TiloBox
Back to directory
Helm project preview
MediaAlternative to SerumAlternative to MassiveAlternative to Sylenth1

Helm

Free polyphonic synthesizer available as standalone, VST, VST3, AU, and LV2 plugin.

View on GitHub Visit website
LicenseGPL-3.0
GitHub stars3.5k
Last commit1 weeks ago
Tags6 topics
Polyphonic SynthVst SynthJuceMediaCppAudio Plugin
Overview

Why consider Helm?

Helm is a free polyphonic synth instrument created by Matt Tytel. Written in C++ with JUCE, it features 32-voice polyphony, cross-modulation, stutter effects, step sequencers, and an intuitive visual modulation interface.

Guided learning

Learn Helm by building

Practical setup notes, real use cases, and copy-ready examples in one focused guide.

1 min read 2 sections
In this guide2 sections

Overview of Helm

Helm features visual envelopes and LFOS that animate modulation paths in real-time as notes are played.

Installation

Download Helm standalone or VST/AU plugins from tytel.org/helm.

Helm is licensed under the GNU General Public License v3.0 (GPL-3.0).

Related tools

More options with a similar category or technology profile.

MyPaint logo

MyPaint

Nimble, distraction-free, and easy graphic application for digital painters.

Pencil2D logo

Pencil2D

Easy, intuitive traditional hand-drawn 2D animation software across raster and vector.

Hydrogen logo

Hydrogen

Advanced open-source drum machine and pattern-based step sequencer for audio production.

Pure Data logo

Pure Data

Open source visual programming language for multimedia, audio, and physical computing.

Helm FAQs

Helm is listed as a Media tool on TiloBox. Review the overview, features, and official documentation on this page to decide whether it solves your specific workflow.

Start with the project's GitHub repository and official website for supported installation and deployment instructions. Test the setup with representative data or a small project before rolling it out more widely.

Helm is listed under the GPL-3.0 license. Read the complete license text and the project's notices before using, modifying, or distributing the software.

Production readiness depends on your requirements. Review maintenance activity, security practices, documentation, backup and upgrade procedures, and compatibility with your stack; then validate it in a non-production environment.

Helm is listed as an alternative to Serum. Compare the core workflow, deployment model, integrations, and licensing against your must-have requirements before switching.