The Best Free VST Plugins for Mastering in FL Studio 11
Introduction to FL Studio 11
First of all, I would recommend upgrading to the latest version of FL Studio, which is now FL Studio 22. However, for those who are still using FL Studio 11, there are several excellent free VST plugins that can help you master your tracks. In this guide, we'll explore the best free VSTs you can use, as well as discuss the importance of mastering in your music production workflow.
Why Mastering is Important in Music Production
Mixing and mastering are crucial steps in the music production process. Mixing ensures that all elements in a track are perfectly balanced and harmonious, while mastering fine-tunes and prepares the final audio for distribution. While FL Studio 11 offers built-in tools like Maximus and Multiband Compressor, there are also several well-regarded free VST plugins that can enhance your mastering workflow.
Exploring Free Mastering Plugins
When it comes to free mastering VST plugins, the options are not as extensive as those available for plugins for mixing. However, some free VSTs have gained a strong reputation among producers and sound engineers. Here are some of the best free VST plugins for mastering in FL Studio 11:
1. Maximus (Built-in Plugin)
Maximus is a powerful loudness maximizer and stereo imager that comes bundled with FL Studio 11. This plugin is designed to enhance the overall sound, increase loudness, and add stereo width to your tracks. Maximus is particularly useful for final polish before exporting your tracks. While it is a powerful tool, keep in mind that excessive use can lead to audio distortion.
2. Soundgoodizer (Built-in Plugin)
The Soundgoodizer is another built-in plugin in FL Studio 11 that provides mastering-grade EQ and compression. It offers a combination of parametric EQ, basic and advanced compression, and limiting. The Soundgoodizer is versatile and can be used to achieve a clean and polished sound, especially for vocal tracks.
3. SoX
SoX, or Sound eXchange, is a versatile command-line tool for processing audio files. While it is not a plugin that directly integrates with FL Studio, you can use SoX from within FL Studio to process audio files. SoX is highly customizable and can handle a wide range of audio editing tasks, from basic effects to complex audio processing. You can use SoX to apply EQ, apply compression, and even perform advanced effects like reverb and delay.
4. Elastik
While not a traditional mastering plugin, Elastik is a flexible library of high-quality samples and effects that can enhance the mastering process. Elastik includes a variety of instruments, drums, and other sounds that can be used to add texture and depth to your tracks. It also offers reverb and spatial effects, which can help achieve a more polished and professional sound.
5. Maximuss (External Plugin)
Maximuss is a free, open-source VST plugin designed for mastering. It is a less buggy version of the Maximus plugin found in FL Studio, offering similar features like loudness maximization, stereo imaging, and limiter. It's a lightweight and user-friendly tool that can be a good alternative to the built-in Maximus.
Choosing the Right Plugin for Your Needs
While there is no "one size fits all" solution when it comes to mastering, it's essential to choose a plugin that suits your specific requirements. For instance, if you are looking for something with high quality and advanced features, built-in plugins like Maximus and Soundgoodizer might be a good choice. If you prefer a more DIY approach, SoX and Elastik offer a lot of flexibility and customization options. Maximuss might be a good option for those who want to replicate the functionality of the built-in Maximus plugin without the potential issues.
Conclusion
While mastering is a complex process, FL Studio 11, along with its built-in plugins, offers several powerful tools to help you achieve your desired sound. Whether you are a seasoned producer or a newcomer to the world of music production, mastering is an essential step to ensure your tracks sound their best. By leveraging the free VSTs available, you can enhance your workflow and create professional-sounding music without breaking the bank.
Remember, mastering is a highly subjective process, and the "best" plugin will depend on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your track. Experiment with different plugins and techniques to find what works best for your unique sound.