; you buy the instruments you need. In the case of synthesizers, things are much cheaper - if you put in the effort yourself. https://surge-synthesizer.github.io/ is excellent and could even be used if you wanted to make a more retro-style soundtrack. Source: about 3 years ago
  • So is serum worth the money? Can someone ELI5 why I should buy it rather than use a free synth like synth one?
    Instead of Synth1, try https://surge-synthesizer.github.io/ . It's pretty much better in every aspect except for the UI which is going to look a lot more daunting to you ;). Source: about 3 years ago
View more

MathType mentions (0)

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

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Surge XT and MathType, you can also consider the following products

Vital - Vital is a spectral warping wavetable synthesizer with drag'n'drop modulation workflow and animated preview of the synth's inner workings where needed. Comes with many modulation sources (including audio-rate), MPE support and FX chain.

Clipboard for Microsoft Outlook - Other Office

VCV Rack - A cross-platform modular synthesizer.

Online Check Writer - Online Check Writer is an all-in-one financial service provider with all kinds of payment options to pay and get paid.

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

Scribd - Unlimited books, audiobooks & comics. Unparalleled discovery. Any device. $8.99/month