26 Best Paid Plugins For LMMS 2023

For this post, we tried to find lugins for various categories that we believe would be useful for LMMS users including all sorts of plugins – from drums, keys, guitars, synths and also effects.

Best Paid Plugins For LMMS: 26 Essential Instruments & Effects 2023

1. Arturia ARP2600 V (Semi-Modular Synth With Step Sequencer)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Bring Alan R. Pearlman’s 1972 icon ARP 2600 back to life with Arturia’s deep hardware emulation. 

Arturia’s ARP2600 V is a semi-modular synth that shares the UI design almost precisely with the original hardware. It features three oscillators and one filter with multiple types featured in the ARP 2500 hardware synth. It has 2 to 32-voice polyphony.

These idiosyncrasies do make Arturia’s plugin have a much more comprehensive range of sounds.  

However, thanks to the modular approach, beginners may not find it the easiest synth to use. Still, it features over 500 presets and in-app tutorials, making the learning and user experience a lot more intuitive.

Key Features:

• Synth Engine 
  As I mentioned earlier, three oscillators release these signals: triangle, sine, saw, square, and rectangle waveforms. There is also a noise module, ring modulator, a sample/hold module, and a mixer. You can pass these to a 24 dB/oct low-pass or a 12 dB multi-mode (LP, HP, BP, notch) filter. 
• Modulation 
  You’ll find two envelopes: an ADSR for the low-pass filters and an AR filter for the amplifier. And, unlike the original hardware’s OSC 2 used as an LFO, ARP 2600 V employs a separate LFO, which is pre-routed for vibrato. But you can also route it to anywhere else, of course. 
• Effects
  On top of the reverberation already present in the original instrument, the effects section allows you to add a Stereo Delay and Chorus to your sound. These effects give much more depth and a contemporary vibe to the sound. 
• Sequencer
  You’ll find an emulation of the ARP model 1601 sequencer in this plugin. The design may catch you off guard, but it’s pretty easy to use. The top row of faders lets you select which “bus” outputs the signal per step (a gate). And you can choose transposition or modulation in the faders below. So, you could use this sequencer for note arpeggiation or modulation.

Compatibility:

ARP 2600 V is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.11 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

If you don’t already own a modular synth plugin, you should give ARP 2600 V a try to understand the concept. It’s quite easy to use as all of the modules are on the UI.

Furthermore, you’ll love it if you enjoy the analog sound, which Arturia is renowned for recreating. You can also consider their V-Collection, which includes this instrument. However, it does require a reasonably fast CPU to operate well.

2. XLN Audio Addictive Keys (Piano)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Despite being a little dated, Addictive Keys has remained relevant thanks to its flexible sound and enthusiastic fans.

If you are familiar with Addictive Drums, you’ll find the visual similarities between the two. When you first open Addictive Keys, you’ll notice a flashy but slightly aged interface, which is still very functional. Furthermore, the philosophy behind the piano plugin is also similar to the drums: providing a flexible library with multiple effect processing options but in a small size. 

Purchasing Addictive Keys is a little different compared to others on our list. There are four libraries: Modern Upright, Studio Grand, Electric Grand, and Mark One. You can buy each individually, in pairs, in a triplet, or all four of them, with each step reducing the price further. 

Key Features:

• Mic Positions 
  The plugin features multiple mic positions that can drastically alter the sound to your liking. For example, in the Studio Grand library, you have five mic positions: Close Ribbon, Ambiance, Close Tube (XY), Middle Tube, Body Tube (mono), and Side Ribbon. You can mix up to three microphone positions to create your personalized sound. 
• Mixing
  Other than mics, you can use the onboard effect plugins to modify your sound further. There is an EQ, a noise generator, tremolo, and chorus on the main Edit page of each mic position you have selected. And there are two FX sends that feature a delay, reverb, and an EQ. And finally, you will find a phaser, EQ, compressor, distortion, noise generator, and a filter in the Master channel.
• Explore
  Under the Explore tab on the interface, you can change your sample library (if you have more than one) or select presets. I’m very impressed by the variety of presets you can find. Even if there aren’t many sample libraries, you can get a surprisingly wide variety of sounds thanks to the mic placements and effect plugins. So, you’ll find patches such as “Prepared Horror” and “Woody Pizzicato” that are heavily manipulated to sound otherworldly.
• Further Edits 
  You can also make adjustments to the pitch to create detuned effects or vibrato. Furthermore, there is an envelope each for the pitch, filter, and volume. And other than that, there are three pedals: sustain, sostenuto, and soft. You can adjust each pedal’s characteristics as well. Unfortunately, though, there is no way to edit resonance or the lid position. 

Here you can find Stu Harrison from Merriam Pianos reviewing the Addictive Keys with some detailed look at the Edit tab and sound demonstrations.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.9 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Addictive Keys is one of the first-ever piano plugins I owned, and I still return to it when I want something easy and quick. The sound is more than decent, and the small size makes it a highly efficient piece of software.

Furthermore, it offers more ways to stretch your creativity in sound design than most other traditional piano plugins. So, I’d recommend this one if you are an electronic or a pop/rock musician.

Related Readings:

11 Best Rhodes Plugins (+5 FREE Plugins)

3. Native Instruments Battery 4 (Drum Machine)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Although mostly recommended for electronic and hip-hop music, Battery 4 is an undeniable gem with an extensive variety of sounds.

The global music community got introduced to Battery 4 as a part of the Komplete 9 bundle from Native Instruments that included more than 60 instruments and effects. Battery 4 is a giant step from Battery 3, introducing new features and a massive sound library.

Running this plugin is easy as it can be. Drag and drop a preset from the library into the matrix of drum pads and start rolling with it. By utilizing the Main page, Modulation option, and Effects option, enable tons of features that could affect the sound of your drums.

Key Features:

• Visuals
  Battery 4 offers a type of color coding within the plugin. This type of visual organization makes the job easier. Kicks are shown in red, snares in yellow, claps in pink, and hats in blue. Each time you choose a preset, a waveform takes over the color of the preset. Adding the customizable matrix of drum pads provides freedom to organize the original, custom sample rack.
• Main page
  It offers seven sample modes: Volume Envelope, Pitch Envelope, Velocity, Engine, Filter, Compressor, and Send section with Reverb and Delay. You can modify your sound in the Engine section. The Vintage option allows you to emulate analog-sounding amps. By changing the Sample option to Stretch, the plugin saves the original time of the sample without any time warping.
• Effect option
  The Effect option on the bottom offers Solid EQ, Solid bus Comp, Transient master, Saturation, and Lo-Fi. Both EQ and Compressor could find it’s role as a stand-alone plugin. A great part of the Effect option is the Transient master slot. If there is a need for more “snap” on a snare, crank up the attack option slightly.
• Modulation option
  Under the Modulation options, there are Twin LFOs and a Modulation Envelope. For instance, using the Modulation slot, you could modulate the panning of the sample, the cutoff of the filter, or emulate a vibrato by linking the LFO to the Tune element.
• Control over the waveform
  One of the cool features of this plugin is all the ways you can control your sample. You can determine the duration of the sound, tune it, reverse it, or play with your Pan option. You even get a visual representation of the moves you are making during the process.
• Analog and Old school sound
  Within the plugin, there are a few features that could offer you analog characters to the sample. To start, using Tape Saturation could give a little bit of bite and distorted quality. Then, the Lo-Fi feature has noise, reduces bit depth with the Bits knob, and downsizes the sample rate with the Hertz option. The sample rate can be decreased to 50Hz.
• Humanization
  Using plugins like this one could make you tired of the “correctness” that comes out of it. That’s when the Humanize and the Articulation features come into play. You can use them to create a humane feel in the performance of your rhythm. In essence, they are real-time randomizers.

Compatibility:

NI Battery 4 is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.12 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Considering all the enumerated features, we find Battery 4 a high-quality and easy-to-use plugin with tons of sounds. Although it may not be the perfect solution for natural drum sounds, it is a logical option for producing hip-hop and dance grooves.

Related Reading:

Top 20 Native Instruments Plugins & Kontakt Libraries

4. Vital Audio Vital (Wavetable Synth)

More Info & Price (Free Version Available)

Vital’s synthesizer brings spectral oscillator warping to add new life to your wavetables.

Acting directly on a waveform’s harmonics, this technology can create drastically different tones and shapes from a signal source. Thanks to this simple tool that creates endless possibilities, what was already incredibly customizable just became even more so.

If you want to import your samples to create a wavetable, Vital’s pitch-splice and vocode converter are two great and easy add-ons to get even more specific on your sound design.

You can also develop wavetables from scratch via the built-in wavetable generator or even directly from the text!

Key Features:

• • Excellent oscillators
    These oscillators have a shallow low noise floor and a sharp cut-off at Nyquist for almost no aliasing, creating the cleanest sounds with the best quality possible. “Nyquist” means that each periodic signal should be periodically sampled at a rate twice the size of your audio signal. So, in order to overcome this, a higher quality sampling is sought after on synths like Vital – and a cut-off might be the simplest tool you’d ever need.
  • Microtonality at its best
    This synth can load .tun, .scl, and .kbd files – which can alter and configure how the tuning’s used will perform – and play in a microtonal setting without any troubles. A brand new tuning system can unlock new possibilities regarding how the samples are performing. This expands not only how you’ll play notes and frequencies, but also how to sample and interact with one another via the oscillators.
  • Key-tracked LFOs
    It’s possible to create key-tracked bass lines with this LFO setting, combining it with an audio-rate modulation and using your LFO as an oscillator modulation source. This enables you to instantly automate certain modulation parameters in relation to whatever notes are being played.
  • MPE support
    If you have a ROLI keyboard, a Linnstrument, or other MPE-compatible gear, Vital offers full support and controls. This way, you can add more expression to your sound and make use of dynamics the way you’re used to.
  • Audio-rate modulation
    The audio modulator kicks in when you have an audio signal or a parameter being varied and brings much more personality to your tones.  The variations can be tracked down and edited in the most creative ways possible. The signal whose waveform is used to trigger is modulated accordingly, with extreme precision and character.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for mac OS 10.12 or higher, Windows 10 or higher, and Ubuntu Linux 18.04 or higher. All 64-bit only, with OpenGL 3 or higher. It comes in VST, AU, and LV2 plugin formats.

Summary:

Vital Audio brings a different wavetable synth than most ones out there, especially regarding creating new sounds. Most do allow you to develop wavetables based on any audio files, but this is probably the only one on this list that can handle microtonality, text input, and effects like vocoder and pitch-splice too.

The warping oscillator ensures that each harmonic will be shaped at your desire, and this is truly unique to find in a synthesizer.

Related Reading:

Top 7 Synth Plugins For West Coast & G-Funk 

5. VSL – Synchron Strings Pro (Orchestral Strings)

More Info & Price

Vienna Symphonic Library is responsible for some of the best sampled orchestral instruments, and Synchron is certainly one of them. 

Synchron Strings Pro is a string library recorded in Synchron Stage, Vienna, and it features a massive arsenal of articulations with unparalleled sampling and programming. The result is a highly natural-sounding string library, capable of simple pad-like long notes or energetic runs alike. 

I must note that due to the sheer size of the library (over 122 GB for the smaller version), it might be overkill if you are looking for a backing section for pop music or so.

However, if you enjoy composing classical music, Synchron Strings Pro stands as one of the best strings plugins that money can buy. 

Key Features:

• Natural Articulations
  The instrument features an extensive collection of articulations and expressions, including standard ones like legato, staccato, spiccato, tremolo, etc., and special ones like harmonics, col legno, flautando, and legato agile, which is ideal for fast, bouncing runs. Similarly, each articulation has multiple types, expressions, and release options. So, for example, you could have a legato with vibrato played in pianissimo with a soft release. 
• Multiple Mic Positions
  The Synchron Strings Pro was recorded using 8 microphones. And the library has a Standard and a Full version, where the latter has all the 8 microphones available for adjustments. The standard version has a close mic, mid mic (front row), room mic (L/R), and room mic (center). 
• Immersive
  Let’s continue from the previous feature. The Full version employs four more mics, including a back mic (second row), main surround mic, high stereo mic, and a high surround mic. They are primarily for creating immersive surround sound, including 2.0.2 (stereo with height audio) and 5.1.4 (Aura 3D or Dolby Atmos setup). 
• Presets
  The library features many presets that include per-ensemble preset, mapped tutti, and octave combinations employing two ensembles for a fast workflow. Most presets feature multiple articulations that you can switch on the fly and polyphonic legato.

Compatibility:

This library is available for Windows 8.1 or higher and macOS 10.10.5 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Synchron Strings Pro is an inspiring wealth of sound with natural note transitions and expression. It does require a moderately powerful computer to perform smoothly, but it’s to be expected for instruments of this detail. I would highly recommend it if you work on classical music.

The only downside is that you will require an eLicenser USB protection device, even for the demo. You can purchase one from Vienna or use an existing eLicenser key, such as from Steinberg or Arturia. Finally, the installation process can be tedious for someone, but it’s worth it in the end.

Related Readings:

Top 7 Strings Kontakt Libraries 2022 (And 3 Free Libraries)

6. Native Instruments Symphony Series Percussion (Kontakt Library – Orchestral Percussions)

More Info & Price 

The Symphony Series: Percussion library from Native Instruments is perfect if you’re looking for the most realistic orchestral percussion sounds.

This library is part of a separate Native Instruments symphonic series that includes brass, strings, and woodwind. As for percussion, it includes samples of more than 50 instruments that creators recorded in a first-class studio in Budapest. All in all, they have covered all possible percussion that can be used for cinematography.

To be more specific, the library includes timpani, orchestral drums, mallets, symbols, gongs, and many more. On top of that, there are even some specific cinematic percussion instruments like anvils, celesta, and lo piano hits.

You can play them both individually and together. Let’s break down the features of the library in more detail.

Key Features:

• Control Your Dynamics
  The large knob in the center of the window controls how dynamic an instrument sounds. Turn it to the limit to get the loudest and most vital hits. You can also automate this knob to achieve different dynamics and influence the song’s mood. In addition, you’ll have manual control over Attack, Release, Tune, and Velocity.
• Possible Ways of Playing
  The available articulations are based on the specific instrument you have chosen. To summarize, the available percussion articulations include hits, crescendo rolls, tremolos, FX articulations, and edge variations.
• Drumhead Resonance Simulation
  The creators of this library included the unique Drumhead Resonance technology. It recreates the changing tonal qualities of a drumhead based on the intensity with which it is played. It means you can get the most realistic sound from your percussion.
• Microphone Mixer
  You can open the mixer to adjust the balance between the microphones at any time with the Stereo, Close, Mid, Far, and Spot faders here. It allows you to fine-tune how you want to hear the percussion – whether it’s wide in the stereo picture or the opposite – narrowed.
• Add Some Effects
  At the bottom of the Mixer section, you will see all the possible effects you can use. These include EQ with bass, midrange, and treble controls. In addition, there is Reverb, Compressor, and Filter.

Compatibility:

The library is available for Kontakt Player or Kontakt, which works on Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.13 or higher, both 64-bit only. Kontakt comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

The Symphony Series: Percussion library from Native Instruments might appeal to you if you’re looking for quality orchestral percussion samples. The Drumhead Resonance technology here will surprise you with its realistic sound.

Experimenting with different microphones and thereby influencing the stereo picture is also a great feature. In addition, this library has all the effects you will ever need.

Related Reading:

20 Best Kontakt Libraries For All Categories (Synths, Drums, Vocals)

7. IK Multimedia – Hammond B-3X (Organ)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

With 91 tonewheels based on different meticulously conservated Hammond organs, the B-3X applies absolute realism with its quick algorithms to mix tonewheels with the note’s real-time and drawbars’ volumes.

With overzealous attention to detail, IK Multimedia reproduced the many peculiar aspects of the Hammond to deliver an organic and real sensation in its virtual instrument.

With an authentic timbre, the Hammond B-3X by IK Multimedia adds in realism by conveying an interface to achieve the exact experience it is to play on an actual organ. In addition to that, they brought some modernity to the overall user experience with advanced and easy-to-use controls.

Key Features:

• Stomps
  Hammond B-3X features a five-unit pedal section in the “Stomps” segment with overdrive, graphic EQ, chorus-vibrato, string reverb, and wah-effect. These effects use a similar technology by some of IK Multimedia’s renowned plugins, such as the AmpliTube and T-RackS. By setting these carefully-made effects, you’ll be able to recreate any vibe from iconic tonewheel organs, to which you can attribute MIDI controls for a better experience.
• CABS Section
  The CABS section work as a cabinet space with many different and useful amp choices. It features a Leslie simulation, which has an equalizing option, that can be combined and mixed with a parallel 4×12 guitar cabinet. Using the top-rated technology applied in different products, such as the AmpliTube 4 and Leslie Collection, the Hammond B-3X delivers a complete sonic modulation experience. The setup area in the CABS segment will let you choose the Mic setup and distance and acceleration and deceleration knobs to set the curve you want the sound to have.
• Guitar Amp
  To give you a unique experience, the Hammond B-3X is equipped with a British Lead guitar amp that, when selected, shapes the organ sound in a fascinating and individual process. With the plugin’s modern amplifier feature, you can set values for the Presence, Spring Reverb, and frequency range (Bass, Middle, and Treble). A unique addition, the guitar amp is an ingredient for experimentation and manipulation with a rock flavor.
• Effects
  To add a final polishing in the instrument’s notes, the Hammond B-3X has three studio post-effects to finalize the sound’s shape. By presenting you with a built-in compressor limiter, equalizer, and digital reverb, the IK Multimedia’s virtual organ offers a detailed and complete service. With the compressor limiter, you’ll be able to set and monitor the sound loudness without compromising any organic texture. The equalizer, EQ-81, will add warmth and pleasantness with its modern algorithms. And to add a perfect spatial quality, the digital reverb will feature five intuitive knobs.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.10 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, AAX, and RTAS formats.

Summary:

The Hammond B-3X by IK Multimedia offers unique color and modulation. Its easy-to-use controls are extremely practical for any producer that wants to get realistic organ sounds quickly.

The authentic organ sounds reproduced by Hammond B-3X can be modulated with many features like a guitar amp, a Leslie simulation, and a built-in Post FX cabinet.

With a brilliant design, the Hammond B-3X can be easily attributed to MIDI controls, delivering a great workflow to any player.

Related Reading:

Top 6 IK Multimedia Plugins For Various Categories 2023

8. Ample Guitar LP (Les Paul – Electric Guitar)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

The best sounds of one of Gibson’s most iconic instruments are housed in this plugin.

The Gibson Les Paul was first introduced in 1952 as a signature model for Les Paul himself. As the years progressed, the instrument got the shape that we know and love today, with two humbucker pickups and solid construction. Ample Guitar brings this instrument to your DAW with good-quality samples and functions, feeling much like the original instrument.

Key Features:

• • Vintage inspired
    In 1957, the Les Paul guitar saw the introduction of the famous humbucker pickups, but only in 1958 did they get their iconic “burst” appearance. They switched from gold paint to sunburst, and this reflected not only aesthetics: the wood used in the tops was also improved, with plain selections of awesome maple pieces. This is an important element of the “Les Paul Sound,” and Ample Guitar sought to reproduce the 1958 model as best as possible in this collection.
  • Double mode
    Sometimes, you may want to double the guitar part in your track for a specific moment or an entire section. Instead of recording it twice, you can simply activate the “Double Guitar” mode and have instant twin guitar melodies from single MIDI input.
  • Amp simulation
    The electric guitar only makes sense when plugged into an electric amplifier. To cover this, Ample Guitar included six renditions of famous models: “Metal Double” (Mesa Boogie Dual), “Metal Treble” (Mesa Boogie Triple), “Lead 800” (Marshall JCM 800), “Jazz 120” (Roland Jazz Chorus 120), “65 Twang” (Fender Twin Reverb 1965), and “57 Delight” (Fender Deluxe 1957).
  • Cabinets
    Another crucial aspect of an authentic guitar tone involves the cabinets working alongside the amplifiers. You can opt to load them in 1×12, 2×12, and 4×12 settings, with specific models for each brand included in each configuration.
  • Riffer
    The “Riffer” is an algorithm created to assist you in creating good-sounding riffs automatically. You can create them randomly through the “Die” symbol, but also choose the pitch tuning, articulations used, specific fingering, and much more.
  • Mic selection
    You can choose to mic your amp with eight different models: “U87,” “C414,” “MD421,” “SM57,” “E609,” “C414 XLS,” “R121,” and “M160.”

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for macOS 10.9 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It runs in standalone mode and VST2, VST3, AAX, and AU plugin formats.

Summary:

Virtual instruments are hard to capture, especially instruments that depend on their physical construction to resonate. Electric guitars fall into this category, but somehow Ample Guitar managed to achieve a decent result in capturing the nuances behind not only the guitar tone but the techniques and articulations involved when playing one.

The equipment offered in this library is also decent, and if you don’t have a trustworthy guitarist around, this might be a good option to quickly record some guitar parts.

Related Reading:

Top 7 Acoustic Guitar Plugins 2023 (And 4 Best Kontakt Libraries)

9. WEDGE FORCE Oolong (Acoustic Guitar)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

WEDGE PRESSURE  Oolong allows keyboardists to produce realistic guitar parts by simulating the sound of a professionally recorded acoustic guitar.

This ground-breaking software instrument allows keyboardists to include the full, authentic tone of acoustic guitars in their music. The harmonic resonances of guitar strings, and especially the way these resonances shift with each note played, are not captured by sampled guitar synths; therefore, they never fully sound natural.

With WEDGE Force’s “Synthetic Force Engine III,” this acoustic guitar plugin perfectly preserves their tone by synthesizing each note in real-time from waveforms captured in a studio. Oolong’s meticulously constructed algorithms allow it to retain each note’s authentic waveform character.

Key Features:

• Expression
  Oolong tone is generated, so you may decide exactly where the plucking occurs. You may adjust the plucking position in real-time using the MOD wheel controller on your MIDI keyboard. If you play towards the bridge, your tone will have that actual guitar treble boost.
  Modulating the string damping force from completely open to substantially muffled strings and everything in between is another approach to achieve expressive variety. Again, you may adjust the string damping by assigning a controller to your MIDI keyboard.
• Effects
  There have been countless iconic guitar riffs captured in the studio using only an acoustic guitar and a microphone. You can achieve impressively massive results straight out of the box with oolong, and only a small amount of EQ is required.
  The built-in Delay and Flanger effects allow you to create a more contemporary sound. A custom-built multi-band compressor protects the bright high-end frequencies in Oolong.
• Better Than Sampled Guitar
  Because the harmonic resonances of the guitar strings change for each rapidly played note, regularly sampled guitar synths have never sounded fully natural. WEDGE’s “Synthetic Force Engine III” was developed for this purpose. It synthesizes each note in using algorithms designed to faithfully reproduce the timbre of the original waveforms from which they sampled them in the studio.
• Mixing Console
  Oolong provides a clean DI signal for acoustic guitars, which can then be re-amped and processed. Additionally, it provides a Studio-MIC and an Ambient-MIC signal; both captured using the Blumlein pair technique in a professional recording studio. You can adjust the balance of the three signals in any way you like to find the perfect blend for your music.
• Surround Sound
  Oolong can be played on a mono or stereo track, but it can also be placed on a multi-channel track in your DAW to give depth to your movie or gaming soundtracks. In addition, the Delay and Flanger effects are optimized, and the surround channels are automatically outputted, giving your tone a more three-dimensional quality.

Compatibility:

The OS requirements for this plugin are Windows 7 or higher for PC and macOS 10.9 or higher for Mac. It comes in VST/RTAS/AU/AAX formats and supports 32 and 64 bit systems.

Summary:

As far as guitar plugins go, this one comes close to replicating the full range of options and modes available on a genuine instrument. The guitar tuning system is intricate since it allows for a wide range of Hz so that you may play in 432Hz for a more classical sound than at the more common 440Hz, and the effects and mic blending are spots on. Although it can’t quite replace a real guitar, it’s a great instrument.

10. Ample Sound Ample Bass J (Bass Guitar)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

If you like the sound of the legendary Fender Jazz Bass, the following plugin will appeal to you. It is Ample Bass J from Ample Sound.

The Chinese company Ample Sound has long established itself in the market of virtual instruments. They are known for the high quality of sampling and, as a result, their software’s excellent sound. They have created a lot of plugins, including bass guitars, electric guitars, folk instruments, and much more.

The Ample Bass J plugin is a virtual instrument based on the Fender Jazz Bass, specifically the John English Masterbuilt. With it, you can create basslines with the keyboard or your MIDI controller or generate them.

Key Features:

• Play Fingers or Pick
  You get to switch between playing with fingers and picking. The plugin creators have worked to make the sound as realistic as possible, so there is a rich fingering noise. In general, there are such articulations as Sustain, Palm Mute, Hammer On & Pull Off, Slide in & out, Legato at random length & pitch & poly, Natural Harmonic, Legato Slide, and others.
• A Bunch of Technologies
  Ample Bass J uses Customized Parameters Control. It means that the MIDI controller can affect any button or knob. It also features Poly Legato and Slide Smoother technology. In addition, certain types of performances lend themselves to automatic fingering logic thanks to Multiple Capo Logics.
• Fantastic AMP System
  The creators of the plugin have added a section of amplifiers and cabinets here. The heads include the available Vintage-15, Bass-500, and Bass-Pro models. As for the cabinets, you can choose between 1×15, 2×10, 4×10, and 8×10. In addition, you’ll have the option to use different microphones like the SM57, U87, MD421, and C414.
• Spice Up Your Tone With Effects
  Ample Sound has made sure that you can hone your tone as best you can. That’s why features like 8-band EQ, IR Reverb, 6-Tap Echo, and 2-Line Compressor are present. They all have a lot of settings as well.
• Easy Use of Tablatures
  Most Ample Sound plugins are endowed with a Tab Player. Use it to load bass tablature. Moreover, you can even export individual files from it.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.9 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST2/3, AU, AAX formats, and as a standalone host.

Summary:

Ample Bass J from Ample Sound is another great plugin from the Chinese company that will give you quality bass sound for your home or commercial studio. The creators have worked hard to capture the richness of the Fender Jazz Bass John English Masterbuilt sound as accurately as possible. The software has enough possibilities to sculpt your unique bass tone.

Related Reading:

20 Best Plugins For Rock Musicians (+ 6 FREE Plugins)

11. Brainworx Friedman BE-100 (Guitar Amp)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

The Brainworx’s Friedman BE-100 is an actual piece of rock and metal history in an amp sim plugin. It’s got everything you need, both a raging and a singing Plexi sound.

Friedman BE-100 guitar amplifiers have long been legendary because of their rich sound, used in the arsenal of the world’s top rock and metal bands. For example, Alice in Chains, Pink, Bon Jovi, The Cult, and Foo Fighters, to name a couple.

And the nice thing about it is that the Friedman BE-100 plugin perfectly emulates the sound of this piece of guitar gear.

It is a two-channel plugin that emulates the growl of 100 watts, all amplified by EL34 tubes. You will get a punchy and dynamic tone that can cut through the mix. The Clean Channel, on the other hand, lets you get a nice and clean tone where you need it.

Speaking of settings, like in other Brainworx plugins, everything you need for a ready guitar tone is available here, including many impulses.

Key Features:

• Plexi controls
  On the front panel of the plugin, you will see all the typical Plexi settings. In addition to the clean and high gain channel switch, you can control Presence, Bass, Middle, Master, Gain, and Clean Volume here. There are also tiny switches that allow you to influence the character of the sound even more. For example, Fat control will thicken up your low-end, C-45 will affect midrange, and Saturation scoops things out.
• FX Rack
  As in other Brainworkx plugins, this section contains Noise Gate with settings and Tight and Smooth controls, which stands for the high and low-pass filters. In addition, you get a Delay with tempo tapping and knobs like Feedback and Lo-Fi.
• Recording Chain
  The number of built-in impulses in the plugin is enormous. You will find more than a hundred of all kinds of IRs with different combinations of guitar cabinets and microphones. In addition, there is an information window function that tells you what kind of equipment is present in a particular IR.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.9 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST2, VST3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

If you want the legendary Plexi sound of a Friedman BE-100 guitar amplifier, this plugin will be the perfect solution for you.

You’ll get all the control you need to make it even “on steroids” thanks to the Fat, C-45, and Saturation controls. And over 100 cabinet impulses will send you on a journey to dial the guitar tone that suits you best.

12. PROCESS AUDIO Spicerack (Distortion)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

PureMix’s software company, Process Audio, has released an audio plugin called “Spicerack.”

Because it was conceived, built, and fine-tuned by Grammy-winning engineers, Spicerack radically rethinks how often audio saturation and distortion are accomplished. There are five distinct types of harmonic distortion available in Spicerack, each of which can be used to saturate further, distort, shape, or texturize your audio.

Five algorithms have been designed and fine-tuned to provide a wide range of colors that are valuable to any producer and mixing engineer.

Key Features:

• Parallel Processing
  After adjusting the volume of the processed signal with the Wet Gain knob, users can blend it in with the unprocessed sound using the Mix knob, which provides parallel processing. Finally, a Console Remote function enables simultaneous interaction with several instances of Spicerack within a single session.
• Distortion Types
  Drive, Tube, Amp, Lo-Fi, and Fuzz are just a few distortion types available in the plugin, which can be selected using the buttons at the top of the user interface. The Gate section, which comes after the input level knob, lets users target only the loudest parts of the source signal for processing.
  The Drive control and its associated automatic gain settings can be found in the following section, along with a Drive Boost button that provides an additional 18dB of gain. Finally, by using a selector switch, the user can decide whether to process the entire signal, the center channel only or the left and right channels independently.
• User Interface
  The Auto Gain Compensation and Calibration features in Spicerack make it possible to smoothly adjust the main Drive control between its minimum and maximum settings, allowing users to quickly and easily apply the desired saturation.
  In addition, the effect uses the true linear-phase technology pioneered by Process Audio’s Sugar plugin, which, according to the developer, is a first for a parallel saturation plugin and produces previously unheard results when blending wet and dry signals.
• EQ Section
  We then move on to the EQ, where linear filters cancel out unwanted noise when mixing wet and dry signals. Peak and tilt controls are available in addition to low-pass and high-pass filters. The equalizer’s graph is displayed vertically rather than horizontally, and it sits next to a sizable Tone slider that you can use to darken or brighten the overall sound.
  The EQ knob can come either before or after the Drive control. You can activate the linear-phase mode via a button at the bottom of the user interface; however, doing so will increase both latency and CPU usage.

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:

It’s a greater plugin with well-designed distortion algorithms, auto gain adjustment for gain staging, and low CPU usage. But if you haven’t decided about SpiceRack yet, try out a trial version in the link above, which comes with the full version regardless of whether you decide to keep it.

13. Arturia Chorus DIMENSION-D (Chorus)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Software audio plugins are getting closer than ever to emulating hardware gear accurately, and Arturia’s Dimension-D serves as proof.

Introduced back in 1979, the Roland Dimension-D was an outboard chorus effect that was once a must-have pro-audio effects unit. It was beloved for its high spatial yet pitch modulation-free chorus sound. Furthermore, it works excellently on everything, from vocals, acoustic guitar, drums to synths and electric keyboards.

Arturia Dimension-D is a close emulation of the original gear that reproduces much of the nuance and character, which made the Roland gear so famous. It features a familiar interface design, although it provides you with far more control than the original hardware did. And like the hardware, it works particularly well on mono sounds to make them sound wider and livelier.

Key Features:

• Dimension Modes
  The Roland Dimension-D chorus effect was a preset-based processor. So, it came with five buttons on its face, four of them for selecting presets and one off-switch. Arturia’s interpretation of this effects unit also provides five buttons on its main user interface. However, instead of the off-switch, you’ll find a “0” switch, which bypasses the plugin but keeps the internal electronics, including compressors, expanders, and filters, active.
  The other four switches select a preset each. So, Mode 1 offers the softest chorus effect, whereas Mode 2 provides a little more chorus with half the delay time than Mode 1. Similarly, Mode 3 provides a highly pronounced chorus effect that gives the famous “swirly” modulations. And lastly, Mode 4 increases the wet amount of the other modes, meaning you have to combine it with any other mode.
• Processing Modes
  At the top right of the user interface, you’ll find a toggle button that switches between mono and stereo mode. The mono mode sums the source signal before processing it, whereas the stereo mode provides full stereo processing with two sets of internal components. By default, the plugin is stereo, but you might find creative results using the mono mode.
• Advanced Controls
  As with any Arturia plugin, you’ll find an advanced panel alongside the main interface. And Dimension-D provides you with various controls in this section. First, you can change the oscillator shape for the modulation LFO. The alternative shapes include sine, ramp, random wave (sample & glide), and another random waveform (sample & hold).
  Likewise, the Dynamic Color control changes the time constants of the compressor and expander stages of the effect. The highest position has a lower attack/release value (hence a saturated sound), whereas the lowest position has the longest attack/release value. Furthermore, it features width and mix-controls.

Compatibility:

Dimension-D is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.10 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Dimension-D may not sound exactly like the original gear, but it provides a lot more flexibility and comfort compared to hardware. For example, while the Roland hardware only provided built-in presets with no other controls, Arturia’s design offers helpful features like the dry/wet knob.

Messing around in the advanced panel changes the sound into something entirely foreign quickly, but it should provide plenty of experimenting ground for the creative.

14. Eventide Undulator (Tremolo)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Eventide’s Undulator is modeled on the Tremolo preset that came with their popular H3000 analog multi-fx processor.

The interface will be easy for most guitar players to adapt to as it resembles a stompbox unit. The controls on this plugin are easy to access for real-time use and would suit live performance situations quite well. 

Key Features:

• Fast/Slow Toggle
  This button toggles you between your primary Tremolo and a second set to a slower relative speed. This trigger is excellent for creating unpredictable volume changes in your signal flow. 
• Spread Parameter
  The spread parameter allows you to place harmonics on top of your affected signal for a wider sounding tremolo. You can patch other effects into this one as you would on a modular synth. 
• Secondary LFO
  Beneath the primary controls in the center of the Undulator’s interface are a set of knobs that control a second LFO. This LFO adjusts the depth and speed of your Tremolo and modulates its minimum and maximum values to your taste. 
• Envelope/ADSR mode
  Using this setting on your primary LFO will cause your signal’s modulation to be controlled by its own amplitude. This means that your Tremolo will rise and fall according to the peaks of your input signal. This unique Tremolo feels very organic and sounds excellent over drones, guitars, or synths. 

Compatibility:

The Eventide Plugin is available to Windows 7 and up or OS X 10.12 or higher. It’s available in VST, AAX, or AU formats.

Summary: 

If you’re someone who likes to use Tremolo in their effects chain during composition or live performances, you’ll enjoy the Eventide Undulator. It may not be the best plugin for building meticulous volume modulation patterns or sequences. Still, it can be beneficial for generating modulations that you can tweak on the fly. The addition of the secondary LFO controls makes for very intriguing modulations when patched in with the spread parameters and is ideal for giving signals a dreamy character. 

Related Reading:

Top 12 Eventide Plugins With Best Value

15. Arturia Flanger BL-20 (Flanger)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Arturia Flanger BL-20 lets you create your own control patterns.

The Arturia Flanger BL-20 plugin is a recreation of the legendary BEL BF-20 stereo flanger, a single-oscillator flanger with variable depth control, and a modulation frequency knob from the ’70s. The interface is intuitive and straightforward, allowing you to adjust the effect quickly, and it’s a great plugin for scoring and EDM producers.

If you want to get flanging effects right in the DAW of your choice, then this plugin is worth checking out, so let’s see some of the essential features of this release. Instant Flanger is an analog recreation of the original Instant Flanger from 1979.

Key Features:

• Stereo Enhancer:
  It has a stereo enhancer, which can operate in either mono or stereo mode. You can use the stereo enhancer in mono mode to enhance the bass response of a mix. In stereo mode, the left and right channels are processed separately to produce a wide, three-dimensional sound that enhances the sense of space.
• BBD Warmth:
  The Flanger BL-20 replicates an authentic bucket-brigade device circuitry to emulate its analog older brother’s characteristic warm response. It provides you with a smooth analog sound but with all of the advantages of the digital world.
• Advanced Controls:
  The plugin adds a new dimension to the familiar flanger. This pedal goes beyond the standard principles of flangers by adding cutting-edge controls that encourage users to explore the potentials of the sound, like the hi-pass filter and the LFO shaper, which allow you to switch between sine, square, sawtooth, and reverse sawtooth. You can also trigger the envelope follower using external sources.
• Presets:
  This release provides you with 28 presets, which are all excellent for different textures, and you can switch between three modulation sources: LFO, ENV (including internal and external), and manual, or try different combinations of them.

Compatibility:

Supports Windows 8.1 and higher, Supports macOS 10.13 or higher, runs on 64 bit, and comes in VST2, VST3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Flanger BL-20 is an excellent emulation of the original hardware that takes the best out of the analog version and its digital recreation. It sounds great and gives you plenty of tweaking possibilities to get the best of your creativity going.

Related Reading:

Top 14 Arturia Plugins For Musicians 

16. D16 Fazortan (Phaser)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

With the Fazortan 2 plugin from the D16 Group, you can get tunes in the style of the godfather of electronic music, Jean-Michel Jarre.

The Polish company D16 Group has long had a positive reputation in the music software market. They produce beautiful plugins with incredible sound quality. On their website, you can find virtual instruments like synthesizers and drum machines, effects like chorus, reverb, distortion, delay, flanger, and all that kind of stuff. They are all based on professional studio equipment.

The Fazortan 2 plugin is part of the SilverLine Collection products. It simulates the operation of an analog phaser and replicates its characteristics completely. But in addition to the analog sound, you also get a bunch of other features that help you be more creative.

Key Features:

• Works in a Variety of Waveforms
  Perhaps this is the main feature that distinguishes it from its analog prototype. You will have a choice of waves, including random, hyper-triangle, triangle, and sinus.
• Control two LFOs
  You will be able to use two LFOs at the same time. An endless variety of stretch contours will open up for you.
• Rotating Speaker
  You can also adjust the sound of the plugin to the same rotating speaker effect. It will be especially interesting for experimentation guitarists and keyboard players. In doing so, they will get the juiciest sound.
• Suitable for all Genres
  The developers assure that the plugin is suitable for both old-school and modern music. And you can use it for any instrument.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for Windows 7 or higher (32 or 64-bit) and macOS 10.7 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Fazortan 2 is a phono plugin from D16 that will give you the highest quality vintage sound. You will have control over two LFOs with the ability to change the waves of each. As a result, you can get unusual sounds. This software is versatile and can suit different genres and musical instruments.

Related Reading:

Top 7 D16 Group Plugins For Music Production

17. Kilohearts Convolver Snapin (Convolution Reverb)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Snapins are effect plugins belonging to Kilohearts’ growing ecosystem of instruments and effect processors.

You can use Snapins in many host plugins by Kilohearts, such as Multipass band-splitter and Phaseplant, a powerful modular synthesizer. This concept makes Kilohearts’ plugins some of the most powerful ones available today. That said, you can also use Snapins separately in your DAW.

If you use Kilohearts’ host plugins, you’ll also find all your presets built in them in your standalone Snapins.

Convolver is a convolution effect processor that uses impulse response (IR) to generate various types of effects, including reverb. An impulse response is a recording of a loud click in a specific location or passed through one or a series of hardware gear.

So, you could create an impulse response of your guitar amp, vintage effect units, and filters alongside strange locations like a pipe. Import them into Convolver, and it emulates the effect instantly.

Key Features:

• IR Editor
  Convolver provides various features that allow you to edit the impulse response audio sample non-destructively. You can change the start and end position of the audio sample. And you can add a fade-in or fade-out. Furthermore, the stretch parameter lets you adjust the length of the audio sample, a handy feature when you want to reduce the reverb length. Similarly, the reverse button changes the playback direction of the sample, producing creative sounds.
• Sample Library
  Convolver features a built-in sample library with over three hundred impulse response files. These include a variety of locations like churches, cathedrals, halls, rooms, outdoor places, etc., and digital reverbs. You’ll also find other types of IRs like amp cabinets, effect units, etc. However, the main concept of this Snapin is to use custom IR samples from the internet or even random audio files. You never know what such wild experiments could bring!
• Other Features
  The plugin lets you change the pre-delay in milliseconds or fractions of beats. Similarly, the tone knob controls the brightness of the wet sound, and the feedback parameter feeds the processed output back into the convolution engine. It can create echoes, longer reverbs, or a “reverb freeze” effect. And finally, the mix knob lets you control the dry and wet signals.

Compatibility:

Convolver is available for Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.6 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Convolution is one of the preferred ways to generate a realistic reverb effect. It can capture the exact sound of a specific hall from a particular position of listening and reproduce the experience using mathematical processing.

Most other convolution effects provide a large collection of built-in impulse responses. And while Convolver does come with over three hundred IR samples, it maintains modesty to lower its price. So, if you want a high-quality, straightforward convolution effect that can load custom samples, Convolver is an ideal choice.

18. Newfangled Audio EQuivocate (Graphic EQ)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Equivocate is a precise graphic EQ with MEL spectrum distribution and Match EQ functionality.

This plugin is a simple yet highly detailed tool perfect for both mixing and mastering. There are 26 bands in total, where you can draw curves by simply dragging your mouse across. Of course, you can also edit an individual band at a time.

Similarly, Equivocate also features an automatic gain compensation post EQ to keep the level of your audio consistent. Furthermore, it features presets from various artists like Richard Devine, Jeremy Lubsey, John McCaig, etc., to help get you started.

Key Features:

• Match EQ
  Equivocate features an EQ tone matching feature that allows you to shape the sound of your audio to a sidechain input. You could use it during mastering to match with your reference tracks or even during mixing if two of your audio recordings sound different due to mic placements/different hardware. Similarly, you could also use it to match a previous project’s audio by simply importing the audio into your current project and routing it into the EQ as a sidechain. Doing so can be a huge time saver for mastering albums.
• Customizable Bands
  Another exciting feature is that you can adjust the frequency of each band in this plugin, which is generally unavailable in graphic EQs. However, Equivocate still uses the same filter shape despite the customized frequencies, providing equal efficiency as the default MEL-based bands. In addition, you can also add or remove the bands as needed, with the maximum being 26 bands.
• Linear Phase
  Equivocate functions in linear phase mode to ensure artifact-free performance. So, you could use this plugin for mastering as the primary EQ as well.
• Solo Bands
  You can solo a single or multiple bands in this plugin. Just hold down Ctrl while clicking on the solo buttons at the top of each band to solo multiple bands simultaneously. This feature lets you know which frequency you are manipulating without having to sweep it around.

Compatibility:

Equivocate is available for Windows 8 or higher 32-bit or 64-bit and macOS 10.9 or higher 64-bit. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

With Equivocate, EQing is never a hit or miss. For example, you can listen to each band by soloing it, make sure it is the correct one, and modify it. To add further to the convenience offered, its human hearing-based triangular filters will perform as expected every time. The GUI can be a little strange for the first-timer, but it’s super easy to get used to.

19. Three-Body Technology Kirchhoff-EQ (Dynamic EQ)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

The ultimate modern-looking parametric EQ plugin available nowadays.

Equalizers can be taunting to master properly, as they can inflict strange results in the process of tailoring the effect itself. One wrong twist or turn in a specific bandwidth, and your sound can go to crap instantly. This is one thing that Kirchhoff-EQ nails, and it’s all due to the incredible ease of use to set any parameters properly. 

Key Features:

• • Great processing
    The tweaks you make inside the plugin will be reflected automatically in your sound, as expected. The incredible number of options and parameters to adjust can be overwhelming, but almost assuredly, it won’t be a problem to be loaded properly. If you use a 64-bit system, then you don’t need to worry about any lagging or slow-performance issues because Kirchhoff-EQ was tailored to work with 64-bits, independent of the DAW’s current working precision. If that’s not enough, you can also activate the “Double Double” mode to use 117 bits in total, with ultra-precision to deliver demanding results.
  • Filter types
    There are 15 filter types included in this EQ, with the most common shapes included – like low pass, high pass, and notch, for instance – and also some unusual ones, such as the “Sword” (kind of like a bell shape, but with a sharper slope) and brick wall low and high pass.
  • Phase modes
    You can set the phase in your track between some unique modes, such as “zero-latency,” “analogue,” “linear,” and “mixed.” However, if the “Dynamic Functions” option is activated for a specific filter band, it will work on a minimum-phase mode that won’t affect other bands besides the one you’re currently working on.
  • Unique threshold adjustment
    The threshold is usually the control that sets the “limit” upon which an effect can act upon. Most options only go one way, but in Kirchhoff-EQ, things are done differently. You can have a two-way threshold control to configure simultaneously the part of your signal acting above or below the threshold mark. With this, you can raise the audio signal below the threshold mark and compress the same signal above that same mark, for instance.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for macOS 10.9 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It runs in VST2, VST3, AAX, and AU plugin formats.

Summary:

Colorful EQs are inviting to mess with, mostly because they most assuredly will be utterly responsive to your tweaks. Kirchhoff-EQ works just like that, but with surprising features that can add up to its usage and make it truly unique if compared to similar plugins.

The two-way threshold and the multiple filter types are not mandatory elements to be included in an equalizer, but they are surprisingly effective in making it even more versatile.

Related Reading:

Top 14 Mastering Plugins For All Categories

20. PSP oldTimer Multiband Compressor (Multiband Compressor)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Or Buy Here (Support Integraudio)

A simplistic, vintage-styled multiband compressor from 2010, the PSP oldTimerMB is still one of the universal favorites.

What differs this plugin from the rest on our list is that it’s designed to look and sound like a vintage analog multiband compressor. Users of the PSP oldTimerME compressor will instantly recognize the musically colored sound of this plugin. There are only three bands in this multiband compressor. However, don’t let the single-page, minimalistic layout throw you off — this plugin packs several modern features up its sleeves.

Key Features:

• Analog Sound
  Being a vintage compressor, the character of the sound, of course, is the biggest feature of this plugin. The compressors themselves have a distinctive sound, but PSP has also added a Valve amp feature. It is essentially a slight tube saturation, which gives some thickness to the body and character to the high frequencies. You can turn the valve amp on and off, and you can also adjust how much drive you want. Adding to the analog sound is the automatic release function as well. There are two kinds of auto releases, one of which is designed to emulate an analog release.
• Stereo Control
  Each band has a Width knob, which lets you turn the band mono or wide using stereo enhancements. It is great for adding some stereo width to the mid and high frequencies 0f your mix bus while keeping the low frequencies mono. Similarly, this plugin also has a mid/side mode, which offers even more control over how you want your stereo field to sound.
• Nostalgic GUI
  The vintage look gives the plugin an air of class. PSP has also made the GUI resizable using the option found at the top left. Despite having several knobs, the plugin is quite self-explanatory and should pose no issue in quickly getting up to speed.
• Multiple Slopes
  The crossover slopes of the three bands can be adjusted as well. There are three options available: first, second, and fourth-order. The first is the most gentle and the fourth is the steepest. We would have loved to see each band having its own slope adjustment, but the one provided modifies all of the bands at the same time.
• Presets
  oldTimerMB offers 87 premade presets great for mixing as well as for mastering:

Compatibility:

The PSP oldTimerMB is available for Windows 7 or higher at both 32-bit and 64-bit and for macOS 10.8 – 10.15 or later at both 32-bit and 64-bit. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, AAX, and RTAS formats.

Summary:

If you are a fan of the look and sound of vintage, analog products, then this plugin is one of the best available in the market. The stereo width control, mid/side, and crossover slope selection give the classic multiband compressor a modern touch.

Related Reading:

Top 9 PSP Audioware Plugins For Music Production 

21. Empirical Labs Mike-E Comp By Softube (Analog Compressor, Saturator, Preamp)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Or Buy Here (Support Integraudio)

An all-in-one solution for the basic audio production needs.

Plugins that contain different effects and uses inside a single window are awesome and can be the perfect tool for most production styles. It’s nice to have all you’ll need in a single window, which can lead to significantly less CPU power consumption.

Empirical Labs Mike-E Comp was created in collaboration with Dave Derr to simulate the versatility behind the ELI distressor and provide meaningful colorations to your track.

Key Features:

• • Preamp
    The “Preamp” section offers up to 18dB of gain boost, and it can be used to gain stage your track with the authentic character of a hardware unit. You can even disable the preamp distortion with the “Clean” option, while the “Bad!” indicator will force clipping whenever possible.
  • CompSat
    One of the main sections of the plugin is called “CompSat,” and is arguably the heart of Mike-E. It works the same way as a distressor, but with additions like a longer attack time and additional emphasis circuit. Of course, the “Drive” knob will add any distortion values promptly, with the nearby LEDs indicating the amount of saturation added to your signal.
  • Emphasis
    The “Emphasis” parameter is divided between three modes: “HF” emphasizes the high frequencies in the saturation circuit, “HF2” does the same but in the entire CompSat circuit, and LF enhances the lower frequencies in the compressor circuit. Switching between these profiles can make the plugin sound warmer and “creamier,” displaying a nice tape-like tone.
  • Extended features
    As with other Softube plugins, Empirical Labs Mike-E Comp also offers extended features. These can bring nice parameters to complement the already included ones, expanding its functionality and making the overall response of this effect to be much more modern and precise, just like plugins are expected to.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for macOS 10.13 to 12 (64-bit only) and Windows 10 or higher (64-bit only). It runs in VST, VST3, and AU plugin formats.

Summary:

Softube always brings exciting software that will certainly improve or add character to your tracks. And besides being a recreation of studio equipment, Empirical Labs Mike-E Comp is a nice plugin to have constantly around.

The saturation quality is superb, with subtle nuances that only the genuine or any tube unit could deliver. The different segments are interlinked and behave well if added jointly, making this a versatile and consistent audio-shaping tool.

22. FabFilter Pro-L2 (Limiter)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

FabFilter’s Pro-L 2 is a versatile tool suited for all music genres for either mixing or mastering.

Each of the plugin’s styles offers different transparency and punch levels. You can go from clear-sounding to extreme pump just by changing the algorithm. Additionally, the advanced controls allow the necessary fine-tuning to avoid any artifacts.

Key Features:

• Real-Time Level Display
  Here, you can visualize how your audio’s being processed. It’s great to help you decide which attack and release values to use.
• Limiting Styles
  The eight algorithms available make limiting highly straightforward. They are program-dependent, which means they’ll adapt to the input signal while still preserving their character.
• Lookahead
  This knob will help shape the limiter’s attack. Lower values can cause a clipping effect, while higher values will generate superb gain reduction.
• Channel Linking
  If you want to process each track independently in a stereo file, you can do so by unlinking the channels. This will make the limiter work as two separate units instead of being a single limiter for both channels.
• Unity Gain Output
  By clicking the “1:1” button at the output menu in the lower bar, you’ll activate the Unity Gain function. This will lower the output volume by the same amount that you raise the input gain, keeping the resulting sound always at the same level. It’s great to help you hear and fine-tune the limiting without the extra volume.
• Surround Mode
  You can go up to 7.1.2 Dolby Atmos, and the interface will automatically adapt to the extra channels.
• Presets
  The Pro-L2’s selection of built-in presets offers limiting options for most musical genres in comprehensible categories.

Character & Sound:

FabFilter’s Pro-L2 can add some character to your sound, especially in the Punchy and Aggressive algorithms. Otherwise, the plugin sounds clear and artifact-free. Moreover, the up to 32x oversampling eliminates distortion and aliasing, while the True Peak technology avoids digital clipping. When it comes to professional transparency, this is one of the more advanced plugins in the market.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for Windows XP and higher and macOS 10.8 or newer in VST, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary: 

The Pro-L2 is a professional-grade limiting solution for every mixing and mastering engineer. The extensive metering section lets you hear and tailor your sound to your needs. The different display modes are a bit distracting, but nothing that you can’t turn off. Overall this is a go-to limiter for every occasion.

Related Reading:

Top 10 FabFilter Plugins For Mixing & Mastering 

23. Slate Digital FG-DS Model 902 (De-Esser)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Or Buy Here (Support Integraudio)

Inspired by classic hardware, this is one of the best de-esser plugins available today.

Slate Digital is one of the best music production software and hardware companies in the world. They never cease to offer great products in their line, and the Virtual Mix Rack bundle does just that. One of the modules included, entitled FG-DS Model 902, is the digital rendition of the iconic dbx 902 de-esser unit that came out in the 1980s.

Key Features:

• • Mix control
    Unlike the original unit, FG-DS Model 902 offers a “Mix” knob that blends the dry and wet signals. This is an easy way to add a subtle quantity of this effect to your track without making it sound too unrealistic.
  • Frequency knob
    The bright, yellow knob is the most important command in FG-DS Model 902. In essence, it sets the necessary frequency bands for processing the effect, but only if the “HF ONLY” mode is enabled – otherwise, the plugin will apply the gain reduction to the entire spectrum, not just the higher frequencies.
  • Range
    The “Range” knob sets the maximum gain reduction range for de-essing, measured in dB. If you need a quick setting that works in almost any subtle situation, the “Norm” range indicates the perfect zone to do that.
  • Listen mode
    When in “HF ONLY” mode, you can use an extra option from the “Frequency” knob: the “Listen” mode, which allows the user to monitor only the removed sibilance from your track. The small “click” symbol can be engaged for instant activation of the “Listen” mode as soon as you set the “Frequency” knob to any desired value. 

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for macOS 10.13 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 8 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST2, VST 3, AAX, and AU plugin formats. 

Summary:

FG-DS Model 902 is another great rendition of an important audio gear from the past. The dbx 902 is considered, to this day, one of the best de-esser units ever produced, and Slate Digital could capture the best aspects about it and translate that to the digital realm.

Added features, such as the “Mix” knob, are useful and help keep the effect relevant to modern productions while retaining the same characteristics as the vintage unit.

24. Slate Digital MetaTune (AutoTune)

More Info & Price (Trial Available, Dongle Required)

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Meta-Tune is a simple auto-tuner and pitch correction plugin that is great for more ‘modern’ genres of music such as Electronic or Hip-Hop.

The easy-to-use interface gives you basic controls that have enormous impact and are bound to save you time in the mixdown. There certainly are more advanced and powerful plugins out there, but this one boasts simplicity with mixed results at a reasonable price.

Key Features:

• User-friendly Design and Interface
  Meta Tune offers a highly user-friendly design paired with simple yet effective controls, allowing you to get editing in seconds. By adjusting the speed, sustain, and amount parameters, you can vary the result of your moves from a natural sound to a more robotic fx sound. Use the built-in keys and scales features to select your range quickly. You can also see where the vocals are hitting from the incoming signal of Heatmaps. Additionally, you can see where the outgoing signal is hitting, which means you can also see the level of pitch adjustment.
• Negative Speed Processing
  The negative speeds function refers to note detection and pitch correction timing. Essentially, it controls the speed at which tuning happens in the transitions between keys. Setting the ‘speed’ control beyond 0, you get into the negative speed region where Meta Tune’s unique algorithm kicks in. Designed to help the vocals pop against the rest of the instruments and note changes, it’s easy to use and can get you some fascinating results.
• Groups Function
  The ‘groups’ function is handy when working with a lot of vocal tracks in a mix. It allows you to link whichever other instances of Meta Tune you have in your session for multi-track editing. For example, you could connect your background vocals in a group and simultaneously make adjustments that affect the entire group. Grouping is a considerable time saver and a great perk that alleviates a ton of individual adjustments or copy-pasting automation.
• Note Stabilizing
  This feature has different settings to choose from, which will determine how much stabilization occurs. By employing this feature, you can eliminate the need to open up a graphic editor and manipulate problem areas by hand. By selecting Long, Mid, or Short, you can decide which instance sounds best for the type of music you’re editing. Long allows the singer’s natural vibrato to remain present, whereas the Mid and Short instances adjust faster and more in tune with the desired notes.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for Windows 8 or higher and macOS 10.12 or higher. It comes in VST, VST3, AU, and AAX formats.

Important Note: Ilok USB dongle required.

Summary:

If vocals are your focus and simplicity is what you’re after, then Meta Tune is an excellent pick for you. Additionally, if you’re on a budget and can’t afford some of the high-end programs, it’s worth checking out.

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25. Arturia Delay MEMORY-BRIGADE (Bucket Brigade Delay)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

As a final plugin for this list, we will look at Memory Brigade by Arturia. This plugin represents the digital version of the pedalboard pedal, which has been beloved by many musicians, especially guitarists. It packs the same package as the pedal version, only now available in your DAW. With its many features, this plugin has earned to be a part of our list. 

The interface of this plugin is almost a replica of the pedal version but it features some great additions. As you can see it is divided into two sections. The top section is almost the same as the pedal version while the bottom section of the plugin is the addition to it. On the top, you can fiddle around with the delay timings and type of the delay.

The “Input Level” knob is there to adjust the volume of the signal pre plugin. Next to it, we have left and right delays. This part of the plugin can be changed by switching to the “Delay Mode” switch. Each time you flip this switch, you will have more ways to adjust your delay timing and location, and presence in the mix. 

This is unique when it comes to the delay plugins. Obviously, you will not be able to do this on a pedal version of the Memory-Brigade. 

The stereo offset knob is there to work, sort of like a pan for the delay. You can choose on which side you would like to hear more of the delay effect. This will have a much better result if you add some of the stereo width.

Another great thing about this plugin is that it introduces the chorus and vibrato, which you can choose between by simple turn of the switch.

You can control how much you want this effect to be present by dialing the Amount knob. Echo Level is there as a volume control for the delay. You have the blend dial underneath it, which serves as a Mix control.

Memory-Brigade features three devices in the extension: LFO, Envelope follower, and input equalization. With input equalization, you can have a high pass or low pass filter, depending on how you adjust the knobs. The envelope follower is where this plugin gets creative.

You can connect it with any of the parameters of this plugin which can leave you with some great-sounding results. The LFO works in the same way. You can connect it to any parameter on the interface, adjust the effect with shape and rate, and sync it with the tempo of the song. 

While the Memory-Brigade was primarily made for guitarists, you can see its usage on other instruments such as synths or vocals. It is available on Windows and macOS as a standalone version and in VST, VST3, AAX, AU, and NKS formats. The price of this plugin today is $99.

Related Reading:

Top 14 Arturia Plugins For Musicians 2022

26. Xfer LFO Tool (Sidechain Tool)

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

 

The Xfer LFO device is a comprehensive tool that gives you a vast selection of signal shaping options.

This plugin is very well suited to low-frequency instruments such as synth bass. The user interface is quite intricate and might be intimidating for those without basic knowledge of LFO’s function. 

Key Features:

• Customizable LFO Editor
  The LFO editor lets you draw in your volume automation onto an x-y grid mapping, which you then apply to your signal. The editor allows you to link their programmed automation to affect things like the volume level, stereo panning, or filter parameters.
• Modulation Layering
  The interface allows you to control up to 4 graphs at the same time. This is handy when your want to create different modulation patterns for the same signal. For example, you might want the volume to open up while the filter’s cutoff is being brought down. 
• Smooth Setting
  You can use the Smooth parameter to soften the punchiness of any peaks in the volume automation. Volume ducking can either be enhanced or dulled with this setting, giving you better control of signal dynamics while processing. 
• MIDI-CC output routing
  The LFO Tool comes with a midi out option. This feature converts any modulations that you have programmed and converts them into CC information. You can then route this information to an external digital or analog device like a synthesizer or sampler and affect its output accordingly. 

Compatibility:

This plugin is available in VST or AU formats for Windows7 and above users and Mac OS 10.12 or later.

Summary:

The Xfer LFO Tool is an incredibly diverse tool to have on hand when creating meticulous signal modulations. One of its significant advantages is the fact that its modulation controls reach further than just volume automation. You can also choose to have your modulations quantized to a grid, or you can manually set the rate.

Over 100 LFO presets are available, giving you a dizzying amount of starting points to select from when shaping their sounds. The sidechaining presets allow you to create a volume ducking effect without routing anything in as an auxiliary signal.