Sculpting the Vaporwave Aesthetic: 8 Powerful VST Plugins for Retro-Inspired Sounds

The vaporwave music genre is all about nostalgia and retro aesthetics. Emerging in the early 2010s, vaporwave draws inspiration from 1980s and 90s pop music, advertising jingles, smooth jazz, and more to create a surreal, digitized soundworld.

While sampling classic tracks is a big part of the vaporwave sound, many producers like to generate their own retro-inspired sounds using virtual studio technology, or VST plugins. Software instruments allow for endless experimentation and adaptation beyond what’s possible with samples alone.

Here are eight top-rated VSTs that will help bring your vaporwave tracks to life with lo-fi, retro-futuristic tones:

Softube Model 84: This plugin meticulously recreates the legendary Roland Juno-106, a polysynth synonymous with 80s synthpop. Its lush pads and smooth leads are perfect for laying the foundation of your vaporwave track.

U-he Diva: Dive into the thick, creamy world of the Minimoog Model D with this powerhouse VST. Diva’s fat basslines and characterful leads are ideal for adding warmth and grit to your vaporwave productions.

Arturia 2600 V: Embrace the experimental side of vaporwave with the versatile Arturia 2600 V. This plugin emulates the iconic ARP 2600 semi-modular synth, known for its wild sonic capabilities and unconventional sound design.

U-he Repro: The Sequential Prophet-5, a cornerstone of 80s synth history, comes alive in the U-he Repro. Repro delivers the Prophet’s unmistakable character, from its glassy chords to its cutting leads, perfect for crafting those bright, airy textures synonymous with vaporwave.

Dexed: Looking to add some digital nostalgia? Dexed faithfully emulates the Yamaha DX7, the groundbreaking FM synth that defined the sounds of the 80s. Dexed’s glassy bells and plucky textures will add a distinct vaporwave flavor to your tracks.

PG-8X — ML-VST (Free): Who says great VSTs can’t be free? PG-8X offers a fantastic emulation of the Roland Juno-60 synthesizer, another staple of the 80s sound. Its lush pads and chorus effects are perfect for creating that signature vaporwave haze.

TAL-NoiseMaker Don’t underestimate the power of free plugins! TAL-NoiseMaker is a virtual replica of the Roland SH-101 monosynth, known for its aggressive basslines and squelchy leads. It’s a fantastic tool for adding a bit of bite to your vaporwave productions.

Cassette (by Wavesfactory): Infuse your tracks with the warmth and imperfections of yesteryear with Cassette. This plugin simulates the effects of tape saturation and wow & flutter, adding a touch of lo-fi magic to your vaporwave creations.