Side by side
Helm vs Sonic Pi
Both stand on software synthesizers. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Open source LinuxMacWindows
Helm offers a broad set of synthesis and modulation tools in standalone and plugin forms, and is free software. Its beta status and outstanding bugs are worth considering.
Visit Helm Free plan LinuxMacWeb+1
Sonic Pi offers code-based music creation in a browser and an offline desktop app. Choose the desktop app if you need the listed low-latency audio interfaces, OSC, or Ableton Link.
Visit Sonic PiThe facts
| Helm | Sonic Pi | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Linux, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | tytel.org | sonic-pi.net |
| On software synthesizers | #3 of 38 | #7 of 38 |
Helm: what it does well
- Free software with no DRM.
- Standalone app and multiple plugin formats.
- Includes sequencer, arpeggiator, and audio effects.
- Available for Linux, macOS, and Windows.
- Users can study, change, and redistribute it.
What to know first
- The project is in beta.
- The project description notes outstanding bugs.
Sonic Pi: what it does well
- Free and open source.
- Browser version runs without installation.
- Desktop app works offline on three operating systems.
- Supports MIDI, OSC, and Ableton Link in the app.
What to know first
- Web version lacks low-latency interface audio.
- Web version does not support OSC or Ableton Link.
- Safari does not have MIDI input or output.
Alternatives to Helm Alternatives to Sonic Pi The whole list