Plugins

Mar 31 2023

Waves New Subscription Plan is a Controversial Mess

Waves Audio is one of the most reputable and well-known companies in the music production industry. They are renowned for their high-quality plugins, software, and hardware that have been used by professional producers, engineers, and musicians for many years. Waves has always been known for its traditional model of one-time purchases for its software and plugins. However, recently, the company introduced a new subscription plan that has caused quite a stir in the music production community.

Overview of Waves subscription plan

The subscription plan introduced by Waves is called the Waves Update Plan (WUP), which is a new subscription service that allows users to access the latest updates, upgrades, and additional features of their Waves plugins and software. The Waves Update Plan is available as an annual or monthly subscription and provides users with access to all the latest developments and updates.

The Waves Update Plan subscription model has been designed to provide users with a more flexible and cost-effective way to access the latest software and plugins. It is intended to provide users with a more affordable option to access the latest updates and features.

Controversies surrounding Waves subscription plan

The Waves Update Plan has caused controversy within the music production community. One of the biggest concerns is the pricing structure of the subscription plan. Many users are outraged at the pricing structure and the potential impact on their wallets. The Waves Update Plan subscription model is significantly more expensive than their traditional one-time purchase model. This means that users will have to pay a never-ending subscription fee to access the software they rely on for their music production needs.

Another issue with the Waves Update Plan is that it is not clear whether users will have access to their plugins and software if they decide not to renew their subscription. This means that users could potentially lose access to the software they have paid for if they do not renew their subscription.

Negative impact on existing Waves users

Existing Waves users have been negatively impacted by the introduction of the Waves Update Plan. Many users have invested a significant amount of money into Waves plugins and software. However, with the introduction of the subscription plan, they will have to pay an additional fee to access the latest updates and features. This has left many users feeling frustrated and betrayed by Waves.

Some users have also reported issues with the Waves Update Plan, such as problems with compatibility and installation. This has further added to the frustration and anger of existing Waves users.

Comparison with other subscription models

The Waves Update Plan subscription model has been compared to other subscription models in the music production industry. Many users have pointed out that other companies offer similar subscription models, but at a lower cost. This has led to some users considering switching to other companies.

Waves response to criticism

Waves has responded to the criticism of the Waves Update Plan by stating that the subscription model is intended to provide users with a more affordable option to access the latest updates and features. They have also stated that they will be introducing new features and updates to the Waves Update Plan subscription model to address the concerns of users.

Alternatives to Waves subscription plan

There are several alternatives to the Waves Update Plan subscription model. Some users have opted to switch to other companies that offer similar software and plugins at a lower cost. Others have chosen to invest in open-source software or free plugins. However, these alternatives may not offer the same level of quality and support as Waves plugins and software.

User opinions and feedback

The introduction of the Waves Update Plan has sparked a lot of discussion within the music production community. Many users have expressed their frustration and anger at the pricing structure and the potential impact on their wallets. However, some users have also praised the added features and benefits of the subscription plan.

Conclusion and final thoughts

The Waves Update Plan subscription model has caused controversy within the music production community. While some users are excited about the added features and benefits of the subscription, many are outraged at the pricing structure and the potential impact on their wallets. Existing Waves users have been negatively impacted by the introduction of the Waves Update Plan, and many have considered switching to other companies or investing in open-source software or free plugins. It remains to be seen what the future holds for the Waves Update Plan subscription model and what this could mean for the music production industry as a whole.

Mar 31 2023

Spectrasonics Introduces Twisted Trees: The Cutting-Edge Sample Library for Music Production and Film Scoring

Spectrasonics has been a renowned name in the world of music production for years, and their latest offering, the Twisted Trees extension, is a game-changer. This cutting-edge software offers a diverse range of sounds that give producers the freedom to explore new sonic landscapes. With its unique blend of organic and synthetic elements, Twisted Trees extension is perfect for those who want to create complex and atmospheric compositions. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or just starting out, this extension will help you take your music to the next level. In this blog article, we’ll take a closer look at the Twisted Trees extension and explore how it can revolutionize the way you create music.

Overview of the sample library

The Twisted Trees extension is a sample library that offers a wide range of sounds that are perfect for music production and film scoring. The library features a collection of organic and synthetic sounds, including pads, drones, textures, and rhythms. The sounds have been carefully crafted to provide producers with a unique and diverse range of sonic possibilities.

The Twisted Trees extension is a standalone product that can be used with any DAW. It is compatible with both Mac and PC, and it comes with an intuitive interface that makes it easy to use. The extension features a browser that allows you to easily browse through the sounds and select the ones that you want to use in your compositions.

Features and benefits of Twisted Trees

The Twisted Trees extension offers numerous features and benefits that make it stand out from other sample libraries. Firstly, the extension offers a wide range of sounds that are perfect for music production and film scoring. The sounds are unique and diverse, allowing producers to create complex and atmospheric compositions.

Another great feature of the Twisted Trees extension is its intuitive interface. The extension is easy to use, and the browser makes it easy to find the sounds that you want to use in your compositions. The extension also features a range of powerful tools that allow you to manipulate sounds and create unique textures.

The Twisted Trees extension is also highly customizable. You can easily tweak the sounds to your liking and create your own unique sonic landscapes. The extension also offers a range of effects that allow you to add depth and character to your compositions.

How Twisted Trees can enhance music production

The Twisted Trees extension offers a wide range of sounds that can enhance music production in numerous ways. The extension is perfect for producers who want to create complex and atmospheric compositions. The organic and synthetic sounds can be blended together to create unique textures and sonic landscapes.

The Twisted Trees extension is also perfect for sound designers. The extension offers a range of sounds that can be manipulated and tweaked to create new and unique sounds. The extension also offers a range of effects that can be used to add depth and character to your compositions.

How Twisted Trees can enhance film scoring

The Twisted Trees extension is perfect for film scoring. The extension offers a range of sounds that are perfect for creating atmospheric and cinematic compositions. The organic and synthetic sounds can be blended together to create unique textures and sonic landscapes that are perfect for film scoring.

The extension also offers a range of effects that can be used to add depth and character to your compositions. The effects can be used to create tension, suspense, and drama in your compositions, making them perfect for film scoring.

Twisted Trees vs. other sample libraries

The Twisted Trees extension stands out from other sample libraries for several reasons. Firstly, the extension offers a wide range of unique and diverse sounds that are perfect for music production and film scoring. The sounds have been carefully crafted to provide producers with a unique and diverse range of sonic possibilities.

Another reason why the Twisted Trees extension stands out from other sample libraries is its intuitive interface. The extension is easy to use, and the browser makes it easy to find the sounds that you want to use in your compositions. The extension also features a range of powerful tools that allow you to manipulate sounds and create unique textures.

Pricing and availability

The Twisted Trees extension is currently available for purchase on the Spectrasonics website. The extension is priced at $149, which is a reasonable price considering the range of sounds and features that it offers.

Testimonials and reviews

The Twisted Trees extension has received positive reviews from producers and sound designers around the world. Producers and sound designers have praised the extension for its unique and diverse range of sounds, as well as its intuitive interface and powerful tools.

How to purchase and download Twisted Trees

To purchase and download the Twisted Trees extension, simply visit the Spectrasonics website. The extension is available for purchase and download immediately after purchase. Once you have downloaded the extension, simply install it on your computer and start using it with your DAW.

Conclusion

The Twisted Trees extension is a game-changing addition to the world of music production and film scoring. The extension offers a wide range of unique and diverse sounds that can enhance your compositions in numerous ways. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or just starting out, the Twisted Trees extension will help you take your music to the next level. With its intuitive interface and powerful tools, you can easily manipulate sounds and create unique textures that will set your tracks apart from the rest. So, if you’re looking for a fresh and innovative approach to music production, Spectrasonics Twisted Trees extension is the perfect choice. Get ready to explore new sonic territories and unleash your creativity with this game-changing software.

Mar 30 2023

API Modeled Plugins: A Complete Guide to the Best Ones in 2023 for Music Production and Mixing

A Brief History of API Consoles and Channel Strips

API consoles and channel strips have been an essential part of the recording industry since their introduction in the 1960s. These tools became popular due to their unique, warm sound that was highly sought after by engineers and producers. The API sound was achieved through a combination of tube and solid-state technology that provided a clean, transparent sound with a touch of harmonic distortion.

API (Automated Processes, Inc.) was founded in 1968 by Saul Walker, who was a former engineer at Telefunken. The company was originally created to develop electronic test equipment for the audio industry. However, API soon became known for their high-quality consoles and channel strips, which were used on countless hit records of the 1970s and beyond.

API consoles were known for their simplicity and reliability. The consoles were designed with a modular construction, which made them easy to repair and modify. The channel strips were also modular, which made it easy for engineers to add or remove modules as needed. This modularity also allowed engineers to customize their consoles to fit their specific needs.

The API sound quickly became synonymous with the sound of rock music in the 1970s. Many classic records of that era, including Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours,” The Eagles’ “Hotel California,” and Led Zeppelin’s “Physical Graffiti,” were recorded using API consoles and channel strips. The API sound was also popular in other genres, such as funk and R&B, and was used on records by artists such as Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind & Fire, and James Brown.

Why Companies Create API-Based Plugins

As technology progressed, plug-in companies saw an opportunity to capitalize on the popularity of API gear by creating software versions of these coveted pieces of hardware. These simulated software plugins aim to recreate the distinctive API sound, while also providing greater flexibility and affordability.

One of the main benefits of API-based plugins is that they allow engineers to add the classic API sound to their mixes without having to invest in expensive hardware. This is particularly important for home studio owners and independent producers who may not have access to high-end gear.

Another benefit of API-based plugins is that they provide greater flexibility than hardware. With software plugins, engineers can easily tweak settings and experiment with different sounds. This flexibility allows engineers to recreate the classic API sound while also adding their own unique twist.

Comparing Universal Audio and Waves API-Based Plugins

One of the most well-known companies to produce API-based plugins is Universal Audio. Their line of API plugins includes the Vision Channel Strip, 2500 Bus Compressor, Preamp, and 500 EQ. The Vision Channel Strip is a recreation of the classic API 212L preamp, 225L dynamics, and 550L EQ, allowing users to add the classic API sound to their mixes in a single plugin. The 2500 Bus Compressor is a faithful emulation of the API 2500 stereo bus compressor, which has become a go-to for many mix engineers. The API preamp is a recreation of the 512c mic preamp, which provides the classic API preamp sound to any microphone or instrument. Finally, the API 500 EQ is modeled after the 550A and 560 graphic EQs, giving users access to the classic API EQ sound in a convenient, single plugin.

Another popular company that produces API-based plugins is Waves. Their line of API plugins includes the API Collection, which features emulations of the API 550A EQ, API 550B EQ, and API 2500 Bus Compressor. The API 550A EQ is a faithful emulation of the original hardware, providing users with the ability to add the classic API EQ sound to their mixes. The API 550B EQ is a newer version of the 550A, which provides greater flexibility and functionality. The API 2500 Bus Compressor is a faithful emulation of the API 2500 stereo bus compressor, providing users with the classic API compression sound on their mixes.

In terms of sound quality, both Universal Audio and Waves produce high-quality API-based plugins that accurately recreate the classic API sound. However, where Universal Audio really shines is in their Vision Channel Strip, which provides users with an all-in-one solution for adding the classic API sound to their mixes. Waves, on the other hand, provides users with a wider variety of API-based plugins to choose from, allowing users to pick and choose which pieces of hardware they want to emulate.

Overall, both Universal Audio and Waves offer excellent API-based plugins that can add the classic API sound to your mixes. Choosing between the two comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user. Whether you’re a home studio owner or a professional recording engineer, API-based plugins can provide a powerful tool for achieving the sound you’re looking for.

Mar 29 2023

The Difference between a Virtual Instrument and a Software Synthesizer

Virtual Instruments vs Software Synthersizers

A virtual instrument is a digital representation of a physical instrument that can be played and controlled using a MIDI controller or a computer keyboard. It can include software synths, but also other types of instruments like samplers, drum machines, and effects processors.

A software synth, on the other hand, is a type of virtual instrument that specifically generates electronic sounds using mathematical algorithms. It can simulate traditional analog synthesizers, but also create entirely new sounds that are not possible with physical instruments.

In essence, all software synths are virtual instruments, but not all virtual instruments are software synths.

A virtual instrument is a software-based music synthesizer that can imitate acoustic instruments, whereas a software synth is a type of virtual instrument that uses digital signal processing techniques to generate sounds. The main difference between the two is that virtual instruments can model the nuances and characteristics of specific acoustic instruments, while software synths are more versatile and can create a wider range of sounds. Additionally, virtual instruments often require more processing power and memory than software synths. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences.

Virtual instruments and software synthesizers are both types of software-based music synthesizers, but there are some subtle differences between the two:

Sound generation: Virtual instruments are designed to emulate the sound of acoustic instruments, such as pianos, guitars, and drums. Software synthesizers, on the other hand, use digital signal processing techniques to create sounds that are not necessarily based on any physical instrument.
User interface: Virtual instruments often have a user interface that mimics the physical instrument they are emulating, with virtual keys, strings, or drum pads. Software synthesizers usually have a more abstract user interface, with knobs, sliders, and buttons that control various sound parameters.
Flexibility: Software synthesizers are generally more versatile than virtual instruments, as they can create a wider range of sounds and can be used for a variety of genres. Virtual instruments are more specialized and are better suited for specific musical styles.
Processing power: Virtual instruments require more processing power and memory than software synthesizers, as they need to simulate the complex sound characteristics of acoustic instruments.
Cost: Virtual instruments can be more expensive than software synthesizers, as they require a lot of development and research to accurately emulate the sound of a physical instrument. Software synthesizers are often cheaper and more accessible.

Ultimately, the choice between virtual instruments and software synthesizers depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences