15 Top VST Plugins To Completely Revolutionize Your Beats

VST (virtual studio technology) plugins have the power to completely change your production game. 

They can transform ordinary tracks into professional-grade productions and enhance your creativity by offering endless sound design possibilities.

Plus, streamline your workflow to help you produce faster, of course.

As well as help you fine-tune every element of your mix, add unique textures, and elevate your music to a whole new level. 

That’s why we’re breaking down the 15 top VST plugins for music producers at all levels, all including standout feature/functions for top-tier production, like:

• Cutting-edge sound design tools ✓
• Advanced modulation capabilities ✓
• Comprehensive effect suites ✓
• High-quality presets across genres ✓
• AI-powered generation features ✓
• Real-time sound morphing interfaces ✓
• Versatile synthesis engines ✓
• Intuitive user interfaces ✓
• Multi-genre support ✓
• Seamless DAW integration ✓
• Extensive customization options ✓

After this article, you’ll have access to the top VST plugins in the game and learn everything about them (not just a few sentences, like other articles).

This way, you’ll be able to knock out professional-sounding tracks all day and push the boundaries of your creativity to the limit.

Plus, of course, transform your production process like a true professional. 

So, let’s dive right in…

#1. Zen Master by Unison Audio (Free Plugin)

Zen Master by Unison Audio is a super versatile and intuitive lo-fi plugin designed to instantly add warmth, character, and vintage sounds to your tracks. 

This epic free plugin is centered around five primary effect controls: 

#1. Hypnosis (a detune and stereo width effect).

#2. Imbalance (which introduces tape-like wobble).

#3. Electrify (a gentle bit-crusher that adds digital distortion without harshness).

#4. Vinyl (which injects dynamic noise that follows the rhythm of your track).

#5. Ascend (a parallel reverb processor that enhances atmosphere without losing the dry signal). 

Zen Master is also highly user-friendly, so all music producers, no matter the level can really make their sounds unique and intriguing.

Plus, its visual user interface adds a dynamic element to the production process, with real-time feedback that makes adjusting the effects both intuitive and engaging. 

Zen Master has quickly become a go-to tool for those looking for the ultimate lo-fi vibe, and is seriously taking over the industry.

And it’s not just sick for a free version of a plugin, it really goes toe-to-toe with premium versions as well, guaranteed.

Side note, if you want access to the hottest free packs in the game, we’ve got you.

Download Zen Master Now

Key Features of this VST Plugin:

• #1 in the world of free plugins/free instruments
• Five core effects for lo-fi warmth and character
• Hypnosis and Imbalance knobs for detune and wobble effects
• Electrify knob for subtle bit-crushing
• Endless sonic possibilities
• Ascend knob for parallel reverb processing
• One of the top VST plugins/best free VST plugins available

#2. Bass Dragon by Unison Audio

Bass Dragon by Unison Audio is an AI-powered bassline generator designed to streamline the creation of basslines and 808 patterns across 30 different genres. 

It’s built on a sophisticated algorithm that combines over 19,500 genre-specific MIDI bassline fragments with:

• Cutting-edge machine learning
• Chord detection technologies

With Bass Dragon, you can instantly generate complex basslines that fit perfectly with your track’s chord progression, whatever you’re going for.

It also features a built-in synth with 200 factory presets, so you can create custom bass sounds on the fly. 

Bass Dragon also includes a piano roll for fine-tuning your basslines, and nine built-in effects such as saturation, bitcrushing, and reverb to further shape your sound. 

It’s seriously impressive, there’s no two ways about it.

The user-friendly interface and AI capabilities make Bass Dragon a powerful tool for both seasoned music producers and beginners looking to enhance their tracks like never before.

Download Bass Dragon Now

Key Features of this VST Plugin:

• AI-powered bassline generation tailored to 30 different genres
• Built-in synth with 200 presets and nine adjustable effects
• Endless possibilities for producers at all levels
• Advanced chord detection for seamless integration with your tracks
• User-friendly interface with a customizable piano roll for fine-tuning
• One of the top VST plugins/best VST plugins available

#3. Drum Monkey by Unison Audio

Drum Monkey by Unison Audio is a cutting-edge drum loop generator designed to create perfect, genre-specific drum patterns with just a few clicks. 

Built using a killer algorithm that combines over 7,500 genre-specific MIDI drum patterns and 3,000 professional-quality drum samples, it’s mind-blowing.

You can generate fresh and unique drum loops tweaked to your project, regardless of the vibe.

Whether you’re working in hip-hop, EDM, rock (or any of the other 30 supported/most popular genres), Drum Monkey provides consistent, high-quality results.

It also features a built-in piano roll for fine-tuning your loops, complete with: 

• Velocity
• Swing
• Humanization controls

Drum Monkey also includes a powerful saturator designed specifically for drums 一 allowing you to add punch and warmth to your loops. 

The sample editor enables users to tweak individual drum hits, adjust ADSR envelopes, and apply effects like tone-shifting and fattening. 

Plus, it supports the import of your own samples, so you’ll have limitless possibilities when it comes to customization. 

With its drag-and-drop functionality, you can easily export loops as audio or MIDI files directly into your DAW​ and create the most mind-blowing beats around.

Download Drum Monkey Now

Key Features of this VST Plugin:

• Instantly generate genre-specific drum loops with over 7,500 MIDI patterns and 3,000 samples
• Built-in piano roll, saturator, and sample editor for detailed customization
• Supports sample import and the creation of custom drum kits
• Drag-and-drop export of loops in both audio and MIDI formats
• One of the top VST plugins/best VST plugins available

#4. MIDI Wizard 2.0 by Unison Audio

MIDI Wizard 2.0 by Unison Audio is a powerful AI-driven tool designed to instantly generate high-quality chord progressions and melodies across 32 different genres. 

It operates with three main modes: 

• Chord Mode 一 Which can create intricate chord progressions in either block format or rhythm.
• Melody Mode 一 Which generates compelling top-line melodies.
• Hybrid Mode 一 Which combines both algorithms with AI, producing complex musical ideas that blend chords and melodies

One of the standout features of MIDI Wizard 2.0 is its built-in piano roll and sound editing tools.

It allows you to fine-tune generated MIDI patterns directly within the plugin. 

Also, it includes a synthesizer and sampler with 200 factory presets, along with 16 built-in effects such as reverb, chorus, and compression.

So, needless to say, you’ll have everything needed to customize your sounds without leaving this VST plugin. 

And yes, it also offers both MIDI and audio export options for greater flexibility. 

With its genre-specific algorithms and advanced features, MIDI Wizard 2.0 is designed to inspire creativity and streamline your music production process​.

Download MIDI Wizard 2.0 Now

Key Features of this VST Plugin:

• Three generation modes: Chord, Melody, and Hybrid
• Built-in piano roll, synthesizer, and 16 effects for full customization
• Supports genre-specific MIDI generation across 32 genres
• Endless sonic possibilities to help you completely transform your track
• Drag-and-drop functionality with both MIDI and audio export options
• One of the top VST plugins/best VST plugins available

#5. Serum by Xfer Records

Serum is a top-tier wavetable synth VST known for its ultra-clean oscillators and advanced sound design capabilities. 

It features a crazy wavetable editor where users can import audio files and create custom wavetables with tools like FFT and additive synthesis. 

Serum’s interface is highly intuitive, with drag-and-drop modulation making it easy to create complex, evolving sounds. 

It includes a versatile effects rack with 10 effects like extensive reverb and distortion (which you can reorder all day).

Plus, supports up to 16 unison voices per oscillator for the thickest sound imaginable.

This combination of flexibility, sound quality, and ease of use makes Serum a favorite among modern music producers, and that won’t change anytime soon, trust me.

Side note, if you want to learn all about mastering Serum or LFO Tool, we’ve got you.

Key Features of this VST Plugin:

• Ultra-clean oscillators with advanced sound design tools
• Epic wavetable editor for custom sound creation
• Plus real-time wavetable manipulation
• Intuitive user interface with drag-and-drop modulation
• 10 re-orderable effects, including reverb and distortion
• Perfect for advanced music production tasks
• One of the top VST plugins/best synth plugins available

#6. Spectrasonics Omnisphere

Spectrasonics Omnisphere is a hybrid synthesizer that seamlessly blends digital and analog sound sources 一 including a massive library of over 14,000 patches. 

The dual-layer interface allows for intricate sound stacking, while the unique Orb interface enables real-time sound morphing. 

Omnisphere also integrates with hardware synthesizers, so it’s perfect for both studio use and live performances. 

It supports multiple synthesis techniques (including granular and wavetable synthesis) providing endless sound design possibilities. 

This extensive feature set alone makes Omnisphere a go-to choice for music producers across all genres, like electronic music, but there are many levels for you to explore.

Key Features of this VST Plugin:

• Extensive library with over 14,000 patches
• Dual-layer interface for complex sound stacking
• Real-time sound morphing with the Orb interface
• Integration with hardware synthesizers
• Perfect to help you add analog warmth
• One of the top VST plugins/best VST plugins available

#7. Native Instruments Kontakt 7

Native Instruments Kontakt 7 is the latest iteration of the industry-standard sampling platform, renowned for its expansive library and powerful sound engine. 

In fact, it’s the largest virtual instrument platform in the entire world.

The latest version introduces a modernized HiDPI browser 一 making it easier to search, filter, and preview sounds across an extensive collection of over 900 instruments. 

The revamped Factory Library includes meticulously sampled VST instruments from various genres.

It ranges from orchestral sections by Orchestral Tools to rare analog synths, and everything in between, so you’ll have endless options to explore.

Kontakt 7 also supports seamless hardware integration (particularly with Native Instruments’ Komplete Kontrol keyboards).

Meaning, you’ll have intuitive control over key parameters and real-time performance features, which is awesome.

The platform’s extended functionality includes advanced scripting and third-party instrument support, so both sound designers and composers love it.

I mean, I’m sure you’ve heard of Native Instruments and the quality of everything their name is on, this VST plugin is no different.

Key Features of this Native Instruments Plugin:

• Modernized HiDPI browser for efficient sound navigation
• Extensive Factory Library with over 900 virtual instruments
• Seamless integration with Komplete Kontrol hardware
• Advanced scripting and third-party virtual instrument 
• Very famous in the world of music production
• One of the top VST plugins/best VST plugins available

#8. FabFilter Pro-Q 3

FabFilter Pro-Q 3 is a highly acclaimed equalizer plugin famous for its precision and flexibility when it comes to mixing and mastering. 

It features up to 24 EQ bands that each offer a range of filter types, including: 

• Bell
• Shelf
• Notch 
• All with flexible slope settings

Its dynamic EQ feature allows for real-time frequency adjustments based on the input signal 一 providing smooth and transparent dynamic processing. 

Pro-Q 3 also includes a natural phase mode and a zero-latency mode, which is dope.

Its intuitive interface is designed for speed and efficiency, with spectrum analyzer options and the ability to create EQ bands directly on the spectrum display. 

The combination of these features makes FabFilter Pro-Q 3 an essential tool for achieving professional-level mixes and one of the top VST plugins around.

Key Features of this VST Plugin:

• Up to 24 EQ bands with various filter types and slope settings
• Dynamic EQ for real-time frequency adjustments
• Great for all levels of music production
• Natural phase mode and zero-latency mode for different processing needs
• Intuitive interface with spectrum analyzer and direct band creation
• One of the top VST plugins/best mastering plugins available

#9. Soundtoys Decapitator

Soundtoys Decapitator is a highly regarded analog saturation modeler that emulates the sound of classic hardware gear. 

It offers five distinct saturation models based on iconic preamps, including: 

• The Ampex 350 Tape Drive
• The Neve 1057

It lets you add a range of analog warmth-style distortion to your tracks that really spark that nostalgia in people.

Decapitator also features a “Punish” button that ups the input gain by 20dB 一 driving the saturation to more extreme levels for more aggressive sounds. 

It also includes controls for tone shaping, such as a low cut, high cut, and tone knob, which interact dynamically with the saturation to create a variety of tonal colors.

The mix knob allows for easy blending of the dry and processed signals, making it perfect for both subtle enhancements and heavy distortion effects.

Key Features of this VST Plugin:

• Five distinct saturation models based on classic analog gear
• “Punish” button for extreme saturation and overdrive
• Endless sonic possibilities
• Dynamic tone shaping with low cut, high cut, and tone controls
• Mix knob for blending dry and processed signals
• Super impressive saturation plugin
• One of the top VST plugins/best VST plugins available

#10. Output Portal

Output Portal is the ultimate granular effects plugin designed to transform audio in real-time by applying complex and evolving textures. 

Unlike traditional granular synthesis, Portal allows you to manipulate and warp your own sounds in a super musical and intuitive way.

With, by the way, an emphasis on retaining the original character of the input signal. 

The plugin features a circular XY control interface, which allows for smooth transitions between different parameters and effects.

This makes it easy to create dynamic and evolving soundscapes. 

Portal also includes a huge range of built-in presets and extensive modulation options, so you can easily generate unique effects or dive deeper into custom sound design. 

Dealer’s choice how creative you get because they sky’s the limit.

Its ability to stretch, pitch, and granularize audio in a controlled yet creative manner is another reason it’s considered one of the top VST plugins around, and rightfully so.

That’s why many top producers and sound designers recommend it for adding a unique edge to music, making it one of the top VST plugins around. 

Key Features of this VST Plugin:

• Real-time granular effects with a focus on musicality
• Circular XY control interface for intuitive sound manipulation
• Extensive range of presets and extensive modulation options
• Packs a lot for a single plugin
• Ability to stretch, pitch, and granularize audio while retaining original character
• One of the top VST plugins/best VST plugins available

#11. ValhallaDSP ValhallaPlate

ValhallaDSP ValhallaPlate is an advanced plate reverb plugin that emulates the classic sound of steel plate reverbs from the 1960s and 1970s. 

It features twelve unique reverb algorithms, each designed to capture different tonal characteristics and decay behaviors.

It ranges from bright and sharp to deep and dark, so that’s pretty cool.

You can control the reverb’s size and decay time so it mimics everything from small, intimate spaces to large, expansive environments. 

ValhallaPlate is known for its high echo density and frequency-dependent decay, which creates a solid and immersive reverb experience. 

It also supports mono-in, stereo-out configurations, so mixing is ideal, too.

Bottom line, ValhallaPlate is highly regarded for its ability to add warmth and depth to vocals, drums, and other sampled instruments.

Key Features of this VST Plugin:

• Twelve reverb algorithms emulating classic plate reverbs
• High echo density with frequency-dependent decay
• Adjustable size and decay for versatile reverb effects
• Perfect addition to any music production toolkit
• Endless sonic possibilities
• Mono-in, stereo-out configurations for enhanced mixing flexibility
• One of the top VST plugins/best VST plugins available

#12. Waves C6 Multiband Compressor

Waves C6 Multiband Compressor is a powerful tool for dynamic control, combining the functionality of a standard compressor with the precision of multiband processing.

 

It features six fully adjustable bands, including: 

• Four main bands
• Two floating bands

So, you can target specific frequency ranges with surgical precision. 

It’s perfect for both corrective and creative purposes, so you can shape the dynamics of individual virtual instruments or entire mixes with great flexibility. 

And my favorite part is that it also includes features like sidechain support, allowing for frequency-specific compression based on an external signal, and a dynamic EQ mode.

This adjusts the EQ curve in response to the input signal, if you’re unsure.

Bottom line, it’s essential for mastering, mixing, and even live sound situations where dynamic control is super important.

Key Features of this VST Plugin:

• Six adjustable bands for precise multiband compression
• Floating bands for targeted dynamic control
• Sidechain support for frequency-specific compression
• Dynamic EQ mode for responsive EQ adjustments
• Great for all levels of music production
• One of the top VST plugins/best VST plugins available

#13. Arturia Pigments 5

Arturia Pigments 5 is the latest version of this multi-engine synthesizer, featuring multi-core CPU support for improved performance.

As well as reduced CPU load on complex patches. 

It also introduces external audio processing 一 allowing you to route and manipulate external sounds through Pigments’ powerful filters and effects. 

The updated sequencer now includes a generative algorithm for one-click pattern creation, along with enhanced playback modes.

Plus a new pattern browser for super easy management. 

Pigments 5 also added:

• 63 new wavetables
• A variety of new samples
• Over 100 fresh factory presets

The revamped Play View simplifies the user interface 一 making it more user-friendly while maintaining its impressive sound design capabilities. 

These upgrades make Pigments 5 a top choice for modern music production​, and one of my personal favorite new plugins/upgrades.

Key Features of this VST Plugin:

• Multi-core CPU support for enhanced performance
• External audio processing through advanced filters and effects
• Generative sequencer with new playback modes and pattern browser
• 63 new wavetables and expanded preset library
• You can create your own patches all day
• One of the top VST plugins/best VST plugins available​

#14. XLN Audio Addictive Drums 2

XLN Audio Addictive Drums 2 is a sick drum production studio that offers an extensive collection of: 

• Drum kits
• MIDI rhythms
• Mixing tools

It provides a huge range of acoustic and electronic drum sounds, recorded in top-tier studios, and allows for detailed customization of each drum’s sound. 

Addictive Drums 2 includes a flexible mixing environment with built-in effects such as EQ, compression, reverb, and tape saturation.

You can knock out professional drum tracks all day without ever leaving.

The interface is user-friendly, with drag-and-drop functionality for MIDI patterns and the ability to fine-tune every aspect of the drum kits, from mic placements to drum tuning.

 

Whether you’re producing rock, jazz, electronic, or hip-hop, Addictive Drums 2 provides everything you’ll need to create authentic and dynamic drum tracks.

Key Features of this VST Plugin:

• Extensive library of acoustic and electronic drum kits
• High-quality recordings from top studios with detailed sound customization
• Built-in effects including EQ, compression, reverb, and tape saturation
• User-friendly interface with drag-and-drop MIDI functionality
• Endless sonic capabilities
• One of the top VST plugins/best VST plugins available

#15. iZotope Ozone 11

iZotope Ozone 11 is the latest version of the industry-standard mastering suite, introducing several new features.

This includes the Clarity module, which enhances the spectral detail of your tracks, ensuring a clear and well-defined sound without dullness. 

The Stem Focus feature allows precise control over individual elements in a mix.

So, you can apply effects to specific stems like vocals or drums without affecting the entire track as a whole.

Ozone 11 also includes an Upward Compress feature in the Maximizer, which boosts quieter sections of your mix.

It adds even more energy and detail without sacrificing overall loudness, hence why it’s considered one of the top VST plugins in the game.

Plus, it also offers Transient/Sustain processing, which lets you separately enhance the transient and sustain portions of your audio, providing more control over the dynamics of your mix. 

• Pro Tip

The updated Master Assistant uses AI to help you achieve a professional sound by analyzing your mix and suggesting optimal settings. It makes it easier for both beginners and experienced users to produce high-quality masters.

Key Features of this VST Plugin:

• Clarity module for enhanced spectral detail and clear sound
• Stem Focus for precise control over individual mix elements
• Upward Compress in Maximizer for boosting quieter sections without losing loudness
• Transient/Sustain processing for dynamic control
• AI-powered Master Assistant for professional sound with ease
• One of the top VST plugins/mastering plugins available

Top VST Plugins: Final Thoughts

The top VST plugins we’ve covered are truly the best tools out there for taking your production skills to the next level. 

Each of these top VST plugins brings something special to the table, whether it’s cutting-edge sound design, intuitive interfaces, or powerful features, it’s all there.

It makes creating music more fun and effective. 

These top VST plugins aren’t just about adding new sounds to your library…

They’re about transforming your workflow, sparking creativity, and helping you bang out tracks that really stand out over the competition.

With them, you’ll have everything you need to push your music forward, no matter what genre you’re producing.

So, dive in, go experiment, and let these top VST plugins help you bring your musical vision to life like never before.

Until next time…