Beat Making
Plugin Picks: 5 Inspiring Free VSTs to Get in November
Free plugins are one of the best things about being a producer in 2020. Quality music production tools have never been more accessible for the average musician. But with more freeware plugins showing up on the scene every day, knowing which ones are worth your time isn’t easy. That’s why we’re bringing you our top picks for the most useful and creative free music software every month.
In this edition—analog compressors, sequenced filters, powerful synths and more.
Today’s roundup of free plugins includes creative modern effects and some old favourites with a fresh new look.
From the weighty sound of analog compression to futuristic sequenced effects, there’s something in this collection for every producer.
Here are the free plugins we loved in November.
1. TDR Molotok
TDR Molotok is a reimagining of the popular VladG Molot freeware compressor.
Molot is a highly coloured analog style compressor with a notoriously difficult front panel.
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Even so, it gained a reputation as one of the most interesting sounding freeware compressors out there.
TDR has repackaged everything great about the original Molot into a more user friendly package with Molotok.
TDR has repackaged everything great about the original Molot into a more user friendly package with Molotok.
It’s a great choice if you need some more analog character in your compression.
2. TheWaveWarden Odin2
The Nordic-themed Odin2 synthesizer from TheWaveWarden is a new contender for the most advanced free synth plugin.
With an editable wavetable oscillator, loopable envelopes, multiple filter models and extensive modulation matrix, Odin2 pushes the boundaries of freeware.
On top of all that, it sounds great.
If you’re looking for a flexible synth that can cover lots of ground, Odin 2 is worth a try.
3. AudioModern Filterstep
There’s something instantly fun and creative about old school step sequencers.
The unique patterns and melodies that emerge can take you in unexpected directions.
That’s why AudioModern Filterstep is such an intriguing free VST.
It’s a rhythmic filter effect based on a tempo sync’d step sequencer that will get your tracks moving and shifting in time with your tracks.
Animate the cutoff frequency with up to 64 steps to turn boring static sounds into evolving patterns and textures.
4. Auburn Sounds Graillon
Pitch correction isn’t just a crutch, it’s a creative tool that can enhance ordinary vocals with a unique sound.
Pitch correction isn’t just a crutch, it’s a creative tool that can enhance ordinary vocals with a unique sound.
But brand name vocal tuners are some of the most expensive plugins out there.
Auburn Sounds Graillon offers pitch shifting and vocal tuning in a freeware plugin.
If you’re looking for a way to get the classic hard turning effects without paying a fortune, Graillon 2 could be the perfect choice.
5. Diginoiz Subdivine Lite
Diginoiz Subdivine Lite is a powerful 808-style bass synthesizer for extremely deep bass sounds.
Subdivine Lite is the freeware edition of Diginoiz’s flagship bass synth. The Lite edition contains six presets that cover the most important 808 tones.
It’s a great choice if you need a plugin for the subby, siney bass tone that’s all over hip-hop production.
Inspiring music tech
Sometimes all it takes is one inspiring sound to pull you out of a creative rut. That’s why free plugins are such a great opportunity for modern producers.
But keeping up with every single free plugin takes a lot of effort.
Check back in with LANDR to get an easy digest of the best new releases you need in your plugin folder.
If you’ve made it through this article you’ll know about some great new plugins you can download for free to get inspired.
Michael Hahn is an engineer and producer at Autoland and member of the swirling indie rock trio Slight.
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