STK (Synthesis ToolKit)
C++ class library of synthesis and DSP building blocks (oscillators, filters, physical models).
| Language | C++ |
|---|---|
| Category | Synthesis & DSP |
| License | MIT |
| Platforms | macOS Windows Linux |
| Install | Build from source; brew install stk |
| First released | ~1996 |
| Maintained | Yes |
| Links | Website · Source |
Strengths
- Clean C++ classes for oscillators, filters, physical modeling
- Permissive MIT-style license, easy to embed
- Cross-platform real-time and non-real-time
Limitations
- A library, not a standalone language/environment
- Low recent activity; last release 2023
Best for
Embedding synthesis/DSP primitives and physical models into C++ apps.
Minimal example
#include "SineWave.h"
stk::SineWave sine;
sine.setFrequency(440.0);
stk::StkFloat s = sine.tick();Alternatives to STK (Synthesis ToolKit)
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