ReaEQ comes equipped with high and low pass filters, bands, much more.
Moreover, each band has a separate bypass toggle, meaning that you can easily switch one on/off to compare a sound before/after processing. The bandwidth can be widened or narrowed with a few mouse clicks, streamlining the process.
You are able to add an unlimited amount of bands to give absolute clarity to the vocal and add polish to its final master. For example, the VST has a dial-in frequency feature that allows the user to enter precisely what frequency he/she would like to be emphasized or lowered. In general, this EQ plugin is great for the entire production process, but it also has a couple of key features that lend themselves particularly towards vocal mastering. Related post: Best Paid EQ plugins for Vocals ReaEQ by Reaper
Here are a couple of free EQs that can fulfill all of your vocal mastering needs. When mastering a vocal, especially in pop/more current styles of music, producers commonly boost/cut out frequencies to help it stand out a bit more in the master mix. For a seasoned engineer, this VST may be oversimplified, but those looking for efficiency or that classic mono sound, this is an excellent choice.
Moreover, Klanghelm produces a bulkier compressor VST entitled DC8C, so DC1A acts as a great trial run before investing in a paid plugin. The main focus of the plugin is the input and output, nothing else really besides the compression modes, making it a great option for beginners. The meter itself is easily understood and has a delineated red threshold so you can tell whether or not you’re clipping even with just a quick glance. To add to its retro vibe, the VST has an embedded meter that looks like those on vintage rack mounts and is just as useful. Its most notable feature is the 4 built-in presets with deep, relaxed, negative, and dual mono compression modes. If you’re looking for a simple compressor to give your vocals a bit more of an analog/classic feel, the Klanghelm DC1A is an excellent free plugin to start with. Overall, the price is more than right, and OTT does an excellent job at evening out levels. Each band is equipped with a modest visualizer, allowing you to see how your sound is being altered at different frequency ranges.Īlthough some producers may find the lack of options control-wise limiting, OTT is quick to get you to the sound you desire without wasting unnecessary time. OTT has the standard controls of any compressor: In/Out Gain, depth, and time without the clutter from any unnecessary bells and whistles. The VST consists of 3 bands and is geared towards trap/electronic genres. With a simple yet sleek user interface, this plugin is approachable to engineers at all ends of the spectrum. Related: Proper Compression Settings for Vocals, Best Paid Vocal Compressors OTT by Xfer Records Check out some of these options to achieve a cohesive, condensed vocal sound. With vocal audio constantly wavering between high and low levels, a good compressor is nothing short of essential to the final mastering process. In this article, we’ll dive into a couple of compressors, exciters, equalizers, and noise gate VSTs that mimic many of the tools used by the pros to give mixes the extra polish they need.įree Plugins For Mastering Vocals Compressor VSTs Luckily, there are several free vocal mastering VST plugins to assist in the process without breaking the bank. Due to their undeniable complexity, a seasoned engineer can easily spend hours mastering a single vocal track…Īfterall, compressing and paying special attention to levels on the most dynamic instrument only makes sense.