In this article I wanted to go over some free Waveshapers I like to use to add a little flavor or cruch to the mix. These are great free VST’s that will give you a wider sonic tone to play with.

To start lets define what Waveshapers are and then below will be a list of a few free VST waveshapers I like.

In electronic music waveshaping is a type of distortion synthesis in which complex spectra are produced from simple tones by altering the shape of the waveforms. Waveshapers are just that, they reshape the waveform and create different sonic effects.

Cyanide

 

Cyanide is a great waveshaper that is simple to use and gives you some great control. The live preview also helps in your creative wave shaping needs.

Features:

  • Graphical wave shaper.
  • Pre/Post LP/HP filter.
  • 16x Oversampling option.
  • Output preview.
  • Wet/Dry mix.

jsCompShaper

The jsCompShaper is a great was to shape your waveform as well as add a little compression.

Yet another compressor, but this one has the ability to morph between soft-knee compression and waveshaping as desired. Furthermore, it provides pre-/post-emphasis filtering (similar to a side-chain filter) and a more analog-like attack. – http://electric-snow.net/plugins.html

Download at: http://electric-snow.net/plugins.html

LOFI Crusher and Waveshaper

Lofi can add some cool effects to your sound. By crushign and reshapping you can downgrade the tone of your audio and add some nice grit.

Features:

  • Downscaler (pitch shifting).
  • Crusher/resampler.
  • 12dB LP, BP or HP filter.
  • Waveshaper/distorter with 6 different wave shapes.
  • Random preset button.
  • Automation support.
  • Smooth fader control.

What is dominion?

If you were searching for a tool to shape the envelope of a signal, giving you total control of the signal’s attack & sustain phase, dominion is certainly something for you! ( http://www.digitalfishphones.com/main.php?item=2&subItem=4)

 

With these effects you can make some cool distortion. Adding waveshaping to your bass can also add a nice sonic imprint. Have fun with these vsts.