17 Free Plugins That Will Absolutely Blow Your Mind

Free plugins can either be a game-changer for your tracks or the worst addition you’ve ever considered.

If they’re on point, they can help you elevate your mixes, create new and exciting soundscapes, and bring a level of edge to your tracks.

Plus, they can offer invaluable learning experiences as well as opportunities to experiment without breaking the bank.

That’s why we’re breaking down the best 17 free plugins available right now, so you can get super creative and enhance your workflow. 

These top-tier free plugins offer everything you need to create legendary beats, such as:

• High-quality sound emulations ✓
• Dynamic EQ and compression ✓
• Authentic analog warmth ✓
• Complex modulation breakdowns ✓
• User-friendly interfaces ✓
• Wide variety of synthesis techniques ✓
• Real-time visual feedback for mixing ✓
• Stereo widening without phase issues ✓
• Precise loudness metering ✓
• Easy integration with most digital audio workstations ✓
• Extensive preset libraries ✓
• Much, more more ✓

After this article, you’ll be able to download the best free plugins that actually deliver on their promises and won’t just clutter up your space with whack effects or instruments.

This way, you can elevate your music production skills, make your tracks shine, and create music that really stick with your listeners. 

And the best part is, you’re not spending a single dime.

So, let’s just jump right in…

#1. Zen Master by Unison Audio

Zen Master is one of the most highly-renowned new free plugins in the game.

It was designed to instantly give your music that warm, vintage, lo-fi feel that people know and love.

It simplifies the process of transforming any sound into something that feels right out of an old vinyl collection, making it easier than ever to achieve that sought-after lo-fi sound.

Your sounds will gain a new life with this free VST plugin.

Its ease of use is unmatched, featuring just five knobs for straightforward yet impactful sound manipulation, including:

#1. Hypnosis

Hypnosis wraps your audio in a unique detune and width effect, meticulously created over months.

#2. Imbalance

Imbalance introduces a tape-modeled pitch wobble, adding a retro, human touch to your sounds.

#3. Electrify

Electrify employs bit-crushing to carefully degrade your audio, echoing classic lo-fi styles.

#4. Noise/Vinyl

Noise layers your music with one of three signature noises, infusing your tracks with authentic vintage vibes.

#5. Ascend

Ascend elevates your sound with a reverb that strikes the perfect balance between spacious, warm, and clear.

Zen Master is not just about adding effects 一 it’s about transforming your music into something that resonates on a deeper level. 

It’s the perfect blend of analog and digital, which blends together the best of both worlds for an awesome hybrid effect. 

This free plugin is proof that you don’t need a complex setup or a million bucks to achieve professional, inspiring sounds. 

If you want to turn your tracks from basic to brilliant, then Zen Master has definitely got you covered.

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Instantly adds lo-fi, warm, and vintage vibes
• Simple interface with just 5 knobs for total control
• Unique effects for creative sound manipulation
• Perfect combo of analog and digital modeled effects
• Easy to use for instant inspiration and transformation of sounds
• One of the best free VST plugins available

#2. Tyrell N6 by U-he

Tyrell N6 is not just a synthesizer 一 it’s a testament to what the best free VST plugins are really capable of.

It delivers professional-grade sound quality and doesn’t slack in any key areas.

With its design inspired by classic analog synths, Tyrell N6 stands out for its super impressive, immersive sounds that cover all the bases.

From deep, growling basses to shimmering, airy pads, this free plugin has it all. 

Its dual oscillators are complemented by noise generation and ring modulation capabilities, which helps you with different complex sound textures.

Tyrell N6 is also renowned for its filter section, including: 

• High-pass
• Low-pass
• Band-pass modes

Each one mimics the analog warmth and depth of vintage synthesizers. 

The modulation matrix adds to its versatility, which allows for detailed sculpting and automation of sound parameters.

So, needless to say, when it comes to music production and sound design, the possibilities are endless.

Its ease of use, combined with deep customization options, makes it a favorite for those looking for a free plugin that will never compromise on quality.

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Analog sound free emulation for rich, immersive textures.
• Comprehensive modulation matrix for dynamic sound shaping.
• Variety of filter types for extensive sound sculpting.
• Detailed and intuitive user-friendly interface; routing options.
• Versatile for both music production and sound design.
• One of the best free VST plugins around.

#3. Surge XT

Surge XT is a great example of the power and versatility that free software synthesizers can offer to the music production community. 

This open-source powerhouse takes synthesis to new heights with its huge feature set, allowing for endless sounds from classic analog to futuristic digital timbres. 

Surge XT is packed with features, from its rich wavetable oscillators to its versatile filter models and expansive modulation matrix.

It gives you unparalleled control over your sound design process. 

Unlike many free plugins, Surge XT provides: 

• A dual filter configuration
• Multiple unison modes
• Various effects

So, if you’re looking for complex, evolving textures as well as sharp, punchy leads, you’ve come to the right place.

One of the standout aspects of Surge XT is its user-friendlly interface which (while comprehensive) remains intuitive even for those new to synthesis. 

It makes a super complex subject seem easy thanks to this thoughtful layout.

With Surge XT, you can dive into detailed sound sculpting with FM, wavetable, and subtractive synthesis, all within one single plugin. 

It’s also continuously updated by a dedicated community of developers and sound designers, so it will remain at the cutting edge of virtual studio technology and digital sound creation. 

Surge XT is not just another free synth; it’s a full-blown virtual instrument that stands shoulder to shoulder with high-end paid software.

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Diverse synthesis methods for unparalleled sound creation.
• Advanced modulation system with an extensive mod matrix.
• User-centric design for ease of use and exploration.
• A treasure trove for electronic music producers and sound designers.
• Community-driven development for constant innovation.
• One of the best free plugins around (better than most paid version new plugins & free VSTs alike).

#4. LABS by Spitfire Audio

LABS by Spitfire Audio is supreme when it comes to free virtual instruments because it offers an ever-growing collection of high-quality, expressive sounds of all kinds.

Each virtual instrument within LABS is meticulously sampled, ensuring that users have access to the same pristine quality associated with Spitfire Audio’s premium libraries. 

The beauty of LABS lies in its simplicity and ease of use.

Unique to LABS is the philosophy of providing completely free instruments without compromising on quality (which is pretty rare and equally impressive).

You can explore a diverse range of sounds, from the ethereal to the cinematic, which will help with innovation, inspiration, experimentation, and beating beat block.

Whether adding depth to a film score or texture to a pop arrangement, LABS offers  show-stopping sounds that will help your unleash your creative beast.

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Expansive range of sample-based virtual instruments with exceptional quality.
• Streamlined, user-friendly interface for immediate use.
• Regularly updated library with new, versatile sounds.
• Perfect for adding authentic instrumental textures to any project.
• Supports both traditional composition and experimental sound design.
• One of the best free plugins around to get your tracks sounding great.

#5. Native Instruments Komplete Start

Native Instruments Komplete Start is a super extensive bundle of free VST plugins. 

It includes a selection of over 2,000 sounds from Native Instruments’ acclaimed library, including: 

• Virtual synthesizers
• Sampled instruments (that match real instruments)
• Creative effects

Plus, with Native Instruments Komplete Start, you’ll have acces to Kontakt Player (6) for rich, sample-based sounds and Reaktor 6 Player for designing complex soundscapes.

Or, exploring modular synthesis, of course.

It’s a great starting point for those new to Native Instruments’ ecosystem and OGs alike.

Komplete Start stands out for its versatility 一 providing a wide array of sounds that cover genres from electronic to trap. 

The Synth collection, including Mikro Prism and TRK-01 Play, offers a range of electronic textures that will make your tracks dominate the dancefloor.

World Instruments, Band, and Vintage collections unlock a world of creative possibilities and unique timbres, which us innovative music producers absolutely love.

The package’s straightforward installation and integration into any digital audio workstation ensure a smooth workflow.

This makes it an invaluable, simple tool for music creators of all kinds, genres, and styles.

When it comes to free plugin bundles, you probably won’t ever find a better option.

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Huge amount of virtual instruments & creative effects from Native Instruments.
• Includes both Kontakt 6 Player and Reaktor 6 Player for advanced sound design.
• Wide variety of sounds, suitable for all music genres.
• User-friendly, easy to integrate into your music production workflow.
• A fantastic introduction to the quality and versatility of NI.
• One of the best free plugins around thanks to Native Instruments.

#6. Decent Sampler

Decent Sampler, on the other hand, is a powerful, free sampling tool that lets you explore a universe of sounds by creators worldwide.

Unlike many basic samplers, Decent Sampler provides access to a growing library of unique virtual instruments; everything you’re looking for.

The user-friendly interface of Decent Sampler is designed with simplicity in mind, making it easy for you to switch through various samples and instruments. 

This free plugin supports intricate multi-sampled instruments with multiple velocity layers and round robins 一 offering detailed articulation that brings samples to life. 

Decent Sampler is especially loved for its capability to handle (and distribute) community-created virtual instruments.

Meaning, it lets users share their creations or explore others’ work. 

It’s a dynamic tool that encourages collaboration and experimentation, which is perfect for music producers and sound designers looking for new sounds and textures.

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Community-driven library of unique virtual nstruments.
• Advanced sampling capabilities usually found in paid version software.
• Simple yet powerful interface for easy navigation and sound tweaking.
• Enables expressive performance with multi-layered instruments/articulations.
• One of the best free VST plugins around.

#7. DiscoDSP OB-Xd

DiscoDSP OB-Xd brings the legendary sound of the Oberheim OB-X synthesizer to the digital world, and we couldn’t be happier..

It offers an authentic free emulation of one of the most iconic analog synths ever.

The attention to detail in the emulation extends to the synth’s filter behavior and modulation capabilities, which is super on point.

Being one of the best plugins around, It provides a level of detail that resonates with both retro enthusiasts and modern music producers alike.

A standout feature is its stereo spread functionality, which can instantly widen the sound, providing lush stereo landscapes that can fill up a mix with minimal effort.

 

Additionally, the carefully modeled drift control adds an authentic vintage feel by simulating the slight oscillator detuning found in old analog hardware.

It’s perfect for making music with those warm, phasing leads and pads that are so characteristic of 80s music (and which is becoming super popular right now).

Plus, the user-friendly interface of this VST plugin simplifies the complexity of analog synthesis so you can really enhance your sound design skills. 

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Authentic emulation of the Oberheim OB-X synthesizer.
• Unique stereo spread feature for expansive soundscapes.
• Drift control adds organic warmth and movement.
• Precisely modeled filters and oscillators for true analog sound.
• One of the best free VST plugins for adding vintage flair to your tracks.

#8. Dexed

Dexed is a powerhouse VST plugin (virtual studio technology plugin), offering a detailed/accurate emulation of the Yamaha DX7.

What sets Dexed apart is its dual role: 

• A faithful reproduction of the DX7 一 For FM synthesis manipulation.
• As a patch editor/librarian 一 For the actual hardware synth.

It connects the digital and analog workflow in a really unique way.

The unlimited library of presets this VST plugin replicates classic sounds from the DX7, making it an invaluable tool for music producers looking for that authentic 80s vibe. 

Additionally, its deep editing capabilities unlock the potential for creating modern sounds that push the boundaries of FM synthesis.

NOTE: Its ability to load and save patches in the DX7 format let you both experiment and share with the community. 

This just further solidifies itself as one of the most versatile, flexible free plugins to help you enhance your sound design and music production skills.

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Accurate DX7 emulation with extensive preset library.
• Functions as a patch editor/librarian for the DX7, facilitating a hybrid setup.
• Advanced FM synthesis capabilities for creating a wide range of sounds.
• Community-friendly with the ability to share presets.
• One of the best free plugins/free VSTs around.

#9. Zebralette by u-he

Zebralette is a surprisingly powerful free VST plugin from the renowned software synthesizer developers at u-he. 

It serves as a single oscillator version of Zebra2, offering a slice of the larger synth’s capabilities but still packing a sick punch on its own. 

Zebralette excels in creating bright and vibrant sounds, from sharp leads to complex pads, thanks to its wavetable synthesis. 

The oscillator can morph between waveforms, and includes spectral effects like: 

• FM
• Sync
• Waveshaping

With these options, the sonic possibilities become nearly endless.

Plus, Zebralette is equipped with a modulation matrix and multiple envelope generators 一 giving you full control over sound design. 

Its user-friendly interface hides a deep and versatile toolset, which makes it perfect for beginners wanting to explore synthesis without getting overwhelmed. 

This free plugin stands out for its ability to generate unique timbres.

Seriously, it’s a valuable addition for any producer looking to widen their sonic horizons in electronic music and beyond.

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Wavetable synthesis with the ability to morph waveforms.
• Deep modulation capabilities for dynamic sound shaping.
• Spectral effects like FM and waveshaping open up a wide range of sounds.
• User-friendly interface that simplifies complex synthesis.
• One of the best plugins around for learning synthesis.

#10. Ample Bass P & Guitar M Lite

Ample Bass P & Guitar M Lite by Ample Sound are two free virtual instruments designed to bring realistic bass and guitar sounds to your digital audio workstation.

 

These free plugins shine with their articulations and playing techniques 一 offering a level of realism rarely found in any free version. 

The Bass P Lite II models the sound of a Fender Precision Bass, while the Guitar M Lite II emulates the warm, resonant tones of a Martin D-41 acoustic guitar.

Both plugins feature a user-friendly interface, multiple articulations, and built-in effects that allow for a wide range of sounds.

Everything from gentle fingerpicked melodies to aggressive strummed rhythms and beyond, Ample Sound has got you covered.

They’re truly indispensable tools for music producers looking to add real instruments to their tracks without recording live sessions.

It simplifies the music production process while maintaining quality; what could be better?

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Highly realistic bass and guitar sound modeling (signature of Ample Sound).
• Wide range of articulations and playing techniques.
• User-friendly interface for quick and efficient sound shaping.
• Perfect for adding real instrument sounds to your productions.
• One of the best free plugins for authentic stringed instrument sounds.

#11. TAL-Noisemaker

TAL-Noisemaker is a versatile and powerful free VST plugin that extends beyond the capabilities of a standard subtractive synthesizer. 

It offers a huge range of sounds for making music that stands out, from deep basses and sharp leads to evolving pads and complex soundscapes. 

This free plugin includes three oscillators, a range of filter types, and an extensive modulation matrix.

Therefore, it’s very capable of producing various show-stopping timbres for all kinds of electronic music (and other genres as well, of course).

Its standout feature is the onboard effects section, which includes: 

• Reverb
• Delay
• A bit crusher

This allows you to mess around with sound processing within the plugin itself. 

TAL-Noisemaker is celebrated for its user-friendly interface and the depth of its sound design capabilities, which are pretty solid.

This makes it a preferred choice for both beginners in music production and seasoned sound designers. 

This synthesizer not only encourages experimentation with its intense sound-shaping tools but also educates you on the intricacies of synthesis through experimentation.

 

TAL-Noisemaker’s ability to save and recall presets means that users can easily share their sounds with the community, creating a (beneficial) collaborative environment.

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Three oscillators with a wide range of waveform options for rich sounds.
• Comprehensive effects section, including reverb, delay, and bit crusher.
• Extensive modulation matrix for intricate sound design possibilities.
• Efficient CPU usage ensures smooth performance in any production setup.
• One of the best free VST plugins around.

#12. TDR Nova

TDR Nova is a truly epic parallel dynamic equalizer that blends the functionalities of a parametric EQ and a dynamics processor into a single interface. 

This free VST plugin stands out for its precision in both corrective EQ tasks and creative sound-shaping.

Unique to Nova is its ability to apply dynamic processing on a per-band basis 一 allowing you to compress or expand your audio dynamically.

This makes it invaluable for both mixing and mastering. 

Its adaptive Q feature, which intelligently adjusts the Q value based on gain settings, offers an intuitive way to achieve smooth, professional equalization.

Nova also features a high-quality spectrum analyzer that provides real-time visual feedback of your signal, which helps you with the precise sculpting of frequencies. 

This level of control makes it perfect for tackling complex mixes, where space and clarity are paramount. 

Whether you’re gently reducing the resonance of a recording or aggressively shaping a sound for creative effect, TDR Nova handles the task with flair.

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Dynamic EQ capabilities for flexible sound shaping.
• Adaptive Q for musical frequency adjustments.
• Real-time spectrum analyzer for precise mixing decisions.
• Ideal for both subtle corrective work and creative effects.
• One of the best free VST plugins for dynamic equalization.

#13. Limiter №6

Limiter №6 is an in-depth mastering limiter plugin that offers a multi-stage approach to dynamic range control. 

This free VST plugin features four modules: 

• A peak limiter
• A high-frequency limiter
• A clipper
• An output protection limiter

Each contributes contributing to a clean, loud, and transparent sound. 

What makes Limiter №6 unique is its ability to emulate the behavior of analog limiters 一 providing warmth and character often missing from digital limiters.

The plugin’s versatility allows it to be used on individual tracks, busses, and the master channel, which makes it a great tool for you to have in your toolkit. 

Its true peak limiting and inter-sample peak detection ensure that your audio won’t clip in the digital domain.

Meaning, it ensures your music’s integrity across various playback systems. 

Limiter №6 is a secret weapon for achieving professional-sounding masters without spending a dime.

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Multi-module dynamic range control for detailed mastering.
• Analog warmth free emulation adds character to digital mixes.
• True peak limiting for accurate loudness management.
• Versatile for use on tracks, busses, or the master channel.
• One of the best free plugins for mastering applications.

#14. Valhalla SuperMassive

Valhalla SuperMassive is designed to create otherwordly reverb effects and delay effects that can transform any signal into an impressive soundscape. 

This free VST plugin excels in generating massive spaces, from the ethereal to the insane, making it a favorite of producers, film scorers, and sound designers.

SuperMassive uses complex feedback networks to achieve its expansive effects, offering a range of modes that each provide different echo/reverb characteristics.

What sets SuperMassive apart is its ability to endlessly sustain signals.

This creates a smooth, continuous ambient background that’s perfect for things like: 

• Pads
• Leads
• Atmospheric effects

Its intuitive, user-friendly interface makes it easy to dial in the desired sound, and the quality of the effects really can go head-to-head with some of the premium plugins. 

Whether you’re creating a dreamy backdrop for a song or adding depth to a cinematic scene, SuperMassive delivers unmatched atmospheric depth.

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Making music with epic reverb and delay effects has never been easier.
• Complex feedback networks for rich, detailed soundscapes.
• Modes offer a variety of echo densities and reverb textures.
• Perfect for creating ambient, atmospheric background effects.
• One of the best free plugins for expansive spatial effects.

#15. Saturation Knob

Saturation Knob by Softube is a powerful, easy-to-use tool for adding warmth and depth to your tracks.

It basically acts as a one-stop solution for everything from subtle harmonic enhancement to heavy distortion. 

This free plugin shines in its simple controls; a single knob determines the amount of saturation applied, which makes it incredibly intuitive. 

Yet, despite the straightforward design of this free plugin, the Saturation Knob offers three distinct, effective saturation modes:

• Keep High
• Neutral
• Keep Low

It allows you to tweak the effect to your source material (which is super valuable).

The magic of Saturation Knob lies in its ability to breathe life into digital sounds, making it perfect for warming up sterile synthesizers, thickening basslines, or adding punch to drum kits.

It’s not just about distortion 一 it’s about enhancing the harmonic richness of your sounds, making it a great tool for mixing and sound design tasks.

Whether you’re working on electronic music, rock, hip-hop, or anything in between, Saturation Knob provides that much-coveted analog warmth to your productions.

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Simple yet effective saturation with a single control knob (& single download).
• Three modes offer flexibility across different sound sources.
• Ideal for adding warmth and presence to digital recordings.
• Enhances harmonic content without overcomplicating the process.
• One of the best free plugins for easy saturation tasks.

#16. Xfer OTT

Xfer OTT is a completely free multiband compressor that delivers the aggressive dynamics control popular in electronic music. 

This free VST plugin is a software emulation of a well-known Ableton Live effect, offering upward and downward compression across three frequency bands.

What sets OTT apart is its ability to dramatically reshape the dynamics of a sound 一 making it punchier, more present, and full of character.

The interface of OTT, while compact, packs significant control, which lets you adjust the: 

• Depth
• Time
• Amount of compression applied

As well as the specific frequencies affected, naturally.

This unique VST plugin is really popular in the dance music scene for its ability to make synth leads, basses, and drums cut through a mix with unparalleled clarity and energy. 

Despite its potential for intensity, OTT can be dialed back for more subtle compression effects in your digital audio workstations, which shows its versatility.

Side note, if you’d like to learn everything about Xfer OTT, we’ve got you covered.

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Upward and downward multiband compression for detailed dynamics control.
• Transformative effect on leads, basses, and drums.
• Adjustable parameters for fine-tuning the compression effect.
• Popular in electronic music for its distinctive sound.
• One of the best free plugins for aggressive dynamic shaping.

#17. Acon Digital Multiply

Acon Digital Multiply is a versatile free chorus plugin that can give your tracks some much-needed movement, depth, and richness. 

Unlike typical chorus plugins, Multiply offers a unique twist by using a varying phase delay for each voice, which results in a more natural and varied sounding effect. 

This free plugin can generate up to six voices, which can all be adjusted for: 

• Volume
• Delay
• Detuning

So, if you’re looking for complex and captivating free VSTs that can help you bring a super versatile sound to your tracks, Acon Digital Multiply can certainly get you there.

What further sets it apart is its infused EQ and its adjustable wet/dry mix knob, which enables precise tonal shaping and blending of the effect with the original signal. 

This makes it exceptionally adaptable to a range of musical contexts, from subtle thickening of lead vocal recordings to epic transformations of popular synth pads. 

Plus, the user-friendly interface of Acon Digital Multiply makes sure that even those new to sound design can achieve professional-sounding results every time.

When it comes to audio plugins and free VSTs, even though this one was last on the list, it definitely packs a huge punch.

This Free VST Plugins Most Standout Features:

• Unique phase delay variation for natural-sounding chorus effects.
• Up to six adjustable voices for complex modulation.
• Integrated EQ for tonal shaping of the effect.
• User-friendly interface of this free VST plugin is easy and simple.
• One of the best free plugins for adding depth and movement to tracks.
• Free download/free version.

Best Free Plugins: Final Thoughts

Each one of these awesome free plugins offers a unique blend of features and capabilities.

They can help you explore new sounds and techniques without spending a penny.

Plus, they’ll help you breathe life into your mixes, enhance your sound design, and elevate your tracks to new heights.

As well as streamline your workflow and just make life easier.

They can stand up to premium options as they offer high-end sound quality and basically the same functions as more expensive software.

With them, you can produce music that competes on a professional level 一 giving your projects unparalleled depth and character. 

So, go download some of these legendary free plugins and start creating tracks that captivate your listeners and top the charts (or at least, popular playlists).

Until next time…