Hive 2
Hive 2: Hive 2 combines three synth engines, deep modulation, MPE, and 2,420 factory presets. Ranked #4 of 38 in Software Synthesizers by our editors (8.7/10); pricing: Paid; best for preset-rich synthesis with Linux support.
At a glance
- Editor score8.7 / 10
- PricingPaid
- Best forPreset-rich synthesis with Linux support
- Free planNo
- Founded2001 · Berlin, Germany
- Facts checked19 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Three synth engines with 2D wavetable oscillators
- 12 x 2 modulation matrix, XY pads, and sequencers
- Windows, macOS, and Linux plug-in versions with MPE support
Where it doesn't
- Runs as a plug-in rather than a standalone application
- Linux builds have beta status and more limited support
- No free plan; it is available as a paid product
Our verdict on Hive 2
Hive 2 is a software synthesizer plug-in from u-he for musicians, composers, and producers working inside a host application. Its focus is broad electronic sound design, combining three synth engines, two oscillators with standard waveforms and 2D wavetables, modulation routing, performance controls, sequencing, effects, microtuning, and MPE support. The product includes 2,420 factory presets and supports Windows, macOS, and Linux in VST3, AU, AAX, and CLAP plug-in formats.
Its strongest case is feature depth paired with preset breadth. The 12 x 2 modulation matrix includes modulation modifiers, while four user-definable XY control pads provide an additional performance layer. An eight-step shape sequencer offers four independent outputs, and the arpeggiator and step sequencer support real-time recording. Seven rearrangeable effects, microtuning, and Oddsound MTS-ESP support extend its sound-design range. MPE support also suits compatible expressive controllers. For Native Instruments users, NKS compatibility with Maschine and Komplete Kontrol hardware adds ecosystem fit.
Hive 2 is a focused choice for producers who want a substantial synthesizer plug-in with extensive presets, modulation options, and broad operating-system coverage. Its host-dependent design makes it less suitable for musicians seeking a standalone instrument. Linux users should also weigh that u-he describes the Linux builds as beta versions with more limited support than the macOS and Windows versions. Choose Hive 2 when synth depth, preset variety, MPE, and Linux availability matter more than standalone operation or a free entry tier.
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Hive 2 pricing
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Hive 2 fact sheet
| Free plan | No |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Not verified |
| Synthesis engine | Not verified |
| Plugin formats | vst3, au, aax, clap |
| Standalone app | No |
| Supported platforms | Not verified |
| Included presets | 2420 presets |
| MPE support | Yes |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Integrations | 3 integrations: Native Instruments NKS, Maschine, Komplete Kontrol |
| Pricing | Paid (source) |
| Website | u-he.com |
| Facts checked | 19 Sep 2026 |
Hive 2 integrations
Hive 2 lists 3 integrations on its own site.
- Native Instruments NKS
- Maschine
- Komplete Kontrol
Alternatives to Hive 2
- Arturia V Collection 11A broad, preset-focused instrument collection with clear Intro and Pro options.9.3
- Kontakt 8A broad sample-library platform with serious synthesis and DAW integration.9.1
- DivaA deep analogue-style plug-in with broad modulation, effects and host-format support.8.8
Hive 2 vs the competition
- Hive 2 vs Arturia V Collection 11
- Hive 2 vs Kontakt 8
- Hive 2 vs Diva
- Hive 2 vs Repro
- Hive 2 vs VCV Rack
- Hive 2 vs Omnisphere
Compare Hive 2 with any tool side by side →
Also Ranked In
Hive 2 is ranked in 2 of our directories.
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Featured on iTechGuides
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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