# GCL1 vs NERD Synth A2x + AUv3

The clearest difference is review sentiment: NERD Synth A2x + AUv3 at 89% against GCL1's 0%. NERD Synth A2x + AUv3 also leads on rating (4.9 vs 4.0) and update cadence (fortnightly vs every 38 months). GCL1's advantage is price ($3.99 vs $5.99) and iOS requirement (12.0 vs 14.4). On ads, in-app purchases and monetization model there is nothing between them.

GCL1 costs $3.99 and NERD Synth A2x + AUv3 $5.99 up front. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.

NERD Synth A2x + AUv3 holds the better App Store score, 4.9 against 4.0. That said, the two scores are not equally well evidenced: NERD Synth A2x + AUv3 has 1.4K ratings behind it against 2, so its average is the more settled of the two. Written reviews point the same way: 0% of GCL1's written reviews are positive against 89% of NERD Synth A2x + AUv3's.

GCL1 ships an update every 38 months, NERD Synth A2x + AUv3 fortnightly. The most recent releases landed on October 9, 2026 and October 21, 2026 respectively.

## The numbers

| Metric | GCL1 | NERD Synth A2x + AUv3 |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | **$3.99** | $5.99 |
| Rating | [4.0 (2 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/gcl1/id6443425222/reviews) | **[4.9 (1.4K ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/nerd-synth-a2x-plus-auv3/id6478898564/reviews)** |
| Number of ratings | 2 | **1.4K** |
| Positive reviews | 0.0% of reviews | **89.0% of reviews** |
| In-app purchases | No | No |
| Ads | No | No |
| Update frequency | Every 38 months | **Fortnightly** |
| Monetization | Paid | Paid |
| Size | 5 MB | 242 MB |
| Requires iOS | **12.0** | 14.4 |
| Devices | iPad | **iPhone, iPad, iPod** |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | [Genuine Soundware](https://appshunter.io/developer/1560880481) | [AudioKit Pro](https://appshunter.io/developer/1307785645) |

## What reviewers say

### GCL1

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/gcl1/id6443425222)

This AUv3 plugin integrates a gate, compressor, and limiter into a single unit for audio processing. It offers precise control over dynamic range, noise reduction, and peak levels, mimicking a real hardware unit with clear displays.

**Highlights:** Gate for noise reduction, Compressor for dynamic response, Limiter to prevent clipping, AUv3 plugin compatibility, Realistic hardware interface, Precise VU meters

**Features:** macOS Compatibility

**In-app purchases:** none


### NERD Synth A2x + AUv3

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/nerd-synth-a2x-plus-auv3/id6478898564)

This virtual analog synthesizer offers a powerful and intuitive sound design experience, inspired by classic hardware. Explore over 40 classic waveforms, a versatile arpeggiator, step sequencer, and lush effects to craft unique electronic music.

**Highlights:** Virtual Analog Synthesizer, 40+ Classic Waveforms, Arpeggiator, Step Sequencer, Lush Effects Suite, Four-voice Unison, AUv3 Plugin Support

**Features:** Vision Pro support

**In-app purchases:** none

**What reviewers like**

- ⭐ Outstanding synth
- 👍 Very nice and rich sounding
- 🎨 Great presets and sound design
- 🔧 Easy to use and intuitive
- 💻 Works well in AUv3 environments

**What reviewers complain about**

- 🐛 Doesn't show up in Logic
- 🔧 Needs to be more Mac-compatible
- 🔧 Changing presets can be sluggish
- 🔧 Missing aftertouch/expression support

**Reported bugs**

- Doesn't fit properly in Logic Pro for iPad
- Keyboard keys get stuck when using a controller

**Requested features**

- Dark mode option
- Undo/redo functionality
- Improved Logic Pro integration
- Ability to change color scheme


## Frequently asked questions

### Is GCL1 free?

GCL1 costs $3.99, with no in-app purchases.

### Is NERD Synth A2x + AUv3 free?

NERD Synth A2x + AUv3 costs $5.99, with no in-app purchases.

### Which has better reviews, GCL1 or NERD Synth A2x + AUv3?

NERD Synth A2x + AUv3 is rated higher. GCL1 averages 4.0 out of 5 from 2 ratings, while NERD Synth A2x + AUv3 averages 4.9 from 1.4K ratings.

### Do GCL1 or NERD Synth A2x + AUv3 have ads?

Neither GCL1 nor NERD Synth A2x + AUv3 shows ads.

### Which is updated more often, GCL1 or NERD Synth A2x + AUv3?

GCL1 ships an update every 38 months, and NERD Synth A2x + AUv3 fortnightly. Most recently, GCL1 was updated on October 9, 2026 and NERD Synth A2x + AUv3 on October 21, 2026.

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*Compared by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/) from daily US App Store data. Review summaries are generated from verbatim App Store reviews.*