Discrete Labs Atlas is a new virtual analog software synth inspired by the iconic synthesizers of the 1970s! This week’s collection of the best free plugins also brings you an easy-to-use high-frequency enhancer and an emulation of a popular bass overdrive pedal.
Discrete Labs Atlas: Free Polyphonic Software Synth
This new polyphonic virtual analog synth from Discrete Labs takes clues from classic synths. Atlas may not reinvent the wheel, but its clear layout and uncluttered GUI make it a great synth for learning subtractive synthesis. And it’s completely free!
Each of the three oscillators offers a choice of sine, triangle, square, and sawtooth waveforms. You can adjust their levels in the mixer, where you’ll also find a control for adding noise. Next is a 12 dB lowpass filter with adjustable key tracking. Two ADSR envelopes control the amp and filter. On the left, there’s a simple LFO offering sine, triangle, square, and saw waves.
The two modulation busses look to be inspired by Moog synthesizers. Both offer a choice of four sources (OSC 1-3, LFO) and five destinations, including the waveshapes of the oscillators. In addition to the mod wheel, velocity, and aftertouch, both envelopes can be used to control their intensity.
While Atlas has a pretty conventional layout, it does offer enough flexibility for creative sound design. It’s even MPE compatible – not bad for a free software synth!
Atlas is currently only available as an AU plugin for macOS (Intel / Apple Silicon).
Modern Music Solutions S-Drive: A Popular Bass Overdrive for your DAW
S-Drive by Modern Music Solutions brings a popular overdrive pedal for bass to your DAW. Looking at its controls and features, it takes no scientist to figure out that the famous SansAmp Bass Driver DI by Tech 21 served as an inspiration.
Like the original, S-Drive has Level, Blend, and Drive controls for adjusting the volume and overdrive intensity. There’s also an EQ with Treble, Presence, Mid, and Bass controls. The Mid and Bass bands can be switched between 500 and 1000 Hz and 40 and 80 Hz, respectively, just like you’d expect from a Bass Driver.
S-Drive is available for macOS and Windows in VST3, AU, and AAX formats. If you like what you’re hearing and want the real deal, you’ll find the current version of the SansAmp Bass Driver DI here*.
Vox Samples Aurora Air Enhancer: Free High-Frequency Enhancer
Vox Samples just keeps churning out the freebies. Next up is Aurora Air Enhancer, a high-frequency enhancer that adds a healthy dose of top-end sparkle to your tracks.
Like all plugins by Vox Samples, Aurora is extremely easy to use. The big green Air knob controls the intensity of the effect. The Freq knob lets you dial in the desired frequency for top-end sweetening. And last but not least, there’s a Gain knob that not only adjusts the output volume, but also lets you add a bit of saturation / distortion if desired.
Aurora Air Enhancer is available for macOS and Windows in VST3 and AU formats.
Looking for more free plugins like Atlas, S-Drive, and Aurora? Check out our archive!
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