Over 400 free VST plugins and VST instruments to use with FL Studio, Ableton Live, and Pro Tools. Includes Bass, Synths, Pianos, Strings. Nice free piano VST based on spectral morphing. VST based on a collection of samples of an upright piano. Glue Reeds by Mokafix Audio. A great warm sound that you’ll learn to love. Free String Instrument VST Plugins. Produce some electronic bass, acoustic sound, leads, slap and ring tones with this VST! Compatibility: Our virtual instruments are compatible with all VST and AU plugin host applications on 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows and macOS. Keep in mind that macOS Catalina is NOT supported at the moment. Installation: On Windows, extract the downloaded archive to your VST plugins folder (the one which is scanned by your DAW). VST 4 FREE - Free Audio Plug-ins and Archives Free audio plugins archive - Instruments and effects for audio software. Plugins for Cubase, FL studio, Reaper, Ableton and other VST/AU platforms. Free VST Plugins are one of the most exciting things about mixing. In the past it was impossible to imagine that so many quality tools could be available at no cost. Today there are more great free plugins than ever before, but the freeware scene is always changing. How can you know which free VSTs. These days, all you need is a killer VST plugin along with some impulses to achieve stellar results. In some cases, you don’t even need impulses. If that wasn’t awesome enough, you can even get some great sounding VSTs for free. That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this guide – free guitar VST plugins that sound ultra-realistic.

Virtual instruments are software emulations of traditional instruments or hardware electronic musical instruments.

There is a staggering range of virtual instruments available nowadays, covering multi-timbral rompler modules to dedicated emulations of guitars, basses, drums, keyboards, and more.

Some of these VSTi plugins (as they’re also called) are free. So in this article we’ll take a look at some of the best free virtual instruments you can download today. Many of which are pro worthy.

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Intro: About Virtual Instruments

The benefits of virtual instruments are fairly obvious. They take up much less space than their hardware equivalents, they don’t overheat, and many of them have virtually unlimited polyphony. They are also much easier to edit and they almost never break down.

Here we run down some of the most intriguing virtual instruments currently available. Although some purists may scoff at the idea of these replacing their well-loved guitars or keyboards, there is no denying that they provide a surprising range of great sounds at a price that even professional musicians will appreciate.

Best Free VSTi Plugins

The List

The Roundup

Native Instruments’ Kontakt Player is arguably the Don of all free virtual instrument plug-ins. Based on the company’s own hugely successful Kontakt sampler, Kontakt Player effectively hosts all sample-based instruments developed for its more fully-featured big brother.

The compatibility goes the other way as well. All free instruments developed specifically for Kontakt Player will load up and play in the full version of Kontakt. Between the two, there is a staggering assortment of free and paid instruments, all boasting of the trademark Native Instrument quality.

To get budget-savvy musicians and producers started, NI offers a free Kontakt Factory Selection consisting of 50 premium instruments. Some of these are slightly cut-down versions of the instruments developed for Kontakt, while some are full versions developed specifically for Kontakt Player.

While Kontakt Player focuses mainly on standard instrument libraries, Native Instruments’ Reaktor Player is geared more towards the synthesis side of things.

Demonstration

Reaktor is of course the full-blown modular synthesis environment that gives users unparalleled and unlimited opportunity to design virtually any type of synthesizer, sequencer, or signal processor they could think of from scratch. With Reaktor Player, users are able to play back a wide variety of instruments and effects developed in and for Reaktor, with a more modest set of editing capabilities.

As with Kontakt Player, there is a huge range of ready-made instruments available for use in Reaktor Player. NI even offers two free devices to get you started: the Blocks Wired pre-patched modular synth and the Mikro Prism synthesizer.

Reaktor Player obviously doesn’t come close to providing the depth of power and customizability offered by the full version of Reaktor. Nevertheless, it is a good introduction to modular synthesis. Furthermore, the availability of hundreds of Reaktor instruments cover a board range of sound-crafting options.

Ample Guitar M Lite is the free version of Ample Sounds’ popular AGM guitar simulator. Emulating the warm, rich tones of the Martin D-41 acoustic guitar, Ample Guitar M Lite is now on its second version.

For the price of a free download, you get an enhanced set of features that now match the capabilities of the full version. The note range now spans E1 – C5, and the plug-in now works as a standalone instrument. Even if you do opt to use the instrument in your DAW, multiple instances will take up much less resources than before, and they will load up faster as well.

Demonstration

As you may have guessed from the name, Ample Bass P Lite is Ample Sound’s free bass guitar sample player plug-in. A cut-down version of the full Ample Bass P II component of the company’s Bass Series product line, this plug-in has fewer samples and fewer round robin variations than the full version. It also has a smaller note range than the paid product, covering D1 to F4. Nevertheless, the Ample Bass P Lite does a good job of cranking out the distinctive tones of the Fender Precision Bass, which it models.

Manda Audio’s MT Power Drum Kit is a free drum sampler that has a fairly wide selection of acoustic drum kit sounds. Great care has been taken to record and process the original samples, giving users a range of high-quality drum sounds perfectly suited for pop, rock, and even metal.

Those who wish to process their drum sounds with their own plug-ins might not appreciate the fact that the MT Power Drum’s sounds are already processed. Nevertheless, EQ and compression were applied quite tastefully, and the sounds should fit in well in most mixes.

Demonstration

Togu Audio Line has garnered quite a bit of acclaim for its excellent line of synthesizers and effects processors, a number of which are free. NoiseMaker is one of these, and it compares favorably to the company’s own paid emulation of the Roland Juno 106 analog synth, the TAL-U-NO-LX.

The NoiseMaker incorporates some of TAL’s more popular effects processors on board. There is the Juno-derived chorus with two modes for starters, along with a reverb, a delay, and a bitcrusher, all of which exist as free standalone plug-ins.

DistroCore’s DC Bazz::Murda is a bass and kick synthesizer that is capable of a surprisingly wide array of sounds. Although aggressive and distorted industrial sounds are its forte, it can be dialed back for more subdued tones as well. Even so, this is one plug-in that was obviously designed to get as loud and nasty as possible. For some users, that could be a good thing!

Top Pick

Native Instruments’ Kontakt Player and Reaktor Player are a couple of the best free virtual instruments that you can get, without a doubt. They provide a superb one-two punch that simply can’t be beat.

Between the two, you pretty much have all your bases covered, whether you need bread-and-butter rompler sounds, exotic World Music libraries, or synthetic sounds ranging from vintage to cutting-edge.

Given the wide range of sounds they cover and the trademark NI quality, these two are neck-and-neck as our top picks for best virtual instrument plug-ins.

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.

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.

Best Free Vst Instruments 2020

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

Vst Plugins Free Download 64 Bit

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. Free music creation software with vst support.

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.

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.

Free Vst Instrument Plugins 2020

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.

Download Free Vst Plugins Instruments

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.

Free Vst Instruments Plugins 32 Bit

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.

Free Vst Instruments Plugins 64 Bit

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.