Hello! This is Jooyoung Kim, mixing engineer and music producer, and singer-songwriter.
Now, let’s dive into Part 2 – Virtual Instruments (Synthesizers, Sample-Based Instruments, Orchestration Tools).
As mentioned in Part 1, I’ve collaborated with Plugin Boutique for this guide. Links to products on Plugin Boutique will direct you there, while those unavailable on their platform will link to their respective websites or other discount pages.
Purchasing through Plugin Boutique links provides me with a small commission, which helps support my work. Your support is greatly appreciated!
This section is organized by instrument type for easier navigation.
Virtual Instruments
1) Acoustic Drums
- BFD3: My go-to acoustic drum plugin. While the initial setup might seem tricky, just a bit of knowledge about drum recording will let you create realistic drum tracks. At $42.9, it’s a steal! However, you’ll likely need to invest in some expansion packs for serious use.
- SSD5.5: Another solid acoustic drum plugin. Currently priced at $49. It also requires expansion packs for full functionality. I used to use the free version back on Cubase 10 with Windows, though there were compatibility issues back then. These should be resolved now.
- Superior Drummer 3: Although I haven’t used this personally, it’s a favorite among pop producers. It comes with a wealth of preloaded sounds but is quite pricey at €299 (Black Friday price).
- Addictive Drums 2: I haven’t tried this one either, but it seems to be a popular choice for simpler setups. Their discounted collections include the Custom Collection (3 kits for $92.4), Custom XL Collection (6 kits for $178.2), and Custom XXL Collection (10 kits for $273.9).
2) Piano & Synthesizer Emulations
- UVI Key Suite: Offers an extensive and diverse library of sampled pianos and synthesizers, surpassing even Keyscape. At $224, this is a great deal if you’re looking for an all-in-one bundle.
- Arturia V Collection X: Arturia excels at emulating classic synthesizers. This collection features 39 instruments, including acoustic pianos (Piano V, with nine piano types), electric pianos, and synthesizers. Priced at $328.9, it’s worth exploring if you love classic sounds.
- Korg Collection 5: This bundle includes 15 emulations of iconic Korg synthesizers and is priced at $328.9.
Other honorable mentions include Native Instruments Komplete, Roland Cloud subscriptions, Xfer Serum, Keyscape, and Omnisphere, though they don’t seem to have discounts at the moment. Perhaps on the day itself?
3) Bass Virtual Instruments & Guitar Effects
- IK Multimedia Modo Bass 2: Instead of purchasing the bass plugin alone ($54.99), consider the IK Multimedia Total Studio 4 MAX bundle ($164.99) for better value. Many are transitioning from Trilian to this plugin, though I ended up buying a physical bass instead.
- Scarbee Series: Decent bass libraries, but it’s better value to purchase them as part of Native Instruments Komplete during sales.
- IK Multimedia Amplitube 5 MAX v2: A must-have for guitarists. With both bass and guitar amp simulations, it’s a versatile tool priced at $109.99. Again, Total Studio 4 MAX is more cost-effective.
- NI Guitar Rig 7 Pro: Another top-tier effects processor for guitarists. However, for composers, it’s wiser to wait for a Komplete sale rather than buying this standalone ($103.4).
- Bias FX2: Widely used among guitarists. Currently 50% off at $149—definitely worth checking out.
- Brainworx Guitar & Bass Bundle: Includes 24 amp models, 7 pedals, and various effects, all for $69.3. With 34 plugins in total, it’s an excellent value for its price.
Unfortunately, Trilian, the staple of bass virtual instruments, doesn’t seem to be on sale either. Perhaps closer to the day?
4) Strings & Orchestration Tools
- Musio 1: Amazing value! With over 80 instruments (including the iconic Cinesamples library) at $163.9, this is a no-brainer. Updates are ongoing, and though a “2” version may be on the horizon, this is still an unbeatable deal.
- Spitfire Audio: A classic name in orchestration. Albion One is great for cinematic sounds, while Chamber Strings suits pop strings. BBCSO is excellent for classical vibes, and their Abbey Road and Studio series are worth exploring.
- EastWest Sounds: Known for their Hollywood Orchestra OPUS Edition and Symphonic Orchestra. Their Pop Brass and Voices series are also excellent. Their ComposerCloud subscription is discounted at $149/year for Black Friday.
- VSL (Vienna Symphonic Library): Produces ultra-realistic orchestral libraries with a steep price tag and a learning curve. Ideal for professionals dedicated to orchestration.
- Orchestral Tools: A long-established brand, now offering 50% off. Their Berlin series is highly recommended.
- Project SAM: Known for their Symphobia series, which is great for cinematic sound design. Symphobia 1 and 2 are staples, while 3 and 4 add more nuanced effects.
- Audiobro: Popular for Korean pop strings, particularly the LA Scoring Strings series. They’re now pushing their Modern Scoring series as well.
Closing Thoughts
I wanted to include samplers or sound effects for video work, but I’m less familiar with these areas. I primarily use Logic’s built-in sampler and NI Battery. Also, since I play guitar myself, I didn’t cover virtual electric or acoustic guitars here.
Hopefully, this guide helps you navigate this year’s deals!
Stay tuned for the final part, covering effects plugins and miscellaneous tools—coming soon. Time to recharge before tackling the rest!
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