If you’re building your plugin collection, whether you're mixing, producing, or just learning, these are trusted sources for both free and paid audio tools. No sketchy downloads. No filler plugins that sound like a demo tape from 2004. Just the real stuff — clean, reliable, and worth your time.
TAL Software
TAL offers a solid range of analog-inspired synths, delays, reverbs, and modulation effects. A lot of it is free, and it actually sounds good — especially for synth-based genres or retro-style production.
Recommended:
TAL-Chorus-LX (Juno-style chorus)
TAL-Reverb-4 (simple, smooth plate reverb)
TAL-NoiseMaker (versatile subtractive synth)
Don’tCrack Freeware List
🔗 https://www.dontcrack.com/freeware/
An old-school but reliable hub with hundreds of free plugins sorted by category. Not everything is gold, but you’ll find some solid utilities, creative FX, and unique processors here — especially for producers on a tight budget.
KVR Audio
KVR is more than just a plugin site — it’s a massive community hub for music production. You’ll find:
A full plugin database with search filters
User ratings and dev info
News on updates, new releases, and developer deals
Active forums for advice, reviews, and feedback
This is where you go to stay in the loop and discover lesser-known gems.
TBProAudio
🔗 https://www.tbproaudio.de/download
Known for reliable metering and utility plugins — stuff that’s useful in every mix, especially when you’re working with loudness targets or broadcast standards.
Good tools to grab:
mvMeter2 – vintage-style meters
dpMeter5 – detailed LUFS/peak metering
sTiltV2 – simple tilt EQ for tonal balancing
Plugin Boutique
🔗 https://www.pluginboutique.com/?a_aid=650e09ca3c663
One of the main online stores for audio plugins. They run regular sales and bundles on brands like iZotope, FabFilter, Soundtoys, and more. Even better, they usually offer a free plugin with every purchase, no matter how small.
Sign up for their newsletter their monthly freebie is often worth grabbing even if you’re not buying anything.
Quick Tips
Stick to a few key tools and learn them well
Vet free plugins before using them in real sessions
Keep your plugin folders organized (by type or vendor)
Make backups of your licenses/installers just in case
Final Note:You don’t need hundreds of plugins to make great music. You just need a few good ones and the skills to use them right. These sites will get you what you need without wasting time or money.
If you've got a go-to free plugin not listed here, drop it in the thread and put someone else on.