Prepare to unleash the raw power of virtual metal guitar shredding with our meticulously curated selection of the finest virtual instrument plugins (VSTs). These technological marvels empower you to transform your digital audio workstation into a sonic forge, where you can craft thunderous riffs, blazing solos, and earth-shattering breakdowns that will leave your audience craving more.
Whether you’re a seasoned metal maestro or an aspiring riffmaster, our comprehensive guide will navigate you through the vast landscape of metal guitar VSTs. From the punishing precision of Neural DSP’s Archetype: Abasi to the versatile versatility of Bias FX 2 Elite, we’ll delve into the unique strengths and capabilities of each plugin. Our expert insights will help you identify the VSTs that align perfectly with your musical vision and technical prowess.
As we embark on this sonic exploration, you’ll discover an array of VSTs tailored to specific subgenres of metal. For those who revel in the brutality of death metal, we’ll introduce you to the bone-crushing might of GetGood Drums’ Modern & Massive pack. If your heart beats to the rhythm of classic heavy metal, you’ll find solace in the timeless tones of Overloud’s TH3 Heavy Hitters. And for those who dare to venture into the experimental realm, we’ll unveil the boundless possibilities of the experimental guitar virtuoso, Neural DSP’s Quad Cortex.
The Core Essentials: Top-Tier Metal Guitar VSTs for Flawless Performances
Neural DSP Archetype: Gojira
Neural DSP Archetype: Gojira is an absolute powerhouse in the realm of metal guitar VSTs. This meticulously crafted plugin captures the thunderous tones and colossal riffs of the legendary Gojira. With its intuitive interface and authentic sonic profile, the Archetype: Gojira empowers guitarists with an arsenal of heavy-hitting distortion, soaring leads, and thunderous rhythms. Whether you’re conjuring crushing breakdowns or soaring melodic solos, this VST delivers the raw power and precision required for a truly immersive metal experience.
Features:
- Accurately modeled after the signature tones of Gojira’s guitarists
- Versatile amp and cabinet emulations for a wide range of metal subgenres
- Exhaustive distortion options tailored to achieve heavy, saturated tones
li>Preset library curated by Gojira themselves, providing instant access to their iconic sound
Shredding with Precision: VSTs Designed for Speed and Accuracy
For guitarists who crave the scorching speed and pinpoint accuracy of metal shredding, there are a range of VSTs that cater specifically to their needs. These plugins offer a plethora of features tailored to the nuances of metal guitar playing, ensuring a seamless shredding experience.
VSTs for Metal Shredding
Here’s a roundup of some of the top VSTs for metal guitarists who demand precision and speed:
TABLE:
| Plugin | Features | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Neural DSP Archetype: Gojira | – Emulates the iconic tone of guitarist Joe Duplantier – Captures the brutality and precision of the band’s signature sound |
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| Fractal Audio FM3 | – Massive amp and effects library – Industry-leading in terms of versatility and accuracy |
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| Positive Grid Bias FX 2 | – Advanced tone-shaping tools – Extensive collection of high-quality amps and effects – Allows for deep customization and flexibility |
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| Overloud TH-U | – Hyper-realistic amp and cabinet emulation – Intuitive interface for quick and easy tweaking – Perfect for capturing a wide range of metal tones |
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| Line 6 Helix Native | – Comprehensive collection of models – Multi-effects processor with a user-friendly workflow – Ideal for building complex and intricate effects chains |
| Features |
|---|
| Dual-channel amplifier model |
| Cabinet simulations |
| Extensive effects section |
| Preset library |
Unveiling the Melodic Wonders: VSTs for Haunting and Emotive Melodies
Embertone – Tetra
Tetra is a virtual instrument that captures the essence of classic string ensembles. With its intuitive interface, you can create lush and expressive melodies that evoke a sense of longing and introspection.
Audio Imperia – Nucleus
Nucleus is a cinematic string library that offers a wide range of articulations, from delicate sustains to dramatic tremolos. Its robust sound design and intuitive controls make it ideal for crafting melodies that evoke a sense of wonder and mystery.
Spitfire Audio – Albion One
Albion One is a versatile orchestral library that includes a range of string sections, as well as wind and brass instruments. Its sample quality and expressive performance options allow you to create melodies that are both haunting and beautiful.
MODO Bass by IK Multimedia
MODO Bass is a physical modeling bass guitar that offers the warmth, punch, and articulation of a real bass guitar. With its advanced fretboard mapping and pickup control, you can create a wide range of melodies, from catchy basslines to ethereal drones.
| Feature | Embertone – Tetra | Audio Imperia – Nucleus | Spitfire Audio – Albion One | MODO Bass by IK Multimedia |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| String Ensemble | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Realistic Articulations | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Intuitive Interface | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Cinematic Sound Design | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Bass Guitar Modeling | No | No | No | Yes |
Beyond the Norm: VSTs Exploring Unique and Experimental Metal Sounds
AVR’s VMetal Amp: The Edge of Brutality
AVR’s VMetal Amp provides an unparalleled sonic assault. Its four meticulously modeled amps and sinister stompboxes let you craft crushing tones that push the boundaries of aggression. Unleash a torrent of searing distortion, piercing highs, and bowel-shaking lows, leaving your riffs with an unyielding impact.
Nembrini Audio’s Duality: Melodic Madness
Nembrini Audio’s Duality delves into the realm of atmospheric and melodic metal. Its synth engine combines with devastating guitar amp sims to create a soundscape of soaring leads and haunting atmospheres. Experiment with ethereal delays, lush reverbs, and soaring synth lines to transcend the ordinary and forge a new sonic vision.
Kuassa’s Amplifikation Metal Amp: Anarchy in the Amp
Kuassa’s Amplifikation Metal Amp is an arsenal of savagery. With its eight high-gain amps and a plethora of effects, it empowers you to shatter sonic barriers. Sculpt blistering leads, thunderous rhythm guitars, and experimental soundscapes that will leave a lasting imprint on your audience’s consciousness.
Neural DSP’s Archetype: Gojira: The Titans of Tone
Neural DSP’s Archetype: Gojira is the embodiment of the legendary band’s signature sound. This VST faithfully replicates the rig of Joe Duplantier and Mario Duplantier, allowing you to wield their earth-shattering tones. Immerse yourself in a sonic vortex of crushing riffs, piercing leads, and atmospheric cleans, tailor-made for decimating the stage.
Mercuriall Audio’s Caline Core: The Embodiment of Experimentalism
Mercuriall Audio’s Caline Core defies categorization, thrusting you into a realm of sonic exploration. Its hybrid amplifier engine and unique effects allow you to shape otherworldly soundscapes that transcend the boundaries of metal. Experiment with unconventional tunings, noise-infused textures, and experimental effects to push the limits of sonic innovation.
| VST | Key Features |
|---|---|
| AVR’s VMetal Amp | – Four meticulously modeled amps – Sinister stompboxes – Crushing distortion and piercing highs |
| Nembrini Audio’s Duality | – Synth engine and devastating guitar amp sims – Ethereal delays and lush reverbs – Soaring synth lines for haunting atmospheres |
| Kuassa’s Amplifikation Metal Amp | – Eight high-gain amps – Eight high-gain amps – Thunderous rhythm guitars and experimental soundscapes |
| Neural DSP’s Archetype: Gojira | – Faithfully replicated rig of Joe and Mario Duplantier – Earth-shattering tones – Crushing riffs and piercing leads |
| Mercuriall Audio’s Caline Core | – Hybrid amplifier engine and unique effects – Unconventional tunings and noise-infused textures – Experimental effects for pushing sonic boundaries |
Digital Distortion: VSTs for Razor-Sharp and Aggressive Tones
When it comes to achieving razor-sharp and aggressive metal guitar tones, digital distortion VSTs play a crucial role. These software-based processors provide a vast array of distortion algorithms and customization options, allowing guitarists to shape their sound with precision.
IK Multimedia AmpliTube 5 Metal
IK Multimedia’s AmpliTube 5 Metal is a comprehensive distortion VST that offers 10 meticulously modeled guitar amplifiers and numerous effects pedals. Its advanced Cab Room feature allows for in-depth cabinet and microphone customization, ensuring a lifelike playing experience.
Neural DSP Fortin Nameless
Neural DSP Fortin Nameless is renowned for its ultra-high gain capabilities that deliver crushing distortion with surgical precision. Its intuitive interface and expansive tone-sculpting options make it an ideal choice for guitarists seeking aggressive and modern metal tones.
Positive Grid Bias FX 2 Metal
Positive Grid Bias FX 2 Metal is a versatile distortion VST that combines realistic amplifier modeling with advanced virtual effects. Its Dual Amp Match technology allows you to blend and combine the characteristics of different amplifiers, resulting in unique and powerful distortion tones.
Kazrog Crucifier
Kazrog Crucifier is a unique distortion VST that focuses on delivering authentic and organic distortion textures. Its innovative algorithm emulates the response of real-world amplifiers, providing a wide range of distortion options that cater to various metal styles.
Softube Saturation Knob
Softube Saturation Knob is a straightforward distortion VST that offers instant gratification with its single-knob interface. Simply turn the knob to add warmth, overdrive, or full-blown distortion to your guitar signal, creating a versatile range of tones.
Waves GTR3
Waves GTR3 is a comprehensive guitar tone suite that includes a dedicated distortion module. Its MultiStomp feature allows for unlimited stacking of distortion and other effects, enabling guitarists to experiment with a limitless range of aggressive tones.
| VST | Highlight |
|---|---|
| IK Multimedia AmpliTube 5 Metal | Detailed amplifier modeling and extensive customization options |
| Neural DSP Fortin Nameless | Ultra-high gain capabilities and surgical precision |
| Positive Grid Bias FX 2 Metal | Versatile amplifier modeling and virtual effects with Dual Amp Match technology |
| Kazrog Crucifier | Authentic and organic distortion textures |
| Softube Saturation Knob | Straightforward and instant gratification with a single-knob interface |
| Waves GTR3 | Comprehensive tone suite with unlimited distortion and effects stacking |
The Atmosphere Architects: VSTs for Creating Eerie and Ambiguous Ambiences
When conjuring haunting and enigmatic atmospheres in your metal productions, a specialized arsenal of VSTs is essential. From shimmering soundscapes to spine-tingling effects, these tools empower you to craft a sonic landscape that captivates and unsettles.
1. ValhallaDSP ValhallaSuperMassive
Harness the power of reverberation with ValhallaDSP ValhallaSuperMassive. Its immense halls and ethereal textures create a sense of vastness and otherworldliness, making it a go-to for atmospheric metal.
2. Native Instruments Reaktor Prism
Experiment with a kaleidoscope of evolving soundscapes using Native Instruments Reaktor Prism. Its granular synthesis and morphing capabilities conjure shimmering, dissonant ambiences that evoke a sense of unease.
3. Output Portal
Unleash the sonic potential of sound design with Output Portal. Its vast library of evolving textures, drones, and stingers offers a limitless palette for creating haunting and immersive soundscapes.
4. Arturia Pigments
Dive into the realm of hybrid synthesis with Arturia Pigments. Its unique blend of virtual analog and wavetable engines allows for the creation of otherworldly pads, swirling atmospheres, and spine-tingling leads.
5. Omnisphere 2
Explore a universe of sonic possibilities with Omnisphere 2. Its vast collection of atmospheric presets, organic textures, and ethereal soundscapes provides an endless source of inspiration for creating eerie and ambiguous ambiences.
6. FabFilter Pro-Q 3
Precisely shape the spectral balance of your ambiences with FabFilter Pro-Q 3. Its advanced EQ capabilities and surgical precision ensure maximum control over the tonal characteristics of your soundscapes.
7. ValhallaDSP ValhallaRoom
Embrace the immersive realism of natural room acoustics with ValhallaDSP ValhallaRoom. Its meticulously crafted reverb algorithms simulate a variety of room environments, adding authenticity and depth to your atmospheric creations.
| VST | Features |
|---|---|
| ValhallaDSP ValhallaSuperMassive | • Enormous halls • Ethereal textures • Vastness and otherworldliness |
| Native Instruments Reaktor Prism | • Granular synthesis • Morphing capabilities • Shimmering, dissonant ambiences |
| Output Portal | • Evolving textures • Drones • Stingers • Haunting and immersive soundscapes |
The Ultimate Effects Suite: VSTs Combining Endless Sonic Possibilities
Introducing the Symphony of Sonics: Explore the Top Metal Guitars VSTs Embodied by Legendary Brands
Aural Ecstasy Awaits: Unveiling Line 6 Helix Native
Immerse yourself in the sonic haven crafted by Line 6, where the Helix Native VST reigns supreme. This illustrious plugin encapsulates the essence of their renowned Helix hardware, bestowing you with a universe of authentic guitar tones and effects. Harness the might of its intuitive interface, meticulously tailored to empower your creative prowess with effortless ease.
Embark on a Sonic Odyssey with Neural DSP Fortin NTS
Unleash the raw sonic potency of the Neural DSP Fortin NTS VST. This digital masterpiece emulates the formidable Fortin Amps with unwavering accuracy, granting you access to a vast array of unparalleled metal guitar tones. Embrace the visceral impact of its meticulously modeled gain stages, delivering an unparalleled level of tonal versatility that unlocks the gateway to sonic exploration.
Delve into the Sonic Sanctuary of Waves GTR3
Waves has conjured a symphony of possibilities with their GTR3 VST. This extraordinary plugin boasts an awe-inspiring collection of amplifiers, cabinets, and stompboxes, curated to cater to every nuanced desire of metal guitarists. Dive into its comprehensive sound library, boasting both classic and modern tones, and witness the transformative power it bestows upon your sonic creations.
Awaken the Sonic Colossus: Softube Amp Room
Embrace the sonic grandeur of the Softube Amp Room VST. This behemoth of a plugin harnesses the essence of vintage guitar amplifiers, granting you unparalleled access to their timeless charm and undeniable power. Experience the authenticity of its meticulously modeled tube-driven circuits, breathing life into your riffs with unprecedented warmth and character.
Unleash the Sonic Fury with Positive Grid Bias FX 2
Positive Grid’s Bias FX 2 VST stands as a beacon of sonic innovation, boasting an unparalleled collection of meticulously modeled guitar amplifiers, pedals, and effects. Its groundbreaking Neural Network Technology empowers you with a limitless sonic palette, allowing your creativity to soar effortlessly to new heights.
Immerse Yourself in Sonic Superiority: IK Multimedia AmpliTube 5
IK Multimedia’s AmpliTube 5 VST unveils a realm of sonic wonders, featuring an extraordinary array of virtual amplifiers, stompboxes, and microphones. Its meticulous attention to detail ensures that every component replicates its real-world counterpart with astonishing accuracy, providing you with a truly immersive and inspiring playing experience.
Forge Sonic Legends with Plugin Alliance Brainworx bx_rockrack V3
Witness the sonic supremacy of Plugin Alliance Brainworx bx_rockrack V3 VST. This esteemed plugin packages a formidable arsenal of distortion pedals, amplifiers, and cabinets, each meticulously crafted to provide an unparalleled metal guitar experience. Prepare to unleash the full fury of your riffs with its unrelenting power and precision.
Conjure Sonic Sorcery with JST Harrison’s Harrison Mixbus 32C
JST Harrison’s Harrison Mixbus 32C VST emerges as a sonic sorcerer’s companion. This multifaceted plugin combines the warmth of analog circuitry with the unparalleled power of digital technology, empowering you to sculpt your metal guitar tracks to perfection. Experience the refinement of its EQs, compressors, and reverbs, all meticulously tuned to complement the unique characteristics of the electric guitar.
Masterclass in Amp Simulation: VSTs Emulating Iconic Metal Amp Tones
Emulating the Mighty Marshall JCM800
The JCM800 is a legendary amp renowned for its roaring, aggressive tone. VSTs like the Ignite Amps Emissary and IK Multimedia’s AmpliTube Jimi Hendrix Authentic deliver authentic emulations, capturing the amp’s classic gain structure and harmonic richness.
Unlocking the Fury of the Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier
The Dual Rectifier is a modern metal workhorse known for its versatile gain range. VSTs such as the Neural DSP Gojira and Mercuriall Audio’s Euphoria provide accurate recreations, allowing you to conjure up tight, brutal chugs and soaring solos.
Taming the Wild Peavey 5150
The 5150 is a high-gain beast that has shaped the sound of countless metal bands. VSTs like Positive Grid’s Bias FX 2 and Overloud’s TH-U deliver faithful simulations, offering a wide range of tones from saturated distortion to crystal-clear cleans.
Resurrecting the Randall RG Series
The RG Series is a versatile amp line known for its heavy, punchy sound. VSTs such as the STL Tones AmpHub and Audio Assault’s HellBeast deliver authentic emulations, capturing the amp’s tight low-end and searing high-gain capabilities.
Honoring the Timeless Soldano SLO-100
The SLO-100 is a boutique amp prized for its warm, articulate overdrive. VSTs like the Neural DSP Granophyre and Tonehub’s Overdrive Special deliver precise emulations, allowing you to explore its dynamic gain range and lush harmonics.
Conjuring the Evil Diezel VH4
The VH4 is a high-end amp known for its extreme gain and crystal-clear articulation. VSTs like the Diezel Amplifikation VH4 and Horizon Devices’ Precision Drive deliver meticulously emulated tones, allowing you to channel the amp’s immense power and surgical precision.
Embracing the Brutality of the ENGL Powerball
The Powerball is a modern metal amp that delivers a colossal wall of sound. VSTs like the Neural DSP Abasi and Overloud’s RECabinet 4×12 ENGL Powerball offer authentic emulations, capturing the amp’s monstrous low-end and soaring harmonics.
Evocative Tones with the EVH 5150 III
The 5150 III is a third-generation amp in the 5150 family, offering a refined and versatile tone. VSTs like the Line 6 Helix and Positive Grid’s BIAS FX 2 accurately recreate its distinct sound, providing a wide range of options for modern metal to classic rock.
Unlocking the Rawness of the Orange Rockerverb 100 MKIII
The Rockerverb 100 MKIII is a British amp known for its snarling, vintage-inspired tone. VSTs like the Brainworx bx_rockerverb 100 and Neural DSP’s Archetype: Plini deliver authentic emulations, capturing the amp’s dynamic range from shimmering cleans to saturated overdrive.
The Workstation Warriors: All-in-One VSTs for Complete Metal Guitar Production
1. Neural DSP Archetype: Plini
This VST captivates with its pristine clean tones, soaring leads, and dynamic overdrive capabilities, providing a comprehensive toolkit for modern metal and progressive rock guitarists.
2. Neural DSP Archetype: Cory Wong
Designed in collaboration with the funk maestro, this VST excels in clean, spanky tones, delivering a wide range of sparkling chords and smooth, expressive solos.
3. Nolly GetGoodDrums Diablo
Heralded as one of the most powerful metal-oriented VSTs, Diablo offers a staggering collection of ultra-realistic drums, guitars, and bass guitar, catering to the needs of heavy metal and progressive rock producers.
4. Waves GTR Solo
A comprehensive guitar modeling solution, Waves GTR Solo simulates a vast array of classic and modern guitar amps, stompboxes, and cabinets, empowering you to craft a diverse range of metal guitar tones.
5. Native Instruments Guitar Rig 6 Pro
A long-standing industry standard, Guitar Rig 6 Pro unveils an extensive collection of amps, effects, and professional presets, making it an indispensable choice for metal guitarists of all levels.
6. Presonus Ampire
Presonus Ampire boasts an impressive roster of realistic amp models, from vintage classics to high-gain monsters, along with a powerful preset manager that simplifies tone sculpting for metal guitarists.
7. IK Multimedia AmpliTube 5 Max
AmpliTube 5 Max is a modular guitar amp and effects platform that provides an overwhelming selection of virtual gear, allowing you to build custom signal chains and access a vast library of presets tailored for metal.
8. Line 6 Helix Native
Modeled after the renowned Helix hardware processor, Line 6 Helix Native offers an extensive collection of virtual amplifiers, cabinets, and effects, catering to the diverse needs of metal guitarists.
9. Plugin Alliance Brainworx bx_rockrack V3
bx_rockrack V3 is a comprehensive guitar rack plugin suite that combines a range of high-quality amps, cabinets, and stompboxes, providing a versatile toolkit for crafting heavy guitar tones.
10. Softube Metal Amp Room
Exclusively focused on high-gain metal guitar tones, Softube Metal Amp Room emulates the sound and feel of legendary metal amps and cabs, delivering a raw, aggressive character that is perfect for thrash, death, and black metal.
The Best Metal Guitar VSTs
Metal guitarists have a wide range of VSTs to choose from, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some of the most popular metal guitar VSTs include:
- Ample Metal Vandal: This VST is known for its realistic sound and wide range of presets. It is also very affordable, making it a great choice for budget-minded metal guitarists.
- Neural DSP Petrucci: This VST is designed to emulate the sound of John Petrucci’s guitars and amps. It is a very versatile VST that can be used for a wide range of metal styles.
- Fracture AXE-FX: This VST is one of the most realistic guitar VSTs available. It offers a huge range of presets and customization options, making it a great choice for experienced metal guitarists.
- IK Multimedia AmpliTube 5: This VST is a complete guitar rig in a box. It includes a wide range of amps, cabinets, and effects. It is a great choice for metal guitarists who want a versatile and easy-to-use VST.
- Positive Grid Bias FX 2: This VST is a powerful guitar amp and effects processor. It offers a huge range of presets and customization options, making it a great choice for experienced metal guitarists.
People Also Ask
Which metal guitar VST is the best?
The best metal guitar VST depends on your individual needs and preferences. However, some of the most popular metal guitar VSTs include Ample Metal Vandal, Neural DSP Petrucci, Fracture AXE-FX, IK Multimedia AmpliTube 5, and Positive Grid Bias FX 2.
What are the best free metal guitar VSTs?
There are a few free metal guitar VSTs available. Some of the most popular free metal guitar VSTs include LePou LeCab 2, Ignite Amps Emissary, and Metal Amp Room.
How can I get a good metal guitar sound?
To get a good metal guitar sound, you will need to use a VST that is designed for metal. You will also need to experiment with different settings and presets to find the sound that you like. Additionally, you may want to use a compressor and EQ to further shape your sound.
