Best Free Orchestra Vst Plugins
- Best Free Orchestra Vst Plugins Music
- Edirol Orchestral Vst Plugin
- Best Free Orchestra Vst Plugins 1
- Best Free Orchestra Vst Plugins Software
Best Orchestral VST Plugins & Libraries. In this article, we’re going to take a look at the five best orchestral VSTs on the market today and evaluate them with the sample-based producer in mind. Garritan Personal Orchestra 5. Garritan Personal Orchestra has been launched in 2004. MACHINE LICENSE: This activation option is FREE. You can deposit the software license on the computer where you’re running the software. You don’t need an additional iLok USB device. All you need is a valid account on www.ilok.com and the free iLok license manager software.
Shaping up a perfect synth is indeed not a child’s play, but the work got simplified a lot by Free VST plugins. Many VST plugins released in a couple of years, encloses innovative features.
However, if you feel stuck in between multiple free vst plugins on the internet and want to know about the top VST plugins straight then here is the list for you. Save your valuable time and energy from this tiresome work.
How to Download Free VST Plugins?
These plugins are available on the internet for free. So, let’s begin the list of ten most awesome VST plugins you can install on your DAW.
Top 10 Free VST Plugins Free Download
Here is the quick rundown of Vst Plugins available in the market for free.
VST Plugin | Plugin Maker | Download |
---|---|---|
Tal-Bassline | Tal Software | CLick here » |
PHASIS Phase Plugin | Native Instruments | CLick here » |
Dexed – FM Plugin Synth | Dexed | CLick here » |
Synth1 | Ichiro Toda | CLick here » |
Rivera VST Plugin | NuSpace Audio | CLick here » |
Freq Echo | Valhalla DSP | CLick here » |
MT POWER DRUMKIT 2 | Manda Audio | CLick here » |
SYNISTER | Marc | CLick here » |
TDR – Proximity | Tokyo Dawn Records | CLick here » |
AMPLE GUITAR M LITE II | Ample Sounds | CLick here » |
1. Tal-Bassline
The list starts with the VST synthesizer Tal-Bassline made to get a warm and analog sound.
This VST plugin specialized in adding a heavy bass, acid sound and effects. With the help it’s -18db low pass filter and the unique components, you can create Trap and EDM synth effortlessly.
2. PHASIS Phase Plugin
Phasis launched by Native Instruments is a phaser effect plugin which assists multiple innovative features.
It let you add creative magic to your synth by employing rate, spread, mix, and notch controls.
It is possible to get high modulation rate for modulating the frequency by using the ultra-switch
3. Dexed – FM Plugin Synth
As a frequency modulation synth, Dexed performance is somewhere close to the iconic Yamaha DX7.
For delivering unparalleled patches and sequences, it houses six operators accompanied by the four-stage envelope generator.
The features of this VST plugin include a cartridge loader popup, a patch storing screen and a parameter configuration panel.
4. Synth1
The design and function of Synth1 recognize the Nord Lead 2 Red Synth to a great extent.
In this VST plugin, you can play with the multiple options given for modulation and produce versatile sequences of EDM.
Apart from the usual feature, it has a side-chain compression emulation and a 32-step trance gate.
5. Rivera VST Plugin
Rivera VST plugin uses algorithmic reverberation along with convolution modeling for building patches.
It thereby functions in generating hybrid reverb. It has five “Vooms” which are the combination of volume and rooms related to different styles of reverberation.
Each of these “Vooms” has its control for modifying the reflection, size and offset.
6. Freq Echo
Freq Echo by Valhalla, a well-designed synthesizer plugin for dubbing and other psychedelic needs.
This VST plugin has a low cut, and high cut controls in feedback offer a great controlling on echo delay.
The effects it supports are Chorus, Phase Flange along with controlling its Tempo.
7. MT POWER DRUMKIT 2
MT powder drumkit 2 is a drumkit plugin that is available free.
If you are looking for a plugin that helps you in getting a high-quality drum sound, then this plugin won’t let you disappointed.
Also, its feature brings in MIDI grooves which will help you in producing convincing beats.
8. SYNISTER
Synister has the edge over many plugins when it comes to usability.
Not just an easy to use and visually appealing interface it offers but this open source plugin includes several cool features.
Along with three oscillator and effects like clipping, low fidelity there is no baseline you aren’t able to design with this VST plugin.
9. TDR – Proximity
TDR-Proximity is a VST plugin brought by the Tokyo Dawn Labs and Vladg Sound.
This VST plugin lets the sound engineer play with the depth of sound sources by changing the placement of mic.
10. AMPLE GUITAR M LITE II
As a virtual acoustic guitar plugin, this unique synthesizer which is an update from its previous version has multiple features loaded to boost the performance. This freebie acoustic guitar instrument is now faster and performs fewer memory resources.
Here is the list of top ten open source Free VST plugin which is quite accessible and useful for the sound engineers and music producers. Since they all are free, you can experience them all and figure out which one is the most suitable for you.
if you still didn’t satisfied with our free vst plugins list then don’t worry.
As several plugins launch every month adding to the already existing lists of countless plugins, it might take you a month or a year or even more to get the right one.
Of course, the job of getting a perfect vst plugin is quite grueling but not anymore since we did it for you.
After exploring thousands of great plugins for hours, we bring you a minimized list of best vst plugins out there. It includes a little over 100 plugins.
As the cherry on the top, the below list also mention the top 100 vst plugins that are entirely free of cost and paid. Talking about their performance many of these plugins are much better than some premium plugin from notable firms.
So, without making you wait anymore let’s get started with our list. Meanwhile, you can thank us later 😉
Best VST Plugins for Synthesizer
1. Serum by Xfer Records
Probably the best synthesizer available currently is the Serum by Xfer Records costing 189 USD. As a wavetable synthesizer, it offers you a workflow-oriented interface along with unmatched sound quality and visuals.
The best part of its user-friendly and creative interface that you will automatically get the drive to experiment with the sound. So you don’t need any manual for it.
Cost 149 USD, this plugin purposely meant for bass music.
Recommended Source: You can download free serum presets over here.
2. Massive by Native Instruments
As the name is Massive is quite a powerful synthesizer for electro and bass music synthesis with an easy to use interface.
So, if you want to explore your creativity with electro and bass music, you can blindly go for it.
Recommended Source: You can download free massive presets over here.
3. Omnisphere2 by Spectrasonics
For those who want one plugin which enables them to synthesis varied type of sound, then Omnisphere2 will cater your needs.
It is available at 499 USD. A bit expensive but worthy.
4. Sylenth1 by Lennar Digital
Among a few plugins that match the sound standard of the Hardware synthesizer, Sylenth1 is the one.
You can purchase its premium version at 139 euro and avail top quality sound and performance.
Recommended Source: You can download free sylenth presets over here.
5. Retrologue2 by Steinberg
Known for enhancing the richness of the output sound through its virtual analog oscillator and filters, Retrologue2 is available in 99 €.
It houses more than 700 presets, flexible arpeggiator, 24 first-class filters, and an effective modulation system.
6. Trillian Total Bass Module by Spectrasonics
Trillian Total Bass Module is ultimate for bass modulation as it encloses numerous types of bass in it. Moreover, you can explore its top-notch synth bass tone and great editing tools at just 299 USD.
7. Z3TA+2 by Cakewalk
No matter what music you produce, be it pop or rap anything and everything is now possible with Z3TA+2.
You can avail its premium version at only 99 USD.
8. LuSH-101 by D16 Audio
Nothing can limit your creativity with LuSH-101 as it allows your creativity to flow and explore new possibilities with the sound.
Its major plus points are its simple design accompanied with multilayer architecture. You can buy it for 149 €.
9. Razor by Native Instruments
It works as a powerful additive synthesizer that offers acoustic flexibility and ability to design a wide range of sound.
Costing 99 USD, it is a super sharp synthesizer with unique visual feedback delivers clear audio quality.
10. SLOO by Tim Exile
SLOO has a dynamic voice swarming algorithm through which one can morph sonic transformation to any extent. Be it a live performance or studio music production its flexibility and versatility makes it a real winner.
To get it you have to pay 49 £.
11. FM8 by Native Instruments
A powerful synthesizer software FM8 has over 960 presets along with high-quality hardware patches. For accessing a breathtaking, crystal clear sound quality, you have to pay 149 USD.
12. Phobos by Spitfire Audio
Created by notable composer and music producer BT, Phobos will cost you 299 USD. It is a unique synthesizer accomplishing all the sought out of the composers forming cinematic electronica and epic composition.
13. Diva by u-he
Dive stand apart from the other synthesizer when it comes to producing an outstanding quality of analog sound.
You can avail it at only 179 USD.
14. Lounge Lizard EP4 by AAS
At the cost of 199 USD, this electric piano plugin has several useful features like its new library, new control panel, compressor, limiter, and its streamlined interface.
Here you can explore from Rhodes to Wurlitzer sound and more than 240 gigs.
15. Addictive Keys by XLN Audio
It is a keyboard synthesizer that gives a kick to your music creativity. Comes with numerous inspiring presets which also include preview that will boost your creativeness and capabilities. Available at just 80 USD.
16. Rapid by Parawave Audio
A powerful control panel helps you in controlling every aspect of sound production. By combining different layers of synthesis, you can obtain that sound you wish.
Best VST Plugins for Kick Drum Synthesizers
1. Kick2 by Sonic Academy
An Upgrade from its previous version, this award-winning Drum synthesizer will enable to get an authentic kick drum effect.
It endows you with features like drag and drops click loading, over 230 factory kick, browsing external sample folder and more at £49.95.
2. BAZZism2 by Intelligent Sounds & Music
Sculpting, manipulating a kick drum to your dance track is now a piece of cake with BAZZism2.
Get your premium version at only 30 €.
3. PunchBOX by D16 Audio
PunchBOX assists you in sampling as well as synthesis at the same time. It has 1100 samples, and 800 presets from notable sound designers. Apart from it, the interface is simple, intuitive and easy to work. Get it for 79 €.
4. BigKick by Plugin Boutique
Its straightforward interface makes it many music producer’s favorites. For its paid version, will cost you 65 USD.
Best VST Plugins for Compression
1. Fabfilter Pro C
Get the high-quality compressor experience with Fabfilter Pro C fitting to the needs of every sound engineers.
Together with refined compression, it offers you an authentic lead vocal, that magic drum glue and in-depth EDM pumping at 179 USD.
2. CLA Classic Compressors by Waves
As a music producer, you must include this compressor tool in your kit.
True to its name CLA classic compression is a perfect model having four compressors in one. 599 USD is its cost.
3. Omnipressor by Eventide
It brings a list of features regarding its variable control, expansion, compression, limiting and executing some effects.
This dynamic, fast and versatile plugin will cost you 149 USD.
4. Klanghelm DC8C
This plugin enables you to create vast ranging compression which will be apparent, smooth and distinct.
Costing 20 €, it is among the most flexible compressor you will ever find.
5. Presswerk by u-he
Priced at 129 USD its design and functioning is quite smooth and easy to carry.
Some of its unique features include color morphing, changing stereo tapes, the feedback signals, and tracking freeze and MIDI notes.
6. Tube-Tech CL1B by Softube
With this compressor plugin, you can achieve a full-fledged versatility in your music.
By just rotating a few knobs you can switch from mild synth to sharp and hard-hitting beats.
Best Free Orchestra Vst Plugins Music
7. Puigchild by Waves
A renowned compression plugin in housing all the cutting-edge techniques to produce an unparalleled sound quality.
You can buy it at 349 USD.
8. H-Comp Hybrid Compressor by Waves
Here the transformers, tubes, and transistors work in fine tune which results in a precise, transparent sound as the output. Available in the market at 179 USD.
Best VST Plugins for EQ’s
1. Millenia NSEQ-2 by Plugin Alliance
Employed by many world famous studios and mastering house, this EQ plugin generates dynamic, acoustically neutral, analog EQ. its price is 299 USD.
2. Fabfilter Pro Q 2
It advances you mixing and mastering the ability to the greatest extent. Its undeniably appealing and innovative interface is another plus point besides the pure audio quality.
All you have to pay is 179 USD for getting it.
3. EQuilibrium by DMG Audio
Costing 179 £, it is the best performing, supportive and includes all the application offered in the new age ideal EQ plugins.
4. SSL G-Equalizer by Waves
To give a boost to the equalization, it has additional features. For instance, pre-cut rise, pre-boost dip, and broader Q.
Due to this fact, many notable sound engineers are fond of this equalization plugin.
5. Smart: EQ by Sonible
Another best in industry equalizer to get your hand on is the smart: EQ+.
It will hand over an improved quality and clarity in the sound within a few seconds.
6. SEQ-ST by Nugen Audio
A dynamic audio designing and EQ matching software for desired sound output are what SEQ-ST is all about. The plugin will cost 149 USD.
Moreover, it will assist you in stereo mid-side operation and automatic spectrum analysis.
7. Maag Audio EQ4
A wide range of renowned artists like Madonna, Celine Dion reckons on Maag Audio EQ4 equalizer.
You can make quite a lot of EQ adjustments accompanied by the exceptionally low phase shift.
Best VST Plugins for Reverbs
1. Altiverb by Audio Ease
Matching the industry standard this reverb plugin is efficient and effective. Furthermore, its real spaces samples make reverb generating an easier and faster process.
You can avail its regular version at 595 USD.
2. Valhalla Shimmer
No matter what concert hall it is, you can get a smooth, error-free sound quality with this reverb plugin.
With this algorithmic reverb, you will get an optimized output with just tweaking its sliders. Price of this plugin is 50 USD.
3. Blackhole by Eventide
A highly innovative reverb that empowers you to create a virtual space within it as per your need.
You have to pay 199 USD for it.
4. R4 by Exponential Audio
Here you can access range historical hardware reverb along with advanced features in an easy to use model.
This plugin can be yours in 299 USD.
5. Abbey Road Plates by Waves
With Abbey Road Plates plugin, you will get access to four reverb plates and not one. Each one of them holds different features.
You have to spend 249 USD to get it.
6. Toraverb by D16 Audio
You can control the character of sound with two parametric EQs. Also, its modified all-pass filters provide you high-quality diffusion.
7. RP-Verb by Rob Papen
This fantastic reverb plugin gives you a more natural sound quality. It has a unique distortion feature.
The price you will pay is 149 USD.
Best VST Plugins for Delays
1. Replika by Native Instruments
Get the required delay is comfortable, with three high-fidelity algorithms of Replika. Its control panel, resonant filter and phaser function together to provide the versatile delay.
Its cost is 49 USD.
2. UltraTap by Eventide
UltraTap plugin helps in generating rhythmic delays, extraordinary modulation, boosting the volume and glitchy reverbs.
3. RP-Delay by Rob Papen
Its primary focus is on features like brand new FX routing. You will find delays ranging from simple mono delay, stereo delay, along with tape-sound delay.
All this at 49 USD only.
4. Valhalla Ubermod
It is one of a kind delay plugin having 32 modulated delay tap, extensive diffusion and overdrive section.
All this combine to produce a bunch of high-quality acoustic.
5. MFM2 by u-he
The interactive design provides the utmost control over the four delay lines. Real-time modulation of various parameter can’t be more natural then what this plugin brings to you.
6. Sandman by Unfiltered Audio
It is more than just a delay plugin. Apart from the basic features, you will find here many new possibilities to explore.
Price is 49 USD.
Best VST Plugins for Saturation & Distortion
1. Decapitator by Soundtoys
Analog saturation produced through the transistor, tube, circuitry is what makes the sound quality appealing.
Priced at 199 USD, Decapitator brings the best analog saturation to you.
2. Trash 2 by Izotope
The ability you have to use multiband and dual stage distortion at the same time make it stand out from the crowd.
3. Omnicide by Ohm Force
The plugin uses an advanced Melohman technology letting you take benefits of MIDI compatibility. Its interface is simple and has a 3D skin design.
You will get four frequency band and variety of distortion in this plugin.
4. Karacter 500 by Elysia
Karacter encloses two plugins karacter mix and karacter master. The first one allows you to make changes in the mono and stereo sounds using the controlling panel.
The later helps you making a more detailed transformation.
5. Redoptor by D16 Audio
With Redoptor, you can get distortion effect in every circuitry through its precise tube distortion system. The other highlights are parametric EQ and independent stereo processing.
6. RC-20 Retro Color by XLN Audio
Sculpt your recording and add textures to it through this plugin. Price to pay is 79.95 USD.
Best VST Plugins for Mixing & Mastering
1. Bombardier Buss Compressor by Stillwell Audio
This plugin function smooth while treating even the most complex audio like vocal steams and drum groups.
2. The Rocket by Stillwell Audio
It is a character audio compressor which has a responsive interface towards any variation in the program.
3. Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor by UAD
It requires a UAD sound card for its functioning. Costing 299 USD, it endows every tool needed which makes it a complete imitation of the advanced hardware.
4. Izotope Ozone 7
A widely preferred music production tool to shape up your audio character. Izotope Ozone 7 mixes and controlling features are excellent in the industry.
5. Fabfilter Pro L
For mastering and mixing brickwall limiter is needed and this software has packed limiter which is best for adding loudness and transparencies.
6. L3-16 Ultramaximizer by Waves
L3-16 Ultramaximizer will cost you 549 USD. Increase the loudness and avail the exceptional control over the parameter through its 16-band peak limiter.
7. VSC-2 Compressor by Brainworx
It employs four 1979 designed VCAs which are hand built and discrete. The ratio variable feature in soft mode and the brick mode is its essential highlight.
8. EQuivocate by Eventide & Newfangled Audio
The plugin designer gives extra emphasis to make the sound appear more natural. For that matter, 26 critical bands tickle a different part of your inner ear.
Along with this linear-phase filter, shape minimizes the pre-echo present in the sound.
Download Demo Buy
Best VST Plugins for Vocal Production
1. Melodyne by Celemony
The algorithm of Melodyne assists the sound engineer to make the subtlest as well as the hard-hitting audios. The incredible editing tools and intuitive interface makes it incomparable.
2. VocALign PRO 4 by Synchro Arts
This plugin eases the alignment of one audio single to another without any delay. It is the latest version of classic VocALign costing 399 USD.
3. CHOIR Evo by Antares
Its stand out feature is that you can convert a single monophonic voice into a union of 4, 8, 16, 32 sound. Further, you can alter each of these unison pitches, timing and vibrato variations.
4. Vocal Synth by Izotope
Any vocal can get diversely transformed from electronic to robot to computerized and many more variations.
Free VST Plugins for Kick Drum Synths, Drum Machines, and Drum Kits
1. DrumTroop by Dub Turbo
Minecraft for windows 7. It endows you with a straightforward toolset for producing various kick drum sound. The careful designing of the kit is as per the genre and sub-genre.
2. LM-1 Linndrum Drum Machines by Jun’s factory, Simple Recorder, and MH Music
With the fusion of three diverse VST, they reconstructed classic Linndrum LM-1 drum machine
Free VST Plugins for Modulation & Time Based Effects
1. Protoverb by u-he
It is a unique reverb plugin that functions on the idea of room simulator.
2. Multiply by Acon Digital
Meant to produce versatile chorus effect exclusively. For that matter, the phase randomizing factor will exclude the unwanted comb filter from the sound.
Free VST Plugins for Saturation & Distortion
1. Revival by Slate Digital
It allows you to manipulate tube, tape, transformers and filter in every single track. You can add details to your mixes and master stage.
2. Saturation Knob by Softube
It is a modeled distortion plugin which is easy to use. Be it fattening the baseline to adding harmonic, a wide range of effects you can add through it.
Free VST Plugins for Compressors & Limiters
1. DC1A by Klanghelm
Works amazingly well on the input signals but lack of additional control is a little disadvantage with it.
2. Molot Compressor by Vladg
It performs great when it comes to adding coloration in the signal.
Free VST Plugins for EQ’s
1. TDR Nova by Tokyo Dawn Records
It is a dynamic free available plugin which impresses with its detailed dynamic section. Through it, you can perform a lot of application over the input signal.
2. Luftikus by Ikjb
It is a digital edition of an analog Equalizer. It facilitates high-frequency boost, deeper cuts and helps in ducking overall gain change.
Free VST Plugins for Vocal Production
1. MAuto Pitch by Melda Production
As an advance automatic pitch correction tool, it is impressive and works effectively on all sorts of vocals and monophonic instruments.
2. Duet by Martin Eastwood
It offers double tracing or harmonizer effect to improve and modify vocal or instrument sound.
Free VST Plugins for Mixing & Mastering
1. Panipulator by Boz Digital Labs
A must-have tool that gives your insight about your mixes, appearing on a different system.
2. SPAN by Voxengo
It is an audio spectrum analyzer plugin which will assist you in the making of professional music production.
Frequently Asked Questions
#1 How do I install VST plugins in FL Studio?
Here is the step by step guide to install VST Plugins in Fl Studio:
1. Download the VST Plugins to your computer.
2. Unzip the Plugin file.
3. Copy the .dll file to Program FilesVST3 Folder.
4. Open FL Studio and click on Channels up top and then click the Refresh button to scan your VST plugin folder.
5. Look for the new VST plugin you added and check the box next to it.
6. Done!
#2 What are VST instruments?
Virtual Studio Technology (VST) is an audio plug-in software interface that integrates software synthesizer and effects in digital audio workstations. VST and similar technologies use digital signal processing to simulate traditional recording studio hardware in software.
Source:Wikipedia
#3 What is VST and VSTI?
Edirol Orchestral Vst Plugin
- “VST is the “overall” name of the technology; VSTi is to differentiate VST instruments from VST effects (although confusingly there isn’t really an equivalent abbreviation for effects.”
- “VSTi – Virtual Studio Technology instrument – a sound patch or sampler/rompler
VST (or VSTfx) – Virtual Studio Technology fx – reverb/delay/phaser/distortion/etc
Source:Quora
That’s all folks! these 120 fantastic vst plugins that will help you the most in shaping your music production skills. If you want, you can purchase or download it anytime.
Comment below and let us know which Plugin is your favorite! 🙂
great issues altogether, you simply won a new reader. What might you recommend
about your post that you just made some days ago?
Any certain?
Convolution reverbs are reverb effects which use impulse responses (IRs) to simulate an acoustic space. These are the best freeware convolution reverb effects in VST plugin format for digital audio workstations on PC and Mac.
Best Free Orchestra Vst Plugins 1
An impulse response captures the sound of an acoustic space or an artificially simulated space (when recorded from a hardware reverb unit, for example). Loading an impulse response in a convolution reverb effect will apply the reverb properties of the sampled acoustic space to the processed audio signal. This way, we can simulate recording an audio track in a natural environment (by using impulse responses of outdoor spaces) or mimic the sound of expensive hardware reverb effects.
1. Convology XT by Impulse Record
Convology XT is a free convolution reverb VST plugin developed by Impulse Record. It includes a collection of 70 reverb impulse responses captured from a variety of vintage hardware reverb units. Additional impulse responses are available for purchase on the developer’s website. More importantly, the plugin is capable of loading external impulse responses in WAV format.
In terms of its ability to modify the loaded impulse response file, Convology XT is the most advanced freeware convolution reverb VST plugin on this list. The user can adjust the attack and decay time, pre-delay, and the frequency response. It is also possible to time-stretch the IR file and to apply modulation in order to achieve a stereo widening effect. The plugin doesn’t introduce any latency, which is somewhat of a rarity among freeware convolution reverbs.
Convology XT can be downloaded completely free of charge from Impulse Record’s website. After installing and loading the plugin for the first time, enter the serial number provided at checkout to activate your license. The developers have also provided several tutorial videos to help new users get started with the plugin.
More info:Convology XT(32-bit & 64-bit VST/AU/AAX plugin format for Windows & MacOS)
Best Free Orchestra Vst Plugins Software
+ Plenty of control over the active impulse response
+ Can load external IR files
2. MConvolutionEZ Convolution by MeldaProduction
MConvolutionEZ comes with a wider range of impulse responses than Convology XT, but its feature set is less advanced. The user can adjust the stereo width of the active impulse response and shape its tone using a pair of filters. Unfortunately, the timing properties like attack and decay time can’t be customized. This is a serious drawback which makes MConvolutionEZ less of a professional mixing tool and more of a beginner option for users who are just getting started with using convolution reverb plugins. Still, its ease of use and intuitive user interface are part of the reason why we recommend giving it a try.
Much like Convology XT, MeldaProduction’s convolution reverb plugin can load external impulses responses in WAV and FLAC format. Due to the convenient file browser which is located at the very center of the user interface, MConvolutionEZ is a great tool for testing newly downloaded impulse response libraries. The included reverb impulses sound pretty good, too.
One thing we didn’t like, though, is the fact that MeldaProduction bundles all of their plugins into a single installer. This makes for longer download times and a somewhat annoying installation procedure. Also, the plugin will show a nag screen asking the user to upgrade to the paid version of the plugin which is called MConvolutionMB. The plugin’s functionality isn’t affected by the nag screen, though.
More info:MConvolutionEZ(32-bit & 64-bit VST/VST3/AU/AAX plugin format for Windows & MacOS)
+ Fast workflow
+ Loads external IR files in WAV and Flac format
– Lacks envelope controls
– Displays a nag screen
3. SIR1 by SIR Audio Tools
SIR1 is an old product (released in 2004.), but some users still swear by it. Its simple user interface and a rather capable feature set make it a useful tool even in this modern age of VST plugins. However, SIR1’s biggest drawback is the fact that it is only compatible with 32-bit VST plugin hosts on Windows. Mac owners and Windows users running 64-bit digital audio workstations are out of luck.
The user interface is well designed, with the file browser on the right, waveform display on the top, the control parameters on the left, and the spectrum display on the bottom. The user can adjust the pre-delay time and the envelope of the loaded impulse response. The IR can also be time-stretched, which is a great feature to have in a convolution plugin. SIR1 has a fixed latency of 8960 samples and is optimized for low CPU consumption.
More info:SIR1(32-bit VST plugin format for Windows)
+ Time-stretching of the loaded IR file
+ Loads external IR files in WAV format
– Only supports 32-bit VST plugin hosts on Windows
– No longer updated
4. Reverberate LE by LiquidSonics
Reverberate LE is another older plugin on this list (released in 2006.) and it shares the same compatibility issues with SIR1. In other words, it will only work in 32-bit digital audio workstations on Windows-based machines. If you happen to fall into that particular category of users, Reverberate LE is well worth a shot.
The plugin includes only a small collection of impulse responses, so it’s mostly up to the user to provide their own IR samples (WAV, AIFF, and FLAC files are supported). Once loaded, the impulse responses can be customized using the Reverberate LE’s envelope shaping and time-stretching controls. The plugin also features a parametric equalizer which can completely alter the tone of the IR sample.
Reverberate LE can operate in zero latency mode, or in low latency mode when the graphics card is used for processing (an Nvidia chip is required for this). Stereo impulse responses are supported.
More info:Reverberate LE(32-bit VST plugin format for Windows)
+ Advanced envelope and time-stretching controls
+ Features a parametric EQ for shaping the tone
– Only supports 32-bit VST plugin hosts on Windows
– No longer updated
5. Halls Of Fame 3 Free by Best Service
Halls Of Fame 3 Free is a stripped-down version of the Halls of Fame 3 – Complete Edition (€169) convolution reverb effect by Best Service which comes with over 1,500 reverb presets. The free version only includes 27 reverb presets and doesn’t load external impulse responses. The reason why we’re including it on the list, though, is that the included reverb impulse responses sound exceptionally good.
The plugin features a selection of impulse responses captured from legendary hardware reverb units such as the EMT 240, AKG BX 20, Lexicon PCM96, and the Bricasti M7. The presets can be customized using detailed envelope and tone control parameters. The user can adjust the pre-delay time, attack/release times, and trim the loaded impulse response. The plugin also features a 3-band tone control and a damping control for shaping the tone of the reverb tails.
Unfortunately, the download and activation procedures are a bit more cumbersome than we’d like to see. First, you will need to complete the checkout process, then download two individual installers for the plugin and the sound content, and finally authorize your Halls Of Fame 3 Free installation.
More info:Halls Of Fame 3 Free(32-bit & 64-bit VST/AU/AAX plugin format for Windows & MacOS)
+ Great-sounding presets
+ Allows the user to customize the envelope and tone
– Doesn’t load external impulse responses
– Somewhat annoying plugin activation procedure
Once you’re happy with your convolution reverb plugin of choice, it’s time to obtain some high-quality reverb impulse responses. Here are some of our favorite places to download convolution reverb IR files for free:
Finally, here are a few recommended options for those looking for a paid convolution reverb VST plugin instead of a freeware one:
- Fog Convolver by AudioThing($65)
- Verberate 2 by Acon Digital($99)
Due to its relatively affordable price and well-designed user interface, Fog Convolver is our recommended commercial convolution reverb VST plugin. It comes with a huge library of impulse responses and features a slick user interface with plenty of customization options.
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