The best plugins and software to inspire creativity and refine your mix.
Our Top Picks
Check out our latest gear reviews and recommendations — trusted picks for every studio setup
Loopcloud
- Why producers love Loopcloud – massive library of royalty-free samples with AI-powered search, making it easy to find the perfect sound fast
- Key strengths and a few trade-offs – endless loops, one-shots, and presets plus cloud storage and DAW integration, though it requires a subscription to access full features
- Best suited for modern producers – ideal for electronic music creators, beatmakers, and anyone who wants quick inspiration and high-quality sounds without building a sample library from scratch
FabFilter Pro-Q 4
- Why producers trust FabFilter Pro-Q 4 – industry-standard EQ plugin known for its pristine sound quality, intuitive workflow, and powerful mixing features
- Key strengths and a few trade-offs – dynamic EQ, surround support, and AI-powered suggestions, though it’s premium-priced compared to basic EQs
- Best suited for mixing and mastering – perfect for producers, engineers, and sound designers who need surgical precision and creative flexibility in their EQ
U-He Diva
- Why producers love Diva – authentic analog synth emulation with multiple legendary circuit models, delivering warmth and depth that rivals hardware.
- Key strengths and a few trade-offs – versatile oscillators, rich filters, and endless presets for basses, leads, and pads, though higher CPU usage in Divine mode can be demanding.
- Best suited for producers – ideal for house, techno, cinematic, and anyone who wants classic analog tones in the box without investing in vintage hardware
iZotope Ozone 11 Standard
- Why producers trust Ozone 11 Standard – AI-powered mastering suite that combines intelligent workflow with pro-grade modules for polished, release-ready sound.
- Key strengths and a few trade-offs – Master Assistant, Maximizer, and new modules like Stabilizer and Transient/Sustain offer incredible flexibility, though it’s pricier and can be CPU-intensive.
- Best suited for mastering – ideal for producers and engineers who want professional loudness, clarity, and balance without needing deep mastering expertise.
All Plugin & Software Reviews
All our plugin and software reviews in one place — discover the tools that power modern music production.
-
MT Power Drum Kit 2 Review: Free Acoustic Drums with Realistic Punch
When you need realistic acoustic drums without spending a dime, MT Power Drum Kit 2 has been the go-to free plugin for years. It delivers a tight, punchy drum kit sampled from a professional studio recording — complete with built-in grooves, fills, and a humanized feel. While it doesn’t have the deep customization of premium…
-
OTT Review: Free Multiband Compressor That Defined Modern EDM
Few free plugins have had as much cultural impact on electronic music as OTT by Xfer Records. This legendary multiband compressor is based on Ableton Live’s preset of the same name, but Xfer turned it into a standalone plugin available to everyone — free of charge. OTT delivers extreme upwards/downwards multiband compression that brings out…
-
Surge XT Review: Free Open-Source Synth with Limitless Possibilities
When it comes to free synthesizers, few offer the depth and versatility of Surge XT. An evolution of the original Surge synth, Surge XT has become a powerhouse in the open-source community — a fully featured digital synth that combines multiple synthesis engines, deep modulation, and high-quality effects, all in a free package. From lush…
-
Slate Digital Fresh Air Review: Free High-End Exciter for Bright, Modern Mixes
When your mix feels flat or lacks sparkle, Fresh Air by Slate Digital is one of the quickest ways to bring it to life. Released as a free plugin, Fresh Air has gained a reputation as a “secret weapon” exciter — delivering smooth high-end lift, airy presence, and modern sheen without the harshness that EQ…
-
Sample Magic Review: Pro-Quality Sounds for Electronic Producers
Sample Magic has been a trusted name in the sample pack world for over a decade. Known for their high-quality house, techno, and electronic-focused packs, they’ve built a reputation as one of the most reliable resources for pro-level sounds. From detailed drum hits to lush synth loops and atmospheric textures, Sample Magic packs are a…
-
Vital Review: Free Wavetable Synth with Premium Power
Vital has quickly become one of the most popular free synths in modern music production. Often called “the free Serum,” Vital delivers a professional-grade wavetable synthesis engine with stunning sound design capabilities — and it doesn’t cost a thing to get started. From evolving pads and gritty basses to crisp leads and atmospheric textures, Vital…
-
Youlean Loudness Meter Review: Free Loudness Monitoring for Mixing & Mastering
Youlean Loudness Meter is a free plugin designed to measure the loudness of your tracks with precision. It has become a go-to tool for mixing and mastering engineers who need to ensure their music hits target loudness standards for streaming, broadcast, or film. Despite being free, it competes with premium meters thanks to its accuracy,…
-
LABS by Spitfire Audio Review: Free World-Class Sample Instruments
LABS by Spitfire Audio is one of the most impressive free plugin platforms available today. Known for its high-quality sampled instruments and constantly expanding library, LABS gives producers access to professional-grade sounds without spending a dime. From lush strings and cinematic pianos to experimental textures and unique percussion, LABS has become a staple for film…
-
Ozone Imager Review: Free Stereo Width Plugin for Mixing & Mastering
Ozone Imager is a free stereo imaging plugin from iZotope, designed to give producers precise control over the width of their tracks and mixes. Known for its clean interface and powerful widening algorithms, it’s a favorite for creating depth and space without sacrificing mono compatibility. Despite being free, Ozone Imager includes features pulled straight from…
-
Melodics Review (2025): Turn Practice Into a Game for Pads, Keys & Drums
Melodics is practice software designed to make repetitive skill-building fun. Supporting MIDI keyboards, pad controllers, and electronic drums, it uses guided lessons and instant feedback to help musicians develop rhythm, timing, and finger dexterity. By turning practice into a game, Melodics motivates you to stick with consistent training — one of the hardest parts of…
Looking for more gear categories? Visit our full reviews hub