I'm trying to build a collection of must-have free VST instruments that can cover various genres. What are your go-to free virtual instrument plugins for different styles? Looking for everything from free piano and keyboard VSTs to free bass guitar plugins and free drum machine VST plugins. I do a lot of cinematic work so free orchestral VST plugins are also high on my list. What instruments do you find yourself reaching for most often that don't cost a dime?
For different genres, here are my must-have free VST instruments: For electronic - Vital and Surge XT. For hip-hop - Sitala for drums and LABS for instruments. For rock - Ample Bass P Lite II for bass and Spitfire LABS guitars. For cinematic - BBC Symphony Orchestra Discover and Piano in 162. These free virtual instrument plugins cover a lot of ground without costing anything.
I'd add Dexed for FM synthesis (great for 80s sounds and modern electronic), and Helm for subtractive synthesis. For free piano and keyboard VSTs, the Keyzone Classic is surprisingly good. And for free bass guitar plugins, the Ample Bass P Lite II is my go-to. These are all must-have free VST instruments that I use regularly across different projects.