Why I don't buy sample libraries anymore?

This probably sounds excessive and even hypocritical because it’s not entirely true. Still, I can say that things have changed for me dramatically in that respect if we look at the not-so-distant past. I can now withstand most temptations quite easily, even when it comes to extra discounts that are rather abundant lately. Some five years ago, I would have eagerly and impatiently awaited a sale by my favorite developers of virtual instruments and sample libraries. Now I can mostly count new acquisitions on my fingers.

What has happened? Is it about cost, unjustifiable investments, defying consumerism, or simply being fed up? Probably all above to some degree. So let’s start.

I already wrote about my thoughts on the relatively high price of virtual instruments and sample libraries. Even though I understand that their development is frequently a complex and expensive task, this doesn’t make your decision about buying them or not any less simple. Especially if you, like me, are struggling to make ends meet almost exclusively through creative work. In such a case, you simply have to think about priorities. For example, you can often purchase a quality tangible item that will serve you well for many years for the price of an average software Not to mention the regular expenses.

The overabundance of choices is another reason. My sound library may be somewhat modest in size in comparing to those that many pros and well-standing amateurs often have. Still, I have gathered a lot of this stuff over the years. While having a wide choice on your hands is certainly good, you shouldn't be excessive. I often struggle when trying to decide what to use in the production of a track I’m currently working on. Sometimes, this process (ironically) takes much longer than the composing process itself, particularly if I’m in a creative mood or driven by inspiration. I have recently read that many creatives actively use just a fraction of the gear they have. Still, they keep buying new stuff over and over again.

There is also a question of justifiable investment. Despite what the Internet tells you, turning your creative work into a steady source of income is much easier said than done. Therefore you should always ask yourself: “Is it worth it?”, before actually purchasing something. Regardless of the enthusiasm you might feel while watching various online presentations. Furthermore, there is so much quality yet free software around. If things were like that some ten ago when I started building my collection of commercial titles., I probably wouldn’t buy at least 50% of what I have. Of course, some will claim that you can't expect “professional” results if you rely upon free solutions. If you ask me, this is only partially true. Yes, you will still need to reach inside your pocket for certain categories of sounds. But people were creating beautiful and timeless music using much more modest tech resources than those you can get for free these days.

Also, you can’t ignore that feeling of regret and disappointment. I must say that I’m now truly sorry for buying certain software titles. Before each purchase, I always try to “do my homework”, by carefully studying the available materials. Despite this, you just can’t know if something will suit your preferences and needs. If people from the same branch do not closely surround you, you probably won’t have many chances to try out something firsthand. Instead, you’re forced to make a “leap of faith”. There is also a question of selling software you don’t need or want. Although some companies offer the option of license transfer to another person, this is often an exception rather than a rule.

Lastly, there is a matter of “originality”. Because of their power and availability, most creatives use virtual rather than real instruments and musicians. But those who also use the traditional approach will always have a certain edge. While this is often impractical and unfeasible for many of us, you should reach for classic methods whenever possible.

Anyway, these are all just tools. Fresh inspiration is to be found in art, creativity, knowledge, and skills rather than in new purchases.