12 Free Bell VST Plugins

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

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

Free Bell VST Plugins

This table compares bell plugins by operating system, bit version, format, and rating.

# Plugin OS Formats Bit Version Ratings
1 Desk Bell Windows Mac Kontakt 32-bit, 64-bit 88 Good!
2 Labs Christmas Windows VST 64-bit 86 Good!
3 Chamber Orchestra 2 Windows Mac VST, AU 32-bit, 64-bit 81 Good!
4 Miscellania II: Holiday Bells Windows VST, AU 32-bit, 64-bit 76 Solid
5 BellsEbuth Windows Mac VST, AU 32-bit, 64-bit 75 Solid
6 Medicine Bell Windows VST, AU 32-bit, 64-bit 75 Solid
7 B-2 BELLY Windows VST 32-bit, 64-bit 74 Solid
8 Labs Hand Bells Windows VST, AU 64-bit 71 Solid
9 Sonatina Chimes Windows VST, AU 32-bit, 64-bit 62 Decent
10 Christmas Belly Windows VST 32-bit 58 Average
11 Carillon Windows VST 32-bit 58 Average
12 IOTA MINI Windows Mac VST, AU 64-bit 51 Average
Quick comparison of bell VST plugins, including OS compatibility, ratings, and summary.
Best Free Bell VST Plugins
Best Free Bell 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.

1. Desk Bell

Desk Bell VST Plugin by Soundiron
Desk Bell by Soundiron

OS: Windows Win Mac Mac Bit Version: 32-bit, 64-bit Developer: Soundiron Size: 590 MB Rating: 88/100

Desk Bell offers a bright and character-rich sound built from a real 3-inch brass bell, recorded in both studio and church settings. It captures every subtle “ding” with multiple dynamic layers and variations, giving producers access to a surprisingly expressive tonal range.

Beyond the natural bell tones, Desk Bell includes 20 ambient pads, wavetables, and creative FX presets that stretch its sound far beyond its humble source. With flexible layering, shaping tools, and deep effects, it’s well-suited for creating rhythmic accents, soft melodies, or atmospheric textures.

Features

  • Sampled 3-Inch Polished Brass Bell
  • Close And Cathedral Recording Positions
  • Multiple Velocity Layers For Dynamics
  • Includes Muted And Clapper Sounds
  • 20 Ambient Pads And Textures
  • Four Independent Sound Layers
  • Arpeggiator With Timing Controls
  • 27 DSP Effects In Modular Rack
  • 99 Convolution Reverbs Plus 40 FX
  • Works In Free Kontakt Player

Desk Bell Rating

88% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 39/50
  • Interface: 6/10
  • Features: 6/10
  • Ease of Use: 7/10
  • Compatibility: 5/10
  • Performance: 6/10

Pros

  • Clean and clear bell tone
  • High-quality studio and hall samples
  • Dynamic layers for real expression
  • Includes 20 ambient sound presets
  • Arpeggiator adds rhythmic motion
  • Custom FX rack with 27 effects
  • 99 reverb options for deep space
  • Layer blending for creative sounds
  • Unique vintage bell character
  • Light on CPU and memory use

Cons

  • Requires Kontakt Player to run
  • Not a true standalone plugin
  • Limited to one main instrument
  • Small sample size
  • No built-in layering
  • Lacks synth-style controls
  • Heavy CPU use
  • Few presets
  • Limited customization
  • May not fit all styles

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • Soundiron has managed to turn a little call bell into a lush resonant instrument that works in both tonal and percussive contexts – G W Childs IV
  • This library is surprisingly expressive for such a humble source instrument making it more than just a novelty bell sound – G W Childs IV
  • Desk Bell’s arpeggiator can transform a simple bell sound into complex rhythmic patterns perfect for experimental and cinematic music – G W Childs IV
  • The included sound design patches in Desk Bell stretch the original recordings into pads and atmospheres that feel far removed from a simple bell – G W Childs IV
  • Considering its low cost and unique sound, Desk Bell is an easy recommendation for composers looking to expand their palette with something different – G W Childs IV

Desk Bell Tips

  • I like to add a little reverb to the Desk Bell to make it sound bigger and more dreamy.
  • Layering multiple bell tones in different octaves creates a fuller, richer sound.
  • Using EQ to cut low frequencies helps the bell stay clear in a busy mix.
  • Adding gentle delay gives the bell a sparkling, echoing feel that fills space.
  • I use the pitch wheel to make slight bends that give the bell life and movement.
  • Experiment with adjusting attack and release knobs to change how fast the bell rings and fades.
  • I always save my favorite bell settings as presets so I can use them again quickly.

2. Labs Christmas

Labs Christmas VST Plugin by Spitfire Audio
Labs Christmas by Spitfire Audio

OS: Windows Win Bit Version: 64-bit Developer: Spitfire Audio Size: 478.9 MB Rating: 86/100

Labs Christmas offers a charming set of holiday sounds designed to bring warmth and sparkle to your music. It includes sleigh bells, glockenspiel, tubular bells, soft vocals, and other festive touches recorded beside a crackling fire for an authentic seasonal tone.

With 13 carefully recorded sounds, this plugin gives you an easy way to create cheerful or cinematic winter moods. Simple controls for reverb, volume, and expression help shape the atmosphere, making it ideal for holiday projects or adding a cozy layer to any track.

Features

  • Includes 13 Festive Instrument Sounds
  • Features Sleigh Bells And Glockenspiel
  • Includes Tubular Bells And Vocals
  • Main Dial Blends Sound Layers
  • Reverb Selector Adjusts Room Ambience
  • Vertical Sliders Control Expression
  • MIDI Channel And Tune Controls
  • Pan And Volume Adjustments Available
  • Works In 64-Bit VST Format
  • Keyboard Display Shows Active Notes

Labs Christmas Rating

86% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 46/50
  • Interface: 8/10
  • Features: 6/10
  • Ease of Use: 10/10
  • Compatibility: 7/10
  • Performance: 9/10

Pros

  • High quality orchestral recordings
  • Lush reverb and spatial depth
  • Includes 13 unique sound patches
  • Better realism than many free bells
  • Cinematic and emotional textures
  • Well balanced bell and string mix
  • Low CPU and memory use
  • Perfect for film and game music
  • Custom reverb for room types
  • Works great beyond Christmas music

Cons

  • Only works on Windows
  • No Mac or Linux support
  • Small sound library
  • Lacks sound editing tools
  • No delay or reverb depth
  • Interface looks basic
  • No modulation or LFO
  • Limited tone-shaping
  • Less flexible than others
  • Requires LABS account

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • This is my favourite LABS plugin to date, the incredible pizzicato section alongside hugley atmospheric melodic textures creates endless inspiration and makes composing so much fun!! – edwyndowson
  • Really loving how playful and well recorded this is, amazing to have such an inspiring orchestral palette for free – Tomas
  • This has exceeded my expectations, gorgeous textures and the ensemble patches are so full and cinematic – David
  • I appreciate that it’s not just cheesy Christmas sounds, there are plenty of subtle textures that work in non-seasonal tracks too – Marco
  • This is a fantastic addition to the LABS range, the mix of bells, strings and keys really captures that warm festive feeling – Emma

Labs Christmas Tips

  • I use the reverb knob to make the bells sound like they are in a big, echoing church.
  • I add a delay plugin to give the bells a magical, repeating sparkle.
  • I mix the Labs Christmas bells with strings to make my holiday track sound full and rich.
  • Use EQ to cut out low frequencies that make the bells sound muddy.
  • Try layering Labs Christmas with a choir for a deep, festive sound.
  • Use the pan controls to spread the bell notes across the stereo field.
  • Try automating the reverb to make some notes feel closer and others far away.

3. Chamber Orchestra 2

Chamber Orchestra 2 VST Plugin by Versilian Studios LLC.
Chamber Orchestra 2 by Versilian Studios LLC.

OS: Windows Win Mac Mac Bit Version: 32-bit, 64-bit Developer: Versilian Studios LLC. Size: 1.5 GB Rating: 81/100

Chamber Orchestra 2 offers a free and open library of orchestral sounds designed for learning and creative projects. It features strings, brass, woodwinds, mallets, and percussion instruments, all recorded with a natural and close style that feels like real players in a small ensemble.

The plugin includes simple controls for volume, tone, and effects like reverb and panning. Users can shape each instrument’s feel with attack, decay, sustain, and release settings. Available for Windows and Mac in VST and AU formats, it’s easy to use for creating realistic orchestral tracks.

Features

  • Free 3 GB Sample Library
  • Open Source Public Domain License
  • VST And AU Plugin Formats
  • Adjustable Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release
  • Built-In Reverb Effect
  • Simple And Clear Interface
  • Light On CPU Usage
  • Includes Strings, Brass, Woodwinds
  • Includes Mallets And Percussion
  • Allows Custom Instrument Creation

Chamber Orchestra 2 Rating

81% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 41/50
  • Interface: 7/10
  • Features: 7/10
  • Ease of Use: 9/10
  • Compatibility: 8/10
  • Performance: 9/10

Pros

  • Completely free with no limits
  • Works on Windows and Mac
  • Includes bells and mallet sounds
  • Low CPU and RAM usage
  • Offers real, natural instrument tones
  • Creative Commons 0 public domain
  • Includes multiple articulation options
  • Built-in reverb for space and depth
  • Better realism than many free VSTs
  • Authentic, warm chamber sound

Cons

  • Limited modern bell sound variety
  • No built-in sound design tools
  • Interface looks plain and dated
  • Missing advanced modulation controls
  • Basic effects compared to other VSTs
  • Cannot import custom samples easily
  • Few preset options for beginners
  • Less polished sound than paid plugins
  • Lacks powerful reverb options
  • Small community support for updates

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • The free version of VSCO 2 is absolutely incredible for a zero-cost library and honestly puts a lot of paid stuff to shame in terms of what you get – user bradleyharris
  • I really enjoy the character and slightly imperfect realism of VSCO 2 because it sounds like actual players in a room, not an overprocessed Hollywood soundstage – user Sampleconstruct
  • The woodwinds in VSCO 2 have a beautiful, natural tone and sit well in a mix without a lot of EQ or processing – user MariusMasalar
  • VSCO 2 is great for sketching ideas because it loads fast and is light on RAM while still sounding musical and expressive – user TorCab
  • The fact that VSCO 2 runs in the free Sforzando player and doesn’t require full Kontakt is a huge plus for me – user Arman
  • Considering the price and the amount of content, VSCO 2 is an insane value and an essential part of my freeware collection – user GreyLion

Chamber Orchestra 2 Tips

  • I often mix in a bell VST on top of violins to add sparkle and brightness to the piece.
  • Layer bell VSTs with flutes or violins to add a magical shimmer to the mix.
  • I always try to use reverb to help the orchestra sound like it’s playing in a real concert hall.
  • Adjust expression and modulation to make each note feel alive and natural.
  • Experiment with panning placement to make each section of the orchestra sound like it’s in a real space.
  • Add a touch of EQ to remove muddy frequencies from low strings or brass.
  • Use automation to fade in the orchestra gently for cinematic builds.

4. Miscellania II: Holiday Bells

Miscellania II: Holiday Bells VST Plugin by Versilian Studios
Miscellania II: Holiday Bells by Versilian Studios

OS: Windows Win Bit Version: 32-bit, 64-bit Developer: Versilian Studios Size: 41 MB Rating: 76/100

Miscellania II: Holiday Bells offers a bright and cheerful range of bell and chime sounds that fit perfectly in festive or playful tracks. Covering six octaves, it includes bells, triangles, finger cymbals, and tambourines, along with ambient loops for extra sparkle and depth.

With simple controls for shaping tone and space, music creators can adjust attack, sustain, and reverb to craft anything from soft background shimmer to lively accents. Its wide range of percussive tones makes it easy to add a hint of seasonal charm or light metallic texture to your music.

Features

  • Six Octaves Of Bell Sounds
  • Includes Chimes And Triangles
  • Adjustable Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release
  • Built-In Reverb Effect
  • Gain And Pan Controls
  • Available In VST And AU
  • Supports 32-Bit And 64-Bit
  • Lightweight And Quick To Load
  • Low CPU Usage
  • Clear And Natural Sound

Miscellania II: Holiday Bells Rating

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

Pros

  • Wide six-octave sound range
  • Includes many unique bell types
  • Natural and sweet tone quality
  • Light on CPU resources
  • Expressive velocity response
  • Very dynamic for a free plugin
  • Polished stereo image
  • Effective reverb controls
  • Great free alternative to paid bells
  • Inspires creative and fun compositions

Cons

  • Limited sound variety
  • No built-in EQ or filters
  • No preset saving or loading
  • No modulation or LFO options
  • Cannot import custom samples
  • Too simple interface for pros
  • Static sample playback
  • No built-in delay or effects
  • Lacks velocity curve adjustment
  • Interface looks dated

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • I think the Holiday Bells from the Miscellania II set is one of the best free bell sets I’ve tried so far – xpirimental
  • Holiday Bells is very usable and inspiring, especially for such a small and lightweight plugin – plastikman303
  • The Holiday Bells plugin has a very sweet and clear tone that sits nicely in a mix – Peter Widdicombe
  • The Holiday Bells are perfect for adding a bit of seasonal sparkle to tracks without sounding cheesy – bbaggins
  • For a free instrument, Holiday Bells has a lot more character than some paid libraries I’ve tried – examigan
  • The tuning and stereo image of Holiday Bells feel very polished for something that costs nothing – Ah_Dziz
  • Holiday Bells cuts through dense arrangements without needing much EQ – EnGee

Miscellania II: Holiday Bells Tips

  • I often layer different bell sounds together to make the music more full and rich.
  • I adjust the reverb to make the bells sound like they are ringing in a big hall or outside in the snow.
  • Use panning to spread different bells across the stereo field for a more natural sound.
  • Experiment with different velocities to make bells sound more expressive.
  • Adding light delay effects can make the bells echo gently and fill up space in the mix.
  • Using a small amount of chorus effect can make digital bells sound more real.
  • I save my favorite bell settings as presets so I can use them again later.

5. BellsEbuth

BellsEbuth VST Plugin by Alan ViSTa
BellsEbuth by Alan ViSTa

OS: Windows Win Mac Mac Bit Version: 32-bit, 64-bit Developer: Alan ViSTa Size: 63 MB Rating: 75/100

BellsEbuth offers the clear, bright sound of orchestral bells in an easy-to-use VST plugin for Windows and Mac. It uses 40 stereo samples recorded from real glockenspiel performances, giving your tracks a natural tone that fits well in many music styles.

You can shape your sound with simple controls for sustain, release time, and dynamic range. BellsEbuth works smoothly with MIDI keyboards, covering notes from C3 to E6. It’s a practical choice for adding bell melodies, accents, or shimmering textures to your music.

Features

  • Sampled Orchestral Bell Sounds
  • 40 Stereo 24-Bit Samples
  • Release Time Adjustment
  • Sustain Level Control
  • Amplitude Dynamic Range Control
  • Dynamic Sound Response
  • Low CPU Usage
  • Formats VST And AU
  • Available In 32 And 64 Bit
  • MIDI Range From C3 To E6

BellsEbuth Rating

75% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 38/50
  • Interface: 6/10
  • Features: 6/10
  • Ease of Use: 9/10
  • Compatibility: 7/10
  • Performance: 9/10

Pros

  • Realistic orchestral bell sound
  • Uses 40 rich stereo samples
  • Low CPU on any system
  • Works on Windows and Mac
  • Available in VST and AU
  • Adjustable release and sustain
  • Dynamic range adds realism
  • Natural stereo field presence
  • Light file size, fast install
  • No registration needed

Cons

  • Limited sound customization options
  • No built-in reverb effect
  • Lacks advanced modulation tools
  • Few tone shaping controls
  • Cannot load user samples
  • No built-in EQ or filter
  • Limited automation options
  • Dynamics feel flat
  • Not many presets
  • Interface looks plain

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • This is a beautiful bells vst, I like to use it on clean arpeggio patterns with delay and reverb – Bad Habit McGee
  • ive been trying BellsEbuth from Alan Vista, and it sounds really good, id say it might be the closest to the Chrono Trigger bell tones ive heard so far, and its free – Akryphos
  • BellsEbuth is a sampled orchestral bells plugin that sounds pretty natural to me – Anonymous commenter
  • The sampled dynamic layers make it feel more alive than most free bell plugins I’ve tried – Anonymous commenter
  • This is one of those free plugins that ends up on almost every track where I need a simple bell or glock sound – Anonymous commenter
  • BellsEbuth blends well with pads and strings in cinematic tracks, especially with a bit of reverb – Anonymous commenter
  • If you are looking for a free set of orchestral bells or glockenspiel, this is easily one of the best options available – Anonymous commenter

BellsEbuth Tips

  • I like to layer BellsEbuth with soft pads to make the bells sound fuller and warmer.
  • Use EQ to cut low frequencies so the bells don’t sound muddy in the mix.
  • Add chorus or shimmer effects to make the bells sound wider and more magical.
  • Pan different bell notes left and right to give the song more space and depth.
  • Try adjusting the ADSR envelope to shape how quick or slow the bell sound fades.
  • Sometimes I add a little delay to BellsEbuth to make a dreamy or magical vibe.

6. Medicine Bell

Medicine Bell VST Plugin by TDJaudio
Medicine Bell by TDJaudio

OS: Windows Win Bit Version: 32-bit, 64-bit Developer: TDJaudio Size: 7 MB Rating: 75/100

Medicine Bell offers a rich collection of chime and bell tones that adapt to any creative style. Its sound ranges from bright, sparkling highs to deep, calming lows, making it useful for leads, background moods, or atmospheric layers in modern music production.

With simple controls for wave speed, intensity, and reverb, Medicine Bell lets you shape your sound’s motion and space easily. Switch between Gem, Flower, and Butterfly modes to explore crystal-like, soft, or airy tones that bring depth and texture to your tracks.

Features

  • Chime And Bell Sound Engine
  • Three Selectable Instrument Modes
  • Gem Mode For Crystal Tones
  • Flower Mode For Soft Sounds
  • Butterfly Mode For Airy Textures
  • Reverb Control For Spacious Sound
  • Wave Intensity Knob Adjusts Depth
  • Built-In Playable Keyboard Interface
  • Available In VST And AU Formats
  • Simple And Clean User Interface

Medicine Bell Rating

75% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 38/50
  • Interface: 7/10
  • Features: 6/10
  • Ease of Use: 9/10
  • Compatibility: 7/10
  • Performance: 8/10

Pros

  • Warm and rich bell tones
  • Three unique sound modes
  • Crystal and airy sound options
  • Subtle and musical saturation
  • Built-in reverb for space
  • Low CPU usage performance
  • Creative sound design controls
  • Feels like analog warmth
  • Nice stereo width control
  • Free and easy to download

Cons

  • No built-in preset browser
  • Limited modulation options
  • Few sound-shaping controls
  • No MIDI learn support
  • No envelope or filter control
  • Lacks built-in arpeggiator
  • No layering between sound modes
  • Interface looks old-fashioned
  • Few options for sound automation
  • No velocity curve adjustment

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • Just a quick note on @tdjaudio’s Medicine Bell plugin: if you do any kind of synthwave, chillwave or lo-fi, you owe it to yourself to check it out – @benosteen
  • I picked up Medicine Bell and it’s like a magic glue for my beats – @lowkeybeats
  • Medicine Bell brings this glue and depth that I usually have to use two or three plugins to get – @JaseTheProducer
  • Medicine Bell is subtle in the best way, you feel it more than you hear it until you bypass it – @KrisCarterMusic
  • I wasn’t expecting to like Medicine Bell as much as I do, but it beat a couple of my go-to bus processors – @OkamiAudio
  • Medicine Bell has become my default last plugin on the mixbus for anything lo-fi, hip-hop or chill – @lofiowl

Medicine Bell Tips

  • I try layering two bell sounds at different octaves to make the melody richer.
  • I always add a touch of reverb to the bell so it sounds like it’s in a real space.
  • I tweak the attack and decay sliders to make the bell hit softer or harder.
  • Experiment with the built-in effects to find unique textures that fit the track.
  • Try using sidechain compression so the bell doesn’t clash with the kick drum.
  • Adjust the stereo width to keep the bell centered or spread it across the mix for atmosphere.

7. B-2 BELLY

B-2 BELLY VST Plugin by Quilcom
B-2 BELLY by Quilcom

OS: Windows Win Bit Version: 32-bit, 64-bit Developer: Quilcom Size: 28 MB Rating: 74/100

B-2 BELLY offers an expressive way to create bell-like and metallic tones using both synthesis and sampling. It includes tools to shape strikes, body tones, and resonance, giving producers flexibility to design shimmering bells, percussive metallic hits, or smooth synthetic sounds.

The plugin also lets you blend samples with its synth engine, apply filters, and record new sounds as WAV files for later use. Its presets act as starting points for creative sound design, helping music makers quickly build unique tones that can range from bright chimes to deep, evolving textures.

Features

  • Creates Bell-Like And Metallic Sounds
  • Includes Synth And Sample Sections
  • Flexible Sample Player With Filters
  • Offers Frequency And Phase Modulation
  • Adds Natural Sound Imperfections
  • Multiple Envelope Controls For Sound Shaping
  • Customizable Sound Modes And Layers
  • Built-In Recorder Exports WAV Files
  • Supports Both 32-Bit And 64-Bit Formats
  • Reasonable CPU Usage During Playback

B-2 BELLY Rating

74% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 38/50
  • Interface: 7/10
  • Features: 9/10
  • Ease of Use: 8/10
  • Compatibility: 5/10
  • Performance: 7/10

Pros

  • Creates rich bell-like tones
  • Unique physics-based synthesis engine
  • Mixes samples with synthesis
  • Includes built-in sound recorder
  • Can export WAV files directly
  • Wide variety of presets included
  • Low CPU use for big sounds
  • Flexible sound shaping controls
  • Natural, organic sound character
  • Loads and edits samples easily

Cons

  • No macOS version available
  • Interface looks dated
  • Limited sound layering options
  • Few included acoustic samples
  • No built-in modulation matrix
  • Preset sounds feel similar
  • Limited automation support
  • No built-in reverb or delay
  • Sample import lacks drag-and-drop
  • Less vibrant bell quality

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • B2 Belly is a great example of using physical modelling in a musical and fun way – xtal
  • Only managed a quick play with this one but very impressed with both sound and ease of use, I like the phaser a lot – PingEP
  • This one sounds very organic to me, in a good way, and it’s fun to play – nofish
  • It can produce some very rich evolving timbres that I don’t easily get from my other synths – robertg
  • Thanks so much for sharing this, it’s a very unusual yet useful sound design tool – vitalker

B-2 BELLY Tips

  • I adjust the attack and decay to make the bell sound softer or sharper depending on the song.
  • I use the detune control to add a little shimmer and make the bells sound more alive.
  • I like to mix B-2 BELLY with reverb to make it sound like the bells are in a big hall.
  • When I use multiple instances, I pan each one differently to create a wide stereo field.
  • Use automation to change parameters over time and keep the bell sound interesting.
  • If the sound is too harsh, I roll off the high end with an EQ to make it smoother.
  • Add a touch of delay to give the bells a dreamy, echoing quality.

8. Labs Hand Bells

Labs Hand Bells VST Plugin by Spitfire Audio
Labs Hand Bells by Spitfire Audio

OS: Windows Win Bit Version: 64-bit Developer: Spitfire Audio Size: 134.5 MB Rating: 71/100

Labs Hand Bells offers bright, shimmering tones recorded from real hand bells at Spitfire Studios. The sounds include natural vibrato and subtle ghostly effects, giving them a lively and slightly unpredictable character that works well for gentle melodies or festive layers.

This plugin features three sound options and simple controls for volume, tone, and dynamics. Its clear interface makes it easy to adjust the bell textures, from soft background sparkles to fuller, ringing tones, adding warmth and charm to any musical track.

Features

  • Includes Three Hand Bell Sounds
  • Available In VST And AU
  • Supports 64-Bit Operation
  • Library Menu For Sound Selection
  • Round Dial For Tone Blending
  • Keyboard Display Shows Played Notes
  • MIDI Channel Selection Option
  • Tune Control Adjusts Pitch
  • Pan Control Adjusts Stereo Position
  • Includes Vibrato And Ghostly Effects

Labs Hand Bells Rating

71% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 37/50
  • Interface: 7/10
  • Features: 5/10
  • Ease of Use: 7/10
  • Compatibility: 8/10
  • Performance: 7/10

Pros

  • Free and high quality sounds
  • Warm and glistening bell tone
  • Better realism than most free bells
  • Low CPU and memory use
  • Soft or strong tone control
  • Vibrato adds gentle motion
  • Instant nostalgic and dreamy sounds
  • Great for cinematic sound design
  • Great layering under pianos
  • Very small file size

Cons

  • Too few sound options
  • No built-in reverb control
  • Limited tonal variety
  • No built-in EQ tools
  • Sound can feel synthetic
  • No velocity sensitivity options
  • Few customizable settings
  • No ADSR envelope control
  • Hard to blend with others
  • Loads slower than some VSTs

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • Sometimes I turn to LABS Hand Bells when I want something twinkly and nostalgic in the high end – MarcusF
  • I love using LABS Hand Bells layered quietly under a piano to give it a kind of Christmassy shimmer without sounding like straight up sleigh bells – user_ignatius
  • LABS Hand Bells has this kind of warbly, human timing to the hits that makes it feel like a real handbell choir rather than a clinical sampled glockenspiel – k444
  • Hand Bells from Spitfire’s LABS is one of those free instruments that instantly makes anything you play sound like the score to a winter indie movie – plasticlight
  • The Spitfire LABS Hand Bells patch is so loud compared to the other LABS instruments that I always end up pulling it down 6–10 dB as soon as I load it – _midigen

Labs Hand Bells Tips

  • I like to layer the Labs Hand Bells with a pad sound to make the music sound richer and fuller.
  • I use a little reverb to make the bells sound like they are in a big hall.
  • I like to pan different bell notes left and right for a wider stereo feel.
  • I use EQ to take out some low frequencies so the bells sound clean and bright.
  • Adding delay can make a single bell hit echo nicely through the mix.
  • Bells sound best when played with space between notes; letting them ring gives life to the music.
  • Automating volume changes can make a bell line feel more alive and expressive.

9. Sonatina Chimes

Sonatina Chimes VST Plugin by bigcat Instruments
Sonatina Chimes by bigcat Instruments

OS: Windows Win Bit Version: 32-bit, 64-bit Developer: bigcat Instruments Size: 12 MB Rating: 62/100

Sonatina Chimes is a virtual instrument that brings the clear, resonant sound of tubular bells to your digital studio. Taken from the public domain Sonatina Orchestra library, it captures the natural tone of real chimes for use in orchestral, cinematic, or ambient music projects.

The plugin includes simple sound shaping tools such as volume, pan, attack, decay, sustain, and release. An instrument selector allows switching between chimes and other orchestra sounds, and the built-in keyboard makes it easy to preview and play notes directly within the plugin.

Features

  • Sampled Tubular Bells Instrument
  • Available In VST And AU
  • Supports 32-Bit And 64-Bit
  • Volume Control For Sound Level
  • Pan Control For Stereo Balance
  • Attack Adjusts Sound Start Time
  • Decay Controls Sound Drop Speed
  • Sustain Sets Note Hold Time
  • Release Adjusts Sound Fade Duration
  • Built-In Keyboard For Note Play

Sonatina Chimes Rating

62% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 30/50
  • Interface: 5/10
  • Features: 4/10
  • Ease of Use: 9/10
  • Compatibility: 6/10
  • Performance: 8/10

Pros

  • Free and easy to download
  • Clean and natural chime sounds
  • Realistic tubular bell sampling
  • Low CPU use for smooth play
  • Adjustable sustain for lasting tones
  • Works on both 32-bit and 64-bit
  • Available in VST and AU formats
  • Part of full orchestra library
  • Open source and community supported
  • Great for film and game music

Cons

  • Sound can be uneven in chords
  • Limited to basic sound controls
  • No built-in reverb or effects
  • Interface looks old and plain
  • No macOS or Linux support
  • No velocity or expression control
  • Not very CPU efficient
  • Hard to fit in modern mixes
  • No updates or support team
  • Cannot import user samples

What Users Say

  • This is so beautifully sampled and supernatural sounding it is ridiculous that it costs nothing – LouShui
  • However, quibbles aside, this is a well sampled choir VSTi that has served me very well in several of my projects and compositions – Alunanie
  • For those of you who, like me, write classical music using libre/free VSTi’s, this one is a gem, capable of supplementing just about any texture you can come up with – Alunanie
  • I know that you were just doing the ‘translation’ but I actually prefer your version as a VSTi – A Future in Noise
  • Many thanks to Joseph for his talented work, and his generosity – Marco

Sonatina Chimes Tips

  • I use reverb to make the chimes sound like they’re ringing in a big room.
  • I try layering the chimes with a soft pad sound for a dreamy feeling.
  • I change the velocity of each note to make my chime parts sound more human.
  • Add a slight delay effect to give the bells a shiny, echoing sound.
  • EQ out some low mids if the chimes sound too thick or muddy.
  • Experiment with pitch shifting to create small chime harmonies or layers.

10. Christmas Belly

Christmas Belly VST Plugin by Quilcom
Christmas Belly by Quilcom

OS: Windows Win Bit Version: 32-bit Developer: Quilcom Size: 18 MB Rating: 58/100

Christmas Belly is a VST plugin that models a set of lively wind chimes. It combines a simple FM synthesizer, a wind generator, and a striker filter to create natural, shifting bell tones. Wind intensity adjusts the timing and feel of each strike, keeping every playthrough fresh.

You can shape your sound by setting up to eight tunable bells and mixing wind, ringers, and ambience levels. A MIDI input lets you perform freely, while pitch, scale, and tuning controls make it easy to craft anything from gentle background chimes to bright, holiday sparkle.

Features

  • Models Realistic Wind Chime Sounds
  • Simple FM Sound Generator
  • Up To Eight Tunable Bells
  • Adjustable Wind Strike Control
  • MIDI Input For Instrument Play
  • Adjustable Ambience And Distance
  • Octave And Semitone Shifting
  • Reverb And EQ Sections Included
  • Preset Save And Load Feature
  • Round-Robin Layering System

Christmas Belly Rating

58% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 30/50
  • Interface: 6/10
  • Features: 7/10
  • Ease of Use: 6/10
  • Compatibility: 3/10
  • Performance: 6/10

Pros

  • Unique mix of wind and bells
  • Up to eight tunable bells
  • Custom scales and transposing options
  • Wind intensity adds realism
  • Random strikes make sounds organic
  • Mixable sound layers enhance variety
  • Stretch tuning for creative dissonance
  • Round-robin layers reduce repetition
  • Animated bell gives visual feedback
  • Light on CPU usage

Cons

  • Only works on Windows
  • No support for Mac
  • Only 32-bit version
  • Not compatible with modern DAWs
  • Limited to simple bell tones
  • Lacks deep sound design tools
  • No built-in effects
  • Few presets available
  • Interface feels outdated
  • Does not support 64-bit hosts

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • Christmas Belly – a VST for bell sounds (Windows), including a large selection of presets and various controls to shape your bell sounds – Rekkerd.org
  • Looks worth looking at if you want bell-like tones, and the ‘round robins’ thing sounds like it might help remove some of that ‘MIDI-aliasing’ type of vibe that plagues some percussive synth sounds – aly james
  • Plenty of tones and tweaking to be had – Glyn
  • Really inspiring and fun – Fernando
  • Christmas Belly from Quilcom is a bell sound synthesizer based on modal synthesis which is great for creating all sorts of bell sounds for your music – Plugin Boutique user description
  • This plugin uses multiple ‘round robin’ layers to avoid machine gun effect on repeated notes and includes a built-in reverb and EQ section for further shaping – Plugin Boutique user description

Christmas Belly Tips

  • I adjust the attack setting to make the bells sound softer or sharper, depending on the song.
  • I use reverb to make the bell tones sound like they are in a big room or a church.
  • I change the decay to control how long the bell sound rings—long for dreamy songs, short for fast rhythms.
  • Using EQ can help remove extra low frequencies that bells don’t need.
  • Layering multiple bell presets together can create a lush, festive sound.
  • Velocity sensitivity settings help make the bells sound more natural when played on a MIDI keyboard.
  • Pan some bells slightly left or right to give the stereo field more space.

11. Carillon

Carillon VST Plugin by Tweakbench
Carillon by Tweakbench

OS: Windows Win Bit Version: 32-bit Developer: Tweakbench Size: 1 MB Rating: 58/100

Carillon offers a collection of bell and chime tones shaped through physical modeling, chorus, and reverb effects. It creates soft, bright, or haunting notes that fade naturally, letting you shape everything from gentle metallic hits to eerie, dreamlike textures with a few simple controls.

This plugin is designed for Windows and works as a 32-bit VST. Its lo-fi charm adds tape-like noise, shimmer, and wobble that fit nostalgic or spooky tracks. Carillon’s mix of warmth and imperfection gives music a mysterious tone that stands out in atmospheric styles.

Features

  • Physically Modeled Bell Synthesizer
  • Strike Control Adjusts Hit Strength
  • Metal Control Changes Tone Brightness
  • Ring Adjusts Echo And Resonance
  • Reverb Amount Controls Effect Level
  • Chorus Amount Adds Sound Richness
  • Special Knob Alters Sound Character
  • Produces Lo?Fi And Noisy Textures
  • Creates Eerie And Dreamy Tones
  • Low CPU Usage On 32?Bit Systems

Carillon Rating

58% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 28/50
  • Interface: 6/10
  • Features: 6/10
  • Ease of Use: 8/10
  • Compatibility: 2/10
  • Performance: 8/10

Pros

  • Very unique lo?fi bell sound
  • Built-in chorus and reverb
  • Adds dreamy, old-tape vibe
  • Adjustable echo and ring time
  • Customizable chime strength
  • Warm, tape-like character
  • Sounds like real broken chimes
  • Distinct tone unlike other bell VSTs
  • Ideal for horror or dream music
  • Low CPU use on most systems

Cons

  • Only works on Windows systems
  • No native Mac version available
  • Runs only in 32-bit mode
  • No support for VST3 format
  • Limited number of sound presets
  • Lacks built-in preset browser
  • No MIDI learn or automation
  • Effects sound outdated or thin
  • Can’t resize plugin window
  • Interface looks small and plain

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • Carillon is a very atmospheric, melloncholic plug in, perfect for adding some weird, haunting vibe to your songs – SwampThang
  • Carillon is a toy piano/bells instrument designed to make eerie, dreamy, and slightly broken sounds – plasticvision
  • Carillon tends to sit nicely in a mix without much extra processing because it is already filtered and textured – plasticvision
  • Carillon has been one of my secret weapons for making creepy, childlike melodies in horror soundtracks – SpitfireAudioUser
  • It does one thing, spooky toy box bells, but it does that thing very well and with a lot of character – DeviantSound

Carillon Tips

  • I use reverb to make the bells sound like they’re playing in a big hall.
  • I like to layer Carillon with another soft pad to make the bells sound fuller.
  • I adjust the tone knob to find the perfect brightness for my song.
  • I use velocity changes to make the bells sound more natural, just like a real player.
  • Using a high-pass filter removes extra low-end noise from bell sounds.
  • Adjusting stereo width can make the bells spread nicely across the mix.
  • Experimenting with tempo-synced delay can make bell patterns sound rhythmic.

12. IOTA MINI

IOTA MINI VST Plugin by AngelicVibes
IOTA MINI by AngelicVibes

OS: Windows Win Mac Mac Bit Version: 64-bit Developer: AngelicVibes Size: 573 MB Rating: 51/100

IOTA MINI is a free virtual instrument by AngelicVibes made for producers creating Trap, Hip Hop, and RnB. It includes 50 ready-to-use presets and 10 drum kits with bold 808s, keys, and plucks to help spark new musical ideas quickly and easily.

IOTA MINI offers a simple interface with essential controls like reverb, cutoff, attack, and release for shaping sounds. It can also load expansion packs for more variety. Designed with modern sounds, it’s a compact option for producers looking to add sharp melodies and drums to their tracks.

Features

  • Free Trap Virtual Instrument Plugin
  • Includes 50 Factory Presets
  • Comes With 60 Drum Samples
  • Built-In Drum Machine Feature
  • Supports VST And AU Formats
  • Designed For Trap And Hip Hop
  • Cutoff Control Adjusts Sound Brightness
  • Reverb Effect Adds Space And Echo
  • Modern And Simple User Interface
  • Compatible With 64-Bit Systems

IOTA MINI Rating

51% Rating
  • Sound Quality: 28/50
  • Interface: 5/10
  • Features: 4/10
  • Ease of Use: 7/10
  • Compatibility: 5/10
  • Performance: 2/10

Pros

  • Free to download and use
  • Includes 50 factory presets
  • Designed for Trap and Hip Hop
  • Modern and clean interface
  • Reverb control adds great space
  • Attack and release adjustments
  • Professional quality sound design
  • Expansion packs for more options
  • Quick preset browser for workflow
  • Light download size for storage

Cons

  • High CPU usage during playback
  • Crashes on some DAWs frequently
  • Not optimized for low-end PCs
  • Reports of possible virus issues
  • No clear customer support help
  • Slow developer response times
  • Few sound customization controls
  • Limited variety of bell sounds
  • Missing modern plugin effects tools
  • Competitors offer more realistic tones

Video Demo

What Users Say

  • I recently purchased Iota Mini from them and I was provided with a download link containing what looked to be a virus that was immediately quarantined by my AV protection – Trendikidd
  • I just downloaded the demo plugin and it seems to work ok and I got no virus warnings from Windows Defender – TimS
  • The sounds in Iota Mini are actually decent for trap and hip hop but the plugin feels really unoptimized – Fanuj
  • Iota Mini has some really hard hitting 808s and plucks that I still layer into my beats – BKingBeats
  • I’ve been using Iota Mini mainly for quick idea sketches because the presets are ready to go for modern hip hop – n9netails

IOTA MINI Tips

  • I use the filter knob to soften harsh highs and make the bell sound smoother.
  • I often layer the same bell sound with a slightly detuned copy to make it sound wider.
  • I adjust the reverb size until the bell feels just right for the mix—too much can make it blurry.
  • I turn down the low frequencies on bell sounds so they don’t clash with the bass.
  • Experiment with panning bells left and right to create a wide stereo sound.
  • Use modulation effects, like chorus or phaser, to make the bell sound move and shimmer.


Bell VST Plugins Compared

This table compares the bell plugins by operating system, bit version, format, and rating.

In-depth comparison of Bell VST plugins, including features, controls, OS, bit version, and more.
Features Desk Bell Labs Christmas Chamber Orchestra 2 Miscellania II: Holiday Bells BellsEbuth Medicine Bell B-2 BELLY Labs Hand Bells Sonatina Chimes Christmas Belly Carillon IOTA MINI
Image Desk Bell Labs Christmas Chamber Orchestra 2 Miscellania II: Holiday Bells BellsEbuth Medicine Bell B-2 BELLY Labs Hand Bells Sonatina Chimes Christmas Belly Carillon IOTA MINI
Rating 88 Good! 86 Good! 81 Good! 76 Solid 75 Solid 75 Solid 74 Solid 71 Solid 62 Decent 58 Average 58 Average 51 Average
OS Windows, Mac Windows Windows, Mac Windows Windows, Mac Windows Windows Windows Windows Windows Windows Windows, Mac
Formats Kontakt VST VST, AU VST, AU VST, AU VST, AU VST VST, AU VST, AU VST VST VST, AU
Bit Version 32-bit, 64-bit 64-bit 32-bit, 64-bit 32-bit, 64-bit 32-bit, 64-bit 32-bit, 64-bit 32-bit, 64-bit 64-bit 32-bit, 64-bit 32-bit 32-bit 64-bit
Developer Soundiron Spitfire Audio Versilian Studios LLC. Versilian Studios Alan ViSTa TDJaudio Quilcom Spitfire Audio bigcat Instruments Quilcom Tweakbench AngelicVibes
License Commercial Freeware Commercial Freeware Freeware Freeware Freeware Freeware Freeware Freeware Freeware Freeware
Sample-Based Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Select Yes Yes
Download Size 590 MB 478.9 MB 1.5 GB 41 MB 63 MB 7 MB 28 MB 134.5 MB 12 MB 18 MB 1 MB 573 MB
CPU Load Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low
Polyphony 12 64 256 64 32 8 8 64 32 8 8 8
Features Multi-layer interface, Dynamic round-robins, Ambient pads, Custom FX presets, Advanced arpeggiator, Modulation controls, Convolution reverb Festive instruments, Layer blending, Volume control, Reverb options, Keyboard display, MIDI control, Cinematic textures Open-source library, Orchestral instruments, Multiple articulations, Expression controls, Built-in reverb, Visual keyboard, Customizable samples Chimes variety, Round-robin tambourines, Wind chime loops, Bell ambiance, Velocity dynamics, Simple interface, Reverb control Sampled Orchestral Bells, Stereo Samples, Release Time, Sustain Control, Dynamic Range, Volume Control, MIDI Range Gem instrument, Flower instrument, Butterfly instrument, Reverb control, Wave speed, Wave intensity, Impact control Bell synthesis, Sample layering, Dynamic filtering, Inbuilt recorder, Sound shaping, Preset library, Modulation control Hand bell samples, Vibrato effects, Ghostly textures, Layer blending, Volume control, Pitch tuning, Pan adjustment Volume control, Panning, Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release, Instrument selector FM synthesis, Random wind, Tunable bells, MIDI control, Ambience control, Scale shifting, Animated interface Physically modeled synthesis, Bell tones, Chorus effect, Reverb effect, Lo-fi texture, Atmospheric sound, Simple interface Trap Sounds, Drum Machine, Factory Presets, Expansion Packs, Modern Interface, Reverb Control, Sound Design
Controls Layer 1, Layer 2, Ambience, Sub-Synth, Volume, Attack, Release Instrument Menu, Main Dial, Vertical Sliders, Reverb Selector, Keyboard Display, MIDI Controls, Version Number Instrument Selector, Articulation Picker, Attack Control, Decay Control, Sustain Control, Release Control, Volume Knob Attack, Sustain, Decay, Release, Gain, Pan, Reverb Dynamic Control, Sustain Level, Release Time, Volume Control, Dynamic Range, Keyboard Range, Keyboard Display Gem Button, Flower Button, Butterfly Button, Reverb Knob, Wave Speed Knob, Wave Intensity Knob, Location Knob Strike Env, Body Envs, Pitch & Fine, HPF & LPF, FM/PM Offset, Error & Degen, Sample Section Library Menu, Vertical Slider, Round Dial, Colored Icons, Keyboard, Top Bar Meters, MIDI Channel Selector Volume, Pan, Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release, Instrument Selector Notes And Bells, Semitones, Transpose, Tuning Stretch, WAND, Chimes On, Ringers Strike, Metal, Length, Ring, Loudness, Chorus Amount, Reverb Amount Preset Selector, Previous Button, Next Button, Cut Off, Reverb, Attack, Release
Effects Included Phaser, flanger, delay, distortion, amp simulator, cabinet simulator, compressor, EQ, rotator, reverb Reverb Reverb Reverb Release Time, Sustain Level, Amplitude Dynamic Range, Volume, Basic Filter Reverb, Limiter, Saturation Phaser, High-pass filter, Low-pass filter, Dynamic filter Vibrato, ghostly effects Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release Reverb, EQ Chorus, Reverb Cut Off, Reverb, Attack, Release
MIDI Learn Unknown Unknown No Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown
Presets 20 9 N/A 26 N/A 50 32 2 N/A 12 16 50
Standalone No No No Yes No Yes Yes No No Yes No No
Last Updated 02/25/2021 12/14/2023 05/12/2024 12/20/2021 06/25/2018 03/14/2024 03/23/2023 04/25/2019 09/17/2016 12/24/2020 06/26/2006 09/10/2023

Favorite Bell VST Plugin

Our top pick for the best free bell VST plugin is Christmas by Spitfire Audio. It offers high quality samples, a clean interface, and is available for Windows and Mac.

Table of our favorite Bell VST plugin.
Features Labs Christmas
Image Labs Christmas
Rating 86 Good!
OS Windows
Formats VST
Bit Version 64-bit
Developer Spitfire Audio
License Freeware
Sample-Based Yes
Download Size 478.9 MB
CPU Load Low
Polyphony 64
Features Festive instruments, Layer blending, Volume control, Reverb options, Keyboard display, MIDI control, Cinematic textures
Controls Instrument Menu, Main Dial, Vertical Sliders, Reverb Selector, Keyboard Display, MIDI Controls, Version Number
Effects Included Reverb
Download Download Labs Christmas

Bell VST FAQs

How to Install Bell VST Plugins

To install bell VST plugins on Windows or Mac, extract the files from the Zip or Rar. Move the files (.dll for Windows or .component for Mac) into your DAW’s plugin folder. Then restart your software and rescan the directory to complete the process. Tutorial: How to Install VST Plugins

Windows:

Extract the downloaded zip file and copy the .dll file into the VST plugins folder scanned by your DAW. Restart your music software and rescan your plugin directory to begin using the new VST.

Mac OS X:

Extract the downloaded archive and move the .component or .VST file to the plugin folder. It is usually /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/Components or /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST. Restart your DAW and rescan your plugins to complete the installation.

What Is A Bell VST Plugin?

A bell VST plugin is a virtual instrument that reproduces bell sounds, often used in orchestral or choral music. These plugins can contain audio samples recorded from real bell instruments or produce synthesized bell sounds.

Bell sounds are commonly used in orchestras, church music, or holiday music. These free bell plugins are great alternatives if you do not have a bell instrument handy.


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

Related: Best Free Orchestral VST Plugins

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.

Join Over 10,000 Readers: Email | YouTube | Instagram | Facebook | X

Comments

  1. The BBC Orcherstra Discover from Spitfire audio also has great bells and it’s free

Leave a Comment

X Facebook Pinterest Email