Comparison

Poly 2 vs VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

Poly 2

This app generates evolving musical patterns and melodies using polyrhythms. It offers extensive sound manipulation with a sampler, multiple effects, and the ability to store numerous configurations. Users can also import their own sounds and integrate with other music production tools.

Highlights
  • Generative polyrhythm sequencing
  • Up to 8 simultaneous sounds
  • Sampler with envelopes and filters
  • Randomize capabilities
  • Built-in delay, reverb, distortion, and EQ FX
  • AUv3, Audiobus, and IAA support
  • Import custom samples
Features
Read full description

Poly 2 is a generative sequencer that creates evolving patterns and melodies based on the power of polyrhythms. Check out the promo video: https://youtu.be/ovCXtBynEkw Features: - Up to 8 different sounds at any time - Store up to 16 different configurations for each project - A sampler that includes envelopes, filters, loop crossfading, an LFO and more - Randomise capabilities - Delay, reverb, distortion and EQ FX - Over 100 samples included for free - 13 premade collections of sounds - 13 example projects - AUv3 support, both MIDI and Audio - Audiobus and IAA - Ableton Link - MIDI notes in / out, MIDI CC in / out and MIDI clock in - Import your own samples via iOS Files or WIFI transfer

About

VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave

This app creates unique synth sounds by recording classic synths to VHS tape and then resampling them. It offers a vast library of presets and effects to achieve lo-fi, retro vibes for various music genres. An AUv3 plugin and standalone app are included.

Highlights
  • VHS-recorded and resampled synths
  • Over 280+ presets
  • Standalone app and AUv3 plugin
  • VCR sound effects
  • VCR FX section for customization
  • Free expansion pack included
Features
Read full description

VHS Synth features synths recorded with a VCR, then resampled. Perfect for Synthwave, Hip Hop, Indie, Rock, Movie Soundtracks, Lo-Fi, Ambient, Vaporwave, Retro Pop, and more. Create instant lo-fi and cool retro vibes. Press a key. Elevate your music. Includes over 280+ Presets by Jakob haQ, Red Sky Lullaby, The GarageBand Guide, DJ Puzzle, Sound of Izrael, DJ Montra, Marc Hupkens, AnalogMatthew, JEC, Da Fingaz, Brian Funk, and more. "BEST Lo-Fi instrument I’ve ever played, seriously good sounds!" - The SoundTest Room "VHS Synth is a Retrowave dream!" - iPad Loops "Turns Your iOS Device Into An 80s Time Machine" - Synthtopia Classic Synths were recorded to VHS Tape with a VCR, then re-sampled. "VHS Synth is the ULTIMATE Retro Synth App" - The GarageBand Guide FEATURES: • Standalone app + iOS AUv3 Plugin • Over 280+ presets to inspire you • Compressed to under 140mb to save space • VCR Sound Effects (Buttons, Tape Hiss, More) • VCR FX section to customize the sounds • FREE Expansion Pack: OP-1 recorded with a VCR ++ iPhone & iPad version included for one low price Real analog feel and dirt. Vintage hardware was recorded into a VCR and then re-sampled. Subscribe to access to premium app features; subscription details are the following: - Length: weekly or yearly - Free trial: only on selected subscriptions - Your payment will be charged to your iTunes Account as soon as you confirm your purchase - You can manage your subscriptions and turn off auto-renewal from your Account Settings after the purchase - Your subscription will renew automatically, unless you turn off auto-renew at least 24 hours before the end of the current period - The cost of renewal will be charged to your account in the 24 hours prior to the end of the current period - When canceling a subscription, your subscription will stay active until the end of the period. Auto-renewal will be disabled, but the current subscription will not be refunded - Any unused portion of a free trial period, if offered, will be forfeited when purchasing a subscription Terms & Conditions: [https://magic-cake-e95.notion.site/VHS-Synth-80s-Synthwave-Terms-Conditions-150cf6557a0880aca270f4f8ccee8d3e?pvs=4](https://www.notion.so/VHS-Synth-80s-Synthwave-Terms-Conditions-150cf6557a0880aca270f4f8ccee8d3e?pvs=21) Privacy Policy: [https://magic-cake-e95.notion.site/VHS-Synth-80s-Synthwave-Privacy-Policy-150cf6557a088019bec6ccb33ae5bb09?pvs=4](https://www.notion.so/VHS-Synth-80s-Synthwave-Privacy-Policy-150cf6557a088019bec6ccb33ae5bb09?pvs=21) * NOTE: This app has no official affiliation with AudioKit Pro, LLC. It was built using the free AudioKit source code.

Screenshots

Poly 24 screens
VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is rating: Poly 2 at 4.8 against VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave's 4.0. Poly 2 also leads on monetization model (free with in-app purchases vs subscription) and ads (none vs shown). VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave's advantage is iOS requirement (14.5 vs 16.6). On price, update cadence, in-app purchases and device support there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Both are free to download. Poly 2 sells 1 one-off in-app purchase and VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave sells 4 in-app purchases, starting at $4.99 per 7 days. Whichever you choose, the download price is not the number that matters.

ReceptionRating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings

Poly 2 holds the better App Store score, 4.8 against 4.0. That said, the two scores are not equally well evidenced: Poly 2 has 686 ratings behind it against 132, so its average is the more settled of the two. Written reviews point the same way: 84% of Poly 2's written reviews are positive against 51% of VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave's.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

Poly 2 ships an update every 4 weeks, VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave every 2 weeks. The most recent releases landed on October 8, 2026 and October 7, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard6 real differences · 4 level
Poly 2 versus VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterPoly 2VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave
PriceFreeFree
Rating4.8 (686 ratings) — better4.0 (132 ratings)
Positive reviews84.1% of reviews — better51.1% of reviews
Number of ratings686 — better132
Update frequencyEvery 4 weeksEvery 2 weeks — better
AdsNo — betterYes
In-app purchasesYesYes
MonetizationFree with in-app purchases — betterSubscription
DevicesiPhone, iPadiPhone, iPad, iPod — better
Requires iOS16.614.5 — better
Further details — not scored
Size153 MB167 MB
Age rating4+4+
DeveloperJames MiltonAudiobus Pty Ltd

Customer experience

Poly 2

All ratings686 ratings
Positive95.0%
Neutral2.6%
Negative2.3%
Written reviews63 reviews
Positive84.1%
Neutral4.8%
Negative11.1%

VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave

All ratings132 ratings
Positive72.7%
Neutral5.3%
Negative22.0%
Written reviews88 reviews
Positive51.1%
Neutral11.4%
Negative37.5%

User reviews

Poly 2

From 686 App Store ratings

What we love

  • 🚀 Unique, creative, and powerful tool
  • 👍 Intuitive and user-friendly interface
  • 🎨 Excellent for ambient, experimental, and generative music
  • 🎹 Great for drum grooves and rhythmic patterns
  • 💻 Seamless integration with external hardware and software

Room to improve

  • 🐛 Occasional crashes and bugs
  • 🔇 Lack of sustain/voice ring-out when transport is stopped
  • 📺 Small interface elements can be difficult to use on iPad
  • 🔌 Compatibility issues with some third-party apps

VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave

From 132 App Store ratings

What we love

  • 🎵 Excellent lo-fi and retro 80s sound quality
  • 🎹 Extensive library of high-quality presets
  • 💰 Affordable pricing (at original purchase)
  • 🎨 Intuitive and clean interface design
  • 🔊 Versatile sounds for multiple genres

Room to improve

  • 💸 Aggressive subscription model for previously purchased app
  • 🔄 Conversion from AudioKit broke existing projects
  • 📊 User data tracking added without clear benefit
  • 🚫 Removed access to previously purchased presets/banks
  • 😠 Lack of developer communication about changes

Bugs and requests

Poly 2

Reported bugs

3 issues
  • In-app purchase not working for some users
  • MIDI connectivity issues with certain apps
  • Crashes upon opening for some users

Requested features

8 requests
  • Ability to preview samples before importing
  • Autoslice/autochop functionality for samples
  • Support for larger sample imports and automatic slot filling
  • Granulizer effect
  • Note repeat and vinyl effects
Show 3 more
  • More built-in effects and processing options
  • Ability to create and arrange full songs
  • M1 Mac compatibility

VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave

Reported bugs

11 issues
  • GarageBand compatibility broken after updates
  • App not recognized in Logic Pro after updates
  • Inconsistent sound quality across different registers
  • Patch/preset settings not retained after closing DAW
  • Audio Unit Extension crashes in GarageBand
Show 6 more
  • Duplicate track sounds different from original
  • Display shows 'Welcome' instead of loaded patch
  • Thin black keys difficult to hit on keyboard
  • Missing top C key on keyboard
  • Sounds inconsistent when exported from GarageBand
  • App disappears from projects after ownership change

Requested features

7 requests
  • Mac OS version for DAW compatibility
  • Velocity sensitivity settings for keyboard
  • Pitch bend and modulation wheels with actual functionality
  • Better keyboard design with proper key sizing
  • Improved UI layout to reduce wasted space in AUv3 mode
Show 2 more
  • Access to original synth parameters instead of sample-based playback
  • Direct routing to IAA output for FL Studio Mobile

In-app purchases

1 purchases

Poly 2

One-time1
  • Pro mode$11.99
4 purchases

VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave

Subscriptions4
  • Weekly premium7 Days trial$4.997 Days
  • Weekly premium$4.997 Days
  • Yearly premium$9.991 Year
Show 1 more
  • Yearly premium7 Days trial$9.991 Year

Questions

Is Poly 2 free?
Poly 2 is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Is VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave free?
VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Which has better reviews, Poly 2 or VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave?
Poly 2 is rated higher. Poly 2 averages 4.8 out of 5 from 686 ratings, while VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave averages 4.0 from 132 ratings.
Do Poly 2 or VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave have ads?
VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave shows ads; Poly 2 does not.
Which is updated more often, Poly 2 or VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave?
Poly 2 ships an update every 4 weeks, and VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave every 2 weeks. Most recently, Poly 2 was updated on October 8, 2026 and VHS Synth | 80s Synthwave on October 7, 2026.

Other comparisons