7 Free Plugins That Will Improve Your Mixes
Article Content
Array ( [0] => <p>It’s the end of the month, and your bank account is empty… [1] => <p>…again. [2] => <p>Oops. [3] => <p>And as much as you might feel like buying that new Waves plugin… [4] => <p>(You’ve had your eye on it for <em>months</em>, right?) [5] => <p>It’s probably not a good idea. [6] => <p>But if you’re still looking to expand your plugin library, don’t worry. [7] => <p>Sometimes, the best things in life are free… [8] => <p>Here are 7 of my favorite free plugins. Each of them offers something new and unique (no boring EQs or compressors). Download them all to extend your sonic palette and ultimately, craft better-sounding tracks. [9] => <p>And if you’re looking to dive deeper, I also put together a list of five plugins I use on every mix. If you’re wondering which plugins I recommend, download the list below to make sure you’ve got my top tools for the job. [10] => <div style="border: 2px solid red; padding: 20px; text-align: center; font-size: 20px;"><strong><a style="color: #5a5a5e;" href="http://behindthespeakers.com/5-plugins-pdf-tpaf/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Discover the 5 plugins I use on (almost) every mix <span style="color: red;">(free PDF)</span></a></strong></div> <h2>1. iZotope Neutrino</h2> <p><img decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-33604 size-medium" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-neutrino-190x300.jpg" alt="iZotope Neutrino—one of my favorite free VST plugins" width="190" height="300" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-neutrino-190x300.jpg 190w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-neutrino-127x200.jpg 127w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-neutrino.jpg 319w" sizes="(max-width: 190px) 100vw, 190px" /> [11] => <p>Neutrino is the baby brother of <a href="https://theproaudiofiles.com/video/tips-for-using-izotope-neutron-for-multi-buss-mixing/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Neutron</a>—iZotope’s newest channel-strip plugin. While Neutron has a number of innovative features, Neutrino spins off the best of them. [12] => <p>Neutrino tames undesirable resonances caused by poor room acoustics, cheap gear, and heavy-handed processing. iZotope calls the effect “spectral shaping,” and it can sound similar to gentle, low-ratio <a href="http://behindthespeakers.com/multiband-compression-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">multiband compression</a>. This can make tracks sound smoother and more polished—like sanding the rough edges off a freshly cut piece of wood. I find Neutrino particularly useful on electric guitar tracks, which often have lots of harsh resonances. [13] => <p><strong><a href="https://www.izotope.com/en/products/mix/neutrino.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download iZotope Neutrino</a></strong> [14] => <h2>2. Voxengo SPAN</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33607" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/voxengo-span-300x219.jpg" alt="Voxengo SPAN" width="340" height="248" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/voxengo-span-300x219.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/voxengo-span-200x146.jpg 200w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/voxengo-span-400x292.jpg 400w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/voxengo-span.jpg 849w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [15] => <p>People say “don’t mix with your eyes.” [16] => <p><em>Meh.</em> [17] => <p>The truth? [18] => <p>Tools that provide visual feedback, when used properly, <em>can</em> help you make better mixing decisions. [19] => <div class="ad content-ad"><span>ADVERTISEMENT</span><div id="div-gpt-ad-1516673860578-0" style="width:300px; height:250px;"></div><script>googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1516673860578-0'); });</script></div> <p>A <a href="http://behindthespeakers.com/spectrum-analyzers-supercharge-mixes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">spectrum analyzer</a> is one of these tools. It plots the frequencies of sounds out on a graph, which allows you to “see” what tracks are comprised of. [20] => <p>SPAN is my favorite spectrum analyzer. You can control the ballistics and response of its graph, which makes it flexible enough for a wide variety of tasks. You can even route multiple tracks into SPAN and compare their frequency content. [21] => <p><strong><a href="http://www.voxengo.com/product/span/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download Voxengo SPAN</a></strong> [22] => <p>(P.S. Voxengo has a few other free VST plugins. They’re worth checking out too, but SPAN is my favorite.) [23] => <h2>3. Brainworx bx_solo</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33601" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/brainworx-bx-solo-300x73.jpg" alt="Brainworx bx_solo" width="340" height="82" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/brainworx-bx-solo-300x73.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/brainworx-bx-solo-200x49.jpg 200w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/brainworx-bx-solo-400x97.jpg 400w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/brainworx-bx-solo.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [24] => <p>Bx_solo is a no-frills, stereo-imaging plugin. While it’s the least sexy of this bunch, it can still be pretty useful. [25] => <p>I like to add bx_solo to my mix bus. While I rarely push the stereo width past 100%, collapsing it to zero is an easy way to check for mono compatibility. The mid and side solo buttons are also useful. It’s great to have this one around—you never know when you might need it! [26] => <p><strong><a href="http://www.brainworx-music.de/en/plugins/bx_solo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download Brainworx bx_solo</a></strong> [27] => <h2>4. HOFA 4U Project Time</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33603" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/hofa-4u-project-time-300x153.jpg" alt="HOFA 4U Project Time" width="340" height="173" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/hofa-4u-project-time.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/hofa-4u-project-time-200x102.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [28] => <p>Mixing is a race against time. [29] => <p>The more time you spend on a mix, the more attached you become to what it sounds like. This makes it progressively harder to make good mixing decisions. Given enough time, even the <em>worst</em> mix will start to sound decent. [30] => <p>This is one reason <a href="http://behindthespeakers.com/demoitis-destroying-mixes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">I recommend mixing quickly and impulsively</a>. You’ll get to the finish line faster, retain more objectivity, and ultimately, craft better mixes. [31] => <p>The first step towards more efficient mixing is to track how much time you spend doing it. Without this information, it’s easy to get lost in a black hole of endless tweaking. [32] => <p>Project Time makes this easy. Add it to a track, and it will start counting. The timer automatically stops when you close the session, and starts when you open it up again. [33] => <p>Keep an eye on Project Time, and you’ll train yourself to <a href="http://behindthespeakers.com/finish-next-mix-half-time/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mix faster and more efficiently</a>. It’s also an invaluable tool if you bill by the hour! [34] => <p><strong><a href="https://hofa-plugins.de/en/plugins/4u/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download Project Time</a></strong> [35] => <div class="ad content-ad content-ad-2"><span>ADVERTISEMENT</span></div> <script> window.addEventListener("load", () => { if(window.innerWidth > 767) return; window.setTimeout(() => { var ta = jQuery.get(aqvars.ajaxurl, { action: "tpaf_adrotate", group: 1, aid: 22 }); ta.then(function(response) { jQuery(".content-ad-2").append(response); }); }, 0); }); </script> <h2>5. MeldaProduction MFreeFXBundle</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33606" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/meldaproduction-mfreeeffectsbundle-300x245.jpg" alt="MeldaProduction MFreeFXBundle" width="340" height="277" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/meldaproduction-mfreeeffectsbundle-300x245.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/meldaproduction-mfreeeffectsbundle-200x163.jpg 200w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/meldaproduction-mfreeeffectsbundle-400x326.jpg 400w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/meldaproduction-mfreeeffectsbundle.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [36] => <p>MeldaProduction makes some great plugins. They’ve earned the praise of many notable engineers, including mastering guru Ian Shepard. [37] => <p>The MFreeFXBundle contains 30 free VST plugins. They range from workhorse tools like a compressor and EQ, to less common effects like a ring modulator, <a href="https://theproaudiofiles.com/video/4-basic-types-of-modulation-effects-you-can-use-in-a-mix/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">flanger</a>, and oscilloscope. [38] => <p>If you’re looking to fill some holes in your plugin library, this is a great place to start. [39] => <p><strong><a href="https://www.meldaproduction.com/MFreeFXBundle" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download the MFreeFXBundle</a></strong> [40] => <h2>6. Flux BitterSweet</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33602" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/flux-bittersweet-free-vst-plugin-300x233.jpg" alt="Flux BitterSweet" width="340" height="264" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/flux-bittersweet-free-vst-plugin-300x233.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/flux-bittersweet-free-vst-plugin-200x156.jpg 200w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/flux-bittersweet-free-vst-plugin-400x311.jpg 400w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/flux-bittersweet-free-vst-plugin.jpg 450w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [41] => <p>BitterSweet is among the best transient shapers out there. It can produce results on par with studio mainstays like SPL’s Transient Designer and Waves’ Trans-X. [42] => <p>This simple plugin can achieve a wide variety of effects. Turn the knob to the right to <a href="https://theproaudiofiles.com/video/how-to-enhance-drum-transients-in-a-mix/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">add punch to drums</a>, enhance the pluck of an acoustic guitar, or boost the consonants in a vocal performance. Turn the knob to the left to soften tracks and push them back in the soundstage. [43] => <p><strong><a href="http://www.fluxhome.com/products/freewares/bittersweet-v3" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download Flux BitterSweet</a></strong> [44] => <h2>7. iZotope Vinyl</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33605" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-vinyl-free-vst-plugins-300x208.jpg" alt="iZotope Vinyl—another one of my favorite free VST plugins!" width="340" height="236" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-vinyl-free-vst-plugins-300x208.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-vinyl-free-vst-plugins-200x139.jpg 200w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-vinyl-free-vst-plugins-400x278.jpg 400w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-vinyl-free-vst-plugins.jpg 540w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [45] => <p>Sometimes a little crackle is a good thing. [46] => <p>Vinyl will make tracks sound like they’re being played on a turntable. You can vary the intensity of the effect by controlling the volume of different types of noise, the degree of wear and tear, and the decade your sound is from. The results range from subtle filtering to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOiFt47CsXo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Edison phonograph</a>. [47] => <p>This plugin is great for special effects, like filtering down a vocal or making an intro sound tiny. [48] => <p><strong><a href="https://www.izotope.com/en/products/create-and-design/vinyl.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download iZotope Vinyl</a></strong> [49] => <h2>Moving Beyond Free Plugins: My Favorite Plugins</h2> <p>I hope these 7 free plugins help you craft tracks that sound fresh and unique. [50] => <p>If you’re looking to dive deeper, I also put together a list of 5 plugins I use on every mix. If you’re wondering which plugins I recommend, download the list below to make sure you’ve got my top tools for the job. [51] => <div style="border: 2px solid red; padding: 20px; text-align: center; font-size: 20px;"><strong><a style="color: #5a5a5e;" href="http://behindthespeakers.com/5-plugins-pdf-tpaf/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Discover the 5 plugins I use on (almost) every mix <span style="color: red;">(free PDF)</span></a></strong></div> <hr /> <h2>Bonus: 3 More Free Plugins for Mixing</h2> <div class="arve wp-block-nextgenthemes-arve arve-hover-effect-none" data-mode="lazyload" data-oembed="1" data-provider="youtube" id="arve-youtube-qr5c9wy7d0k64261a53ad7c3122284762" data-reset-after-played data-fullscreen="disabled" data-volume="100"> <span class="arve-inner"><br /> <span class="arve-embed arve-embed--has-aspect-ratio" style="aspect-ratio: 610 / 343"><br /> <span class="arve-ar" style="padding-top:56.229508%"></span><noscript class="arve-noscript"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen class="arve-iframe fitvidsignore" data-arve="arve-youtube-qr5c9wy7d0k64261a53ad7c3122284762" data-src-no-ap="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Qr5C9WY7d0k?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=0&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="0" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-presentation" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Qr5C9WY7d0k?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=1&enablejsapi=1" title="3 Free Plugins I Use in Every Mix"></iframe><br /> </noscript><img decoding="async" alt="3 Free Plugins I Use in Every Mix" src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Qr5C9WY7d0k/hqdefault.jpg" srcset="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Qr5C9WY7d0k/mqdefault.jpg 320w, https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Qr5C9WY7d0k/hqdefault.jpg 480w, https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Qr5C9WY7d0k/sddefault.jpg 640w, https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Qr5C9WY7d0k/maxresdefault.jpg 1280w" class="arve-thumbnail" loading="lazy" width="480" height="360"> [52] => <h5 class="arve-title"> 3 Free Plugins I Use in Every Mix<br /> </h5> <p><button role="button" type="button" class="arve-play-btn arve-play-btn--youtube" data-target="#arve-youtube-qr5c9wy7d0k64261a53ad7c3122284762" aria-label="Play video"><br /> <svg class="arve-play-svg arve-play-svg--youtube" focusable="false" aria-hidden="true" width="68" viewBox="0 0 68 48" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"> <path fill="#1f1f1e" fill-opacity="0.81" d="m .66,37.62 c 0,0 .66,4.70 2.70,6.77 2.58,2.71 5.98,2.63 7.49,2.91 5.43,.52 23.10,.68 23.12,.68 .00,-1.3e-5 14.29,-0.02 23.81,-0.71 1.32,-0.15 4.22,-0.17 6.81,-2.89 2.03,-2.07 2.70,-6.77 2.70,-6.77 0,0 .67,-5.52 .67,-11.04 l 0,-5.17 c 0,-5.52 -0.67,-11.04 -0.67,-11.04 0,0 -0.66,-4.70 -2.70,-6.77 C 62.03,.86 59.13,.84 57.80,.69 48.28,0 34.00,0 34.00,0 33.97,0 19.69,0 10.18,.69 8.85,.84 5.95,.86 3.36,3.58 1.32,5.65 .66,10.35 .66,10.35 c 0,0 -0.55,4.50 -0.66,9.45 l 0,8.36 c .10,4.94 .66,9.45 .66,9.45 z"></path> <path fill="#fff" d="m 26.96,13.67 18.37,9.62 -18.37,9.55 -0.00,-19.17 z" ></path> <path fill="#ccc" d="M 45.02,23.46 45.32,23.28 26.96,13.67 43.32,24.34 45.02,23.46 z" ></path> </svg> [53] => <p></button> [54] => <p></span> [55] => <p></span><br /> <script type="application/ld+json">{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@id":"https:\/\/theproaudiofiles.com\/free-plugins\/#arve-youtube-qr5c9wy7d0k64261a53ad7c3122284762","type":"VideoObject","embedURL":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Qr5C9WY7d0k?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=1&enablejsapi=1","name":"3 Free Plugins I Use in Every Mix","thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/Qr5C9WY7d0k\/hqdefault.jpg","uploadDate":"2017-06-24T10:36:35+00:00","author":"Pro Audio Files","description":"It\u2019s the end of the month, and your bank account is empty\u2026 ...again. Oops. And as much as you might feel like buying that new Waves plugin\u2026 (You\u2019ve had your eye on it for months, right?) It\u2019s probably not a good idea. But if you're still looking to expand your plugin library, don't worry. Sometimes,"}</script> </div> [56] => )
Chosen Position: 17
<p>The truth?</p>
Chosen Position: 34
<p>Keep an eye on Project Time, and you’ll train yourself to <a href="http://behindthespeakers.com/finish-next-mix-half-time/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mix faster and more efficiently</a>. It’s also an invaluable tool if you bill by the hour!</p>
It’s the end of the month, and your bank account is empty…
…again.
Oops.
And as much as you might feel like buying that new Waves plugin…
(You’ve had your eye on it for months, right?)
It’s probably not a good idea.
But if you’re still looking to expand your plugin library, don’t worry.
Sometimes, the best things in life are free…
Here are 7 of my favorite free plugins. Each of them offers something new and unique (no boring EQs or compressors). Download them all to extend your sonic palette and ultimately, craft better-sounding tracks.
And if you’re looking to dive deeper, I also put together a list of five plugins I use on every mix. If you’re wondering which plugins I recommend, download the list below to make sure you’ve got my top tools for the job.
1. iZotope Neutrino
Neutrino is the baby brother of Neutron—iZotope’s newest channel-strip plugin. While Neutron has a number of innovative features, Neutrino spins off the best of them.
Neutrino tames undesirable resonances caused by poor room acoustics, cheap gear, and heavy-handed processing. iZotope calls the effect “spectral shaping,” and it can sound similar to gentle, low-ratio multiband compression. This can make tracks sound smoother and more polished—like sanding the rough edges off a freshly cut piece of wood. I find Neutrino particularly useful on electric guitar tracks, which often have lots of harsh resonances.
2. Voxengo SPAN
People say “don’t mix with your eyes.”
Meh.
The truth?
Tools that provide visual feedback, when used properly, can help you make better mixing decisions.
A spectrum analyzer is one of these tools. It plots the frequencies of sounds out on a graph, which allows you to “see” what tracks are comprised of.
SPAN is my favorite spectrum analyzer. You can control the ballistics and response of its graph, which makes it flexible enough for a wide variety of tasks. You can even route multiple tracks into SPAN and compare their frequency content.
(P.S. Voxengo has a few other free VST plugins. They’re worth checking out too, but SPAN is my favorite.)
3. Brainworx bx_solo
Bx_solo is a no-frills, stereo-imaging plugin. While it’s the least sexy of this bunch, it can still be pretty useful.
I like to add bx_solo to my mix bus. While I rarely push the stereo width past 100%, collapsing it to zero is an easy way to check for mono compatibility. The mid and side solo buttons are also useful. It’s great to have this one around—you never know when you might need it!
4. HOFA 4U Project Time
Mixing is a race against time.
The more time you spend on a mix, the more attached you become to what it sounds like. This makes it progressively harder to make good mixing decisions. Given enough time, even the worst mix will start to sound decent.
This is one reason I recommend mixing quickly and impulsively. You’ll get to the finish line faster, retain more objectivity, and ultimately, craft better mixes.
The first step towards more efficient mixing is to track how much time you spend doing it. Without this information, it’s easy to get lost in a black hole of endless tweaking.
Project Time makes this easy. Add it to a track, and it will start counting. The timer automatically stops when you close the session, and starts when you open it up again.
Keep an eye on Project Time, and you’ll train yourself to mix faster and more efficiently. It’s also an invaluable tool if you bill by the hour!
5. MeldaProduction MFreeFXBundle
MeldaProduction makes some great plugins. They’ve earned the praise of many notable engineers, including mastering guru Ian Shepard.
The MFreeFXBundle contains 30 free VST plugins. They range from workhorse tools like a compressor and EQ, to less common effects like a ring modulator, flanger, and oscilloscope.
If you’re looking to fill some holes in your plugin library, this is a great place to start.
6. Flux BitterSweet
BitterSweet is among the best transient shapers out there. It can produce results on par with studio mainstays like SPL’s Transient Designer and Waves’ Trans-X.
This simple plugin can achieve a wide variety of effects. Turn the knob to the right to add punch to drums, enhance the pluck of an acoustic guitar, or boost the consonants in a vocal performance. Turn the knob to the left to soften tracks and push them back in the soundstage.
7. iZotope Vinyl
Sometimes a little crackle is a good thing.
Vinyl will make tracks sound like they’re being played on a turntable. You can vary the intensity of the effect by controlling the volume of different types of noise, the degree of wear and tear, and the decade your sound is from. The results range from subtle filtering to Edison phonograph.
This plugin is great for special effects, like filtering down a vocal or making an intro sound tiny.
Moving Beyond Free Plugins: My Favorite Plugins
I hope these 7 free plugins help you craft tracks that sound fresh and unique.
If you’re looking to dive deeper, I also put together a list of 5 plugins I use on every mix. If you’re wondering which plugins I recommend, download the list below to make sure you’ve got my top tools for the job.
Bonus: 3 More Free Plugins for Mixing

3 Free Plugins I Use in Every Mix

Jason Moss
Array ( [0] => <p>It’s the end of the month, and your bank account is empty… [1] => <p>…again. [2] => <p>Oops. [3] => <p>And as much as you might feel like buying that new Waves plugin… [4] => <p>(You’ve had your eye on it for <em>months</em>, right?) [5] => <p>It’s probably not a good idea. [6] => <p>But if you’re still looking to expand your plugin library, don’t worry. [7] => <p>Sometimes, the best things in life are free… [8] => <p>Here are 7 of my favorite free plugins. Each of them offers something new and unique (no boring EQs or compressors). Download them all to extend your sonic palette and ultimately, craft better-sounding tracks. [9] => <p>And if you’re looking to dive deeper, I also put together a list of five plugins I use on every mix. If you’re wondering which plugins I recommend, download the list below to make sure you’ve got my top tools for the job. [10] => <div style="border: 2px solid red; padding: 20px; text-align: center; font-size: 20px;"><strong><a style="color: #5a5a5e;" href="http://behindthespeakers.com/5-plugins-pdf-tpaf/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Discover the 5 plugins I use on (almost) every mix <span style="color: red;">(free PDF)</span></a></strong></div> <h2>1. iZotope Neutrino</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33604 size-medium" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-neutrino-190x300.jpg" alt="iZotope Neutrino—one of my favorite free VST plugins" width="190" height="300" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-neutrino-190x300.jpg 190w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-neutrino-127x200.jpg 127w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-neutrino.jpg 319w" sizes="(max-width: 190px) 100vw, 190px" /> [11] => <p>Neutrino is the baby brother of <a href="https://theproaudiofiles.com/video/tips-for-using-izotope-neutron-for-multi-buss-mixing/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Neutron</a>—iZotope’s newest channel-strip plugin. While Neutron has a number of innovative features, Neutrino spins off the best of them. [12] => <p>Neutrino tames undesirable resonances caused by poor room acoustics, cheap gear, and heavy-handed processing. iZotope calls the effect “spectral shaping,” and it can sound similar to gentle, low-ratio <a href="http://behindthespeakers.com/multiband-compression-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">multiband compression</a>. This can make tracks sound smoother and more polished—like sanding the rough edges off a freshly cut piece of wood. I find Neutrino particularly useful on electric guitar tracks, which often have lots of harsh resonances. [13] => <p><strong><a href="https://www.izotope.com/en/products/mix/neutrino.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download iZotope Neutrino</a></strong> [14] => <h2>2. Voxengo SPAN</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33607" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/voxengo-span-300x219.jpg" alt="Voxengo SPAN" width="340" height="248" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/voxengo-span-300x219.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/voxengo-span-200x146.jpg 200w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/voxengo-span-400x292.jpg 400w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/voxengo-span.jpg 849w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [15] => <p>People say “don’t mix with your eyes.” [16] => <p><em>Meh.</em> [17] => <p>The truth? [18] => <p>Tools that provide visual feedback, when used properly, <em>can</em> help you make better mixing decisions. [19] => <div class="ad content-ad"><span>ADVERTISEMENT</span><div id="div-gpt-ad-1516673860578-0" style="width:300px; height:250px;"></div><script>googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1516673860578-0'); });</script></div> <p>A <a href="http://behindthespeakers.com/spectrum-analyzers-supercharge-mixes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">spectrum analyzer</a> is one of these tools. It plots the frequencies of sounds out on a graph, which allows you to “see” what tracks are comprised of. [20] => <p>SPAN is my favorite spectrum analyzer. You can control the ballistics and response of its graph, which makes it flexible enough for a wide variety of tasks. You can even route multiple tracks into SPAN and compare their frequency content. [21] => <p><strong><a href="http://www.voxengo.com/product/span/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download Voxengo SPAN</a></strong> [22] => <p>(P.S. Voxengo has a few other free VST plugins. They’re worth checking out too, but SPAN is my favorite.) [23] => <h2>3. Brainworx bx_solo</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33601" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/brainworx-bx-solo-300x73.jpg" alt="Brainworx bx_solo" width="340" height="82" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/brainworx-bx-solo-300x73.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/brainworx-bx-solo-200x49.jpg 200w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/brainworx-bx-solo-400x97.jpg 400w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/brainworx-bx-solo.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [24] => <p>Bx_solo is a no-frills, stereo-imaging plugin. While it’s the least sexy of this bunch, it can still be pretty useful. [25] => <p>I like to add bx_solo to my mix bus. While I rarely push the stereo width past 100%, collapsing it to zero is an easy way to check for mono compatibility. The mid and side solo buttons are also useful. It’s great to have this one around—you never know when you might need it! [26] => <p><strong><a href="http://www.brainworx-music.de/en/plugins/bx_solo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download Brainworx bx_solo</a></strong> [27] => <h2>4. HOFA 4U Project Time</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33603" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/hofa-4u-project-time-300x153.jpg" alt="HOFA 4U Project Time" width="340" height="173" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/hofa-4u-project-time.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/hofa-4u-project-time-200x102.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [28] => <p>Mixing is a race against time. [29] => <p>The more time you spend on a mix, the more attached you become to what it sounds like. This makes it progressively harder to make good mixing decisions. Given enough time, even the <em>worst</em> mix will start to sound decent. [30] => <p>This is one reason <a href="http://behindthespeakers.com/demoitis-destroying-mixes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">I recommend mixing quickly and impulsively</a>. You’ll get to the finish line faster, retain more objectivity, and ultimately, craft better mixes. [31] => <p>The first step towards more efficient mixing is to track how much time you spend doing it. Without this information, it’s easy to get lost in a black hole of endless tweaking. [32] => <p>Project Time makes this easy. Add it to a track, and it will start counting. The timer automatically stops when you close the session, and starts when you open it up again. [33] => <p>Keep an eye on Project Time, and you’ll train yourself to <a href="http://behindthespeakers.com/finish-next-mix-half-time/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mix faster and more efficiently</a>. It’s also an invaluable tool if you bill by the hour! [34] => <p><strong><a href="https://hofa-plugins.de/en/plugins/4u/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download Project Time</a></strong> [35] => <div class="ad content-ad content-ad-2"><span>ADVERTISEMENT</span></div> <script> window.addEventListener("load", () => { if(window.innerWidth > 767) return; window.setTimeout(() => { var ta = jQuery.get(aqvars.ajaxurl, { action: "tpaf_adrotate", group: 1, aid: 22 }); ta.then(function(response) { jQuery(".content-ad-2").append(response); }); }, 0); }); </script> <h2>5. MeldaProduction MFreeFXBundle</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33606" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/meldaproduction-mfreeeffectsbundle-300x245.jpg" alt="MeldaProduction MFreeFXBundle" width="340" height="277" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/meldaproduction-mfreeeffectsbundle-300x245.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/meldaproduction-mfreeeffectsbundle-200x163.jpg 200w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/meldaproduction-mfreeeffectsbundle-400x326.jpg 400w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/meldaproduction-mfreeeffectsbundle.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [36] => <p>MeldaProduction makes some great plugins. They’ve earned the praise of many notable engineers, including mastering guru Ian Shepard. [37] => <p>The MFreeFXBundle contains 30 free VST plugins. They range from workhorse tools like a compressor and EQ, to less common effects like a ring modulator, <a href="https://theproaudiofiles.com/video/4-basic-types-of-modulation-effects-you-can-use-in-a-mix/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">flanger</a>, and oscilloscope. [38] => <p>If you’re looking to fill some holes in your plugin library, this is a great place to start. [39] => <p><strong><a href="https://www.meldaproduction.com/MFreeFXBundle" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download the MFreeFXBundle</a></strong> [40] => <h2>6. Flux BitterSweet</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33602" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/flux-bittersweet-free-vst-plugin-300x233.jpg" alt="Flux BitterSweet" width="340" height="264" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/flux-bittersweet-free-vst-plugin-300x233.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/flux-bittersweet-free-vst-plugin-200x156.jpg 200w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/flux-bittersweet-free-vst-plugin-400x311.jpg 400w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/flux-bittersweet-free-vst-plugin.jpg 450w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [41] => <p>BitterSweet is among the best transient shapers out there. It can produce results on par with studio mainstays like SPL’s Transient Designer and Waves’ Trans-X. [42] => <p>This simple plugin can achieve a wide variety of effects. Turn the knob to the right to <a href="https://theproaudiofiles.com/video/how-to-enhance-drum-transients-in-a-mix/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">add punch to drums</a>, enhance the pluck of an acoustic guitar, or boost the consonants in a vocal performance. Turn the knob to the left to soften tracks and push them back in the soundstage. [43] => <p><strong><a href="http://www.fluxhome.com/products/freewares/bittersweet-v3" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download Flux BitterSweet</a></strong> [44] => <h2>7. iZotope Vinyl</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33605" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-vinyl-free-vst-plugins-300x208.jpg" alt="iZotope Vinyl—another one of my favorite free VST plugins!" width="340" height="236" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-vinyl-free-vst-plugins-300x208.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-vinyl-free-vst-plugins-200x139.jpg 200w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-vinyl-free-vst-plugins-400x278.jpg 400w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-vinyl-free-vst-plugins.jpg 540w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [45] => <p>Sometimes a little crackle is a good thing. [46] => <p>Vinyl will make tracks sound like they’re being played on a turntable. You can vary the intensity of the effect by controlling the volume of different types of noise, the degree of wear and tear, and the decade your sound is from. The results range from subtle filtering to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOiFt47CsXo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Edison phonograph</a>. [47] => <p>This plugin is great for special effects, like filtering down a vocal or making an intro sound tiny. [48] => <p><strong><a href="https://www.izotope.com/en/products/create-and-design/vinyl.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download iZotope Vinyl</a></strong> [49] => <h2>Moving Beyond Free Plugins: My Favorite Plugins</h2> <p>I hope these 7 free plugins help you craft tracks that sound fresh and unique. [50] => <p>If you’re looking to dive deeper, I also put together a list of 5 plugins I use on every mix. If you’re wondering which plugins I recommend, download the list below to make sure you’ve got my top tools for the job. [51] => <div style="border: 2px solid red; padding: 20px; text-align: center; font-size: 20px;"><strong><a style="color: #5a5a5e;" href="http://behindthespeakers.com/5-plugins-pdf-tpaf/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Discover the 5 plugins I use on (almost) every mix <span style="color: red;">(free PDF)</span></a></strong></div> <hr /> <h2>Bonus: 3 More Free Plugins for Mixing</h2> <div class="arve wp-block-nextgenthemes-arve arve-hover-effect-none" data-mode="lazyload" data-oembed="1" data-provider="youtube" id="arve-youtube-qr5c9wy7d0k64261a53af937300162637" data-reset-after-played data-fullscreen="disabled" data-volume="100"> <span class="arve-inner"><br /> <span class="arve-embed arve-embed--has-aspect-ratio" style="aspect-ratio: 610 / 343"><br /> <span class="arve-ar" style="padding-top:56.229508%"></span><noscript class="arve-noscript"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen class="arve-iframe fitvidsignore" data-arve="arve-youtube-qr5c9wy7d0k64261a53af937300162637" data-src-no-ap="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Qr5C9WY7d0k?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=0&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="0" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-presentation" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Qr5C9WY7d0k?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=1&enablejsapi=1" title="3 Free Plugins I Use in Every Mix"></iframe><br /> </noscript><img decoding="async" alt="3 Free Plugins I Use in Every Mix" src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Qr5C9WY7d0k/hqdefault.jpg" srcset="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Qr5C9WY7d0k/mqdefault.jpg 320w, https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Qr5C9WY7d0k/hqdefault.jpg 480w, https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Qr5C9WY7d0k/sddefault.jpg 640w, https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Qr5C9WY7d0k/maxresdefault.jpg 1280w" class="arve-thumbnail" loading="lazy" width="480" height="360"> [52] => <h5 class="arve-title"> 3 Free Plugins I Use in Every Mix<br /> </h5> <p><button role="button" type="button" class="arve-play-btn arve-play-btn--youtube" data-target="#arve-youtube-qr5c9wy7d0k64261a53af937300162637" aria-label="Play video"><br /> <svg class="arve-play-svg arve-play-svg--youtube" focusable="false" aria-hidden="true" width="68" viewBox="0 0 68 48" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"> <path fill="#1f1f1e" fill-opacity="0.81" d="m .66,37.62 c 0,0 .66,4.70 2.70,6.77 2.58,2.71 5.98,2.63 7.49,2.91 5.43,.52 23.10,.68 23.12,.68 .00,-1.3e-5 14.29,-0.02 23.81,-0.71 1.32,-0.15 4.22,-0.17 6.81,-2.89 2.03,-2.07 2.70,-6.77 2.70,-6.77 0,0 .67,-5.52 .67,-11.04 l 0,-5.17 c 0,-5.52 -0.67,-11.04 -0.67,-11.04 0,0 -0.66,-4.70 -2.70,-6.77 C 62.03,.86 59.13,.84 57.80,.69 48.28,0 34.00,0 34.00,0 33.97,0 19.69,0 10.18,.69 8.85,.84 5.95,.86 3.36,3.58 1.32,5.65 .66,10.35 .66,10.35 c 0,0 -0.55,4.50 -0.66,9.45 l 0,8.36 c .10,4.94 .66,9.45 .66,9.45 z"></path> <path fill="#fff" d="m 26.96,13.67 18.37,9.62 -18.37,9.55 -0.00,-19.17 z" ></path> <path fill="#ccc" d="M 45.02,23.46 45.32,23.28 26.96,13.67 43.32,24.34 45.02,23.46 z" ></path> </svg> [53] => <p></button> [54] => <p></span> [55] => <p></span><br /> <script type="application/ld+json">{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@id":"https:\/\/theproaudiofiles.com\/free-plugins\/#arve-youtube-qr5c9wy7d0k64261a53af937300162637","type":"VideoObject","embedURL":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Qr5C9WY7d0k?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=1&enablejsapi=1","name":"3 Free Plugins I Use in Every Mix","thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/Qr5C9WY7d0k\/hqdefault.jpg","uploadDate":"2017-06-24T10:36:35+00:00","author":"Pro Audio Files","description":"It\u2019s the end of the month, and your bank account is empty\u2026 ...again. Oops. And as much as you might feel like buying that new Waves plugin\u2026 (You\u2019ve had your eye on it for months, right?) It\u2019s probably not a good idea. But if you're still looking to expand your plugin library, don't worry. Sometimes,"}</script> </div> [56] => )
Chosen Position: 17
<p>The truth?</p>
Chosen Position: 34
<p>Keep an eye on Project Time, and you’ll train yourself to <a href="http://behindthespeakers.com/finish-next-mix-half-time/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mix faster and more efficiently</a>. It’s also an invaluable tool if you bill by the hour!</p>
Related Articles
Array ( [0] => <p>It’s the end of the month, and your bank account is empty… [1] => <p>…again. [2] => <p>Oops. [3] => <p>And as much as you might feel like buying that new Waves plugin… [4] => <p>(You’ve had your eye on it for <em>months</em>, right?) [5] => <p>It’s probably not a good idea. [6] => <p>But if you’re still looking to expand your plugin library, don’t worry. [7] => <p>Sometimes, the best things in life are free… [8] => <p>Here are 7 of my favorite free plugins. Each of them offers something new and unique (no boring EQs or compressors). Download them all to extend your sonic palette and ultimately, craft better-sounding tracks. [9] => <p>And if you’re looking to dive deeper, I also put together a list of five plugins I use on every mix. If you’re wondering which plugins I recommend, download the list below to make sure you’ve got my top tools for the job. [10] => <div style="border: 2px solid red; padding: 20px; text-align: center; font-size: 20px;"><strong><a style="color: #5a5a5e;" href="http://behindthespeakers.com/5-plugins-pdf-tpaf/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Discover the 5 plugins I use on (almost) every mix <span style="color: red;">(free PDF)</span></a></strong></div> <h2>1. iZotope Neutrino</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33604 size-medium" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-neutrino-190x300.jpg" alt="iZotope Neutrino—one of my favorite free VST plugins" width="190" height="300" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-neutrino-190x300.jpg 190w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-neutrino-127x200.jpg 127w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-neutrino.jpg 319w" sizes="(max-width: 190px) 100vw, 190px" /> [11] => <p>Neutrino is the baby brother of <a href="https://theproaudiofiles.com/video/tips-for-using-izotope-neutron-for-multi-buss-mixing/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Neutron</a>—iZotope’s newest channel-strip plugin. While Neutron has a number of innovative features, Neutrino spins off the best of them. [12] => <p>Neutrino tames undesirable resonances caused by poor room acoustics, cheap gear, and heavy-handed processing. iZotope calls the effect “spectral shaping,” and it can sound similar to gentle, low-ratio <a href="http://behindthespeakers.com/multiband-compression-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">multiband compression</a>. This can make tracks sound smoother and more polished—like sanding the rough edges off a freshly cut piece of wood. I find Neutrino particularly useful on electric guitar tracks, which often have lots of harsh resonances. [13] => <p><strong><a href="https://www.izotope.com/en/products/mix/neutrino.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download iZotope Neutrino</a></strong> [14] => <h2>2. Voxengo SPAN</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33607" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/voxengo-span-300x219.jpg" alt="Voxengo SPAN" width="340" height="248" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/voxengo-span-300x219.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/voxengo-span-200x146.jpg 200w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/voxengo-span-400x292.jpg 400w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/voxengo-span.jpg 849w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [15] => <p>People say “don’t mix with your eyes.” [16] => <p><em>Meh.</em> [17] => <p>The truth? [18] => <p>Tools that provide visual feedback, when used properly, <em>can</em> help you make better mixing decisions. [19] => <div class="ad content-ad"><span>ADVERTISEMENT</span><div id="div-gpt-ad-1516673860578-0" style="width:300px; height:250px;"></div><script>googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1516673860578-0'); });</script></div> <p>A <a href="http://behindthespeakers.com/spectrum-analyzers-supercharge-mixes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">spectrum analyzer</a> is one of these tools. It plots the frequencies of sounds out on a graph, which allows you to “see” what tracks are comprised of. [20] => <p>SPAN is my favorite spectrum analyzer. You can control the ballistics and response of its graph, which makes it flexible enough for a wide variety of tasks. You can even route multiple tracks into SPAN and compare their frequency content. [21] => <p><strong><a href="http://www.voxengo.com/product/span/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download Voxengo SPAN</a></strong> [22] => <p>(P.S. Voxengo has a few other free VST plugins. They’re worth checking out too, but SPAN is my favorite.) [23] => <h2>3. Brainworx bx_solo</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33601" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/brainworx-bx-solo-300x73.jpg" alt="Brainworx bx_solo" width="340" height="82" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/brainworx-bx-solo-300x73.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/brainworx-bx-solo-200x49.jpg 200w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/brainworx-bx-solo-400x97.jpg 400w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/brainworx-bx-solo.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [24] => <p>Bx_solo is a no-frills, stereo-imaging plugin. While it’s the least sexy of this bunch, it can still be pretty useful. [25] => <p>I like to add bx_solo to my mix bus. While I rarely push the stereo width past 100%, collapsing it to zero is an easy way to check for mono compatibility. The mid and side solo buttons are also useful. It’s great to have this one around—you never know when you might need it! [26] => <p><strong><a href="http://www.brainworx-music.de/en/plugins/bx_solo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download Brainworx bx_solo</a></strong> [27] => <h2>4. HOFA 4U Project Time</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33603" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/hofa-4u-project-time-300x153.jpg" alt="HOFA 4U Project Time" width="340" height="173" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/hofa-4u-project-time.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/hofa-4u-project-time-200x102.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [28] => <p>Mixing is a race against time. [29] => <p>The more time you spend on a mix, the more attached you become to what it sounds like. This makes it progressively harder to make good mixing decisions. Given enough time, even the <em>worst</em> mix will start to sound decent. [30] => <p>This is one reason <a href="http://behindthespeakers.com/demoitis-destroying-mixes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">I recommend mixing quickly and impulsively</a>. You’ll get to the finish line faster, retain more objectivity, and ultimately, craft better mixes. [31] => <p>The first step towards more efficient mixing is to track how much time you spend doing it. Without this information, it’s easy to get lost in a black hole of endless tweaking. [32] => <p>Project Time makes this easy. Add it to a track, and it will start counting. The timer automatically stops when you close the session, and starts when you open it up again. [33] => <p>Keep an eye on Project Time, and you’ll train yourself to <a href="http://behindthespeakers.com/finish-next-mix-half-time/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mix faster and more efficiently</a>. It’s also an invaluable tool if you bill by the hour! [34] => <p><strong><a href="https://hofa-plugins.de/en/plugins/4u/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download Project Time</a></strong> [35] => <div class="ad content-ad content-ad-2"><span>ADVERTISEMENT</span></div> <script> window.addEventListener("load", () => { if(window.innerWidth > 767) return; window.setTimeout(() => { var ta = jQuery.get(aqvars.ajaxurl, { action: "tpaf_adrotate", group: 1, aid: 22 }); ta.then(function(response) { jQuery(".content-ad-2").append(response); }); }, 0); }); </script> <h2>5. MeldaProduction MFreeFXBundle</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33606" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/meldaproduction-mfreeeffectsbundle-300x245.jpg" alt="MeldaProduction MFreeFXBundle" width="340" height="277" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/meldaproduction-mfreeeffectsbundle-300x245.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/meldaproduction-mfreeeffectsbundle-200x163.jpg 200w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/meldaproduction-mfreeeffectsbundle-400x326.jpg 400w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/meldaproduction-mfreeeffectsbundle.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [36] => <p>MeldaProduction makes some great plugins. They’ve earned the praise of many notable engineers, including mastering guru Ian Shepard. [37] => <p>The MFreeFXBundle contains 30 free VST plugins. They range from workhorse tools like a compressor and EQ, to less common effects like a ring modulator, <a href="https://theproaudiofiles.com/video/4-basic-types-of-modulation-effects-you-can-use-in-a-mix/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">flanger</a>, and oscilloscope. [38] => <p>If you’re looking to fill some holes in your plugin library, this is a great place to start. [39] => <p><strong><a href="https://www.meldaproduction.com/MFreeFXBundle" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download the MFreeFXBundle</a></strong> [40] => <h2>6. Flux BitterSweet</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33602" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/flux-bittersweet-free-vst-plugin-300x233.jpg" alt="Flux BitterSweet" width="340" height="264" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/flux-bittersweet-free-vst-plugin-300x233.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/flux-bittersweet-free-vst-plugin-200x156.jpg 200w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/flux-bittersweet-free-vst-plugin-400x311.jpg 400w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/flux-bittersweet-free-vst-plugin.jpg 450w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [41] => <p>BitterSweet is among the best transient shapers out there. It can produce results on par with studio mainstays like SPL’s Transient Designer and Waves’ Trans-X. [42] => <p>This simple plugin can achieve a wide variety of effects. Turn the knob to the right to <a href="https://theproaudiofiles.com/video/how-to-enhance-drum-transients-in-a-mix/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">add punch to drums</a>, enhance the pluck of an acoustic guitar, or boost the consonants in a vocal performance. Turn the knob to the left to soften tracks and push them back in the soundstage. [43] => <p><strong><a href="http://www.fluxhome.com/products/freewares/bittersweet-v3" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download Flux BitterSweet</a></strong> [44] => <h2>7. iZotope Vinyl</h2> <p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33605" src="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-vinyl-free-vst-plugins-300x208.jpg" alt="iZotope Vinyl—another one of my favorite free VST plugins!" width="340" height="236" srcset="https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-vinyl-free-vst-plugins-300x208.jpg 300w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-vinyl-free-vst-plugins-200x139.jpg 200w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-vinyl-free-vst-plugins-400x278.jpg 400w, https://theproaudiofiles.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/izotope-vinyl-free-vst-plugins.jpg 540w" sizes="(max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px" /> [45] => <p>Sometimes a little crackle is a good thing. [46] => <p>Vinyl will make tracks sound like they’re being played on a turntable. You can vary the intensity of the effect by controlling the volume of different types of noise, the degree of wear and tear, and the decade your sound is from. The results range from subtle filtering to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOiFt47CsXo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Edison phonograph</a>. [47] => <p>This plugin is great for special effects, like filtering down a vocal or making an intro sound tiny. [48] => <p><strong><a href="https://www.izotope.com/en/products/create-and-design/vinyl.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">➥ Download iZotope Vinyl</a></strong> [49] => <h2>Moving Beyond Free Plugins: My Favorite Plugins</h2> <p>I hope these 7 free plugins help you craft tracks that sound fresh and unique. [50] => <p>If you’re looking to dive deeper, I also put together a list of 5 plugins I use on every mix. If you’re wondering which plugins I recommend, download the list below to make sure you’ve got my top tools for the job. [51] => <div style="border: 2px solid red; padding: 20px; text-align: center; font-size: 20px;"><strong><a style="color: #5a5a5e;" href="http://behindthespeakers.com/5-plugins-pdf-tpaf/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Discover the 5 plugins I use on (almost) every mix <span style="color: red;">(free PDF)</span></a></strong></div> <hr /> <h2>Bonus: 3 More Free Plugins for Mixing</h2> <div class="arve wp-block-nextgenthemes-arve arve-hover-effect-none" data-mode="lazyload" data-oembed="1" data-provider="youtube" id="arve-youtube-qr5c9wy7d0k64261a53ba962630940793" data-reset-after-played data-fullscreen="disabled" data-volume="100"> <span class="arve-inner"><br /> <span class="arve-embed arve-embed--has-aspect-ratio" style="aspect-ratio: 610 / 343"><br /> <span class="arve-ar" style="padding-top:56.229508%"></span><noscript class="arve-noscript"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen class="arve-iframe fitvidsignore" data-arve="arve-youtube-qr5c9wy7d0k64261a53ba962630940793" data-src-no-ap="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Qr5C9WY7d0k?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=0&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="0" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-presentation" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Qr5C9WY7d0k?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=1&enablejsapi=1" title="3 Free Plugins I Use in Every Mix"></iframe><br /> </noscript><img decoding="async" alt="3 Free Plugins I Use in Every Mix" src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Qr5C9WY7d0k/hqdefault.jpg" srcset="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Qr5C9WY7d0k/mqdefault.jpg 320w, https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Qr5C9WY7d0k/hqdefault.jpg 480w, https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Qr5C9WY7d0k/sddefault.jpg 640w, https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Qr5C9WY7d0k/maxresdefault.jpg 1280w" class="arve-thumbnail" loading="lazy" width="480" height="360"> [52] => <h5 class="arve-title"> 3 Free Plugins I Use in Every Mix<br /> </h5> <p><button role="button" type="button" class="arve-play-btn arve-play-btn--youtube" data-target="#arve-youtube-qr5c9wy7d0k64261a53ba962630940793" aria-label="Play video"><br /> <svg class="arve-play-svg arve-play-svg--youtube" focusable="false" aria-hidden="true" width="68" viewBox="0 0 68 48" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"> <path fill="#1f1f1e" fill-opacity="0.81" d="m .66,37.62 c 0,0 .66,4.70 2.70,6.77 2.58,2.71 5.98,2.63 7.49,2.91 5.43,.52 23.10,.68 23.12,.68 .00,-1.3e-5 14.29,-0.02 23.81,-0.71 1.32,-0.15 4.22,-0.17 6.81,-2.89 2.03,-2.07 2.70,-6.77 2.70,-6.77 0,0 .67,-5.52 .67,-11.04 l 0,-5.17 c 0,-5.52 -0.67,-11.04 -0.67,-11.04 0,0 -0.66,-4.70 -2.70,-6.77 C 62.03,.86 59.13,.84 57.80,.69 48.28,0 34.00,0 34.00,0 33.97,0 19.69,0 10.18,.69 8.85,.84 5.95,.86 3.36,3.58 1.32,5.65 .66,10.35 .66,10.35 c 0,0 -0.55,4.50 -0.66,9.45 l 0,8.36 c .10,4.94 .66,9.45 .66,9.45 z"></path> <path fill="#fff" d="m 26.96,13.67 18.37,9.62 -18.37,9.55 -0.00,-19.17 z" ></path> <path fill="#ccc" d="M 45.02,23.46 45.32,23.28 26.96,13.67 43.32,24.34 45.02,23.46 z" ></path> </svg> [53] => <p></button> [54] => <p></span> [55] => <p></span><br /> <script type="application/ld+json">{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@id":"https:\/\/theproaudiofiles.com\/free-plugins\/#arve-youtube-qr5c9wy7d0k64261a53ba962630940793","type":"VideoObject","embedURL":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Qr5C9WY7d0k?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=1&enablejsapi=1","name":"3 Free Plugins I Use in Every Mix","thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/Qr5C9WY7d0k\/hqdefault.jpg","uploadDate":"2017-06-24T10:36:35+00:00","author":"Pro Audio Files","description":"It\u2019s the end of the month, and your bank account is empty\u2026 ...again. Oops. And as much as you might feel like buying that new Waves plugin\u2026 (You\u2019ve had your eye on it for months, right?) It\u2019s probably not a good idea. But if you're still looking to expand your plugin library, don't worry. Sometimes,"}</script> </div> [56] => )
Chosen Position: 17
<p>The truth?</p>
Chosen Position: 34
<p>Keep an eye on Project Time, and you’ll train yourself to <a href="http://behindthespeakers.com/finish-next-mix-half-time/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mix faster and more efficiently</a>. It’s also an invaluable tool if you bill by the hour!</p>