11 Free 808 Bass VST Plugins

Here are the best free 808 bass VST plugins for Windows and Mac. We have included video demos, feature lists, pros, cons, and plugin ratings.

An 808 bass VST plugin is a bass plugin that can be used to create bass sounds. The term “808” comes from Roland Corporation’s TR-808 drum machine, which was released in 1980 and popularized the use of this type of bass in electronic and Trap music.

How we rate plugins: We rate each 808 bass VST plugin based on sound quality, design, performance, features, usability, and compatibility. We rate plugins on a scale of 1 to 100.

Best 808 Bass VST Plugins
Best 808 Bass VST Plugins

I have spent over 15 years testing and comparing hundreds of free and paid VST plugins, supported by hands-on demos on our YouTube channel, which has 11,000+ subscribers.

Related: 40 Free Drum Machine VST Plugins | What Is An 808

Best Free 808 Bass VST Plugins

This table compares 808 bass VST plugins by operating system, bit version, format, and rating.

# Plugin OS Formats Bit Version Ratings
1 Subdivine Lite Windows Mac VST3, AU 64-bit 83 Good!
2 TAL-Bassline Windows Mac VST, AU 32-bit, 64-bit 83 Good!
3 Monique Windows Mac Linux VST, AU 32-bit, 64-bit 83 Good!
4 808-ROMpler Windows Mac VST, AU 64-bit 81 Good!
5 Gorilla Bass Windows Mac VST, VST3, AU 64-bit 77 Solid
6 BD-808 Windows Mac VST2, AU 64-bit 76 Solid
7 808 Bass Module 2 Lite Windows Mac VST, AU 32-bit, 64-bit 75 Solid
8 HUM808 Windows VST 64-bit 75 Solid
9 Dolphin Bassline Windows VST 32-bit, 64-bit 69 Decent
10 Bassline Windows VST 32-bit 65 Decent
11 MONSTER Bass Windows VST 32-bit 62 Decent
Quick comparison of 808 bass VST plugins, including OS compatibility, ratings, and summary.

1. Subdivine Lite

Subdivine Lite VST Plugin by Diginoiz
Subdivine Lite by Diginoiz

OS: Windows Win Mac Mac Bit Version: 64-bit Developer: Diginoiz Size: 254 MB Rating: 83/100

Subdivine Lite offers a solid way to create deep and punchy 808-style bass sounds. It includes six preset sounds, an adjustable drive control, and basic ADSR shaping tools. The pitch bend adds flexibility, making it easy to create smooth slides and dynamic low-end parts.

This plugin works well for Trap, Hip-Hop, R&B, and other modern styles. Its clean interface keeps everything focused on sound, letting you build heavy bass lines quickly. Subdivine Lite is a great starting point for exploring powerful low-end tones without extra cost.

Features

  • Six High-Quality 808 Presets
  • Adjustable Drive Control
  • Partly Modifiable ADSR
  • Fully Functional Pitch Bend
  • Simple And Clean Interface
  • Preset Display For Quick Selection
  • Output Meter For Level Monitoring
  • Optimized For Low CPU Usage
  • Works In AU And VST3 Formats
  • Designed For Modern Urban Music

Subdivine Lite Rating

83% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 43/50
  • Interface: 9/10
  • Features: 5/10
  • Ease of Use: 9/10
  • Compatibility: 8/10
  • Performance: 9/10

Pros

  • Powerful 808-style bass tones
  • Rich, deep low-end sound
  • Low CPU use on laptops
  • Adjustable drive for more punch
  • Partly editable ADSR controls
  • Supports AU and VST3 formats
  • Works on Mac and Windows
  • Fast setup and small file size
  • Better sound than many free basses
  • Clean and simple interface

Cons

  • Very limited sound variety
  • No built-in effects section
  • Partial ADSR control only
  • Lacks advanced modulation options
  • Cannot layer multiple sounds
  • No EQ or filtering section
  • Missing glide or portamento feature
  • Very basic user interface
  • Limited tone shaping options
  • Cannot import custom samples

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • I grabbed the Lite version and it’s crazy how good these 808s sound for a free plugin. – Marcelo Silva
  • This plugin is a beast, even the Lite version knocks hard in the low end. – 808Lab
  • Subdivine Lite hits harder than most paid 808 plugins I’ve tried. – JayMuzik
  • The basses in Subdivine Lite are very usable out of the box, just minor EQ and they sit perfect in the mix. – Vibe Creator
  • This is one of the best free 808 plugins, clean GUI and solid low end. – Emanuele
  • For trap and drill beats Subdivine Lite is more than enough to get professional sounding 808s. – Mike On The Track
  • I was surprised how professional Subdivine Lite sounds for a free version, it’s staying in my plugin folder. – Chris T

Subdivine Lite Tips

  • When I layer bass with kicks, I sidechain compress the bass to make room for the kick drum.
  • I use EQ to remove harsh highs and let the sub-bass stay clean and warm.
  • Always check the bass in mono to ensure it doesn’t lose power when played on smaller speakers.
  • Cut frequencies below 30Hz to avoid muddying the mix while keeping the sub strong.
  • Start by exploring the Subdivine Lite preset library to find tones that fit your genre.
  • Try layering Subdivine Lite with another synth for a richer and more complex bass sound.
  • Automation of filter cutoff or volume can make the bass line more exciting over time.

2. TAL-Bassline

TAL-Bassline VST Plugin by TAL Software
TAL-Bassline by TAL Software

OS: Windows Win Mac Mac Bit Version: 32-bit, 64-bit Developer: TAL Software Size: 1 MB Rating: 83/100

TAL-Bassline offers a classic analog-style bass experience in a simple digital plugin. It recreates the warm, deep tones of vintage hardware with a unique -18dB low-pass filter. The plugin includes fast envelopes, clean oscillators, and a sub-oscillator for full, punchy sound design.

Made for crafting bass and acid sounds, TAL-Bassline gives music creators tools like unison mode, LFO controls, and a built-in arpeggiator. Its clear layout makes it easy to shape bright or dark tones, from smooth grooves to gritty basslines, across Windows and Mac systems.

Features

  • Virtual Analog Bass Synthesizer
  • Warm Analog Style Sound
  • Unique 18dB Low Pass Filter
  • Sub-Oscillator For Extra Depth
  • Unison Mode For Thick Sound
  • Fast Non-Linear Envelopes
  • LFO With Various Waveforms
  • MIDI Automation For All Controls
  • 2x Oversampling For Better Quality
  • Includes 23 Ready Presets

TAL-Bassline Rating

83% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 43/50
  • Interface: 7/10
  • Features: 7/10
  • Ease of Use: 9/10
  • Compatibility: 8/10
  • Performance: 9/10

Pros

  • Warm and punchy analog sound
  • Authentic SH-101 style tones
  • Fast non-linear envelopes
  • Powerful low pass filter
  • Thick sound with unison mode
  • Sub-oscillator adds deep power
  • MIDI control for all sliders
  • CPU friendly for multiple tracks
  • Instantly fits well in the mix
  • Free with no hidden costs

Cons

  • No built-in 808 presets
  • Can’t load custom wave samples
  • No visual waveform display
  • Limited effects compared to others
  • No built-in compressor or EQ
  • Hard to shape sub bass tones
  • No sidechain or ducking features
  • Cannot layer multiple bass sounds
  • Lacks modern trap bass feel
  • Less punchy than 808 plugins

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • I can’t believe that this is a free plugin, downloaded it yesterday after seeing the recommendation on here, and it’s absolutely fantastic, one of the nicest freeware I’ve ever heard – TooManyNotes
  • One of the best 101 emu’s around, including commercial ones – mauseoleum
  • Very good sound, easy to program, light on CPU, fantastic free plugin – halo350
  • For a free bass synth this is top notch, and it sits really well in the mix – kenex
  • I was blown away by how close this sounds to my real SH-101 – keyman_sam
  • Still one of my go-to bass plugins after all these years, because it just works – rob_lee

TAL-Bassline Tips

  • I use the envelope controls to shape how fast or slow my bass fades in and out.
  • When I want a punchier bass, I raise the filter drive a little for extra grit.
  • Keep the sub frequencies clean by cutting unnecessary low-end from other instruments.
  • Use a limiter or compressor to keep the bass level steady and punchy.
  • Use a spectrum analyzer to make sure the bass sits well with kicks and other low sounds.
  • Experiment with the glide or portamento to make bass notes slide smoothly between pitches.

3. Monique

Monique VST Plugin by Monoplugs
Monique by Monoplugs

OS: Windows Win Mac Mac Linux Linux Bit Version: 32-bit, 64-bit Developer: Monoplugs Size: 13 MB Rating: 83/100

Monique offers a powerful way to shape bold and expressive sounds. It features morphable oscillators, flexible filters, and a deep modulation system that lets you mold tones from smooth basses to sharp, evolving leads. The morph mixer blends elements seamlessly for creative sound transitions.

Built-in effects such as reverb, delay, and chorus add depth and space to your tracks. The arpeggiator creates rhythmic patterns that move with energy and groove. With options for Windows, Mac, and Linux, Monique provides a complete sound design tool for all kinds of music styles.

Features

  • Creates Deep Bass And Lead Sounds
  • Morphable Oscillators With Tune Control
  • Advanced Modulation Options
  • Filter With Three Mode Options
  • Built-In Delay Reverb And Chorus
  • Arpeggiator With Step Selection
  • Morph Mixer For Sound Blending
  • Modulation Matrix For Control Linking
  • Preset Browser For Saving Sounds
  • Low CPU Usage Performance

Monique Rating

83% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 42/50
  • Interface: 8/10
  • Features: 10/10
  • Ease of Use: 7/10
  • Compatibility: 8/10
  • Performance: 8/10

Pros

  • Morphable oscillators for rich tones
  • Advanced modulation for creativity
  • Strong filter with three modes
  • Feels like a modular synth
  • Includes chorus and distortion FX
  • Built-in delay and reverb effects
  • Low CPU use for smooth play
  • Works on Windows, Mac, and Linux
  • Preset browser for easy saving
  • Free and packed with features

Cons

  • Interface can look confusing
  • Too many knobs for beginners
  • No built-in 808 presets
  • CPU use can still spike
  • Lacks sidechain compression feature
  • No visual waveform editor
  • No sample import support
  • Preset management feels clunky
  • Lacks warm analog saturation
  • Few modern trap-style sounds

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • This thing is absolutely beautiful, honest sounds coming from this synth, and a joy to use, the LFO interaction is next level too – SPEKTR3
  • This plugin is exactly how synths should be made – an intuitive modulation monster with laser focus on what’s really important, customisability and PLAYABILITY – Christopher Stanley
  • Monique feels like an instrument you need to practice and master to play well – rsmus7
  • It is a mono hybrid synth (digital and analog sound together) with a really fat sound and lot of modulations – wiz
  • The modulation system is insane, everything can be modulated by almost everything – urnest_rankor

Monique Tips

  • Sidechain compression keeps the kick and 808 from fighting for space in the mix.
  • Using mono mode helps the bass stay centered and powerful.
  • Adding a touch of distortion helps the 808 cut through small speakers.
  • Tuning the 808 sample to the key of the song ensures it sounds clean and musical.
  • Automating the filter cutoff can make your bass parts feel more dynamic and interesting.
  • Experimenting with LFO modulation can make sustained 808s sound more alive.
  • A short envelope on the pitch can create punchy, percussive 808 hits.

4. 808-ROMpler

808-ROMpler VST Plugin by Recluse-Audio
808-ROMpler by Recluse-Audio

OS: Windows Win Mac Mac Bit Version: 64-bit Developer: Recluse-Audio Size: 88 MB Rating: 81/100

808-ROMpler is a free bass drum sampler designed by Recluse-Audio for quick and clean 808 sounds. It includes sixteen 808-style kicks and supports .wav, .aiff, and .mp3 files through simple drag-and-drop. ADSR envelope controls help shape the punch, length, and tone of each kick.

The plugin’s minimalist design keeps the focus on your sound. A visual waveform display gives instant feedback while adjusting attack, decay, sustain, and release. 808-ROMpler runs on Windows and Mac, offering a fast and reliable way to build solid low-end parts in any style.

Features

  • Sixteen 808 Style Kicks
  • Drag And Drop Loading
  • ADSR Envelope Controls
  • Visual Waveform Display
  • Minimal And Clean Interface
  • Low CPU Usage
  • Supports WAV AIFF And MP3
  • VST And AU Formats
  • 64 Bit Compatible
  • Sound Selection Menu

808-ROMpler Rating

81% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 41/50
  • Interface: 8/10
  • Features: 6/10
  • Ease of Use: 9/10
  • Compatibility: 8/10
  • Performance: 9/10

Pros

  • Clean and easy-to-use interface
  • Includes sixteen ready 808 kicks
  • Custom sound shaping with ADSR
  • Visual waveform helps sound design
  • Lightweight and low CPU use
  • Punchy sounds right out the box
  • Free plugin with pro-level quality
  • Makes stacking multiple sounds easy
  • Ideal for trap and hip-hop
  • Focuses purely on great 808 sounds

Cons

  • No built-in effects or EQ
  • Cannot layer multiple samples
  • No velocity sensitivity support
  • Lacks sample editing tools
  • Limited to 808-style sounds
  • No pitch or tune control
  • No modulation or LFO options
  • No save or load presets
  • No MIDI learn or automation
  • Limited sound design flexibility

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • For a free plugin this is honestly insanely good and rivals some paid 808 instruments I own. – Bedroom Producers Blog user Aaron
  • This thing kicks ass, 808, 909, etc, all sound great, up there with the best of them and free. – Bedroom Producers Blog user db813196
  • My new go-to 808 plugin for quick ideas when I don’t feel like loading a sampler. – Bedroom Producers Blog user John
  • The fact it is drag and drop and dead simple is such a plus for my workflow. – Bedroom Producers Blog user Sam
  • CPU usage is super low on my system which makes it easy to stack multiple instances. – Bedroom Producers Blog user Chris
  • I love how punchy the stock sounds are for a free plugin. – Bedroom Producers Blog user Mike

808-ROMpler Tips

  • I like to layer two 808 sounds—one for sub-bass and another for mid frequencies—to make the bass cut through better.
  • I keep my 808s in tune by matching their root note with my song’s key—it makes the mix sound tight.
  • I place sidechain compression with the kick drum so the 808 and kick don’t fight each other.
  • Shortening the release time keeps the 808 from overlapping notes and getting muddy in the mix.
  • Using parallel processing with saturation or compression can make the 808 punchier while keeping its deep tone.

5. Gorilla Bass

Gorilla Bass VST Plugin by Sample Science
Gorilla Bass by Sample Science

OS: Windows Win Mac Mac Bit Version: 64-bit Developer: Sample Science Size: 133 MB Rating: 77/100

Gorilla Bass offers deep, aggressive bass tones built for drum & bass, jungle, and electronic music. It includes distortion, delay, chorus, and reverb for shaping sound, plus filters and a multi-LFO for extra movement. Each preset is crafted to deliver bold, gritty energy in every mix.

Producers can switch between polyphonic, monophonic, and legato modes to match their style. With simple controls for attack, decay, sustain, and release, users can fine-tune the response of each note. The free and pro versions both provide strong bass character suited for modern low-end production.

Features

  • Creates Heavy Reese Basslines
  • 15 Free Sounds Included
  • Distortion, Delay, Chorus, Reverb Effects
  • Multi-LFO For Modulation
  • Highpass And Lowpass Filters
  • Polyphonic, Monophonic, Legato Modes
  • Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release Controls
  • Glide Smooths Note Transitions
  • Cutoff Adjusts Tone Brightness
  • 64-Bit VST, VST3, AU Formats

Gorilla Bass Rating

77% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 39/50
  • Interface: 7/10
  • Features: 7/10
  • Ease of Use: 9/10
  • Compatibility: 8/10
  • Performance: 7/10

Pros

  • Rich and powerful bass tones
  • Multi-LFO adds cool modulation
  • Creative distortion for gritty tone
  • Has built-in reverb and delay
  • Polyphonic, mono, and legato modes
  • Includes high and low filters
  • Adjustable attack, decay, sustain, release
  • Custom harmony for fuller sound
  • Light on computer resources
  • Great sound quality for free

Cons

  • Limited number of free sounds
  • Few sound design options
  • Too heavy on CPU usage
  • Interface looks a bit dated
  • Missing advanced modulation options
  • Cannot import custom samples
  • Pro features locked behind paywall
  • Few updates or bug fixes
  • May crash in older DAWs
  • No built-in compressor effect

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • Well worth your time to investigate the different flavors of bass and synth combinations that are crafted into this colorful plug in – Carlton Davis
  • I tried Gorilla Bass on a Windows 10 laptop and it worked fine as a VSTi in Cantabile Lite – pinki
  • Probably one of the best free Bass guitar VST available online, Gorilla Bass is one of the best – AV PRODUCTIONS
  • This plugin is a beast for creating powerful and aggressive basslines in any genre – Gusti Pratama
  • It’s extremely rare to find such a high quality plugin for free, so be sure to add this one to your collection – Gusti Pratama

Gorilla Bass Tips

  • I add a little distortion to make my 808s stand out in the mix.
  • I tweak the glide control to make the notes slide smoothly between each other.
  • I layer my Gorilla Bass with a kick drum for extra punch.
  • Cut off frequencies below 30Hz to keep the low end clear and powerful.
  • Balance the 808 volume with the kick to prevent muddiness in the low end.
  • Use stereo imaging tools carefully—808s sound best kept mostly in mono.
  • Automate the filter cutoff to make the bass sound more dynamic throughout the track.

6. BD-808

BD-808 VST Plugin by Synsonic Instruments
BD-808 by Synsonic Instruments

OS: Windows Win Mac Mac Bit Version: 64-bit Developer: Synsonic Instruments Size: 440 KB Rating: 76/100

BD-808 offers an authentic recreation of the classic TR-808 bass drum in a digital format. It captures the warmth and punch of the original hardware using careful circuit modeling. With controls for Tune, Decay, Tone, and Accent, producers can shape tight kicks or deep sub-bass hits.

The plugin can respond to MIDI notes and velocity, allowing it to act as both a kick generator and a simple bass synth. BD-808 suits electronic styles like techno and hip-hop, giving artists a fast way to create that signature 808 thump right inside their DAW.

Features

  • Authentic TR-808 Bass Drum Emulation
  • Adjustable Tune And Fine Controls
  • Decay And Tone Adjustment Options
  • MIDI Note Controlled Pitch Mode
  • MIDI Velocity Controlled Accent
  • MIDI Learn And Clear Functions
  • Available In VST2 And AU Formats
  • 64-Bit Plugin Architecture
  • Works In Popular DAWs
  • Simple And User-Friendly Interface

BD-808 Rating

76% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 38/50
  • Interface: 7/10
  • Features: 6/10
  • Ease of Use: 8/10
  • Compatibility: 8/10
  • Performance: 9/10

Pros

  • Authentic TR-808 bass drum sound
  • Adjustable pitch and tone
  • Playable as a bass synth
  • MIDI control for easy mapping
  • Low CPU use for smooth play
  • Dynamic accent control option
  • Long decay for deep sub sounds
  • More punch than basic 808 samples
  • Stable in major DAWs like Ableton
  • Small file size, loads quickly

Cons

  • Only one basic 808 sound
  • No built-in distortion effects
  • Missing volume envelope control
  • Limited tone shaping options
  • No preset browser included
  • Can’t load user samples
  • Limited modulation capabilities
  • Only mono output support
  • No drive or saturation knob
  • Less flexible than newer 808 VSTs

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • I’m not very conversant with the original 808 (which I couldn’t ever hope to afford back when it was being sold, and now it’s a collector’s ‘legend’) but this really DOES sound good, and the ability to tune the kick is excellent for modern styles, combined with the DRIVE, ATTACK and DECAY, it’s a very decent little bass drum synth IMO. – CaulynD
  • The BD-808 does a pretty good job at approximating the original TR-808 bass drum. – Gregory Scott – ubk
  • It doesn’t have the mojo of a well-recorded real 808, but for a free plugin it’s more than solid. – Gregory Scott – ubk
  • I just downloaded it and am impressed, its a nice little bass drum generator for 808-style sounds and the drive control is a nice touch. – Deleted 68f9c0d
  • This really nails that boomy, long 808 sub and it’s handy having it in plugin form instead of hunting through samples. – all0123

BD-808 Tips

  • I layer the BD-808 with a short click sound so it cuts through the mix better.
  • I use light compression to make the 808 sit well with my drums.
  • I like to use a tiny bit of saturation to make my 808 stand out more.
  • Cut unnecessary low frequencies from other tracks to leave room for the 808.
  • Using sidechain compression with the BD-808 can help make the kick and bass blend smoothly.
  • Experiment with different tuning for the 808 to match your song’s key perfectly.

7. 808 Bass Module 2 Lite

808 Bass Module 2 Lite VST Plugin by BeatMaker
808 Bass Module 2 Lite by BeatMaker

OS: Windows Win Mac Mac Bit Version: 32-bit, 64-bit Developer: BeatMaker Size: 32 MB Rating: 75/100

808 Bass Module 2 Lite is a free 808 bass plugin by BeatMaker made for creating strong, low-end sounds in trap, hip-hop, and electronic music. It includes 10 layered presets that match the key of your project, helping you get heavy bass tones quickly and easily.

It offers controls for gain, amp, glide, attack, release, and a flexible LFO section to shape movement and depth. The glide feature gives smooth note transitions, while the LFO rate and waveform options add motion to your bass. It works on both Windows and Mac.

Features

  • Ten Ready-To-Use Layered Presets
  • Plays In Key Of Project
  • Glide Knob For Smooth Slides
  • Attack And Release Controls
  • LFO Rate And Depth Adjustments
  • Aftertouch For Extra Expression
  • Built-In Preset Selection Menu
  • Keyboard For Direct Note Playing
  • Supports VST And AU Formats
  • Runs On Windows And Mac

808 Bass Module 2 Lite Rating

75% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 37/50
  • Interface: 7/10
  • Features: 6/10
  • Ease of Use: 9/10
  • Compatibility: 7/10
  • Performance: 9/10

Pros

  • Powerful and rumbling bass tones
  • Glide control for smooth slides
  • Great low end without muddiness
  • Adjustable LFO rate and depth
  • Attack and release shaping options
  • Low CPU usage and stable
  • Free and professional sounding plugin
  • Sounds fit key of your song
  • Perfect for trap and hip-hop
  • Works well in all major DAWs

Cons

  • Lite version lacks sound variety
  • No built-in effects like reverb
  • Limited tone shaping controls
  • No filter cutoff or resonance
  • No built-in EQ controls
  • Presets sound too similar
  • Cannot import custom samples
  • Missing advanced modulation settings
  • No support for velocity layers
  • Lacks creative sound design depth

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • 808 Bass Module 2 Lite is my go-to free 808 plugin, it’s simple, sounds great, and doesn’t kill my CPU at all – Beats by JBlack
  • Love this plugin, the basses are punchy and ready to use without tons of processing, perfect for quick ideas – Marcus
  • This thing hits hard on my monitors, definitely usable low end for modern trap beats – Luis
  • I’m impressed by how good the 808 Bass Module 2 Lite sounds considering it is completely free – Dave
  • The bass is very powerful but still controlled, it doesn’t sound muddy like some other 808 samples I have – Rodney
  • I really appreciate that it runs smoothly even on my older laptop, which is not the case with some heavier plugins – Sam

808 Bass Module 2 Lite Tips

  • Using sidechain compression helps the bass and kick drum work together without clashing.
  • Keeping the bass in mono prevents phase problems in the low end.
  • Adding a touch of saturation keeps the bass warm and full even on small speakers.
  • I keep an EQ after the 808 Bass Module 2 Lite to shape the low end cleanly.
  • I often tune the bass sound to the key of my song so it blends better.
  • I use the Attack and Release knobs to make my bass hit harder or smoother.

8. HUM808

HUM808 VST Plugin by Cally Beat
HUM808 by Cally Beat

OS: Windows Win Bit Version: 64-bit Developer: Cally Beat Size: 11 MB Rating: 75/100

HUM808 offers a full set of tools to craft deep, punchy, or gritty bass tones. It combines additive and FM synthesis with four oscillators, 90 samples, and multiple modulation options. Each sound source includes its own ADSR envelope for shaping tone and control.

The plugin includes effects like distortion, reverb, delay, and compression, plus a four-band EQ and spectrum analyzer for clear sound design. With MIDI learn, filter types, and visual feedback tools, HUM808 helps producers design and refine 808-style basses quickly and precisely.

Features

  • Additive And FM Synthesis
  • Sampler With Ninety Built-In Samples
  • Unison And Voice Spread Settings
  • Individual And Global ADSR Envelopes
  • DAW-Synced Modulation Control
  • Sixteen Filter Types With Modulation
  • Five Built-In Audio Effects
  • MIDI Learn And CC Assignment
  • Real-Time Spectrum Analyzer
  • Preset Menu With Four Hundred Fifty Presets

HUM808 Rating

75% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 38/50
  • Interface: 8/10
  • Features: 9/10
  • Ease of Use: 8/10
  • Compatibility: 5/10
  • Performance: 7/10

Pros

  • Deep punchy bass sound quality
  • Strong additive and FM synthesis
  • Four powerful sound oscillators
  • Built-in sampler with 90 samples
  • Rich modulation and LFO options
  • Five built-in effects for enhancement
  • Real-time spectrum and oscilloscope view
  • Unison mode for wider bass tones
  • Free and open source software
  • Outperforms most free 808 plugins

Cons

  • No Mac or Linux support
  • No standalone version available
  • Interface looks dated
  • Can crash on weaker PCs
  • CPU usage spikes quickly
  • Hard to fine-tune low-end
  • No drag-and-drop sample loading
  • Few modulation options
  • No built-in sidechain tool
  • Effects chain not editable

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • Seriously HUM808 might be the best 808 vst from the past 5 years no cap – @betterharebeats
  • HUM808 is the best 808 VST ive used in a while – @prodMoonLite
  • HUM808 is one of the best 808 VSTs I’ve ever used – @FearIsTheWorst
  • HUM808 just changed the way I make 808s – @evandc
  • HUM808 is easily one of the best 808 plugins out right now – @theskybeats
  • I just got HUM808 and its already top 3 in my 808 plugins – @kevgreenbeatz

HUM808 Tips

  • I like to start by setting the root note of my 808s so they match the key of my song.
  • I always check the glide or slide controls in HUM808 to make smooth pitch changes between notes.
  • I use a little bit of distortion in HUM808 to make my bass cut through the mix better.
  • I always leave headroom when mixing my 808 so it doesn’t clip the master channel.
  • Tuning the 808 properly keeps the bass from clashing with chords and melodies.
  • Try pairing HUM808 with a drum compressor to glue the low end with the kick drum.
  • Always compare the 808 tone with the rest of the mix to make sure it fits well and isn’t too loud.

9. Dolphin Bassline

Dolphin Bassline VST Plugin by Signaldust
Dolphin Bassline by Signaldust

OS: Windows Win Bit Version: 32-bit, 64-bit Developer: Signaldust Size: 1 MB Rating: 69/100

Dolphin Bassline offers a classic mono synth sound inspired by vintage 80s gear. It focuses on creating tight, punchy bass lines using saw or square waves. With controls for tuning, cutoff, resonance, decay, and accent, it gives clear control over tone and movement.

This plugin is designed for electronic and techno music, allowing quick tweaks for sharp, acid-style bass sounds. MIDI note synchronization and velocity accents help bring rhythmic life to patterns. Dolphin Bassline is a simple yet effective tool for shaping bold, energetic low-end tones.

Features

  • Monophonic Bass Synth Plugin
  • Adjustable Cutoff And Resonance
  • Envelope Modulation Control
  • Decay And Accent Knobs
  • Velocity-Triggered Accents
  • Tuning For Pitch Adjustment
  • Low CPU Usage
  • Classic 303 Style Sound
  • 32-Bit And 64-Bit Support
  • Free VST Plugin

Dolphin Bassline Rating

69% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 38/50
  • Interface: 5/10
  • Features: 5/10
  • Ease of Use: 8/10
  • Compatibility: 4/10
  • Performance: 9/10

Pros

  • Classic 303-style acid sound
  • Accurate vintage 80s synth vibe
  • Strong and punchy bass tone
  • Adjustable filter for tone control
  • Expressive accent feature included
  • Two waveform types for variety
  • Light on CPU resources
  • Quick sound design workflow
  • Handles overlapping notes smoothly
  • Useful for layering with 808s

Cons

  • No Mac or Linux support
  • Sound variety is very limited
  • No built-in presets available
  • Lacks advanced modulation features
  • No built-in effects section
  • Sometimes causes note hanging bugs
  • No glide or slide tuning option
  • Not resizeable for large screens
  • Interface is small and plain
  • Cannot save user preset banks

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • For me Dolphin Bassline sounds closer to my real 303 than most other free plugins – waxx
  • Dolphin Bassline is a very good freeware 303 clone that works nicely in my setup – shamann
  • For a free plugin Dolphin Bassline is surprisingly punchy and cuts through the mix easily – lotus2035
  • I like that Dolphin Bassline is light on CPU so I can run several instances at once – ouroboros
  • I keep Dolphin Bassline around because it loads fast and is great for sketching 303 lines quickly – Polite Company

Dolphin Bassline Tips

  • I sidechain the bass to the kick drum so the mix doesn’t get muddy.
  • I use gentle distortion to give my 808 bass more character and warmth.
  • Always check your bass in mono to make sure it doesn’t lose power when summed.
  • Use a spectrum analyzer to make sure the low end isn’t clashing with the kick drum.
  • Balance the attack and release in the envelope so the bass grooves with your drums.
  • I often layer the Dolphin Bassline with a clean sub to make it hit harder on big speakers.

10. Bassline

Bassline VST Plugin by EVM Synths
Bassline by EVM Synths

OS: Windows Win Bit Version: 32-bit Developer: EVM Synths Size: 1 MB Rating: 65/100

Bassline offers a simple way to create strong bass sounds with classic character. Designed by EVM Synths for Windows, it can run in monophonic or duophonic mode while giving control over tuning, glide, and filters. Its resonance and envelope tools shape deep or punchy tones easily.

This plugin includes adjustable attack, decay, sustain, and release settings for shaping how notes start and fade. Its wave sample options let producers choose different bass textures, from smooth synth tones to 808-style thumps. Bassline is compact, fast, and reliable for everyday music production.

Features

  • Multi-Mode Filter With Resonance
  • Envelope Trigger And Gating
  • Monophonic Or Duophonic Mode
  • Adjustable Glide Control
  • Wave Sample Selection
  • Attack Speed Control
  • Decay Time Adjustment
  • Low CPU Usage
  • Compact And Simple Interface
  • Free 32-Bit VST Format

Bassline Rating

65% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 32/50
  • Interface: 6/10
  • Features: 6/10
  • Ease of Use: 9/10
  • Compatibility: 3/10
  • Performance: 9/10

Pros

  • Very low CPU usage
  • Warm, punchy bass tone
  • Has monophonic and duophonic modes
  • Glide makes notes sound smooth
  • Filter adds deep sound shape
  • Envelope gives sound more life
  • Resonance control boosts tone power
  • Octave change allows wide range
  • Tuning and pitch are easy
  • Stable even on lightweight setups

Cons

  • Only works on Windows computers
  • No native 64-bit version
  • No support for macOS systems
  • Not updated in many years
  • Lacks modern sound-shaping tools
  • No built-in distortion effects
  • Basic GUI feels outdated
  • Cannot load external samples
  • No built-in preset browser
  • Lacks deep sub-bass power

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • Bassline by EVM is still my go to for simple synthesized basslines because it sounds solid and doesn’t tax the CPU at all – jens
  • I still use EVM Bassline when I need a quick bread and butter bass in a project because it loads instantly and sits in the mix without much work – braj
  • EVM Bassline is tiny, sounds surprisingly good and the interface is dead simple which is why it stayed in my plugin folder for years – penguinfromdeep
  • I always recommend Bassline from EVM Synths to people looking for a free 303ish or general bass plugin because it’s stable and light on resources – blinddrew
  • EVM Bassline has a really punchy sound for such an old freebie and I still find it useful alongside modern synths – hibidy
  • I used EVM Bassline on a couple of commercial tracks back in the day because it cut through the mix better than some paid synths I had – Lunch Money
  • For quick sketching of ideas I throw in EVM Bassline since it’s free, light and gets me a decent bass sound in seconds – Brok Landers

Bassline Tips

  • I try adding a little bit of distortion to make my 808s sound more powerful.
  • Sidechain compression can make the bass duck under the kick for a clean, modern sound.
  • Adding subtle saturation brings out harmonics and makes the bass more audible on small speakers.
  • EQing out muddy frequencies around 200–300 Hz can help the mix sound clearer.
  • When I mix, I make sure to cut low frequencies in other instruments so my bass stands out.
  • Using envelopes to shape the attack and decay can change the groove and energy of the track.

11. MONSTER Bass

MONSTER Bass VST Plugin by MonsterDAW
MONSTER Bass by MonsterDAW

OS: Windows Win Bit Version: 32-bit Developer: MonsterDAW Size: 7 MB Rating: 62/100

MONSTER Bass offers a wide range of deep and clear bass sounds made for any music style. It includes electric, synth, and acoustic bass options, letting you shape tones easily with controls like filter, ADSR, glide, and LFO. Each preset provides strong, ready-to-use lows for your tracks.

With 42 presets and regular sound updates, MONSTER Bass continues to grow with new expansion libraries. It supports Windows and Mac in multiple formats, allowing flexible use across DAWs. Quick setup steps make it easy to load sounds, adjust settings, and start creating solid basslines fast.

Features

  • Three Bass Categories Available
  • Forty-Two Presets Included
  • ADSR And Filter Controls
  • LFO And Glide Functions
  • Polyphonic And Monophonic Modes
  • Parameter Automation Supported
  • Supports Major Plugin Formats
  • Regular Expansion Sound Updates
  • Global Volume And Reverb
  • Free To Download And Use

MONSTER Bass Rating

62% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 33/50
  • Interface: 6/10
  • Features: 6/10
  • Ease of Use: 8/10
  • Compatibility: 4/10
  • Performance: 5/10

Pros

  • Includes electric and acoustic bass
  • Glide knob for smooth note play
  • LFO adds motion and texture
  • ADSR lets you shape sound
  • Expanding library keeps it fresh
  • Regular free sound updates
  • Strong low-end sound quality
  • Nice preset variety for genres
  • Excellent sound for a free plugin
  • Good 808 alternatives built-in

Cons

  • No VST3 version available
  • Can crash during preset change
  • Limited sound design controls
  • No built-in distortion effects
  • No visual waveform display
  • Can sound harsh or boomy
  • Volume can clip too easily
  • Poor optimization for older PCs
  • Still lacks Pro Tools support
  • Updates released very slowly

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • Another great free instrument from Monstertaurus, a must have for sure its quality is superior and the sound is very well recorded and manipulated, a valuable tool for all types of productions every single patch is well made and tweaked, this video also sums up a lot of what it can do and very useful tips, thank you for processing this wonderful plugins and giving it away, and cheers for this great presentation it covers the instrument and its capabilities very well indeed, thank you both and best wishes to you and yours – c_alpha
  • The best free bass virtual instrument I ever used very natural sound and works seamlessly in FL Studio and Ableton Life – Hilmy
  • This is one of the best free bass plugins I have ever used, nice variety of sounds and intuitive to use, and it works on Linux – at least on AVLinux where I tested it – joe49
  • I love using Monster Bass for trap and hip hop beats, the 808 style patches hit really hard – JProBeats
  • Monster Bass by MonsterDAW is honestly insane for a free plugin, the sound quality is easily on par with some paid libraries – futurevibes

MONSTER Bass Tips

  • Start by choosing the correct key and tuning for MONSTER Bass to match your track.
  • I add sidechain compression with my kick to make sure both kick and bass fit together nicely.
  • I use the Glide knob to blend notes smoothly when I want a sliding bass sound.
  • Use EQ to remove sub frequencies under 30Hz so the mix stays clean.
  • Add gentle saturation or distortion to make your bass stand out in a busy mix.
  • I always check the sub-bass on headphones and small speakers to make sure it sounds clear everywhere.
  • Keep some headroom when mixing MONSTER Bass so mastering has space to enhance the track.


808 Bass VST Plugins Compared

This table compares 808 Bass VST plugins by features, controls, effects, formats, and more.

In-depth comparison of 808 Bass VST plugins, including features, controls, OS, bit version, and more.
Details Subdivine Lite TAL-Bassline Monique 808-ROMpler Gorilla Bass BD-808 808 Bass Module 2 Lite HUM808 Dolphin Bassline Bassline MONSTER Bass
Image Subdivine Lite TAL-Bassline Monique 808-ROMpler Gorilla Bass BD-808 808 Bass Module 2 Lite HUM808 Dolphin Bassline Bassline MONSTER Bass
Rating 83 Good! 83 Good! 83 Good! 81 Good! 77 Solid 76 Solid 75 Solid 75 Solid 69 Decent 65 Decent 62 Decent
OS Windows, Mac Windows, Mac Windows, Mac, Linux Windows, Mac Windows, Mac Windows, Mac Windows, Mac Windows Windows Windows Windows
Formats VST3, AU VST, AU VST, AU VST, AU VST, VST3, AU VST2, AU VST, AU VST VST VST VST
Bit Version 64-bit 32-bit, 64-bit 32-bit, 64-bit 64-bit 64-bit 64-bit 32-bit, 64-bit 64-bit 32-bit, 64-bit 32-bit 32-bit
Developer Diginoiz TAL Software Monoplugs Recluse-Audio Sample Science Synsonic Instruments BeatMaker Cally Beat Signaldust EVM Synths MonsterDAW
License Freeware Freeware Freeware Freeware Freeware Freeware Freeware Freeware Donationware Freeware Freeware
Sample-Based Yes No Select Yes Yes No Yes Select Select No Yes
Download Size 254 MB 1 MB 13 MB 88 MB 133 MB 440 KB 32 MB 11 MB 1 MB 1 MB 7 MB
CPU Load Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low
Polyphony 1 1 64 8 32 1 1 8 1 1 16
Features 808-type bass, Six presets, Adjustable drive, Modifiable ADSR, Pitch bend, Simple interface, Urban genres 18dB Low-Pass Filter, Non-Linear Envelopes, Band-Limited Oscillators, Sub-Oscillator, Unison Mode, Arpeggiator, MIDI Automation Morph mixer, Arpeggiator, Morphable oscillators, Advanced modulation, Built-in effects, Filter routing, Automation Drag-and-Drop, 16 808 Kicks, ADSR Controls, Waveform Display, Simple Design, Minimalist Interface, Sound Selection Heavy Reese bass, Distortion effects, Multi-LFO modulation, Filter controls, Amplitude range, Voice modes, Built-in reverb Authentic 808 Emulation, Adjustable Parameters, MIDI Control, Long Decay, Trigger Pad, Value Display, MIDI Learn Layered presets, Key tracking, LFO controls, LFO waveform, Glide knob, Attack release, Amplitude control Additive synthesis, FM engine, Sampler module, Unison voices, Filter types, Built-in effects, Spectrum analyzer Monophonic Synth, Saw/Square Oscillator, Variable Filter, Envelope Modulation, Velocity Accents, Decent Sound Quality, User-Friendly Interface Multi-mode filter, Envelope gating, Duo mode, Adjustable glide, WaveSample selection, Pitch tuning, Resonance control Presets Library, Sound Categories, ADSR Control, Filter Section, LFO Modulation, Glide Knob, Expansion Updates
Controls Preset Display, Type Knob, Main Dial, Drive Knob, Side Sliders, Keyboard Section, Output Meter Tune, Waveform Selector, Filter Cutoff, Filter Resonance, Envelope Mod, Decay, Volume Oscillator Section, Mixer Section, Filter Section, Envelope Controls, LFO, Arpeggiator, Effects Section Waveform Display, Preset Name, Romples Button, Attack Knob, Decay Knob, Sustain Knob, Release Knob Depth, Rate, LFO Wave, Cutoff, Reverb, Volume, Preset Menu Tune, Fine, Accent, Decay, Tone, Level, Long Decay Preset Menu, Gain, Amp, Glide, Attack, Release, LFO Depth Oscillator, LFO, Filter Section, Envelope Section, Mixer, Master Section, Visualizer Display Tuning, Cutoff, Resonance, Env Mod, Decay, Accent, Waveform Volume, Tune, Oct, Duo, Glide, Wavesample, Freq Gain, Signal Meter, Reverb, ADSR Envelope, Filter Mode, Voice Mode, Glide Knob
Effects Included Drive Low pass filter, LFO, arpeggiator, portamento, unison mode Delay, Reverb, Chorus, Distortion, EQ ADSR Envelope Controls Distortion, Delay, Chorus, Reverb Unknown LFO distortion, compression, limiter, reverb, delay, parametric equalizer Cutoff filter, Resonance, DC offset Filter with resonance, Distortion Reverb, Filter, LFO
MIDI Learn Unknown Yes Yes Unknown Unknown Yes No Unknown Unknown Yes Unknown
Presets 30 23 200 15 25 10 10 40 N/A 16 30
Standalone No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes
Last Updated 08/10/2020 02/02/2024 07/11/2017 06/07/2023 07/25/2023 06/27/2020 04/06/2020 06/07/2024 07/16/2023 06/30/2023 03/25/2024

Favorite 808 Bass VST Plugin

Our top pick for the best free 808 Bass VST plugin is Subdivine Lite by Diginoiz. It offers great controls, features, presets, and it’s available for both Windows and Mac.

Table of our favorite 808 Bass VST plugin.
Details Subdivine Lite
Image Subdivine Lite
Rating 83 Good!
OS Windows, Mac
Formats VST3, AU
Bit Version 64-bit
Developer Diginoiz
License Freeware
Sample-Based Yes
Download Size 254 MB
CPU Load Low
Polyphony 1
Features 808-type bass, Six presets, Adjustable drive, Modifiable ADSR, Pitch bend, Simple interface, Urban genres
Controls Preset Display, Type Knob, Main Dial, Drive Knob, Side Sliders, Keyboard Section, Output Meter
Effects Included Drive
Download Download Subdivine Lite

I hope you found this list of free 808 bass VST plugins helpful.

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Written By Mark Valenzuela

Mark Valenzuela is a blogger, entrepreneur, and educator. He has over 15 years of experience in music production. In 2008, Mark started Hip Hop Makers. It’s a leading resource for aspiring music producers and beatmakers. He specializes in content on music production, software, gear, and free music resources. Mark is dedicated to empowering creators at every level. He inspires music creators to chase their dreams.

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