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Based on price data from 4 merchants for "u-he Hive 2". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Showing prices and availability for the newer version, u-he Hive 2.
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Description
Discover the u-he Hive Software Synthesizer, a versatile synth plugin designed to meet the needs of both aspiring and seasoned musicians. Known for its ultra-low CPU usage, Hive offers a smooth workflow without sacrificing performance, making it an ideal choice for those who want to create intricate soundscapes without straining their systems. With its intuitive interface, Hive allows you to easily navigate between different oscillators, filters, and modulation options, catering to both novices and experts alike.
Hive stands out with its dual multi-mode filter architecture, providing a wide range of sound design possibilities. The synth is also equipped with a variety of waveforms and modulation options, giving users the flexibility to craft sounds from lush pads to aggressive leads. The inclusion of an arpeggiator and sequencer further expands its creative potential, allowing for intricate patterns and rhythms. Whether you're producing electronic music or composing film scores, Hive's robust sound engine will inspire you to push the boundaries of your creativity.
Key Features:
- Ultra-low CPU usage for efficient performance
- Dual multi-mode filter architecture for versatile sound design
- Wide range of waveforms and modulation options
- Integrated arpeggiator and sequencer for complex patterns
- Intuitive interface for easy navigation and control
- Suitable for both beginners and experienced users
- Ideal for various music genres, from electronic to cinematic scores
Product specs
| Plugin Format | AU, VST |
Videos
Dash Glitch
u-He Hive 2 is INSANELY good! First look VST Plugin
u-He Hive 2 is INSANELY good! First look VST Plugin
Dash Glitch
![Video thumbnail for U-HE Hive 2 - Best presets [ most useful sounds ] by Pacific Base](https://img.youtube.com/vi/u7TSoUEjEos/mqdefault.jpg)
U-HE Hive 2 - Best presets [ most useful sounds ]
Pacific Base
MAKE THEM DANCE
u-he
A Deeper Dive into u-he Hive 2 - Tricks, Hidden Parameters, Easter Eggs & More
Dash Glitch
u-he Hive 2 Synth Beginners Guide
UDi Audio
U-he Synth Bundle - DIVA, Repro1, Hive 2, & Zebra for Limited Time
WaveBits
Reviews
PROS
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Delivers a punchy and fat sound that rivals top synths
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Simple, CPU-friendly design with modern sound versatility
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Efficient workflow and interface layout for easy navigation
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Offers a unique "rubbery and detailed" signature sound
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Integrates well with wavetables alongside traditional waveforms
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Provides a balance of digital and analog-like sounds
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Regular updates ensure ongoing improvements and features
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Excellent modulation capabilities expand creative possibilities
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Faster processing compared to similar synths like Sylenth1
CONS
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Limited waveform options might restrict some sound design potential
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Sound may feel harsher or less warm compared to others
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about u-he Hive Software Synthesizer.
Features and functionality
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Hive 2 is noted for its dual-axis wavetables, a feature not commonly found in other synths, allowing for unique sound modulation possibilities.
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The interface is praised for its intuitive design; users can create patches without menu diving, making it user-friendly for quick sound design.
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Despite its limitations, Hive 2 offers modern, crisp, digital tones, as well as lush vintage sounds through oscillator detuning and varied voices.
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The synth is highly CPU efficient, allowing for multiple voices of unison with negligible impact, making it ideal for complex compositions.
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The arpeggiator in Hive 2 is praised for allowing unique pattern lengths and octave automation, ideal for creating evolving harmonic content with semitone leaps.
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Hive 2's modulation options are extensive, with effects that enhance its modern yet analog-sounding capabilities, providing a versatile tool for subtractive synthesis learning.
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Mods and upgrades
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Users recommend trying free Izmo/Gizmo alternative skins for a more pleasant user experience, enhancing the interface visually.
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Comparisons
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Though Hive 2 has a distinct signature sound, some users prefer Synthmaster One for a wider sound palette and versatility in synthesis.
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Some users find Hive 2 less intuitive than Vital or Phaseplant, suggesting alternatives like Harmor or Phaseplant for more versatile synthesis capabilities.
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Hive 2 is noted for sounding better than Serum, with presets less oriented towards IDM, making it suitable for a broader range of musical styles.
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Use cases and applications
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Hive 2 can be effectively paired with synths like Diva or Pigments for a broader range of vintage and complex sound synthesis.
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Owners appreciate using Hive 2's presets as starting points, allowing for creative exploration and sound customization.
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Hive 2 is highly regarded for its ability to produce complex, evolving, and imperfect sounds, making it suitable for creating intricate soundscapes and textures.
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User experience
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Hive 2 may initially feel complex compared to Serum and Vital, but its sound quality and advanced features can grow on users over time.
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Many users find Hive 2's single-panel interface intuitive for experimenting with wavetables and complex modulations, making it a favorite for both beginners and experienced producers.
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Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 6 Reviews and 46 Ratings
183
The best darn soft-synth I've ever used!
The first soft-synth that I ever used was u-he Zebra2. It was wonderful and incredibly flexible with FM, Additive, Wavetable and a host of amazing features. It was almost like what NI Massive was TRYING to be and I loved it! unfortunately, after an entire YEAR, I had to face the facts that I just wasn't making tangible progress with it. In fact, I found myself disliking modular synths altogether.
I wanted something with the fat sound of u-he Diva but with Sylenth-simplicity that wouldn't leave me scratching my head. This is where u-he Hive comes in!
It's got an incredibly punchy and fat sound that exceeds Reveal Sound Spire, the new Xfer Serum or any synth that I dabbled with! and although it's limited by it's subtractive design and (as of this review) limited waveforms (saw, square, etc), it's a deeper synth than meets the eye and I adore it! :)
I'm grown to embrace that I'm more of a composer/arranger than a sound-designer. I simply don't want to spend too much time fiddling with osc's and filters when I could be writing notes and improving my productions. Hive goes up and beyond to deliver a next-gen analog-like sound in a simple CPU-friendly package. It's not as realistic as Diva, but it's got a modern sound and infinitely more versatile. I love it!
290
Great subtractive synth
Everyone says Sylenth1... I say 'yeah okay but also Hive!' That's not to say Sylenth1 doesn't deserve love. They are nearly identical in purpose and design but I still have a little more love for Hive I think. Hive has the ability to sound a little more digital and less warm--a bit harsher in places, which is awesome! The workflow and layout of the interface a little more efficient in Hive. People who have worked with Sylenth1 a lot probably wont notice this as much but I did. It's more modern in some cases, better effects and modulation tools. You can also count on UHE to keep the updates coming in a reasonable fashion.
456
Its okay
Decent plugin, haven't used it in 8 years from now though.
I need to load up my old plugins again.
Excellent subtractive synth
An incredibly versatile subtractive synthesis. You get all the usual waveforms (saw, sine etc) and with the update you get wavetables too. Unlike synths that try to mimic the specific circuitry of vintage hardware analogue synths, Hive is fairly easy on the CPU, but you can still get a host of amazing "analogue" sounds.
51
It's absolutely amazing.
The u-he HIVE is by far the best "plastic-style" synth I have. Faster than Sylenth1, sounds even better and has huge modulation capabilities.
Artist usage
Add artist
"Having a blast with U-HE's upcoming synth, Hive. Time for Sylenth to move over, me thinks!"
In a Facebook photo, Maddix is seen with the u-he Hive Software Synthesizer displayed in the background, indicating its use in his setup.
noticed it in the linked video at 5:21
Tom Cosm is shown using the u-he Hive Software Synthesizer in a photo he posted on his Facebook page.
Album Usage
The u-he Hive Software Synthesizer has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use u-he Hive Software Synthesizer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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Community setups
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