A VST that simulates a specific guitar amp, usually one that already exists. There are a few types of guitar VST plugins, and the first kind we’ll be looking at are standalone amp simulators and effects (Impulse Response or IR loaders inclusive).Ī standalone amp sim is just that. Every producer needs these! Standalone Amp Simulators & Effects Let’s look at the best free guitar VST plugins. Using these, you can shape your tones during recording and even after recording, right from inside your DAW. You can even do a combination of the above!īut it’s never been more popular to do your recording “inside the box,” which is exactly what free guitar VST plugins allow you to do. You can record a guitar direct, and “re-amp” it later to achieve your ideal tone. You can record directly through a DI or multi-effects processor. You can go “old school” and mic up an amp (or even multiple amps). There are so many ways to record guitar these days.