Top 6 IK Multimedia Plugins For Various Categories 2023
1. Modo Bass 2 (Bass Guitar)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Modo Bass 2 is a bass plugin by IK Multimedia. It’s considered one of the most versatile and detailed virtual bass plugins.
Modo Bass 2 is all about realism and authenticity. This is precisely why it’s been able to build the reputation of one of the most realistic virtual bass instruments. The bass sounds included are not sampled but generated using ground-breaking modal synthesis technology that models the entire process of playing bass.
Key Features:
- 22 models
Modo Bass 2 includes the 14 models from the original version plus eight new ones. You can select between a Fretless Jazz model, Fretless Bass Man, Studio Upright, Horn Bass, Punk Bass, and Fusion J-Bass, to mention a few. The models are diverse enough to cover a wide variety of genres, from Reggae and Funk to Rock and Blues. - Deep control
You can choose between 32 different pickup models, apart from choosing the bass model. Some of the features you can adjust on the pickup are the single coil, slot (neck/bridge), position, and circuit (passive/active/piezo). Finally, you can modify and tweak the strings in-depth. You can choose the number of strings, gauge and age, scale, and tuning. The number of possible combinations and unique sounds is infinite. - Playing styles and patterns
Something that adds to the sophistication and detailed build of Modo Bass 2 is the ability to choose different playing styles. You can choose between fingerstyle, slapping, picking, and muting. In addition, muting can be applied to all the rest of the playing styles. You can also choose to go fretless; something IK Multimedia ensures no other bass plugin can offer. Finally, the patterns section helps you craft playable patterns that fit any song style. You can audition any pattern quickly and locate your ideal one by scrolling through a menu organized by genre, length, time signature, and song section. - Adjust the mic
Inside the mics section, you can fine-tune and blend different mics to create the perfect bass tone for your track. You can choose from a selection of moveable mics to capture your sound, blend in a piezo signal to add focus and space, send the signal through stomps and amps for extra character and harmonic complexity, and add the ideal amount of space by blending in stereo mics. - Effects
Modo Bass includes seven stompbox effects and two bass amplifiers to control the overall sound and tone. Each amp gives you control over the gain structure with a graphic EQ. The effects page includes a distortion, octaver, chorus, compressor, delay, and graphic EQ. The effects are excellent in complementing the bass tone and are always helpful and functional.
Compatibility:
Modo Bass 2 is available on Windows and macOS in VST, AAX, and AU formats.
Summary:
Modo Bass 2 is probably the most detailed and expressive bass plugin on the market. The amount of control over the bass models, pickups, strings, playing styles, patterns, and even effects is mind-boggling. Having said that, I believe this is a potent tool best used by experienced or advanced producers.
Related Reading:
9 Best Bass Guitar Plugins (And 2 Best Freebies)
2. T-RackS TEAC A-3340S
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
The TEAC A-3340S models Tascam’s first 4-track recorder that permitted overdubbing in sync.
This one, along with another three plugins that we’ll also review later in this list, is part of IK Multimedia’s collection of classic TASCAM models developed in conjunction with the original manufacturer. The TEAC A-3340S is the most straightforward of the four plugins included in this collection, with an interactive, self-explaining graphic interface.
This plugin is a great one to use in individual tracks as it used the earlier analog piece. In addition, the model includes an auto-calibration feature, which is great if you’re new to this analog world and looking to start adding these textures and colors to make your tracks sound more interesting.
Key Features:
- Time saver:
Since TEAC A-3340S is so easy to use, it only takes a moment to achieve great results and keep moving forward. In addition, this plugin’s interface is convenient because it doesn’t have much to tweak at first sight and sounds great on its own. - Intuitive controls:
This plugin is straightforward to learn because you only get a few controls to play around with. Furthermore, each one of these controls makes an audible difference in the output, so you can hear what they do and get to a setting that works in no time. - The improvement formula:
You can quickly improve the sound according to the source only by selecting one of the four tape formulations. Minimize or maximize distortion and input levels, or achieve an excellent balance and warmth, depending on your selection. - Auto-calibration:
Unlike many other plugins, you don’t need to be an expert engineer or spend hours making sense of complicated calibration settings. Instead, focus only on what matters with this plugin, regardless of your level of experience with these tools.
Compatibility:
IK Multimedia’s TEAC A-3340S 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:
IK Multimedia’s TEAC A-3340S model is a great addition to your toolkit if you want to start adding some analog flavor to your mixes and don’t care as much about the technicalities of how it works.
If you’re already familiar with this type of software is even better because you probably know what you’re looking for, and this plugin can get you there real quick. This is an efficient and good-sounding model overall.
Related Reading:
20 Best Tape Emulation Plugins (Real Hardware Emulations)
3. IK Multimedia T-Racks Mic Room
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Similar to Antares’ MicMod, IK Multimedia’s Mic Room is a microphone modeling plug-in that allows you to adjust the tone of your recording to emulate the tone of another microphone.
Compared to MicMod, Mic Room offers a modest selection of microphones for modeling. However, it does perform just as well. Outside of the modeling and tone controls, the plug-in.
In addition, if you are an apple user, you can use the software on the go since IK offers an app for iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch.
Key Features:
- Selection of Modelled Microphones
Up to 20 microphones are available for modeling. The mobile version only includes 9 of those 20 without any additional purchase. However, the mobile app is free. The 20 microphones offered include microphones from AKG, Electro-voice, Neumann, Shure, Royer, and others. - Proximity & Saturation Control
Besides filtering the tone according to the chosen microphone, you can control how much bass boost occurs through the proximity dial. You can also saturate the signal to add more harmonics to the recording for a grittier or brighter tone. - iRig Support
Mic Room is designed to be paired with IK Multimedia’s range of iRig microphones and other IK microphones and interfaces. So if you are a musician on the go, it can be a handy tool.
Compatibility:
The plug-in supports Windows 7 and higher and Mac OS 10.15 and higher, both 64-bit only. Also, it supports VST 2, VST3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Like MicMod, IK’s Mic Room is a great option for streamlining the mixing process by filtering audio quicker to find that ideal tone within a mix. However, this plug-in is by no means a shortcut. If the audio you are working with isn’t recorded well, Mic Room won’t fix it.
Related Reading:
Top 9 Mic Plugins (Waves, UAD, Antares, IK Multimedia…)
4. IK Multimedia – Hammond B-3X
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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 Organ VST Plugins (For Musicians & Worship)
5. IK Multimedia Miroslav Philharmonik 2 (Plugin)
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A fully-featured symphonic workstation with its own built-in DAW included in the package.
Miroslav Philarmonik 2 is a ground-breaking vision from a master artist incorporated into a brand new virtual instrument that can help you with any orchestral arrangements. All instruments were performed with the best musicians possible to ensure the overall quality.
Everything is gathered in a single display that should take care of your regular needs, such as leveling each instrument and adding whichever effects you’d like. The interface, by the way, resembles a friendly digital audio workstation that gives you access to every section or single instrument among the various included.
Key Features:
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- Synth engine
Can you imagine running an entire orchestra through a synthesizer? Well, that’s entirely possible now. Accessing the “Edit” mode will unveil a section with multiple controllers to adjust your tone better, but the unusual thing is to have a synth with three different sampling engines and ten filters that can be used to shape and transform your sound. You can set the perfect and most audacious sounds right away and expand your creative needs once and for all. - Multiple FXs
There’s a considerable number of effects present in Miroslav Philarmonik 2. All of the 34 options are from the acclaimed SampleTank 3 plugin, including five equalizers, four dynamic processors, seven filters, nine modulation effects, and nine reverb and delay effects. They’re all very versatile and easy to use, allowing for professional productions to be created instantly. - SampleTank integration
Without any additional installations or conversions, MP2 can work with SampleTank 3 for coherent integration into your existing music production workflow. You can manage and edit every sample the way you want to in a simple and effective user interface. The T-RackS features are also included, especially in all processing effects present. - Macros editing
Deriving from the SampleTank 3 integration, the macros editing provides eight of the most critical controls that could be present in a software such as this: “Expression,” “Attack,” “Release,” “Cutoff,” “Start,” “Low,” “Mid,” and “High” knobs are there to be tweaked in any instrument and suit its sound in your production.
- Synth engine
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 VST2, VST 3, AAX, and AU plugin formats and also runs in standalone mode.
Summary:
Aside from the excellent quality of each sample, Miroslav Philarmonik 2 is a tremendous symphonic tool because of its interface. Of course, you can run it in standalone mode, but the thing is that every tweak you make resembles a lot of the workflow in an authentic DAW.
So feel free to add effects, edit every single instrument, and even run everything through a synth engine with this brilliant IK Multimedia software.
Related Reading:
Top 12 Orchestral VST Plugins & Kontakt Libraries (+ FREE Plugins)
6. T-Racks Tape Machine 99 By IK Multimedia
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
This unit models the RevoxPR99, an analog tape recorder that became popular for its fidelity and linear response.
The RevoxPR99 was a reel-to-reel tape recorder. The Revox PR99 was a popular choice for recording studios and live music performances in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Though it has since been discontinued, the PR99 still enjoys a cult following among audiophiles and collectors due to its exceptional sound quality.
The unique design of the PR99’s record head allowed it to capture a wider frequency range than other cassette tape recorders of its era, resulting in better sound reproduction.
The Tape Machine 99 portends to mimic the exact behavior of its physical counterpart with a combination of convolution and physical modeling techniques used by IK Multimedia to model this legendary tape machine.
Key Features:
- Familiarity:
Like many other products from IK Multimedia, the set of controls and layout is planned to be almost identical to other similar plugins from the manufacturer. It’s easy to navigate and practical to pay more attention to its sound instead of its settings. - Subtlety is the brand:
This plugin is perfect for an impressively subtle reaction and coloration. This plugin is perfect for mastering situations and mixing scenarios where you need to stick to the natural tone of an instrument, like mixing a jazz saxophone, for example. Sounds natural with a little touch of magic in the high-mids.
Compatibility:
Tape Machine 99 is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.9 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Tape Machine 99 is another ambitious analog tape model by IK Multimedia. It does pretty much what you’d expect. The original unit was well known for its outstandingly linear response, and must I say, IKM nailed it with that, for sure.
It’s a plugin thought for advanced users who either have used the analog peer to record or advanced users who understand how the process works. It’s freakishly transparent to a point where you really have to try to listen.
Related Reading:
Top 6 Tape Stop Plugins You Can Get (Free & Paid)
Bonus:
IK Multimedia T-Racks Bus Compressor
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
IK Multimedia T-Racks Bus Compressor is inspired by the mix bus VCA-type compressor from a renowned British mixing console of the ’80s, with added enhancements.
It is a module within the T-RackS CS “Custom Shop” Mixing and Mastering Plug-In Collection. The compressor is known for its transparent and character-enhancing qualities, particularly suitable for drums and bass. It offers high-quality oversampling, precise digital processing, and versatility within the T-RackS CS Standalone application and as a plugin.
The T-Racks Bus Compressor is favored for its ability to deliver polished, professional sound across genres like House, Pop, Hip-Hop, and more. Sonically, it is also known for its ability to add punch and power to tracks or full mixes, with a focus on achieving commercial loudness while maintaining dynamics.
Key Features:
- Side-chain
The Sidechain Hi-pass filter in the plugin allows you to avoid the undesirable low-end pumping effect that can result from high ratio and low threshold configurations. Despite being a fresh feature, it aligns with the original unit’s design, featuring predefined values and curves. Four frequency choices—60, 150, 250, and 500 Hz—are available, enabling focused adjustment on the lower frequencies and low-mids. - Mid-Side Processing
This T-Racks enhancement introduces another dimension to this highly sought-after bus compressor. Operating in Mid-Side mode facilitates distinct compressions for each channel. By toggling the switch below the prominent RESET button, you can establish independent settings for each channel. You can also compress it in L/R or multi-mono modes. - Gritty sonic characteristics
Also developed as a new addition, this feature amplifies the plugin’s inherent character to emphasize harmonic distortion. It operates subtly but aims to replicate the behavior of imperfectly calibrated hardware—a quality sought after in specific scenarios. - Versatile and modern-sounding
T-Racks suit a wide array of musical genres and excels even with delicate styles like Acoustic or Classical. It successfully marries the original unit’s sonic attributes with contemporary adaptability, substantially expanding its potential applications. - “Gluing” effect
Accurate measurements from individual components to compression curves, soft knee response, and detection circuitry have been applied on this compressor behind the scenes. That ensures an exact replication that imparts a sense of unity to mixes, often recognized as the “glue effect.” This effect harmoniously blends each instrument, transforming mixed tracks into a cohesive musical composition.
That ensures that all synths, drums, bass, etc., in your house mixes sound cohesive with each other and individually. - Attractive interface
The black-greyish skin of the compressor gives the right feel. Other than that, it has a dB meter, LUFS scale, Peak, RMS, and Direct Reduction readings, and L/R stereo volume scale for monitoring the plugin. Lastly, with parameters like Ratio, Attack, Release, Threshold, Makeup gain, Sidechain hi-pass, and Grit button, you can easily tweak things around and set the effect as per your liking.
Compatibility:
The T-Rack Bus Compressor is available as a 64-bit VST2, VST3, AAX, and AU plugin for Windows 7 and up and macOS 10.9 or newer.
Summary:
The Bus Compressor is a lovely plugin to have around, especially if you’re mixing more commercial genres like Pop and Hip-Hop. Using it on the master track will give your sound that polished, professional feel for which most of us are looking. That is an excellent plugin that will sit perfectly in your collection.
Shaurya Bhatia, is an Indian Music Producer, Composer, Rapper & Performer, who goes by the stage name MC SNUB, and is also 1/2 of the Indian pop music duo, called “babyface”. A certified Audio Engineer & Music Producer, and a practicing musician & rapper for more than 6 years, Shaurya has worked on projects of various genres and has also been a teaching faculty at Spin Gurus DJ Academy.