The Best Plugins for Music Production
Hey everyone, this week we're talking about Plugins! What are they, and what are my recommendations for the best ones to get. I'll be giving you my top used plugins as well as a brief overview of each one, so you can decide which one is right for you! Let's get started!
First of all, what is a Plugin? A plugin is basically a software that allows you to create and produce music. Typically, they're used within DAWs, hence the "plugin" nickname. You may have heard them referred to as VSTs, or, if you're a Mac OS user, AUs. There are many different types of Plugins available, each with its own unique capabilities.
Slate Digital
For starters, I highly recommend Slate Digital. Slate Digital is a leading provider of audio plugins and software. Their products are used by millions of people around the world, and they are known for their high quality and innovative designs. If you are looking for a VST that can help you produce professional sounding tracks, then Slate Digital is definitely worth checking out. The best part, though, is that Slate Digital has an All Access Pass where you can pay a monthly subscription fee to access every single VST they have, as well as some VSTs from partner companies like Kilohearts and Sonic Academy.
If you have a small budget and need an all-in-one solution, Slate Digital is definitely the VST company I’d recommend for you.
Autotune
Next would be Autotune. Autotune is a plugin made by Antares and is one of my go-to plugins for pitch correction or vocal editing. It's pretty self explanatory, but it helps tighten vocals, guitars, and even synths depending on how you use it! It's definitely one that I highly recommend. If Autotune is out of your budget, Slate Digital has their own version called Meta-Tune that works great as well!
FabFilter
Next on our list is FabFilter. FabFilter has a great suite of plugins that I use on almost every project. The one specific plugin I recommend is Fabfilter Pro-Q 3. This is my go to equalizer plugin, and helps me edit the tone and sound of the elements in my productions. Your DAW most likely has a stock EQ that you can use, but if you're looking for the next step, Pro-Q 3 is a great upgrade!
Spitfire
Next on our list is Spitfire. Spitfire has a great suite of amazing sounding plugins that are super budget friendly. In fact, they have a plugin with an entire library of unique sounds called Spitfire LABS. Some of my favorites include their Soft Piano and Amplified Cello Quartet. If you're looking for a bunch of free and unique sounds to put into your writing, Spitfire LABS is definitely something you want to download… and NOW!
iZotope
Last but not least on today's list is iZotope. I'd recommend iZotope to anyone looking to learn to mix and start leveling up on producing. iZotope doesn't provide many sound design or writing plugins, but they're amazing at making effects plugins. Some of my go-tos are Neutron and Ozone. Neutron is an AI assisted effect plugin. It'll analyze your track and suggest EQ curves and compressor settings to help mix your track together. Ozone is a mastering plugin and helps finish out your track by making it louder and dialing in some finishing touches.
iZotope also has a subscription package where you can get all of their plugins for a single monthly payment!
And there you have it! Those are some of my favorite music production plugins. I hope this gave you a better idea of which plugins are available across your productions. These are just a few Plugins on the market today. Of course, there are plenty more out there to explore. Have you tried any of these? What are some of your favorites?
Let us know… and happy producing!
- Spike