Finding good free VST distortion plugins is a bit complicated today.
About ten years ago, there were many different options. Today, algorithms have progressed so much that few free plugins can match the quality of paid plugins when it comes to distortion.
Undoubtedly because the entire market is focused on analog simulations: we are always looking for more realism, which can be difficult to program.
However, there are still some interesting options… and to save you from searching for hours, I’ve compiled my favorite free distortion plugins in this article.
Happy downloading! 🙂
1. Distox
Publisher: Analog Obsession
Format: VST, VST3, AU
You may know the brand Analog Obsession for its many free plugins! They regularly release new ones, and while the quantity might be intimidating, the quality is generally there.
This is typically the case for Distox, a saturation plugin that combines tube circuit simulation and solid-state saturation (with operational amplifiers).
The different built-in “modes” in the plugin allow you to switch between the various simulated electronic components.
Don’t forget, if needed, to click on the Analog Obsession logo to activate oversampling.
► Click here to download Distox
2. Camel Crusher
Publisher: CamelAudio
Format: VST, AU
Ah, Camel Crusher.
The graphical interface is small because the plugin is starting to age. It is indeed a “cult” distortion designed by CamelAudio, a well-known plugin brand acquired by Apple in 2015.
Fortunately, thanks to the Wayback Machine, the plugin is still accessible.
CamelCrusher includes two different distortions, Tube and Mech, which can be combined for a truly aggressive effect.
Very effective on guitars, drums, and electronic beats, the plugin also features a resonant low-pass filter and a compressor (try the phat mode!) that are convincing.
In short, a reference — and it has been for years, even though it’s not at all a subtle plugin.
► Click here to download Camel Crusher
3. Headcrusher Free
Publisher: Audio Assault
Format: VST, AU, RTAS (32 & 64 bits)
I hesitated a bit to include Headcrusher Free in this list, because while the plugin is (or rather was, as it is no longer officially available) really interesting, I’m usually not a big fan of Audio Assault plugins, which are not always well programmed.
However, Headcrusher Free is an exception: it is an effective distortion plugin inspired by the famous Decapitator from Soundtoys, though it has a very different sound.
It can be pushed to the extreme if needed, allowing you to literally crush your audio tracks with a certain versatility due to the built-in high-pass and low-pass filters and tone adjustment.
An effect to have in your toolbox!
► Click here to download Headcrusher Free
4. FuzzPlus 3
Publisher: Audio Damage
Format: VST, VST3, AU, AAX (32 & 64 bits)
FuzzPlus 3 is a simulation of a vintage distortion/fuzz pedal offered by the publisher Audio Damage, known especially for its very nice reverb EOS.
In addition to a terribly effective distortion circuit, FuzzPlus 3 includes a resonant low-pass filter inspired by the filters of the Korg MS-20 synthesizer and a feedback system that allows access to aggressive sounds.
Equipped with a modern, resizable graphical interface, this is a plugin to keep on hand, especially if you love fuzz.
It should be noted that the algorithm under the hood was developed with input from Sean Costello (ValhallaDSP) and Michael Hetrick (Unfiltered Audio). In other words, we are dealing with a completely professional plugin…
► Click here to download FuzzPlus 3
5. Krush
Publisher: Tritik
Format: VST, AU, AAX (32 & 64 bits)
The French publisher Tritik may not be very well known, but it produces quality plugins.
Among them is Krush, which I had already mentioned in my article on bitcrushers since it is halfway between these and distortion plugins.
While only one setting of the plugin is dedicated to distortion itself, Krush does include a number of features that allow you to saturate and distort your audio tracks very effectively.
In particular, we note the presence of a resonant filter as well as an LFO that allows modulation of any parameter in sync or not with your DAW.
In other words, an ideal plugin for all beatmakers…
► Click here to download Krush
6. Temper
Publisher: Creative Intent
Format: VST, VST3, AU (32 & 64 bits)
Temper is a nice distortion plugin that combines a saturation stage and a (apparently unique) phase distortion algorithm.
While the first will help you add warmth to your sounds in a relatively subtle way, the second will allow you to add real character to your instruments.
In addition, it includes a feedback circuit and a resonant low-pass filter for increased versatility.
► Click here to download Temper (go to the Plugins4Free site)
7. Gorgon
Publisher: Inear Display
Format: VST, AU (32 & 64 bits)
Of all this list of free distortion plugins, Gorgon is probably the most original — especially due to the fact that it is actually a multi-effect offering many possibilities.
Indeed, beyond aggressive distortion, Gorgon is an atypical plugin that also integrates:
- a FM Ring Modulator;
- a “Metalizer” delay;
- sample rate reduction options;
- filters
- and envelope-based modulation possibilities.
While it will undoubtedly be useful for sound design, Gorgon will allow you to drown your tracks in distortion regardless of the style you are targeting.
Note that the plugin is now considered “legacy” by the publisher, and a new version (paid) is available in the form of Glitchmachines Subvert.
► Click here to download Gorgon
8. ProF.E.T.
Publisher: Ignite Amps
Format: VST, VST3, AU (32 & 64 bits)
One way to access interesting distortions is to turn to plugins simulating guitar distortion pedals (or even amplifiers).
ProF.E.T. by Ignite Amps, the grand winner of the KVR Contest 2018, is one of those as it emulates a heavy sound effect pedal made by the same brand.
The tube-like saturation of ProF.E.T., although based on JFET transistors, is pleasant and musical. Four equalization settings and two “shape” modes will give you access to all kinds of sounds, from overdrive to raw distortion — although it is not subtle at all.
► Click here to download ProF.E.T.
9. Greed Smasher
Publisher: Mercuriall
Format: VST, AU, AAX (32 & 64 bits)
Another overdrive/distortion pedal in plugin format, the Greed Smasher from the very serious publisher Mercuriall.
Simulating the Mesa Boogie Grid Slammer, the plugin is light in terms of CPU load but provides a very high-quality sound.
Its use is also very simple, as it only includes three settings: level, gain, and tone — the latter allowing you to tilt the balance towards a darker sound or conversely more pronounced highs.
Not for every situation, but worth keeping on hand nonetheless!
► Click here to download Greed Smasher
10. Saturation Knob
Publisher: Softube
Format: VST, VST3, AU, AAX
I also listed the famous Saturation Knob by Softube in my article on the best free saturation plugins, but if pushed a bit, you can easily transform light saturation into aggressive distortion.
This plugin definitely has its place in this selection, especially since it is extremely easy to use: you just need to turn the central knob to increase the distortion.
That said, three distortion modes are available to adjust the character of the plugin to your needs, whether you want to thicken drums, saturate a bass, or add harmonics to a vocal track.
Keep it on hand!
► Click here to download Saturation Knob
To go further after free distortions…
There you go, you are now ready to saturate, to knead, to crush your signal under layers of distortion!
However, as there are of course not only distortions in mixing, I invite you to check out my other lists of free plugins… 🙂