VST/AU plug-in instrument/effect round-up: Week 39

Running the gamut

There’s still time for you to vote for the best VST plug-in effect in the world today, but right here we’re looking at the brand new instruments and audio processors that are up for your consideration this week.

Also make sure you check out these regularly updated features:

The 20 best VST plug-in synths in the world today

The 14 best VST plug-in drum machines in the world today

If you've got a new PC or Mac plug-in, make sure you let us know about it by emailing musicradar.pressreleases@futurenet.com with all the details.

NEXT: MaxSynths Latte

MaxSynths Latte

Leaving aside jokes about this being a ‘frothy’ concept for a synth, Latte is a 2-oscillator instrument that comes with a filter, two LFOs and extensive modulation options. One of the most notable is polyphonic aftertouch, which promises to facilitate the creation of super-expressive sounds. A free 4-voice version is available, too.

Buy MaxSynths Latte

Softrave Harmonium Pro

If you want to give your music a 19th century vibe, this sample-based virtual harmonium could be the way to go. Extra flavour can be added by engaging the analog drift control, and the good news is that you don’t need to use your legs to pump air into the thing. A feature-limited free version is also available.

Buy Softrave Harmonium Pro

Cableguys VolumeShaper 3

VolumeShaper is designed to shape and automate the levels of an audio signal, which means you can use it to create the likes of pumping, extreme gating and tempo-synced stutter effects. Version 3 adds an oscilloscope and an option to trigger the LFO via MIDI notes.

Buy or download demo of Cableguys VolumeShaper 3

G-Sonique Mid-Side: Envelope Follower/FX Multifilter

The developer says that Mid-Side: Envelope Follower/FX Multifilter differs from some of its rivals by splitting the signal into Mid and stereo parts, each of which can be processed individually. It can be used to create “crazy, funky” sounding beats, on stereo channels or on the master channel.

Buy or download demo of G-Sonique Mid-Side: Envelope Follower/FX Multifilter

Sound Magic Neo Dynamic

Neo Dynamic is said to be modelled on a total of 10 vintage compressors and limiters, but also promises more “sonic variety” than traditional units. Intriguingly, we’re told that it’s more like a sampler than a typical compressor/limiter, and also easy to use.

Buy or download demo of Sound Magic Neo Dynamic

Imea Studio Groove Drums

Not just a sampler but a sequencer that enables you to create drum and percussion grooves. Groove Drums gives you eight channels to work with, each if which can contain 16 patterns of 24 steps. Effects are included, too - check out the demo video here.

Buy or download demo of Imea Studio Groove Drums

Crysonic Spectralive NXT4

This ‘spectral audio vitalizer/enhancer’ is designed to help you give your music a commercial, professional sheen. The big claim made of this new version is that it’s now a complete mastering tool that comes complete with two compressors plus a bass enhancer, limiter, gate and dithering capabilities.

Buy or download demo of Crysonic Spectralive NXT4