If you want to expand the capabilities of your Apple DAW, this post will be a good read for you. You will explore the Top 12 Plugins For Logic Pro X 2023, including instruments and effects.
Logic Pro is one of the most popular DAWs. Many professionals love this program because of its intuitive UI, built-in plugins, and virtual instruments. But what if you want to try third-party software to discover a new inspiration? In that case, this article is for you.
The items we will present to you below are somewhat geared toward EDM producers. But even if you’re not in that category, feel free to slide on down. We’re sure there will definitely be a lot of interesting stuff there for you, if you’re into live music production.
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Top 12 Plugins For Logic Pro X 2023 (Instruments & Effects)
1. Stepic By Devicemeister
Stepic by Devicemeister is a sixteen-step sequencer and modulator that can greatly enhance your Logic Pro workflow and improve your productions, especially as an electronic music producer.
With its extensive randomization options and advanced modulation capabilities, Stepic outshines the integrated sequencers that ship with Logic Pro. Additionally, Stepic is provided as a MIDI FX Audio Unit, allowing seamless integration into your Logic Pro projects. Its powerful MIDI export feature enables you to quickly export Stepic’s MIDI sequences to any track in Logic.
For those seeking a top-tier sequencer plugin that elevates their Logic Pro experience, Stepic is the unrivaled choice.
Key Features:
- MIDI FX Audio Unit compatibility
StepicVST is designed to work seamlessly with Logic Pro as a MIDI FX Audio Unit, making it easy to integrate into your workflow. This compatibility ensures that you can quickly load StepicVST into Logic Pro and use it to create intricate sequences and modulations. - Native support for Apple Silicon (M1/M2)
Stepic’s native support for Apple Silicon ensures seamless compatibility and optimal efficiency for Logic Pro users on Apple’s newest hardware platform. Experience faster load times, improved performance, and enhanced stability, making Stepic the ideal choice for music producers who demand the best in speed and reliability. - Advanced sequencing and modulation options
The plugin offers a wealth of randomization and modulation options far more advanced than the integrated sequencers with Logic Pro. With over 250 randomization options and eight Modulation Sequencers, StepicVST provides the tools to create unique sonic scapes that greatly enhance your Logic Pro projects. - Powerful MIDI export
With its powerful MIDI export feature, you can quickly export all of Stepic’s MIDI data to any track in Logic Pro. This capability enables you to easily transfer your sequences and modulations from StepicVST to other tracks and instruments within Logic Pro, streamlining your workflow and making it more efficient. - Versatility and compatibility
As previously mentioned, StepicVST’s compatibility with software plugins and hardware equipment, combined with its support for MIDI CC, makes it a highly versatile sequencer plugin. This broad compatibility ensures you can use StepicVST with various synthesizers, instruments, and effects within Logic Pro, making it an invaluable tool for your projects.
Compatibility:
Stepic’s compatibility with Logic Pro stems from its availability as a MIDI FX Audio Unit plugin designed to integrate with Apple’s popular DAW. This format allows you to load Stepic directly into Logic Pro’s MIDI FX slot, ensuring a seamless workflow when working on music projects.
As a result, Stepic can be effortlessly used alongside other native and third-party instruments and effects within Logic Pro, providing you with a powerful and versatile sequencer to enhance your creative process. Its compatibility with macOS 10.14 and later and native support for Apple’s new Silicon platform ensures that Stepic works smoothly with current and future versions of Logic Pro, making it a valuable addition to any Logic Pro user’s toolkit.
Summary:
In summary, StepicVST’s seamless integration with Logic Pro as a MIDI FX Audio Unit, advanced sequencing and modulation options, powerful MIDI export feature, user-friendly interface, and broad compatibility make it a great Logic Pro plugin. These features enable Logic Pro users to unlock new creative possibilities and enhance their music production experience.
2. Waves CR8 Creative Sampler
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
The Waves CR8 is a very powerful sampler that will free your creativity.
It’s no secret that Logic Pro comes with a built-in library of loops and samples and also has its sampler. But what if you want to try something new? In addition, something else will open up tremendous creative possibilities for you. In that case, you might want to look at the Waves CR8 Creative Sampler.
This plugin is fairly new since it came out in 2022. In it, you can turn any sound into a sample and a synth. The number of settings here is incredible. Besides that, you also get to use COSMOS, which is a finder with more than 2500 samples from Waves. Let’s try to understand it all in more detail.
Key Features:
- COSMOS Sample Finger
COSMOS is a separate finder based on AI technology. You can open its window by clicking on the blue magnifying glass in the left corner of the plugin. All samples here have meta-data, so it will be easy for you to find the sound you want. For example, if you enter “drums,“ you will see additional tags “full kit,” “dry” and more. - Customize The Sample As You Like
When you load a sample into CR8, you will see it displayed as a waveform. Here you can change the beginning and end and tune the pitch, speed, width, pan, and volume. You will also be able to change the gain, root, and BPM. - Filter & ADSR Sections
The plugin has two sections that further help you influence the sample’s sound. For example, you can use the Filter section to adjust Cutoff, Resonance, and Drive. There is also a separate line of settings for Attack, Decay, Sustain, and Release. - Unison Feature
What is noteworthy is that you will also have a separate Unison feature. This button is located at the top of the plugin window. Clicking on it will give you a chorus effect and a more spatial and wide sound. - Add Sample Layers
The cool thing is that the plugin will give you the ability to add whole layers of samples. Furthermore, you will be able to set the settings for them individually. There is also an involuntary Mixer section where you can adjust their levels, panning, and more. - Use The Modulation
You will also have a whole Modulation section in your arsenal, which will help you get new creative solutions. Here you can use LFO, Sequencer, and Trigger and bind them to any plugin parameters.
Compatibility:
Waves CR8 is available for Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.15.7 or higher. It comes in VST/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
The CR8 is a powerful and brand-new sampler from Waves that will give you many creative possibilities. This plugin comes with over 2500 samples and a special finder called COSMOS. As for the settings, you can sharpen the sound the way you want, turning a simple sample into a lush and atmospheric synth.
Related Reading:
Top 6 Sampler VST Plugins (And 3 Best FREE Plugins)
3. Tracktion Novum By Dawesome
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Tracktion Novum by Dawesome is a granular synth that will provide you with sounds you haven’t heard before.
The next item on our list will be of particular interest to sound designers. It is a fairly new granular synth with which you can create a unique sound. Yes, this software looks a bit complicated, but once you understand the functionality, you won’t want to use anything else.
The main factor in how the Novum plugin works is that it divides the sound into entire spectral portions. You can play them all together or tune the individual parts differently. Plus, there is plenty of factory presets that will blow your mind.
Key Features:
- 6 Granular Layers
As soon as you load your sample into Novum, you will see how the plugin has divided it into six spectral layers. They will be displayed in different colors. In general, you’ll be able to turn individual layers off and customize the details of their sound. - Plenty Of Presets
The presets in this plugin are somewhat different from what you are used to understanding them. It can dramatically change the sound of your sample. You will see the entire list on the left side of the window. For example, load a drum sample here and apply a flute preset. The result will be a flute sound in the rhythm of the drums. - Customizable Envelopes
You can customize everything in this plugin, and envelope is no exception. Just go to the ENV section and set the necessary parameters. Or you can draw your envelope in a few seconds with the cursor. Finally, if you don’t like it, press the ORG button, and the plugin will return the original sound. - Add Your Modulation
Modulation with unlimited possibilities is another feature this plugin provides. Your modulation parameters will be located to the right. Just click the plus button and add the desired parameter. For example, ADSR, LFO, Random, Steps, CC, Modwheel, Pressure, Slide, and more. - Synthify Feature
Synthify is probably one of the craziest parts of this plugin. This feature helps you turn any sound into a synth. Behind it are mathematical algorithms. In simple terms, the sound gets wider with the addition of some distortion.
Compatibility:
Tracktion Novum By Dawesome is available for Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.13 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST3 and AU formats.
Summary:
Novum by Dawesome is a rather complex plugin that uses mathematical algorithms in its work. But it’s perfect for you if you’re the kind of explorer who likes to explore new sounds. You can adjust almost any parameters and get new, unheard-before sounds. Overall, the plugin will be a powerful tool to work with if you are a sound designer.
Related Reading:
Top 11 Granular Plugins For Future Sound Design
4. ADSR Sample Manager (FREE)
ADSR’s Sample Manager helps you organize all your samples in one place and use them easily.
If you don’t like the loops and samples finder that comes with Logic, you can try something else. And the good news is that you don’t have to pay for it. Instead, it’s a free plugin from ADSR called self-explanatory – Sample Manager.
This software will help you easily glide through all your samples and pick the ones you need. Everything will be structured by tags, types, and BPM. In addition, you can synchronize the plugin with your DAW, namely with the tempo settings of your project.
Key Features:
- It Will Analyze Your Samples
Just enter the path to the library with your samples, and the plugin will analyze them by itself. For example, it counts metadata, i.e., tags and stuff like that. As a result, a structured list of samples and loops appears on the left side of the window. - Search For Samples With Ease
You will see a search bar at the top, so you can easily search for the samples you want. Type in the genres and tags, and the plugin will show you the appropriate options. You’ll also see icons for loops and samples and BPM information. - Sample Preview
When you find the right sample, you can listen to it right away. The waveform and tags will be displayed at the bottom. By the way, here, you can also set the sample’s starting point or adjust the Gain, High-Pass, and Low-Pass filters. - DAW Sync
What if the loop’s tempo doesn’t match the BPM that is set in your project? In this case, you can use the DAW Sync function, and the plugin will adjust the loop to the desired tempo. By the way, the same applies to the key.
Compatibility:
ADSR Sample Manager is available for Windows 7 or higher (both 32 and 64-bit) and macOS 10.9 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST, AU, AAX formats or as a Standalone host.
Summary:
ADSR’s Sample Manager is a wonderful free plugin that helps you organize your samples so you can find them for projects faster. The software itself analyzes the material and the tags it has. As a result, you must enter keywords and select the samples or loops you want. Remarkably, you will also be able to synchronize them with the tempo and key set in your DAW.
Related Reading:
Top 17 Utility VST Plugins For Your Projects
5. Native Instruments Kontakt 7
KONTAKT 7 is the latest version of the popular sampler, and it includes a reworked HiDPI Factory library and new instruments from companies like Orchestral Tools.
KONTAKT is the best instrument-building tool on the market, and it also serves as a source of quick musical inspiration for composers. This mutating platform is much more than a sampler; it has fueled two decades’ worth of Oscar-winning film scores, Billboard singles, and hundreds of instruments.
We’re taking KONTAKT’s 20-year history into the future with the seventh iteration. First, the new adjustable browser makes it simple to locate any sound. Then, you can experiment with new musical ideas and find new inspiration using the updated Factory Library, new effects, and other audio enhancements.
Key Features:
- Effects
The numerous effects modules in KONTAKT are detailed here, along with information on adjusting their settings. Audio processors that alter the signal in a typically non-linear fashion, such as reverberation, fingering, and distortion, fall under the category of “effects.” Open the drop-down menu of available effects by clicking the plus sign in the lower right corner of each effects slot to access these modules. - New Sound Quality
In KONTAKT 7, the Factory Library has been updated to raise the bar in terms of both sound quality and quantity, and it also brings our flagship sampler up to date with modern features like large, attractive, HiDPI user interfaces. In addition, learn to play and modify an extensive library of acoustic and electronic instruments, including Orchestral Tools’ brand-new collection of sampled, full-orchestra soundscapes. - Faster Interface
It can be difficult to maintain momentum if you’re constantly on the lookout for your preferred tunes. So to make things clear, we’re introducing a brand-new way to search through them. You can now import your independent libraries and homemade instruments and search, filter, and individual audition sound across your collection. - Build Instruments
KONTAKT 7 also comes with brand new libraries like Orchestral, Acoustic, Band, Beats, Choir, Synths and Vintage. It also includes existing Kontakt libraries Ethereal Earth, Hybrid Keys, Analog Dreams and Retro Machines MK2. - Hardware
Load KONTAKT into KOMPLETE KONTROL or MASCHINE to manipulate key settings with specialized knobs, listen to sound libraries, and more. S-Series keyboards have an even tighter integration because all the key switches and zones are conveniently located on the Light Guide.
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.10 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 10 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST/RTAS/AU/AAX formats and supports 32 and 64 bit systems.
Summary:
The music industry is reacting positively to this upgrade. This software improves complexity, efficiency, and audio reproduction every day. Developers have provided us with a rich palette of virtual instruments thanks to their work, and this upgrade will undoubtedly aid in the progress of that effort.
Related Reading:
Is NI Kontakt 6 Sampler Worth It? (In-Depth Review)
6. Air Music Technology HYPE
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Air Music Technology’s HYPE plugin is a synthesizer that comes in handy for any modern music.
If you’re a fan of synthetic sound, the next plugin on our list will appeal to you. It is a hybrid synthesizer that will provide both a classical and a sound beyond imaginable.
As for the interface, it may seem a bit complicated at first. You will need to tweak parameters and presets to understand how everything works. One of the main controls is the six geometric figures. Each of them will be responsible for a specific parameter.
In addition, the plugin has a very large number of presets. You will find various instruments, ranging from vintage to modern. There are over 1,500 of them, and you can modify them as you wish. Let’s dive in to see how it all works.
Key Features:
- 6 Geometric Regulators
Thanks to the six geometric shapes, you can change the sound parameters. For example, the two circles on the left will be responsible for mixing the two oscillators. However, the parameters of the other shapes will vary depending on the selected preset. - 1500 Presets
The number of presets here is mind-boggling – it’s 1,500. All of them are divided into categories. For example, you’ll find different kinds of basses, choirs, pads, organs, pianos, synthesizers, and more. Just slide through the presets and choose what you want. - Big FX Section
Of course, the developers of this tool did not leave you without the effects section. You’ll find it at the bottom of the plugin window. In particular, you can influence Rate, Depth, Mix, and Distortion here. In addition, there are also EQ, Delay, Reverb, Compressor, Pumper, and Limiter. - More Standard Synth Settings
If you look in the center of the plugin, you will see more standard synthesizer settings. For example, there are LFO controls and an Envelope filter. In addition, you can affect the Envelope Amp with the Spike, Decay, Fade, and Vel parameters.
Compatibility:
Air Music Technology HYPE is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.10 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Air Music Technology’s HYPE plugin is a hybrid synthesizer with many presets. As a result, you can pick up almost any sound that suits many genres of music. And, of course, you’ll have plenty of settings to customize the sound to your creative needs.
Related Reading:
Top 13 Synth VST Plugins (And 5 FREE Synths Plugins)
7. Spitfire Audio – Abbey Road One Orchestral Foundations
Abbey Road One from Spitfire Audio is a sample library with a touch of magic perfect for film scoring.
Of course, Logic Pro has built-in orchestral instruments, and they’re great. But what if you want something extra special? In that case, we’ve got the next item on our list for you – this wonderful Abbey Road One Orchestral Foundations sample library from Spitfire Audio.
The fact is that the samples of this library were recorded at Abbey Road’s Studio One. This room is known for creating music for many films that have gone down in cinema history worldwide. Therefore, the sound of this virtual instrument will not leave you indifferent.
Key Features:
- Full Orchestra Or Its Individual Sections
You will have a lot to choose from, as the library provides many instruments. For example, you will find the full Orchestra and its sections in a different browser. In particular, there are strings, brass, and even percussion. - Different Articulations
In addition, you will have different articulations in each of the selected instruments. For example, if you choose a full Orchestra, you will get options such as long notes, staccato, and several swells: short, medium, and long. All of these will be different when you select individual instruments. - Change Some Dynamics
In the center of this library window, you’ll have several controls that help make the sound more interesting. There’s one slider for Dynamics and another for Expression, which acts as a volume control. Of course, you can control them directly on your midi keyboard. - Mixer Section
One of the most interesting things about this library is the Mixer section. Thanks to it, you can control your microphones. There are quite a few different options here: Mix1, and Mix2, recorded by top engineers. There are also the more vintage Vint1 and Vint2 and near and far mic positions.
Compatibility:
Spitfire Audio – Abbey Road One Orchestral Foundations is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.10 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Abbey Road One Orchestral Foundations by Spitfire Audio is a wonderful library of samples that will give you a wide and dimensional sound. In addition, you’ll have a full orchestra and its sections, which will help you create extraordinarily beautiful musical compositions. In terms of parameters, there’s a mixer with microphone balance and all the articulations you need.
Related Reading:
Top 12 Orchestral VST Plugins & Kontakt Libraries (+ FREE Plugins)
8. Brainworx bx_masterdesk
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
bx_masterdesk can be your to-go plugin for getting a quick mastering.
It’s no secret that you can do mastering in Logic Pro, thanks to stock plugins. But sometimes, it’s nice to have an all-in-one plugin that gives you all the tools you need to do it at once. In addition, it will be useful for beginners who are mastering their material.
It is exactly what Brainworx’s bx_masterdesk software is. In essence, it is a plugin that includes the emulation of analog processing of different stages. What is remarkable is that some regulators here are numbered. That way, you won’t get confused with what comes next.
Key Features:
- Set The Volume
The first control in the set is the Volume knob. With it, you can adjust the overall volume of the mix. Do it to go into the green zone on the VU Meter – it will give you more or less the desired level. - Adjust Your Foundation
The second important regulator is the Foundation. You can think of it as a tilt filter. So by moving to the left, you can make the mix more bass-heavy or vice versa by tilting to the right. Again, remember that it is important to keep the balance here. - Tone Control
In addition to all this, the plugin gives you the ability to tune the tone. There is a separate section at the bottom of the window for this. It’s basically like a guitar amp setup with Bass, Mid, Treble, and Presence controls. - Add Some Compression
In mastering, you often can’t do without compression. It will help you make the sound more controlled. It is noteworthy that the plugin has a built-in compressor, the regulator of which is in the center. On the left, you will find four flavors of compression in the section TMT Compressor Mode. - THD Control
Many professionals use the addition of harmonic distortion to make the sound warmer. The bx_masterdesk plugin also makes this possible thanks to the THD knob on the upper right side. So you can add harmonics to your liking. - Resonance Filters
Another great feature is the Resonance Filter. These two knobs help you remove unnecessary resonances in the low and high frequencies. For example, there are options in the 160 and 315-hertz areas and the 3150 and 6666-hertz areas.
Compatibility:
Brainworx bx_masterdesk True Peak is available for Windows 8 or higher and macOS 10.11 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
If you want one plugin that gives you the ability to do full mastering, then bx_masterdesk would be a great option. This software has all the stages you need, including tone, compression, adding harmonic distortion, and more. The tool is especially suitable for those who can’t afford to pay for mastering and want to do it themselves.
Related Reading:
9. XLN Audio RC-20 Retro Color
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
The RC-20 Retro Color from XLN Audio would be a great plugin to give color to instruments or an entire mix bus.
Giving color to the mix bus or individual instruments is always a good idea. The sound becomes more exciting and gets its own “flavor.“ And the next item on our list will give you plenty of opportunities to experiment with this. It is the RC-20 Retro Color from XLN Audio.
You get six different processing modules here, which include various types of effects. In addition, you can either apply all the sections at once or disable individual ones, choosing only what you need. And, of course, there is the section that is responsible for the overall output.
Key Features:
- 6 Sections Of Processing
Overall, the plugin will be divided into six sections: Noise, Wobble, Distort, Digital, Space, and Magnetic. In each of them, you will be able to select different types of effects and apply settings like Flux, Mix, Tone, and more. - Get Control Over Each Section
If you don’t need any of these sections, you can turn them off by pressing the little blue button. Or use the big knobs to control the amount of a particular effect. For example, use them to add that to your liking. - Magnitude Control
The big Magnitude slider in the upper right corner will be like a Mix control. Thus, you will get a completely wet signal in the right position. The more you move this to the left, the more the dry signal will be mixed in. - Master EQ Section
At the bottom of the plugin, you will have a separate section responsible for EQ. Here you can apply Low and High Pass filters and select their slope. In addition, you will get a Tone knob which can be used as a tilt filter or bell. - In & Out Control
And, of course, you will have separate controls for Input and Output. Notably, you also get a separate Width knob in this section to make the stereo picture a little wider.
Compatibility:
XLN Audio RC-20 Retro Color is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.10 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
The RC-20 Retro Color from XLN Audio is a wonderful processor, or modern channel strip, that allows you to add color to your sound. It has modules including Noise, Wobble, Distort, Space, and others. Also, it has a pretty powerful Master section, where you can adjust the tone and set the width.
Related Reading:
Top 12 Saturation Plugins (Best Mixing & Mastering Tools)
10. oeksound Soothe2
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Soothe2 by oeksound frees you from the drudgery of eliminating resonances that you had to do before.
Many recordings are not perfect, and you often have to deal with eliminating resonances. Of course, you can do this with EQ, which means looking for particular areas and notching them out. But what if there was software that would do it for you? That’s exactly what Soothe 2 by Oeksound is.
When this plugin first came out, it was a real hit, as its simplicity and UI won the hearts of many professionals. In essence, it is a dynamic resonance suppressor that can listen and find the right areas by itself. All you have to do is tweak a few controls to your liking. Let’s take a look at the features.
Key Features:
- Pick Your Band
The interface of the plugin looks something like EQ. For example, you will have five bands you can apply to different frequency areas. But when you boost them, you will tell the plugin that you need to eliminate more resonances in that area. - Adjust The Depth
No less important in your arsenal of work here will be the Depth knob. It will adjust the total amount of resonance elimination. By the way, there are also two modes of operation: Soft and Hard. In addition, you can adjust Sharpness and Selectivity. - Speed Settings
You will also have several controls similar to the compressor settings. We are talking about the Speed section. In particular, you will get Attack and Release knobs. These will be responsible for how fast the elimination of resonances is implemented and released. - Detailed Control Over Each Band
If you want to dive even deeper into configuring this plugin, you will be able to configure each of the bands individually. For example, there are parameters such as Sensitivity, Q, and Balance. You can also control the shape of the bands by selecting bell, slope, shelf, filter, and more. - Mix, Sidechain & M/S
You will have the option of such an important parameter as Mix. So you can mix in a dry signal if you get a lot of resonance reduction. The Soothe2 plugin allows you to use Sidechain function and work in Mid/Side mode.
Compatibility:
oeksound Soothe2 is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.13 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
The Soothe2 plugin from oeksound is an extremely powerful tool to eliminate unnecessary resonances easily. It has a fairly simple interface reminiscent of EQ. You can use it on individual instruments and vocals if they seem too harsh to you.
Also, the software will be unusually useful for mastering if you want to notch out some problematic frequencies.
Related Reading:
Top 10 Dynamic EQ Plugins (And 3 Best FREE Equalizers)
11. Devious Machines Infiltrator 2
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Infiltrator is a creative multi-effect sequencer designed by Devious Machines. Its aimed at adding interest to your sequences and sparing new ideas by layering and sequencing effects.
The concept of sequencing effect patterns is not new in electronic music. This is how you have to move and work within your arrangements if you wish to add excitement to your productions and stand out as a producer. Infiltrator comes with 54 unique effects to choose from, and the order in which you arrange and set them up will help you achieve a unique signature sound. They can achieve some unique glitch sounds.
Key Features:
- A vast amount of effect choices
As we said, the infiltrator comes equipped with 54 effects. Some of them are pitch-shifting, FM, delay, reverb, looper, repeater, distortion, and numerous modeled filters. The filter choices are particularly exquisite, with options like comb filters, Model-20, Ladder, and 101-style filters available. You can have ten effects running simultaneously in your chain with multiple instances of the same effect running on different settings. Each effect comes with a dedicated interface with enough controls to allow for huge sound design potential.
- Presets
When it comes to presets, it’s common for effects plugins that pack a punch elsewhere to fall short. This could be because some people view the use of presets as lazy. But we consider it presets to be a crucial demonstration of a plugin’s capabilities. Infiltrators 750 presets already quite a lot, but v2 more than doubles that number.
It’s an insane amount, but at least they’re organized into categories and subcategories. To jumpstart your imagination, check out the Sound Design folder, where you’ll find patches like Faller Robo 4 Bar and Inertia. Presets like Bit Meddler, Future Announcement, and Slick Shifter are just a few examples of the incredible variety of sounds you can create with this plugin. - Distortion Module
A new “Degrade” setting has been added to the Distort module for all distortion fanatics. The degrading vibe of this loud and destructive processor becomes apparent at around 30%. Concerning reverb, everything has been rolled into a single module with three different settings (Reverb, LoFi, and the brand-new Void). An ‘infinite’-like effect is achieved at the highest settings, and the sound is textured overall. - Master Section
An improved Master section with drive and compression is included in Infiltrator 2, and the same type of compressor controlled by a single knob is now available as a standalone module. The Master tab has a bass bypass option (40Hz to 1kHz), effectively disables all processing for frequencies below the specified threshold. - Time Manipulation Modules
The modules that can alter past events are the most original additions. It’s great because of how simple it is to create tape slow-downs and reversals and how Stretch and Varispeed cover most speed ranges and spectrum. You now have many options for adjusting how your music is played back in time, with this new effect and others like the stuttering Looper.
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.10 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST/RTAS/AU/AAX formats and supports 32 and 64 bit systems.
Summary:
Infiltrator is an excellent creative tool to have when producing glitches and stutters. It can spice up your chord progressions, melodies, or even drum sequences. The effects are of the highest quality, and the interface is pretty and easy to learn. There’s not much to criticize here; it’s a multi-effects beast of a plugin!
Related Reading:
The 10 Best Multi-Effect Plugins (And 3 Best Free Plugins)
12. Xfer LFO Tool
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Xfer’s LFO Tool can be a wonderful plugin to help you control your sound quickly.
Of course, Logic Pro has its own nice Step FX plugin that lets you use LFOs. But if you want to experiment with something new or don’t like the interface, the next item on our list is for you. It is the LFO Tool plugin from Xfer.
If you already have experience with LFO software, this plugin will not discourage you. For example, you can draw your curve and adjust its Rate, Swing, Phase, and much more here. All in all, this plugin can be a really powerful tool if you understand it well.
Key Features:
- Draw Your Curve
In the center of the screen of this plugin, you will see a timeline where you can draw your own LFO curve. By default, there will be about five points. But you can add as many as you like by double-clicking and moving them around the area. - Manage The Behavior
You will find several important settings at the bottom of the plugin, thanks to which you can affect the LFO movement in more detail. For example, there are Rate, Swing, Phase, PWM, Smooth, and Snap settings. - Filter Section
Looking at the top left corner, you will see the Filter section. Click the power button, and you will see many functions. In particular, Cutoff, Resonance, Mix, Drive settings, and other variable slider will work based on the selected filter. - Control via MIDI
One of the most interesting features of this plugin is the MIDI Section. You will see it in the lower left corner. Thanks to it, you can make the LFO respond to incoming MIDI notes. In addition, there are Note Retrig, Note Gate, and several other modes. - LFO Routing
Also, the developers did not leave you without the LFO Routing feature. Here is one row where you can choose which pane you want to modulate to source from. Next, you will get the Cut, Res, Vol, Pan, and Var parameters.
Compatibility:
Xfer LFO Tool is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.11 or higher. It comes in VST, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
The LFO Tool from Xfer is a wonderful effects utility that allows you to apply different modulations easily. Thanks to it, you can provide such effects as dubstep-type wobble, side-chain compressor simulation, trance-gate, auto-pan, tremolo, and others. Moreover, the plugin has enough settings to help you achieve this.
Related Reading:
7 Best Sidechain VST Plugins Xfer, Cableguys, Polyverse
Bonuses:
1. Cableguys ShaperBox 3 (Mixing Bundle)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
In cutting-edge electronic music production nowadays, a variety of complex automation and modulations are enabled by a combination of plugins and the DAW. If your digital audio workstation doesn’t include modulators, you may always resort to using MIDI sequencers and modulators instead.
However, imagine if certain plugins were capable of processing and modulation simultaneously. The core of the new functions in ShaperBox 3 is the ability to use a single plugin to do both simple ducking and complicated modulation for the drop.
ShaperBox 3 is the go-to plugin for inspiration, musical motion, and mixing magic, thanks to feature-rich updates, including Audio Triggering, Sidechain View in VolumeShaper, and the new LiquidShaper flanger/phaser. In addition, the nine powerful multiband effects in ShaperBox – Volume, Time, Drive, Filter, Crush Noise, Pan, Width, and Liquid – are each a clean slate for your imagination.
With a simple visual interface that makes production quick and enjoyable, add a Shaper and draw any waveform you can think of to control the impact.
Key Features:
- New Browser
There’s no longer any need to sit around and hope for ideas. The redesigned and improved browser in ShaperBox 3 provides quick and simple filtering and categorization of presets to help you quickly discover what you’re looking for. As a result, you can find rhythmic chops, jazzy fills, motion-packed sweeps, and more with just a few clicks and endless possibilities. - LiquidShaper
LiquidShaper gives you wild jet-plane flanging and deep, lush phasing in one Shaper. Custom LFO shapes take you far beyond the traditional. Modulate Centre and Feedback independently across three frequency bands. You can create gentle stereo modulations… or monstrous robotic comb filter FX! - Audio Triggering
Activating the new Audio setting to have the LFO reset with each sound effect, you may alter transients and add a rhythm-tracking creative effect with the help of ShaperBox. Modify the dynamics, saturation of assault, filtering of sustain, and more by redrawing the envelope of any sound.
Make use of the innate rhythm of drums, melodies, basslines, real instruments, and even complete orchestras to activate tape-stops, filter patterns, noise sequences, and more. - External Sidechain Input
So long as your kick isn’t in 4/4, you can still utilize Volume Shaper to bury your bass, thanks to the new Audio Triggering feature in ShaperBox 3. You can use this function when the External Sidechain Input is switched on.
However, you can use this function for more than simply kicks and sidechain ducking; for example, you could activate a bitcrushing pattern on your synth every time the snare hits. - Compressor Unchained
In ShaperBox, the multiband Compressor is now a standalone effect that you may add to the Shaper chain at any point. Dynamically manipulate even the most intricate Shaper chains, or smash them to pieces with pumping compression.
Compatibility
The plugin is available for Windows 8 or higher and macOS 10.9 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Conclusion
In the third installment of the ShaperBox series, you’ll find a comprehensive collection of effect processors ideal for creating any sound you can imagine. There are nine different Shaper modules included. Moreover, the plugin’s user interface is well-designed, so it’s easy to use and pleasant to interact with.
As great set of tools, ShaperBox 3 covers both static and moving effects. The LFO engine’s generative node interface allows you to create rhythmic envelopes, glitches, and even basic waveforms. The envelope follower’s multiband features also make it possible to use external side-chaining and internal filters. The Shaper plugin allows you to adjust the time, pan, drive, width, and loudness and apply filters and noise. Check our detailed review of Shaperbox 3.
2. iZotope Trash 2
Discontinued
Trash 2 by iZotope is a plugin that helps you add distortion to your sound the way you want.
Adding distortion is standard practice in music production. It helps provide a more expressive sound. Or destroying it completely can also be a good creative solution. Now, we think that Logic Pro lacks universal software that can help you with this, so we suggest you check out iZotope’s Trash 2.
The most important thing about this plugin is that it is divided into six sections: Filter 1, Trash, Filter 2, Convolve, Dynamics, and Delay. You’ll be able to use each of them or disable the extra ones to get what you need. But first, let’s take a closer look at all of them.
Key Features:
- Add Some Filtering
The first is the Filter section, where you can add some EQing. You will have as many as six bands there for this purpose. Notably, you will also have a second filter section where you can apply this after adding the distortion. - Main Trash Section
The Trash section will be responsible for adding the distortion itself. There you will find many different types of distortion and a curve with which you can create your own unique one. In addition, here, you can apply it with the multiband method. - Set The Convolve
One of the most interesting sections is Convolve. Here you will have the ability to put the sound in some space. You’ll find plenty of Impulse Responses here, including Amps, Classic Textures, Devices, FX, and more. - Control Dynamics
Notably, this plugin also has a separate Dynamics section. It allows you to add compression and gating. In particular, you get Threshold, Ratio, Attack, and Release controls. And, of course, separate parameters for your Gate. - Add Delay To The Signal
Another great feature is the Delay section. Here you will have six mods: Tape, Tape/Tube, Analog, Lo-Fi Digital, Broken Bit, and Digital. Also, the developers didn’t leave you without important parameters like Delay, Feedback, Width, and dry/wet ratio adjustment.
Compatibility:
iZotope Trash 2 is available for Windows XP or higher (both 32 and 64-bit) and macOS 10.8.5 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST/3, RTAS, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
The capabilities of the Trash 2 plugin from iZotope are really impressive. You’ll have plenty of options to sharpen the distortion effect as you need it. It will be possible thanks to the six sections, which have a lot of settings. So we can assume that this software will be especially useful for electronic music producers.
Related Reading:
Top 11 Distortion Plugins (And 4 Top Free Plugins)
Conclusion
As you can see, there are plenty of plugins you can use to enhance your arsenal of Logic Pro tools. And the best part is that they address the most diverse stages of musical production. So, at the end of this post, let us give you some tips on which software we think you should pay attention to.
If you need a powerful sampler with a rich library, check out number 1 of our list – Waves CR8 Creative Sampler. The number 3 ADSR Sample Manager is a good option if you need to arrange your existing samples.
We also advise you to consider buying #4 Native Instruments Kontakt 6 if you want to use professional and quality libraries. Speaking of libraries, the #6 Abbey Road One Orchestral Foundations from Spitfire Audio is also wonderful.
If you like to experiment with the sound, the 2 Tracktion Novum By Dawesome plugin is a good option. Well, fans working with LFO would like 11 Devious Machines Infiltrator and the bonus item Cableguys ShaperBox 2.
Remember, it is always important not what tool you use but how well you know how to use it. We wish you a pleasant musical production. Good luck!
Related Readings:
Top 20 Plugins For Ableton Live In 2023 (AND 14 FREE Plugins)
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30 Best Plugins For Reaper 2023 (And 20 FREE Plugins)
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Ilarion Ivanenko is a remote mixing and mastering engineer from Ukraine, a musician with more than 15 years of experience. Specializes in rock, metal, progressive and the other genres. He can’t imagine his life without music, as it is the biggest passion in his life