Top 10 VST Plugins of 2025 (So Far)

As we enter the second half of the year, it’s time to take a look at the best VST plugins of 2025 that are shaping music production trends across genres. Whether you’re a bedroom producer or a professional engineer, these tools are helping to define modern sound design, mix engineering, and creative workflows. In this article, we break down the top 10 VST plugins of 2025 (so far) that every producer should know about. From game-changing synths to mixing essentials, each plugin here has proven its worth in studios around the world. 1. Arturia Pigments 5 Arturia’s Pigments continues to evolve, and version 5 makes it one of the most powerful and visually intuitive VST plugins of 2025. It now features a brand-new “Spectral Engine” and improved modulation routing that opens up endless possibilities for sound design. Why it’s one of the best VST plugins of 2025: 2. UAD Spark Native Bundle Universal Audio shocked the industry in late 2024 by fully embracing native plugin development. In 2025, their Spark Bundle includes top-tier emulations of analog compressors, EQs, and tape machines—all without the need for DSP hardware. Why it’s trending in 2025: 3. Baby Audio Transit A fresh entry making waves in 2025 is Baby Audio’s Transit. It’s a transition designer that allows you to automate complex build-ups, drops, and breakdowns with ease. Perfect for EDM, pop, and cinematic producers. Key Features: 4. Oeksound Bloom From the creators of Soothe and Spiff comes Bloom—a dynamic EQ tailored for mixing vocals and mastering. Already considered a must-have VST plugin of 2025, Bloom adds glue and clarity in seconds. Standout Aspects: 5. Spectrasonics Omnisphere 3 (Beta) Omnisphere 3 is still in its beta stage but has taken the producer world by storm. With modular synthesis, new granular tools, and deep sound source layering, it’s redefining what a soft synth can be. Why it ranks in the top VST plugins of 2025: 6. Kilohearts Phase Plant 2 Phase Plant 2 builds on its modular foundation and introduces real-time spectral editing, improved CPU efficiency, and AI-generated patch suggestions. What’s new in 2025: 7. FabFilter Pro-Q 4 FabFilter continues its reign with Pro-Q 4, the latest version of their industry-standard equalizer. This update introduces real-time AI EQ suggestions, a saturation module, and A/B referencing tools. Why producers love it in 2025: 8. Soundtoys Superplate An upgrade to their classic Little Plate, Soundtoys’ Superplate brings five different plate reverb models with modulation, pre-delay, and dynamic control. Great for: 9. Slate Digital MetaTune 2 Auto-tuning has never sounded smoother. MetaTune 2, the successor to Slate’s vocal tuning plugin, now includes formant shifting, multi-track linking, and genre-based tuning presets. Why it’s one of the must-have VST plugins of 2025: 10. XLN Audio XO 2 XO 2 continues to innovate drum production. Its AI-powered sample organization, genre tagging, and advanced beat programming tools make it a go-to for beatmakers. Why XO 2 stands out in 2025: Final Thoughts Whether you’re producing club bangers, cinematic scores, or commercial pop, the VST plugins of 2025 are offering more creativity, efficiency, and accessibility than ever. The rise of AI-assisted tools, enhanced UIs, and powerful synthesis engines has made 2025 a golden year for plugin innovation. Producers are always looking for ways to stand out, and these VST plugins of 2025 give you the edge. Stay ahead of the curve and upgrade your toolbox with these game-changers.
Serum 2: Everything You Need to Know About Xfer Records’ Exciting VST Update

Xfer Records has officially launched Serum 2, the eagerly awaited follow-up to their groundbreaking wavetable synthesizer. Known for reshaping music production and sound design practices globally, the original Serum swiftly became a must-have tool within EDM, pop, hip-hop, and numerous other musical genres. Now, with the arrival of this second generation, Xfer Records aims to push sonic boundaries further by integrating groundbreaking features that will elevate your music creation experience. What’s New in Serum 2? Expanded Oscillator Engine One of the major updates is its powerful, expanded oscillator engine, offering significant improvements and new sound-shaping possibilities: Advanced Modulation and Performance Controls Serum’s modulation system has received a significant boost: Enhanced Effects Rack The effects section has been significantly upgraded to deliver professional-grade processing: Serum 2 vs. Serum 1: What’s the Difference? Feature Serum 1 Serum 2 Oscillator Types Wavetable Wavetable, Multi-sample, Granular, Spectral Macro Controls 4 Controls 8 Controls Granular Synthesis Not available Available Multi-Sample Support Not available Fully supported Granular Oscillator Not available Included Spectral Oscillator Not available Included Built-in Arpeggiator No Yes FX Rack Enhancements Basic Advanced, more effects Factory Presets Limited Extensive (over 288 new wavetables and presets) Pricing and Availability Xfer Records offers this new version at a competitive price of €189, making it accessible for newcomers and seasoned producers alike. Notably, users who already own the original Serum can upgrade completely free, demonstrating Xfer’s dedication to its community. Who Should Get This Upgrade? The upgraded synthesizer is designed for both veteran Serum users and new producers seeking powerful, intuitive sound-design capabilities. Suitable across various genres including EDM, pop, hip-hop, cinematic, and experimental music, this synthesizer is perfect for anyone who wants to elevate their music production skills. The extensive new features and improved workflow offer significant benefits to producers who value innovation and creative freedom. User Experience Improvements Beyond technical enhancements, Serum 2 also brings a streamlined user interface that enhances usability. New visual feedback features, faster patch browsing, and an intuitive layout allow both novice and professional producers to create sounds efficiently. Conclusion Xfer Records’ latest synthesizer update represents a remarkable advancement in digital sound design. The integration of innovative oscillators, expanded modulation features, enhanced effects processing, and overall user experience improvements position it as an indispensable tool in modern music production. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just beginning your music journey, investing in this update will undoubtedly expand your creative possibilities. Want to earn from music by ghost producing? Join our platform today!