Drum and percussion plugins

Free drum plugins

Free to download and try on your kit or your drum recordings.

The first plugins are in the works. Write to me to hear when they are out.

Full versions

Every feature, for the stage and the studio.

The first plugins are in the works. Write to me to hear when they are out.

Frequently asked questions

What format are the plugins: VST3, AU or AAX?

They are VST3 plugins for Mac and Windows and AU (Audio Unit) plugins for Mac. CLAP and a standalone version, which runs without a DAW, are planned too. There is no AAX version for Pro Tools yet.

Which DAWs do they work with?

Any DAW that loads VST3 or AU plugins: Ableton Live (Intro and Standard too, no Max for Live needed), Logic Pro, GarageBand, Cubase, Nuendo, FL Studio, Bitwig Studio, Reaper, Studio One (now Fender Studio Pro), Reason and Digital Performer. Not Pro Tools for now, as it only loads AAX plugins.

Do they work on Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3, M4) and on Windows?

Yes. On Mac they run natively on both Apple Silicon and Intel processors, from macOS 11 Big Sur onwards. On Windows they need 64-bit Windows 10 or 11.

Do they work on Linux?

It is planned: VST3, CLAP and LV2 for DAWs that run on Linux, such as Reaper, Bitwig Studio and Ardour.

Do I need triggers or an electronic drum kit?

No. The plugins work on the audio of your acoustic drum microphones or on drum tracks you have already recorded, and they work with percussion and samples too.

How do I install a VST3 plugin?

Copy the file into the plugin folder and reopen your DAW. On Mac the folder is Macintosh HD › Library › Audio › Plug-Ins › VST3; on Windows it is C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3. Every plugin comes with its own instructions.

What is the difference between the free and the full version?

The free version holds the core of the plugin; the full one adds the features for live use and for the whole kit. Every plugin page has a comparison table.

When are they coming out and how much will they cost?

The first plugins are in development. Release date and price will be on each plugin’s page; meanwhile you can write to me to hear when they are out.

Drum plugins by Paolo Gaudio, drummer and sound designerDrum pluginsContactPrivacy