🎛️ Slate Digital’s Free Virtual Mix Rack Plugins – No iLok Required!

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[Review + How to Install Only the Free Models]

Slate Digital just made a major move for producers and engineers: they’ve released three powerful Virtual Mix Rack plugins — completely free — and the best part? You no longer need an iLok USB dongle to use them. Whether you're just starting out or looking to upgrade your free plugin toolkit, these gems are absolutely worth checking out.

In this article, I’ll walk you through:

  • ✅ What plugins are included for free

  • ⚙️ How to install only what you need

  • 🎧 A quick breakdown of what each plugin does

  • 💬 My honest opinion on whether it's worth grabbing

  • 📥 Direct download tips + bonus deals at the end

Let’s dive in. 👇

🔓 What’s New — No More iLok Dongle

Traditionally, Slate Digital plugins required an iLok USB key. But not anymore.

You can now activate your free Virtual Mix Rack plugins using a machine license — no dongle necessary. That means you can run the plugins on up to two computers using just your iLok account. This small change removes a big barrier, especially for mobile producers and beginners.

🧰 What’s Included: 3 Free Mix Rack Plugins

Here’s what you get in the free bundle:

1. The Monster

An aggressive, punchy 1176-style compressor, perfect for drums, guitars, and FX. It’s based on the classic "All Buttons In" mode — known for its explosive energy and character.

2. Revival

A one-knob saturation and harmonic enhancer. It adds shimmer and thickness to your tracks with ease. Ideal for vocals and mixes that need that "analog warmth."

3. The Trimmer

A clean, simple gain and phase utility tool. Offers up to ±24 dB of trim, phase inversion, and a VU meter — essential for gain staging or mic phase adjustments.

⚙️ How to Install Only the Free Plugins (Pro Tip!)

If you use Slate Digital Connect, it downloads everything — including locked, paid plugins. That can be frustrating and clutter your plugin list.

💡 Pro Tip:
Download the standalone Virtual Mix Rack installer instead. This lets you select only the free plugins you want. Clean, simple, and clutter-free.

🎚️ Plugin Review: The Trimmer

Let’s start simple. The Trimmer does exactly what it says:

  • Adjust gain from -24 dB to +24 dB

  • Flip the phase for mic alignment

  • Monitor with a VU meter

Nothing flashy — just solid, reliable utility. Great for leveling vocals, guitar recordings, or keeping your mix clean.

✨ Plugin Review: Revival

This is where things get interesting. Revival offers just two options:

  • Shimmer: Adds high-frequency sparkle

  • Thickness: Adds low-mid warmth and body

It's incredibly easy to dial in. Think of it like Softube’s Saturation Knob, but smoother, more analog in feel. Throw it on a vocal or a full mix — the difference is immediate.

💥 Plugin Review: The Monster

The Monster lives up to its name. Inspired by the “All Buttons In” mode on the 1176, this is your go-to drum smasher.

Use the Mix knob to blend in the effect and preserve transients while keeping things punchy and loud. Fantastic on drums and guitars or to add character to flat loops.

🎯 Is It Worth Downloading?

If you already own premium plugins, these might not blow you away, but here’s the thing:

  • They’re free

  • They’re legit Slate Digital quality

  • They’re perfect for anyone building out a free plugin arsenal

  • And now they’re super easy to use — no dongle required

Bottom line: Even if you only use Revival or The Monster, they’re worth having in your back pocket.

📥 Download + Get Started

✅ Compatible with Windows & macOS
✅ Formats: VST2, VST3, AU, AAX
✅ Uses iLok machine license — no dongle needed
✅ Just sign up, activate, and you're in

Ready to try them? Head to Slate Digital's Virtual Mix Rack page and get started.

📺 Watch the Full Demo on YouTube

Want to see these plugins in action? Hear how they sound in a real-world mix setup?

▶️ Watch the full video here 




Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe if you found it helpful!

✌️ Final Thoughts

Whether you're a beginner building your plugin library or a seasoned pro looking for quick solutions, these free Slate Digital tools are a great addition to your workflow.

Stay creative, stay focused — and I’ll catch you in the next one.

❤️ Support the Channel – Grab Exclusive Plugin Deals

Want to support what I do? Use my affiliate links when checking out some of the best plugin deals online. It helps the channel — and you might grab something epic.

🎼 Scaler 3 – Advanced Music Theory + Chord Tools:
👉 https://shorturl.at/mdb6Y

🎛️ WA Production Deals – FX, synths & bundles:
👉 https://www.waproduction.com/#667c1d2...

🧩 Plugin Boutique, Loopcloud, and More – Industry go-tos:
👉 https://pluginboutique.com/?a_aid=666...
👉 https://loopcloud.com/?a_aid=666c0d2c...
👉 https://www.loopmasters.com/?a_aid=66...

🎹 Eric Bowman – Vital Preset Pack:
👉 https://gumroad.com/a/736597459/qrgiv

Thanks for supporting the channel 🙏

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