Top 5 Free Plugins for Intermediate Producers

This blog is aimed at helping music makers in a post-covid world, where the cost of living has skyrocketed and expensive plugin purchases may be put on hold. Whether it's life commitments or you're at the stage where you want to take music production more seriously, this blog aims to tackle those issues. Throughout the blog, I break down 5 of the top plugins (in my opinion) to help you take your music to the next level; while saving a bit of money.

Whilst this blog is aimed at intermediate producers, beginners that are comfortable with their DAWs (digital audio workstation) and have outgrown their stock plugins should find value in the post. If you're interested in music production you should also check out our in-person music production courses or online music production courses over at London Sound Academy.

Izotope Vinyl (Creative Effect)

What is it:

I know what you're thinking; who even uses or listens to vinyl anymore. Fun fact, in 2021 vinyl sales made 23% of all album sales, making it a 30-year high... Stay with me.
The Izotope Vinyl plugin emulates old vinyl records. It enables you to get all the benefits of vinyl, you decide how much or how little of that lo-fi sound you want. Whether it's the warping you're after that gives your track movement. The crackle of an old dusty vinyl or you're chasing the sound of a specific decade. This plugin is for you. Izoptope Vinyl completely alters the tonal balance of your track, the choice is yours.

When to use it:

If your tracks lack movement or sound too perfect, this will give your song a more organic feel. Place this on your master bus or individual tracks, it's worth experimenting to see where it fits your needs best.

TDR Nova (Clean EQ)

What is it:

An extremely flexible dynamic equaliser. You can carry out your usual eq duties; whilst having the added benefit of multi-band compression. Unlike the upcoming Sonimus eq, this isn't a character eq. This sort of eq is what I like to call "clean and pristine" as it doesn't alter the sound in the same way a character eq would.

When to use it:

This is a great workhorse eq (depending on the DAW you use and the tools you have available). This can be used pretty much anywhere you see fit, busses, groups or individual tracks. Personally, there are two main reasons I use it. One, using the multiband feature to control the low end and two, careful boosts in the hi-end can add a bit of air.

Sonimus (Character EQ)

What is it:

Modelled on the API 550 and the Pultec EQP. This plugin's main benefit is that it allows you to cut and boost low frequencies within the same range. Alongside this, you have a drive knob which comes in handy if you want to add a little grit.

When to use it:

Perhaps you've used the previously mentioned TDR Nova (wink wink) to handle your cleaning-up duties. The next stage would be to add this SonEQ directly after. It works best on low-end instruments/sounds or groups with a touch of the drive knob to jazz things up.

Klanghelm DC1a (Clean Compressor)

What is it:

This DC1a is super easy to use but has some advanced features that can come in handy too. This compressor is a clean-sounding compressor, that has the ability to sidechain high pass the low end if needs be.

When to use it:

This is a good all-purpose compressor for quick and easy compression duties. It can perform a few extra tasks if needs be, with its added features.
This is best used on the master bus if you're doing a quick demo master, it also pairs nicely with Klanghelm MJUC jr if used before it.

Klanghelm MJUC jr (Character Compressor)

What is it:

I've tried to avoid using the phrase "Analog warmth" thought this post. However, with this plugin, I have to surrender. This is a character compressor (Vari-MU) in its truest sense, if you've never used a compressor like this one you'll be in for a pleasant surprise. Whether you use it to add glue on your master bus, or for adding a bit more pulse within to track look no further than the MJUC jr.

When to use it:

This shines on the master bus but can equally be used on the group. If you have some vocals that are lacking or too dynamic, it is definitely worth giving this a go especially if you use the DC1a before it.

Conclusion

I have chosen these A for their simplicity, as there aren't too many controls. B for their overall sound, as you can choose whether you want to sound ultra clean or add some old-school vibe to your productions. Finally, C for their complementary benefits. Together these FREE plugins can definitely add some ammo to your arsenal.
DJ gym has a range of courses in which you can learn more about music production (plugins too). Courses range from beginner to advanced, which is great no matter what level you are on in your production journey. Click here for more details.

‍