Pro Tools plug-ins are third-party programs that run inside Pro Tools, the industry standard for mixing and recording audio. They expand the native capabilities of the software, handling specific tasks from recording to editing to effects. You can use them to tweak reverb on percussion, add distortion to guitars, or fix a lead singer who is struggling with pitch.
Thousands of options exist. Here are five that stand out for specific jobs.
Digidesign Virtual Instrument Box Set for analog emulation and drums
This package from the makers of Pro Tools combines five virtual instrument plug-ins. Velvet gives you emulators of classic 1970s analog keyboards. The interface displays on-screen replicas of the original instruments, including all knobs and faders for customization.
Structure is a sampling workstation that includes five DVDs of sound files. Strike is a virtual drum machine preloaded with five high-definition kits. Each kit contains 12 instruments, and each instrument has 300 different samples.
How does Auto-Tune 4 correct vocal pitch?
Not every lead singer has perfect pitch. Auto-Tune 4 corrects vocal imperfections by automatically adjusting the track to the intended notes. If automatic mode isn’t enough, you can tweak notes individually using a virtual keyboard.
A graphical interface lets you visualize the vocal track. You can bump notes up or down without making the change obvious to the listener.
Why is Sonic NoNOISE essential for old analog recordings?
Sonic NoNOISE is critical for creating clean digital remasters of old analog recordings. It uses complex algorithms to detect hisses, clicks, and crackles that are not part of the intended recording.
You can let the software remove extraneous noise automatically. Or, you can use its waveform and frequency analysis tools to de-snap, de-crackle, and de-pop tracks yourself.
GRM Tools Classic RTAS Bundle for creative sound effects
This bundle contains eight separate plug-ins for adding effects to recorded sound. Using graphical interfaces, knobs, and faders, you can create sound shadows and Doppler effects. The result is noises that seem to whiz around the listener’s head.
This tool is excellent for DJs and sound designers looking for original effects.
Digidesign DV Toolkit 2 for film and video sound editors
Digidesign created this package specifically for film and video sound editors. It allows for 48 simultaneous stereo or mono tracks.
Key features include:
– Realistic emulation of reverb from filmed environments
– Elimination of unwanted background noise
– Time code synchronization
– Tools for precisely matching audio to video
