The Top 10 Free Compressor VST Plug-ins
A compressor is one of the most important tools in a producer's arsenal. It can be used to even out the dynamics of a signal, add punch and presence, or even create entirely new sounds. But compressors can be expensive, so what if you're on a budget?
Fear not! There are plenty of great free compressor VST plug-ins available that can give you the same results as their paid counterparts. Here are 10 of the best:
TDR Kotelnikov is a mastering-grade compressor that's known for its transparency and versatility. It's a great choice for any type of music, and it's easy to use even for beginners.
DC1A is a classic FET compressor that's known for its warm, punchy sound. It's perfect for vocals, drums, and other percussive instruments.
ThrillseekerLA mkII is a LA-2A-style compressor that's known for its smooth, creamy sound. It's perfect for vocals, guitars, and other instruments that need a little extra love.
Molot is a Soviet-style compressor that's known for its aggressive sound. It's perfect for drums, bass, and other instruments that need to be brought to the front of the mix.
TDR Molotok is a multi-band version of the Molot compressor. It's perfect for taming harsh frequencies or adding punch to a mix.
BPB Dirty LA is a LA-2A-style compressor with a bit of grit and attitude. It's perfect for adding character to vocals, guitars, and other instruments.
TLS 1295 LEA is a 12-band multi-band compressor that's perfect for mastering or mixing. It's easy to use and offers a wide range of control.
DCAM FreeComp is a vintage-style compressor that's perfect for adding warmth and character to a mix. It's easy to use and offers a wide range of control.
MJUC JR. combines very natural, dense compression characteristics of the early days of this type of compression with a more forward sounding approach and more harmonics creating of the variable-mu comps of the early 1960s.
RoughRider 3 is a mastering-grade compressor that's perfect for adding punch and presence to a mix. It's easy to use and offers a wide range of control.
These are just a few of the many great free compressor VST plug-ins available. With so many options to choose from, you're sure to find one that's perfect for your needs. So what are you waiting for? Start exploring today!
Bonus: How to Use a Compressor
Now that you know about some of the best free compressor VST plug-ins, it's time to learn how to use them. Here are a few tips:
- Start with a low threshold and a high ratio. This will help you to avoid over-compressing your signal.
- Experiment with different attack and release times. These settings will determine how quickly the compressor reacts to changes in volume.
- Use a sidechain input to duck other sounds when a certain frequency range is triggered. This is a great way to make vocals stand out in a mix, for example.
- Don't be afraid to use multiple compressors on the same track. This can help you to achieve a more complex and nuanced sound.
With a little practice, you'll be using compressors like a pro in no time!
