A superb way of expanding your library of production resources and tools is by downloading free plugins for your DAW. There is a wide selection of quality freeware available to explore from both established and indie developers, ranging from FXs plugins to virtual synthesizers. This list, in no particular order, will highlight a few of the options available.
Reverb and delay effects play a crucial role in a myriad of tracks and production elements. ValhallaDSP is a developer that has received an abundance of positive feedback for a range of its proprietary reverb plugins, such as, for instance, the Valhalla VintageVerb. With the introduction of Super Massive, Valhalla now offers a free plugin that is capable of delivering almost as stunning results as the paid alternatives.
As the name may suggest, the Super Massive is built and designed to deliver powerful and large echoes of lush reverb and delays. The plugin comes with 14 presets, or modes, that are pre-selected with varying levels of attack, decay, and echo density. From the sleek GUI, numerous parameters, like EQ High Cut, MOD Depth, and Warp, can be controlled for finer adjustments and to achieve a balanced mix.
Vinyl by iZotope is a plugin that has the ability to add a “vintage” character and rich texture to your audio, by applying effects like detune, scratch, wear and dust. The recently redesigned GUI now boasts a fresh and modern look, making it easy to use and navigate. Users are able to pick between six different presets, or manually adjust an array of parameters to get the perfect level of effects.
Spitfire Audio is home to a lineup of magnificent premium virtual instruments, such as their orchestral and choir plugins. A great way to get an introduction to Spitfire Audio is to try out LABS. This is a free plugin that comes with a regularly updated library of presets, sampled from instruments like guitars, strings, synths, woodwinds and more. Although restricted in terms of quality and sample selection compared to its paid counterparts, LABS is still capable of delivering both mellifluous and powerful sounds.
If you're looking to add warmth and thickness to your audio, then Saturation Knob by Softube might be ideal for you. With three modes: “Keep High”, “Neutral” and “Keep Low”, this plugin uses a modeled output distortion to efficiently add effects to anything from vocals to drum loops.
With over 2000 sounds, effects and loops across 16 pro-grade synths and sampled instruments, Komplete Start by Native Instruments is a value packed freeware product. Explore and use sounds from synthesizers like Mikro Prism, Blocks Base, TRK-01 Bass, Carbon 2 and sampled instruments like Kinetic Treats and Urban Beats.
Komplete Start also includes Kontakt 6 Player, in addition to Komplete Kontrol and Reaktor 6 Player, which is used to host various instruments from both Native Instruments and other developers.
There's a world of FREE synths out there that most producers don't know, haven't explored or taken the time to learn. Here are two courses covering 10 free Synth and FX plugins! See what these FREE synths can do for you...
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