01
Airwindows Consolidated
by Airwindows · All Airwindows effects in one plugin (open source)
Dozens of saturators and distortions in one free plugin. No modulation sequencer.
VST3AUCLAPLV2macOSWindowsLinux
Output Thermal · OutputFree alternatives to Output Thermal
Multi-stage distortion with movement, built for creative sound design. Here are 3 genuinely free options, ranked by how close they get.
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02
IVGI
by Klanghelm · Saturation / distortion
Quick, great-sounding saturation, from subtle to gritty.
VST2VST3AUAAXmacOSWindows
03
Kilohearts Essentials
by Kilohearts · Bundle of 30+ simple effects
Distortion, Bitcrush and Phase Distortion modules you can stack. No built-in modulation.
VST2VST3AUAAXmacOSWindowsNeeds free Kilohearts account
Free means free: no trials, no time limits, no demos. Some need a free account; we flag those. Spot something wrong or a better swap? Tell us.
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Waves J37 Tape
Waves · paid → 2 free swapsCHOW Tape ModelAirwindows Consolidated
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XLN Audio RC-20 Retro Color
XLN Audio · paid → 3 free swapsVinylCHOW Tape ModelKilohearts Essentials
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Dada Life Sausage Fattener
Dada Life · paid → 3 free swapsIVGISaturation KnobOTT
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D16 Group Decimort 2
D16 Group · paid → 2 free swapsTAL-BitcrusherKilohearts Essentials
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