The Best VSTS to Buy: Instruments & Plugins (Top 33)

daw software on dual monitors, man sat working, music studio, best vsts

If you are looking for some of the best VSTS, samples, and effects to give your music a professional and polished sound, you should consider paying for some pro software and sounds.

Today we look at some of the best music plugins that money can buy in 2023. 

The Best VSTS to Buy: Instruments & Plugins (Top 33)

1. Waves Mercury Bundle

Waves Mercury Bundle ($1199)

This astounding software bundle has an incredible 191 plugins included. This is Waves’ largest bundle sold as a perpetual license. The software bundle is usually $7599, but at the time of writing is on offer for $1199. 

“The professional audio industry’s largest, most comprehensive package of plugins for decades”.

This purchase includes vocal plugins, compressors, EQs, reverbs, delays, analog models, and much more. There are plugins for every audio need: mixing, production, mastering, restoration, sound design, and more. 

The Mercury Bundle is used by producers and engineers worldwide and has been in production for nearly three decades.

Some of the standout plugins in the Mercury Bundle include the Waves CLA MixHub and the Waves Vocal Bender. The Waves CLA MixHub is an emulation of a full channel strip from Grammy-winning engineer Chris Lord-Alge’s SSL 4000 series mixer.

It’s praised for its excellent SSL-style EQ, dynamics, and analog distortion. The Waves Vocal Bender, on the other hand, is known for producing contemporary modulated vocal effects and offers incredible levels of manipulation.

2. iZotope Music Production Suite 5.2

iZotope Music Production Suite 5.2 ($999)

iZotope Music Production Suite is a comprehensive production package. Music Production Suite 5.2 is their most comprehensive production suite yet including the newest iZotope releases; RX 10 Standard, Ozone 10 Advanced, Neutron 4, Audiolens, and more.

It offers a wide array of tools for music production, including Neutron Pro, Ozone Pro, RX Pro for Music, Nectar Pro, Melodyne, Relay, Visual Mixer, Neoverb Pro, Tonal Balance Control Pro, VocalSynth Pro, and Insight Pro.

The suite is particularly appreciated for its AI-powered Master Assistant, which helps users match the tonal balance profile of their desired track, making it easier for those with hearing difficulty.

The suite also includes access to online video tutorials from Groove3, which users have found helpful in getting up to speed on the basics of the software.

One potential drawback of the suite is that some of the tools, such as Ozone, can be power-intensive and may cause performance issues on some systems.

3. Addictive Drums

virtual drumkit interface

Addictive Drums ($869 – Fully Loaded)

Addictive Drums, developed by XLN Audio, is a highly versatile drum software that caters to both beginners and professional drummers. It offers a wide range of features that make it a valuable tool for enhancing drumming skills and creating unique music.

The software provides realistic sounds and grooves that can significantly improve your compositions. It comes with a library of professionally recorded drums, cymbals, and percussion instruments that can be customized according to your preferences.

You can also add your samples to create unique sounds. The built-in MIDI editor allows you to create drum patterns using any MIDI controller, making it easy to experiment with different sounds and rhythms.

Addictive Drums 2, the updated version of the software, continues to uphold the high standards set by its predecessor. It offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to customize your drums with professionally recorded sounds and rhythms.

4. Omnisphere

omnispherevst software logo

Omnisphere offers nearly 15000 sounds and endless sound possibilities. You can layer 4 instruments simultaneously, and there are synthesis modules included from some of the most well-renowned synth keyboards that have ever been created.

You will find sounds from the Nord lead synths, Dave Smith, Roland Juno, Korg, Yamaha, Moog, and more. At $499, this is not cheap software, but what it offers is incredibly deep and inspiring for musicians. 

One of the unique features of Omnisphere is its Hardware Synth Integration. This innovation transforms over 65 well-known hardware synthesizers into extensive hands-on controllers that unlock Omnisphere’s newly expanded synthesis capabilities.

This update takes Eric’s classic sound design work from the original 1987 Roland D-50 into completely new sonic territory with Omnisphere’s vast synthesis capabilities.

The synth engine of Omnisphere has been expanded. It now includes four layers per patch, new state variable filters, over 500 DSP wavetables, powerful granular synthesis, 8 LFOs, 12 ENVs, 34 filter types per part, a doubled mod matrix, and full FX modulation.

Omnisphere supports a newly redesigned, high-resolution interface with support for HiDPI displays. The modernized GUI is now easier to use and resizable to fit comfortably into your workspace.

It also has a standalone application with a recording function called Flow Capture™, which simultaneously grabs spontaneous musical moments in audio, MIDI, and .omnisphere sound format.

5. Heavyocity

heavyocity vst software interface

Heavyocity is another one-stop shop that has everything you need for music production in your home studio. Instruments, pro effects, bundles, everything is here. This is one of the best VSTS available in 2023.

Heavyocity offers a range of virtual software, each with unique features and pricing:

  1. Damage 2: Priced at $399, this is the epic sequel to the iconic original. It’s designed for those seeking a high-quality, immersive percussion experience.
  2. Damage: Available for $299, this software is described as the apex of epic cinematic percussion. It’s a great choice for those who want no substitutes when it comes to quality.
  3. DM-307: Also priced at $299, this is a stylized collection of modular synth, live percussion, and processed drum machines. It’s ideal for those who want a diverse range of sounds.
  4. Ensemble Drums Collection: Priced at $149, this collection offers traditional drums and epic performances. It’s perfect for those who want a classic drumming experience.
  5. Ethnic Drum Ensembles Collection: Available for $149, this collection includes Taikos, frame drums, congas, and surdos, delivering unique, punchy ensembles.
  6. Ensemble Metals Collection: Priced at $149, this collection sets a new standard for cinematic metals with 12 ensemble metal kits and over 300 loops.
  7. Ensemble Woods Collection: Available for $149, this collection offers the vibrant character of percussive woods with 11 ensemble wood kits and over 300 loops.
  8. Uncharted 88: Priced at $149, this software offers deeply sampled and mysteriously edgy organic percussion.
  9. Damage Drum Kit: Available for $119, this is a massive drum kit tailored for the epic aggression of modern scoring and music.
  10. Damage Rock Grooves: Priced at $49, this software offers hard-hitting, dynamic drum loops to fuel your next aggressive cue.

Also, check out their free VST instruments, including a free piano, nylon guitar, staccato strings, sample choir, and more. 

6. Nexus

Starter pack

Nexus is some of the most impressive music software and one of the best VSTS to own.

Many of the samples and sounds are aimed at EDM, musicians in all genres are sure to find something that piques their interest.

The basic starter package is $249 and comes with over 4000 presets and 30.5 GB of samples. The next tier up (value 10), costs $499. It has a whopping 46.6 GB of samples and 5611 presets.

Lastly, the complete package includes everything that Nexus has to offer, with 178 expansions, 28,656 presets, and an incredible 235.5 GB of samples.

Add-on expansions from Nexus are generally very impressive and useful, especially for EDM music producers, and they all cost $30 or $60 each at the time of writing. 

NEXUS4 is compatible with all your existing NEXUS projects and libraries. You can load your old beats into your DAW and load the sounds you’ve had before. Everything just works.

Advanced Librarian

  • Featuring three columns for easy navigation.
  • Counters for folders, categories, and presets to give you an overview at a glance.
  • Color-coded tags, bookmarks, favorites, and a dedicated location for user presets.
  • History function: Easily go back a step (or two, or three, or more) – and forth again if and when needed.
  • Quickly find what you’re looking for with instant sound preview, search-while-you-type, filter by category and tags, and so much more.

Arpeggiator Deluxe

  • Access all sixteen-layer arpeggiators, in addition to the main arpeggiator.
  • Never lose track of what’s happening with the fully interactive, zoomed-out overview at the top.
  • When zoomed in, the new “follow” option always scrolls with the playback.
  • Extend the pattern length up to 256 steps and play the most complex patterns you can come up with.
  • Editing has never been so comfortable. This is the best Arpeggiator you can find on the market!

Routing Redefined

  • Full visualization of the signal flow allows for quick edits. You see what you hear and you hear what you see.
  • Edit oscillators, layers, and FX, all on one page. No clicking back and forth countless times to get to the desired result.
  • Enable or disable entire layers with one click or play around with individual effects and oscillators.
  • This enables you to split complex SQ sequences into their components and single out individual sounds (just the bass, for instance) to easily create your own melodies.

7. Soothe 2 by oeksound – Compression

Soothe 2 by oeksound – compression

soothe 2 vst software interface


Soothe2 by oeksound is a dynamic resonance suppressor that has been lauded by professionals and amateurs alike for its ability to effortlessly eliminate harshness and overly bright top end in any instrumental or vocal signal.

It has been described as a ‘magic wand’ that covers the full frequency range, offering six versatile EQ bands, M/S processing, and envelope controls.

Soothe2 is designed to automatically and intelligently detect problem frequencies in an audio source and attenuate them quickly and transparently.

It provides excellent visual feedback about which frequencies are being attenuated and by how much, all driven by the big Depth knob. The GUI is spacious, clean, and intuitive, with simple, clear pop-ups to guide users.

The new version of Soothe2 introduces Soft and Hard modes. Soft is more subtle and transparent, while Hard is more adjustable and reactive to the incoming level. There are controls for attack and release, as well as sharpness.

Soothe2 is also praised for its ability to balance out differences in the low end, making it a versatile tool for a variety of audio processing needs. It is considered an essential mixing plugin for music producers, removing unwanted resonances with a couple of clicks and offering incredible utility controls for ultimate precision.

8. Tokyo Dawn Lab

Tokyo Dawn Labs

tokyo dawn labs vst software interface

Tokyo Dawn Labs offers a variety of VST, VST3, AU, and AAX plugins for audio recording, mixing, mastering, and restoration. TDR provides information on how to download their plugins here.   

Below is a summary and review of some of the best VSTs and products available on their website:

9. TDR Nova (FREE)

This is a parallel dynamic equalizer that appears in the familiar layout of a parametric equalizer. Each band includes a full-featured dynamics section, allowing the processor to cover a wide range of applications.

It’s designed to help with tasks like enhancing a master lacking density, adding crispiness to the drum bus, or solving a sibilance problem in your perfect take.

The user-friendly WYSIWYG drag-and-drop display paired with a classic “knob” interface gives quick and smooth access to the various parameters driving NOVA’s powerful processing capabilities.

  • Parametric equalization
  • Dynamic equalization
  • Frequency selective compression
  • Multi-band compression
  • Wideband compression

10. TDR Nova GE

TDR Nova GE includes a total of six dynamic EQ bands, each with independent dynamics processing ranging from downward compression over upward compression, and upward expansion, up to downward expansion (including gating).

It also includes powerful highpass and lowpass filters. The Nova GE 2.0 release added significant features to the processor.

TDR features a resizable plugin window, three different UI scales, “no display” mode, significant UI performance improvements, increased analyzer precision, faster reaction, and new below/above threshold switches.

11. TDR Limiter 6 GE


The TDR Limiter 6 GE is a modern dynamics compression and limiting toolkit that has received high praise from various sources for its quality, affordability, and versatility.

MusicRadar highly recommends the TDR Limiter 6 GE, stating that it is up there with the best compressors and limiters and is much cheaper than most of them.

This limiter has a great UI and workflow, per-module M/S mode, and a fantastic HF Limiter. The product also represents excellent value at under $60, making it one of the best VSTs available.

Black Tide Music considers the TDR Limiter 6 GE as a modern sound processing tool using 6 dedicated modules. They note that using these modules will help expand the range of sounds in your mix.

Each module allows for the control of different types of events from macro to micro and allows you to set the signal path. They can be combined to increase the perceived loudness of a mix while maintaining superior musical fidelity, punch, and excitement.

12. TDR Kotelnikov (FREE)

tdr kotelnikov vst software interface

‘A wideband dynamics processor combining high fidelity dynamic range control with deep musical flexibility’.

Kotelnikov has several unique features such as a proven control scheme, individual release control for peak and RMS content, an intuitive user interface, and powerful, high-precision algorithms.

The Kotelnikov compressor is described as having a “stealthy” sonic signature, meaning it can manipulate the dynamic range by dramatic amounts while carefully preserving the original tone, timbre, and punch of a musical signal.

This makes it perfectly suited for stereo bus compression as well as other critical applications, and one of the best VSTs available for free.

One of the unique features of the Kotelnikov compressor is its ability to use peak and RMS detection together at the same time, and the ability to set peak and RMS releases separately.

This allows for a very musical dynamic control, as RMS provides an average response while peak detection can generate a very fast response to short transients.

13. TDR Kotelnikov GE

The “Gentleman’s Edition” (GE) adds several improvements to the standard edition’s feature set.

The most obvious of these is intuitive access to various equal loudness workflows, the ability to specify ratio in a frequency-dependent manner, and a powerful sidechain high-pass filter allowing continuous variable access over slope and frequency.

The Yin/Yang functions allow manipulating the harmonic pattern produced during compression, and the “insane” quality mode increases processing fidelity even further.

14. TDR Molotok (FREE)

Molotok, a simplified version of TDR Molot GE, is a musically characterful dynamics processor. Meaning “Small Hammer” in Russian, Molotok provides a rich range of exciting compression colors at your fingertips.

While Molotok doesn’t emulate any “vintage” device, its sound and behavior were definitely inspired by its most interesting musical peculiarities.

This flexibility makes it a rewarding choice for almost any source in the mix, be it drums needing more crisp and impact, solidification and enrichment of vocals, or the enhancement of guitar and bass recordings of all types.

Molotok relies on the same algorithms as its larger edition, Molot GE. As with all TDR plugins, Molotok employs state-of-the-art audio processing technology keeping unwanted distortion under strict control.

An intuitive and well-documented user interface offers quick access to all relevant parameters in a rewarding manner.

Several helpers include unlimited undo/redo, optional stepped controls, inline help tips, and many more features to help the operator achieve consistent results within a short time.

Notable Features

  • Full-featured dynamics compressor
  • Eleven musically intriguing compression flavor nuances
  • Different quality modes including zero-latency operation
  • High-quality signal processing

15. TDR VOS SlickEQ (FREE)

TDR VOS SlickEQ is a mixing/mastering equalizer designed for ease of use, musical flexibility, and impeccable sound.

  • Intuitive, yet flexible semi-parametric EQ layout
  • Modern user interface with outstanding usability and ergonomics
  • Carefully designed 64bit “delta” multi-rate structure
  • Three EQ bands with an additional 18dB/Oct high-pass filter
  • Four distinct EQ models: “American”, “British”, “German” and “Soviet” with optional non-linearity
  • Five output stages: “Linear”, “Silky”, “Mellow”, “Deep” and “Toasted”
  • Advanced saturation algorithms by VoS (“Stateful saturation”)
  • Highly effective and musically pleasing loudness compensated auto gain control
  • Stereo and sum/difference processing options
  • Tool-bar with undo/redo, A/B, advanced preset management and more

16. TDR VOS SlickEQ – GE

Takes SlickEQ‘s concept to new heights and adds an exotic Tilt-filter flanked by flexible low-pass and high-pass filters.

Five distinct EQ models provide a rich set of predefined EQ curves and behaviors for the three main semi-parametric filter bands.

Slick EQ for mastering is also available.

More VST plugins are available from TDR, including:

  • TDR SimuLathe REF: complete simulation of the disk mastering process ($166)
  • TDR SimuLathe CUT: precise simulation of the disk mastering process($267)
  • OD DeEdger: Controls the hardness of audio material while preserving dynamic impact and musicality ($110)
  • TDR Molotok: Dynamics processor (free)
  • TDR Molot GE: Dynamics processor ($55)

17. Neve 1073 by Universal Audio


The Neve 1073 plugin by UAD, officially known as the UAD Neve 1073 Preamp & EQ Collection, is a highly acclaimed piece of audio software that stands out in the crowded market of digital plugins.

It is universally praised for its faithful recreation of the classic Neve 1073 preamp and EQ, offering an unparalleled level of warmth and depth to your recordings.

The sound quality of the UAD Neve 1073 plugin is exceptional. It does an excellent job of emulating the rich, harmonic character and analog warmth that the original Neve 1073 is known for.

Whether you’re tracking vocals, guitars, or drums, this plugin adds a beautiful coloration that can make any source sound better.

The EQ section of the UAD Neve 1073 is another highlight. It offers a broad range of tonal shaping options, from subtle enhancements to more drastic changes.

The high and low shelving EQs, along with the mid-band, provide a musical touch that can help any mix stand out.

The UAD Neve 1073 Preamp & EQ Collection is a top-notch plugin that faithfully recreates the sound of one of the most revered preamps and EQs in history.

18. FabFilter Total Bundle

fabfilter bundle vst software

Fabfilter Total Bundle ($899)

The FabFilter Total Bundle, priced at $899, is a comprehensive collection of all FabFilter plugins. With the bundle, you get access to a wide range of highly-regarded professional quality sound processing tools.

The bundle includes the Pro-L 2, Pro-MB, Pro-Q 3, and Pro-C 2 plugins, among others. These plugins are designed to provide you with a complete toolkit for mixing, mastering, sound design, and music production.

Pro-L 2

The included Pro-L 2 is a peak limiter designed to deal with unwanted loud dynamic bursts.

It comes with eight limiting algorithms, each dealing with different issues, including a mode that irons out all the distortion during digital-to-analog conversion.

Pro-MB

The Pro-MB is a potent compressor and expander, capable of dealing with both individual tracks and entire mixes. Its main strength comes with the possibility to compress with different intensities over the audible spectrum.

Pro-Q 3

The Pro-Q 3 is a state-of-the-art equalizer plugin. It’s very good at helping you single out those “bad” frequencies in your audio files, and the “Dynamic EQ” mode enables you to keep every track and instrument in their respective sonic territories.

Pro-C 2

Lastly, the Pro-C 2 is a professional compressor plugin that allows easy tweaking thanks to its meticulously designed graphical interface.

Overall

The plugins in the FabFilter Total Bundle are known for their high-quality sound, innovative interface, and advanced features. They are well-regarded in the industry and highly regarded by users.

While the price point is high, the quality and versatility of the plugins make it a worthwhile investment for serious music producers and audio engineers.

Also, many of the plugins from Fabfilter are available as a 30-day free trial, so you can see how awesome they are before you make a purchase! 

19. The Fabfilter Creative Bundle

fabfilter creative vst software interface

The FabFilter Creative Bundle is a collection of four inspiring plugins, including distortion/saturation, stereo delay, filter effects, and a synthesizer. The bundle includes FabFilter Saturn 2, which provides unique distortion models and per-band controls.

FabFilter Twin 2 is a powerful synthesizer with a user-friendly interface and extensive modulation options. FabFilter Timeless 3 is a vintage tape delay with five effects and six analog-sounding filters, offering versatile modulation possibilities.

FabFilter Volcano 3 features analog-sounding filters, flexible routing, and new EQ-type filter shapes. The plugins provide various interface sizes, full-screen mode, improved sound quality, live modulation visualization, and interactive MIDI learning

They also support undo/redo, and A/B switch features, and have a High-Quality option for maximum oversampling.

The Creative Bundle by FabFilter is available for both MacOS and Windows. After purchase, users receive a license key via email, unlocking the downloaded plugins with full support and access to updates.

The Pro-Q 3 is designed to help you achieve your desired sound in the quickest way possible. It allows you to create bands where you need them, enable dynamic EQ for any band, and select and edit multiple bands at once.

Unique features like Spectrum Grab, Full Screen mode, and EQ Match are designed to speed up your workflow.

It also includes all the usual FabFilter goodies: perfectly tuned knobs, interactive MIDI Learn, undo/redo and A/B switch, Smart Parameter Interpolation for smooth parameter transitions, and more.

Other features include frequency collision indication, mid-side, stereo, and left-right placements, and a display that can be made full-screen. It also supports stereo, mono, and surround channel layouts (up to Dolby Atmos 7.1.2).

21. FabFilter Pro-R

FabFilter Pro-R vst software interface

FabFilter Pro-R is a high-end reverb plug-in with natural sound, musical controls, and innovations like the unique Decay Rate EQ to shape the reverb’s character.

The Pro-R is designed with an ergonomic user interface, steering away from the appearance of an analog unit and opting for a more scientific GUI. It features a frequency spectrum-style display and an EQ curve, overlaid with a blue decay rate curve.

It also offers a stepless Space control that allows you to fade between different room models, automatically choosing a matching decay time for a natural-sounding result. 

22. FabFilter Pro-L 2

FabFilter Pro-L 2 vst software interface

The Pro-L 2 has several enhancements over its predecessor, including new processing algorithms and true-peak limiting.

The three new limiting algorithms cover more situations and showcase the flexibility of Pro-L 2. The Modern algorithm retains snap and attack while avoiding overloads.

The Bus setting is more evident to the ears but better suited for stem work, and Safe mode means no distortion, ever.

The Pro-L 2 is designed to sound great for every genre and includes comprehensive loudness metering. It also offers a 30-day free trial.

The plugin has a 4k display and a full-screen mode for larger screens. It also includes dithering and noise shaping, and MIDI learning lets you link MIDI devices to the Pro L2. The plugin is also noted for its new widescreen GUI and three new view modes for the central-level display.

The Pro-L 2 is a comprehensive and sometimes complex limiter. As far as limiters go, this one seems to have the most functionality and flexibility compared to its competitors. 

23. FabFilter Pro-C 2

FabFilter Pro-C 2 vst software interface

The Pro-C 2 offers eight different, program-dependent compression styles, each with its unique sound and character.

It also includes features such as smooth lookahead, up to 4x oversampling, intelligent auto-gain and auto-release, a variable knee, hold, range, external side-chain triggering, variable stereo linking, and mid/side processing.

All of these features are packed into a beautiful Retina user interface.

The user interface of the Pro-C 2 is one of its standout features. It is larger and easier to navigate than its predecessor, and it provides real-time displays that greatly improve workflow.

The large animated level/knee display visualizes exactly when, why, and how compression is applied to incoming audio.

The Pro-C 2 also includes a vastly improved side-chain EQ, which offers a third band to handle the midrange, creating flexibility in targeting frequencies for de-essing, de-harshing, or simply emphasizing the signal you’d like to drive to your compressor.

24. FabFilter Pro-MB

FabFilter Pro-MB vst software interface

The FabFilter Pro-MB is a multiband dynamics processing tool that is both powerful and intuitive. It is designed to make multiband compression and expansion easier to set up and control.

The Pro-MB is praised for its innovative approach to multiband dynamics processing, offering a unique Dynamic Phase processing mode that has virtually the same frequency response as traditional multiband processing, but without latency or pre-ringing.

The Pro-MB is also lauded for its sound quality, with users noting that it sounds different from the competition right from the start, providing an unobstructed and very clean sound.

It is also appreciated for its clean interface, with a fresh instance of the plug-in being free of any active processing bands, allowing users to opt-in to applying detailed dynamics processing.

25. FabFilter Pro-DS

FabFilter Pro-DS vst software interface

The ‘Allround’ mode is also mentioned as a great tool for high-frequency limiting of any material.

The FabFilter Pro-DS is highly regarded as a de-esser plugin due to its advanced features, ease of use, and the quality of results it produces.

It is praised for its intelligent and transparent sibilance detection and attenuation, as well as its versatility in dealing with the high-frequency limiting of various materials. 

26. FabFilter Pro G

FabFilter Pro-G vst software interface

The plugin is known for its excellent sound and flexible routing options. Users can choose between mono, stereo, or mid/side processing, and in expert mode, external side chain input is available with completely customizable channel linking and routing.

The FabFilter Pro-G also features smart input/output level meters with a real-time level display and transfer curve, designed to provide clear feedback on the current gate/expander settings and processing, making setup easy.

Additional features include six meticulously tuned expander/gate algorithms, program-dependent attack and release curves, low CPU usage, adjustable range, hold time and knee settings, and an optional look-ahead time of up to 10 ms.

The plugin also offers MIDI Learn, Smart Parameter Interpolation for smooth parameter transitions, and an excellent help file with interactive help hints.

27. Fabfilter Saturn 2

FabFilter Saturn 2 is a versatile distortion and saturation plugin that offers high-quality models and FX styles. It features a multi-band design, modulation options, and per-band controls.

The adjustable slope crossovers, HQ modes, and redesigned interface with live modulation visualization enhance its capabilities. It supports Pro Tools hardware, has interactive MIDI Learn, and offers carefully curated presets.

The plugin provides undo/redo and A/B switch features and is part of the Mixing Bundle, which is essential for mixing engineers.

Saturn 2 introduces significant modulation enhancements, offering precise control with versatile sources like Envelope, XY Controller, and MIDI.

The plugin provides mastering-grade ‘Subtle’ saturation, diverse distortion options, and up to six processing bands with variable crossover slopes.

28. Fabfilter Timeless 3


FabFilter Timeless 3 is a versatile delay plugin ideal for music production and mixing. The latest version offers enhanced sound quality and a user-friendly interface with up to 6 filters and 16 delay taps.

Notable features include a ping-pong mode and five new effects like Drive, Lo-Fi, Diffusion, Dynamics, and Pitch Shift.

The update also includes interactive displays, a Stereo Width control, a Mix slider, and live modulation visualization.

Envelope generators feature curve slope settings, and Timeless 3 supports Transient mode for envelope followers. XY controllers increase to 6, and modulation sources can be renamed.

The plugin is available in various formats and has new factory presets. It provides support for both Windows and macOS, and users can load presets from previous versions.

This plugin supports hiding modulation sources, interface resizing, and Full-Screen mode.

29. Fabfilter Volcano 3

FabFilter Volcano 3 is a renowned filter plugin known for its vintage-sounding, gritty, and creamy cut-off filters. It offers top-notch creative filtering with new non-linear filter shapes and a redesigned, user-friendly interface.

The plugin features four analog-sounding filters with flexible routing, offering various filter shapes, saturation, and self-oscillation at high peak settings.

With easy drag-and-drop modulation, Volcano 3 provides endless possibilities for modulation connections.

The update introduces new EQ-type filter shapes, a pre-filter Drive setting, improved sound quality, live modulation visualization, and a High-Quality option, among other enhancements.

FabFilter Volcano 3 Update

The latest version of FabFilter Volcano 3 introduces a completely redesigned interface with new non-linear filter shapes, providing creative filtering options.

It offers easy drag-and-drop modulation, featuring XLFOs, envelope generators, envelope followers, and MIDI sources for endless possibilities.

With its improved sound quality, real-time modulation visualization, and High-Quality mode, Volcano 3 becomes a must-have for users seeking characterful all-in-one filter solutions. It supports various platforms and offers a free 30-day trial.

30. Fabfilter Twin 3

FabFilter Twin 3 is an impressive virtual analog synth known for its massive sound, excellent sound design capabilities, and powerful modulation system. It offers hands-on tweaking options and a redesigned GUI, making it a fantastic update.

The synth’s high-quality filters, effects, and real-time manipulation capabilities make it a sound design dream. It delivers immense and punchy sounds, is suitable for various genres, and integrates well into music mixes.

With a user-friendly interface and a wide range of features, Twin 3 stands out as a powerful tool for sound designers and music producers. Its compatibility with different platforms adds to its appeal.

FabFilter Twin Update

The major upgrade of FabFilter Twin 3 features a redesigned GUI, four oscillators with new poly mode and modeled drift, and enhanced modulation options.

The polyphony is increased to 64 voices, and the filters are upgraded to four with new vintage-style types and modulatable knobs.

The FX section offers six modules, and a creative arpeggiator is introduced. The modulation features see improvements like a new transient mode and curve adjustment handles.

The preset browser receives a makeover with tags, favorites, search, and import functions. Twin 3 is a top choice for music producers and is compatible with macOS and Windows.

31. Fabfilter One

fabfilter one vst software interface

FabFilter One features a fat and smooth self-oscillating digital filter and an oscillator that offers triangle, sawtooth, and square waveforms with pulse width modulation. Modulation options are expanded through the LFO and EG.

This plug-in excels in attention to detail, including a refined portamento feature and smart parameter interpolation for smooth transitions. With sample accuracy, automation, and MIDI control support, FabFilter One provides high-quality sound.

Features

It also offers various features like filter keyboard tracking, velocity sensitivity, 10-voice polyphony, and over 100 presets. It comes in multiple formats and is part of the Total Bundle, which includes a comprehensive collection of FabFilter plug-ins.

The high-quality oscillator, free from aliasing, offers sawtooth, triangle, and square waveforms with pulse width modulation. LFO and EG modulations provide creative options, with the ability to synchronize tempo to the host.

FabFilter One handles parameter changes with sample accuracy and supports arbitrary sample rates. It is fully automatable within the user’s preferred host and comes with an extensive help file for guidance.

32. Fabfilter Simplon

fabfilter simplon vst software interface

FabFilter Simplon is a simplified version of FabFilter Volcano, featuring two independent multimode filters with low-pass, high-pass, and band-pass responses.

The filters offer three distinct characteristics, ranging from smooth to raw and self-oscillating, providing up to 27 filter types by combining response and slope settings.

The plugin includes a large interactive filter display for easy tweaking and adjustment. It also provides MIDI Learn, Smart Parameter Interpolation, undo/redo, presets, and sample-accurate automation.

Available in various formats for both Windows and macOS platforms, it is a user-friendly filter plug-in that offers the classic FabFilter sound.

33. Fabfilter Micro

fabfilter micro vst software interface

FabFilter Micro is a lightweight, affordable filter plugin that offers the classic FabFilter sound. It features a unique resonating, screaming, and saturating filter, along with low-pass and high-pass filter shapes.

The plugin includes an adjustable envelope follower that modulates the filter frequency based on the incoming audio signal, allowing for creative filter effects.

It also provides individual Input Gain and Output Gain controls for full saturation control. The plugin includes interactive MIDI Learn, Smart Parameter Interpolation, undo/redo features, and a flexible preset system, making it a versatile tool for various audio processing needs.

FabFilter Micro is available in VST, VST3, AU, AAX Native, and AudioSuite formats. It is compatible with Windows and macOS.

FAQ

What Is a VST?

VST, short for Virtual Studio Technology, is a term that essentially refers to the digital replication of the technology used in music production or mixing studios.

As the world of music production evolves, many creators are transitioning from traditional, hands-on methods to a more digitized approach, primarily working within digital audio workstations (DAWs) on their computers.

VSTs come in two primary forms: instruments and effects. Instrument VSTs are essentially digital libraries of various instruments such as pianos, orchestras, synthesizers, and more.

Some are even specifically designed for certain instruments like drums. On the other hand, effect VSTs are digital recreations of studio mixing gear and effects like compressors, equalizers, and reverbs.

The modern music producer often relies heavily on these tools, as they allow for a more streamlined and accessible approach to music creation and mixing.

Conclusion

If you are looking to make professional music and want your final mixes to be of the highest quality, consider purchasing some high-quality VSTS!

I worked hard to compile the list of excellent pay-to-own VST instruments and effects plugins in this article, and I hope you found it useful! Happy composing and producing!

Daniel Forino
Daniel Forino
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