ReaPlugs VST FX Suite Want to use some of the comprehensive FX plug-ins that REAPER provides, but stuck in another host? Haven't made the switch yet? Fear not - you can download ReaPlugs, a package of FX that includes many of the plug-ins that come with REAPER, for free! It's easy to find a million free VSTi's and blogs, but hard to sort through. Here's a few that are proving helpful to me: DrumTroop - nice for trap music Upright piano (versillian studio) everything by DSK Orion sound module - some bread and butter stuff Tone 2 firebird - synth Helm - synth Synth1 - some nice synth sounds Lord of the springs - modeled sounds Redtronse - mellotron.
Last Updated on January 1, 2021.
While most Digital Audio Workstations, or DAWs, provide youwith loads of great stock plugins, compressors included, you might be lookingfor some new ones that have a slightly different sound to them.
Or maybe the compressors you already have lack certainsettings which you would like to use…
Well, I've put together a list of the best free compression plugins available which should definitely add some flavor to your mixes.
The 5 Best free Compressor Plugins are;
Note: I also wrote a post about the best compressor plugins in general, not just free ones. So, make sure to check it out as well!
Let's get straight to it…
MJUC Jr. by Klanghelm (Windows, Mac)
With just two basic controls, 'Compression' and 'Make Up', the MJUC JR. makes controlling the dynamics of the song extremely easy.
Also, there's the three-position timing switch which not only controls the attack and release of the unit, but also the slew rate of the transformers and the timing of the other parts of the circuitry that are directly influencing the generated harmonics (saturation).
As far as simplicity goes, the MJUC Jr. just can't be beat, and it's one of my favorite compression plugins of all time.
Learn more about the MJUC Jr. here.
DC1A by Klanghelm
The DC1A is one of my favorite compressor plugins as well, just slightly behind the MJUC Jr. and the TDR Kotelnikov.
It is, essentially, a stripped-down version of the DC8C, which is a premium compressor by Klanghelm, but with fewer knobs.
What makes this such an appealing compressor is that it only features two controls; Input and Output.
The input controls the level of the incoming signal and the output lets you control the resulting volume.
Basically, all you have to do is increase the input and let the algorithm automatically apply the compression, and then adjust the level via the Output knob.
Additionally, thanks to the 'DEEP' control, the DC1A is excellent at dealing with bass-heavy audio, since it activates a high-pass filter.
It also comes with some extra features, like parallel compression and dual-mono processing, which lets you compress the left and right channels independently.
Just like all other Klanghelm plugins, you can click on the 'OUT' or 'GR' buttons under the metering section to view the compression that is being applied as well as the output level.
If you are a beginner and need an easy-to-use compressor for your tracks, don't hesitate to try out the DC1A.
Learn more about the DC1A by Klanghelm here.
Interested in free Synth vst plugins? Here's an entire post on that topic.
MCompressor by MeldaProduction (Windows, Mac)
The MCompressor isn't just a simple one-dimensional compression plugin; it allows you to fully customize the shape of the graph which gives you the opportunity to be really creative with how the signal gets processed.
With such a high number of controls and features, it ends up being one of the more versatile compressors out there, but this means that the learning curve will be a bit steeper as well.
What makes this such an appealing compressor is that it only features two controls; Input and Output.
The input controls the level of the incoming signal and the output lets you control the resulting volume.
Basically, all you have to do is increase the input and let the algorithm automatically apply the compression, and then adjust the level via the Output knob.
Additionally, thanks to the 'DEEP' control, the DC1A is excellent at dealing with bass-heavy audio, since it activates a high-pass filter.
It also comes with some extra features, like parallel compression and dual-mono processing, which lets you compress the left and right channels independently.
Just like all other Klanghelm plugins, you can click on the 'OUT' or 'GR' buttons under the metering section to view the compression that is being applied as well as the output level.
If you are a beginner and need an easy-to-use compressor for your tracks, don't hesitate to try out the DC1A.
Learn more about the DC1A by Klanghelm here.
Interested in free Synth vst plugins? Here's an entire post on that topic.
MCompressor by MeldaProduction (Windows, Mac)
The MCompressor isn't just a simple one-dimensional compression plugin; it allows you to fully customize the shape of the graph which gives you the opportunity to be really creative with how the signal gets processed.
With such a high number of controls and features, it ends up being one of the more versatile compressors out there, but this means that the learning curve will be a bit steeper as well.
The MCompressor comes with the smart randomization feature which will instantly generate new settings, as well as all the typical compression controls, such as; Input, Output, Attack, Release, RMS, Threshold, Ratio, Knee Size and the different Knee Modes (Hard, Linear, and Soft).
Additionally, it allows for side-chain compression, which is very rare to see in free plugins!
It can handle mono, stereo and even 8-channel surround processing which really comes in handy when mixing for films or movies.
Because of all the features it has to offer, it certainly is one of those plugins that really can do everything.
Learn more about the M-Compressor here.
Looking for free guitar VST plugins? Here are the 15 best ones.
ReaComp by Cockos (Windows Only)
Cockos, the creators of the Reaper DAW, have a couple free plugins that you can download to use with any DAW you want, and they are truly fantastic, with the only downside being that they don't look as good as some other plugins on this list.
Of course, they do have their own free compression plugin called ReaComp.
This is a very simple to use yet powerful plugin and I believe that it should be in every producer's toolbox.
Now, it does have a steeper learning curve than all the previous plugins on this list, but it's also one of the best ones if you take the time to learn it properly.
It features a Feedback compression mode, Sidechain filters and sidechain inputs, variable RMS size, and more.
Learn more about the ReaComp here.
If you're looking for the best free VST plugins in the world, I have a list of 225 of them.
Interested in free reverb VST plugins? Here's a post about the 15 best ones.
Molot by Vladg/sound (Windows, Mac)
On their website they call Molot the 'compressor with character', and this is because it adds a lot of coloring to the sound, which most of you might not want that much since it will change the way the source originally sounded.
Not only that, but it's pretty complicated to use properly!
Basically, if you're looking for a simple and transparent sounding compression plugin, Molot is not for you.
So, why is it on this list?
It's a compressor that works really well and that is designed to not just be used as a compression tool, but rather to also give the sound a distinct character that would otherwise be hard to get.
So, if you want a compressor that adds a lot of character to your track and that allows for deep customization, like parallel compression, definitely give it a try.
Learn more about Molot Here.
Looking for free Drum VST plugins? Here are the best ones.
Rough Rider 3 by Audio Damage (Windows, Mac)
Rough Rider is a modern compressor with a bit of 'vintage' style bite to it and a uniquely warm sound.
This compression plugin was designed to mainly be used onthe tracks that can add some punch to your music;
E.g. The rhythmic tracks, such as drums, but also bass, synth bass, guitar, and more.
In addition to the typical compressor controls, Rough Rider 3 also features a Mix controls for Parallel compression as well as a High-Pass Filter.
To be honest, I liked it for the same reason I like the MJUC Jr., and that reason in SIMPLICITY!
https://coollup550.weebly.com/bovada-no-deposit-bonus-2018.html. I don't want to have to deal with loads of knobs and parameters, since this usually results in option anxiety and wasting too much time.
I want my compressors simple, to the point, and effective, and Rough Rider definitely fits the bill.
Learn more about Rough Rider 3 here.
OTT By Xfer Records (Windows, Mac)
Xfer Records OTT is a free multiband upwards/downwards compressor used by many dubstep and electro producers.
It's a very popular plugin in dubstep and electro productions for the simple fact that it has an aggressive-style of compression.
This means that if you need a compressor that really glues everything together, and I mean 'duct tape around your head' type of gluing, then give it a shot!
Now, I wouldn't recommend it for bus compression, since you want to go gentle there, but if the song needs that sort of compression, then by all means!
Additionally, it's fairly simple to use and it's also pretty light on the CPU.
You can download it here.
Looking for free Arpeggiator VST plugins? Here are the best ones.
DCAM FreeComp By FXpansion (Windows, Mac)
DCAM is modelled after a classic console bus compressor design and is intended to be used to 'glue' mixes and subgroups together while enhancing punch and definition.
It can also tame peaks and create pumping compression on individual tracks; however, it's one of those compressors that can certainly be used on the master bus to give your song that last punch and sonic glue it needs.
Note: You must register with their site and get avalid serial to use it, even though it's free… yes, really!
It's still worth doing it, so try it out!
As far as the actual use of the plugin goes, it's very simple and straightforward since it only features a couple controls; Gain in and Gain out, Ratio, Attach, Threshold and Make up, and that's about it!
Learn more about the DCAM FreeComp here.
Looking for free EQ VST plugins? Here are the best ones.
AC-1 by Audiocation Audio Akademie (Windows Only)
Note: The Website is in German, but the download link is easy to find; However, you can always use the browser's built-in translation tool to navigate the site in the language you desire.
The AC-1 compressor plugin allows for both subtle compression and an extremely hard and punchy one.
It comes with all the regular compression settings like; attack, release, ratio, knee, etc. which makes it really simple and easy to use; Again, no unnecessary controls to slow you down.
Just try it out for yourself and tell me what you think.
You can download it here.
SAFE Compressor By Semantic Audio (Windows, Mac, Linux)
The whole point behind the SAFE plugins by Semantic Audio is to provide the user with an easier way to control the plugins by using semantic terms such as 'warm, bright', etc. to make the whole process more intuitive.
You just type the word in and it adjusts the settings automatically.
This can be useful, especially for beginners, but once you know how to dial in compression like most producers do, you won't really have a need to use the semantic terms.
But I think that it can be a good plugin for beginners to start figuring out how to use compression in their mixes when they still don't know what each specific parameter does.
On their website you will not only find a compression plugin, but also an overdrive, EQ and reverb, and they all work in a similar way! So, make sure to try those out as well.
Give it a try!
You can download it here.
FR COMP 87 By eaReckon (Windows, Mac)
If you're looking for a VERY simple compression plugin, thenlook no further…
FRComp 87 only has two knobs; Threshold and Make up, just like the MJUC Jr.
It also allows you to choose between fast, medium and slowattack and release.
And the last feature it provides is a Limiter!
And that's it, believe it or not!
If you like easy to use plugins and you don't want to have to deal with twelve different parameters that need to be adjusted, etc., then the FRComp 87, just like the MJUC Jr. Best editing video for pc. and the DC1A, are definitely for you.
You can download it here.
Looking for free Delay VSTs? Here's a post I wrote about the best ones.
Tokyo Dawn Labs TDR Kotelnikov
Contrary to most compressor plugins in existence, this one doesn't try to emulate any existing hardware compressors, quite the opposite in fact.
Named in honor of Vladimir Kotelnikov, who was a pioneer of digital sampling techniques, this plugin is purely digital and uses complex algorithms to provide the best control possible over the dynamics with minimum added color.
You have access to two different versions of the plugin; the free one and the 'Gentlemen's Edition', which costs $44.
What sets Kotelnikov apart from most other compressors is its 'Frequency Dependent Ratio', which allows you to set a different compression ratio depending on the frequency (not available in the free version).
A similar feature is the 'Low Freq Relax' that allows you to configure a high-pass filter for the side chain, which makes the compressor react less to those lower frequencies such as kick and bass, and this one can be found both on the free and premium versions of the plugin.
In other words, when using the 'Low Freq Relax' feature, you are effectively lowering the threshold on the lower frequencies.
Another feature are the Ying and Yang controls, which add harmonics to the lower and higher frequencies respectively.
Lastly, when processing stereo channels, you also have the option to only process the Sum or Difference channels, otherwise known as the Middle or Side, and you can even use two instances of this plugin to compress the Mid and Side independently.
This plugin clearly does a hell of a lot of things, but it does them right, and for only $44, or even free, I honestly don't find a reason not to recommend it.
Find out more here: TDR Kotelnikov.
Conclusion
Any of these plugins should make a great addition to your arsenal, just remember that some of the ones on this list are extremely simple while some others are actually quite complicated to use and packed with features.
Depending on your needs you should choose one or the other;
If you're a beginner, either go with the DC1A or the MJUC Jr. by Klanghelm, otherwise the TDR Kotelnikov and the MCompressor are easy to recommend as well!
Still, since they are all free, I'd recommend you to try outas many as possible.
I hope this was useful!
Have a great day!
The marimba is a pitched keyboard percussion instrument(similar to a xylophone) that resides in symphonies, percussion ensembles, orchestras, commercial music, and more.
Finding an excellent-sounding marimba VST isn't a walk in the park — many sound cheap. Not to worry, as I have discovered five exceptional libraries that I will share with you today.
Table of Contents
- Things to Consider When Looking for Marimba VSTs
1) Vital Series: Mallets (Paid)
I've already mentioned Mallets in a previous post (xylophone VSTs), but it happens to fit perfectly with marimba VSTs.
Vital Series: Mallets is an excellent pitched-percussion plugin from Big Fish Audio, the creators of Electri6ity, Mojo 2, and Apollo: Cinematic Guitars.
The plugin includes patches for marimba, xylophone, bells, chimes, vibraphone, and others.
The sample quality is incredible — when I listened back to my studio monitors, I felt like I was listening to real performers.
Vital Series: Mallets comes with multiple mallet types allowing for more flexibility and better dynamic emulation.
Mallet types included are as follows:
- Soft
- Medium Soft
- Medium Hard
- Hard
- Rods
- Bow
Vital Series: Mallets is available at Plugin Boutique.
2) Marimbaphonic (Free)
For all the composers and producers looking for a free option — rejoice. Marimbaphone is a surprisingly decent-sounding free marimba plugin.
The instrument contains 122 samples from the University of Iowa Electronic Music Studios public domain library.
The most disappointing flaw in this marimba VST is the limiting two velocity layers(hey, what can you expect, it's free?).
Cleanmyphone 3 6 4 download free. Here are Marimbaphone's main features:
- 122 mono 24-bit samples
- Two velocity layers
- Release time control
- Amplitude dynamic range control
- Basic reverb
3) Short Marimba VST/AU from Flintpope (Free)
Here's an interesting (and free) marimba VST from a website called Flintpope.net.
The Short Marimba is a cool-sounding free instrument that won't stand up to significant orchestral recordings but does work for many styles like pop and hip hop.
Have a listen below:
4) Soniccouture Grand Marimba (Paid)
I have a hard time distinguishing between Grand Marimba and Vital Series: Mallets' marimba. They both sound so unbelievably realistic.
Download microsoft access crack. Grand Marimba is a fantastic marimba VST that features a 5-octave Yamaha 6100, designed with the legendary Keiko Abe.
The 6100 is a flagship instrument with precision tuning, Honduran Rosewood bars, and welded resonators (rattle-free).
Grand Marimba is a Kontakt Player instrument, meaning you do not need the full version of Kontakt to use it in your DAW.
5) Marimba by Frontline Producer (Paid)
Marimba by Frontline Producer is a great-sounding, and very affordable, marimba VST from Producer Loops.
The significant difference from the others on the list: it includes loops. Frontline Producer includes 343 marimba loops at tempos between 100 and 127 (which can be warped to your liking).
In addition to loops is a software sampler patch, which you can use to create your parts and melodies.
Marimba by Frontline Producer is available at Plugin Boutique.
6) Fine Mallets Bundle from Cinematique Instruments (Paid)
Fine Mallets is an armory of seven mallet percussion instruments including marimba, vibraphone, metallophone, glockenspiel, kalimba, and more.
The marimba patch sounds much dryer than others I have previously listed in this article.
There is also much less sustain, but I think it still sounds excellent and has commercial production potential.
The articulations included for the marimba patch include hard mallet, felt mallet, and big-soft mallet.
Note: the full version of Kontakt is required to use Fine Mallets.
Fine Mallets is available at Plugin Boutique.
Things to Consider When Looking for Marimba VSTs
Depending on your production, you may pick a different plugin. Some digital audio workstations even have marimbas and other percussion instruments included with the software.
Using Marimba VSTs in Pop and Hip Hop Music
Because you're working in pop or hip hop music, you may not need the highest quality samples. A free option may work just fine.
I use Cubase, and it comes standard with Halion Sonic SE 3 — a VST sampler and sound creation system.
Halion Sonic SE 3 isn't the full version of Halion, but it does come with some decent marimba patches. The included presets work fine for pop and hip hop music.
Check if your DAW includes some free virtual instruments and see if they're any good!
Using Marimba VSTs For Orchestral and TV/Film Composition
Composition for film, TV, and video games requires next-level libraries — your competition will be using them.
Blowing away music supervisors right from the get-go is imperative, as you may only get one chance.
Using high-quality instrument samples is, unfortunately, a must when working in the TV and film industry.
For orchestral music, quality is also crucial. Unless you plan to hire out an entire orchestra to play your piece and record it, you may want to save up for the best virtual libraries you can afford.
Compatibility of Marimba Virtual Instrument Plugins
Most digital audio workstations today support VST (virtual studio technology) — VST is the most common format today.
Best Vsts For Reaper
However, if you use a DAW like Pro Tools, you may have to use a format known as AAX or RTAS. There are workarounds, but they are obnoxious, requiring you to use Reaper inside Pro Tools to host VST plugins — a total headache.
Fortunately, most plugins today come in different formats.
- VST (Virtual Studio Technology)
- AU (AudioUnits)
- AAX (Avid Audio eXtension)
- RTAS (Real-Time Audio Suite)
- TDM (Time-division Multiplexing)
Read your DAWs manual to see which format it supports.
Conclusion
Vital Series: Mallets remains to be my favorite mallet VST plugin bundle, though I have to say, Grand Marimba is coming in at a close second.
My best piece of advise when working with any plugins and instruments is to keep amassing them until you have an extensive library — like a painter's color palette.
The 'best-sounding' marimba VST may not always be the best application for a given style of music, like hip-hop, lo-fi, or pop.
Best Free Vst For Melodies
If you're interested in recording and production, specifically relating to drums and percussion, check out some of my other roundups:
Have you tried out any of the marimba VST plugins I've listed here? What do you think? I'd love to hear from you in the comments down below.
Please share this article with your producer friends if you found it helpful.
Thanks for reading.
