Free Open Source Vst Instruments
No matter what level you’re currently at with recording, it’s important to have a variety of Virtual Studio Technology (VST) to utilize. In this article, we’re looking at some of the Best VST Free and Paid Instrument Plugins.
DVS actually makes a range of free Windows VST instruments and effects which are worth checking out. The DVS Guitar is based on a sampled guitar and includes Overdrive, Reverb and Flanging. It's good for leads and heavy sounds, and very realistic if you are good with a pitch bend controller. /r/OpenSourceVSTi brings together ideas for VST & VSTi plugins/instruments, and developers of Free and Open Source (FOSS) Plugins, and standalone audio apps. Keep in mind, companies may develop & copyright tools from the posts; but we focus on OSS VST development, sharing ideas/code, furthering the spread of free information, brainstorming,. Don’t forget, also, that every issue of our sister magazine Computer Music comes with an expansive library of free instruments, effects and much more. Pick up a copy or subscribe to get your hands on the full CM Software Library. Best free synth plugin. DiscoDSP OB-Xd Mac/PC/Linux (Paid iOS version also available) VST/AU.
This will help you determine which of these programs are best for you since there’s a ton of options to choose from.
Hopefully, it’ll relieve you of the overwhelming feeling of trying to determine which of these programs is best for you.
Best VST Free Instrument Plugins
As noted, down below are ten of our favorite free VST (or audio plug-in) on synthesizers and samplers.
If you’re a beginner or want to learn how to use these products, then you should definitely consider some of these free variations.
2getheraudio Cheeze Machine
First on our list of free variations of VST for synthesizers and samplers, we have a product from 2getheraudio (together audio get it?).
Their completely free VST is deemed as the “Cheeze Machine”. The name represents exactly what the system does. It’s fun, and something everyone will love.
Overall, this is something that is surprisingly versatile. Besides the synth variations, the actual product itself includes an expanded oscillator section, convolution reverb, a vintage ensemble chorus, and 64-bit compatibility for VST, AU, AAX and other applications.
Also included, it has a bonus preview presets for Cheeze Machine Pro. Cheeze Machine Pro is an upcoming release with additional filters, pitch envelopes, and performance controls. Sweet!
All in all, this is a great product. Especially since it’s free! Consider downloading it and see how you like it for yourself.
Ample Sound Guitar M LITE II
Next up, we have a fantastic product from Ample Sound. This is a very simple and easy to use plug-in.The synthesizer itself works as an emulator for a Martin D-41 acoustic guitar. Other than that, it doesn’t do much of anything else.
However, since it’s completely free, it doesn’t hurt to download it and check it out. The reality is, having a synthesizer that emulates an acoustic guitar will be more useful to you than you might realize.
It works great and does everything you might expect it to do. Other than that, there isn’t much else to say.
Give it a download and check it out for yourself.
DSK The Grand
Next up, we have a fantastic system from DSK music. Just like the other systems in this section of the article, it’s an easy and free download.The system itself is a Grand Piano VST instrument. Very simple and easy to understand. There isn’t much beyond that.
It features 4 velocity layers, 4-6 samples/notes, has ADSR envelope control, has a reverb fx included.
Just like all of the products on this list, it’s available for Windows and Mac OS (32 and 64 bits).
If you want a simple, but fun piano VST, check it out! The free download won’t take long and you’ll be on your way to using it.
Full Bucket ModulAir
Next up, we have a fantastic product from Full Bucket Music. Deemed as the “ModulAir”, it’s a surprisingly versatile and great unit for being completely free.It’s a modular polyphonic software synthesizer for Microsoft Windows (VST) and Apple macOS (VST/AU). It’s meant as a way for high performance and low computer consumption.
Some of the features include up to 18 modules per patch, 51 module types available, polyphonic voicing, up to 64 voices polyphony, and much more.
For something completely free, you get a ton of stuff with it.
Give it a download and try it out yourself. I assure you that it’ll be totally worth the simple download.
HY-Plugins HY-Mono
Next up, we have a great product hy-plugins. Hy-plugins is a solely dedicated website for different plugins for DAWs.Making it a great source for instrument or effect plug-ins. They have easy to understand instructions for all of their plug-ins and a few different options for free versions.
As for their instrument plug-ins, this one specifically is great and free. For being completely free, it provides a decent amount of versatility.
Besides the overall functionality, it’s an easy download and you should check it out. The few seconds or minutes it takes to download are definitely worth it.
While you’re at it, check out some of their other downloads and see if anything else might interest you.
Matt Tytel Helm
Next up, we have a product from Matt Tytel deemed as “Helm”. Helm is an open-source VST synth. That means you’re free to install it anywhere on anything and edit the code to your liking.Meaning that if you’re experienced enough, you can manipulate the code to the point of creating something to exactly what you want.
This has a ton of advantages behind it. The ability to create, edit, and execute is almost endless. That is the advantage of something being open source.
As for the actual functionality, it works great if you’re not afraid to have a bunch of trial and error. Not everything will work how you want it right away, but it will if you can persevere.
All in all, give it a download. It’s definitely worth it and you might be surprised at what you might find.
ML PG8X
Next up, we have a product from KVR Audio. KVR Audio is a website dedicated to all things DAW oriented. Meaning it’s a great source to explore different options for recording.As for this specific product, it’s great. Just like everything else on this list, it’s a VST instrument plug-in. It was inspired by the JX-8P. The GUI is modeled after the pg-800, which is the external editor for the JX-8P.It has a ton of different features, such as 6 to 12 voice polyphony, an HP filter, stereo chorus, and much more.
Just like a lot of these free variations, you’ll be shocked at how much this can do. Definitely give it a download and see for yourself.
Ohm Force SymptOhm PE
Next up, we have a product from Ohmforce. Deemed as the “symptom PE”, this is a performer edition version of one of their other products.In simple terms, if you need a synth that isn’t overly complicated, then this is the product for you.The free performer edition gives you access to all of its for purchase version’s presets and a few other customizing options.
Sounds pretty cool right? For beginners, this is a great product for you to download and learn. It’s simple, easy to use, and allows you to fully understand this subject in the recording world.
Go ahead and give it a download. You won’t be disappointed!
Seaweed Audio Fathom Mono
Next up on our list, we have a product from Seaweed Audio. Deemed as the “Fathom Synth”, this is exactly what you expect it to be.A synth that is easy to use, free, and surprisingly versatile. If you want more, they have an option that provides more for a price.The Fathom is a modular VST synth that is great for crafting original waveforms with advanced modulation. Sounds great right?
However, the mono version of Fathom is what is completely free. Don’t be discouraged by this, you can accomplish a lot with the mono version.
Other than that, there isn’t much else to say. It’s great, free, and easy to use. What more could you want? Try it.
u-he Zebralette
Last our list, we have a product from Zebralette. Zebralett’s “Mini Zebra”, this is a smaller and free version of Zebra2.As noted, it’s a free synthesizer and is a basic introduction to Zebra2.
This is free for the main purpose of persuading you to try Zebra2 and upgrade.Citing that if one oscillator is as powerful as it is, imagine how much better the top-tier version is. Not to mention all the other features provided with it.
Definitely download it for yourself, and check it out! You won’t be disappointed.
Best VST Paid Instrument Plugins
For those of you who don’t know, a VST is an audio plug-in software interface that combines a software synthesizer and effects in a digital audio workstation (DAW).
In simple terms, they use a digital signal to emulate a real instrument in a digital workplace. Pretty cool right?
Down below, we’ve listed ten of our favorite for purchase VSTs and ten of our favorite free VSTs.
Spitfire Audio BBC Symphony Orchestra
First up on our list is a product from Spitfire Audio. Upon your first analysis, you may be scared away from the price of it all. However, trust me when I say that the price is worth it.
You have 55 instruments to choose from alone. This in and of itself should make the entire package worth it.
In simple terms, this is a top tier VST. The versatility of it all is staggering and will leave you with countless options to choose from. You simply can’t go wrong with this system. I don’t really know what else to say.
Definitely check it out, especially if you’re a professional recording engineer or have the ambition of becoming a professional.
Xfer Records Serum
Next up on our list, we have a product from Xfer Records.
Without going too in-depth, this system works beautifully. This wavetable synthesizer deemed as “Serum” allows for the controller to work at a rate of comfortability.
Something that is important in this work form. Factors such as high-quality sound and workflow with a sense of creativity and ease.
All in all, you can’t go wrong with this product. It works great, looks flawless, and does everything you want it to do and more.
If you can’t afford the entire price right at once, there is a very affordable monthly option that is available.
Definitely check it out, you won’t be disappointed.
Spectrasonics Keyscape
Next up on our list, we have a product from Spectrasonics. Spectrasonics has a huge list of VSTs to choose from; especially in the synthesizer world.
Make sure you look through each model to determine which one is best for you, or buy one of the box set options to get a bunch of them. It’s completely up to you, but all of them work great.
With ten years in the making, Spectrasonics crafted something special. The product features one of the largest selections of collector keyboards and it doesn’t disappoint.
All in all, you can’t go wrong with Spectrasonics. You won’t be disappointed and it’s certainly something that pro-level recording engineers need. Try it.
Kilohearts Phase Plant
Next up on our list, we have a product from Kilohearts. They refer to their VST as “Phase Plant” and they insist that it’s a versatile system for beginners or professionals.
Meaning that it operates at a rate that is comfortable, yet sophisticated enough for a professional to use. Something that is essential for this type of work.
Free Open Source Vst Instruments Vst
As for the price, it’s extremely reasonable. Compared to other VSTs of a similar caliber, this certainly delivers similar results.
All in all, you can’t go wrong with this system. It does everything you need it to do and more.
I highly recommend it, and be sure to check out some of Kilohearts other products they offer.
Spectrasonics Omnisphere 2.6
Next up on our list, we have another product from Spectrasonics. Similar to their other product on our list, this is a fantastic system.
Deemed as the “Omnisphere”, it operates at a rate of sufficiency and excellency.
The versatility behind Omnisphere is incredible. Especially since it’s one of the only software synths to feature a hardware synth integration.
Meaning it can transform over 65 well-known hardware synthesizers. Besides that, there are a ton of different sounds and options you can capture with the system.
Making it one of the best VSTs available to the public.
For the price, you certainly get what you pay for, so don’t be afraid of the price.
All in all, check it out! You definitely won’t be disappointed and you’ll be blown away by it.
Arturia Pigments 2
Next up on our list, we have a fantastic product from Arturia. Arturia doesn’t disappoint with “Pigments 2”. This system works beautifully and can do everything you want it to do and more.
Since we’re focusing on synthesizers and instruments, the actual synth mode works great. It adds another element to your overall sound.
It transforms the design of your sounds with the samples it provides. All at the simple touch of a button you can adjust the density, envelope, size, and the ability to randomize parameters.
Causing you to fully dive into the system first-hand. Leaving you with an abundance of happiness knowing what you can accomplish.
The price is very reasonable; especially with what it comes with besides the synth options.
Definitely check it out, you won’t be disappointed.
Native Instruments Reaktor 6
Next up, we have a fantastic product from Native Instruments. Deemed as “Reaktor 6”, this system delivers what you need and more.
As for the actual synth options, you can’t go wrong with this unit. You have the ability to build custom synths and designate them exactly how you want them.
Leaving you with countless options and abilities to accomplish everything you want and more.
Besides the synth options, you can discover over 70 different included instruments and thousands of different sounds in the user library.
What more could you want? It gives you everything you need and more.
As for the price, it’s very reasonable and you won’t be disappointed. Try it.
Native Instruments Massive X
Next up, we have another system from Native Instruments. Deemed as “Massive X”, this united delivers the ability to control and change sound in a way that might not seem possible.
The synth options are great. You have the ability to create incredible sounds and have complete freedom for your advance sound design.
The entire system is built for the future. Meaning that it’s built for modern-day and the future of technology in the music world.
Similar to their other products, it’s very reasonable. You don’t have to spend too much money on this system to feel accomplished.
Go ahead and check it out. I assure you that you’ll be more than satisfied with it.
Softube Modular
Next up, we have a fantastic unit from Softube. Softube created a VST called “Softube Modular” and it certainly delivers.
Creating a product with the knowledge of modular synthesizers being a way of life in the music world. Noting the endless possibilities, and creation of unique and interesting sounds as the backbone of their products.
As for the actual features of the unit, it comes with seven essential modules and 50 stock modules that allow a certain utility and mixing ability of the product.
The price is fantastic. It’s extremely affordable and delivers more than what you might expect.
Go ahead and check this fantastic product out. You won’t be disappointed, especially because of how affordable it is.
iZotope Iris 2
Last, but not least on our for purchase VST list, we have a system from iZotope. Deemed as the “Iris 2”, this is exactly what you want from a VST.
It’s simple, easy to use, and just works. The company deems the product as being something very special.
They note it as an inspiring sample-based synthesizer. Meaning it has the power of a sampler and the flexibility of a traditional synth. Something that is common and works great for these types of VSTs.
All in all, you can’t wrong with something like this. You can either buy Iris 2 for a very reasonable price, or you can buy a package deal that comes with a variety of products they offer.
Check it out!
Conclusion
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. Hopefully, you were able to determine the best free and for purchase VST (or audio plug-in) on synthesizers and samplers.
Other than that, you should be able to have a general understanding of this subject in general and why they’re needed for a studio setting. With factors such as versatility and budget in mind.
For a quick recap, we went over ten of our favorite for purchase VSTs. We went over why we liked each product and some basic features of each one.
After that, we went over ten of our favorite free VSTs. We also went over why we liked each of these products and a few basic features of each one.
It’s important to determine what you want to accomplish with a system like this. If you’re looking to do a lot then you shouldn’t be scared to invest a decent amount of money into it.
If you’re a beginner or just want to learn, then you should start out with one of the free products. The free versions of these systems will allow you to understand how they work and why they’re important.
In conclusion, you should be more comfortable with deciding what free or for purchase VST (or audio plug-in) on synthesizers and samplers is for you.
Free is the magic number… particularly when starting your music production journey, or operating on a tight budget.
Adam Hignell takes a look at some incredible VST Plugins you can get for exactly zero dollars.
Award-winning AU + VST plugins for music composition.
- Use Captain Plugins to write your own Chord Progressions, Hooks, Melodies and Basslines
- Export to your DAW
- Available on Mac and Windows.
N.B Unless stated, the following instruments are compatible with Mac and Windows OS, although not necessarily Catalina at time of publishing.
Steinberg Model E
A free clone of a classic synth, that’s so good even Hans Zimmer uses it? Step forward Steinberg’s Model E. It’s an emulation of the legendary Moog Model D, a monophonic synth that is one of the most celebrated of all time.
You know what a Model D sounds like, even if you’ve never played one, because you’ve heard in so, so many songs. It’s got analog power, character, warmth and tone in abundance – something that’s hard to emulate digitally. Many manufacturers have tried and failed to come up with something as big-sounding as Steinberg’s freebie!
It even goes further than the classic monophonic, 3 VCO engine, by adding up to 64 voices and the capacity for 16 multitimbral parts.
Free Open Source Vst Instruments Free
Dexed
Disclosure alert; a good number of the best free VST Instruments are clones of famous classics. So it is with Dexed, which is technically a patch editor for the Yamaha DX7. However, it has its own in-built FM synth engine which sounds pretty amazing. It isn’t the easiest to use interface, but it’s a very faithful recreation of the DX7, and it can roll out some amazingly diverse sounds. There are even some decent preset patches to get you started.
U-He Tyrell N6
I hope you’re sitting comfortably, because this one’s a bit of a story…
The Tyrell N6 has no right to be free, it’s that good. If I could only pick one free synth, it would be this. In fact, I often choose it above VST Instruments with a considerably higher price-tag.
It’s not so much a clone, as an homage. Rather than recreating the sound of a particular classic synth, it can recreate many such legends, like the JUNO-106 or the Moog Model D. The 8-voice engine and architecture was created by U-He, so you know it’s gonna sound pretty decent. There are 2 VCO oscillators and a ludicrously deep Sub Oscillator. VCO Oscillator 1 has 4 wave shapes; Square, Triangle, Saw and what looks to be a Super Saw, while Oscillator 2 has either Triangle or the aforementioned Suoper Saw. Interestingly, both oscillators are wavetable, so varying degrees of input can be garnered from each shape. Presumably, the Sub Oscillator is a Sine wave. In lay terms, that just means there are 3 powerful voices to create your patch, which you can mix together in different degrees for tone control.
There are also Noise, Ring Modulation and Feedback engines, plus Vibrato, Glide and a sweet-sounding Pulse Width Modulator. Add in 2 ADSR envelopes, 2 LFOs, a frankly brilliant Chorus and an equally brilliant Ladder Filter. And, a Mod Matrix… Seriously, this is a synth that should not be free!
The interestng back-story to the N6 starts with a bunch of Germans who love the movie Blade-Runner. Inspired by the replicants (AKA Clones) of the movie, they decided to create their own replicant of a classic synth architecture. Most would have stopped there, but thanks to continuous input from U-He, the synth gets regular updates (including Catalina compatibility) and has even been integral to Behringer’s design of their popular DeepMind hardware synth line.
Martin Lüder’s PG-8X
For me, one of the most underrated classic synths is the Roland JX8-P. Full disclosure; I do on one, and am hopelessly biased. That said, if you want creamy, warm leads, pads, organs and electric pianos, it’s one of the most elegant options going. It can also do unique, abrasive and wild sounds thanks to its powerful DCO/VCO oscillators. Although you do have to ignore the clunky user interface.
For whatever reason, nobody seems to have wanted to create a VST version, until Martin Lüder. He created an open source VST version that doubles as a patch editor for the hardware – similarly to Dexed. And it sounds great. It even has an additional Chorus effect and greater polyphony (12 voices, not 6). If you’re after deep pads or classic 80s style synth sounds, this free plugin instrument might be a secret weapon for you.
Spitfire Audio – LABS
Spitfire Audio are a London-based collective of musicians, producers, engineers and composers who are all active in the industry at large, and contribute their skills and sounds to the ever-expanding LABS platform. Part sample library, part VST Instrument collection, delve into the world of LABS and you’ll discover a rich collection of instantly useful sounds. Regularly updated, and with collections as esoteric as ‘Granular Whalesong’ and ‘Moon Guitar’, it’s a stunning repsoitory of pro-grade sounds and samples.
To use LABS, you need to install the app from their website, open it and install the sound packs you desire – ie all of them! Then, open your DAW and load the LABS VST Instrument. All your downloaded/installed packs are available as sampler instruments.
Choose a sound and play with your MIDI or computer keyboard. You can control velocity and volume, plus a couple of effects per pack. LABS can be assigned to any MIDI channel just like a regular synth.
NI Komplete Start
Funnily enough, my description of Spitfire LABS applies almost verbatim to NI Komplete Start. Like LABS, it’s a sample-based VST Instrument that you download and install sample packs to play in the UI. Unlike LABS, however, Kontakt Start also comes with 18 effects, plus several full synths, and a bunch of loops and samples. It’s more than enough for any rookie producer to get up and running withoput spending a penny!
Looking for free effects plugins? Check out our top selections here
About the author:
Adam Hignell is a music producer, mastering engineer, DJ and label-owner based in Brighton, UK. When not providing content and tech support for Mixed In Key, he produces music under the alias Don Dayglow, provides professional mastering and mixing services, and runs the independent Disco/House label Particle Zoo.
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