Best software synths right now?

[martinbaker2727]

What do you consider to be the best software synths of our time right now?

I use regularly:

-Alchemy
-Omnisphere 2
-NI Komplete 10 synths incl. Reaktor
-Reason's synths

I also quite like the demo of Parsec (as Reason Rack extension).

Just these already offer a huge palette. I have some extra stuff around like a Kyma system and stuff, but use them less often (maybe I should steer my focus).

But I cannot pinpoint a single synth that's "best", because they all offer different workflows and are better suited for different sound categories.

From what I have I would probably say Absynth 5 to be the best synth I currently own. Obviously it doesn't do all the things like e.g. the Kyma, but it gets more use than the Kyma right now, so that's why I think it's the best synth out of what I have

[Music Bird]

Synth1, Dexed, Apari Tenpan, PG8X, SQ8L, GTG/EFM/DSK/Krakli/B. Serrano/Full Bucket Music/Samsara Cycle Audio/etc.
Sometimes, the best things in life are free!

[martinbaker2727]

I also quite like the demo of Parsec

[Hardbass_44]

I was going to say that I liked Parsec's demo but that I found the thing expensive, but I went to check online and it's on sale for $60! I was using Dexed so far, but I might jump the gun and get Parsec with that discount.

[Zamise]

Xfer Serum

[Kentronix]

I have been getting into TALs free elek7ro VST synth recently, its deceptively powerful and routable and of course free.

https://tal-software.com/products/tal-elek7ro

[vladimotor]

U-he Zebra, Repro5, Bazille, Reaktor, FM8, Z3ta+, Serum.

[vijhoni62]

What's the best Orchestral software synthesizer to date?
I'm searching for a software orchestral synthesizer. I want it to be as realistic as possible. I have Edirol Orchestral, but i want it better. Can you suggest some software? Thanks!

[meatballfulton]

What's your budget for an orchestral synth? There are ones that cost thousands of dollars, marketed to composers who are doing movie soundtracks and such. Then there's stuff like IK's Miroslav Philharmonik and Garritan down at the low end.