Are virtual instruments and sample libraries too expensive?

In the interested circles on the Internet, there are countless discussions about the sometimes high price of virtual instruments and sample libraries and whether are they "worth it". Participating in these are the users, professionals, and amateurs alike, as well as the developers. These debates are frequently rather tiresome and occasionally even hilarious. With all arguments on the table, there is never a true "winner" nor the answer to that ultimate question.

The fact often taken for granted is that the development of quality virtual instruments takes significant resources, time, knowledge, and skills. For a start, you need experienced musicians who will perform any potential tone on a given instrument, using every technique and style of playing. Furthermore, the recorded instruments themselves are often pedigreed ones, in terms of their price, quality, or availability. Speaking of recording, top-quality equipment is often employed during the production of sample libraries. This includes microphones, mixers, sound processors, and recording devices. Here you even encounter a legacy from the past, such as tape recorders or gear based on electronic valves. And do not forget the space itself. The material for many virtual instruments was recorded in celebrated studios worldwide. Of course, all these factors potentially raise the price of the final product, especially when sampling a larger ensemble or even a whole orchestra.

The final phase of production regarding virtual instruments is consolidation in a digital form, which includes programming, scripting, and GUI development.

The development of virtual instruments, however, is not reserved only for big outfits out there. Thanks to the availability of pro-grade recording equipment, there are a lot of smaller developers that offer quality products at affordable prices. Their works can sometimes challenge even those made by far bigger names. There is also a freeware scene that is stronger than ever before. For a majority of "everyday sounds" you don't have to spend a dime; you can easily find a quality yet free alternative.

This is why I'm often annoyed by the elitism and snobbism amongst the users of virtual instruments and sample libraries. Some of those are looking upon affordable and free solutions with a smirk, saying that you cannot possibly expect "serious results" by using these. Professionals claim that they need the very best and newest titles to "make it", while the well-standing amateurs are bragging about their new toys, mostly driven by the "hamster syndrome" (GAS) or the "fear of missing out" (FOMO). Even with hefty discounts, these are still considerable expenses, particularly if you are trying to keep up with the current trends.

Speaking of which, a logical question is do virtual instruments become obsolete with time. It depends. Although technology is never at a standstill, especially when it comes to software, this is a unique area in many ways. I believe that quality recorded material used in well-produced sample libraries can withstand the test of time, although the newer product is often superior regarding its programming and playability.

I think it's better to talk about justifiable investments rather than expensiveness of virtual instruments. If you are lucky and can charge enough for your creative work, investing in expensive software makes sense within reason. However, considering the rather slim chances of turning your music into something profitable, reaching for affordable or free music software is nothing to be ashamed of. Quite the contrary. Celebrated artists were creating beautiful music using far inferior technical solutions than the ones you can get today, often even for free. In other words, it is all about music and creativity rather than tools. At least, this is how it should be.