Primer is a simple synth VST plugin built for learning. Designed for Syntorial (the award-winning synthesizer training app), it contains the most common controls found on most subtractive/analogue synths, allowing for a wide variety of patches and sounds, while presenting a simple and easy-to-understand interface and layout.
Primer is free and available for:
- Mac: VST and AU Plugin
- Windows: VST Plugin
- iPad: Standalone app and Audio Unit Extension
It’s also integrated directly into Syntorial allowing you to learn by doing, and take what you learn and easily transfer it to your DAW of choice.
Synth features:
- 400 factory presets
- Subtractive synthesis
- Three Oscillators (Two with Waveform, Pitch, Pulse Width, and Mix controls, and a Sub oscillator with Waveform and Volume controls)
- Saw, Pulse, Triangle and Sine waveforms
- FM knob
- Noise Oscillator
- Oscillator Sync
- Filter (Low, Band and High Pass) with Resonance and Key Tracking
- ADSR Filter Envelope
- ADSR Amp Envelope
- AD Modulation Envelope
- LFO with four waveforms, seven destinations, rate, amount, trigger, and mono/poly modes
- Mono, Legato and Poly Voice Modes
- Portamento
- Unison with Voice, Detune and Spread controls
- Ring Modulation
- Distortion, Chorus, Phaser, Delay, and Reverb effects
- Mod Wheel, Pitch Wheel and Velocity controls
- Visualizer: Watch the Envelope, Filter and LFOs operate in real time
- Randomizer: Choose from two different random patch generators for an endless supply of patches
Free Preset Packs for Primer
How To Use Primer
Featured On
KVR Audio One Synth Challenge #196 – Featuring Primer 2
In July 2025, Primer 2 was the featured instrument in KVR Audio’s One Synth Challenge #196 — a monthly music production contest where talented producers craft entire tracks using just one synth. With only Primer 2 and their creativity, participants pushed the boundaries of what this simple yet powerful synth can do.
From ambient soundscapes to full-on bangers, these tracks showcase the versatility of Primer 2 and the artistry of the producers behind them. Here are the top contenders & the full playlist of submissions — give them a listen and hear what Primer is capable of in the hands of the OSC community!