#ARP Solina String Ensemble

[cannedbluesblog]

Jon Lord with ARP Synths

[cosmonautroger]

[burlveneer-music]

Aldorande - deux - being their second album of 70s-style funky fusion

Favorite Recordings proudly presents Deux, second album of French Jazz-Funk quartet Aldorande. In this new chapter, the four explorers pursue their interstellar trip on the Aldorande planet, deploying their ever deeper love for the 70's Jazz-Funk & Fusion scene. Extending their first visions of this new world, the bigger-than-life arrangements of this second album reflect again their high attention to dramatic narrative schemes, breezy Brazilian vibes, tempestuous funky grooves and strong cosmic melodies from outer space. Classic and contemporary at the same time, Deux is built for the like-minded souls still looking for the perfect beat. Twisting time and space but never forcing the groove, the band dives more profoundly into the Cortex influence of their compositions, with intense female back vocals fitting perfectly into their cinematographic vision. Like a cry in space, could these esoteric incantations be heard by Aldorande's divinities? Or will they be more impressed by the super-tight rhythm section with its bangin' basslines or an irresistible blend of drums and percussion? In the end, they probably would have to surrender after hearing the infinite echoes of the synthesizers and horns reflecting in the atmosphere. Deep and thoughtful, the travel has only begun but it seems that so much has already been experienced. Breaking the code, they opened the gates to a rebirth. One that could be only accomplished by finding the “Pierre des Mondes”, deeply buried somewhere on Aldorande - the only key to solve the riddle of the groove. Mission accepted. Mathieu Edouard - drums Erwan Loeffel - atabaques, timbales, octobans, cuica, claves, triangles, karignan, bells, woodblocks, shakers, caxixis, shekere, tambourine, cowbells Virgile Raffaëlli - bass, Mellotron on "Arcane 17" Florian Pellissier - Fender Rhodes, E7 Hohner Clavinet, Yamaha CP-70B, Fazioli Grand Piano, Moog Minimoog, Sequential Prophet 6, ARP Solina String Ensemble Laurent Guillet - guitars on "Vortex des Possibles" & "Prometheus Asylum" Paul Bouclier - trumpet Benoit Giffard - trombone Frank Chatona - tenor sax Akemi Fujimori - back vocals Cléo Pénet - back vocals Lea Moreau - back vocals Al Sunny - lead & back vocals on "La Promesse au Soleil"

[wildoute]

A composition for Saxophone, Strings, Keyboards and Electronics entitled ‘Promises’ by Sam Shepherd.Pharoah Sanders: Tenor Saxophone and Voice.Sam Shepherd: Piano, Harpsichord, Celesta, Fender Rhodes, Hammond B3, Oberheim 4 voice & OB-Xa, Solina String Ensemble, Therevox ET-4.3, EMS Synthi, ARP 2600 and Buchla 200e.The strings of the London Symphony Orchestra.Cover Painting ‘Congress’ by Julie Mehretu. Photo of ‘Congress’ © Julie Mehretu. Photo by Tom Powel Imaging. Courtesy of the artist and Marian Goodman Gallery, New York.Design and layout by Paul Diddy.Photos in Los Angeles by Eric Welles-Nyström. Photos in London by Shawn Johnson.Recorded at Sargent Recorders, Los Angeles, California.Engineered by Sean Cook. London Symphony Orchestra; Written and arranged by Sam Shepherd, Conducted by Sally Herbert, Recorded at Air Studios, London. Engineered by Jeremy Murphy. Recorded by John Prestage. Assisted by Ashley Andrew-Jones and Gianluca Massimo. LSO lead by Carmine Lauri. Score preparation by Olli Cunningham and Colin Rae.Mixed by Sam Shepherd at EMS4, London. Assisted by Tim Pennells. Lacquer cut by Chris Bellman at Bernie Grundman Mastering.Executive Produced by Yale Evelev and Eric Welles-Nyström.Dedicated to the memory of Tom Relleen.

[synthcabbit]

arp solina string ensemble my beloved

[dylangriffin101]

The chords that we hear throughout the track are played on a Solina String Ensemble keyboard also known as ARP String Ensemble which is a fully polyphonic multi-orchestral synthesizer and this with the melodica is what give the track its reggae vibe. the string-like chords we hear throughout are also created using the ARP.

This is what the reggae inspired chords look like in Ableton’s piano roll.

[sneakydragon]

Sneaky Dragon Listening Party - Ep. 42

Hello, partygoers! Things get exciting this week and also very, very wrong.

On this episode, Mary and Dave record the Listening Party in the dark as a windstorm causes a power outage in good old rural Aldergrove. So, bring a flashlight and a blanket, and join the pair in the crepuscular rumpus room for some music fun!

Let’s peer into the gloom and listen to:

The Nerves – “Hanging of the Telephone” – DIY: Come Out and Play – American Power Pop I (1975-1978), 1993 – 8:55

Fire – “Father’s Name is Dad” –Decca single b/w “Treacle Toffee World”, 1968 – 29:57

Idina Menzel and Lea Michelle (Glee) – “Poker Face” – Glee: The Music, Volume 3 – Showstoppers, 2010 – 1:07:58

Camper Van Beethoven – “Take the Skinheads Bowling” – Telephone Free Landslide Victory, 1985 – 1:27:04

The Act – “The Remedies of Doctor Brohnicoy” – Columbia single “Just a Little Bit” b/w “The Remedies of Doctor Brohnicoy”, 1968 – 1:34:58

Jane Aire and the Belvederes – “Yankee Wheels” –Stiff records single b/w “Nasty Nice”, 1978 – 1:46:40

The Thrills – “Til the Tide Creeps In”- So Much for the City, 2003 – 2:06:43

Caroline Peyton – “Engram” – Mock Up, 2009 – 2:15:41

The Everly Brothers – “Talking to the Flowers” – Mono single version B-side to “Mary Jane”, 1967 – 2:24:29

Stephen Malkmus (and the Jicks) – “Mama” – Face the Truth, 2005 – 2:35:22

Gwen McCrae – ‘Rockin’ Chair” – Rockin’ Chair, 1975 – 2:40:24

Chilliwack – “Fly at Night” – Dreams, Dreams, Dreams, 1976 – 3:00:46

Also on the old Victrola:

Fire – “I’ll Tell You a Story” – The Magic Shoemaker, 1970 – 58:51

Felt – Jewel Sky” – Let the Snakes Crinkle Their Heads to Death, 1986 [Intermission Music] – 1:30:54

The Act – “Just a Little Bit” – b/w “The Remedies of Dr. Brohnicoy”, 1968 – 1:42:55

Department of Corections: A major correction this bi-week as Dave got hold of the completely wrong end of the Chilliwack stick. In a major case of “maybe don’t trust your faulty memory and look at the track listing, dum dum”, Dave assigned “Fly at Night” to the wrong Chilliwack album. It was not 1978’s Lights from the Valley, but 1976’s Dreams, Dreams, Dreams – a real comeback after 1975’s disappointing Rockerbox – that “Fly at Night” is on. As Dave mentioned during the show, Chilliwack at this point was Bill Henderson on vocals and guitar, Glenn Miller on bass and vocals, Ross Turney on drums, and new(-ish) member Howard Froese on guitar, keyboards and vocals. Additionally, both Henderson and Froese are credited with playing the Solina String Ensemble – a polyphonic synthesizer from the Netherlands that incorporated violin, viola, trumpet, horn, cello, and contrabass with a built in chorus effect. This was marketed as the ARP String Ensemble in the States – after the company that distribute it there. While making Dreams, Dreams, Dreams, all the members of Chilliwack were involved with Scientology (dumb hippies) and there is a thank you to L. Ron Hubbard on the sleeve of the original LP.

Not a correction, but a clarification: The Everly Brother’s version of “Talking to the Flowers” was the mono single mix – not the album mix, which puts some of the background vocals a little too high in the mix for our tastes.

Thanks for listening.

Here is Caroline Peyton at nineteen, performing an acoustic set live, and then, some years later, performing as Mabel in The Pirates of Penzance :

Chilliwack at the Winterland in 1977 performing “Fly at Night” with later full-time member Brian McLeod on keyboards (you can see he is playing the Solina or ARP String Ensemble):

Gwen McRae and her “Rockin’ Chair” in unfortunate collision of great music and unfortunate video effects:

https://media.blubrry.com/sneakydragon/p/content.blubrry.com/sneakydragon/Sneaky_Dragon_Listening_Party_42.mp3

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Sneaky Dragon Listening Party – Ep. 42 was originally published on Sneaky Dragon

[continuo-docs]

Boubi's Library – Vol. 107, internet release, Mahorka, January 17, 2017

In the 48mn epic “Woke Up To No Day And My Hands Were Finally Filled With Light”, French improviser, electronic music composer and Improvising Beings label boss Julien Palomo uses an array of analog synthesizers (ARP Solina String Ensemble, EMS Synthi E, microKorg & Mellotron) to build a heavily textured mass of gorgeous, silky electronic sounds, rich in harmonics and extraneous beats. During the first 1/2 hour, a handful of relentlessly enveloping, pulsating textures run in parallel, yet with enough variation and sudden surges to keep the listener on the edge of his seat. The pulsation is relentless, yet the keyboard playing is at times melodic, lyrical even – some synth parts actually sound like eerie human voices (the Mellotron, perhaps), others like bells (around 12:30). The pulsation stops around 34:00, and the rest of the track features solo parts from individual synthesizers, an opportunity to witness their respective textures as if under a microscope. This is Julien's first album-length project after his Scutigere CD on Entr'acte in 2016, though Julien is in fact constantly experimenting with synths – check out the I.B. Soundcloud page: https://soundcloud.com/improvising-beings

http://mahorka.org/release/182

[thekingofgear]

Hello! Amazing blog that you have going on here! Thanks! I wanted to ask if there are any songs in which Ed notably uses flanger or if he just turn it on when he feels like adding a bit of another modulation here and there... I haven't noticed anything personally... Have a nice day!

Hello there, I’m glad that you like the site!

Ed uses his MXR Flanger M-117R on Present Tense, both live and on the album recording. The reason that you may not have noticed is because rather than a cheesy “airplane” setting, Ed’s flanger is set for a resonant, metallic sound more similar to a steel drum. We aren’t aware of uses of the flanger on any other songs.

A picture of the final version of Ed’s pedalboard for the 2016 tour from Dan from theGigRig’s instagram. Ed’s MXR Flanger featured on both his ‘studio’ pedalboard, constructed in 2014, and on Ed’s 2016 ‘touring’ pedalboard, meaning that it was almost certainly used on the album recording of Present Tense. 

The flanger is most prominent on the album recording of Present Tense when Ed plays his outro riff at 4:39-4:58, panned to the left. Ed’s ‘steel drum’ flanger sound is first distinctly audible from 2:53-3:14, when the texture thins with the entrance of the string synthesizer. Interestingly, in addition to Ed’s metallic guitar sound we can also hear a longer resonant flange starting from 2:57-3:14. It’s hard to tell if this is just an artifact of Ed’s ‘steel drum’ setting, but I would not be at all surprised if Nigel contributed additional flanging to several instruments at once the old fashioned way.

This is particularly suspect in the case of the synth strings at 2:42-3:14 and 4:00-4:31. There is “movement” in the timbre of synth strings, suggesting some sort of chorus or flanger modulation was applied to them. String synths usually have built in chorus effects, and this is the case for the ARP Solina Ensemble and Korg Poly-Ensemble P PE-1000 previously used by Thom and Jonny, but the Crumar Orchestrator/Multiman-S which Jonny brought along for the 2016 tour does not feature such an effect. If the Crumar was used on the Present Tense for the synth strings, then it is likely that flanging was applied to them in some capacity.

Ed and Jonny playing together at Studios La Fabrique, during the recording of A Moon Shaped Pool.

It’s hard to say, but probably the first place on Present Tense where we hear Ed’s flanged electric guitar is at 1:45, when the texture suddenly thickens with the entrance of several guitars. The most prominent guitars at this point are the left-panned acoustic, Thom’s centre-panned acoustic, and Jonny’s centre-panned electric, though more are clearly present. Given the particularly bright timbre of the left-panned guitars, and given that Radiohead have used extensive layering of guitars in the past (see the paragraph on In Limbo), it seems likely that Ed’s guitar is present here as well.

In live performance, Ed uses his flanger on a single setting from when he switches from cabasa to guitar until the end of the song. You can hear this clearly in this video, from one of their 2016 Roundhouse performances. It’s worth noting that Ed enters right as Jonny drops out, with Jonny bending down to change the settings of his RE-20 from the tap tempo’d five sixteenth-notes necessary for his riff to a faster delay time more suited to his subsequent tremolo picking.

Ed’s MXR Flanger settings from the 2014 video of his ‘studio’ pedalboard. Note the high setting of the regen. knob. These are probably not the final settings used on the album, but give insight into Ed’s early thoughts on how to use it.

While the MXR Flanger has been around in a similar form for decades, it does possess features not found on all modern flanger pedals. The manual (delay time) and “regen.” (short for regeneration, also referred to as feedback or resonance) knobs of the MXR Flanger are what allow Ed to create resonant metallic sounds. A flanger with less features, such as the MXR micro flanger, EHX Electric Mistress, or TC Electronic Vortex Mini, would be unable to achieve such sounds. Delay Time and Feedback knobs are featured on most flangers, and some like the EHX Flanger Hoax and Chase Bliss Spectre offer many more, but it’s worth noting their importance for metallic timbres.

As someone who long associated flangers with some of the worst of rock music, it’s nice to hear the effect used in a subtle and effective ways, although that’s not imply that some bands haven’t used it to great effect. 

[noisetoys]

Eine weitere Sammlung analoger Klassiker - 12 Synthesizer Plugins von Electrostudio für umsonst ... plus 5 spezielle Freeware Lieblinge.

Ja ja, ok. Das Analog Pack des polnischen Entwicklers, dessen Namen ich nichtmal in Erfahrung bringen konnte - ich nenne ihn im folgenden einfach mal Electrostudio - ist alt. Verdammt alt. Genau genommen ist das letzte Update der Website von 2012. Alle Plugins sind in 32Bit und werden nicht mehr aktualisiert. Aber hey, die Teile klingen echt gut, machen Spaß, sehen super aus und sind absolut umsonst. Also “Hut ab” vor dem Entwickler hinter Electrostudio!

Warum komme ich jetzt 5 Jahre später mit einem Beitrag dazu? zum einen hatte ich hier vor kurzem etwas zu der Synth Sammlung von Arturia gepostet. Diese Sammlung ist nicht gerade billig und ich wollte mal sehen, was es so im Freeware Bereich gibt. Allerdings ist der Markt riesig und ich wollte wirklich nicht alle vorhandenen Freeware Plugins testen. Falls jemand interessiert ist an eine Übersicht wirklich guter Freeware Plugins, empfehle ich die Seiten des Bedroom Producer Blogs.

Aber ich habe mich an diese Sammlung erinnert und das passte so gut. Ich mag nahezu alle Plugins dieser Serie, sie emulieren ebenfalls alte Klassiker (und teilweise sogar richtig skurrile Teile) und tja, sie sind nunmal umsonst.

Insgesamt umfasst die Sammlung 10 Synthesizer, die im Analog Pack zusammengefasst sind und in einer Zip-Datei heruntergeladen werden können. dieser Download ist gerade mal knapp 29MB groß. Dann habe ich noch die beiden extra Synthesizer von Electrostudio dazu genommen, den Minimoog und den Moog Prodigy, somit umfasst die Electrostudio Sammlung 12 Instrumente, die kaum Platz auf der Festplatte beanspruchen.

Da in der Arturia V Collection auch Orgeln, ein Piano und zwei elektrische Pianos vorhanden sind, habe ich noch zusätzlich im Anschluß meine 5 Lieblingsinstrumente aus dem Freeware-Bereich aufgezählt. Ein Piano, eine Orgel, ein Wurlitzer und zwei 8Bit Spielereien.

Dies hier ist keine “Best of Freeware” Scheiße. Dazu gibt es schon genug Seiten und Diskussionen im Netz. Dies sind einfach Freeware Plugins, die mir persönlich gefallen und die ich für meine Projekte benutze. Teilweise weiß ich nichtmal wie die Originale dieser Emulationen klingen, und es ist mir auch egal. Ich mag genau diese Plugins. Weil ich vor ein paar Tagen die großartige V Collection vorgestellt habe, wollte ich so etwas ähnliches nun im Freeware Bereich machen, denn man kann auch Plugins benutzen, die gar nichts kosten und trotzdem gut klingen. Nochmal “Hut ab” an die Entwickler, die diese Software umsonst zur Verfügung stellen.

Davolisint

Athos Davoli hatte eine italienische Firma in den 60ern und 70ern, die Verstärker, Boxen und sonstiges Gitarrenzubehör gebaut und verkauft hat. Später kamen dann auch noch einige obskure Orgeln dazu. Dazu hat Davoli ungefähr sieben Keyboards und Synthesizer entworfen und gebaut. Teilweise existieren davon aber nur Prototypen. Der erste, aus dem Jahre 1972 - war der Davolisint.

1972 war eine Zeit, in der der Synthesizer-Boom noch nicht so wirklich begonnen hat. Es gab zwar schon den Arp 2600 und den Minimoog, aber die etwas günstigeren Modelle von Roland oder Yamaha kamen erst ungefähr ein Jahr später. Der Davolisint war der erste italienische Synthesizer und wahrscheinlich auch der erste europäische.

(Quelle: soundonsound.com)

Der Synthesizer funktioniert so ähnlich wie eine Transistororgel. Im Kern besitzt er zwei Oszillatoren, aber keine Envelopes oder LFOs, wie man es von anderen Synths so kennt. Man kann nicht mal eine Waveform für die Oszillatoren einstellen. Man hat nur sieben Schalter, die jeweils eine Oktave dazu schalten. Die Oszillatoren schwingen in einer rechteckähnlichen Form und man hat somit die Möglichkeiten 7 Oktaven dieser Rechteckwellen übereinander zu legen.

Ansonsten gibt es noch einige Regler in der Mitte, die die Tonhöhe der OSCs regeln und Vibrato dazu schalten können. Das muss reichen. Trotzdem macht es unheimlich Spaß mit dem spartanischen Synth herumzuspielen, denn Electrostudio hat mit dem DavoSynth ein nettes Ebenbild erschaffen. Außerdem wurde noch ein Chorus und Delay Effekt dazugepackt.

Arp Solina String Ensemble

Eine String Machine darf auch hier natürlich nicht fehlen. Electrostudio hat sich hier mehr oder weniger an die Solina von Arp gehalten.

(Quelle: synthpalace.com)

Die Solina war in einem wunderbaren Holzfunier erhältlich und kostete in den 70er Jahren ca. 2.500 Mark. Die eSLine von Electrostudio ist eine schöne Nachbildung der cheesy Streicherklänge und kostet rein gar nichts.

Moog Micromoog

(Quelle: http://retrosynthads.blogspot.de)

“Für 795 Dollar ist es ein großartiger Synthesizer für Anfänger”, so hieß es in einer Anzeige aus dem Jahre 1975. Der Micromoog war quasi der kleine Bruder des Minimoog für jedermann. Dieser Monosynth verfügte über einen Oszillator, einen Amp Envelope, einen Filter und einen LFO. Ein guter Synthesizer um sich mit den Grundlagen der Synthese vertraut zu machen.

Electrostudio hat ihren Micromoon noch eine Effektsektion spendiert. Außerdem kann man den Micromoon auch polyphon schalten. Es macht wirklich Spaß mit diesem einfachen Synth zu spielen.

Moog Minimoog

Der Vorzeigesynthesizer aus dem Hause Moog. Ich habe ja vor kurzem im Artikel übers Arturia V Collection schon einiges dazu geschrieben. Electrostudio hat den Minimoog liebevoll Model Mini getauft. Ansonsten wurde sich ziemlich genau am Original gehalten.

Moog Sonic Six

(Quelle: greatsynthesizers.com)

Anfang der 70er war keine allzu gute Zeit für die Firma Moog. Die Welle des Erfolges ebbte immer mehr ab, denn keiner wollte weiterhin mit den Ungetümen der Modular Reihe hantieren. Man wünschte sich kleinere, transportable Systeme. Aber Bob Moog wollte zunächst von all dem nichts hören, bis seine Firma das Aus drohte.

So entstand der Sonic Six, ein tragbares System, dass ebenfalls als Lehrsynthesizer konzipiert war. Mochte Moog anfangs den Gedanken an tragbaren Systemen überhaupt nicht, wurde der Sonic Six später sein Lieblingssynth, den er auf Präsentationstouren immer dabei hatte. Er wurde von 1972 bis 1979 gebaut. Nach dem Sonic Six wurde vermehrt an tragbaren Systemen gearbeitet und so entstand etwas später der berühmteste aller Monosynths, der Minmoog Model D.

Die Version von Electrostudio mit dem Namen Mono Sono SX 2 sieht etwas anders aus, zumindest farblich. Von den Einstellungsmöglichkeiten und dem technischen Aufbau wurde sich weitgehend am Original orientiert.

EKO ComputeRythm

Ich mag alte Drum Machines. Besonders wenn sie schön lofi klingen. Ich bin ein großer Fan der CR-78 und die EKO ComputeRhythm kannte ich bis vor kurzem gar nicht. Sie stammt aus Italien und wurde 1972 veröffentlicht.

Die ComputRhythm ist verdammt rar. Es soll wohl nur 20 Stück weltweit geben und vor kurzem hat jemand sein Sammlerstück für 15.000 Dollar verkauft. Jean-Michel Jarre hat sie wohl des öfteren für Aufnahmen eingesetzt und ansonsten gibt es nicht allzu viel Informationen im Netz.

Naja, zumindest hat Electrostudio diese Rarität nachgebaut, in einem VST Plugin namens Ocet Rhythmsynth. Ich habe mich sofort in die kleine Drum Machine verliebt.

Sie bieten 6 Spuren und dementsprechend auch 6 Instrumente, die sich über die Tasten C1 bis F1 der Miditastatur spielen lassen. D.h. man könnte einfach die schnuckeligen Samples benutzen und den Midi-Editor der DAW zum programmieren nehmen. Oder man fummelt mit dem 6 Spur Sequenzer der Ocet herum. Hier hat man nicht allzu viele Möglichkeiten, aber es macht Spaß damit einen Beat zu programmieren.

Rechts kann man dann noch in die Platine klicken und kann somit an jedem Drumsound so einiges verstellen: Tonhöhe, Tone Decay, Pitch Decay, dann gibt es noch einen Filter und Noise Generator. Außerdem besteht noch die Möglichkeit per Knopfdruck alle Werte zufällig zu verstellen und so alle möglichen Sounds pro Drum zu generieren. Leider lassen sich diese Parameter in der DAW nicht automatisieren :( Trotzdem, danke für diese nette Drum Machine!

Arp Odyssey

Logischerweise musste Arp auf die tragbaren Systeme, wie dem Minimoog von Moog antworten. Und so entstand dann der Odyssey 1972 (irgendwie wurden verdammt viele große Synth-Legenden 1972 gebaut). Der Odyssey ist ebenfalls eine Synth-Legende und bis heute der meistverkaufte Synthesizer von Arp.

(Quelle: vintagesynth.com)

Im Grunde ist der Odyssey eine festverdrahtete, kleine Version des Arp 2600, kompakter und günstiger. Zwei Oszillatoren, Filter, Envelopes … das übliche. Electrostudio hat seinem Odsay noch ein Echo spendiert. Man kann ihn, genau wie das Original, monophon oder duophon spielen.

Oberheim Two-Voice

Der Two-Voice war 1975 Oberheim’s Antwort auf die steigende Nachfrage nach polyphonen Synthesizern. Tom Oberheim schloß einfach zwei seiner SEMs zusammen, verbaute alles in einem kompakten Gehäuse mit Tastatur … fertig.

Natürlich ist diese Synth auch in der Sammlung von Electrostudio.

Korg Mini Pops 7

Oh ja, wieder eine Drum Machine ganz nach meinem Geschmack. Die Korg Mini Pops 7!

Die Mini Pops Serie von Korg enthielt so einige Drum Machines, die zwischen den späten 60ern und den späten 70ern gebaut wurden. Sie verfügten alle über feste Rhythmen, die man über Druckknöpfe abrufen konnte. Sie waren als Begleiter zum Üben oder für Alleinunterhalter gedacht aber ihr spezieller Sound landete dann auch auf vielen Pop Platten. Besonders Jean-Michel Jarre, der auch schon ein Fan der EKO ComputeRhythm war, setzte sie für einige Aufnahmen ein. Interessant war, dass man mehrere Rhythmen gleichzeitig abspielen konnte, indem man einfach mehrere der Knöpfe eindrückte. Das war zwar vom Hersteller nicht so gedacht, lieferte aber interessante Rhythmen.

Die Electrostudio Version ist ein schöner Nachbau, der den Sound der Bassdrum noch etwas fetter liefert. Man kann natürlich das Tempo einstellen und die Lautstärke. Sie bietet insgesamt 20 Rhythmen, weil alle Schalter doppelt belegt sind und auch hier kann man mehrere Rhythmen übereinander legen. Genau wie auch bei der Original Mini Pops 7 sind hier auch noch 3 Percussion Elemente (Tamborine, Guiro und Quijada) enthalten, die individuell mit in den jeweiligen Rhythmus gemixt werden können.

Über den kleinen “Open” Taster kann man auch hier das Gehäuse öffnen und ein paar kleine Änderungen am Sound der einzelnen Elemente vornehmen (Tone, Volume und Pan). Wenn man die Rhythmen nicht mag, lassen sich auch nur die Samples nutzen, denn per Midi-Keyboard sind diese ebenfalls spielbar. Das GUI macht wie bei den meisten der Electrostudio Plugins hier auch eine sehr gute Figur.

Roland Juno-6

Der Juno-6 war der erste der durchaus erfolgreichen Juno-Serie von Roland. Er erblickte 1982 das Licht der Welt und war ein 6-stimmiger, polyphoner Synthesizer. Sein Manko war, dass er nicht programmiert werden konnte. Deshalb schob Roland später schnell den Juno-60 nach.

(Quelle: vintagesynth.com)

Der Juno-6 war relativ einfach aufgebaut, aber für seinen Klang sehr beliebt. Er verfügte über eine Oszillator, einen Arpeggiator, Chorus und Delay. Die Electrostudio Version hat den zauberhaften Namen “Sixth Month June” und klingt vielleicht nicht ganz so wie das Original, aber dennoch gut einsetzbar.

Ein Mellotron!

Ich mag das Mellotron. Das Mellotron ist wohl der erste Sampler überhaupt und der berühmteste Einsatz war sicherlich 1967 von den Beatles “Strawberry Fields Forever”. Das Flöten-Intro wurde von Mr Lennon auf einem Mellotron gespielt.

Wie gesagt, ist das Mellotron der wahrscheinlich erste Sampler. Die Technik ist im Grunde total naiv. Ich glaube als 8-Jähriger habe ich selber schon darüber nachgedacht ein Keyboard zu bauen, dass pro Taste Sounds von einer Cassette abspielt, und ich habe vorher noch nie von einem Mellotron gehört. Naja, ich war 8 und hatte natürlich absolut keine Ahnung, wie man so etwas verwirklicht.

Ist ja auch egal, denn Harry Chamberlin wusste in den 50er Jahren des letzten Jahrhunderts schon, wie man so etwas anstellt. Die Firma Streetly Electronics übernahm später diese Idee und veröffentlichte 1963 das erste Mellotron, welches über 35 Tasten verfügte, die individuelle Tonbänder mit Sounds abspielten.

(Quelle: mellotron.com)

Noch heute gibt es die Firma, aber sie stellt keine Instrumente mehr her, sondern wartet und repariert nur noch die alten, beliebten Mellotrons.

Die Mellotrons waren schwer und störanfällig, weshalb sie selten den Weg auf eine Bühne fanden. Trotzdem waren sie beliebte Instrumente, besonders in den 70er Jahren. Später wurde ihre Sounds dann durch digitale Klänge ersetzt. Charakteristisch war ihr melancholischer Klang und durch die Abnutzung der Magnetbänder kam mit der Zeit auch das charakteristisches Leiern dazu.

Electrostudio hat eine nette und einfache Software-Version gebaut, die drei Sounds beinhaltet (Flöten, Streicher und einen Chor). Das sind eigentlich die wichtigsten und meistens eingesetzen Mellotron-Sounds und das TapeOTronic klingt richtig gut. Es gibt Standardeinstellungen, wie Attack und Release, Lautstärke und Tone, außerdem kann man die Stimmung noch verändern.

Wenn man das Gehäuse des Plugins aufklappt, sieht man die Bänder rotieren und wenn man rechts auf das Rad mit der Maus klickt, kann man es schneller oder langsamer drehen lassen. Diesen Effekt kann natürlich auch das Pitchwheel des Midi-Keyboards übernehmen. Alles in allem ein sehr schönes, einfaches Plugin, dass hier des öfteren mal zum Einsatz kommt.

Moog Prodigy

Ein weiterer Monophoner von Moog, der 1980 bis 1984 produziert wurde. insgesamt wurden ungefähr 11.000 Stück davon unter die Leute gebracht. Obwohl zu dem Zeitpunkt die große Zeit der monophonen Synthesizer vorbei schien, erreichte der Prodigy fast den gleichen Erfolg, wie der bekannteste Moog Synth, der Minimoog.

Aus diesem Grund hat Electrostudio auch dem Prodigy die Ehre erwiesen und mit dem Model Pro ein schönes Plugin programmiert. Das GUI sieht fantastisch aus es macht Spaß auf dem Synth zu spielen.

Fazit

Wie bereits eingangs erwähnt, ist diese Serie alt und wird nicht weiterentwickelt. Es gibt sie nur als 32Bit Plugins, was für einige Nutzer ein Problem sein könnte und sie sind nur für Windows verfügbar. Aber ich finde diese Sammlung bemerkenswert. Der polnische Entwickler hat viel Arbeit in die Entwicklung gesteckt und hatte eigentich vor, diese kommerziell zu vertreiben. Nach etlichen Streitereien und diversen Problemen hat er sie kurzerhand frei verfügbar gemacht.

Und auch wenn sie alt sind, finde ich trotzdem, dass man sie sehr gut einsetzen kann und sie ihren Platz in allen möglichen Aufnahmen finden können. Denn sie sind absolut kostenlos. Ich hatte bei der Installation erst ein paar Probleme. Man sollte die Plugins nicht in den Standardordner für VST-Plugins kopieren, weil sie schreibenden Zugriff auf diesen Ordner brauchen, um Sachen zu speichern. Die neueren Windows Versionen erlauben aber nicht so ohne weiteres den Zugriff auf Ordner innerhalb der “Programme” Struktur. Um irgendwelchen stressigen Einstellungen aus dem Weg zu gehen, würde ich empfehlen die Plugins innerhalb von “Dokumente” zu speichern oder in einem anderen Bereich der Benutzer-Ebene.

Da die Plugins in 32Bit geschrieben sind und die meisten Nutzer heutzutage 64Bit DAWs einsetzen, könnte es sein, dass man eine 32Bit Bridge benötigt, wie z.B. jBridge. Manche DAWs unterstützen aber auch von Haus aus 32Bit Plugins, wie z.B. Bitwig oder Renoise.

Also, herunterladen, installieren und ausprobieren. Macht Spaß, tut nicht weh und kostet nichts.

Zugabe, Zugabe …. !!!

Ich will an dieser Stelle nicht alle möglichen Freeware Plugins aufzählen, die mir besonders gut gefallen, dass würde wohl ewig dauern. Allerdings will ich noch fünf Plugins dazu nehmen, die ebenfalls umsonst sind und die Synthesizer Sammlung ganz gut abrunden. Angelehnt an die Arturia Sammlung fehlt hier auf jeden Fall ein Piano, eine Orgel und ein elektrisches Piano (auch wenn das keine Synthesizer im eigentlichen Sinn sind). Dazu noch ein paar 8Bit Spielereien aus meiner Kindheit :)

DirtBag

Eine Orgel mit viel Schmutz. Das GUI sieht etwas gewöhnungsbedürftig aus, aber es gibt viel zum Einstellen und Sound verbiegen. Man kann sogar Sounds aus ihr herauskitzeln, die nur noch ganz entfernt an eine Orgel erinnern.

DirtBag ist ebenfalls ein 32Bit Plugin, das von Istvan Kaldor stammt. Ich glaube das Plugin ist auch schon uralt, kann aber nicht genau sagen, wann die aktuelle Version veröffentlicht wurde. Ist ja auch egal, ich mag den Klang und das Plugin funktioniert.

City Piano

Dieses PIano ist im Download etwas größer, weil es eine Sample-Library beherbergt, die die einzelnen Nuancen des Pianos in etwas über 400MB Samples verpackt hat. Das GUI ist gräßlich, aber der Klang ist super.

Aber hey, es ist ein Piano. Da muss man nicht viel mit dem GUI herumspielen. Man kann zwar noch einiges einstellen, Attack, Decay, Sustain und Release, außerdem Volume und Pan … muss man aber gar nicht.

Das Plugin stammt von BigCat Instruments und ist natürlich ebenfalls kostenlos. Der Download dauert vielleicht einen Moment länger, weil halt sehr viele Samples vorhanden sind. Das aufgenommene Piano ist ein Baby Grand, welches ein wenig den Raum mit einfängt, in dem es recorded wurde. Ich mag den einfachen Klang. Es ist relativ lofi so wie es ist. Es erinnert mich ein wenig an die Beatles und den Klang der Abbey Road Studios, vielleicht gefällt es mir deshalb so gut. Einen guten Reverb-Effekt hinten dran .. super!

Big Cat Instruments hat so einiges an VSTs und Kontakt Libraries veröffentlicht, aber ich habe mir nicht wirklich alle durchgehört. Das City Piano gibt es übrigens auch als Kontakt Library. Ansonsten war mein Lieblingspiano immer das Gentleman Upright der Komplete Kontakt Libraries. Es ist natürlich immer ärgerlich, wenn man irgendwann mal Geld für Sachen ausgegeben hat und etwas später dann etwas entdeckt. dass nichts kostet und einem fast besser gefällt. Aber so ist es nunmal. Danke an BigCat Instruments.

MrTramp 2 - Wurlitzer Electric Piano

MrTramp 2 ist ein Physical Modeling Plugin, dass ein Wurlitzer 200a Electric Piano simuliert. Es ist klein, total einfach zu bedienen und klingt super. Es könnte vielleicht etwas mehr Biss haben, aber wenn man einen Overdrive Effekt dezent hinten anhängt ist alles ganz fantastisch. Einziger Nachteil ist das Tremolo, das klingt zwar gut, die Frequenz lässt sich aber nicht verändern. Also sollte man hier auch besser einen Tremolo Effekt der DAW benutzen.

Ein paar Sachen zum Einstellen gibt es auch: Velocity, Härte der Hämmer, Tremolo (hmmm… nur feste 6Hz Triangle), dann Tonhöhe und Lautstärke. Alles ganz selbsterklärend. Ich mag dies Wurlitzer gerne, Tremolo dahinter, dann etwas Distortion und ein schönes Reverb … perfekt!

Commodore C64

Kennt den noch jemand? Ich hatte den früher in meiner Kindheit. Da gab es noch keine Playstations oder XBoxen. geschweige denn PCs. Der C64 war wohl der berühmteste Heimcomputer der 80er Jahre. Auch wenn er überwiegend zum Spielen benutzt wurde, konnte man ihn auch in Basic programmieren.

Der C64 hatte einen ganz speziellen Soundchip, den SID, der auch in andere 8Bit Computer von Commodore verbaut wurde. Der Sound dieses Chips ist legendär und immer noch total angesagt. Ich mag diesen Sound und nutze das Basic64 VST Plugin dafür.

Es verfügt über 3 Oszilatoren und typische Synthesizer Einstellmöglichkeiten. Man kann dem Teil echt schräge Klänge entlocken.

Text To Speek

Wieder eine nette 8Bit Spielrei. Für den C64 gab es damals so eine Basic-Erweiterung namens SAM, welche geschriebene Worte in Sprachausgabe umwandelte. Das klang natürlich alles herrlich nach bescheuerten Robotern. Es gibt auch ein VST Plugin, dass diese Technik ganz hervorragend emuliert. Das VST Speek 3.

Man gibt seinen Text ein und die Roboterstimme gibt sie wieder. Natürlich kann man diese Phrasen dann auch mit der Midi-Tastatur spielen. Also, quasi wie ein textbasierter Sampler. Da fällt mir sofort wieder Radiohead ein.

Man hat noch so einiges an Einstellmöglichkeiten, um die Stimme etwas anzupassen. Das berühmte “Exterminate!” der Daleks bekommt man dann damit auch ganz gut hin :D

[jessicakmatt]

The 200 Best Free VST Plugins Ever

The 200 Best Free VST Plugins Ever: via LANDR Blog

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 are worth installing?

We scoured the internet for the absolute best of the best free VST plugins available.

Best Free Synth VSTs

Best Free Drum VSTs

Best Free Guitar VSTs

Best Free VST Effects

Best Free VST Utlities

How to use this guide

There are a staggering 200 free plugins listed on this page.

To make sense of it all, we divided them into categories: Synth VSTs, Drum VSTs, Guitar VSTs, VST Effects and Utility VSTs.

Use the table of contents to see the lists of VSTs by category.

Best Free Synth VSTs

2getheraudio Cheeze Machine

2getheraudio Cheeze Machine is a free VSTi inspired by vintage string synths like the ARP/Solina String Ensemble. It’s perfect for those phasey, vintage, lo-fi strings.

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Applied Acoustics Systems AAS Player

Applied Acoustics Systems AAS Player is a free player for AAS library instruments. It comes preloaded with some great sound banks to get you started.

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Ample Sound Guitar M LITE II

Ample Sound’s Guitar M LITE II is a realistic sounding acoustic guitar with impressive articulation and strumming options for a free plugin.

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Ample Sound Ample Bass P LITE II

Ample Bass P LITE II, is another great instrument from Ample Sound that brings the sound of a studio P-Bass to your DAW.

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Ample Sound Cloudrum

Ample Sound Cloudrum is a digital version of the extremely sought-after melodic handpans you might have heard on a moody film soundtrack.

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Audjoo Helix

Audjoo Helix is a full featured, crisp sounding subtractive synthesizer. It’s huge collection of waveshapes and the ability to use any of them in a “super saw” style makes it amazing for modern electronic sounds.

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Blamsoft VK-1

Blamsoft VK-1 is a digital emulation of the sought after Moog Voyager hardware synth. All the classic flavour of the original is present in the excellent sounding VK-1.

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Blaukraut Charlatan 2.0

Blaukraut Charlatan 2.0 is an uncomplicated, super fat sounding virtual analog synth. Its easy-to use interface makes it good for dialing up great sounds fast.

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Bruce Sutherland JuceOPLVSTi

Bruce Sutherland JuceOPLVSTi is a VST version of the Yamaha YMF262 FM synthesis chip used to create the soundtracks of classic video games like DOOM.

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Dead Duck Deducktion

Is a 32-voice subtractive synth with powerful options beneath its simple exterior. Its comprehensive LFO controls and modulation matrix are perfect for creating evolving soundscapes.

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Dexed

Dexed is a fantastic utilitarian FM synth engine that’s capable of loading any of the classic patches from Yamaha’s hardware FM synths like the DX7 and TX81Z.

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discoDSP OB-Xd

discoDSP OB-Xd brings the enormous sound of the Oberheim OB-X to your DAW. The OB-Xd convincingly recreates the legendary pads and leads of the original.

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DSK Dynamic Guitars

DSK Dynamic Guitar is another realistic guitar sample plugin with convincing articulations for strumming.

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DSK Saxophones

DSK Saxophones offers modes for both alto and soprano saxophone with onboard tone shaping options like ADSR and reverb.

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DSK The Grand

DSK The Grand sounds very convincing for a free plugin. A great option for moody and dramatic grand piano sounds.

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Extent of the Jam Digits 2

Extent of the Jam Digits 2 is a unique phase distortion synthesizer inspired by the Casio CZ series. Phase Distortion is a variant of FM synthesis that can produce some truly wild sounds.

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Full Bucket FB-3300

Full Bucket FB-3300 is an astounding VST reproduction of the rare Korg PS-3300 synthesizer from the late 70s.

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Full Bucket ModulAir

Full Bucket Modulair is a capable, fully modular synth plugin available generously for free.

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HY-Plugins HY-Mono

HY-Plugins HY-Mono is an easy-to-use, fat sounding free monosynth.

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Ichiro Toda Synth1

Ichiro Toda Synth1 is a well designed VST polysynth that models the Clavia Nord Lead 2 hardware.

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IK Multimedia Syntronik FREE

IK Multimedia Syntronik FREE comes packed with 50 presents and 38 effects from the enormous library of the powerful paid version. There’s a huge amount of classic synth tones to choose from.

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Keyzone Classic

Keyzone Classic gives you great sounding acoustic and electric pianos sounds in your DAW for free.

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LinPlug FreeAlpha 3

Linplug FreeAlpha 3 is based on the same powerful synth engine as the paid version. Its slimmed down feature set is easier to use and sounds great.

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Matt Tytel Helm

Matt Tytel’s Helm is an open-source VST synth. That means you’re free to install it anywhere on anything and tinker with the source code. Pretty cool!

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ML PG8X

ML PG8X is a free emulation of the great sounding Roland JX-8P. Get all the classic sounds of this affordable vintage synth in your DAW.

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Muon Tau Bassline

The Muon Tau Bassline is modelled after the Roland TB-303. This small but powerful VST synth gives you that sweet sweet 303 bass we all know and love.

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NUSofting Sinnah

NUSofting Sinnah is a unique VST synth based on a simple oscillator that can create complex waveforms. It’s modulation and effects routing options are extremely extensive.

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Ohm Force SymptOhm PE

Ohm Force SymptOhm PE is the free version (“Performer’s Edition”) of Symptohm:Melohman. It contains all the presets of the paid version with a slimmed down control scheme.

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One Small Clue Grace

One Small Clue Grace is a handy and lightweight VST sampler. Everyone needs a sampler!

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Plogue Alter/Ego

Plogue Alter/Ego is a realtime voice synthesizer capable of creating incredibly interesting vocal sounds. It’s “voice banks” have colourful personalities brought to life with art and design.

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Plogue Sforzando

Plogue Sforzando is a simple standalone player for the non-proprietary SoundFont format of sampled instruments.

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Seaweed Audio Fathom Mono

Fathom is a modular VST synth that excels at crafting original waveforms with advanced modulation. The mono version of Fathom is available completely free.

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Soca Labs PAPU

Soca Labs PAPU emulates the sound hardware of the original Nintendo Gameboy for all your chiptune needs.

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Sound Magic Piano One

Sound Magic Piano One uses a hybrid modelling technique to deliver the sound of the workhorse Yamaha C7 grand piano.

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Spitfire Audio LABS

Spitfire Audio LABS packs a huge amount of extremely creative sounds into a user-friendly interface. With unique libraries from modulated pianos to windswept strings to creative percussion, try LABS if you’re looking for something new.

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Steinberg Model E

Steinberg Model E is a useful 3 oscillator bass station capable of pumping out great bass tones.

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Synister SYNISTER

Synister is a great VST synth designed with practicality and ease of use in mind. If you’re new to synthesis this might be a great place to start!

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TAL-NoiseMaker

TAL-NoiseMaker is the new and improved version of the legacy Elek7ro plugin with many more options and effects. It’s great to use and sounds fantastic.

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Tunefish 4

Tunefish 4 is an extremely lightweight synth that can produce professional quality sounds. It generates its wavetables using a form of additive synthesis.

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u-he Triple Cheese

U-He Triple Cheese generates it’s sound with comb filters rather than oscillators, wavetables or FM. This unique synth produces sounds that are a little on the cheesy side, but usable and inspiring nonetheless.

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u-he Tyrell N6

U-he Tyrell N6 is a compact, effective virtual analog subtractive synth that sounds just right. Its classic architecture feels familiar and its preset library has a diverse array of sounds.

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u-he Zebralette

Another freeware winner from German manufacturer u-he, Zebralette is the free version of the powerful Zebra. Zebralette features one of the same incredible sounding oscillators.

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VCV rack

VCV is an impressive free virtual Eurorack modular system. With emulations of many of the most popular modules supported, VCV rack is a creative powerhouse for synth tweakers.

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Vember Audio Surge

Vember Audio Surge is an incredibly powerful open-source synthesizer. Surge features multiple “scenes” that can be layered for expressive timbres. Like all open-source software the source code is available for you to explore.

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Versilian Studios Chamber Orchestra 2 Community Edition

Versilian Studios Chamber Orchestra 2 Community Edition is a sampled chamber orchestra that throws typical orchestral sampling traditions to the wind. VSCO 2 focuses on the unique sound of real people playing real instruments in real spaces.

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Wavosaur VST Speek

Wavosaur VST Speek models the old school speech synthesis engines of retro hardware like the Amiga 500, Commodore 64 and Atari ST for those classic robot voice tones.

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Best Free Drum VSTs

Alan Vista Chau Gongs

Alan Vista’s unique sampled VST instruments run the gamut of orchestral percussion from traditional hand crashes to this cinematic collection of Chinese gongs.

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Alan Vista Cymbalistic

Alan Vista Cymbalistic continues in the same vein with a realistic set of common drum kit cymbals with articulations and variable release times.

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Alan Vista Royotoms

Royotoms is a unique sampled instrument of pitched “rototoms” tuned to the notes used in the intro to Pink Floyd’s “Time.”

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AudioSpillage MiniSpillage

AudioSpillage MiniSpillage is a compact drum synthesizer capable of creating big drum sounds using subtractive synthesis and physical modeling.

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BeatSkillz Beat Factory Drums

Beat Skillz Beat Factory Drums is a simple VST packed with essential sounds from classic drum machines like the the TR-808 and 909.

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Decomposer Sitala

Decomposer Sitala is a free drum plugin that focuses on simplicity and ease-of-use. With only six controls, Sitala let’s you dial in the sounds you need fast.

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Dub Turbo DrumTroop

Dub Turbo DrumTroop is a big sounding drum VST with 16 individual outputs and 20 free kits. Each pad has options for volume, pan, attack and release.

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Melda MDrummer Small

Melda MDrummer Small is the lite version of Melda’s comprehensive MDrummer plugin. Mdrummer Small features the same excellent drum machine and virtual drummer capabilities with a more utilitarian feature set.

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Mix Project T.Rex 606

Mix Project T.REX 606 is a compact rompler modelled after the iconic Roland TR-606 drum machine. It’s interface is super simple to get you started with TR-606 sounds right away.

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MT Power Drumkit 2

MT Power Drumkit 2 is a reastlc sounding acoustic drum kit plugin with sounds that can be used in all genres.

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Real Drum Samples Line of Legends

Real Drum Samples Line of Legends is a single great sounding hip-hop drum kit in an unassuming package.

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Sample Science Vintage Drum Elements

Sample Science Vintage Drum Elements gives you the authentic sounds of the old school Yamaha RX5 drum machine for all your lofi vintage drum needs.

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Sean Pandy Drums Multi

Sean Pandy’s Drums Multi is a quick and dirty way to get heavy drum samples onto your tracks. It’s great for metal or aggressive genres.

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Elektronic Sound Lab SL Drums 3

Elektronic Sound Lab SL Drums 3 is drum rompler vst with 75 available drum kits and assignable outputs.

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Steven Slate Drums SSD5 Free

Steven Slate Drums SSD5 Free is the freeware edition of Steven Slate Drums flagship SSD5 plugin. Everything about the popular drum tool is there, with a single great kit.

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Studio Linked Drum Pro

Studio Linked Drum Pro is a virtual drum machine that comes with 20 kits and built-in effects to get you started creating great drum sounds right away.

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Teragon Kick Maker

Teragon Kick Maker is a bass drum synth dedicated to sculpting unique and massive kick sounds.

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SimpleRecorder DjinnDrum

SimpleRecorder DjinnDrum is a no-nonsense plugin version of the legendary Linndrum drum machine.

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Best Free Guitar VSTs

IK Multimedia Amplitube Custom Shop

IK Multimedia Amplitube Custom Shop contains the several of the paid versions’s basic modules for free. Get your hands on the sounds of this classic amp sim.

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Black Rooster Cypress TT-15

Black Rooster Cypress TT-15 is an impressive freeware emulation of the popular Orange Tiny Terror amp head.

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Ignite Amps Emissary

Ignite Amps Emissary is a software version of Ignite Amps flagship gain machine. Emissary brings bone crushing distortion to your DAW with style.

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Ignite Amps NadIR

Ignite Amps NadIR is a handy IR loader plugin for using speaker cabinet impulse response when recording an amp direct.

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Ignite Amps ProF.E.T.

Ignite Amps Pro.F.E.T is a plugin version of a popular high gain stompbox that’s a great option from getting heavy distortion into your tracks.

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Ignite Amps SHB-1

Ignite Amps SHB-1 is a plugin version of a custom “extreme bass head” built by Ignite Amps. Try it if you’re looking for aggressive metal bass tones.

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LePou LeCab 2.0

LePou LeCab 2.0 is another fantastic free cab IR loader that lets you stack up to six virtual cabs at once.

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LePou Amp Suite

LePou Amp Suite is a collection of virtual amps that can cover a diverse range of guitar tones from vintage to modern.

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Mercuriall Chorus WS-1

Mercuriall Chorus WS-1 is a stompbox style chorus VST that can bring the classic shimmer of analog chorus to your DAW sessions.

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Mercuriall Greed Smasher

Mercuriall Greed Smasher is a digital model of the Mesa/Boogie Grid Smasher overdrive pedal. It’s perfect for pushing a hot amp plugin into aggressive overdrive.

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Mercuriall Tubes Creamer 808

Mercuriall Tubes Creamer 808 is a faithful adaptation of the Ibanez TS808 Tubescreamer in plugin form.

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Native Instruments Guitar Rig Player

Native Instruments Guitar Rig Player comes bundled with NI’s free plugin suite. This stripped down edition still packs a ton of functionality and the great tones Guitar Rig is known for.

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Nick Crow 8505

Nick Crow 8505 is a plugin version of the popular Peavey 6505 amp. Another fantastic option for virtual heavy tones.

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Plugin Alliance  bx_rockrack V3 Player

Brainworx/Plugin Alliance entry into the guitar amp simulation scene is a fantastic option with 8 well emulated amps to choose from. The free V3 Player gives you a sample of some of the presets from the paid version.

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Blue Cat’s Free Amp

Blue Cat’s Free Amp offers three distinct amp models inspired by legendary tones. You can even load your own IRs to take advantage of your favourite cab/mic models.

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Voxengo Boogex

Voxengo Boogex is a guitar amp and speaker cabinet simulator with a versatile sound for realtime guitar processing. Get anything from jazzy cleans to heavy crunch at almost zero latency.

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Shattered Glass Audio Ace Amp

Shattered Glass Audio Ace Amp is a faithful recreation of the classic 1950’s low-wattage tweed amplifier used on thousands of records. It includes emulation of common mods to the 5 watt tweed circuit and IR based speaker modelling.

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Best Free VSTs Effects

Acon Digital Multiply

Acon Digital Multiply is an expressive digital chorus that includes a phase randomizing filter on each voice. The result is an incredibly natural chorus tone.

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Acustica Tan

Acustica Tan is a VST compressor based on Acustica’s unique and comprehensive modelling technology. Tan has a fat VCA compression sound and additional control for modulating the shape of the attack curve.

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Adam Monroe Tremolo

Adam Monroe Tremolo is a simple but effective tremolo with stereo panning and wet/dry mixer built in.

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ADHD Audio Tools Levelling Tool

ADHD Audio Tools Levelling Tool is an LA-2A style optical levelling amplifier with a warm analog sound. It sounds great on vocals or other compression duties.

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Alex Hilton A1 Trigger Gate

Alex Hilton A1 Trigger Gate is a plugin for creating rhythmic gating effects. It’s comprehensive options make it perfect for creating patterned stuttering.

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Aegean Music Doppler Dome

Aegean Music Doppler Dome is a stereo effect based on its namesake, the Doppler effect. Expect a creative, flexible and fun auto-panner, spatializer, pitch shifter and modulator all in one.

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Auburn Couture Free

Auburn Couture Free is a free transient shaper plugin for level independent dynamics processing. Transient shaping can be a great alternative to compression.

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Auburn Graillon Free

Auburn Graillon Free is a versatile pitch tracking and correction plugin with the power to transpose or robitify vocals.

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Audio Damage Fuzz Plus 3

Audio Damage Fuzz Plus 3 is an authentic model of a vintage fuzz pedal with tone-shaping filter and self-feedback.

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Audio Damage Rough Rider 2

Audio Damage Rough Rider 2 is a nice warm compressor that’s great for adding pump to rhythmic material.

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Beatskillz MAX1

Beatskillz MAX1 is an “intelligent” automatic compressor with program dependent attack and release times. Try MAX1 if you’re looking for an extremely easy to use compressor.

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Bee-Happy 550

Bee-Happy 550 is a freeware API-style console EQ. It’s a great plugin to get you started with API style EQ.

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Flux BitterSweet v3

Flux BitterSweet v3 is a freeware transient shaper with a simple control scheme and great sound.

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Black Rooster VHL-3C

Black Rooster VHL-3C is a faithful emulation of the low and high filters of a renowned vintage EQ. These smooth, gentle, analog style filters are great for taming excess high and low energy with style.

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Blue Cat’s Chorus

Blue Cat’s Chorus is a capable chorus that can go from a light shimmer to sound mangling modulation.

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Blue Cat’s Flanger

Blue Cat’s Flanger is a vintage BBD style flanger for those 70s and 80s jet-plane-taking-off sounds. Its stereo spread slider allows it to get truly wide and immersive.

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Blue Cat’s Phaser

Blue Cat’s Phaser is an analog style phaser with impressive digital capabilities. With up to 32 possible phaser stages Blue Cat’s Phaser can go from subtle vintage throb to futuristic whoosh.

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Blue Cat’s Triple EQ

Blue Cat’s Triple EQ is a simple three band, semi-parametric EQ that can be controlled with a single mouse click. Triple EQ works like a single shapeable filter for your DAW.

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Bob Perry Gate

Bob Perry Gate is a smooth, great sounding gate plugin with three distinct algorithms and sidechaining.

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Cable Guys Pancake 2

Cable Guys Pancake 2 is a versatile auto-panner plugin that can sync to your DAW clock, MIDI or modulation curves that you draw in yourself.

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Creative Intent Temper

Creative Intent Temper is a saturation plugin that creates unique digital distortion effects using a rich saturation stage and a unique phase distortion effect.

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E-phonic Tape Delay

E-phonic Tape Delay is a free delay plugin that emulates the warm and warbly sound of tape delay.

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Eugene Yakshin Ribs

Eugene Yakshin Ribs is a unique granular effect that stores incoming audio in its buffer and processes it as granular micro samples

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Fine Cut Bodies La Petite Excite

Fine Cut Bodies La Petite Excite is an exciter effect that can add energy to the high and low extremes of your tracks.

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FXpansion Bloom

FXpansion Bloom is a creative delay effect with three switchable delay modes, lush diffusion reverb, frequency shifting and extensive modulation.

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FXpansion DCAM Dynamics

FXpansion DCAM Dynamics is a suite of four high quality circuit-modelled dynamics processors. From VCA-style bus compression to level-independant transient shaping.

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FXpansion Etch

FXpansion Etch is a dual filter with four switchable circuit modes, saturation and a powerful modulation matrix for stunning filter effects.

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FXpansion Maul

FXpansion Maul is a multiband distortion and saturation suite that allows you to mangle audio on three separate frequency bands.

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Glitchmachines Hysteresis

Glitchmachines Hysteresis a free glitch delay for creating robotic artifacts and “musical malfunctions.” It can create everything from reverse delays to raw granulation.  

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Glitchmachines Fracture

Glitchmachines Fracture is another free glitchy processor for introducing stutters and other nonlinearities into your audio. Hit the randomize button to add a layer of unpredictability to your glitch-outs.

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HOFA SYSTEM Basic

HOFA SYSTEM Basic is a suite of plugins with limited functionality to get you started with the offerings from HOFA. Simplified versions of some of their best plugins are included.  

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Hotto Spring Reverb

Hotto Spring Reverb is a free physically modelled spring reverb for your DAW.

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Ignite Amps PTeq-X

Ignite Amps PTeq-X is fantastic freeware emulation of legendary Pultec EQP-1A tube EQ. It’s warm sound and gentle curves are great for broad tonal sculpting.

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iZotope Vinyl

iZotope Vinyl is an instant lo-fi generator that can take your tracks back in time to the sound of the earliest forms of recording media. Very cool!

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iZotope Vocal Doubler

iZotope Vocal Doubler can create a natural double tracked vocal sound with human-like variation and controllable stereo separation.

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Klanghelm DC1A

Klanghelm DC1A is an analog modelled compressor with two simple controls and a warm, vintage sound. The little brother of the acclaimed DC8C.

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Klanghelm IVGI

Klanghelm IVGI is an excellent analog saturation plugin that can go from subtle harmonic enhancement to heavy colouration. One of the best freeware saturators available!

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Klanghelm MJUC Jr.

Klanghelm MJUC Jr. is a another two-knob wonder modelled on classic variable-mu tube compression.

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Native Instruments Komplete Start

Native Instruments Komplete Start is an impressive free bundle of plugins with a huge library of VST synths, effects and sampled instruments.  

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lkjb Luftikus

lkjb Luftikus is an analog EQ modelled on the popular Maag EQ4 and featuring the unique 20 and 40 kHz “air bands” for boosting frequencies above the audible range.

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LVC Audio ClipShifter

LVC Audio ClipShifter is a waveshaping plugin that functions like clipping-style limiter. From maximizing levels to creating all kinds of distortion, ClipShifter is a unique and useful tool.

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Melda MAutopan

Melda MAutopan is a classic autopanner with adjustable shape, automatic DAW sync and more.

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Melda MAutoPitch

Melda MAutoPitch is a simple automatic pitch correction plugin for vocals or monophonic instruments. MAutoPitch can also create formant shifting and robotic voice effects.

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Melda MBandPass

Melda MBandPass is a filter plugin with high and low pass filters capable of extreme slopes. Using it’s two modulators it can be follow a simple LFO, react to input levels, MIDI notes or incoming pitches.

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Melda MBitFun

Melda MBitFun is a unique distortion tool that works by converting the audio to a limited resolution and applying unique processing to each bit.

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Melda MComb

Melda MComb is a powerful multi-comb filter for shaping sound. Using it’s two modulators it can be follow a simple LFO, react to input levels, MIDI notes or incoming pitches.

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Melda MCompressor

Melda MCompressor is a versatile compressor with an adjustable compression shape.  

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Melda MConvolutionEZ

Melda MConvolutionEZ is an impressively easy to use convolution reverb for modelling realistic spaces.

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MDSP Smart Elecontronix Livecut Beat Chopper

MDSP Smart Elecontronix Livecut Beat Chopper a live beat-slicer and sample chopper for manipulating chunks of audio in the style of early jungle or drum and bass.

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Melda MEqualizer

Melda MEqualizer is a powerful 6-band equalizer with 7 different filter types, built-in tube saturation and for simulating a vintage tone.

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Melda MFlanger

Melda MFlanger is an analog style flanger with tube-style saturation and top quality sound.

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Melda MFreqShifter

Melda MFreqShifter is an interesting frequency shifter plugin that doesn’t preserve harmonic relationships, allowing it to do everything from mild stereo effects to extreme processing.

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Metric Halo MH Thump

Metric Halo MH Thump is a subharmonic synthesiser plugin for adding extra low end to your sources with a unique program dependent detector.

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Melda MPhaser

Melda MPhaser is an advanced phaser effect with adjustable oscillator shape, onboard saturation and up to 100 filters.

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Melda MRing Modulator

Melda MRing Modulator is an easy-to-use ring modulator with a simple interface for creating interesting ring modulated textures.

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Melda MSaturator

Melda MSaturator is a smooth, tube-like saturation device with natural and pleasing sound.

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Melda MTremolo

Melda MTremolo can cover all your amplitude modulation needs with its editable waveform, adjustable shape and DAW synchronization.

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Melda MVibrato

Melda MVibrato is easy to dial in and sounds for great for everything from subtle warble to seasick lurch.

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Melda MWaveFolder

Melda MWaveFolder is an analog-inspired distortion with unique character that can completely mangle your audio at extreme settings.

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Melda MWaveShaper

Melda MWaveShaper takes traditional wave-shaping to a new level by letting you construct your own shape instead of using predefined patterns.

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PechenegFX Tremolo

PechenegFX Pecheneg Tremolo is a simple but effective tremolo with just enough controls to get you started with great trem sounds right away.

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Plugin Alliance Brainworx bx_cleansweep

Plugin Alliance Brainworx bx_cleansweep gives you high-end analog low and high pass filters for free. These incredible sounding filters are the perfect tools for cleaning up issues at the extreme ends of your mix.

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Plugin Alliance Brainworx bx_subfilter

Plugin Alliance Brainworx bx_subfilter is a handy tool for dealing with low frequency sources like bass and kick drum. It’s simple controls make it easy to sculpt low-end punchiness and filtering.

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Plugin Alliance Elysia Niveau Filter

Plugin Alliance Elysia Niveau Filter is an awesome sounding tilt-style EQ for balancing your frequencies smoothly and transparently.

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Plugin Alliance SPL Free Ranger

Plugin Alliance SPL Free Ranger is an analog-modelled graphic EQ with boost/cut points at the most important frequencies for musical EQing.

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Puremagnetik Driftmaker

Puremagnetik Driftmaker is a delay disintegration device with exceptional dimension and character, perfect for when you’re looking to invoke something extra from your track.

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Shattered Glass Audio SGA1566

Shattered Glass Audio SGA1566 is a digital emulation of a classic single channel all-tube mic preamplifier. SGA1566 is perfect for analog colouration and distortion.

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Shattered Glass Code Red Free

Shattered Glass Code Red 3 accurately emulates the legendary EMI REDD console channel used by the Beatles at Abbey Road.

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Smartelectronix Ambience

Smartelectronix Ambience was one of the first quality free reverb plugins on the scene and it continues to be a great option for ambient algorithmic reverb.

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Softube Saturation Knob

Softube Saturation knob is an incredibly simple one-knob plugin for adding analog output stage warmth and colouration.

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Flux Stereo Tool v3

Flux Stereo Tool v3 is a precision tool for monitoring and controlling the stereo information of a signal. Use it to analyze and correct stereo issues on stereo channels or your entire mix.

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T-RackS 5 Custom Shop

T-RackS 5 Custom Shop is a great way to get started with some of the best presets from IK Multimedia’s respected T-Racks platform.

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TAL Chorus LX

TAL Chorus LX is an emulation of the unique chorus circuit found on the Roland Juno-60 synthesizer.

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TAL Filter II

TAL Filter II is a versatile filter plugin with many different types of oversampled filters available. It can be synced to the host tempo to create all kinds of rhythmic effects.

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TAL Reverb 2

TAL Reverb 2 is a super diffuse and lush reverb effect that’s ideal for ambient reverb tones.

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TAL Reverb 4

TAL Reverb 4 is a high quality plate reverb with a vintage 80s character and the signature TAL diffusion.

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TAL Vocoder

TAL Vocoder is a vintage vocoder emulation with 11 bands that emulates the sound of vocoders from the early 80s.

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TDR Kotelnikov

TDR Kotelnikov is a high quality and musical sounding dynamics processor worthy of professional applications. This unique processor doesn’t emulate existing processor, it’s its own thing!

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TDR Nova

TDR Nova is an insanely high quality dynamic equalizer available for free. TDR Nova can handle parametric EQ, dynamic EQ, multiband compression and more—it’s a must have!

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TDR Proximity

TDR Proximity allows you to simulate changing the distance of a microphone to the source. Ever wished you could dial in a bit more proximity effect? That’s exactly what TDR Proximity is for!

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TDR Slick EQ

TDR Slick EQ is another highly musical audio tool from TDR. This 3 band EQ is designed for useability and tone with 4 fantastic sounding subtle saturation options at the output stage. Another classic free plugin.

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Thomas Mundt Loudmax

Thomas Mundt Loudmax is a freeware brickwall lookahead limiter designed to retain the source material’s original character as much as possible.

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Tritik Krush

Tritik Krush is a freeware bit crusher and downsampler with analog modeled resonant filters and syncable modulation options for all your creative bit crushing needs.

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U-he Protoverb

U-he Protoverb is a natural sounding room simulator plugin that builds up resonances to model the body of air in a room.

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Valhalla FreqEcho

Valhalla FreqEcho is a simple but flexible delay plugin capable of creating some truly otherworldly sounds using only modulation and pitch shifting.

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Vladg Molot Compressor

Vladg Molot Compressor is an analog style compressor plugin that doesn’t shy away from obvious colouration and distortion. Molot is great option when clean just won’t do.

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Voxengo Tempo Delay

Voxengo Tempo Delay is a stereo delay plugin with deep DAW synchronization for creating rhythmic delays and unique panning, filter and tremolo effects.

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Voxengo Overtone GEQ

Voxengo Overtone GEQ is a 7-band harmonic graphic EQ with tube-style character that’s great for processing buses or entire mixes.

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Voxengo Old Skool Reverb

Voxengo Old Skool Reverb is a plate style algorithmic reverb that uses a tried and true stereo reverb algorithm that sits well in a mix.

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Voxengo Tube Amp

Voxengo Tube Amp is a simple tube style distortion that emulates the triode tubes generally found in tube mic preamps.

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George Yohng W1 Limiter

George Yohng W1 Limiter is a clone of the popular Waves L1 limiter that performs just as well as the original. W1 is a great choice for general limiter tasks.

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Wave Arts Tube Saturator Vintage

Wave Arts Tube Saturator Vintage is a free reissue of the original Tube Saturator plugin that used circuit simulation to model a tube preamp. The new version sounds just as good and is much easier on your CPU.

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Xenakios PaulXStretch

Xenakios PaulXStretch is the innovative time stretching plugin best known for its use in the “slowed down 800%” viral videos. Turn everything into whalesong!

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Xfer 8BitShaper

Xfer 8BitShaper is a bit reduction and waveshaping plugin that’s great for creatively destroying anything you run into it.

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Xfer DeltaModulator

Xfer DeltaModulator is a unique bitcrusher plugin that uses delta modulation in its downsampling process to create a sound similar to the Nintendo NES’s sampling channel.

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Xfer Dimension Expander

Xfer Dimension Expander is a four voice chorus with extended delay times and two out of phase voices based on a chorus/spatial expander device from the 80s.

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Xfer OTT

Xfer OTT is a free version of the aggressive multiband upwards/downwards compression technique favoured by dubstep and EDM producers.

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Best Free VST Utilities

Algae Software Tune it!

Algae Software Tune it! Is a powerful tuning plugin that can be used to tune instruments or monitor pitch during practice or performance.

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Voxengo AnSpec

Voxengo Anspec is an analog style 1/3-Oct spectrum analyzer for simple visual feedback with familiar analog metering.

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Blue Cat’s FreqAnalyst

Blue Cat’s FreqAnalyst is a free spectrum analyzer for monitoring the spectral content of your audio in real time.

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Voxengo SPAN

Voxengo SPAN is an FFT spectrum analyzer with stereo correlation, K level, peak and RMS metering built in.

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Voxengo Latency Delay

Voxengo Latency Delay is a simple tool to compensate for the delay introduced by plugins that don’t report their latency accurately to the host.

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Melda MAnalyzer

Melda MAnalyzer is an advanced spectral analyzer and sonogram generator for creating detailed visual representations of your audio.

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Melda MChannelMatrix

Melda MChannelMatrix is a matrix routing plugin for reassigning multiple channels on the fly via its sidechain inputs.

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Voxengo MSED

Voxengo MSED is a mid-Side encoder and decoder utility for splitting or combining stereo signals between L/R and M/S configurations and performing basic M/S operations.

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Melda MLoudnessAnalyzer

Melda MLoudnessAnalyzer is a super accurate analysis tool for evaluating loudness.

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Melda MNoiseGenerator

Melda MNoiseGenerator is a simple pink/white noise generator for testing, analysis or adding to audio signals.

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Melda MNotepad

Melda MNotepad is a VST text editor for your DAW. Need to take notes or write down lyrics? Do it directly from your session.

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Melda MOscilloscope

Melda MOscilloscope is a classic waveform visualizer with pitch detection.

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Melda MTuner

Melda MTuner is a simple audio frequency analysis tool designed for tuning guitars and other instruments.

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Voxengo Correlometer

Voxengo Correlometer is a multi-band correlation meter for detecting phase issues and mono compatibility.

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Melda MUtility

Melda MUtility bundles a number of important utility tools into one plugin in. It can adjust gain, panning and delay, asses peak and RMS loudness and block DC.

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Melda MStereoScope

Melda MStereoScope is a stereo field analyzer plugin for getting detailed info about your stereo spread.

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Blue Cat’s Gain Suite

Blue Cat’s Gain Suite is a handful of helpful gain tools in a single plugin package. From decoding M/S signals to inverting phase and swapping channels, Blue Cat’s Gain Suite can do it all.

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Plugin Alliance Brainworx Bx_solo

Plugin Alliance Brainworx Bx_solo is another great utility tool for dealing with L/R and M/S stereo signals. Try it to get started with mid/side techniques!

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Puremagnetik Expanse

Puremagnetik Expanse is versatile texture generator. Perfect for adding body or background to your mix. Kick back and blanket yourself beneath a soft beautiful drone.

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Melda MAGC

Melda MAGC is a simple tool that matches loudness of the input signal and sidechain. MAGC can help you evaluate loudness in your mix and signal chains.

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Melda MFreeformPhase

Melda MFreeformPhase is a phase adjustment utility that allows you to change the phase relationships of individual frequencies in complex mixing situations.

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Teragon ChaosChimp

Teragon ChaosChimp is something completely different. This one doesn’t do anything to your sound. It simply tries to crash your system however it can. Why would you possibly want this? To steel yourself against the inevitability of failure. That’s right dear reader—to prepare you for the worst. How will you handle a complete system failure in a live situation or high pressure session? Teragon ChaosChimp will test your rig—and your composure!

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The post The 200 Best Free VST Plugins Ever appeared first on LANDR Blog.

from LANDR Blog https://blog.landr.com/best-free-vst-plugins/ via https://www.youtube.com/user/corporatethief/playlists from Steve Hart https://stevehartcom.tumblr.com/post/183876281864

[softrls-blog]

Arturia Solina V2.3.1.1788

We’re keeping the love alive with Solina V, our physical model of the classic Arp/Eminent Solina string machine. Before polyphonic synthesizers, there were the string machines. The Solina, made originally by Eminent and rebranded for Arp, defined a class of sounds that are still as in demand today as ever. The Solina was probably heard on more albums in the 1970's and 80s than any other single keyboard. Like fresh Oxygen We began by modeling the original Solina MK1 from Eminent making sure that the Violin, viola, cello, horn and trumpet sounds were as rich and warm as the original. The renowned ENSEMBLE effect was carefully modeled and is a thing of beauty that cannot be found in any of the sample-based string machines. Strings and things Solina V is perfect for that string wash in your Nu Disco tracks or as a phase shifted pad in your old school electronic music track. Soaring beyond the past Besides recreating the original features of the Solina, we took a step further and expanded the sonic palette beyond anything the original designers could have imagined. Additional features like the Vox Humana and Resonators from the 1978 Bob Moog polysynth, original paraphonic and new polyphonic modes of operation, a 24dB per octave filter on the bass section, an LFO, an arpeggiator, and more all add up to creating the biggest and baddest string machine ever. Main Features: All of the original parameters of the ARP/Eminent Solina string ensemble Vox Humana sound modeled after the original 1978 Bob Moog's Polysynth Classic Paraphonic operation as well as selectable Polyphonic mode 1978 Bob Moog’s polysynth resonator section on Upper Section 24dB per octave resonant filter on Bass Section Arpeggiator on Bass Section LFO for vibrato, tremolo and filter modulation Aftertouch and velocity level controls Solina MK1 and MK2 ensemble modes 3-mode stereo chorus Stereo dual phaser Analog delay Digital sync delay Convolution reverb with 24 modeled reverbs 150 presets Whats New: New Features KeyLab MK2 Integration Clicking on the preset browser "Clear All" button now scrolls back the result list to its top Improvements Reworked preset leveling and consistency Effects default parameter values improvements Effects parameters are now reset when switching effects types Bugfixes User MIDI configuration is now properly recalled when loaded from an external file Fixed an issue where you had to click twice on the empty MIDI configuration to properly select it Default MIDI configuration is now properly working No more white flash when resizing our instruments inside macOS applications in AU Various Komplete Kontrol / Maschine improvement No more crash when a "Song Select" message is received No more cracks and glitches appearing when modifying effects dry/wet parameters User preset saving feature is now working properly No more duplicated presets Live 10 doesn't crash anymore when browsing preset from AU version Resizing the plugin window don't open the export bank popup for some users anymore No more crash when switching instruments on a track in FL Studio on macOS https://rapidgator.net/file/2bdb86d3e65b06a6a8bae74e28e35947/Arturia.Solina.V2.v2.3.1.1788.CE_softrls.com.rar.html https://dailyuploads.net/7er9wmhwmj5w Read the full article

[thetapelessworld]

NI EXCLUSIVE: 50% OFF ARTURIA V COLLECTION 5 till May 31st

NI EXCLUSIVE: 50% OFF ARTURIA V COLLECTION 5 till May 31st

ABOUT V COLLECTION AND NKS

Arturia V Collection 5 is an all-star collection of 17 painstakingly modeled classic synths and keyboards. Each instrument reproduces the feel and character of the original hardware – enhanced and updated for contemporary music production. What’s more, these instruments are fully NKS-ready, and come alive on KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboards and MASCHINE – just load and start playing.

ARP 2600 V The original can be heard on countless hit songs and as the voice of R2D2. This version captures the distinctive colors – bright, fat, and enhanced.

B-3 V – NEW The king of electronic organs, and a staple of jazz, gospel, hard rock and reggae. This faithful homage includes a rotary speaker, plus updates like drawbar modulation.

CS-80 V A unique synth, accurately and lovingly modeled: Colorful and huge in both sound and appearance, and intuitive enough to deliver great sounds quickly.

Farfisa V – NEW The Farfisa organ helped drive countless 60s hits. Arturia have added user-definable waveforms, DAW sync for tremolo/repeat, more envelope control, and effects.

Jup-8 V Simple to program and a feast for the ears, this synth updates the original with a modern edge, including 32-voice polyphony, and new modulations and effects features.

Matrix-12 V The most desired synth of its time, the Matrix-12 has a massive number of programming options and an unsurpassed range of sounds.

Mini V Soaring leads. Clangorous bells. THE bass. This award-winning synth reaches new heights with massive polyphony, formant filters, and modulation routings.

Modular V From ethereal to aggressive, stadium-shaking bass to crystal bells, sweet leads to hostile aliens, the sonic capabilities of this analog giant are unrivaled.

Piano V – NEW Nine world-class pianos, from concert grands to unconventional designs. Recreated using award-winning modeling technology, and supremely playable.

Prophet V Combines the Prophet 5 with the later Prophet VS. Fat subtractive synthesis. Digital-style wavetable synthesis. And the powerful hybrid, with both synth engines stacked.

SEM V Faithfully reproducing the warm tone of the original, the SEM V is also polyphonic, with a full array of innovative sonic features including a sub-oscillator and portamento.

Solina V Few instruments are as quickly recognized as the Solina String machine. The Solina V accurately recreates every detail, including the lush ensemble effect.

Stage-73 V – NEW A Stage 73 and Suitcase 73 modeled right down to the tines, pickups, and circuitry. Also includes a tube amp model and classic effects for the full experience.

Synclavier V – NEW Created with original designer Cameron Jones, this epic instrument faithfully recreates and improves on the elite digital synthesizer that provided the soundtrack to the 80s.

Vox Continental V This instrument models the nuances of an iconic organ, including the Jennings J70 engine, full drawbars, rotary cabinet, and much more.

Wurli V Physical modeling captures the distinctive tone – mellow at lower velocities, but gritty and tough when played harder. Plus tone-shaping options, effects, and speaker selections.

Analog Lab 2 Included ‘Command central’ for V Collection 5. Quickly sort, filter and combine 5,000+ sounds from all included instruments, and find the exact sound you need fast.*

Sale Price

Full version: $499.00 $249.50   Update: $249.00 $99.00

https://www.native-instruments.com/en/specials/komplete/nks-special-arturia/pricing-v-collection-5/

HOW IT WORKS

Native Instruments and Arturia are working together to make this exclusive deal possible. Purchase V Collection 5 here – you’ll receive an email from NI with your download link, serial number, and an unlock code. Install and run the ‘Arturia Software Center’ to manage the V Collection installation – step-by-step instructions will guide you through the process.

Please note: If you don’t have one already, you’ll be asked to create an Arturia account in order to complete the activation and unlock process.

NKS AND TOTAL INTEGRATION

The V Collection 5 instruments are compatible with Native Kontrol Standard® (NKS). This means you can browse and load instruments and presets straight from your S-Series or MASCHINE hardware. Each instrument loads automatically mapped, so you can start playing and tweaking sounds immediately.*

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

This special offer is valid from May 22-31, 2017, at the NI Online Shop exclusively. Offer applies on download version only. Savings described in this newsletter are calculated on the basis of suggested retail prices (MSRP). Please note that according to our terms and conditions, e-vouchers cannot be used in conjunction with special offers.

* Please note: Arturia Analog Lab is not configured for NKS.

https://www.native-instruments.com/en/specials/komplete/nks-special-arturia/pricing-v-collection-5/

[zanecarney]

🎹🎛📻 G E A R F O R S A L E 📻🎛🎹 I'm selling these three pieces to make space for some new gear 🤓 1) 1974 ARP Solina String Ensemble Vintage Keyboard (Local Pickup in LA Only): $1300 2) Altec 9470A 2 Channel Preamp (Gruning Audioworks Racked): $1100 3) Manley TNT 2 Channel Preamp (Tube + Solid State): $1600 DM me if ya wanna grab one/all and happy gear hunting to my fellow gear addicts 🔥 #arp #solina #stringensemble #altec #9470a #preamp #manley #tnt #twochannelpreamp #gearhead #gearslutz #gearporn #yesthoseareactuallytermsforpeoplewholovevintagegear #sadiknow #vintagegear #vintageinstruments #piano #keyboard #micpre (at Los Angeles, California)

[sneakydragon]

Sneaky Dragon Listening Party - Ep. 42

Hello, partygoers! Things get exciting this week and also very, very wrong.

On this episode, Mary and Dave record the Listening Party in the dark as a windstorm causes a power outage in good old rural Aldergrove. So, bring a flashlight and a blanket, and join the pair in the crepuscular rumpus room for some music fun!

Let’s peer into the gloom and listen to:

The Nerves – “Hanging of the Telephone” – DIY: Come Out and Play – American Power Pop I (1975-1978), 1993 – 8:55

Fire – “Father’s Name is Dad” –Decca single b/w “Treacle Toffee World”, 1968 – 29:57

Idina Menzel and Lea Michelle (Glee) – “Poker Face” – Glee: The Music, Volume 3 – Showstoppers, 2010 – 1:07:58

Camper Van Beethoven – “Take the Skinheads Bowling” – Telephone Free Landslide Victory, 1985 – 1:27:04

The Act – “The Remedies of Doctor Brohnicoy” – Columbia single “Just a Little Bit” b/w “The Remedies of Doctor Brohnicoy”, 1968 – 1:34:58

Jane Aire and the Belvederes – “Yankee Wheels” –Stiff records single b/w “Nasty Nice”, 1978 – 1:46:40

The Thrills – “Til the Tide Creeps In”- So Much for the City, 2003 – 2:06:43

Caroline Peyton – “Engram” – Mock Up, 2009 – 2:15:41

The Everly Brothers – “Talking to the Flowers” – Mono single version B-side to “Mary Jane”, 1967 – 2:24:29

Stephen Malkmus (and the Jicks) – “Mama” – Face the Truth, 2005 – 2:35:22

Gwen McCrae – ‘Rockin’ Chair” – Rockin’ Chair, 1975 – 2:40:24

Chilliwack – “Fly at Night” – Dreams, Dreams, Dreams, 1976 – 3:00:46

Also on the old Victrola:

Fire – “I’ll Tell You a Story” – The Magic Shoemaker, 1970 – 58:51

Felt – Jewel Sky” – Let the Snakes Crinkle Their Heads to Death, 1986 [Intermission Music] – 1:30:54

The Act – “Just a Little Bit” – b/w “The Remedies of Dr. Brohnicoy”, 1968 – 1:42:55

Department of Corections: A major correction this bi-week as Dave got hold of the completely wrong end of the Chilliwack stick. In a major case of “maybe don’t trust your faulty memory and look at the track listing, dum dum”, Dave assigned “Fly at Night” to the wrong Chilliwack album. It was not 1978’s Lights from the Valley, but 1976’s Dreams, Dreams, Dreams – a real comeback after 1975’s disappointing Rockerbox – that “Fly at Night” is on. As Dave mentioned during the show, Chilliwack at this point was Bill Henderson on vocals and guitar, Glenn Miller on bass and vocals, Ross Turney on drums, and new(-ish) member Howard Froese on guitar, keyboards and vocals. Additionally, both Henderson and Froese are credited with playing the Solina String Ensemble – a polyphonic synthesizer from the Netherlands that incorporated violin, viola, trumpet, horn, cello, and contrabass with a built in chorus effect. This was marketed as the ARP String Ensemble in the States – after the company that distribute it there. While making Dreams, Dreams, Dreams, all the members of Chilliwack were involved with Scientology (dumb hippies) and there is a thank you to L. Ron Hubbard on the sleeve of the original LP.

Not a correction, but a clarification: The Everly Brother’s version of “Talking to the Flowers” was the mono single mix – not the album mix, which puts some of the background vocals a little too high in the mix for our tastes.

Thanks for listening.

Here is Caroline Peyton at nineteen, performing an acoustic set live, and then, some years later, performing as Mabel in The Pirates of Penzance :

Chilliwack at the Winterland in 1977 performing “Fly at Night” with later full-time member Brian McLeod on keyboards (you can see he is playing the Solina or ARP String Ensemble):

Gwen McRae and her “Rockin’ Chair” in unfortunate collision of great music and unfortunate video effects:

https://media.blubrry.com/sneakydragon/p/content.blubrry.com/sneakydragon/Sneaky_Dragon_Listening_Party_42a.mp3

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Sneaky Dragon Listening Party – Ep. 42 was originally published on Sneaky Dragon

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The X Best Free VST Plugins Ever Made

The X Best Free VST Plugins Ever Made: via LANDR Blog

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 are worth installing?

We scoured the internet for the absolute best of the best free VST plugins available in 2019.

Best Free Synth VSTs

Best Free Drum VSTs

Best Free Guitar VSTs

Best Free VST Effects

Best Free VST Utilities

How to use this guide

There are a staggering 250 free plugins listed on this page.

To make sense of it all, we divided them into categories: Synth VSTs, Drum VSTs, Guitar VSTs, VST Effects and Utility VSTs.

Each category is listed alphabetically, but I’ll give a special shoutout to some of the absolute must-have software on this list.

Best Free Synth VSTs

2getheraudio Cheeze Machine

2getheraudio Cheeze Machine is a free VSTi inspired by vintage string synths like the ARP/Solina String Ensemble. It’s perfect for those phasey, vintage, lo-fi strings.

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Applied Acoustics Systems AAS Player

Applied Acoustics Systems AAS Player is a free player for AAS library instruments. It comes preloaded with some great sound banks to get you started.

Ample Sound Guitar M LITE II

Ample Sound’s Guitar M LITE II is a great realistic sounding acoustic guitar with impressive articulation and strumming options for a free plugin.

Ample Sound Ample Bass P LITE II

Ample Bass P LITE II, is another great realistic instrument from Ample Sound that brings the sound of a studio P-Bass to your DAW.

Ample Sound Cloudrum

Ample Sound Cloudrum is a digital version of the extremely sought-after melodic handpans you might have heard on a moody film soundtrack.

Audjoo Helix

Audjoo Helix is a full featured, super crisp sounding subtractive synthesizer. It’s huge collection of waveshapes and ability to use any of them in a “super saw” style makes it amazing for modern electronic sounds.

Blamsoft VK-1

Blamsoft VK-1 is a digital emulation of the sought after Moog Voyager hardware synth. All the classic flavour of the original is present in the excellent sounding VK-1.

Blaukraut Charlatan 2.0

Is a uncomplicated, super fat sounding virtual analog synth. Its easy-to use interface makes it great for dialing up great sounds fast.

Bruce Sutherland JuceOPLVSTi

Bruce Sutherland JuceOPLVSTi is a VST version of the Yamaha YMF262 FM synthesis chip used to create the soundtracks of classic video games like DOOM.

Dead Duck Deducktion

Is a 32-voice subtractive synth with powerful options beneath its simply exterior. It’s comprehensive LFO controls and modulation matrix are great for creating evolving soundscapes.

Dexed

Dexed is a fantastic utilitarian FM synth engine that’s capable of loading any of the classic patches from Yamaha’s hardware FM synths like the DX7 and TX81Z.

discoDSP OB-Xd

discoDSP OB-Xd brings the enormous sound of the Oberheim OB-X to your DAW. The OB-Xd convincingly recreates legendary pads and leads of the original.

DSK Dynamic Guitars

DSK Dynamic Guitar is another realistic guitar sample plugin with convincing articulations for strumming.

DSK Saxophones

DSK Saxophones offers modes for both alto and soprano saxophone with onboard tone shaping options like ADSR.

DSK The Grand

DSK The Grand sounds completely convincing for a free plugin. A great option for moody and dramatic grand piano sounds.

Extent of the Jam Digits 2

Extent of the Jam Digits 2 is a unique phase distortion synthesizer inspired by the Casio CZ series. Phase Distortion is a variant of FM synthesis that can produce some truly wild sounds.

Full Bucket FB-3300

Full Bucket FB-3300 is an astounding reproduction of the rare Korg PS-3300 synthesizer from the late 70s.

Full Bucket ModulAir

Full Bucket Modulair is a capable fully modular synth plugin available generously for free.

HY-Plugins HY-Mono

HY-Plugins HY-Mono is an easy-to-use fat sounding free monosynth.

Ichiro Toda Synth1

Ichiro Toda Synth1 is a well designed VST polysynth that models the Clavia Nord Lead 2.

IK Multimedia Syntronik FREE

IK Multimedia Syntronik FREE comes packed with 50 presents and 38 effects from the enormous library of the powerful paid version. There’s a huge amount of classic synth tones to choose from.

Keyzone Classic

Keyzone Classic gives you great sounding acoustic and electric pianos sounds in your DAW for free.

The post The X Best Free VST Plugins Ever Made appeared first on LANDR Blog.

from LANDR Blog https://blog.landr.com/the-x-best-free-vst-plugins-ever-made/ via https://www.youtube.com/user/corporatethief/playlists from Steve Hart https://stevehartcom.tumblr.com/post/183566465964