Santa’s Sleigh of Sound - Plugins as Presents
Intro
If Santa were a producer, mix engineer or recording artist his sleigh wouldn’t be full of toys - it would be stacked with plugins. As we head into Christmas, here’s a stocking-filler guide for anyone looking to surprise a music-maker with sonic gifts. Whether free, budget-friendly, or splurge-worthy, these plugins are the perfect way to wrap inspiration in a bow.
Freebies That Feel Like Gifts
Sometimes the best presents don’t cost a penny. These free plugins are like the chocolate coins at the bottom of your stocking - small but sweet:
• Valhalla Supermassive (Free) – A lush reverb/delay that turns any track into a winter wonderland.
• Spitfire Audio LABS (Part Free) – Constantly updated with creative instruments, from strings to quirky textures.
• TDR Nova (Free) – A dynamic EQ that’s as versatile as a Swiss Army knife.
Perfect for stuffing stockings without emptying wallets.
Budget-Friendly Magic (Under £50)
For those who want to spend a little, these plugins are the equivalent of cozy socks or a warm jumper—practical, comforting, and always welcome:
• Baby Audio TAIP (~£40) – An AI-driven tape saturation plugin that adds festive warmth to mixes.
• Soundtoys Little Plate (~£39) – A plate reverb that’s simple, lush, and timeless.
• XLN Audio Addictive Keys (~£49) – A piano plugin that feels like gathering around the family piano at Christmas.
These are affordable gifts that deliver big creative value.
Premium Presents for the Nice List
If you’re treating yourself - or a collaborator who’s been very good this year - these are the big-ticket items, the equivalent of finding a shiny new bike under the tree:
• FabFilter Pro-Q 4 (~£129) – The ultimate EQ, precise and powerful, like Santa’s workshop tools.
• iZotope Ozone 11 (~£199) – A mastering suite that wraps your mix like festive paper and ribbon.
• UAD LA-2A (~£149) – Classic compression that smooths vocals like mulled wine warms the soul.
Festive Wrap-Up
Plugins aren’t just tools—they’re sparks of inspiration. This Christmas, think of them as gifts that keep on giving, long after the decorations come down. And here’s a playful tip: swap your metronome click for sleigh bells this week - you’ll thank me later.