Spitfire Audio releases LABS+, a new subscription-based collection of sound packs. The company has also updated the popular LABS plugin, which is still free but requires an internet connection.
If I’m honest, the news of a subscription-based version of LABS wasn’t exactly music to my ears. Spitfire Audio LABS is one of the best resources for excellent and often quirky free sounds, and I want that to stay the same.
I love Spitfire Audio libraries, but they can be very expensive, and LABS provides some counterbalance. But there’s some good news for existing and new users of the free LABS; all is not lost.
Firstly, here’s what LABS+ has to offer. Despite my cautious reaction to the change, I have no doubt that it will be an outstanding collection.
LABS+ already has over 40 new sound packs (in addition to the existing 59 free packs), totaling over 76GB of new sounds.
A subscription to LABS+ will give you access to all existing sounds, and Spitfire Audio will release new sound packs monthly. So, you’re paying for access to an ever-expanding library.
LABS+ offers a 14-day free trial, and if you sign up soon, you’ll get a special discount on subscription fees.
- Monthly – £8.99 for the first three months (usually £12.99)
- Yearly – £79 for your first twelve months (usually £99)
The reduced fees are only available until the end of July 2024. Remember, you can pick up Frostbite 2 or EQuivocate free at Plugin Boutique till the end of the month, too.
Now, back to the good news I mentioned earlier. LABS+ comes with a brand-new plugin that’s similar to Output’s Arcade.
You can now view, hear, and download sound packs inside the plugin, which is far more convenient. The new plugin is available for free LABS users; I think newcomers will love it, and existing users, like me, should enjoy the smooth workflow.
One caveat is that the plugin now requires an active internet connection to work, which users who keep their DAW computer offline will not appreciate.
If you don’t have LABS yet, don’t be put off by the paid version; there are still 59 awesome freebies; get it. If you fancy trying LABS+, I’m sure it will be awesome! (we just want everything for free)
Regarding the free libraries, I can’t say if Spitfire Audio will add to the current 59 or if everything new will be subscription-only, but I’ll update when I get confirmation.
Another cool thing that LABS+ offers is artist signature packs, such as Abe Laboriel Jr Drums (Paul McCartney). I would guess we might see packs from artists like Ólafur Arnalds in the future.
I’m not sure if there will be any discernable difference between the quality of the free and subscription sound packs because LABS’ freebies are already great.
After looking through the new releases, LABS+ may get you closer to products that wear the Spitfire Audio badge for core orchestral scoring instruments like BBC SO celli/Basses/Violas/Violins, but we’ll have to wait and see what comes next.
That reminds me that LABS Cello Moods is one of my favorite free sound packs, and I highly recommend it if you don’t have it already.
I’d like to hear what you think of the new model for LABS+ and the new plugin.
Check out the deal; LABS+ (14-day FREE trial – reduced subscription fees until the end of July)
More:
- Spitfire Audio Releases FREE Uilleann Pipes Sample Library
- Spitfire Audio Releases FREE LABS Classic Synths
Last Updated on July 20, 2024 by Tomislav Zlatic.
