Each guide starts from a real purchasing question, explains what matters for that job, and compares products using facts from manufacturer documentation. We say plainly when we haven't tested something.
Synthesis
Which software synthesiser should I buy for electronic music production?
Decide on the synthesis method first and the product second. Wavetable and hybrid synths (Serum 2, Pigments, Vital) excel at moving, modern timbres; a dedicated analogue model like Diva trades flexibility and CPU for a focused, classic architecture.
Dynamics
Which compressor plug-in should I use for electronic music production?
You probably don't need to buy a compressor to start. Logic users already have Compressor, with seven circuit types and a side-chain section, and anyone can add the free DC1A for quick, characterful compression.
Mixing
Which EQ plug-in should I use for mixing electronic music?
Most electronic mixes need two things from EQ: clean static shaping, and dynamic EQ for frequencies that are only a problem some of the time, such as a kick and bass sharing the same low end.
Logic Pro
Which plug-ins does a beginner using Logic Pro actually need to buy?
Very little, at first. Logic Pro includes a full set of instruments and effects, including Channel EQ, Compressor, ChromaVerb and Alchemy. Learning those well is worth more than any purchase.
Reverb
Which reverb plug-in should I buy for ambient music?
If you want to start without spending anything, Valhalla Supermassive is free, runs in every major plug-in format on macOS and Windows, and is built specifically around long, modulated reverb and delay modes.
Comparison
Should I buy FabFilter Pro-Q 4 or use the free TDR Nova?
Start with TDR Nova. It is free, and its documentation covers the core of dynamic EQ: four bands with their own threshold, ratio, attack and release, high- and low-pass filters, a wideband dynamics section, external side-chain input and mid or side processing. It runs on Linux as well as macOS and Windows.