Transform your tracks with these must-have VST plugins for synths, drums, guitars & bass, vocals, and mixing. Whether you’re starting out or have years of experience, this guide helps you find the right tools—free or paid—to suit your budget and workflow. From powerful synths to mixing essentials, discover how these plugins can bring out the best in your tracks.
- What are VST plugins?
- Where to download plugins?
- How to install VST plugins
- Synth VST plugins
- Drum Plugins
- Guitar & Bass Plugins
- Vocal Plugins
- Mixing Plugins
- Emerging trends in VST plugins for 2024
- Learn production, songwriting, recording & more
What are VST plugins?
For those new to music production, VST plugins are software tools that emulate instruments, effects, or processors within your DAW (Digital Audio Workstation). They’re essential for producing everything from lush synth pads to pristine vocal mixes.
► ARTMASTER TIP: If you want to find out more about DAWs (including recommendations) as well as setting up MIDI, check out our Essential tools for home music production.
Where to download plugins?
Before we get to our extensive list of plugins, knowing a few reliable and legal sources to find the right tools can be really useful (all specific links to individual plugins below).
Reliable sources
Native Instruments – Known for their high-quality instruments and effects, you’ll find some of the best paid and free plugins here.
Splice – A rent-to-own option for premium plugins like Serum or Ozone, ideal if you want to spread the cost over time.
KVR Audio – A treasure trove of plugins, with a mix of free and paid options to suit all budgets and styles.
How to install VST plugins
Once you have your plugin of choice, they either come with an installer or you can simply download them and drag them into the plugin folder of your computer. It doesn't matter which DAW you are using, the folder is almost always the same.
Windows: Drop your plugins into C:/Program Files/VSTPlugins and refresh your DAW to make them available.
Mac: Place plugins in Library/Audio/Plugins and run a rescan in your DAW settings.
Synth VST plugins
I love playing synth and can spend hours experimenting and playing around with sounds. For me, synth plugins are where the magic happens, and with them, you can create everything from rich pads to driving basslines and soaring leads. Here’s a mix of paid and free synth plugins that are easy to use and packed with creative potential, no matter your style or budget.
Top paid synth VST plugins
Serum is widely regarded as a modern classic in wavetable synthesis. Its visual workflow makes sound design accessible, even for beginners, while advanced users can delve into endless modulation possibilities. The real-time oscillator display helps you fine-tune your creations, making it an excellent tool for genres like EDM, trap, and ambient. Its seamless integration with FL Studio and other DAWs ensures you can work efficiently without any technical headaches.
Omnisphere isn’t just a synth—it’s a complete sound design toolkit. With over 14,000 sounds, its dual-layer architecture allows you to blend sampled instruments with synthesis for unique textures. Features like granular synthesis and live sampling make it perfect for cinematic scoring, but it’s equally suited for modern beats or lush ambient tracks.
Phase Plant is a modular synthesizer that lets you build custom signal chains from scratch. It supports multiple synthesis methods, including wavetable, subtractive, and granular, making it highly versatile. Its interface encourages creativity by giving users control over routing, modulation, and effects in a logical and visually appealing way. It’s perfect for producers who want complete freedom to experiment.
► ARTMASTER TIP: If you want to add realistic orchestral sounds to your tracks, read our guide - Top libraries and VSTs for orchestral music production - or try our Orchestral Music Production course by movie trailer composer Alex Moukala.
Best free synth VST plugins
Vital offers advanced spectral warping synthesis in a user-friendly package. Comparable to Serum in quality, it features a clean interface with drag-and-drop modulation, visual feedback, and a growing library of free presets. Whether you’re crafting deep basslines or lush pads, Vital provides all the tools you need, making it a standout choice for budget-conscious producers.
This open-source powerhouse combines subtractive, FM, and wavetable synthesis modes with a robust modulation engine. With over 2,000 presets, it’s ready to use out of the box, while its advanced capabilities invite experimentation. Surge XT’s hybrid synthesis approach makes it perfect for any genre, and its open-source nature ensures regular updates and a supportive community of users.
Dexed faithfully emulates the Yamaha DX7, delivering iconic FM tones from the 80s. It’s perfect for creating glassy electric pianos, bell-like textures, or retro synth basses. Compatible with thousands of classic DX7 patches available online, it’s a must-have for producers seeking authentic vintage sounds without breaking the bank.
This analog-style synth is simple but effective, offering a clean interface and high-quality oscillators. Ideal for beginners, it features built-in effects like reverb and delay, making it a great choice for crafting pads, leads, or atmospheric textures without needing additional plugins.
For fans of modular synthesis, VCV Rack is a dream come true. It simulates the experience of hardware modular synths, complete with patch cables and customizable modules. Whether you’re into experimental soundscapes or classic synth design, VCV Rack provides endless possibilities for free. Pair it with a VST bridge to integrate it into your DAW seamlessly.
► ARTMASTER TIP: Want to improve your keyboard skills and make your tracks sound more natural? For practical techniques that you can apply right away, try out ArtMaster's Piano for Producers course, free, as part of our 7-day trial.
Drum Plugins
Drums form the heartbeat of your music, whether you're programming dance beats, creating gritty lo-fi rhythms, or crafting punchy rock/metal drum tracks. The right drum VST plugins can take your productions from good to great.
Top Paid Drum VST Plugins
Battery 4 by Native Instruments
Battery 4 is a versatile drum sampler that caters to all types of producers, from electronic music creators to those more into a live sound. It offers a grid-based interface with customizable cells for arranging drum kits and triggering samples. Its precision editing tools let you manipulate pitch, envelope, and layering, while the built-in effects allow you to shape your sounds further. It integrates seamlessly with Native Instruments VST plugins, making it a staple for professionals seeking precision and flexibility.
XO revolutionizes sample organization by mapping your drum library into a visually intuitive “sample space.” The AI-driven algorithm groups similar sounds together, so you can quickly find the perfect sample. It’s not just about finding sounds—it also features a powerful sequencer and groove editing tools, allowing you to create dynamic drum patterns effortlessly.
Drum Monkey takes drum programming to the next level with its AI-powered beat generator. Choose your genre, and it will create loops tailored to your needs. The plugin offers detailed editing options, so you can tweak every aspect of the generated patterns. With its expansive library of presets, it’s ideal for producers who want fast, professional-sounding drums for genres like hip-hop, EDM, and trap.
Best free drum VST plugins
LABS Drums delivers high-quality acoustic drum samples with a natural and dynamic feel. Recorded in professional studios, it’s perfect for creating realistic drum tracks for genres like indie, rock, or acoustic pop. The minimalist interface makes it easy to use, and its expressive sound stands out even in professional mixes.
Sitala is a straightforward drum sampler that focuses on speed and simplicity. With six tweakable parameters per pad, you can quickly shape your sounds without getting bogged down in complexity.
CHOW Kick is a dedicated kick drum synthesizer that excels at creating deep, punchy sounds. It uses analog-style processing to craft kicks that work well in bass-heavy genres like techno, D&B and hip-hop. Its customizable controls let you shape the transient, body, and decay for kicks that cut through any mix.
MiniSpillage is a compact drum synth offering three high-quality drum synthesis models: bass drum, wood drum, and hi-hat. Despite its simplicity, it delivers professional results with minimal CPU usage, making it a great choice for electronic producers looking for a free and efficient solution.
SUB emulates classic analog drum machines with a modern twist. Its retro-inspired sounds are perfect for adding grit and character to your tracks. With built-in effects like saturation and distortion, it’s an excellent tool for creating lo-fi beats or adding texture to electronic music.
► ARTMASTER TIP: Ever wondered what a music producer does? Music production is the artistry that transforms ideas into polished tracks. Check out our guide — How to become a music producer.
Guitar & Bass Plugins
Not everyone can pick up a guitar or bass and nail the perfect performance. Maybe you don’t play the instrument, don’t have access to quality gear, or just want to experiment with tones that would take a full studio setup to achieve. That’s where guitar and bass VST plugins step in.
These tools let you add realistic acoustic strumming, searing solos, or deep bass grooves to your tracks—all without needing to play the instrument yourself. They’re perfect for producers who want the sound without the learning curve or those who want to try ideas before bringing in a live musician.
Top paid guitar & bass VST plugins
AmpliTube 5 offers a complete virtual guitar rig, emulating amps, cabinets, mics, and pedals with impressive realism. It’s packed with over 400 gear models, including classics like Fender and Mesa/Boogie. The advanced cabinet simulation allows you to adjust mic placement and room acoustics, making it ideal for producing tones tailored to your tracks. Whether you're recording a warm jazz solo or a roaring metal riff, AmpliTube 5 delivers studio-quality sound. Its custom shop also lets you buy only the gear you need, keeping your setup flexible.
Guitar Rig 7 by Native Instruments
A modular playground for guitarists and producers, Guitar Rig 7 provides an extensive collection of amp models and effects. It excels in genres like ambient music, thanks to its lush reverbs and delays, while also catering to rock and metal with high-gain amp options. The interface encourages experimentation—combine amps, cabinets, and effects to build unique tones. With its crisp sound quality and intuitive design, Guitar Rig 6 is a must-have for creating everything from subtle textures to powerful riffs.
Trilian is the go-to for bass enthusiasts, offering acoustic, electric, and synth bass options with unparalleled detail. Its extensive library includes articulations like slides, harmonics, and ghost notes, making it incredibly realistic. Whether you’re producing funk, jazz, electronic, or rock, Trilian’s deep integration with MIDI controllers allows for expressive performances. Producers love its hybrid approach, blending sampled and modelled bass tones for a mix-ready sound right out of the box.
Best free guitar & bass VST plugins
LABS Guitars by Spitfire Audio
Spitfire Audio’s LABS Guitars offers high-quality sampled acoustic and electric guitar sounds. From delicate fingerpicking to full-bodied chords, this plugin captures the nuances of real guitar performances. While the interface is minimal, the sounds are rich and dynamic, making it an excellent choice for adding authentic guitar layers to your tracks.
Ample Guitar M Lite II by Ample Sound
This free acoustic guitar plugin is remarkably detailed, with multiple playing techniques such as strumming, hammer-ons, and pull-offs. Its built-in strum pattern editor allows for realistic rhythm parts, making it perfect for folk, pop, and indie tracks. The bright, clean tone of Ample Guitar M Lite II stands out, even when layered in dense mixes.
The Emissary is a free amp simulator designed with precision and versatility in mind. It features two channels—clean and high-gain—making it suitable for a range of styles, from blues to heavy metal. Pair it with your favourite impulse responses (IRs) to customize the cabinet sound and achieve a professional tone.
Modelled after the iconic SansAmp Bass Driver, this plugin brings warmth and drive to basslines. It’s perfect for adding grit to rock tracks or enhancing the low-end punch in funk and electronic music. Simple controls make it easy to dial in anything from subtle saturation to aggressive distortion.
Bassline by AIR Music Technology
Bassline offers a no-frills approach to creating analog-style bass sounds. It’s ideal for producers looking to lay down solid grooves in house, techno, or hip-hop. Its straightforward interface lets you shape the tone quickly, while its rich sound ensures your basslines cut through the mix.
► ARTMASTER TIP: If you can't play guitar yourself, why not give it a go? You'll get a more authentic sound and it's much easier than you think. Try out our Electric Guitar for Beginners course with Dre DiMura (120M TikTok views) or if you can already play, our more advanced courses on Color Chords and Guitar Soloing.
Vocal Plugins
I don’t consider myself much of a singer, but in my band, I’ve definitely leaned on auto-tune to polish a vocal track or two. Vocals are often the centerpiece, but not every singer or recording session delivers perfection. That’s where vocal VST plugins come in. Whether you’re fine-tuning a pitchy take, adding creative vocoder effects, or simply giving a vocal track more presence, these tools help shape a professional sound without hours of manual editing.
Top paid vocal VST plugins
Auto-Tune Pro remains a staple for pitch correction and vocal tuning. Whether you need subtle adjustments to perfect a performance or want the recognizable Auto-Tune effect for creative purposes, this plugin excels. Its real-time processing is ideal for both studio recordings and live performances, while Flex-Tune ensures natural-sounding corrections.
Melodyne is renowned for its advanced pitch and timing correction capabilities. Its DNA (Direct Note Access) technology allows users to edit individual notes in polyphonic recordings, making it ideal for harmonies and intricate vocal arrangements. Whether you’re fixing a performance or experimenting with creative vocal manipulations, Melodyne delivers results without compromising the natural tone of the voice.
Nectar 4 provides an all-encompassing suite for vocal processing. With tools like EQ, compression, reverb, and delay, it’s designed to simplify vocal production. The Vocal Assistant feature analyzes audio and suggests tailored settings, making it a time-saver for producers.
Best free vocal VST plugins
Graillon 2 is a versatile pitch correction tool that doubles as a creative effect plugin. It can be used to refine vocal pitch subtly or achieve robotic, Auto-Tune-inspired effects. Its harmonizing and pitch-shifting features make it a favorite for electronic and hip-hop producers looking to add layers or unique vocal textures.
TAL-Vocoder offers the classic vocoder sound, blending vocals with synthetic textures for retro and experimental styles. It features a built-in synthesizer for added flexibility, making it an excellent choice for producers who want to create robotic or futuristic effects in their tracks.
Spitfish by Digital Fish Phones
Spitfish is a straightforward de-esser designed to eliminate harsh sibilance from vocal recordings. Its simplicity makes it easy to use, even for beginners, while still delivering professional results. Perfect for taming sharp "S" sounds, it’s a must-have for achieving clean, balanced vocal tracks.
Vocal Doubler enhances vocal tracks by simulating the natural variation of double-tracked recordings. It adds width and depth to vocals, making them stand out in a mix. This plugin is particularly useful for choruses or lead vocals that need a fuller, more dynamic sound.
ChowTape adds warmth and character to vocal recordings with its analog-style tape saturation. Whether you’re producing lo-fi tracks or looking to give your vocals a vintage feel, this plugin delivers a touch of grit and warmth that can transform a clean vocal take into something truly unique.
► ARTMASTER TIP: Think you can’t sing? Vocal coach and pro singer, Stevvi Alexander will show you that with practice, anyone can learn to sing👇 (even if you think you can sing, there are plenty of exercises and tips to help you grow).
Mixing Plugins
I've recently been mixing and mastering for the first time in years and it's been a real re-learning curve. Mixing plugins are essential to shape the tone, dynamics, and balance of your tracks. From precise EQ adjustments to dynamic compression and stereo imaging, these tools will help your mix sounds its best.
Top paid mixing VST plugins
FabFilter Pro-Q 3 stands out as one of the most versatile and intuitive EQ plugins available. Its dynamic EQ functionality allows precise frequency adjustments that adapt to your audio’s changing dynamics. With features like mid/side processing, real-time spectral analysis, and up to 24 EQ bands, this plugin is a favorite for crafting detailed, balanced mixes. It’s particularly useful for surgical corrections and tonal shaping.
Neutron 5 simplifies the mixing process with its AI-powered tools. The Mix Assistant analyzes your tracks and suggests EQ, compression, and balance adjustments. Its transient shaping and exciter modules add energy and color where needed. Neutron 5 is ideal for busy producers, offering a streamlined workflow without compromising on quality.
This iconic bus compressor is known for adding cohesion and punch to mixes. Often referred to as the "glue" that holds tracks together, it’s perfect for drum busses, mix busses, and even individual elements. Its classic sound and smooth dynamics make it a must-have for achieving that polished, professional feel in your mixes.
Best free mixing VST plugins
TDR Nova is a dynamic EQ that combines the functionality of a parametric equalizer with a multiband compressor. It excels in both subtle tonal adjustments and precise problem-solving, such as removing background noise or resonances. Its versatility makes it a reliable choice for any mix engineer.
SPAN is a real-time spectrum analyzer that offers invaluable insights into your mix’s frequency balance. Whether you’re adjusting low-end mud or ensuring a bright top end, this plugin provides visual feedback that’s easy to interpret. It’s an essential tool for mastering and refining your sound.
Rough Rider 3 is a character compressor that adds warmth and punch, especially on drums and percussion. Its aggressive compression style is perfect for giving your beats energy and presence. While not subtle, it excels at creating bold, dynamic sounds.
Limiter №6 by Vladislav Goncharov
Limiter №6 is more than just a limiter; it’s a comprehensive dynamics processor with five stages, including a compressor, limiter, and clipper. Its transparency and flexibility make it a valuable tool for both mixing and mastering.
MCompressor by MeldaProduction
MCompressor offers an intuitive interface with adjustable curves and advanced parameters. It’s a versatile option for subtle dynamic control or more aggressive compression, making it suitable for a variety of mixing scenarios.
Emerging trends in VST plugins for 2024
So what's next? Keeping up with the latest trends in VST plugins is always a good move, especially with new tools constantly emerging. This year, a few key innovations are making waves and redefining how music is created—they’re definitely worth a closer look.
AI-Powered plugins: Smarter tools for music production
Imagine a plugin that not only analyzes your track but suggests ways to improve it. That’s exactly what tools like iZotope Neutron and Ozone are doing. These AI-powered plugins take the guesswork out of tasks like EQ, compression, and mastering by offering real-time adjustments tailored to your music.
For example, Ozone’s AI mastering assistant can recommend settings to give your track more clarity and balance, whether you're working on a dance beat or an acoustic ballad. It’s like having an experienced engineer in your corner, saving you time and helping you learn as you go.
► ARTMASTER TIP: Not every track needs the same treatment. Use AI tools as a guide, but trust your ears—your intuition is part of the magic.
Streaming and content creation plugins
These days, musicians are creators in more ways than one. If you’re producing music and sharing it online—whether on YouTube, Twitch, or elsewhere—plugins designed for streaming can make all the difference. Tools like Elgato’s and OBS’s VST integrations allow you to polish your live sound with compression, EQ, and noise reduction, ensuring your audience hears you at your best.
Even for pre-recorded videos, these plugins help bridge the gap between professional audio production and easy setup. They’re perfect for creators juggling music, podcasts, or gaming streams.
Cross-platform compatibility
Another exciting shift is the growing flexibility in how and where plugins can be used. Many developers are ensuring their tools work seamlessly across platforms like macOS, Windows, and even Linux. Some, like VCV Rack, offer standalone versions that integrate into your DAW while also functioning independently.
This trend makes it easier for producers to collaborate without worrying about software compatibility, or to switch between devices without losing functionality.
► ARTMASTER TIP: AI isn’t just reshaping VST plugins—it’s revolutionizing music education too. Tools like our Artie AI music teacher will provide personalized lessons and real-time feedback, making it easier than ever to hone your skills and create music that stands out. Find out more about the future of music education.
Pre-register for Artie today!
Learn production, songwriting, recording & more
Hopefully you'll enjoy experimenting with some of these cool VST plugins, but why not go deeper into music production with a free 7-day trial at ArtMaster.com? You can try out our expert-led courses covering everything from recording techniques and songwriting to mastering orchestral arrangements or nailing authentic guitar, bass, and keyboard performances.
Start Your 7-Day Free Trial
