Ever since the VST first made its way into the music production world, VST instruments dramatically increased the capabilities of DAWs.
It's truly incredible how this technology that remains relatively unchanged from its first versions in the late 90s, continues to shape modern music production as we know.
Jul 26, 2020 They often emulate recognizable sounds of famous synthesizers and other instruments. Popular VST instruments include Serum, Massive, FM8, Sylenth 1 and Absynth. VST effects: Instead of creating audio, these plugins process and add effects to existing audio or MIDI sequences. These include reverb, delay, filters and compressors plugins. There are numerous sounds You can get from the FL Studio's basic installation. In version 12.1.2, You can find a fine piano on Fl-keys generator (in the plugin browser, go to Installed generators Fruity). There are many piano sounds, through which You can list by clicking on the arrows on the top right corner of the FL Keys window.
There are 1000s of VST instruments on the market today, including some great free ones.
Check description for download link. But freeware plugins can only take you so far. The top tone tools for music production are still commercial products that come with a price tag.
When it comes to paid synth plugins, knowing where to put your money is hard. Which is why LANDR now offers rent-to-own plugins—to bring you the tools you need at affordable prices.
With all the options out there, it doesn't have to be scary or expensive if you're able to pick the best synth plugin that's right for your music production needs.
Let's take a look at VST instruments that are responsible for iconic tracks and sounds you can't get anywhere else.
Here's the essential list of the best VST instruments and synth plugins
- Lethal Audio
- Spectrasonics Omnisphere
- Xfer Serum
- Native Instruments Massive
- Native Instruments FM8
- Arturia V Collection
- Native Instruments Kontakt 6
- Reveal Sound Spire
- u-he Hive
- REFX Nexus 2
Use this list to choose the best synth plugins from the cream of the crop.
1. Lethal Audio Lethal
Price: $199
Lethal by Lethal Audio is a ROM based powerhouse that includes thousands of sounds and presets and 24 genre-specific expansions.
It's also the first rent-to-own plugin from LANDR…
We know, we know: we're a bit biased. But we had to put it first on this list because we've been enjoying it so much in our own productions lately.
Lethal by Lethal Audio is a ROM based powerhouse that includes thousands of sounds and presets 24 genre-specific expansions.
This soft synth puts some of the most in-demand tones in modern production right at your fingertips with it's easy to use preset browser.
From there's plenty of room to sculpt them with effects and powerful synthesis features.
Plus its light enough on your processor that you can create an entire track using just Lethal.
If you're looking for simplicity and great value, Lethal is the perfect synth for you.
2. Spectrasonics Omnisphere
Price: $499 USD
Spectrasonics Omnisphere is one of the biggest names in software synthesizers. This massively powerful instrument packs an almost overwhelming amount of functionality.
There's so much going on under the hood in Omnisphere that it might be a little intimidating to new users.
But there's a super helpful community around this synth to guide you on your journey—and plenty of resources available if you're feeling stuck.
If all else fails you could get lost in the sheer number of presets and discover some incredible sounds without ever once needing to do any tweaking.
Omnisphere is a powerful experience!
Omnisphere is a powerful experience!
3. Xfer Serum
Price: $189 USD
Xfer Serum is usually next on the list of the most essential soft synths.
Serum is a wavetable synthesizer. Unlike the hardware synths of the past that rely on wavetable technology, Serum has no processing limitations—and it shows.
Serum's wavetable tech is incredibly powerful. Even for simple waveforms, its expertly implemented wavetables sound ultra-clear and clean.
This gives the synth a crisp and clean sound that can be quite intense!
4. Native Instruments Massive
Price: $149 USD
Native Instruments' Massive has been around since the early days of softsynths, but it's an all-time favourite for a reason.
This synth is designed to make basses. Massive basses—and it works.
Its easy to use virtual-analog subtractive design will seem familiar and intuitive, even to new users.
Its extremely fat sound has defined a generation of producers and continues to be a great option for plugin synthesis.
Hot Tip: Massive has just received a significant update with NI Massive X.
Massive X is an entirely new synth plugin reimagined from the ground up to bring the classic VST into the modern era of music production. It just might end up being more legendary than the original!
5. Native Instruments FM8
Price: $149 USD
Native Instruments FM8 is another longtime favourite soft synth from the classic plugin manufacturer.
FM8 uses frequency modulation synthesis like the iconic Yamaha DX-7 that defined the sound of the 80s.
FM8 uses frequency modulation synthesis like the iconic Yamaha DX-7 that defined the sound of the 80s.
This method can seem complicated, but FM8 focuses on putting all the control you need at your fingertips.
Plus, FM8 takes FM synthesis much further than classic hardware.
All the delicate, crystalline bells and keys you might associate with FM are there, along with all kinds of inspiring new sounds and textures—FM is cool!
6. Arturia V Collection
Price: 499$
The Arturia V Collection is truly incredible because it gives you access to a library of legendary vintage synths.
It's hard to express just how incredible it is that you can download and emulate genre-defining synths like the CS-80 or the ARP 2600.
Having access to a literal library of classic synths opens up your production capabilities to levels that producers of eras past could only dream about.
7. Native Instruments Kontakt 6
Price: $519
Kontakt 6 is a collection of sample-based instruments from Native Instruments.
It's essentially a platform that plugs into your DAW and gives you access to its three Play Series synths, Retro Machines MK2 and its original Factory Library.
The Play Series synths come with three synth engines—Analog Dreams for classic analog-style synths, Ethereal Earth for atmospheric pads and Hybrid Keys for interesting Rhodes style sounds.
Retro Machines is Native Intstruments' retro synth offering that gives access to 16 re-creations of classic vintage hardware.
And of course, the Factory Libary comes with 1000s of stock samples you can freely use in your tracks.
8. Reveal Sound Spire
Price: $189 USD
Reveal Sound Spire is a hybrid synthesizer that covers everything from analog modelling to 'HardFM.'
Spire's powerful unison modes allow for up to 9 unison voices per oscillator
And its internal effects system is like a built-in sound design tool, complete with its own LFOs and matrix slots.
Best Instruments For Fl Studio 12
Onboard mixing tools like EQ and compression make Spire a one-stop-shop for designing tones that work great in a mix.
9. u-he Hive
Price: €149 Euro
u-he Hive is a sleek and lightweight multipurpose synth with tons of functionality. Hive's effective workflow can get you started creating great sounding patches right away.
It's ability to support microtunings and unique mix of synthesis styles makes it unique and it's extensive modulation matrix and function generators make it flexible.
But at heart Hive is a two oscillator subtractive synth. That means that even if you're still getting comfortable with the basics of synthesis, there's nothing here you can't handle.
10. REFX Nexus2
Price: $249 USD
REFX Nexus2 is another ROM based plugin with an extensive library that's fully loaded for EDM production.
Nexus has made its way into the studios of some pretty big names, but the sound quality speaks for itself.
Nexus has made its way into the studios of some pretty big names, but the sound quality speaks for itself.
Nexus is expandable via a huge amount of downloadable content and expansions on REFX for every style of music.
Synthetica
Synthesizer plugins are one of the most exciting parts of digital music production.
No matter what sound you're chasing, there's a soft synth out there that will help you get it.
These are the best synth plugins to check out next time you're GAS-ing for a powerful new plugin to add to your arsenal.
Are you trying to find the best MIDI controllers to use with FL Studio?
Well, we've delved deep into researching the five best MIDI controllers that you can use with FL Studio.
Everyone from newbies to professional use this recording software, and for good reason.
It provides you with complete control and editing abilities to create the exact sounds that you want.
Using a high-quality MIDI controller will enhance the amount of versatility and control that you have over your music.
Take a look below to discover what the best MIDI controllers have to offer.
Features to Consider
Before jumping into what some of the best MIDI controllers have to offer, there are some important factors to take into consideration.
Fl Studio Instruments Pack
We've highlighted the main ones for you in this section.
Contents
- 5 Best MIDI Controllers Reviewed
FL Studio
FL studio is a piece of software that was created to make recording quick and easy. It enables you to use very diverse sounds with MIDI boards, which is why so many people love combining the two.
The editing process and interfaces available are easy to use to make the entire process of creating songs as smooth as possible.
Controls
There are many different controls available depending on the MIDI controller that you're using.
One of the main benefits of MIDI controllers is that you can alter the sounds as you're recording them.
You can do this using controls like modulation wheels, pitch functions, or sliders.
All the controls on MIDI boards are designed to make it easier for you to create the specific sounds that you want with ease.
Keys
MIDI keys come in sets of 61, 49, or 25.
Depending on how you're going to be using the board, each artist will require different keys.
For example, someone who's traveling and doing live performances would need a smaller board. In which case, a 25-key option would be best.
In other situations, a recording artist may be situated in a studio and have the room to be able to play around with more keys. The 61 key keyboards would suit them the most here.
The 49 key keyboards are a great middle-ground option for pretty much everyone!
Best MIDI Controllers Compared
MIDI Controller | Number of Keys Available | Rating | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|
Akai Professional MPK249 MIDI Keyboard | 49 key | (4.3/5) | View deals |
Alexis VX49 MIDI Controller | 49 key | (3.8/5) | View deals |
Nektar Panorama P4 MIDI Controller | 49 key | (4.3/5) | View deals |
ROLI Seaboard Block MIDI Controller | 24 key | (4.3/5) | View deals |
Novation Launchkey Controller | 61 key | (4.3/5) | View deals |
5 Best MIDI Controllers Reviewed
To learn the main features, cons, and what customers are saying about the give best MIDI controllers available on the market, have a quick read below.
Akai Professional MPK249 MIDI Keyboard
This Akai MIDI keyboard is great for producers who perform live or have smaller recording spaces.
This is due to it's lightweight and more compact design.
Best Features:
- The trigger pads make live performances and studio recording an enjoyable process.
- 49 keys have pressure sensitivity benefits, which make them feel great to use.
- Weighs in at just 12.6 lbs, which is excellent for people on the move
Downsides:
- Some find getting used to the configuration takes time
What are customers saying?
The construction quality is top notch. You can use it for years and still expect the board to operate like it's brand new. Customer support is also fantastic.
View latest dealsAlexis VX49 MIDI Controller
The VX49 MIDI controller provides you with an extremely hands-on experience, which producers are loving.
Best Features:
- Navigating the plugins with FL studio is a breeze
- The 4.3' screen has high resolution and is simple to use
- There are 49 keys which are semi-weighted and have an aftertouch feature
Downsides
- The pads could feel more responsive
What are customers saying?
Customers are pleased with how the keys feel. They've also been impressed by how the backlight design and solid construction come together for a visually appealing and durable board.
View latest dealsNektar Panorama P4 MIDI Controller
The pads and keys on this Nektar Panorama MIDI controller are balanced well and sensitive enough to allow you to put your full expression into the music.
Best Features:
- Very lightweight at just 14 lbs, making it easily portable.
- 93 parameters available which provide you with tons of modulation options.
- The ALPS fader is motorized and has a touch sensitive feature for ultimate control over mixing.
Downsides:
- The keys feel a little too soft for some
What are customers saying?
More Instruments For Fl Studio
The control over how instruments are played is fantastic. Mixing sounds feel great and the keyboard itself feels very comfortable to use. Customers have also noted that they can easily adjust how the keys feel until they're completely happy.
View latest dealsROLI Seaboard Block MIDI Controller
With the incredibly responsive keys, you're able to fully express yourself in the music you create while using this ROLI MIDI controller.
Best Features:
- 5D touch lets you change the volume, pitch, and vibrato with a single finger.
- You're able to connect other ROLI products for great live performances and enhanced studio recordings.
- It's super lightweight at just 1.43 lbs so you can carry it around without any hassle.
Downsides:
- Some find the board is prone to moving while in use
- Others notice it can get dirty too easily and quickly
What are customers saying?
Users have been impressed to discover how much more emotion they're able to put into their music by using this ROLI MIDI controller.
View latest dealsNovation Launchkey Controller
The Novation Launchkey MIDI controller is a fantastic choice for both live performances and producing electronic music.
Best Features:
- The drum pads have velocity sensitive features which make triggering various sample sounds simple.
- Since it weighs just 9.26 lbs this controller is awesome for producers who perform live.
- No drivers are needed – you simply have the software installed and you're ready to go.
Downsides:
- Pads aren't as responsive as some users had hoped.
What are customers saying?
Users are happy to find how lightweight and compact this board is. The quick set up also makes live performances run smoother.
View latest dealsNow that you know more about what some of the best MIDI controllers have to offer, you can be sure to pick the one that suits your needs the best.
Use our review above to help you narrow down your search and begin recording with the top MIDI controllers available on the market.