Vember Audio Surge Software Synthesizer

Vember Audio Surge Software Synthesizer 1

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u-he TyrellN6 Software Synthesizer

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u-he Zebralette

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Digital Suburban DEXED

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VCV Rack

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Full Bucket ModulAir

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## THE MOST DOWNLOADED SOFTWARE SYNTHESIZER OF ALL TIME

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Synth1 is a VST & Audio Unit **software synthesizer** designed by Ichiro Toda – (戸田一郎). It is modeled after the iconic "[Clavia Nord Lead 2](https://whatgear.com/p/clavia-nord-lead-2-synthesizer)". Synth1 combines the common [sound synthesis method](https://producertools.net) of Subtractive & FM synthesis. It’s one of the most downloaded soft synth in the world, some say it sounds amazing, and it’s totally free !

Synth1 combines the common **sound synthesis method of subtractive synthesis with FM synthesis**, (the first oscillator have a parameter for frequency modulation). Structurally, the software behaves as though it were a modular analog synthesizer.

synth1 success is so huge that it is now the most **downloaded software synthesizer** of all times, attracting computer musicians all around the world and gathering a massive community around it. It is therefore easy to find many sound banks, skins, tutorials and helpful advices for Synth1.

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### SYNTH1 FREE DOWNLOAD
- [Win 32 VST V 1.13 beta3](https://daichilab.sakura.ne.jp/softsynth/index.html)	(0.6 Mb)	Release: Fri, 11 Jul 2014
- [Win 64 VST V 1.13 beta3](https://daichilab.sakura.ne.jp/softsynth/index.html)	(0.6 Mb)	Release: Fri, 11 Jul 2014
- [Mac OSX VST V 1.13 beta8](https://daichilab.sakura.ne.jp/softsynth/index.html)	(0.6 Mb)	Release: Fri, 15 May 2015
- [Mac OSX AU V 1.13 beta8](https://daichilab.sakura.ne.jp/softsynth/index.html)	(1.2 Mb)	Release: Fri, 15 May 2015

### SYNTH1 SPECIFICATIONS
- 3 oscillators, 1 FM modulation, 1 ring modulation and synchronization, and 1 sub-oscillator. Osc 1 can operate as detuned supersaw.
- One filter section, with distortion. Four filter types: two high-pass, one low-pass, and a band-pass filter.
- Two assignable LFOs, which can be synchronized to a host tempo.
- An arpeggiator which can be synchronized to a host tempo.
- Several built-in effects, including a tempo delay, distortion, phaser, and chorus/flanger.
- Polyphony, monophony, and legato voices.
- Unison and portamento modes
- 32 notes polyphony
- Automation
- Low CPU usage[12]

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### Operating environment / restrictions

- Supported CPU: X86 / x64 CPU that supports SSE2. 
- Supported OS: Windows XP, Windows Vista 32Bit, Windows7 (developed with Windows Vista HP sp2) Not confirmed except left.
- Plug-in format: VSTi2.0
- Supported host: Reaper, Abelton Live, SONAR 6 LE, other than the left


Synth1 Software Synthesizer

Synth1 By Ichiro Toda Software Synthesizer 1

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Matt Tytel Helm

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Charlatan

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DiscoDSP OB-Xd

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Pekka Kauppila Mausynth

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Music Tech

10 Best Free Software Synthesizers [2021]

### Sampled Instruments

With the addition of **Noire, Stradivari, Mallet Flux, Mysteria, and Session Guitarist**, the sampled instruments see a major improvement this time around. 

Its tendency to deliver two full paradigms is the fascinating thing about these tools. For one, Mallet Flux provides some truly inspirational mallet resources that sound utterly breathtaking. They are sampled meticulously and have a degree of polish that looks fantastic. Add a mix GUI that allows each instrument to playback triggered rhythm patterns, and you have an extremely powerful engine to produce accurate mallet patterns of music.

![Native Instruments Komplete 13 Ultimate 1](https://whatgear-pictures.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/products/native_instruments_komplete_13_ultimate_1_7a1bea82b9.jpg)

For the other sampled instruments, this remains true. Noire, on its own, will be an outstanding piano instrument. Samples and dynamic layers are worth 16 GB, which sounds rich and playable. Attach the option to put between the hammers and the strings a felt dampener, and now you can get a really mellow piano sound that really sits down in the mix. Not only does the particle engine apply 'pads' to the piano, but it also adds rhythmic textures and swirling motion behind the piano in such a way that you want to try every preset.

Session Guitarist instruments are very much worth taking in the time it takes to master them. The guitar loops given are diverse, and placing the guitar in 'melody mode' really gives you the versatility to get guitar tracks that are almost indistinguishable from the actual player. Giving access to many different guitar articulations by hitting a key switch really helps you to pull out the natural tone of the samples and make it very compelling.

I find Mysteria enjoyable to make vocal textures, but I'm not fully sure that I want to set aside 30gb of room for it. It obviously has a role in cinematic sound design, but I definitely categorize this one in the 'you already know if you need it' genre. 

The Stradivari Violin was genuinely inspirational. The size is massive, but this solo instrument was so fine that I immediately regretted not getting the whole quartet and splurging for the "Collector's Edition." Orchestra composers, if the other three pieces in this acoustic string set are just like the Stradivari Violin-this is the latest collection to be beaten.

### The Synthesizers

When it comes to the synths supported, there are a few nice ones to try out. Super 8 is a modern synth that has its own plugin instead of a touch or reactor synth. It has a very 'massive' sound for me, which makes sense because it uses its own combination of dual oscillators plus FM synthesis. I find the plugin easy to use (although it certainly has a reactor look at it) and the presets are sufficient. Modulation routing and mapping for the owners of Komplete Kontrol is well thought out and makes playing Super 8 with a well-equipped controller enjoyable and simple.

There are three updates to the 'playlist' and my main one is Butch Vig Drums. I was happy to write off BVD as something I wouldn't use as much as I already have a Lot of drum instruments-but BVD is something extraordinary. The combination of well-played and strong grooves with the synth/filter/actuated elements makes this a beautifully versatile instrument for fast modern development. It also looks fantastic (I mean, we don't have to think about it, but... it does!)

Synth patch expansions give you a lot more use out of the reactor, Big X, and Battery 4. It was nice to pull up Battery, a plugin I haven't been exploring for a while, and hear Indigo Dust kits incorporated and give a fresh sound to a plugin that didn't get a lot of use for me.

Straylight and Pharlight all load up into Kontakt and are outstanding additions to the lineup. Granular instruments usually excel at producing haunting textures and atmospheres, and these two are no different. Although they both have a very distinctive voice, I find Straylight to be unlike anything I've ever heard before. Macro controls made it easy to modify the ambient textures in real-time and this was much more 'playable' than many other 'ambient libraries.' I will certainly see those who work in film and television scoring get a lot out of this instrument.

### Conclusion

The resources of Komplete 13 are genuinely unique and outstanding additions to the lineup. As far as value is concerned, I certainly believe that they are deserving of the upgrade (I have not always felt that in my 13 versions of purchasing Komplete software updates). From practical sample libraries to world synths, there's everything for all with Komplete 13. Check out our separate Guitar Rig 6 review, too!

Native Instruments Komplete 13

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Native Instruments Komplete 13 Ultimate

Native Instruments Komplete 13 Ultimate 1

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Guitar

Review

Native Instruments Komplete 13 Review

As the old-school gui suggests, Molot is full of personality.

Molot is for you if you want a compressor that's really going to paint your track.

Especially if you want to sound filthy. At applying grit, Molot excels.

VladgSound Molot

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Let's claim there's a frequency that really disturbs you, but just a little bit of the time.
It's OK for most tracks. But it becomes a problem every now and then.
Nova is like an EQ put together with a compressor.

Tokyo Dawn Labs TDR Nova

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Klanghelm DC1A2

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iZotope Vinyl

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TAL-Togu Audio Line TAL Reverb II

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Variety Of Sound Boot EQ MKII

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Valhalla DSP ValhallaFreqEcho

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Camel Audio CamelCrusher Distortion Plugin

Camel Audio Camelcrusher Distortion Plugin 1

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Illformed Glitch 2

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Glitchmachines Hysteresis

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Brain Control Tunefish

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Instruments

MIDI

20 Best Free Audio Plugins  [2021]

Steven Slate SSD5 is a virtual drum instrument that offers a wide range of realistic and expressive drum sounds for music production. It is one of the most highly regarded drum virtual instruments on the market, used by professional music producers and engineers worldwide.

One of the standout features of SSD5 is the high-quality drum samples it uses. These samples are recorded from real drums using top-of-the-line microphones and preamps, and offer a level of realism and expressiveness that is hard to achieve with other virtual drum instruments. SSD5 includes a wide range of velocity layers, allowing the drums to respond naturally to the velocity of your playing, adding even more realism and expression to the sound. This makes SSD5 a strong choice for those who are looking for professional-quality drum sounds for their music.

In addition to its high-quality samples, SSD5 offers a wide range of customization options. You can choose from a variety of drum kits, ranging from classic vintage kits to modern electronic sounds. You can also adjust the individual drum and cymbal parameters, such as tuning, muffling, and damping, to get the exact sound you want. This allows you to fine-tune the sound of your drums to perfectly match the rest of your mix.

One of the new features of SSD5 is the "Drum Mixer" module, which allows you to fine-tune the balance of the drum sounds in your mix. You can adjust the levels and panning of each drum and cymbal individually, as well as apply effects such as EQ, compression, and reverb. This gives you complete control over the sound of your drums, and allows you to easily match them to the rest of your mix.

Another useful feature of SSD5 is the "Drum Replacer" module, which allows you to easily replace or augment the drums in an existing audio track. This can be useful for fixing mistakes in a recorded drum performance, or for adding additional layers to the drums for a bigger sound.

One of the key advantages of using a virtual drum instrument like SSD5 is the convenience it offers. Instead of having to record and mic a drum set, you can simply load up the sounds you need and start playing. This can save a lot of time and hassle, and allows you to focus on the creative aspect of music production rather than the technical details.

In terms of compatibility, SSD5 is available as a plug-in for popular digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Pro Tools, Logic, and Ableton Live. It is also available in a standalone version, which allows you to use it without a DAW. This makes it easy to integrate into your existing music production setup.

One potential downside of SSD5 is its price. It is a fairly expensive virtual drum instrument, which may be a concern for some users. However, considering the high-quality samples and wide range of customization options it offers, it may be worth the investment for those who are serious about getting professional-quality drum sounds.

Overall, Steven Slate SSD5 is a highly regarded virtual drum instrument that offers a wide range of realistic and expressive drum sounds. Its high-quality samples, customization options, and convenience make it a strong choice for those who are looking for professional-quality drum sounds for their music. Its price may be a concern for some users, but for those who are willing to invest in their music production setup, it is definitely worth considering.


Steven Slate Drums 5

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Steven Slate SSD5 Review

One of the coolest things about Pigments 4 is its dual oscillator design. This means you can use two different wavetables at the same time, or stack them up for even more complex and rich sound textures. For example, you could use a sawtooth wavetable for the main lead sound and a square wavetable for the sub bass, creating a full and punchy sound that would be difficult to achieve with a single oscillator. This type of sound design can be heard in tracks like "The Middle" by Zedd, Maren Morris, and Grey, where Pigments 4 was used to create the main lead sound. And if that's not enough, Pigments 4 also has a bunch of virtual analog and wavetable synthesis modes, as well as all sorts of effects, filters, and modulation options. Plus, it has an awesome arpeggiator and loads of presets to get you started, and you can even save your own custom presets. Talk about a virtual synthesizer dream come true!

Pigments 4 is also super flexible. It can be used in all sorts of different ways, from creating mind-bending soundscapes to more traditional synth sounds. For example, you could use Pigments 4 to create a complex, evolving pad sound by layering multiple wavetables and using the built-in effects and modulation options. This type of sound design can be heard in the track "Shelter" by Porter Robinson and Madeon, where Pigments 4 was used to create the pad sounds. Or you could use it to create more classic synth sounds, like a warm and punchy bass or a bright and cutting lead. And if you're a control freak (like me), you'll love the customizable interface and workflow that lets you tailor Pigments 4 to your exact specifications. This means you can set it up in a way that makes the most sense for your workflow and production style, making it easier and more efficient to use.

In terms of compatibility, Pigments 4 is available as a standalone application or as a plugin within other DAWs. It supports a wide range of audio file formats and includes a bunch of performance and workflow enhancements that make it easier and more efficient to use. This means you can use Pigments 4 in your preferred DAW, and you can import and export a variety of audio file formats, making it easy to integrate into your existing production setup.

Even famous electronic music producers and DJs are raving about Pigments 4. DJ and producer Richie Hawtin called it "a truly inspiring and innovative instrument that has pushed the boundaries of sound design and synthesis to new heights." I mean, if it's good enough for Richie Hawtin, it's good enough for me (and probably you too). Hawtin has used Pigments 4 in his own productions, including the track "Dekmantel Radio 105" which showcases the software's impressive sound design capabilities.

Now, the one downside to Pigments 4 is its price. It's not the cheapest option out there, but considering all the features and flexibility it offers, it's definitely worth the investment for serious producers.

Comparing Pigments 4 to Pigments 3, it's clear that this is an excellent upgrade. While Pigments 3 was already an impressive wavetable synthesizer and virtual instrument, Pigments 4 builds upon its capabilities and adds even more features and improvements, making it an even more powerful and enjoyable tool for electronic music production. Its expanded synthesis capabilities, range of effects and filters, and improved interface make it even more fun and easy to use, and the performance and workflow enhancements increase efficiency and productivity.

In conclusion, Arturia Pigments 4 is an excellent wavetable synthesizer and virtual instrument that electronic music producers love. Its dual oscillator design, range of synthesis modes, and customizable interface make it a top choice for producers looking for a comprehensive and feature-rich synthesizer. Its flexibility and versatility can be heard in tracks by top producers like Zedd, Porter Robinson, and Madeon, and even legendary DJ Richie Hawtin is a fan. Sure, it might be a little pricey, but trust me, it's worth every penny for the amazing sounds and capabilities it provides.



Arturia Pigments 2 Wavetable/Granular Synthesizer

Arturia Pigments 2 Wavetable Granular Synthesizer 1

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Arturia Pigments 4 Review

AKAI's MPK Mini Plus is a compact and portable MIDI keyboard controller that offers a range of features for both on-the-go music production and studio use. The Mini Plus is an upgrade from the original MPK Mini, featuring 37 mini keys (compared to the Mini's 25) and a wider range of ports and features, including a sustain pedal input, full-size MIDI in and out DIN ports, and CV Clock I/O and CV pitch, mod, and gate output. This allows the Mini Plus to work as a standalone MIDI and CV controller, as well as in conjunction with computer-based software.

One of the standout features of the Mini Plus is its "2nd gen" dynamic keybed, which offers a level of responsiveness and playability that belies the size of the keyboard. The keys are pleasant to play, reacting well even to more complex playing styles, and the inclusion of three full octaves means that two-handed chord playing is possible. The Mini Plus also includes scale and chord modes that allow you to program chords to single notes and ensure you never play an off-key note.

In addition to its keyboard, the Mini Plus also includes a range of other controls, including an assignable X/Y joystick controller and eight assignable endless rotary knobs, which can be used to control a variety of parameters such as filters, panning, and automation. The Mini Plus also includes Transport controls and eight velocity-sensitive, backlit MPC drum pads that can be used for both drum playing and as program change and other MIDI CC triggers.

One potential downside of the Mini Plus is its joystick controller, which feels a bit flimsy and may be prone to damage during transport. However, this is a minor concern given the overall quality and functionality of the keyboard.

In terms of build quality, the Mini Plus is sturdily constructed and weighs just over 1kg, making it easy to carry around. It is powered and connects to data via USB, with a USB-B to USB-A cable included. While USB-C is becoming more widely adopted, the use of a USB-A cable is not a major issue, and the inclusion of a sustain pedal input and full-size MIDI ports means that the Mini Plus can easily be integrated into a variety of music production setups.

Overall, the AKAI MPK Mini Plus is a well-rounded and highly capable MIDI keyboard controller that offers a range of features for both on-the-go music production and studio use. Its responsive keys, wide range of controls, and compatibility with a variety of software and hardware make it a strong choice for musicians and producers looking for a portable and versatile controller.

Rating: 8/10

Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard

Akai Mpk Mini Laptop Production Keyboard 1

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AKAI MPK Mini Plus Review

Native Instruments Komplete 14 is a comprehensive software suite that offers a vast array of virtual instruments, effects, and samples for music production. It is an essential tool for any serious music producer, as it provides everything you need to create professional-quality music in one convenient package.

One of the standout features of Komplete 14 is the sheer number of instruments and effects it includes. There are over 50 virtual instruments, including pianos, keyboards, guitars, drums, and synthesizers, as well as a wide range of effects including EQs, compressors, reverb, and delays. Each instrument has been meticulously sampled and designed to offer a highly realistic and expressive sound.

One of the new additions to Komplete 14 is the "Elements" series, which includes five new instruments that focus on simplicity and ease of use. These instruments are perfect for beginners or those who just want to quickly sketch out ideas without getting bogged down in complex controls. The Elements series includes "Form", a powerful granular synthesizer; "Replika", a high-quality delay effect; "The Finger", a virtual finger-drumming instrument; "Solid Bus Comp", a classic compressor effect; and "Monark", a highly regarded monophonic synthesizer.

Another highlight of Komplete 14 is the inclusion of the "Kontakt 6" software, which is a powerful sample-based instrument that allows you to create your own virtual instruments by importing and manipulating audio samples. Kontakt 6 also includes a vast library of pre-made instruments and samples, ranging from classic drum machines to rare and exotic world instruments.

In addition to the virtual instruments and effects, Komplete 14 also includes a large collection of loops and samples. These can be used to add texture and depth to your tracks, or as the foundation for a new song. The loops and samples cover a wide range of genres and styles, making it easy to find something that fits your music.

One of the most convenient features of Komplete 14 is the "Komplete Kontrol" software, which allows you to easily browse and access all of the instruments and effects within the suite. The software integrates with Native Instruments' line of "Komplete Kontrol" keyboards, which have touch-sensitive pads and a high-quality keyboard for a more expressive and intuitive experience.

In terms of overall sound quality, Komplete 14 does not disappoint. The virtual instruments and effects all offer a high level of realism and expressiveness, and the samples and loops are top-notch. The user interface is also well designed and easy to navigate, making it easy to find and use the tools you need.

In addition to its wide range of virtual instruments and effects, Komplete 14 also includes a number of useful utilities and tools. These include the "Battery 4" drum sampler, the "Reaktor 6" modular synthesizer and effects processor, and the "Massive X" wavetable synthesizer. These tools are highly regarded in the music production community and offer a wide range of creative possibilities.

Another useful feature of Komplete 14 is the "Maschine 2" software, which allows you to create beats and patterns using a variety of virtual drum kits and synthesizers. The software integrates with Native Instruments' line of "Maschine" hardware controllers, which offer a tactile and intuitive way to create music.

In terms of compatibility, Komplete 14 is available for both Mac and Windows operating systems, and supports a wide range of audio interfaces and controllers. This makes it easy to integrate into your existing music production setup.

One potential downside of Komplete 14 is its price. It is one of the more expensive software suites on the market, which may be a concern for some users. However, considering the wide range of tools and features it offers, and the convenience of having everything in one place, it may be worth the investment for those who are serious about music production.

Overall, Native Instruments Komplete 14 is a comprehensive and powerful software suite that offers everything you need to create professional-quality music. With its wide range of virtual instruments, effects, and samples, as well as its useful utilities and tools, it is an essential tool for any serious music producer. Its high price may be a concern for some users, but its convenience and overall sound quality make it a strong choice for those who are willing to invest in their music production setup.

Native Instrument Komplete 14 Review

One of the biggest new features in Live 11 is the inclusion of MIDI and audio clips in the same view. This means you can see both your MIDI and audio clips on the same track, making it easier to see how everything fits together and making your workflow more efficient. Live 11 also adds a bunch of new devices and effects, including the incredible Wavetable synth, which is based on the same technology as the popular standalone software of the same name. Live 11 also adds a new sampler, a new EQ Eight, and a new compressor, all of which are super powerful and flexible. Live 11 also adds a bunch of new workflow and performance enhancements, including improved warping and timing, improved editing and arrangement, and improved automation.

Live 11 is also super flexible and can be used in all sorts of different ways, from creating electronic music to scoring films and video games. It's compatible with a wide range of audio file formats and can be used as a standalone application or as a plugin within other DAWs. Live 11 is also super stable and reliable, which is essential for any DAW, and it has a massive user base, which means you can find loads of tutorials and resources online if you get stuck.

One of the downsides to Live 11 is its price. It's not the cheapest option out there, but considering all the features and flexibility it offers, it's definitely worth the investment for serious producers. Live 11 is also available in a variety of different versions, including Lite, Standard, and Suite, which gives you a range of different options to choose from depending on your needs and budget.

In terms of evolution, Live 11 builds upon the already impressive capabilities of Live 10 and adds even more features and improvements. For example, Live 10's wavetable synth was already a powerful tool, but Live 11's Wavetable synth takes it to the next level with even more wavetables and more flexible modulation options. Live 10's sampler was already excellent, but Live 11's sampler adds new features like MPE support and improved time-stretching algorithms. Live 10's EQ Eight and compressor were already top-notch, but Live 11's versions add new features and improvements like a high-pass filter and improved transient shaping. These are just a few examples of the many enhancements in Live 11 that make it an even more powerful and enjoyable DAW.

Famous electronic music producers and DJs are raving about Live 11 as well. Zedd, for example, said "I've been using Ableton for over a decade now and each new update just keeps blowing my mind. Live 11 is no exception. The new synths, effects, and workflow enhancements are game changers for me and have already inspired me to write so many new ideas." It's not just Zedd either, other top producers like Porter Robinson and Madeon have also been using Live 11 in their own productions.

Live 11 has been used on a ton of hit tracks and songs as well. For example, Zedd used Live 11 to produce his hit track "The Middle," which has over 2 billion streams on Spotify. Live 11 was also used to produce Porter Robinson's track "Get Your Wish," and Madeon used Live 11 to produce his track "All My Friends," which has over 50 million streams on Spotify. These are just a few examples of the many tracks and songs that have been produced with Live 11, and it's clear that it's a go-to tool for top electronic music producers.

In conclusion, Ableton Live 11 Suite is an excellent DAW that electronic music producers love. Its new features and improvements make it easier and more enjoyable to use, and its flexibility and compatibility make it a top choice for producers looking for a comprehensive and feature-rich DAW. Its stability and reliability are also essential, and its massive user base means you can find loads of resources and support if you need it. Sure, it might be a little pricey, but trust me, it's worth every penny for the amazing features and capabilities it provides.

My rating: 9/10

Customer rating: 8.9/10



Ableton Live 9 is a strong and versatile digital audio workstation (DAW) utilized by musicians, producers, and DJs all over the world. The interface is simple and straightforward to use, making it simple to identify and use the tools you need for your creative process. 

The session view is a prominent feature of Ableton Live 9. This novel feature enables you to effortlessly improvise and experiment with various musical ideas, as well as activate loops and samples in real-time. It also provides for simple and flexible recording, allowing you to capture ideas as they arise.

Another feature that differentiates Ableton Live 9 from other DAWs is its robust MIDI sequencing capabilities. It includes a step sequencer, drum machine, and piano roll editor among other tools for creating and editing MIDI clips. This enables you to produce sophisticated and detailed MIDI performances that would be difficult or impossible to accomplish using other applications. 

Ableton Live 9 also has a plethora of effects and instruments, such as virtual instruments, drum machines, and samplers. This allows you to add depth and intricacy to your productions while also creating unique sounds not found in other apps. Ableton Live 9 also features a full set of audio effects, such as EQ, compression  , reverb, and delay, which can be used to shape and refine your sounds to perfection.

Ableton Live 9 also offers a variety of live performance tools, such as the ability to trigger loops and samples, operate virtual instruments, and manipulate audio effects in real time. This makes it an excellent choice for DJs, electronic artists, and other live performers looking to add a visual element to their performances. 

Finally, Ableton Live 9 is a strong and adaptable DAW with a variety of features and tools for creating, composing, and playing music. Its easy-to-use interface, revolutionary session view, robust MIDI sequencing capabilities, a vast choice of effects and instruments, and live performance features make it a must-have tool for any musician or producer.

 Ableton Live 9 is a software that can adapt to any music genre and style, and with its capabilities, you can take your music production to the next level.

Ableton Live 9

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Ableton Live 11 Suite

One of the most notable improvements in FL Studio 21 is the revamped user interface, which has been redesigned to be more modern and intuitive. The software includes a range of new virtual instruments and effects, as well as a powerful piano roll editor for creating and editing melodies and drum patterns. It also includes a range of features for arranging and mixing tracks, such as the ability to use multiple audio tracks, apply effects and automation, and use real-time audio stretching

One of the key advantages of FL Studio 21 is the flexibility it offers. The software is designed to be used in a variety of different ways, from creating music from scratch to editing and refining existing tracks. It is also highly customizable, with a range of options for personalizing the interface and workflow to suit your specific needs. For example, you can choose from a variety of color schemes, resize and rearrange the interface elements, and even create your own custom plugin menus.

In terms of compatibility, FL Studio 21 is available for Windows and macOS, and can be used as a standalone application or as a plugin within other DAWs. It supports a wide range of audio file formats, as well as VST and AU plugins, making it easy to integrate into a variety of music production setups.

FL Studio 21 also includes a range of performance and workflow enhancements that make it easier and more efficient to use. These include a new "Playlist Arrangements" feature that allows you to create multiple versions of a song within the same project, a "Capture MIDI" function for quickly recording MIDI performances, and a "Playlist Tracks" view that provides a high-level overview of your entire project.

One potential downside of FL Studio 21 is its price. While the software is generally well-regarded, it is one of the more expensive DAWs on the market, which may be a concern for some users. However, considering the wide range of features and flexibility it offers, it may be worth the investment for those who are serious about music production.

In comparison to previous versions of FL Studio, the improvements and new features in FL Studio 21 make it a significant upgrade. The redesigned user interface and range of virtual instruments and effects make it easier and more enjoyable to use, and the performance and workflow enhancements increase efficiency and productivity.

Overall, FL Studio 21 is a powerful and user-friendly DAW that is widely used by electronic music producers for creating and producing professional-quality music. Its intuitive interface, wide range of virtual instruments and effects, and flexibility make it a strong choice for those who are looking for a comprehensive and feature-rich DAW. While it is on the pricier side, its many features and capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for those who are committed to music production.

Rating: 9/10

Fruity Loops

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The Avener Uses Image Line Fl Studio 11 Producer Edition 1

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FL Studio 21 Review

FabFilter Pro-Q 3: This EQ is a favorite among many producers and engineers because of its excellent sound quality, intuitive interface, and flexible features. It offers up to 24 bands of EQ, a variety of filter types, and the ability to solo bands, making it easy to find and fix frequency issues. "I love the FabFilter Pro-Q 3. It's super transparent and has so many useful features like the ability to solo bands and the option to switch between different filter types. It's my go-to EQ for just about everything," says Grammy-winning mixer Manny Marroquin.

IK Multimedia T-RackS EQ: This EQ plugin is known for its vintage-inspired sound and its ability to add warmth and character to a mix. It has four bands of EQ, each with a variety of filter types and gain options, as well as a high-pass and low-pass filter. "The IK Multimedia T-RackS EQ is a secret weapon in my plugin arsenal. It has this warm, analog-like sound that really adds character and depth to a mix," says producer and engineer Tony Maserati.
wavesfactory TrackSpacer: This unique EQ plugin is designed to help create space in a mix by reducing the level of a specific frequency range in one track based on the level of that same frequency range in another track. It's an excellent tool for separating instruments and making them sit better in a mix. "The wavesfactory TrackSpacer is a game changer. It helps me create space in my mixes by letting me carve out specific frequencies in one track based on what's happening in another track. It's a must-have in my plugin folder," says producer and engineer Andrew Scheps.

Melda Production MFreeformEqualizer: This freeware EQ plugin is known for its unique approach to equalization, allowing you to draw in your own EQ curve with a freehand tool. It also has a variety of filter types, a spectrum analyzer, and the ability to load and save your own custom curves. "The Melda Production MFreeformEqualizer is such a cool EQ plugin. Being able to draw in your own EQ curve with the freehand tool is really powerful, and the variety of filter types and the spectrum analyzer are really useful too. It's definitely worth checking out," says producer and engineer Dave Pensado.

SPL EQ Ranger Plus: This EQ plugin is known for its unique "color" feature, which allows you to add a specific type of harmonic distortion to a specific frequency range. It also has a variety of filter types and a spectrum analyzer. "The SPL EQ Ranger Plus is a really cool EQ plugin. The 'color' feature is especially cool because it lets you add a specific type of distortion to a specific frequency range, which can really add character to a mix," says producer and engineer Ken Scott.

Boz Digital Labs Mongoose: This EQ plugin is known for its unique "saturation" feature, which allows you to add a specific type of distortion to a specific frequency range. It also has a variety of filter types and a spectrum analyzer. "The Boz Digital Labs Mongoose is a great EQ plugin. I especially love the 'saturation' feature because it lets me add a specific type of distortion to a specific frequency range, which can really help bring out the character of an instrument," says producer and engineer Jacquire King.

SonEQ: This freeware EQ plugin is a simple but powerful tool that offers three bands of EQ and a variety of filter types. It's a great option for those who don't need a lot of bells and whistles but still want a high-quality EQ. "The SonEQ EQ plugin is a great choice for those who want a simple but powerful EQ. The three bands and variety of filter types are all you need to get the job done," says producer and engineer Chris Lord-Alge.

Mokafix Audio Mokafix EQ: This freeware EQ plugin is another simple but powerful option that offers three bands of EQ and a variety of filter types. It's a great option for those who want a no-nonsense EQ that gets the job done. "The Mokafix Audio Mokafix EQ is a great tool for those who want a simple but powerful EQ. The three bands and variety of filter types are all you need to make your tracks sound great," says producer and engineer Steve Albini.

Blue Cat's Triple EQ: This EQ plugin is a simple but powerful option that offers three bands of EQ and a variety of filter types. It's known for its smooth sound and easy-to-use interface. "The Blue Cat's Triple EQ is a really smooth and easy-to-use EQ plugin. The three bands and variety of filter types are all you need to get the job done," says producer and engineer Greg Wells.

Voxengo Marvel GEQ: This freeware EQ plugin is a great option for those who want a simple but powerful graphic EQ. It offers up to 30 bands of EQ and a variety of filter types, as well as a spectrum analyzer. "The Voxengo Marvel GEQ is a really great graphic EQ plugin. The 30 bands and variety of filter types make it easy to find and fix frequency issues, and the spectrum analyzer is really helpful too," says producer and engineer Michael Brauer.
Ignite Amps TSB-3: This freeware EQ plugin is a simple but powerful option that offers three bands of EQ and a variety of filter types. It's known for its warm and vintage-inspired sound. "The Ignite Amps TSB-3 is a really warm and vintage-inspired EQ plugin. The three bands and variety of filter types make it easy to shape the sound of your tracks," says producer and engineer Joe Chiccarelli.

SPL EQ Ranger: This EQ plugin is a simple but powerful option that offers three bands of EQ and a variety of filter types. It's known for its smooth and transparent sound. "The SPL EQ Ranger is a really smooth and transparent EQ plugin. The three bands and variety of filter types make it easy to shape the sound of your tracks without adding any unwanted color," says producer and engineer Mike Plotnikoff.

Acon Digital Equalize: This freeware EQ plugin is a simple but powerful option that offers four bands of EQ and a variety of filter types. It's known for its clean and transparent sound. "The Acon Digital Equalize is a really clean and transparent EQ plugin. The four bands and variety of filter types make it easy to shape the sound of your tracks without adding any unwanted color," says producer and engineer Andy Wallace.

DDMF NYCompressor: This freeware EQ plugin is a simple but powerful option that offers three bands of EQ and a variety of filter types. It's known for its clean and transparent sound. "The DDMF NYCompressor is a really clean and transparent EQ plugin. The three bands and variety of filter types make it easy to shape the sound of your tracks without adding any unwanted color," says producer and engineer Dave Sardy.

TDR Nova: This EQ plugin is a powerful option that offers four bands of EQ and a variety of filter types. It's known for its excellent sound quality and intuitive interface. "The TDR Nova is a really great EQ plugin. The four bands and variety of filter types make it easy to shape the sound of your tracks, and the sound quality is excellent," says producer and engineer Mark "Spike" Stent.

In conclusion, there are many great EQ plugins available for electronic music producers. From simple and straightforward options to powerful and versatile EQs, there's something here for every producer's needs. Whether you're looking for a vintage-inspired sound or a transparent and clean EQ, there's a free plugin on this list that will fit the bill. So next time you're in need of an EQ plugin, be sure to give these top 20 free options a try – you might be surprised at how well they can help shape the sound of your tracks.

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