This roundup of free VST plugins features a Moog Voyager emulation, a gnarly parallel compressor, a vintage tube saturator, and a modeled TR-808 drum synth.
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. Blamsoft | VK-1 Viking Synthesizer
VK-1 Viking Synthesizer emulates Moog’s classic Voyager monophonic synthesizer. It has three variable wave oscillators, two modeled transistor ladder filters, a multi-wave LFO, and two modulation busses. VK-1 also comes loaded with 228 presets covering all the essential categories. Moreover, this monosynth captures the true vibe of the legendary hardware. It sounds amazing for basslines!
2. W. A. Production | ComBear Compressor
ComBear is a powerful Parallel Compression plugin. This dynamic beast brings fierce enhancement to drums, synths, vocals and anything else you run through it. Compress your elements hard, and then mix the brutally compressed signal with the original sound source. This tactic brings a bold, delightful and intense vibe to any sound.
3. Wave Arts | Tube Saturator Vintage
Tube Saturator Vintage is a free reissue of the company’s original Tube Saturator. This harmonic enhancer captures every nuance of an analog circuit. Moreover, the plugin emulates a dual 12AX7 triode preamp, paired up with a 3-band Baxandall type equalizer. Most importantly, Tube Saturator Vintage sounds incredibly good. Not to mention, it used to cost $149.95.
4. Ample Sound | Ample Percussion Cloudrum
Cloudrum is a unique and relaxing Steel Tongue Drum emulation. This sample-based instrument produces realistic tones that add an organic element to your mixes. Try this Caribbean treat on individual tracks or layer it with various other sounds to create a fuller sound.
5. Synsonic Instruments | BD-808
BD-808 is a freeware kick drum synthesizer designed to emulate the bass drum sounds of Roland’s legendary TR-808. This plugin is not sample-based. Instead, BD-808 models the synthesis engine of Roland’s classic drum machine. Not only does this plugin create awesome sounding 808-style bass drum sounds but it also works great as a bass instrument. Using an 808 sample as the sound source for bass is a well-known technique. This plugin is highly recommended for anyone looking for authentic TR-808 sounds.