Today we’ll learn more about the top Mellotron plugins trending in 2023.
The Mellotron is a unique instrument heavily used in multiple hit songs throughout the decades. It was conceived in the early 1960s in Birmingham, England, and the main feature is that the instrument is based on tape loops that are activated whenever a key is pressed.
The revolutionary aspect of this beautiful instrument soon caught the attention of multiple artists, most famously The Beatles. You can hear the sweet Mellotron tones in classics such as “Strawberry Fields Forever” and “Flying,” as well as in other band’s classics, like The Rolling Stones’ “She’s A Rainbow” and King Crimson’s “In The Court Of The Crimson King.”
It’s hard to get your hands on a vintage unit, and there are plenty of models to choose from. Nonetheless, these developers have done a fantastic job replicating this classic sound. As a result, we’re proud to present the top six Mellotron virtual instrument plugins in 2023, with some extra freebies and bonus options at the end of our list.
Top 6 Mellotron Plugins 2023 (New & Old Picks)
1. Arturia Mellotron
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
The classic Mellotron sound was successfully recreated in this virtual instrument plugin.
Arturia has been a fan-favorite company for quite some time now. Its products are amazingly developed in both software and hardware format. In addition, the developer’s team always brings excellent results in clear, concise interface designs that make the entire music production experience easier and funnier than ever.
Key Features:
-
- True Analog Emulation
As in many other Arturia products, Mellotron counts on their trademark True Analog Emulation, or TAE for short. In essence, it’s an innovative collection of algorithms and scripts that makes the instrument emulation much more realistic than usual, capturing the true vintage essence of these units. - Tempo sync
If your track requires a BPM synchronization with your virtual instrument, Mellotron has the appropriate setting to do so easily. You can quickly adjust this inside the plugin’s user interface, which will automatically sync with whatever BPM value your DAW project sets. - Automation
Most producers rely heavily on automation to automatically change specific parameters throughout the song. This can be useful to make certain Mellotron parts stand out in specific moments, and gladly all parameters inside this virtual instrument can be automated seamlessly. - Sample editing window
Below the main instrument overview, you’ll find a dedicated sample editing window in the lower section of your user design interface screen. Here you can define aspects such as the sample’s starting and ending points, specific loop points, and adjust other parameters like gain and panning. - Stretch mode
Sometimes the original Mellotron unit would present variations in specific effects alongside the recorded notes. For example, the vibrato configuration could be different from one note to another, as they were recorded separately. To fix this, Arturia included a “Stretch” mode (which is on by default) that corrects this and provides the necessary consistency in all of the keyboard’s notes. - Multiple sounds per track
The vintage Mellotron units would allow only one sound to be played per track, as the tape loops could only support this maximum. Arturia expanded this for two factory samples per track and up to eight of your samples per track, with a considerable expansion in creativity and sound possibilities.
- True Analog Emulation
Compatibility:
This plugin runs on macOS 10.13 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 8.1 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST2.4, VST3, AU, NKS, and AAX plugin formats and requires Open GL 2.0 compatible GPU.
Summary:
Arturia has done well one more time. The entire vintage vibe of this unit was preserved but in a cleaner state, which makes this a reliable virtual instrument to be fully explored as if it were the real deal. The most important controls are present, distributed in a pleasant-looking interface, but with the incredible addition of a sample editor window that can be more useful to modern productions.
2. GForce M-Tron MKII
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
This focused recreation brings back specific Mellotron models in complete depth.
The earlier Mellotron models and the Chamberlin Musicmaster are the main focus of GForce M-Tron MKII. Although they have released an M-Tron Pro version in the past, this instance seeks to explore more about these earlier models and bear improved presets and tools to expand your sound even further.
Key Features:
-
- Left manual
The keyboard is divided between two distinct sections, as did the original Mellotron units. Here you can load rhythms and accompaniments just like expected, with a “Tapes’ Host Sync” option that can deeply organically increment your composition. - Right manual
The other half of the keyboard is dedicated to loading lead parts. M-Tron MKII’s right manual is oversized if compared to the original units, and you can now also load rhythms and accompaniments just like its counterpart. This expands creativity considerably and creates a fusion of mixed grooves and phrases. - Mixed rhythms and phrases
Each section inside a vintage Mellotron unit would be played isolatedly – meaning that a scrolling mechanism that recreated an instrument could not be loaded at the same time as another instrument recreation. To get you fully covered, GForce allows mixing different “Stations” very naturally and with complete control of blending different rhythms or stock phrases. - Set your tone
If you “open” the Mellotron lid, you’ll find an array of controls inside M-Tron MKII. These parameters can be saved and loaded at your will in isolated patches. In addition, you can configure the “Tape Start,” “Detune,” “Tape Pan,” and “Key Click” options. - Chord button
The “Chord” button is located at the lower left side of your virtual keyboard and can be switched on or off as you wish. If activated, this option sets each key in the left manual to trigger a specific chord relative to the key you’re working with. - Tape configuration
You can set the most critical elements of your tape control in the four small white buttons in both left and right sections of your interface screen. All tapes and their loops can be reversed, pitched, played with a two-second rewind time, and panned to adjust your needs better and be played at half speed.
- Left manual
Compatibility:
This plugin runs on macOS 10.15 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST, VST3, AU, and AAX plugin formats and runs in standalone format.
Summary:
The intense attention to detail in M-Tron MKII is excellent and provides an authentic vintage experience as a pro virtual instrument plugin would. The controls are relevant and can alter your sound seamlessly, although the overall user interface design screen may be too messy and a bit hard to work with at first. The samples, however, are good sounding and are worthy of the vintage units it seeks to reproduce.
3. IK Multimedia SampleTron 2
More Info & Price
The sweet samples are brought to life in this excellent digital replica.
IK Multimedia’s SampleTank platform is the main force behind SampleTron 2, allied with its vast knowledge of tape modeling. The team of developers used vintage Mellotron and Chamberlin units as references, capturing their iconic sounds with the best modern features you could get from a virtual instrument plugin.
Key Features:
-
- Sample library
SampleTron 2 comes with over 400 samples captured directly from vintage Mellotron units, old Chamberlin, Optigans, and other rarities along the way. You can load up to three simultaneously, aside from individually processing each with IK Multimedia’s modeling technology. - Models
Several models are covered in SampleTron 2, each bringing unique sonorities and characteristics to your track. So feel free to pick from “M1” (Chamberlin M1), “MkII” (Mellotron MK II), “M300” (Mellotron M300), “M400” (Mellotron M400), “M400S” (Mellotron M400S), “Novatron,” “Optigan” (Mattel Optigan), “Orchestron” (Vako Orchestron), “360” (360 System Digital Keyboard), “VP330” (Roland VP330), and “Modern.” - Edit mode
The “Edit” mode will be constructive if you require further tweaking regarding your parameters. You can fine-tune, transpose, pan, and set the volume, aside from adding a filter and an envelope with velocity control for individual tracks or the entire virtual instrument at once. - Effects
SampleTron 2 allows you to optimize your sound with the help of coherent effects that instantly tame your track’s dimension. Most of these are also present in other IK Multimedia products, such as tape echo, “Multimod” – a modulation unit comprised of chorus, phaser, flanger, uni-vibe, and rotary speaker simulator-, reverb, and even a channel strip compressor and equalizer. - Modern instruments
Aside from the vintage collection, SampleTron 2 allows the user to add modern acoustic instruments into the Mellotron environment quickly. These modern options benefit from the tape processing present inherently in Mellotron and similar units, but with their main sound preserved. Unlike similar products, the best vintage aspects are significantly preserved and blended with modern instruments. - MIDI Learn
You can use the “MIDI Learn” feature in any model or configuration to link any parameter with a specific MIDI controller key. This can save you a considerable amount of time, mainly if you’re dealing with an instrument preset that requires constant alterations in terms of timbre.
- Sample library
Compatibility:
The 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.
Summary:
Presented by the powerful SampleTank engine, SampleTron 2 shines in delivering both authentic vintage tones and new modern sonorities in the same packaging, with the addition of some beneficial effects along the way. The samples are convincing and authentic, even when blended with modern acoustic instruments. In addition, the “MIDI Learn” tool can be a good bonus here since it was made to control your virtual instrument more straightforwardly.
4. EZkeys Mellotoon
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
The glorious Mellotron M400 soundscape is captured inside this plugin.
EZkeys is renowned for its keyboard sample collections, and Mellotoon is no exception. This plugin’s samples were directly captured from an authentic Mellotron M400 vintage unit, blending direct and amplified signals to provide you with the best sonority possible, aside from the further adjustments that can be made to your final tone.
Key Features:
-
- Authentic sounds
As expected, you can choose between multiple instrument simulations in Mellotoon. Feel free to select iconic timbres such as “Recorder,” “Boys Choir,” “Piano,” “Viola,” “Solo Flute,” “Cello,” “3 Violins,” “String Section,” and also some new combinations like “Phased Futures” (blending some instruments with phaser and delay effects) and “Voice Of Les” (the choir section with a Leslie speaker cabinet added to it). - Chord Wheel
Using Mellotoon may be more fun than you imagined because you can drag and drop multiple MIDI contents. One outstanding feature is the “Chord Wheel” section, which allows you to choose and insert different chords directly into your plugin’s timeline. - Alter voicings
Inside the same section, you can also change other parameters, such as the voicing of a determined chord. The “+” and “-“ symbols can do that perfectly, raising or lowering any notes inside the chord in a heartbeat. - Humanize
As the MIDI programming is excellent in Mellotoon, you have almost every necessary tool to make your progression sound more realistic and authentic. A great way to do this is to use the “Humanize” option, which can alter the note’s velocity value and make the note’s length more variable, thus providing an organic and humanized approach to your playing. - Fine-tune
In Mellotoon, even your entire keyboard’s tuning can be altered instantaneously. You can set the overall tuning of your instrument by octaves, cents, or semitones, giving you that distinct eerie feeling that some out-of-tune pianos bring to darker songs and making your entire instrument sound anew at the same time. - Dynamic controls
You can have complete control over your dynamic spectrum in Mellotoon. Be ready to adjust the velocity curve response and envelope settings as you wish, thus tailoring this virtual instrument to your playing style seamlessly.
- Authentic sounds
Compatibility:
The plugin is available for macOS 10.10 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST, AAX, and AU plugin formats.
Summary:
The main focus here is to provide a meaningful MIDI experience to your virtual instrument, which is a very good-sounding Mellotron M400. If you have an excellent MIDI keyboard controller, then playing this instrument will be marvelous. Aside from the multiple MIDI editing possibilities, the overall playability is very customizable to adjust your style naturally.
5. Arturia Tape MELLO-FI (Tape Saturation/Emulation)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Inspired by the iconic Mellotron, this plugin brings the tape simulation and all its desired imperfections straight to your computer.
The famous unit, which excels as one of the earliest sampling devices ever produced, has gained fame through classic songs like “Strawberry Fields Forever” by The Beatles. The grainy and lo-fi character of the Mellotron is brought to life on this plugin by Arturia in all its glory.
Distributed between three main modules, the Arturia MELLO-FI recreates that old-school atmosphere present in these instruments with a dedicated preamp, a tape module ready to adjust the perfect tone, and a filter. A tape stop feature is also present to make it even closer to the authentic feel of these machines.
Key Features:
-
- Tape controls
In this section, you’ll find the heart of the plugin, which makes it sound like a tape. Distributed between four knobs, the quality and design of the tape sound can be easily molded. For example, the “Flutter” knob directly impacts the pitch of the recording by mimicking the rotations of a tape motor, which can also be visually seen on a little screen above the controls. Similarly, the “Wow” knob also alters the pitch slower than the previous knob. The “Wear” control, as it might suggest, deals with the amount of degradation in a tape, and, lastly, the “Mechanics” knob controls the amount of tape motor noise in the signal. Combining these four elements can create the perfect recipe for an authentic vintage sound. - Preamp
The preamp module features three primary controls: “Drive,” “Tone,” and “Noise.” At this stage, the signal can be manipulated and processed similarly to the genuine preamp of a Mellotron. The “Drive” knob deals with the amount of distortion applied to the original signal, which can easily be monitored via the VU meter. Underneath it, there’s a switch for a gain-compensated boost, which will make it sound even crunchier. The “Tone” knob allows you to change the color of the original sound by damping the high frequencies. Also, you can altogether bypass it out of your signal chain by pressing a switch underneath the control. Lastly, the “Noise” knob adds a tape noise texture to the overall sound, sometimes even capturing the aspect of a vinyl sound. - Tape stop
This great function is present to instantly bring that classic tape stop effect to your track, a ubiquitous tool used in sampled recordings that can be added to your instrument while you play. You can either click on the exposed wheel or on the “Play/Pause” switch underneath it to have it activated, and it can be triggered in an “Instant” or “Fast-Forward” style (abrupt or slightly fading out the effect). - Filter
This control deals with the high-pass and low-pass filters that might apply to your signal. You can rapidly shape the high or low-end spectrum and tame any undesired frequencies created or enhanced by any previous controls by twisting this knob.
- Tape controls
Compatibility:
This plugin runs on macOS 10.13 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 8.1 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST2.4, VST3, AU, NKS, and AAX plugin formats and requires Open GL 2.0 compatible GPU.
Summary:
An excellent option for any producers searching for a tool that brings the classic lo-fi vintage aspect of a tape recorder to your sound. This is a faithful reproduction of a classic sound profile from a famous instrument, and Arturia nailed remodeling it, as usual.
The variety and subtle alterations each control can bring showcase how sensitive this effect is, having the power to drastically change any track processed through it.
Related Reading:
20 Best Tape Emulation Plugins 2023 (Real Hardware Emulations)
6. UVI Mello
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
This authentic recreation will send you back to the 1960s instantly.
The fantastic efforts UVI takes in recreating their favorite instruments are well-praised, especially in a package such as this. Multiple original Mellotron tapes were sampled carefully, using three units to provide the most variable and concise sounds into your preferred DAW while maintaining that characteristic vintage sonority.
Key Features:
-
- Immense sample library
As previously mentioned, UVI Mello counts on several samples in its library to sound as faithful as possible. Multiple sample files from three distinct units provided the most critical variations in timbre and sonority. This offers different possibilities and keeps a reliable sound profile overall of the virtual instrument. - Noises
So you want to get even deeper into authentic tones? No problem. UVI Mello has the characteristic key and mechanical noises the vintage units also presented sampled, meaning you can add or remove them from your track as you wish. This augments the realism and authenticity, almost as if you went back to the golden age of music to record these instruments manually. - Keyboard range
The original Mellotron units had a keyboard range of around two to three octaves, which should be enough to play around with. However, if your production requires a more extended length of notes, UVI Mello allows for more octaves to be added, according to your MIDI controller keyboard. This is crucial for complex harmonies and more intricate melodies to be created. - Main controls
The main controls are located near the “Mello” logo on a separate plate from the other controls. They are “Volume,” “Tone,” “Pitch,” and “Sound Switch,” which change the current tape being used. For example, the “Pitch” knob can be twisted to adjust the pitch in your virtual instrument, ranging from -24 to +24 semitones. - Effects
UVI Mello counts on some direct effects to enhance your soundscape. For example, you can add reverb to increase the ambiance and tape delay to make things space out better in the mix, aside from a 3-band equalizer that can be imperative in setting the perfect frequency response in your sound. - Stereo image
You can tame your stereo imaging the best way possible with some valuable controls, like the dedicated “Width” knob that sets the overall stereo width, as expected. There’s also a selection of some stereo modes, “Alternate Pan” and “Unison Mode.“
- Immense sample library
Compatibility:
The plugin is available for macOS 10.14 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 10 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST, VST 3, AAX, and AU plugin formats.
Summary:
The great work UVI has done in the past echoes in this elegant plugin. The interface looks incredible, as if you were in the recording studio, ready to explore the multiple inner aspects of the beautiful Mellotron unit. The high-quality effects provided by the company might seem too little for a virtual instrument plugin, but they are more than enough to make your tone stand out in the mix. Special kudos for the extended keyboard range mode, which can make your entire MIDI controller benefit from these iconic sounds.
6 Free Melotron Plugins
1. Plogue Sforzatron
More Info & Download
A familiar sound with revamped looks and controls.
The sforzando is one of the market’s most popular freeware sample players. The quality behind its construction is excellent, and although it presents an exclusive format (.sfz), many producers and musicians rely on them, professionally or not. Now it’s time to get your hands on iconic Mellotron sounds with the asserted quality that Plogue offers.
Key Features:
-
- Blend your sounds
You can use up to three different instances to get the most authentic results in Sforzatron. This allows for seamless integration between different timbres, thus resulting in exciting and creative results. In addition, a toggle switch can activate each module so that you can run one, two, or three simultaneously. - Envelope
Each module contains an envelope configuration distributed between the “Attack,” “Decay,” “Sustain,” and “Release” knobs. By messing with these controls, you’ll be able to determine how exactly your sound will be heard in terms of dynamics, even before pressing any key to play music. - Detune
As the Mellotron would rely heavily on the use of tapes to play the loops, Sforzatron offers an individual “Tune” control for each module. By twisting this knob, you will hear a slight detuning according to how much you turn that to the right, providing an authentic vintage vibe to the virtual instrument. - Global overdrive
Affecting all modules at once, the global “Drive” control is the perfect tool to ‘heat things.’ You can think of it as some preamplifier in the instrument’s circuit, adding nice overtones and a distinctive warmth to whatever timbres you are working with.
- Blend your sounds
Compatibility:
The plugin is available for macOS 10.9 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in .SFZ format and runs in the Sforzando sampler.
Summary:
Sforzando is an excellent sampler that happens to be freeware as well. It works beautifully, and thousands of libraries are ready to be loaded. Sforzatron is just one of these, and it works remarkably well, considering it’s a free product. The most exciting aspect is the three distinct modules, allowing for three different Mellotrons to be played simultaneously and creating a new soundscape in your track.
2. Elektrostudio Tapeotronic
More Info & Download
This simple plugin will bring you iconic Mellotron sounds in a beat.
One of the most exciting instruments to ever exist is the Mellotron. It’s one of the first sampled instruments created, and the sounds that come from it seek to reproduce ensembles, curious instruments, and authentic sounds. Gladly, all of that is present in this free package from Elektrostudio.
Key Features:
-
- The sounds
In Tapeotronic, you can use some of the power behind the Mellotron with authentic patches that sound similar to the original unit. In addition, you can choose “Flute,” “Choir,” and “String” presets to be used in this small keyboard, selectable via a small “Sound” switch located on the main board of the instrument. - Patches
In case you’re new to Mellotron and all the beautiful sounds it can create, there are some patches to be used in Tapeotronic. They can be helpful to anyone in need of inspiration or to know more about how this instrument works, with 16 available options to choose from the three different sounds contained. - Bias control
If you ‘open the lid’ of your Mellotron instrument, you’ll see a hidden menu with some configurations available. One of these is the “Bias” knob, which can generate instability regarding volume and tone. In real life, this would alter the overall electric current inside the circuit, and Elektrostudio captured that vintage aspect neatly. - MIDI Learn
Inside that same opened lid, Tapeotronic also has the MIDI menu. So, in essence, you can set the MIDI Learn configurations and automate the values you deem necessary, all inside the plugin’s user screen interface.
- The sounds
Compatibility:
The plugin is available for Windows 7 or higher (32-bit only). It comes in VST plugin format.
Summary:
Practical and easy to use, Tapeotronic is a compact virtual instrument that successfully covers the Mellotron sound, although in a reduced way. You can’t expect multiple sounds and configurations here, but certainly, this is a valuable tool to work with, even though it’s Windows-exclusive.
3. Dream Vortex Studio Nanotron
More Info & Download
A simple virtual instrument for your vintage tone.
Dream Vortex Studio wanted to capture the essence behind the iconic Novatron instrument, so Nanotron was born. All sounds were captured via a Studer A80, with considerable time spent improving the samples.
Key Features:
-
- Sounds
Named “A,” “B,” and “C,” the sounds included in Nanotron are a “Male/Female Choir,” a “String Section,” and a “Flute,” respectively. - Envelope
The two envelope controls – “Attack” and “Release” – are the best way to set the dynamic profile of your instrument, defining the perfect way each note will resonate. - Tone
The “Tone” knob control is a filter sweep that can cut or add frequencies to your final sound. Twisting to the left will bring a darker sound but with a particular character, and the other way around will provide a more transparent and sparkled tone.
- Sounds
Compatibility:
The plugin is available for Windows 7 or higher (32-bit only). It comes in VST plugin format.
Summary:
As simple as it gets, Nanotron is an homage to the iconic Novatron units of the 1980s. This can be useful for its small package size and considerable pleasant tones, although in a very restricted and limited user interface design. The controls are responsive and can provide more sonorities than you imagine.
4. Dream Vortex Studio Microtron
More Info & Download
Another pleasant option from the same manufacturer of the previous item, with the same quality.
Microtron is Dream Vortex Studio’s attempt to recreate the Mellotron sound in its core. With simple looks and straightforward controls, it contains the classic vintage sound that resonated through the 1960s to this day but is also tailored for modern productions.
Key Features:
-
- The sounds
Similar to the previous item in our article, Microtron features three sounds (“A,” “B,” and “C”) that cover the “Male/Female Choir,” “String Section,” and “Flute” sounds found in the vintage Mellotron units. - Envelope
Similarly to Novatron, the “Attack” and “Release” knobs also do a great job when dealing with the dynamic response in your instrument, primarily when allied with the two other controls nearby. - Rhythm
The left manual, also known as the rhythmic section of the Mellotron instrument, is ideal for setting how your notes will be played. In addition, you can twist the knob around to hear subtle yet precise variations in rhythmic values, offering a considerable creative aspect.
- The sounds
Compatibility:
The plugin is available for Windows 7 or higher (32-bit only). It comes in VST plugin format.
Summary:
Although not precise, Microtron resembles the sonority that only a Mellotron could provide, but with a few different tweaks to it. As a result, the final sound tends to be more modern-oriented and not so much vintage, so this can be ideal if you’re looking for a refreshed instrument to use in your next track instead of exclusively dealing with the classic Mellotron vibe.
5. Artifake Labs Redtron SE
More Info & Download
A free rendition of the iconic Mellotron M400 unit.
Based on a 1973 Mellotron M400, the Redtron SE is a good-looking plugin that resembles an effects unit in its interface design screen. The controls are clear and concise, providing the much-beloved vintage sonority instantaneously.
Key Features:
-
- Sound types
You can count on nine sound types in Redtron SE: “MKII Flute,” “MKII 3 Violins,” “M400 Cello,” “MKII Brass,” “M400 Combined Choir,” “M400 String Section,” “M400 Woodwinds,” “M300A Violins,” and “M300B Violin.” - No loops
Just like the authentic Mellotron unit, Redtron SE features a track of eight seconds in length that can only be repeated if played again. Of course, the failures in the ending of these sounds provided by the analog tape are also preserved faithfully. - Layers
There are two layers in Redtron SE, entitled “A” and “B.” Each has separate controls and split configurations, and combining both simultaneously can be suitable for nailing authentic vintage tones and even new, bolder ones. - Click switch
Aside from the previously mentioned configurations that make the user experience more realistic, you can also have the classic clicks and noises that the Mellotron would generate automatically. In addition, the “Mellotronic Click Switch” can be activated at will and provides the less-perceivable sounds this instrument could generate whenever played.
- Sound types
Compatibility:
The plugin is available for Windows 7 or higher (32-bit only). It comes in VST plugin format.
Summary:
With a refreshed look and consistent controls, Redtron SE is an excellent option for anyone needing a Mellotron sound for free. The samples are delicious, and the vintage aspect is highly preserved. In addition, the more modern features, such as MIDI compatibility, are also included, making it the perfect freebie for your Mellotron tones.
6. BatSounds MellowSound
More Info & Download
Simplistic looks can also give you the sound you need; this virtual instrument is proof.
Inspired by the vintage aspect of a Mellotron, MellowSound does not attempt to be like its inspiration. Instead, this virtual instrument sounds anew, refreshed, and ready to be a part of your next production.
Key Features:
-
- Voices
The classic “Strings,” “Choir,” and “Brass” Mellotron sounds are included in MellowSound, and BatSounds went further in shaping them according to what they saw fit. As a result, the sounds are pleasant and convincing, closer to a new unseen instrument than ever. - Envelope
Instead of relying on an entire knob to be twisted, there’s a switch dedicated to setting the parameters in the envelope section. For example, the “Attack” and “Release” can be tweaked as “Short,” “Medium,” and “Long” values, with no further editing available. - Quality knob
The sole “Quality” knob found on the main interface design is perfect for augmenting the “vintage aspect” of your sound, bringing some “dirt” to the notes you play and consistent with the details of a Mellotron circuitry.
- Voices
Compatibility:
The plugin is available for Windows 7 or higher (32-bit only). It comes in VST plugin format.
Summary:
This sounds nothing like a Mellotron, but it’s interesting nonetheless. The primary approach here is to get inspiration from a Mellotron, not to be like one, so it’s understandable. The sounds and controls are nothing spectacular, so this can be an exciting choice if you need a different virtual instrument.
Bonus:
Audiolatry Mel-Lofi (Best Value)
More Info & Download (For 1$ Only)
With this virtual instrument, you can get a big sound for a small price.
Based on Mellotron samples recorded by Taijiguy, Mel-Lofi is a perfect choice to be used alongside lo-fi hip-hop, chillout, ambient, and even pop productions. The clean look is a tremendous advantage to newcomers and professionals alike, and everything looks neatly packaged on your screen.
Key Features:
-
- Presets
If you require a variety of Mellotron instruments, then Mel-Lofi will offer you plenty of opinions to work with. You can choose from 23 different presets, selected by a small window at the top of your screen, and of course, the multiple parameters can be used to tweak it to your liking. - FX layers
If you use key switches to play your virtual instruments, then Mel-Lofi will bring you the best MIDI CC options. Four individual fader controls can be set for the C1, C#1, D1, and D#1 notes, and these layers can be blended simultaneously. - Cutoff
Low and high-pass filters are included in Mel-Lofi, with a selectable filter type beside the “Cutoff” knob. This is highly useful if you want to tame the frequency spectrum, making the instrument more noticeable or not in a mix, for instance. - Global controls
Some controls will affect all layers at once, considering they are parameters that don’t require specific tweaking. They are “Tune,” “Volume,” “Gain,” and “Pan” controls, each setting a unique aspect of your final sound.
- Presets
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.11 or higher and Windows 8.1 or higher. It runs in VST2, VST3, and AU plugin formats.
Summary:
The variety of presets in Mel-Lofi makes it a reliable virtual instrument to mess with if you’re searching for an affordable Mellotron plugin. The visual appearance is pleasant and may inspire you to tweak the knobs, even more, the global controls. The FX layers are an excellent addition that most products in this price range do not usually include.
Conclusion
The fantastic sounds only a Mellotron can produce are very sought-after by many musicians, even in modern times. The appeal of this instrument was very groundbreaking in its time, in the early 1960s, and paved the path for many more bold ideas to come in the future.
This list aims to bring you the best options regarding virtual reproductions of such an iconic instrument. Most options are powerful and precise replicas of this timbre, while others might be an expanded and somewhat updated version of the same instrument.
Among the best options, you can trust the work of Arturia with the excellent Mellotron plugin. The sounds are unique, and so are the looks and functionality of the plugin. Other great options are IK Multimedia’s SampleTron 2 and UVI Mello, both showcasing a great-sounding quality in each note played.
Some unique choices exist, like GForce M-Tron MKII, which aims to reproduce a particular Mellotron model. The controls are a bit confusing, but the overall experience is authentic-sounding and may be the ideal choice for anyone looking for that.
Among the freebies options, some good options came along, but the best choices might be Plogue Sforzatron and Artifake Labs Redtron SE. The former is a concise library that runs beautifully on any CPU out there, and the latter is an excellent alternative for a replica of a specific Mellotron model.
Ultimately, the choice lies in your hands and can be tested thoroughly. So be sure to do that to guarantee your choice is the best possible one.
See you next time!
Readings that you may like:
Other Plugin Roundups:
Genre Focused:
Top 10 EDM Plugins (And 10 Best FREE Plugins For EDM)
Top 10 Plugins For TRAP Beats (And 5 Best FREE Trap Plugins)
20 Best Plugins For Rock Musicians (+ 6 FREE Plugins)
Top 14 Trance Plugins (Uplifting, Tech, Progressive, Vocal, Dream, Hard)
Top 10 GOA & PsyTrance Plugins (Best Psychedelic Trance Tools)
Top 7 Plugins For Dubstep (With 10 Best FREE Effects & Synths)
Top 20 Synthwave Plugins (+ 11 Best FREE Plugins)
Top 15 Plugins For Techno, House, Electro, Tech House, UK Garage
Top 6 Plugins For Latin Music (And 4 FREE Tools)
Top 12 Plugins For Hip-Hop (+ Best Kontakt Libraries)
Top 7 Plugins For Game & Film Scoring (+ 6 Best Kontakt Libraries)
Top 10 R&B And Pop Music Plugins & KONTAKT Libraries
30 Best Free Plugins For DnB, EDM, IDM & Experimental Music
EQ Plugins
Top 12 Free EQ Plugins For Precise Mixing & Mastering
Top 9 Mid/Side EQ Plugins For Mixing & Mastering (+ 2 Free Tools)
Top 7 Graphic EQ Plugins (With 3 Best Free EQs)
Top 7 EQ Plugins For Mastering In | And Best FREE Mastering EQs
Top 6 Passive EQ Plugins (Klevgrand, SPL, UAD, Waves, IK Multimedia)
Top 11 Plugins For Making Metal (Best Guitars, Drums & Effects)
Metering:
Top 5 Audio Metering Plugins (LUFS, RMS, LRA, True Peak)
Top 6 Spectrum Analyzer Plugins – Spectral Analysis Tools
Top 6 Oscilloscope Plugins To See The Waveforms
Top 5 Key Detection Plugins & Software (+ Best FREE App)
Kontakt Libraries
20 Best Kontakt Libraries For All Categories (Synths, Drums, Vocals)
Top 7 Drum Libraries For KONTAKT (And 4 Freebies)
Top 7 Trap Music Kontakt Libraries (And Best Lo-Fi Kontakt Library)
Top 7 Metal & Rock Kontakt Libraries (Best Guitars & Drums)
Top 10 Guitar Libraries For Kontakt (Acoustic, Electric, Bass & Freebies)
Top 7 Trailer Scoring Plugins & Kontakt Libraries
20 Best Free KONTAKT Libraries For Various Instruments
Top 9 Piano Kontakt Sample Libraries (And 5 Best Free Pianos)
Top 10 Percussion KONTAKT Libraries (And 3 Freebies)
Top 7 Kontakt Libraries For Horror & Thriller Scoring (No VSTs)
Audio Restoration, Calibration & Utility:
Top 6 Noise Reduction Plugins (And 3 Best Free Tools)
6 Best Audio Restoration Plugins & Software
Top 7 Phase Alignment Plugins To Fix Your Bass & Drums
Top 10 Room Calibration & Headphones/Speakers Correction Plugins
Instrument Plugins:
Top 6 Vocoder Plugins (Effects & Synths + FREE Vocoder)
11 Best Rhodes VST Plugins (AND 5 Free Rhodes Plugins)
Top 12 Randomizer Plugins Including FREE Plugins
Top 6 Kick Drum Plugins (Best Kick Designer Tools)
Top 12 Woodwind Plugins (And KONTAKT Libraries)
Top 10 Double Bass Plugins (Best Upright Basses)
Top 5 Strings VST Plugins (AND 4 Best Free Instruments)
Top 6 Sampler Plugins (And 3 Best FREE Plugins)
Top 6 Classical Guitar Plugins & Kontakt Libraries (And FREE Guitars)
Top 12 Sub Plugins (Best 808 & Bass Tools For Massive Low End)
Top 10 Plugins On PluginBoutique (And 7 Best Free Plugins)
Top 11 Plugins On Plugin Alliance
Top 7 Acoustic Guitar Plugins (And 4 Best Kontakt Libraries)
9 Best Bass Guitar Plugins (And 2 Best Freebies)
Top 6 Electric Guitar Plugins (Best PAID & FREE Picks)
Top 10 Arpeggiator VST Plugins (Best Synths, MIDI Effects & Tools)
Top 10 Modular Synth Plugins (And 3 Best FREE Plugins)
Top 6 Choir Plugins & Sample Libraries (And 3 Best Free Plugins)
11 Best Percussion & Drum VST Plugins (And FREE Plugins)
Top 8 Piano Plugins (Best Sounding Pianos & 5 FREE Piano Plugins)
Top 6 Organ Plugins Ever Made (And 3 Best Free Organs)
Top 14 VST Plugins For Beginners (And 9 FREE Plugins)
Top 9 Drum Machine Plugins (And Groovebox Plugins)
4 Best Banjo Plugins (Best Banjo Instruments)
The 5 Best Ukulele Plugins & Kontakt Libraries
Top 13 Synth Plugins (And 5 Best FREE Synths Plugins)
Top 13 Sequencer Plugins (Synth, MIDI & Step Sequencers)
The 10 Best Multi-Effect Plugins (And 3 Best Free Plugins)
Top 12 Plugin Bundles For Musicians (Synths, Mixing & Mastering)
Processing & Sound Design:
8 Best Lo-Fi Plugins (PAID & FREE)
Top 11 Plugins For Mixing Vocals (For Home Studio)
Top 12 Saturation Plugins (Best Mixing & Mastering Tools)
Top 6 Pitch Shifter Plugins (And 3 Best FREE Pitch Shifters)
Top 6 Chorus VST Plugins For Musicians (And 3 FREE Plugins)
Top 6 Limiter Plugins For Precise Mastering & Mixing
The 8 Best Filter Plugins For Precise Cuts & Boosts (+ 5 Free Filters)
6 Best Autotune Plugins To Improve & Enhance Your Vocals
Top 10 Transient Shaper Plugins (VST, AU, AAX)
Top 7 Enhancer Plugins (For Bass, Drums, Vocals & Harmonics)
Top 6 Flanger Plugins (And 5 Best FREE Flanger Emulators)
Top 7 Phaser Plugins (And 3 Best FREE Phasers)
Top 10 Plugins For Mixing Drums (And 3 Best Free Plugins)
Top 7 Bitcrusher Plugins (And 4 Best FREE Bitcrushers + 3 Bonuses)
Top 6 Plugins For Voice-Over & Dialogue Cleaning (Post Production)
Top 10 Stereo Imaging Plugins (Best Old & Modern Picks)
Top 5 Multiband Limiter Plugins
Top 7 De-Esser Plugins For Better Vocals (And 4 FREE Plugins)
Top 7 Clipper Plugins (Best Limiter Alternatives)
Top 6 Chord Generator Plugins That Inspire Melodies (+ FREE Tools)
7 Best Exciter Plugins For Mixing & Mastering
Top 7 Channel Strip Plugins (And 2 Best Free Plugins)
Top 11 Distortion Plugins (And 4 Top Free Plugins)
Top 5 Comb Filter & Resonator Plugins | Melda, Kilohearts, Tritik
The 7 Best Vibrato VST Plugins | Audec, Audiority, Melda
The 7 Best Tremolo Plugins | Eventide, Melda, SoundToys, Kuassa…
The 7 Best Harmonizer Plugins | Eventide, Melda, Aegean Music
7 Best Sidechain Plugins (VST, AU, AAX) | Xfer, Cableguys..
Top 10 Noise Gate Plugins (And 6 FREE Free Gate Tools)
The 6 Best Ring Modulator VST Plugins | KiloHearts, Melda
7 Best Autopan VST Plugins | CableGuys, Melda, Waves, Soundtoys
The 6 Best Frequency Shifter VST Plugins
Top 11 Granulizer Plugins For Future Sound Design
29 Best Sound Design VST Plugins
Compressor Plugins
Top 11 Free Compressor Plugins (VCA, Vari-Mu, FET, Digital)
Top 7 Multiband Compressor Plugins (And 4 FREE Plugins)
Top 5 Diode-Bridge Compressor Plugins
Top 6 Mastering Chain Plugins: Complete VST Solutions
The 7 Best VCA Compressor Plugins (VST, AU, AAX)
Top 11 Mastering Compressor Plugins (And 2 FREE Plugins)
Top 10 Opto Compressor Plugins For Transparent Sound
The 7 Best Vari-Mu Compressor Plugins (And 2 Best FREE Tools)
Reverb & Delay Plugins:
Top 12 Reverb Plugins (And 5 FREE Reverb Plugins)
The 6 Best Spring Reverb VST Plugins | AudioThing, GSi, u-he, Eventide
Top 12 Delay Plugins For Music Production In (VST, AU, AAX)
Top 10 FREE Delay Plugins (VST, AU, AAX)
The 10 Best Convolution Reverb Plugins
Amps & Preamps:
Top 10 Guitar Amp Plugins (And 5 Best FREE Simulators)
Top 10 Bass Amp Plugins (And 5 Best Free Simulators)
Top 9 Preamp Plugins (For Vocals, Guitars & More!) + Free Preamps
Other Recommended Gear:
Top 12 NearField Studio Monitors On Any Budget
Top 10 Midfield Studio Monitors For Home Recording
Best Biggest Studio Monitors (FarField Monitors)
Top 10 Guitar Pickups for Low Tunings
Top 10 Analog Compressors For Mixing & Mastering (On Any Budget)
Top 12 USB Audio Interfaces Under 150$, 200$, 300$ 400$ (Any Budget)
Top 12 Hardware Equalizers (Analog EQs For Mixing & Mastering)
Top 6 Analog Hardware Limiters
Top 6 Solid State Bass Amps (On Any Budget)
Top 6 Ribbon Mics On Any Budget (For Vocals, Drums & Guitars)
Top 6 Cheap Dynamic Mics For Vocals Under 50$, 100$, 200$ & 300$
Top 6 Chorus Guitar Pedals (On Any Budget)
6 Best 61-Key MIDI Keyboards (On Any Budget)
9 Best 49-Key MIDI Keyboards Under 100$ & 200$
Top 5 Best 25 Key MIDI Keyboards (On Any Budget)
Top 12 Acoustic Drums (Best Kits/Sets On Any Budget)
Guitar/Amp Focused:
Can I Put Nylon Strings on a Steel-string Guitar?
Do Electric Guitars Sound Good Unplugged?
Buying Your First Guitar: 2 Things To Know
Are Tube Amps Worth It? (Tube vs Solid-State Amps)
How Often Does A Guitar Need a Setup?
Can I Play Classical Guitar On A Steel-String Guitar?
How often guitar necks need reset?
Can You Play Two Guitars Through One Amp?
Can a 6 String Bass Be Tuned Like A Guitar?
Can I leave My Guitar Tuned Down a Step? Yes, But Is It Safe?
Should I Learn 4, 5 Or 6 String Bass Guitar & Why?
How To Know If your Guitar Amp Is Broken?
How To Fix Distorted Bass Guitar Sound?
Do Fender Guitars Appreciate In Value?
Should You Put Stickers On A Bass Guitar?
How Acoustic And Electric Guitars Are Made?
Is Electric Guitar Too Loud for an Apartment?
Does a Preamp Improve Sound Quality?
If I Learn Acoustic Guitar Can I Play Electric Guitar?
How Many Hours A Day Should You Practice Bass Guitar?
Do I need an AMP/DAC To Run Bookshelf Speakers?
How to Record Electric Guitar Into Logic Pro X?
Do headphones get worse with age?
DAW Related:
Best DAWs For Musicians Available (With FREE DAWs)
What’s The Most CPU Efficient DAW? – 5 DAWs Compared
How To Make Music Without Using A DAW?
Pro Tools Guide: How To Use AutoTune & Pitch Correction?
Ableton Review: Is It Worth The Money? (Cons & Pros)
Logic Pro X Review: Is It Worth It? (Cons & Pros)
How To Use Auto-tune & Pitch Correction In Cubase?
How To Fix Ableton Crackling, Crashing & Freezing? Step By Step
Plugin Related:
What Are Audio Plugins? Different Types of Plugins Explained
What Are The Best Tools To Develop VST Plugins & How Are They Made?
Cost of Developing Audio VST Plugin: Several Factors (With Table)
VST, VST, AU and AAX – What’s The Difference? Plugin Formats Explained
Complete Guide To Noise Gate – What It Is, What It Does & How To Use It?
How To Clip My Drums? Here Is How & Audio Teasers (Before/After)
Complete Guide To Limiter: How To Use It (+ Best Plugins & Analog Limiters)
Mixing With Reverb: How To Add Life To Your Mixes
Linear Phase vs Minimum Phase EQ – Full Guide
Difference Between LUFS, RMS & True Peak Loudness Meters
How And When To Use Algorithmic And Convolution Reverb In Your Mix?
Difference Between Active EQ, Passive EQ and Dynamic EQ
Headphones & Studio Monitors:
Do headphones get worse with age?
Monitors vs Studio Headphones For Mixing & Mastering
Top 10 Room Calibration & Headphones/Speakers Correction Plugins
Are Noise-Canceling Headphones Good For Music Production?
Can Headphones Break in Cold Weather?
Why do headphones & cables get sticky?
Can Wearing Headphones Cause Hair Loss?
How Do I know If My Studio Monitor Is Blown?
Side Effects Of Sleeping With Your Headphones On
Do You Need Music Amplifier For Studio Monitors or Studio Headphones?
Do Headphones or Earphones Damage Your Brain?
Can Headphones or Earphones cause Deafness or Toothache?
FarField, MidField & NearField Monitors – Their Uses, Pros & Cons
MIDI & Synths:
Should I Buy A MIDI Keyboard Or Synth? (Are Synths Worth It Anymore?)
Why Is Audio Gear So Expensive? (Especially Synths)
Top 12 Synth Brands – Analog, Digital & Modular Synth Manufacturers
11 Tips How To Choose MIDI Keyboard
Should I Buy MIDI Controller Or Keyboard? Cons, Pros & Tips
Eduardo Cardoso is a musician and audio producer based in São Paulo, Brazil. He studied both music production and theory in college and has successfully launched his career as a solo artist in 2021. With over 10 years of experience with the music business, he currently acts as a session musician, music producer, audio editor, and content creator. Read more..