I wholeheartedly agree. I’ve been on this audio journey for decades and found the same thing. I’ll go a step further. Most DAW stock plugins today will do 85-90% of what you need.
My advice: DOWNLOAD AND TRY THE DEMO. Compulsive tendencies happen over a super sale / cheap price. Trying the demo will cool your wheels and lead to a smarter buying decision.
Barry you are absolutely spot on. Here’s the irony. I heard another RUclipsr giving the exact same advice 5 years ago. Did I listen?? Did I heck 😅 I have learned that now for sure!
Such an amazingly beautiful soul you are sensei! I don’t know, where’s these tears are coming from! Stay well, and stay safe, I’d happily sacrifice my 20 years of life time for you. Godspeed!❤❤❤❤
Cool Video! I threw away my Computer and bought a fourtrack.... Best decision in my life as a (home) recording enthusiast. I got bucks for vacation and stuff now! Can u imagine?!?
Let me just say thank you for saying this. Too many people and companies have gotten so far out of hand, it's ridiculous. And thank you for addressing elephants in the room in many of your videos. It's not always easy to publicly say what needs to be said. You're from the heart, honest, and NOT trying to sell something.
I'm older. I look for free plug-ins to get that inspirational fix. A new compressor, EQ, reverb is usually moot in capabilities. The only stuff worth it is noise reduction and the like. There's a plug-in called Sooth that takes a lot of harshness out of a track. Stuff like that is worth it. Everything else seems to have a free version.
What kills me are consumers on forums complaining about mistakenly double buying plug ins. They then blame the company some how and never stop to think that maybe they are buying way too many plug-ins , if you don’t even remember that you already have one.
Absolutely love you Barry. You are speaking so much truth in this video. When I started my journey I initially thought I needed a lot of plugins and of course waves was it until I learned better. I did waste a few dollars but not too much as I quickly noticed the game. I only have a few plugins, none by waves as your stock plugins are better than ANYTHING by them. Thank you for calling out these famous mix engineers as they should be ashamed for prostituting themselves and taking advantage of people's lack of knowledge. I have no respect for them for those that do it. Everything you said in this video is correct. Me personally, my plugin list is a two channel strips from BWX, one two from soft tube and a few from Fabfilter and called it good. Keep up the good work.
So true. Oh gosh been there done that. It’s addictive. I’m just a serious hobbyist using Cubase Pro 12 and did a short experiment. I remixed a song with only stock plugins. Asked several of my friends to listen to it and compare it with the version on which I used Plugin Alliance, Waves, NI plugins, etc. Almost none of them could really hear a difference. That was a trigger for me. From now on, my discretionary $$$ will go to courses and training, or simply to more fun stuff with my significant other. That will have a bigger impact, both for my music and my life in general. Thanks Barry for all you publish on your site.
Very true. I always get asked about how I get such a deep and punchy sound on my drums. I tell my buddies and the people I teach “ logics overdrive plugin, logics bitcrusher plug-in, and oh I forgot. Logics eqs and compressor. “ lol that’s all you need.
I realized that having your really good recording chain is the key to a song sounding like a record. The problem with plugins is that we record straight to the interface and then we try to emulate a signal chain with plugins in a mix. Spend more time getting better at recording.
That might be true, but that doesnt help if you have to mix stuff you did not record yourself, which at least in my case is around 95% of what I have to do.
I am thankful for the work of Paul Third in this respect. His analysis of Waves plugins-and that company’s predilection for releasing new plugins based upon the features and EQ curves from their previous releases-has helped me curb my impulses for acquiring new titles. Your videos offer even more practical advice in this regard. Thank you.
It's also nice to have plugin clones of stuff we can't affoard, like à Fairchild ou a pulltec...And once you go down that road It's a never ending tunnel.
100% agree! I do love waves plug-ins but I literally use the same ones on every mix. Mainly to learn them in and out. No need for all the other ones. A few plug-in alliance and one or two izotope plugins. The secret sauce is in learning the product. It’s the same rule in the studio with hardware.
Lately! I have had more fun with my old 4 track cassette recorder. Limitations lead you to creativity. I have a old Mac laptop strictly for digital transfer so friends can listen on their little Bluetooth speakers.
I agree, wholeheartedly. And don’t forget that many plugs included with DAWs are great, too. I can easily make a great mix with the stuff included with Cubase.
People today have mostly hybrid studios, Hardware/Plugins. I have in collection 1 to 4 plugins of the same type, this plugin needs to be the kind that does things you can't find in a hardware unit. I prefer to buy quality hardware that works for me. In the end, you can get some of your money back or more than what you paid for the unit if you sell it. In case you don't use that much or don't fit in your workflow. With plugins that you don't use, they just take space in your machine so that is throwing your money away. You can work with a hardware for 20 years, not a plug-in because of fast changes in technology. Depending on the type of work that you do produce, mix, or mastering you can invest in useful plugins or quality hardware always having in mind that is an investment and you don't buy stuff for a collection. Use and learn your tools and simplify your workflow.
I agree. I dont buy much. Specific tools, for very specific needs. I try to get very good tools and learn them inside out in the first place. Ive started investing more in education now.
i quit buying plugins 2 years ago instead i buy diffrent daws that got diffrent plugins ableton cubase bitwig have all defult plugins i ever need, love your point in your video.
Great video. Fortunately I'm using Harrison Mixbus 32Cv9 as my mixing DAW. The eq, compressor, gate is in my channel strip on each track as default. I like the simplicity.
I'm guilty of this at times but not too bad about it. One major thing I changed in my buying process was going to Slate. I was not a Slate fan in the beginning. I am now an All Access sub and also own Trigger 2 and SSD5. Most of my other processing options now rarely get used. I'm not a subscription fan but the value and options I now have are really great. Trying out different configurations is now super easy and I've learned more new tricks now that I am a Slate user. I now use a select few from Waves and combine them with the Slate stuff. My workflow has sped up and my processing templates are more streamlined and productive now.
I always stick too 3 compressors only... he he he For vocals : 1. Fetish Analog Obsession - 2. Free comp -" DIRTY LA" from bedroom Producers 3. Softube CL1B. That's all. he he he Eq I always use Reacomp
So glad I came upon this video. Was thinking about buying another plug-in that intrigued me, but I kept thinking I already have a bunch of great plugins that already cover this. Yes, there was a new angle to it, so I almost pulled the trigger. Your video was exactly what I needed to see. Don’t need that plug-in.
I have stopped buying plug-ins period. Nothing is better than my close friends telling me want is wrong with my mixes and recording. No plug-in is going to fix a thing. I have dropped the Slate program, Waves...etc.. And refused to by another UAD plug-in. Thanks for your content.
Barry, 100 percent agree. I started down that road and have already come to the conclusion you are talking about. I pretty much use a few Softube, a few Plug-in Alliance along with primarily UAD Spark and that is way more than I need. Oh and I also find myself reaching for the Logic Channel EQ. That said, when you make up your mind to stop buying the next new thing, it becomes easier and easier to resist those emails and ads.
This is absolutely true! When I first got into photography, I was overwhelmed with all the different camera types, lenses, filters, raw processors, etc., etc. There is no end to the number of gizmos and gadgets that exits in the photography world--all promising to magically make you into the next _Ansel Adams_ or _Annie Leibovitz._ It wasn't till I purchased a fully manual camera (Mamiya RZ67) and only two fixed lenses that my photography began to improve. I wish I had 5¢ on the dollar for all that other sh!t cluttering my space. So I've decided to do the same with my _"ear photography"_ and UAD plugins. I'm intentionally limiting myself to the Neve 1084 pre, the C-Vox, and the Neve 2254 compressor/limiter. Is this the best stack for every possible use? Obviously not. But it's good enough for my current state of understanding and my ability to hear sound. It has taken me years to _see_ good photography, and I suspect it will take me some time to _hear_ good audio. Having *too many* options is a confusing and time-wasting endeavor.
Spot on Barry. Last month I just shed 9 plugins I don't use anymore . I'm down to my SSL Channel Strip, Ozone 9, some great synths, Addictive Drums/Keys, and some good Guitar VST's and select effects like Blu-cat, built in Studio One, MS20 filter and several others.
Thank you for the video. I have been a business man for most of my life and have decided to get into the music recording environment. I must say that I am thankful that my business experience is keeping me from the desire to buy everything and then to be the master of none! You really hit the nail on the head when you stated that you need to master what you have and then wisely choose your next product. Really it appears to me that this might be one of the many reasons that people in this business get discouraged. There is just sooo much toys in this field to distract you. Don’t get me wrong - some are really good, but as you said, you get what you paid for. You gave good advise!
Hello Barry! Well, at the end if your video I can’t say whether I love or hate you. But you sure knocked Waves Plugins. As for “new” plugins every week, besides Waves I get at least TWO emails a day from Waves, Antares, Softube, Plugin Alliance, Spitfire, Izotope at al. So it’s not just Waves. It’s also funny that all their “special sales” are ending soon - since December last year! One thing I whole heartedly believe in is that your DAW has all you need if you are just getting started. Growing your talent comes first. Then comes adding equipment that can boost your productivity. And I agree that you should shy away from the guys or gals on You Tube who say, “ You wanna be just like me? Then this is what you need.” Today was the first time I came across your channel. I clicked on “About” and all it said was you have “merch” for sale. So what is Barry all about? Cheers and best to you, Gianni ❤
So I cut my teeth on all tube outboard gear and world class consoles. When I started mixing in the box I just use the same old standbys. LA2A and Pultec Compression, I use a Neve model 80 summing buss as well as a Neve channel strip (or sometimes an API or SSL console emulation. A good plate reverb plug and a lexicon one. A pair of H style harmonizers for doubling vocals. I use a Neve preamp from a decent large diaphragm microphone or any tube microphone like an AKG solid tube or an AT 4060 both around $500 and they sound great. I recently switched to Luna since I was already using Universal Audios interface so I can use the real emulated world class preamp plugs. I recently tried waves harmony plug in … A great writing tool and cool on guitar solos but not up to my standards for making recordings. Still cool. So that’s not much in the way of buss effects. The cool thing is you can buy a single strip or effect and just duplicate it over and over on every channel just like patching with TT cables. Keep it simple and record well. All My Best Big Dave Simpson
Still lovin' on you Barry. I'm still subscribing to Plugin-Alliance and like you said, they actually help you buy the plugins you actually want. I was able to get the SSL essential pack last Xmas and that was a steal. I have the 9099 channel and a few other plugs from P/A that have become valuable in my mixing. I use those along side the native plugins from my 2 DAWs I own. Great advise and great video. Now, I'll update my Nomad stuff and use those on my inputs.......
It makes more economic sense to buy different DAWs for their stock plugins and soft instruments and treat those as “bundles”. Master two solid DAWs and you’ve got a hell of a digital arsenal at your disposal. Don’t forget to have fun, y’all. ✌️
I listen my 90s mixes made with Mackie 32-8, 4 alesis XT, 2 lexicons, Alesis quadraverb, 2 Alesis compressors and a BBE maximixer and I flip !! Open, fresh, dimensions and full of harmonics With about 3-4 k might get that old great technology again.
I decided "I love you" and subscribed... (Great personality, great delivery, insightful commentary and lots of interesting topics in your video list...)
Hi Barry, About that GUI thing, I've been saying this for years. Look at those tape machine GUIs, they look GREAT ! Add a few lines of code to emulate tape distiotion and hiss, and BINGO ! Combine that with the ad hype "....meticulously modeled in software...." Yeah, right. Hiss. There's an accomplishment. And about those ":superstar" engineers................. PLEASE. Most of these guys happened to be handling tape or hanging mics when 'The Who" walked in, they cut a million seller album and now you're some magical mystical knob twiddler that has 'the touch', etc. and you managed to 'parlay' that experience into a career. Bill P.
I don’t like subscription schemes for software, but … I agree that Plugin Alliance’s sales model is a good one. If it has to be subscription, then their version is a strategy I can accept.
This is a great editorial Barry, thank you. I've added fewer plugins in recent years, mainly filling a few holes. E.g. I finally bought my first tape simulator - Softube tape - on deep discount. I favor newer plugs like Soothe2 that do not try to emulate legacy hardware. And generally I favor utility over flavor. E.g. FabFilter is my go-to collection when mixing; I insert a few flavor plugins when specifically needed. Taking inventory of one's collection and actively managing is sound advice.
I will say, I've seen that Softube tape demo and holy cow, is it better than anything else I've seen out there. But, I will wait for it to go on sale again before I buy it. It is one of the plugins I really do want. I have the Slate one, I have one or two of the Waves ones, but nothing sounds like Softube. I also use their saturation knob on vocals, it just sounds killer. Softube has nailed saturation.
I don't agree with the criticism of waves I've used them for over 15 years I've only updated them twice and they all run 100% stable and sound great in my opinion. There are many other plug-in manufacturers that have awesome plug-ins for surgical use but I like the fact that wave has many usable presets to start with.
I agree with you whole heartedly, but its up to us to say that this is not actually life, and its just a dogshit culture we are being fed. My parents grew up with the beatles, star wars originals and all this incredibly inspiring culture and ours is just flat out rubbish and empty. We have so many luxuries and none of them mean anything. It means nothing to get a new plugin people would have killed for 10 years ago, or listen to a million artists on spotify as record collection people would have died for. Its up to us to not put up with the fast food culture and create our own, new worlds that actually are meaningful to us. Like people did in the 60s
It makes me sick. Bunch of greedy evil people trying to Captalize off stealing from idiots. I try to seperate from both those parties. World is flooded with garbage for sale.
Amazing my RUclips feed brought me to you. My stock is Fabfilter, Kush for coloring, Izotope and Plugin Alliance, and I am so happy with that. I do love HOFA IR reverb, but to expensive for me. I was looking forward for softube, but no waves. I will dig you channel sir! thanks for sharing
12:43 The cold hard truth since ever... I have a TON of legit plugins, Waves included, and I always, 90% of the time, use my stock plugins in my daw. With the exception of my SSL Channel strip 2 for drums, 1 or 2 from Waves for my master ch. At one point, I was in love with my VCM VST3 Ruper Neve plug ins, now I am just running most of the plugins in my Cubase or Nuendo DAW, which both have a ton of plugins already. I no longer buy Waves, nor do I care for anything else. This is my fav video so far.
I've purchased very few plugins ($300) most of what i use is 3rd party free. I did pay for waves SSL, PEQ -1, and a couple other. Thanks forvyour advise, it is wise.
I liked the video just for the BTS 😂.. I totally agree with this. It's the deception that you are a better producer/mixer because you have the most plugins
I agree with you. Your spot on. I am guilty of having way to many plugins. I probably have tried them all out at one time or another ( just to see what it would add to the tracks ) and wound up consistently using about a quarter of what I have. I do have the Plugin Alliance mastering and recording subscription, which I am very happy with , even though there is such a plethoria of processor choices that if taken into consideration while recording and mixing and having to experiment with alternate choices can slow down your work flow. I do use other manufacturers software ( such as Acoustica and Waves ) and after having time to use these plugins, I found the ones that work almost well. I do check out the latest and greatest when advertised, but I have no plans of purchasing any more processing plugins for quite awhile. Thanks for taking the time to create this video.
This is so true as Barry only gives, how much do we really need and I'm guilty of overloading my plugin catalog with thing I don't need and have yet to use, Thanks Barry I will be using this knowledge going forth..
i never bought plugins impulsively and has this mentality to use whatever I have to the fullest before even looking out for something else and this mindset had helped me a lot in my music journey, also one of my song went on tv and radio which was created on mobile phone using bandlab and fl mobile which also made it really clear to me that its not the gear its the person behind the gear. Now I use reaper and bunch of free plugins (From analog obsessions, tokyo dawn records, native instruments, and more) to make the music, also I have few paid plugins for particular uses but that's pretty much it!
I see the same thing with software engineering; people add so many plugins to their workflow that it actually slows them down. When offered a clean workflow with say 5 key plugins they are shocked by what they have done to themselves.
I had a uad card when it was sold by Mackie...the original UAD PCI card...and it came with the early LA2A and 1073 as far as I remember...also some early channel strips that are now renamed, and a reflection engine ( CS1)... I think also some guitar amp thingy... When it came time to upgrade to the pcie card...UA..gave a trade in price on the upgrade....and it worked well for me...I upgraded all the LA2A and 1073 bundle very cheaply...I mean very cheap.. So I bought the new hardware....but the plugins were updated very cheaply...and these are the daily plugins I use... All day everyday. For the sake of comment, I use mostly virtual instruments...and so keeping system clear of plugins is really crucial. That's why UA DSP is valuable.....I can run an extra orchestral instrument while still running a limiter and tape SIM without over using the CPU and ram..often I Max out my UAD cards while running large samples I believe that even on the new M1 macs one can hit the max with large sample libraries....so on board DSP gives the option to see how things will actually sound later on down the line. I own quite a few UA plugins...but I use these on almost every session I do ...I have a few dogs like " voice of God "...but mostly I'm carefull of what I buy....I find that the free system resources lets me compose more freely...and check how things will turn out later down the process.. I probably will buy an appolo, just because it will free up resources to run the ridiculous sample libraries composers can choose to use...even on the Mac mini... Thanks for your content...really enjoy it
I wholeheartedly agree. I’ve been on this audio journey for decades and found the same thing. I’ll go a step further. Most DAW stock plugins today will do 85-90% of what you need.
Amen
Very very true. Ableton and Logic have awesome plugins. The two DAWS I use.
I swear there is literally no reason to buy a plug-in for reaper .
yeah i realized when i buy a plugin i'm just paying for a new skin
I'm a new musician myself. So Ableton, Logic and Reaper are good DAWs to use?
My advice: DOWNLOAD AND TRY THE DEMO. Compulsive tendencies happen over a super sale / cheap price. Trying the demo will cool your wheels and lead to a smarter buying decision.
Barry you are absolutely spot on.
Here’s the irony. I heard another RUclipsr giving the exact same advice 5 years ago. Did I listen?? Did I heck 😅
I have learned that now for sure!
Fully do agree. Good songwriting and arrangement will give you 90% of a good song. 6-7 plugins will do the job.
Such an amazingly beautiful soul you are sensei! I don’t know, where’s these tears are coming from! Stay well, and stay safe, I’d happily sacrifice my 20 years of life time for you. Godspeed!❤❤❤❤
Cool Video!
I threw away my Computer and bought a fourtrack.... Best decision in my life as a (home) recording enthusiast.
I got bucks for vacation and stuff now! Can u imagine?!?
Let me just say thank you for saying this. Too many people and companies have gotten so far out of hand, it's ridiculous. And thank you for addressing elephants in the room in many of your videos. It's not always easy to publicly say what needs to be said. You're from the heart, honest, and NOT trying to sell something.
I'm older. I look for free plug-ins to get that inspirational fix. A new compressor, EQ, reverb is usually moot in capabilities.
The only stuff worth it is noise reduction and the like. There's a plug-in called Sooth that takes a lot of harshness out of a track. Stuff like that is worth it.
Everything else seems to have a free version.
that's why I love Soundtoys
From Russia with love !
What kills me are consumers on forums complaining about mistakenly double buying plug ins. They then blame the company some how and never stop to think that maybe they are buying way too many plug-ins , if you don’t even remember that you already have one.
Absolutely love you Barry. You are speaking so much truth in this video. When I started my journey I initially thought I needed a lot of plugins and of course waves was it until I learned better. I did waste a few dollars but not too much as I quickly noticed the game. I only have a few plugins, none by waves as your stock plugins are better than ANYTHING by them. Thank you for calling out these famous mix engineers as they should be ashamed for prostituting themselves and taking advantage of people's lack of knowledge. I have no respect for them for those that do it. Everything you said in this video is correct. Me personally, my plugin list is a two channel strips from BWX, one two from soft tube and a few from Fabfilter and called it good. Keep up the good work.
I just bought CLA underwear 😂 , Dam he’s a good salesman, and thanks for your content Barry
So true. Oh gosh been there done that. It’s addictive. I’m just a serious hobbyist using Cubase Pro 12 and did a short experiment. I remixed a song with only stock plugins. Asked several of my friends to listen to it and compare it with the version on which I used Plugin Alliance, Waves, NI plugins, etc. Almost none of them could really hear a difference. That was a trigger for me. From now on, my discretionary $$$ will go to courses and training, or simply to more fun stuff with my significant other. That will have a bigger impact, both for my music and my life in general. Thanks Barry for all you publish on your site.
That’s exactly my MOJO
Very true. I always get asked about how I get such a deep and punchy sound on my drums. I tell my buddies and the people I teach “ logics overdrive plugin, logics bitcrusher plug-in, and oh I forgot. Logics eqs and compressor. “ lol that’s all you need.
I realized that having your really good recording chain is the key to a song sounding like a record. The problem with plugins is that we record straight to the interface and then we try to emulate a signal chain with plugins in a mix. Spend more time getting better at recording.
That might be true, but that doesnt help if you have to mix stuff you did not record yourself, which at least in my case is around 95% of what I have to do.
You are soooooooooooooooo right ! I'm chompin at the bit to get my Chris Lord-Alge , endorsed toilet paper.
This video should have a double-Like button.
This guy is totally correct in what he's saying.
Thank you Barry for always telling us the hard truth.
I am thankful for the work of Paul Third in this respect. His analysis of Waves plugins-and that company’s predilection for releasing new plugins based upon the features and EQ curves from their previous releases-has helped me curb my impulses for acquiring new titles.
Your videos offer even more practical advice in this regard. Thank you.
He's a good lad that fella
Lol.. helllooo
It's also nice to have plugin clones of stuff we can't affoard, like à Fairchild ou a pulltec...And once you go down that road It's a never ending tunnel.
Thanks for this video. As a beginner, the plug in market is incredibly deceptive. I appreciate your insight 😊
Very true, we need to cover that issue a lot more often
It’s all a mindset thing… companies will put your mind in a frenzy to make you feel you need what you already have.
Love the authenticity of the out-takes at 15:20 - ish to end, lol.
Thanks for this great one Barry ! one from me and my ophthalmologist... don't rub your eyes at all ; this is the worst thing you can do to them...😊
😁
100% agree! I do love waves plug-ins but I literally use the same ones on every mix. Mainly to learn them in and out. No need for all the other ones. A few plug-in alliance and one or two izotope plugins. The secret sauce is in learning the product. It’s the same rule in the studio with hardware.
Lately! I have had more fun with my old 4 track cassette recorder. Limitations lead you to creativity. I have a old Mac laptop strictly for digital transfer so friends can listen on their little Bluetooth speakers.
I swear , with the stock plug-in that come with your DAW , Melda Productions Free Pack and a couple of more free plug-ins YOU ARE SET FOR LIFE
They’ll suffice
I agree, wholeheartedly. And don’t forget that many plugs included with DAWs are great, too. I can easily make a great mix with the stuff included with Cubase.
Haven’t even finished watching the video, subscribed at 3.06. This is wisdom, pure untainted integrity there! Sensei, stay well!
People today have mostly hybrid studios, Hardware/Plugins. I have in collection 1 to 4 plugins of the same type, this plugin needs to be the kind that does things you can't find in a hardware unit. I prefer to buy quality hardware that works for me. In the end, you can get some of your money back or more than what you paid for the unit if you sell it. In case you don't use that much or don't fit in your workflow. With plugins that you don't use, they just take space in your machine so that is throwing your money away. You can work with a hardware for 20 years, not a plug-in because of fast changes in technology. Depending on the type of work that you do produce, mix, or mastering you can invest in useful plugins or quality hardware always having in mind that is an investment and you don't buy stuff for a collection. Use and learn your tools and simplify your workflow.
Absolutely true, spend time mastering ur craft
100% agree with all this. Luckily I learned this lesson early on after spending a fortune on hardware outboard gear.
I updated my komplete 13 but apart from that I’ve not bought any other.it’s work in progress great video Barry 👍👍
Fabfilter and oeeksound are absolute must have
Completely agree... beyond the stock daw plugs, I use any about 3 must-have plugs.
I agree. I dont buy much. Specific tools, for very specific needs. I try to get very good tools and learn them inside out in the first place. Ive started investing more in education now.
i quit buying plugins 2 years ago instead i buy diffrent daws that got diffrent plugins ableton cubase bitwig have all defult plugins i ever need, love your point in your video.
I definitely agree 👍 💯 on everything Barry said ..
Great video. Fortunately I'm using Harrison Mixbus 32Cv9 as my mixing DAW. The eq, compressor, gate is in my channel strip on each track as default. I like the simplicity.
I'm guilty of this at times but not too bad about it. One major thing I changed in my buying process was going to Slate. I was not a Slate fan in the beginning. I am now an All Access sub and also own Trigger 2 and SSD5. Most of my other processing options now rarely get used. I'm not a subscription fan but the value and options I now have are really great. Trying out different configurations is now super easy and I've learned more new tricks now that I am a Slate user. I now use a select few from Waves and combine them with the Slate stuff. My workflow has sped up and my processing templates are more streamlined and productive now.
Good video. I used to stockpile plug ins and be overwhelmed with choice. Now I just use stock plug ins and get on with finishing tracks.
You could make a video about how to turn knobs and I’ll still watch it with joy. Congratulations man love your studio talk…
I always stick too 3 compressors only... he he he For
vocals :
1. Fetish Analog Obsession -
2. Free comp -" DIRTY LA" from bedroom Producers
3. Softube CL1B. That's all. he he he
Eq I always use Reacomp
Great talk Barry! I find my acquisition motivation for *anything* is inversely proportional to how much I am using what I already have...
So glad I came upon this video. Was thinking about buying another plug-in that intrigued me, but I kept thinking I already have a bunch of great plugins that already cover this. Yes, there was a new angle to it, so I almost pulled the trigger. Your video was exactly what I needed to see. Don’t need that plug-in.
I've built what I have based on what I could get at the time. The only thing that has improved is my understanding. The tools are what they are.
I totally agree with you, use what you already have and save your money.
I hear U. I am one that like the Plug-in's I have and do not need an upgrade .. Love the one's I have and they are still great. Keep trucken Berry.
I'm glad you pointed out this issue with selling your name on plugins
This is really sound musical/educational/financial advice, I imagine it really helps a lot of people, thanks Barry
I have stopped buying plug-ins period. Nothing is better than my close friends telling me want is wrong with my mixes and recording. No plug-in is going to fix a thing. I have dropped the Slate program, Waves...etc.. And refused to by another UAD plug-in. Thanks for your content.
Barry, 100 percent agree. I started down that road and have already come to the conclusion you are talking about. I pretty much use a few Softube, a few Plug-in Alliance along with primarily UAD Spark and that is way more than I need. Oh and I also find myself reaching for the Logic Channel EQ. That said, when you make up your mind to stop buying the next new thing, it becomes easier and easier to resist those emails and ads.
This is absolutely true!
When I first got into photography, I was overwhelmed with all the different camera types, lenses, filters, raw processors, etc., etc. There is no end to the number of gizmos and gadgets that exits in the photography world--all promising to magically make you into the next _Ansel Adams_ or _Annie Leibovitz._ It wasn't till I purchased a fully manual camera (Mamiya RZ67) and only two fixed lenses that my photography began to improve. I wish I had 5¢ on the dollar for all that other sh!t cluttering my space.
So I've decided to do the same with my _"ear photography"_ and UAD plugins. I'm intentionally limiting myself to the Neve 1084 pre, the C-Vox, and the Neve 2254 compressor/limiter. Is this the best stack for every possible use? Obviously not. But it's good enough for my current state of understanding and my ability to hear sound. It has taken me years to _see_ good photography, and I suspect it will take me some time to _hear_ good audio. Having *too many* options is a confusing and time-wasting endeavor.
You're so right, Barry!! Great video.
Limitation is one key to creativity...
Spot on Barry. Last month I just shed 9 plugins I don't use anymore . I'm down to my SSL Channel Strip, Ozone 9, some great synths, Addictive Drums/Keys, and some good Guitar VST's and select effects like Blu-cat, built in Studio One, MS20 filter and several others.
This channel is the best. Kudos.
Thanks for this realistic analysis, you are 100% right....
Took me a while, but I landed where you are on this.
It's much easier on the pocket book and my wellbeing, no more acquisition anxiety.
So true!!!! I have conditioned my self to delete the emails I get regarding new software
Thank you for the video. I have been a business man for most of my life and have decided to get into the music recording environment. I must say that I am thankful that my business experience is keeping me from the desire to buy everything and then to be the master of none! You really hit the nail on the head when you stated that you need to master what you have and then wisely choose your next product. Really it appears to me that this might be one of the many reasons that people in this business get discouraged. There is just sooo much toys in this field to distract you. Don’t get me wrong - some are really good, but as you said, you get what you paid for. You gave good advise!
Hello Barry!
Well, at the end if your video I can’t say whether I love or hate you. But you sure knocked Waves Plugins.
As for “new” plugins every week, besides Waves I get at least TWO emails a day from Waves, Antares, Softube, Plugin Alliance, Spitfire, Izotope at al.
So it’s not just Waves. It’s also funny that all their “special sales” are ending soon - since December last year!
One thing I whole heartedly believe in is that your DAW has all you need if you are just getting started. Growing your talent comes first. Then comes adding equipment that can boost your productivity. And I agree that you should shy away from the guys or gals on You Tube who say, “ You wanna be just like me? Then this is what you need.”
Today was the first time I came across your channel. I clicked on “About” and all it said was you have “merch” for sale. So what is Barry all about?
Cheers and best to you,
Gianni ❤
....but I LOVE the Waves Echocat!
So I cut my teeth on all tube outboard gear and world class consoles. When I started mixing in the box I just use the same old standbys. LA2A and Pultec Compression, I use a Neve model 80 summing buss as well as a Neve channel strip (or sometimes an API or SSL console emulation. A good plate reverb plug and a lexicon one.
A pair of H style harmonizers for doubling vocals. I use a Neve preamp from a decent large diaphragm microphone or any tube microphone like an AKG solid tube or an AT 4060 both around $500 and they sound great. I recently switched to Luna since I was already using Universal Audios interface so I can use the real emulated world class preamp plugs. I recently tried waves harmony plug in …
A great writing tool and cool on guitar solos but not up to my standards for making recordings.
Still cool. So that’s not much in the way of buss effects. The cool thing is you can buy a single strip or effect and just duplicate it over and over on every channel just like patching with TT cables.
Keep it simple and record well.
All My Best
Big Dave Simpson
Still lovin' on you Barry. I'm still subscribing to Plugin-Alliance and like you said, they actually help you buy the plugins you actually want. I was able to get the SSL essential pack last Xmas and that was a steal. I have the 9099 channel and a few other plugs from P/A that have become valuable in my mixing. I use those along side the native plugins from my 2 DAWs I own. Great advise and great video. Now, I'll update my Nomad stuff and use those on my inputs.......
I need 15 plug-ins for every chord the song has. This is what companies have told me I need :D
God save us all... Thank you🙏
It makes more economic sense to buy different DAWs for their stock plugins and soft instruments and treat those as “bundles”. Master two solid DAWs and you’ve got a hell of a digital arsenal at your disposal. Don’t forget to have fun, y’all. ✌️
I listen my 90s mixes made with Mackie 32-8, 4 alesis XT, 2 lexicons, Alesis quadraverb, 2 Alesis compressors and a BBE maximixer and I flip !!
Open, fresh, dimensions and full of harmonics
With about 3-4 k might get that old great technology again.
I remember those days!
I decided "I love you" and subscribed...
(Great personality, great delivery, insightful commentary and lots of interesting topics in your video list...)
Thanks again, Barry!
Hi Barry,
About that GUI thing, I've been saying this for years.
Look at those tape machine GUIs, they look GREAT !
Add a few lines of code to emulate tape distiotion and hiss, and BINGO !
Combine that with the ad hype "....meticulously modeled in software...."
Yeah, right. Hiss. There's an accomplishment.
And about those ":superstar" engineers.................
PLEASE.
Most of these guys happened to be handling tape or hanging mics when 'The Who" walked in, they cut a million seller album and now you're some magical mystical knob twiddler that has 'the touch', etc. and you managed to 'parlay' that experience into a career.
Bill P.
I don’t like subscription schemes for software, but … I agree that Plugin Alliance’s sales model is a good one. If it has to be subscription, then their version is a strategy I can accept.
I bought the Audeze MM-500 to go with my monitor headphone amp. Game changer. I just use stock plugins and get what I want from there
Completely agree... I basically use 2 plugins in addition to the stock plugs in nuendo.
This is a great editorial Barry, thank you. I've added fewer plugins in recent years, mainly filling a few holes. E.g. I finally bought my first tape simulator - Softube tape - on deep discount. I favor newer plugs like Soothe2 that do not try to emulate legacy hardware. And generally I favor utility over flavor. E.g. FabFilter is my go-to collection when mixing; I insert a few flavor plugins when specifically needed. Taking inventory of one's collection and actively managing is sound advice.
I will say, I've seen that Softube tape demo and holy cow, is it better than anything else I've seen out there. But, I will wait for it to go on sale again before I buy it. It is one of the plugins I really do want. I have the Slate one, I have one or two of the Waves ones, but nothing sounds like Softube. I also use their saturation knob on vocals, it just sounds killer. Softube has nailed saturation.
I don't agree with the criticism of waves I've used them for over 15 years I've only updated them twice and they all run 100% stable and sound great in my opinion. There are many other plug-in manufacturers that have awesome plug-ins for surgical use but I like the fact that wave has many usable presets to start with.
Hey Brother, this is life not just plugins. The world revolves around getting our hard earned money from our pockets into theirs.
I agree with you whole heartedly, but its up to us to say that this is not actually life, and its just a dogshit culture we are being fed. My parents grew up with the beatles, star wars originals and all this incredibly inspiring culture and ours is just flat out rubbish and empty.
We have so many luxuries and none of them mean anything. It means nothing to get a new plugin people would have killed for 10 years ago, or listen to a million artists on spotify as record collection people would have died for. Its up to us to not put up with the fast food culture and create our own, new worlds that actually are meaningful to us. Like people did in the 60s
It makes me sick. Bunch of greedy evil people trying to Captalize off stealing from idiots.
I try to seperate from both those parties. World is flooded with garbage for sale.
Amazing my RUclips feed brought me to you. My stock is Fabfilter, Kush for coloring, Izotope and Plugin Alliance, and I am so happy with that. I do love HOFA IR reverb, but to expensive for me. I was looking forward for softube, but no waves.
I will dig you channel sir! thanks for sharing
Well said. “Un-plug”. Motto for the day… until the next Waves release. 😁
Agreed about Softube plugins. Totally worth it.
12:43 The cold hard truth since ever... I have a TON of legit plugins, Waves included, and I always, 90% of the time, use my stock plugins in my daw. With the exception of my SSL Channel strip 2 for drums, 1 or 2 from Waves for my master ch. At one point, I was in love with my VCM VST3 Ruper Neve plug ins, now I am just running most of the plugins in my Cubase or Nuendo DAW, which both have a ton of plugins already.
I no longer buy Waves, nor do I care for anything else.
This is my fav video so far.
I've purchased very few plugins ($300) most of what i use is 3rd party free. I did pay for waves SSL, PEQ -1, and a couple other. Thanks forvyour advise, it is wise.
I liked the video just for the BTS 😂.. I totally agree with this. It's the deception that you are a better producer/mixer because you have the most plugins
I agree with you. Your spot on. I am guilty of having way to many plugins. I probably have tried them all out at one time or another ( just to see what it would add to the tracks ) and wound up consistently using about a quarter of what I have. I do have the Plugin Alliance mastering and recording subscription, which I am very happy with , even though there is such a plethoria of processor choices that if taken into consideration while recording and mixing and having to experiment with alternate choices can slow down your work flow. I do use other manufacturers software ( such as Acoustica and Waves ) and after having time to use these plugins, I found the ones that work almost well.
I do check out the latest and greatest when advertised, but I have no plans of purchasing any more processing plugins for quite awhile. Thanks for taking the time to create this video.
Oops...On the "almost" ...I meant "always"
The subscription to my dbx 266 compressor was around $100 and is lifetime unlimited. ;-)
Congrats, man. 20K subscribers is right around the corner.
This is so true as Barry only gives, how much do we really need and I'm guilty of overloading my plugin catalog with thing I don't need and have yet to use, Thanks Barry I will be using this knowledge going forth..
All i can say as a beginner “thank you very much”
very excellent. how many do you need ------ very few ----- do not need 18 compressors
I literally talked myself out of plug-ins this morning with this exact logic.
i never bought plugins impulsively and has this mentality to use whatever I have to the fullest before even looking out for something else and this mindset had helped me a lot in my music journey, also one of my song went on tv and radio which was created on mobile phone using bandlab and fl mobile which also made it really clear to me that its not the gear its the person behind the gear.
Now I use reaper and bunch of free plugins (From analog obsessions, tokyo dawn records, native instruments, and more) to make the music, also I have few paid plugins for particular uses but that's pretty much it!
You made my day on this video. I need to watch more. Please tell me more on best plugin manufactures other than universal plugins...
You speak the truth & I admire your honesty
Excellent.But even better less is more I don't use 150000 plugins on 16 tracks no more
I see the same thing with software engineering; people add so many plugins to their workflow that it actually slows them down. When offered a clean workflow with say 5 key plugins they are shocked by what they have done to themselves.
I usually leave videos early, but your bloopers at the end were hilarious 😂
Also, don’t know who needs to hear this, but UAD had plugins on plugin boutique now. Bundles as well!
I had a uad card when it was sold by Mackie...the original UAD PCI card...and it came with the early LA2A and 1073 as far as I remember...also some early channel strips that are now renamed, and a reflection engine ( CS1)...
I think also some guitar amp thingy...
When it came time to upgrade to the pcie card...UA..gave a trade in price on the upgrade....and it worked well for me...I upgraded all the LA2A and 1073 bundle very cheaply...I mean very cheap..
So I bought the new hardware....but the plugins were updated very cheaply...and these are the daily plugins I use...
All day everyday.
For the sake of comment, I use mostly virtual instruments...and so keeping system clear of plugins is really crucial.
That's why UA DSP is valuable.....I can run an extra orchestral instrument while still running a limiter and tape SIM without over using the CPU and ram..often I Max out my UAD cards while running large samples
I believe that even on the new M1 macs one can hit the max with large sample libraries....so on board DSP gives the option to see how things will actually sound later on down the line.
I own quite a few UA plugins...but I use these on almost every session I do ...I have a few dogs like " voice of God "...but mostly I'm carefull of what I buy....I find that the free system resources lets me compose more freely...and check how things will turn out later down the process..
I probably will buy an appolo, just because it will free up resources to run the ridiculous sample libraries composers can choose to use...even on the Mac mini...
Thanks for your content...really enjoy it