We get asked all the time: “Which plugins should I buy?”
Here’s the truth: you don’t need hundreds.
You need a tight, well-understood toolbox you can reach for in any situation.
More...
You've hit a wall with your audio skills and can't seem to improve your sound, no matter what you do?
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- Grow your audience on Spotify with songs that don't sound "demo-y".
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- Apply for unlimited, personal 1-on-1 mentoring (results guaranteed) - This is by far the fastest and best way to achieve your goals. Your gonna be working 1-on-1 with an experienced studio pro until your project is done. On your own songs, from your (home) studio and in your DAW of choice.
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In this episode we share the 10 plugins we’d keep for the rest of our lives, explain exactly why they made the cut, and point you to stock alternatives where it makes sense.
DAW-agnostic, rock-ready, and focused on what actually moves the needle for self-recording artists.
What You’ll Learn:
- Why fewer tools = faster, better mixes. Master a handful instead of collecting everything.
- The 10 essential plugin categories we’d keep forever—plus stock options where they work great.
- How to prioritize: instruments, amps, and samples first; plugins second.
- When to reach for color vs clean, and how to avoid “option paralysis.”
- A simple upgrade path that prevents wasted spend and shiny-object syndrome.
Action Steps:
- Listen to the episode
- Pick one plugin category you’re weakest in and commit to practicing it for a week. Then go to the next one.
- Build your 10-plugins template (one plugin per category, pre-loaded where it makes sense. Ready to go).
- Mix one song using only these 10. No extras.
(We don’t take money to push brands. If we recommend something on the podcast or YouTube, it’s because it works.)
Enjoy!
Ready To Transform Your Sound And Workflow?
Apply for professional mentoring and book a free clarity call with Benedikt to see if our programs are a great fit for you!
Related Episodes:
Related Articles:
Recommended Free Downloads:
Standout Mixes – The DIY Musician’s Guide To Exciting Mixes That Connect
Full Courses:
TSRB Free Facebook Community:
Mentioned On the Episode:
Outback Recordings (Benedikt's Mixing Studio and personal website)
If you have any questions, feedback, topic ideas or want to suggest a guest, email us at: podcast@theselfrecordingband.com