Best Free Audio Plugins You Must Have for 2024 | The List
It’s a new year, which means it’s time to compile an updated list of the top free VST, AAX, and AU audio plugins for 2024. Keep your music production tools fresh and effective with these suggestions for the best free audio plugins available this year. We will update this list as new free audio plugins are released throughout the year.
This list of free audio plugins is categorized into effects, utilities, instruments, and sound effects. The plugins are provided for reference and are not listed in order of preference.
Having access to a variety of plugins across different categories can greatly enhance the creative possibilities for music producers and sound designers. Best of all, it is completely free!
EFFECTS AND UTILITIES
Yum Audio
Explore four outstanding free audio plugins for stereo enhancement, compression, clipping, and analog character. These plugins are fully compatible with AAX, VST, and AU formats across all major DAWs and platforms.
CHOW Matrix Delay by Chow DSP
The delay effect is achieved through an infinitely expandable tree of delay graphics, each equipped with its own set of controls for feedback, panning, distortion, and more. This unique “tree” structure enables customization of properties such as delay time, feedback, and panning for each individual delay line.
https://www.pluginboutique.com
Flex Reverb by Platone Studio
This high-quality plate reverb is now conveniently available for free, offering not only a sublime reverb effect but also an added bonus of a user-friendly graphic equalizer. The automation feature of the reverb EQs has the remarkable ability to truly elevate your music to new heights, creating a captivating and immersive experience for your audience that will resonate long after they have listened.
BitFlip by Cradle
Drawing inspiration from the iconic 8-bit sounds found in vintage video games, this plugin offers a unique opportunity to recreate nostalgic classic soundtracks or infuse your latest musical masterpiece with retro textures that will undoubtedly captivate your audience. With this cutting-edge tool at your disposal, you can effortlessly transport listeners to a bygone era while adding a distinctive flair to your compositions.
TAL Vocoder by Tal Software
A vintage-style vocoder with 11 bands that reproduces the classic sound of vocoders from the early 1980s.
Ozone 11 Mastering EQ by iZotope
Enhance the impact of your tracks with the new Transient/Sustain mode. Quickly identify and address problematic frequencies using the intuitive interface, and refine your stereo image with the Mid/Side mode. Unleash a variety of features and capabilities with this versatile and powerful EQ plugin.
https://www.native-instruments.com/
Tungsten, Cesium, AxeCapture, and Crystal by Green Oak Software
Unveil the magic of four indispensable free effect plugins that have the power to transform your music production endeavors. From creating mesmerizing delays and rich choruses to crafting intricate FX and sophisticated hybrid synthesizer sounds, these plugins are bound to elevate your creative output to new heights. Explore a world of endless possibilities with these dynamic tools at your disposal.
SPACE LIT by Cymatics
With 3 free powerful reverb modes and a host of unique features, this tool enables you to fully customize your reverb. It is ideal for use with synths, instruments, drums, and vocals.
HEATWAVE by Slate Digital
Elevate the quality of any audio track by infusing it with a raw and powerful edge, enhancing its grit and aggressiveness while maintaining the integrity of its original transients. This transformation will bring a dynamic and intense energy to the sound, making it stand out and captivate listeners with its bold and impactful presence.
DEJA VU by Cymatics
The software includes 9-time signatures to explore, along with customizable parameters for adjusting the outcome through time-stretching and pitch-shifting in a musical manner.
MEMORY: Analog Chorus by Cymatics
Introducing subtle imperfections to audio not only adds character but also evokes a profound sense of nostalgia. These imperfections have the magical ability to transport listeners back in time, triggering nostalgic emotions and memories that resonate deeply within their hearts.
Kilohearts Essentials
Gain access to a comprehensive and complimentary assortment of invaluable effects that are not only free but can also be seamlessly integrated as standard plugins in your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) or any Kilohearts Snapin Host. Elevate your music production with these versatile tools that are at your disposal for enhancing and refining your sound effortlessly.
Inner Pitch by Aauburn Sounds
A cutting-edge pitch-shifting plugin that delivers unparalleled, top-tier quality and remarkably natural sound.
MFreeFXBundle | 37 Effects
This bundle is a diverse array of audio effects that are generously offered to you at absolutely no cost. While the premium commercial plugins boast additional features, these complimentary ones stand out as exceptional gems amidst the vast array of plugins available on the market. It’s worth noting that you have the liberty to elevate the capabilities of these complimentary plugins at your convenience by acquiring a license.
INSTRUMENT PLUGINS
JACOB COLLIER AUDIENCE CHOIR by Native Instruments
Native Instruments, joined forces with the highly acclaimed jazz virtuoso, Jacob Collier, to craft a unique vocal instrument called Audience Choir exclusively for Kontakt Player. The most exciting news? This plugin is now accessible to everyone and it’s absolutely FREE!
https://www.native-instruments.com
Regency by Nakst’s Audio Plugins
A cutting-edge synthesizer equipped with an extensive array of modulation units is a game-changer for any music producer. This exceptional synth boasts not only four envelopes but also three multi-segment LFOs, providing unparalleled flexibility and creative potential in shaping sounds to perfection.
Analog Lab Play by Arturia
A free software instrument with a library of 100 essential synths, keys, basses, pads, and more. This exceptional tool is a game-changer for musicians and producers looking to access top-notch sounds without any financial investment.
8 Free Plugins by IK Multimedia
Get AmpliTube 5 Custom Shop, TONEX CS, SampleTank 4 Custom Shop, T-RackS 5 Custom Shop, MixBox CS, MODO BASS 2 CS, MODO DRUM CS 1.5, and Syntronik 2 CS for free!
Synthesizer Expander Module by Cherry Audio
Experience unparalleled freedom and creativity with this remarkable free emulation of the iconic Oberheim® self-contained synthesizer module that revolutionized music production when it was first introduced in 1974. This keyboardless mono module was designed to seamlessly complement one of the earliest digital sequencers, the Oberheim DS-2, and has now been faithfully recreated for you to enjoy its timeless sounds and functionalities.
BELL SWARM by Spitfire Audio
Immerse yourself in the enchanting sounds of a delightful collection of vibraphones, glockenspiels, and hand bells meticulously recorded within the awe-inspiring acoustics of a medieval church. Transport your listeners to a realm of pure musical bliss as you effortlessly craft cascading layers of tremolo with elegantly timed swarms, or savor the luxurious versatility offered by an array of delightful single hits.
https://labs.spitfireaudio.com
AUTOGRAPH GRAND by Spitfire Audio
Nestled within the esteemed Woodshed Recording studios in the picturesque Malibu, resides a magnificent Yamaha C6 grand piano that has been graced by an impressive array of musical icons. From the likes of the legendary Lady Gaga, iconic Paul Simon, powerhouse Ariana Grande and incomparable Barbra Streisand to the rock legends Metallica, influential RZA, and groundbreaking KoRn, this piano has witnessed unparalleled artistry.
https://labs.spitfireaudio.com
1928 Steinway Piano by 8DIO
The 1928 Scoring Piano holds a revered status as one of the most treasured and highly coveted instruments in the illustrious history of pianos. This exquisite masterpiece belongs to a distinguished series of ivory-clad Scoring grands meticulously crafted in Germany back in 1928. Renowned for its unparalleled craftsmanship, this particular series from that era is celebrated as one of the finest ever produced, setting an enduring standard of excellence that persists even today.
The Felt Seiler – Free Edition by Strezov Sampling
The exquisite ambiance of the library was meticulously captured in the prestigious Sofia Session Studio B using a diverse array of close microphones, expertly combined into a singular microphone position to ensure optimal sound quality and detail. The Felt Seiler boasts an impressive collection of not just one, but three additional synth and sound design layers for you to explore and experiment with. These layers have been thoughtfully named based on the emotions they evoke – Warmth, Ache, and Loneliness – allowing you to craft a truly unique and evocative sound that resonates with your creative vision.
https://www.strezov-sampling.com
PIANO ONE by Neovst
Through the implementation of the Sound Magic Hybrid Modelling Engine, Piano One elevates the musical experience by seamlessly combining the unparalleled realism of Sampling with the dynamic playability of Modelling. This technology ensures an immediate response without any noticeable delay, delivering a sound quality that is undeniably authentic and deeply resonant, surpassing what can be achieved through traditional sampling or modeling methods alone.
CASSETTE ROADS by Sample Science
Cassette Roads offers a truly enchanting experience, capturing the exquisite sound of an electric piano recorded on cassette with unparalleled warmth and nostalgia. This exceptional plugin is not just a tool but a gateway to crafting mesmerizing Lofi beats that are tailor-made for studying or unwinding. Elevate your creative pursuits with ethereal vaporwave lullabies that transport listeners to a dreamy realm of tranquility and bliss, all thanks to the magical allure of Cassette Roads.
https://www.samplescience.info
Monolit Synth by BLEASS
BLEASS Monolit ingeniously merges the sumptuous analog sound and user-friendly interface of BLEASS Alpha with the boundless creative possibilities of BLEASS Omega. The exquisite outcome is a sleek and powerful monophonic synthesizer meticulously crafted for sculpting earth-shaking basslines, scorching solo leads, enchanting arpeggios, and ethereal sound effects that transport listeners to distant realms of sonic bliss.
https://www.pluginboutique.com
Easy Strings by Audiolatry
Easy Strings is meticulously organized into three distinct sections: Violin, Viola, and Cello, each dedicated to showcasing the unique capabilities of these exquisite instruments. Within these pages, you will uncover a treasure trove of four enchanting playing techniques tailored to each instrument: the soulful Sustain Vibrato, the mesmerizing Tremolo, the playful Pizzicato, and the lively Spiccato. This harmonious ensemble culminates in a grand total of twelve expertly crafted presets that are sure to elevate your musical compositions to new heights.
Vinyl Guitar 2 by Echo Soundworks
Experience the exquisite sound of 10 meticulously multi-sampled acoustic guitars, each offering a wide range of highly stylized presets that draw inspiration from the captivating vibes of Lofi, Chillout, Nostalgic tunes, Sad Trap beats, and Hip Hop melodies. Dive into a world where every strum and pluck is carefully captured to deliver an authentic and emotive musical experience across various genres.
https://www.echosoundworks.com
KEE BASS by Bartinic
Martinic took the original electronic schema and meticulously recreated the iconic Kee Bass instrument from scratch using advanced modeling technology without relying on any sampling techniques. By staying true to the essence of the original design, Martinic ensured that every nuance and detail was faithfully reproduced. In addition, they ingeniously incorporated modern enhancements to elevate its functionality and uniqueness, including an expanded range for more creative possibilities, a dynamic filter for added tonal control, and sophisticated modulation capabilities to bring a contemporary twist to this timeless classic.
SOUND SAMPLES AND EFFECTS
Hammers + Waves – Sample Pack Vol. 1 by Skybox Audio
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of music with captivating melodies and unique one-shots meticulously crafted from our cutting-edge, award-winning modern keyboard instruments available exclusively at Hammers + Waves. These exceptional sounds have been instrumental in the creation of Grammy and Oscar-winning tracks, now offered to you as a complimentary gift! Experience the magic firsthand by taking these premium sounds for a spin, completely free of charge.
MODERN SCI-FI SFX by Sample Science
With “Modern Sci-Fi Sfx,” a meticulously curated collection of 146 cutting-edge sound effects tailor-made for science fiction enthusiasts, filmmakers, and video game developers alike. Each meticulously crafted sound effect is designed to elevate your projects to new heights, adding depth, realism, and excitement to every scene. From pulse-pounding alarms to thunderous impacts, intricate electronic device FXs to otherworldly alien signals, this sample offers a glimpse into the boundless creativity that awaits you.
https://www.samplescience.info
Processed Impacts by Boom Library
Experience the sheer power and impact of these meticulously crafted, heavily-processed sound effects that are being offered to you completely FREE of charge. These gritty and punchy impacts and transitions are tailor-made for scenarios involving destruction, intense fighting scenes, and explosive moments that will elevate your projects to a whole new level. From low rumblings that set the mood, high-speed passbys that grab attention, to descending noises and booming blasts of all kinds – this collection is a must-have addition to your arsenal of creative tools.
Free SFX Collection by Krotos
Every single sound effect meticulously crafted by the talented Krotos team guarantees a level of quality that is truly unmatched. When you choose to utilize these sounds, you are not just downloading mere audio files; rather, you are delving into a rich universe of immersive auditory experiences that will elevate your projects to professional-grade levels and captivate your audience like never before.
