The 27 best free VST plug-ins in the world today

The internet is now awash with free VST plug-ins - you’ll find instruments, effects and others that defy categorisation. However, while it’s great to have so many to choose from, this weight of numbers means that it’s difficult to work out what’s worth having and what you should steer clear of. Of course, you won’t lose out financially by downloading a dud or two, but to save you a lot of time, effort and potential disappointment, we’ve compiled a list of the best free VST (and Audio Units) plug-ins in the world today. Our shortlist was put together based on your nominations from 2010, when we ran our first poll, and 2012, when we put the word out that our list was being updated. Before we get down to business, we should also remind you that our sister magazine, Computer Music, features a slew of exclusive plug-ins on its cover disc every month, so if the software on this list doesn't satisfy you, try that as well. NEXT: de la Mancha FMMF

Free music software: the best audio app and plug-in downloads on the net | Free music software A barrage of new plug-ins Beat Zampler Platform/format: PC, Mac/VST, AU Download Released by German magazine Beat but created by renowned developer Synapse Audio, this is a sample workstation that comes with SFZ support. WOK Ring-O Platform/format: PC/VST Download The modulation source for this ring modulation effect can be the left and right sides of a stereo signal modulating each other, or a stereo signal modulated by Ring-O's internal oscillator. Syncersoft Amusing Sounds Of The Body Platform/format: PC/VST Download Some will question how amusing it is, but this plug-in can certainly produce 'bodily function' sounds. Softrave LEL UDS Drums Platform/format: PC/VST Download Vintage analogue drum modules are brought back to life with this 140-sample instrument. Xenium Audio X-Tube Platform/format: PC/VST Download X-Tube has been created to simulate the saturation effect of a 12AX7 tube amp. Homegrown Sounds Multitimbral Control Platform/format: PC/VST Download Syncersoft Analog Voice

The 30 Greatest Shred Albums of All Time Guitar World presents 30 albums (from three eras) that pushed the speed limit! To some people, shred guitar is about one thing, and one thing only: the need for speed. The yearn to burn. Just the word itself can conjure glorious images of long-haired, pointy-guitar-wielding metalmen, fingers scaling fretboards with dazzling dexterity and furious speed, melody and musicality by damned. But in fact shred was around well before the Eighties, and it has continued to thrive in the decades since. In the following gallery, we present 30 great players from the Golden Era, the Old-School Era and the Modern Era of shred, along with the album and song that best exemplifies their shredding skills. As these entries attest, shred is about pushing boundaries, exploring the great guitar unknown and, basically, doing really cool stuff that's never been done before. Enjoy! The 30 Greatest Shred Albums of All Time

10 easy guides to making music on your PC If you've ever wondered about making music on your computer, look no further. Our colleagues over at MusicRadar have gathered together 10 top tutorials to help you along the way. Whether you want to learn more about the basics, find out about virtual instruments or create the perfect intro, here's a guide to help you. 1. Good reasons to start making music on your computerSome of you might be doing this already – probably the reason you're reading this list, in fact – but if you haven't yet discovered the joys of computer-based music-making (or just need some fresh inspiration) then here are 10 compelling reasons to do so.Read 10 good reasons to start making music on a computer 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Now read How to mix live music with your laptop Sign up for the free weekly TechRadar newsletterGet tech news delivered straight to your inbox.

Better Guitar - Guitar Songs You Should Learn. There are certain songs that every guitar player should try to learn. Either they are commonly requested or they have cool guitar parts that will expand your playing skills. I am going to list songs in several styles of music and explain why I think they should be add to your “play list.” Obviously, this type of list won’t ever be comprehensive, and no doubt, many will disagree with my choices — and find many ommissions. This is a huge list and will take most players years to complete (if ever.) Johnny B.