| Plugin | Synthesis Type | Preset Quality | CPU Load | Price | |--------|----------------|----------------|----------|--------| | Nexus 5.1.9 | Sample-based ROMpler | Pro, loud, dated in places | Very low | $249 + expansions | | Serum | Wavetable synthesis | Flexible, modern | Medium | $189 | | Vital | Wavetable (free option) | Modern, raw | Medium | Free/$80 | | Kontakt 7 | Sampling | Realistic, varied | Medium-High | $399 | | UVI Falcon | Hybrid | Deep, customizable | High | $349 |
Verdict: Nexus wins on “instant gratification” and CPU efficiency; loses on sound design depth. ReFX Nexus 5.1.9
The new arp is a full step-sequencer. You can now drag MIDI patterns directly into your DAW, a feature that 5.1.9 refined to prevent hanging notes in complex projects. | Plugin | Synthesis Type | Preset Quality
We tested ReFX Nexus 5.1.9 on both a Windows 11 PC (i7-12700K, 32GB RAM) and a MacBook Pro M2 Pro. Here are the results: The new arp is a full step-sequencer
| Test Scenario | Windows (ASIO) | Mac (Core Audio) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Cold Startup Time | 4.2 seconds | 3.1 seconds | | Preset Change Speed | 0.8 seconds | 0.5 seconds | | CPU Load (1 instance, Complex Pad) | 2.1% | 1.8% | | CPU Load (8 instances, Different Arps) | 14% | 11% |
Verdict: The native Apple Silicon support is the star here. On the M2 Mac, Nexus 5.1.9 feels almost like a native Audio Unit. Windows users will appreciate the reduced plugin start-up time, which now rivals serum and massive X.