Top 10 Mixing Plugins Every Producer Should Try

Mixing music can be an art form, but having the right tools makes all the difference. I’ve compiled a list of my top 10 favorite plugins to help you work faster, stay inspired, and create professional mixes in your home studio. Whether you're after precision, speed, or creativity, these plugins have you covered.

1. Fabfilter Pro-Q 3

This EQ is an absolute workhorse. The intuitive interface makes every move faster and more efficient. With advanced filter options, a built-in dynamic EQ, and unmatched flexibility, it’s perfect for both subtle tonal shaping and deep problem-solving.

• Why I Love It: Fun to use, precise, and versatile enough to handle nearly any task.

It's now on it's fourth iteration, but I haven't had the time or need to check it out yet. Once I've done it, I'll make a separate article for that. 

2. UBK Blyss

Looking for that "glue" on your mix bus? UBK Blyss combines mastering EQ, tasteful saturation, and smooth compression in one elegant package.

• Why I Love It: Big, bold controls make it fun to use, and it delivers natural-sounding results.

3. Fabfilter Pro-C 2

A Swiss Army knife of compressors, this plugin can be clean, aggressive, or anywhere in between. It’s versatile, easy to use, and great for everything from vocals to drums.

• Why I Love It: Flexible, transparent, and dependable.

4. UAD LA-2A

This iconic compressor brings warmth and snap to vocals like no other. Its simplicity and character make it indispensable for achieving that polished vocal sound.

• Why I Love It: Effortless results with a classic vibe.

5. Izotope Tonal Balance Control

Worried about your mix translating to different systems? Tonal Balance Control gives you real-time visual feedback on your spectral balance, helping you make confident decisions.

• Why I Love It: It’s like a second set of ears for fine-tuning mixes.

6. Wavesfactory Trackspacer

Save time with this sidechain compression alternative. Trackspacer dynamically "carves out" space in your mix, making it easy to get kick drums, bass, and vocals to stand out.

• Why I Love It: Simple setup, powerful results.

7. Izotope Ozone Maximizer

This limiter tames peaks and enhances loudness without sacrificing clarity. Perfect for mix buses and vocals, it’s a must-have for final touches.

• Why I Love It: Intelligent processing that delivers clean, controlled mixes.

8. Soundtoys Echoboy

For creative delays, Echoboy is my go-to. With its vintage-inspired presets, rhythmic options, and rich saturation, it’s perfect for adding depth and dimension.

• Why I Love It: Tons of flexibility and character.

9. Valhalla Vintage Verb

Valhalla Vintage Verb makes reverb fun. From lush ambiances to gritty rooms, it adapts to almost any genre.

• Why I Love It: Incredible sound quality and an intuitive design.

10. Izotope Insight

Keep your mixes in check with this all-in-one metering solution. It provides detailed LUFS, peaks, and stereo field measurements, ensuring your mix meets industry standards.

• Why I Love It: Reliable metering to help you deliver professional mixes every time.

Honorable Mentions

Here are a few other plugins I regularly use:

• Logic’s Stock Compressor
• Oeksound Soothe 2
• Soundtoys Decapitator
• Fabfilter Pro-L
• Baby Audio Transit, Crystalline and Comeback Kid

Ready to Mix Faster?

If you’re looking to save even more time in your mixing workflow, grab my 6 free mixing templates for Logic Pro. They’re designed to help you start mixing immediately with professional-quality setups tailored to your genre. Download them now and see how much easier mixing can be!