Side by side
Spire vs Thorn
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 trial MacWindows
Spire offers a paid synthesizer with a broad listed format range, two desktop platforms, and a substantial included sound collection. Check the operating-system requirement, demo limitation, and one-time price before buying.
Visit Spire Free trial MacWindows
Thorn offers spectral synthesis, modulation, effects, and sequencing as a plugin instrument. Check host compatibility and operating-system requirements before using the 14-day trial.
Visit ThornThe facts
| Spire | Thorn | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | A free trial | A free trial |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Mac, Windows | Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Spire Only: $189, paid once | Not published |
| Plans published | 2 | None |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | reveal-sound.com | dmitrysches.com |
| On software synthesizers | #20 of 38 | #24 of 38 |
Spire: what it does well
- Available for macOS and Windows
- Fully functional demo available
- Includes 1000+ factory sounds
- Supports AU, AAX, CLAP, VST2/VST3
- Manual and Knowledge Base provided
What to know first
- No free plan
- Starting price is $189 one-time
- Demo adds noise every 30 seconds
- macOS requires version 10.15 or later
Thorn: what it does well
- Three spectral oscillators with harmonic shaping
- Editable, morphable 16-frame spectrum tables
- MIDI-output 16-step arpeggiator
- Nine effects and multiple modulation sources
- More than 600 presets listed
What to know first
- No standalone app
- Requires compatible VST, AU, or AAX host
- 64-bit only; 32-bit support was dropped
- Upgrade listed at $19 USD for earlier licenses