This roundup of free VST plugins features a modular effect rack, a versatile drum synthesizer, a sample-based synthesizer with expression technology, an acoustic guitar synthesizer, and a handy limiting utility.
Free VST Plugins
Each month we search the web for some of the industry’s most essential freeware instrument and effect plugins. Our list of quality plugin downloads offers modern tools for your arsenal without having to spend a dime or waste time trawling the internet.
1. GUITAR RIG 5 PLAYER | Audio Effects Suit
GUITAR RIG 5 PLAYER is a multiple effects processor from Native Instruments that is both modular and expandable. The included FACTORY SELECTION library provides 17 cabinet amp emulations and 13 high-quality audio effects. Easily drag and drop components to the rack to create custom effect chains that will rock your mixes.
The suite also offers a range of versatile built-in tools and creative effects routing possibilities to assist you in the studio and on stage. Additionally, you can instantly expand GUITAR RIG 5 PLAYER with NI’s growing range of KOMPLETE Effects.
2. Drum Boxx Synth | Drum Synthesizer
Drum Boxx Synth is a new freeware VST drum synthesizer designed to create thousands of unique synthetic drum sounds for sampling and production.
This versatile drum synth sports 12 individual signal channels, each loaded with a dedicated synthesizer and sound-shaping controls. Drum Boxx also comes equipped with a set of audio effects for further processing and convenient routing options.
3. Infinity Synth | Sample-Based Synthesizer
Infinity Synth is sample-based synth designed for maximum expressiveness. This free virtual instrument comes loaded with a bank of high-quality sounds and sound shaping features. Additional samples and patches can also be auditioned and purchased directly from the synth.
Additionally, Infinity Synth has a cool design that gives visual feedback every time you turn a knob or hit a button. This versatile synth also features Multidimensional Polyphonic Expression (MPE) support that increases the expressiveness of multidimensional controllers such as ROLI’s Seaboard.
4. Ample Guitar M Lite II | Guitar Synthesizer
Ample Guitar M Lite II is another free virtual instrument that produces the tone and action of a Martin D-41 acoustic guitar.
This realistic guitar synth accurately recreates guitar fingerpicking, palm mute, legato slide, and several other authentic articulations. Some say Guitar M Lite II is the best free acoustic guitar plugin on the market.
Furthermore, Guitar M Lite II comes loaded with 866 samples, various sound shaping options, and a Tab Player that can load and play several different guitar tablature file formats.
5. Ice9 Automute | Limiting Utility
Ice9 Automate is a super handy utility that will protect your speakers and ears from dangerously loud output levels. Simply load this free VST plugin on your master channel, and it will prevent dangerously loud clipping levels.
Moreover, Ice9 also features a soft-muting function that will begin to attenuate the gain before a potentially dangerous single crosses a set threshold.