Show HN: I built a synthesizer based on 3D physics

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Overall reception

  • Strongly positive reaction; many call it the most original / coolest synth they’ve seen and praise the 3D physical approach.
  • Several non-musicians say they want to play with it just for fun.
  • Some users buy the beta after trying the demo specifically to support the project.

GPU physics & determinism

  • Simulation is deterministic on a given machine, but floating‑point differences across GPUs cause small result variations.
  • Engine is fully GPU-based; batching work per audio buffer is central to keeping up with the audio thread.
  • Developer emphasizes heavy low-level optimization and notes that GPU APIs weren’t designed for ultra‑low‑latency audio.

Performance, latency, and hardware

  • Works on modest integrated GPUs (e.g., Intel Iris), but complex presets can become too heavy.
  • Recommended buffer sizes are relatively high (512+), especially on macOS, due to GPU scheduling latency.
  • Some users hit 100% CPU / glitches on Apple Silicon with low buffer sizes; reducing polyphony or increasing buffer helps.
  • macOS GPU clock-scaling heuristics are described as a major bottleneck; the developer is seeking contact with Apple engineers.

Sound, synthesis behavior, and quality issues

  • Some hear clicks/aliasing in videos; this is attributed to screen recording / GPU contention, not the synth engine itself.
  • Discussion that even simple mass–spring networks become non-linear in 2D/3D and can generate rich harmonic spectra.
  • Comparisons made to existing physical modeling synths; some listeners initially find timbres similar, others are impressed by depth.

Workflow, usability, and UI (2D vs 3D)

  • 3D visuals are widely praised as distinctive and intuitive, while several argue 2D might be easier to use and more computationally efficient.
  • Concern that the instrument looks daunting; some musicians want more “always in tune / playable” modes and preset tours.
  • Suggestions for master volume, improved onboarding, and clear “why this matters for musicians” messaging.

Platforms, formats, and integrations

  • Built with JUCE; VST/desktop focus for now. Linux and CLAP are desired but lower priority; external CLAP extension is mentioned.
  • iPad and VR/AR are popular feature requests, with debate over market size.
  • Intel Macs are not supported; some debate whether older hardware could cope.

Marketing, demos, and pricing

  • Multiple users criticize the landing page for lacking immediate audio clips; want short, inline audio/video examples per screenshot.
  • Price ($70 for a beta) is perceived by at least one target user as high but possibly justified by uniqueness and perpetual licensing.
  • Perpetual licensing and no‑email demo download receive explicit appreciation.