Are you looking to take your music production to the next level? Look no further than Soundtoys plugins. These powerful tools have become a staple in the industry and are trusted by music producers and sound engineers worldwide.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most popular Soundtoys plugins, including the versatile delay of EchoBoy, the aggressive compression of Devil-Loc Deluxe, and the funky filter effects of FilterFreak. Plus, we’ll explore the unique vocal processing capabilities of Little AlterBoy and the warmth and grit of Decapitator.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these Soundtoys plugins are sure to elevate your music production game. Join us as we explore the power and versatility of these essential tools.
Decapitator – A Bold and Versatile Saturation Plugin
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Review: Soundtoys’ Decapitator is a dynamic saturation plugin that caters to producers and mix engineers seeking the perfect blend of warmth, grit, and character. With its ability to emulate a range of analog hardware, this plugin offers a distinctive edge to your tracks by delivering anything from subtle harmonic enhancement to aggressive saturation.
Decapitator’s intuitive interface and five distinct saturation algorithms – A, E, N, T, and P – enable users to effortlessly dial in the desired saturation style, reminiscent of classic hardware units. The plugin’s “Drive” knob allows for precise control over the amount of saturation, while the “Tone” knob lets you shape the sound by adjusting the brightness or darkness of the processed audio.
For those craving a more aggressive and distorted edge, the “Punish” button pushes the plugin to its limits, delivering an intense level of saturation that’s perfect for adding power and depth to drums, basslines, and more.
The “Thump” and “Steep” switches provide additional sonic flexibility, allowing users to emphasize low-end frequencies or roll off high-end content, respectively. The blend of these controls, combined with the plugin’s built-in high and low-pass filters, ensures a tailored and polished sound.
In conclusion, Decapitator is a must-have plugin for those looking to inject their tracks with a unique and customizable warmth. Its versatility and ease of use make it an essential tool for producers and mix engineers who crave the distinctive character of analog saturation in their digital audio workstations.
| Feature | Description |
| Analog Gear Vibe | Infuse your tracks with the natural vibe of analog gear |
| Dynamic Analog Saturation | 5 detailed models of studio hardware for real saturation |
| Punish Button | Push your tracks over the top with added intensity |
| Analog-modeled Tone Control | Shape the contour of the saturation for a tailored sound |
| Mix Knob for Parallel Effects | Easily create parallel effects with the mix knob |
| System Requirements: Mac | macOS 10.12 Sierra and later (Intel / M1 / M2 supported) (64-bit only); VST2, VST3, AU, AAX Native, AAX AudioSuite |
| System Requirements: Windows | Windows 7 and later (64-bit only); VST2, VST3, AAX Native, AAX AudioSuite |
| Supported Sample Rates (Min/Max) | Minimum – 44.1 kHz; Maximum – 192 kHz |
Little AlterBoy – A Powerful and Creative Vocal Processing Plugin
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Review: Little AlterBoy by Soundtoys is an innovative and versatile vocal processing plugin that enables producers and sound designers to transform vocal tracks in unique and captivating ways. From subtle pitch correction to extreme vocal manipulation, Little AlterBoy provides an array of tools to push your creativity to new heights.
The plugin’s straightforward interface features a pitch and formant shifting control, allowing users to alter the tonality and character of vocal performances with ease. With its ability to produce both natural and robotic-sounding results, Little AlterBoy is perfect for experimenting with vocal textures or crafting otherworldly harmonies.
The ‘Drive’ knob adds another dimension to your vocal processing, introducing harmonic distortion that ranges from subtle warmth to a more aggressive, overdriven sound. Combined with the ‘Transpose’ function, you can create a variety of vocal effects, from gender-swapping transformations to stunning choral arrangements.
One of Little AlterBoy’s standout features is its ‘Quantize’ mode, which locks the pitch to a selectable scale, allowing for instant harmonization and creative vocal effects. Additionally, the ‘Robot’ mode fixes the vocal pitch to a single note, creating a classic vocoder-like sound that’s perfect for electronic and experimental music.
Little AlterBoy is an essential vocal processing plugin for producers and sound designers who want to push the boundaries of their vocal tracks. Its intuitive controls and creative potential make it a powerful tool for transforming vocals in innovative and unexpected ways.
| Feature | Description |
| Vocal Transformation Tools | Easy-to-use tools in one simple plugin for vocal transformation |
| Real-time Pitch and Formant Shifting | Alter pitch and gender of vocals in real-time |
| Mix Control for Instant Harmonies | Create instant vocal harmonies with the mix control |
| Robot Effects with Locked Pitch | Lock vocals to a pitch for classic robot effects |
| MIDI Controlled Vocoder Effects | Produce vocoder-like effects using MIDI control |
| Hard Tune Effect | Achieve the popular “hard tune” effect heard in pop and hip-hop |
| System Requirements: Mac | macOS 10.12 Sierra and later (Intel / M1 / M2 supported) (64-bit only); VST2, VST3, AU, AAX Native, AAX AudioSuite |
| System Requirements: Windows | Windows 7 and later (64-bit only); VST2, VST3, AAX Native, AAX AudioSuite |
| Supported Sample Rates (Min/Max) | Minimum – 44.1 kHz; Maximum – 192 kHz |
EchoBoy – The Ultimate Creative Delay Plugin for Modern Producers
Review: EchoBoy by Soundtoys is a powerful and versatile delay plugin that offers an extensive palette of echo and delay effects, perfect for music producers and sound designers looking to enhance their tracks with lush and immersive soundscapes. Combining the best of both vintage and modern delay units, EchoBoy is an essential tool for any digital audio workstation.
The plugin boasts an impressive collection of 30 built-in echo styles, including classic tape delays, vintage hardware, and studio echo chambers. These styles can be further customized using EchoBoy’s intuitive interface, which features a variety of controls such as feedback, mix, timing, and saturation to shape your sound with precision.
One of EchoBoy’s standout features is its ‘Rhythm Echo’ mode, which allows for complex multi-tap delay patterns and rhythmic echoes. This mode offers a range of creative possibilities, from classic dub-style echoes to intricate rhythmic patterns that can add depth and movement to your mix.
The ‘Tweak’ panel offers even more control over the plugin’s parameters, including diffusion, modulation, and filtering, allowing you to fine-tune your echoes and delays to suit your specific needs. Additionally, the ‘Style Edit’ menu lets you dive deeper into the characteristics of each echo style, providing ultimate control over the plugin’s sound.
In conclusion, EchoBoy is an indispensable delay plugin that caters to both the classic charm of vintage hardware and the creative possibilities of modern digital effects. Its rich variety of echo styles, intuitive controls, and unparalleled sound quality make it a go-to plugin for producers and sound designers seeking to elevate their tracks with immersive and captivating echo effects.
| Feature | Description |
| 30 Echo Styles | Choose from a variety of echo styles, including Echoplex, Space Echo, Memory Man, DM-2, and more |
| High-End Tape Sound | Warm up vocals with the Ampex ATR-102 tape sound model |
| Analog-sounding Effects | Control saturation, tape flutter, and diffusion for authentic analog effects |
| Stereo Delay Modes | Create rich stereo delays with Dual and Ping-Pong modes |
| True Groove Control | Adjust shuffle, swing, and accent for the only echo with true “groove” |
| Rhythm Echo Mode | Design unique rhythmic delay effects using Rhythm Echo mode |
| System Requirements: Mac | macOS 10.12 Sierra and later (Intel / M1 / M2 supported) (64-bit only); VST2, VST3, AU, AAX Native, AAX AudioSuite |
| System Requirements: Windows | Windows 7 and later (64-bit only); VST2, VST3, AAX Native, AAX AudioSuite |
| Supported Sample Rates (Min/Max) | Minimum – 44.1 kHz; Maximum – 192 kHz |
Devil-Loc Deluxe – Unleash the Beast for Crushing Compression and Limiting Effects
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Review: Devil-Loc Deluxe by Soundtoys is a unique and powerful audio leveling amplifier and compressor plugin that can add character, grit, and intensity to your tracks. Inspired by the legendary Shure Level-Loc, this plugin is perfect for producers and sound designers looking to infuse their audio with a distinctive, edgy sound.
Devil-Loc Deluxe offers two main controls: Crush, which adjusts the amount of compression and distortion, and Crunch, which controls the amount of harmonic distortion. These simple yet effective controls allow you to dial in the desired level of intensity, ranging from subtle warmth to full-on sonic destruction.
One of the standout features of Devil-Loc Deluxe is its ‘Darkness’ control, which acts as a high-cut filter for shaping the tone and taming harshness. This feature is particularly useful when working with aggressive compression settings or distorted signals, as it helps to retain clarity and avoid a harsh, brittle sound.
The ‘Release’ knob lets you set the release time of the compression, allowing for a wide range of dynamic responses. For added flexibility, Devil-Loc Deluxe also includes a mix control, enabling you to blend the wet and dry signals for parallel processing.
In addition to its core functionality, Devil-Loc Deluxe includes a ‘Deluxe-only’ feature called ‘Devil’ mode, which unlocks extra compression and distortion for even more extreme results. This mode is perfect for those seeking to push the boundaries of sonic experimentation and create truly unique textures and effects.
Ultimately, Devil-Loc Deluxe is an invaluable tool for producers and sound designers looking for a powerful, versatile, and characterful compressor/limiter plugin. With its simple yet effective controls, diverse range of compression and distortion capabilities, and ability to add warmth and intensity to any audio signal, Devil-Loc Deluxe is a must-have for those seeking to inject their tracks with a distinctive, edgy vibe.
| Feature | Description |
| Extreme Compression Effect | Creates huge drum sounds like nothing else |
| Mix Control | Dial in the perfect balance of grit and ambience |
| Darkness Control | Shape the tone and roll off crunchy highs for a warmer sound |
| Selectable Release Times | Choose between fast and slow release times for added variety and control |
| System Requirements: Mac | macOS 10.12 Sierra and later (Intel / M1 / M2 supported) (64-bit only); VST2, VST3, AU, AAX Native, AAX AudioSuite |
| System Requirements: Windows | Windows 7 and later (64-bit only); VST2, VST3, AAX Native, AAX AudioSuite |
| Supported Sample Rates (Min/Max) | Minimum – 44.1 kHz; Maximum – 192 kHz |
FilterFreak – Get Your Groove on with Soundtoys’ Dynamic Analog Filter Plugin
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Review: FilterFreak by Soundtoys is an incredibly versatile and dynamic analog filter plugin that offers a wide array of creative possibilities for producers and sound designers. With its authentic emulation of classic analog filters and extensive modulation capabilities, FilterFreak allows you to add movement, warmth, and character to your tracks.
At the heart of FilterFreak is its meticulously crafted analog filter model, which captures the warmth, resonance, and non-linearities of vintage hardware filters. With a choice of low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and band-reject filter modes, you can easily sculpt the perfect sound for your mix.
The plugin’s extensive modulation options take it to the next level, allowing you to create rhythmic filter effects, evolving soundscapes, and everything in between. The built-in envelope follower, LFO, and step sequencer provide a wealth of modulation possibilities, while the intuitive modulation controls make it easy to dial in the exact effect you desire.
FilterFreak’s ‘Rhythm Mode’ is a standout feature that allows you to create complex rhythmic filter patterns, giving your tracks a unique and engaging groove. With adjustable shuffle, swing, and accent settings, you can quickly develop your own signature filter effects that move and breathe with your music.
One of the most powerful aspects of FilterFreak is its dual-band mode, which lets you apply two separate filters simultaneously. This opens up a world of creative options, from subtle stereo widening to extreme frequency carving and more.
For added flexibility, FilterFreak also includes a mix control, enabling you to blend the wet and dry signals for parallel processing. This is particularly useful for maintaining the integrity of your original sound while still adding the desired amount of filtering effect.
FilterFreak is a powerful, versatile, and inspiring analog filter plugin that offers a wealth of creative possibilities. With its authentic filter models, extensive modulation options, and easy-to-use interface, FilterFreak is a must-have plugin for anyone looking to inject their tracks with warmth, character, and rhythmic movement.
| Feature | Description |
| Filter Types | Capture the sound of classic resonant filters with extended control and flexibility |
| Applications | Funk up guitar, fatten bass, reshape drums, sweep synths, and freak out vocals |
| Filter Modes | Choose from one filter or two that can be used in series or parallel |
| Filter Configurations | Select highpass, lowpass, bandpass, and band-reject modes with 2 to 8 poles |
| Effects | Add synth-like resonant sweeps or classic wah-wah tones to your tracks |
| Advanced Effects | Create funky auto-wah, envelope follower, and sample-and-hold effects |
| Saturation Styles | Grunge things up with 7 different analog saturation styles |
| Rhythm Editor | Construct intricate rhythmic filter sequences |
| Shape Editor | Design your own LFO shapes |
| System Requirements – Mac | macOS 10.12 Sierra and later (Intel / M1 / M2 Apple Silicon supported) (64-bit only); VST2, VST3, AU, AAX Native, AAX AudioSuite |
| System Requirements – Windows | Windows 7 and later (64-bit only); VST2, VST3, AAX Native, AAX AudioSuite |
| Supported Sample Rates | Minimum – 44.1 kHz; Maximum – 192 kHz |
Final Thoughts
Soundtoys plugins are a must-have for any music producer or sound engineer looking to add depth, warmth, and character to their tracks. Whether you’re seeking aggressive compression, funky filter effects, or unique vocal processing capabilities, Soundtoys has got you covered. The five plugins we’ve covered – Decapitator, Little AlterBoy, EchoBoy, Devil-Loc Deluxe, and FilterFreak – are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the power and versatility of Soundtoys plugins.
FAQ
Is there a Soundtoys student discount available?
Yes, Soundtoys offers a student discount for eligible students. To apply for the discount, you’ll need to provide proof of your current enrollment at an accredited educational institution.
What is the Little MicroShift plugin?
Little MicroShift is a streamlined version of the Soundtoys MicroShift plugin, designed for quick and easy stereo widening and pitch-shifting effects.
What are Soundtoys Native Effects?
Soundtoys Native Effects is a collection of Soundtoys plugins that are designed to work seamlessly within your digital audio workstation (DAW) as native plugins.
Where can I find Soundtoys free plugins?
Soundtoys occasionally offers free plugins on their website, often during promotional events or as limited-time offers. Keep an eye on the Soundtoys website and their social media channels for announcements about free plugins.
Is Soundtoys compatible with the Apple M1 chip?
Yes, Soundtoys plugins are compatible with the Apple M1 chip, ensuring smooth performance and integration with your macOS system.
Which are the best Soundtoys plugins?
The best Soundtoys plugins depend on your specific needs and preferences. Popular choices include Decapitator, EchoBoy, Little AlterBoy, and Crystallizer. Experiment with different plugins to find the ones that best suit your style and workflow.
What is included in the Soundtoys Plugins Bundle?
The Soundtoys Bundle, also known as Soundtoys 5, is a comprehensive collection of all Soundtoys plugins, offering an extensive range of audio manipulation tools for producers and sound designers.
What is the Soundtoys Effect Rack?
The Soundtoys Effect Rack is a creative multi-effects system that allows you to combine and customize Soundtoys effects within a single plugin. It offers a flexible way to create complex effect chains and streamline your workflow.
When can I find Soundtoys on sale?
Soundtoys plugins and bundles are occasionally available at discounted prices during special promotions, holiday sales, and other events. Keep an eye on the Soundtoys website and their social media channels for updates on sales and promotions.
Plugin Boutique also run sales on Soundtoys Plugins
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