Checked September 2026
u-he
Hive 2 review
Synths
Streamlined, low-CPU synth with 2 oscillators, 140 wavetables, and a 12x2 mod matrix. Best for fast, workflow-focused sound design with low CPU overhead. Price: €149 one-time.
Key features
- 2 oscillators with 9 waveforms plus 140 wavetables
- Up to 16x unison per oscillator
- 12x2 modulation matrix with modifiers
- Shape sequencer with 4 independent outputs
- 2,400+ NKS-ready factory presets
Pros
- Cross-platform including native Linux support
- A demo version is available for macOS, Windows, and Linux before buying
Cons
- The demo emits crackling sound at irregular intervals until licensed
Hive 2 alternatives
Free spectral warping wavetable synth, the best-known free Serum alternative.
VST3supportedAUsupportedAAXnot supportedCLAPsupportedWINsupportedMACsupportedLNXsupportedFree, open-source hybrid synthesizer with extensive filters and a flexible modulation engine.
VST3supportedAUsupportedAAXnot supportedCLAPsupportedWINsupportedMACsupportedLNXsupported- FREE
Digital Suburban
Dexed
Free, open-source FM synthesizer plugin modeled closely on the Yamaha DX7.
VST3not supportedAUsupportedAAXnot supportedCLAPnot supportedWINsupportedMACsupportedLNXsupported
Sources: u-he.com