What’s VST?
Virtual Studio Technology is the acronym for Virtual Studio Technology. This term is pretty clear. Virtual Studio Technology is a technique that can be virtually replicated to create certain technology used in music production and mixing studios.
The modern producer can’t work without this because people are shifting from the traditional “hands-on” approach to creating and mixing music to digital approaches or working entirely in their DAW (digital audio workstation) on computers.
There are two types of VSTs: effects and instruments. Instruments are banks that have instruments on them, such as synths, orchestras, pianos, etc. The effects are based on mixing gear and effects in studios like equalizers, compressors, reverbs, etc.
Pro-Q 3 from FabFilter
Type: Equalizer
Price: $179.00
In some of our instructional videos, we referred to this plugin as our “good friend”. This plugin is probably the most used on all channels. It is a flexible and precise EQ and also features a spectrum analyzer. You can see the frequency curve and adjust accordingly.
The Pro Q 3 has a dynamic EQ mode that applies a dynamic designer to the selected band. This is something that is brand new. The signal will respond to the area’s loudness. This means that the signal will be less attenuated the louder it gets. This is a great feature.
Universal Audio – Neve 1073
Type: Equalizer
Price: $157.00
Rupert Neve, a renowned console designer, built the 1073 mic preamp/EQ. It dates back to 1970 when it was part of the Neve custom made console. Universal Audio decided to emulate the preamp/EQ and include this plugin in their vast array of amazing plugins.
The new plugin 1073 has a vertical mount, while the Legacy model has a horizontal one. It is also sweeter and larger than the Legacy UI. The plugin accurately models every circuit of the “golden” 1073, paying particular attention to the transformer.
Abbey Road RS124 from Waves
Type: Compression
Price: $59.99
Waves and Abbey Road Studios collaborated on another emulation of hardware inextricably connected to the iconic studios. This is a thoughtful emulation not only of one but several of the iconic compressors that creates a unique sound and a few trendy twists.
According to the Beatles, the compressor was used for all tracks recorded at Abbey Road. This suggests that the compressor will have a vintage feel and bring back memories of when these songs were recorded.
Waves CLA-2A from Waves
Type: Compression
Price: $49.99
Another classic. Another compressor you will find in many studios. This compressor is very popular, and it’s not surprising. You can set a threshold or make-up gain with just a few knobs. The compressor’s other standard parameters are already in the unit, and they work through its circuitry.
Trash 2 by iZotope
Type: Distortion
Price: $99.99
Trash 2 was designed to be flexible and adaptable in many ways. You can use Trash 2 to add extra grit to your drum record or guitar.