Why I enjoy working with free virtual instruments?
Despite financial difficulties and challenges, over the years I managed to build a solid collection of commercial software for music production. My main assets in this were patience and careful planning. I never succumbed to trends, popular opinion, let alone elitism. My only motive when buying music gear was always the search for motivation and inspiration. Although I’m yet to adequately capitalize on my creative work, I mostly do not regret the money I invested in the process. But you eventually need to get down to firm ground and face some real circumstances.
With physical gear you don’t have this option, but with software, there is always a possibility of free alternative. This is one of the true benefits of otherwise merciless times we’re living in. Once a weak attempt of imitating expensive and sought for solutions, free software is nowadays nothing to laugh at. There are countless examples where long-time users of hailed and overpriced options are fully switching to quality freeware. This often demands a certain degree of adjustment and additional learning, but in most cases, it’s well worth it.
When it comes to music production, you should certainly invest in some tools. This includes your DAW and some basic plugins and virtual instruments. But this don’t necessarily means you need to spend a boatload of money. For example, a popular DAW called REAPER is much more affordable than its competition, yet at least as much powerful (often even much more).
Personally, I spent the most on my sound library. Namely, the Komplete package, 3rd party Kontakt libraries and some other virtual instruments. However, there is a large scene of free titles that can potentially substitute nearly all categories of sounds you might imagine. Of course, in certain cases, you still need to reach in your pocket. Once upon a time, free virtual instruments and sound libraries were just another promotion for commercial developers. They were sometimes a fun pastime, but often not much more. These days, things are different and there are many free titles that can stand next to commercial ones when it comes to quality and features.
Free sound libraries often fall into two categories. Behind some, there is an otherwise commercial developer, while others were produced by a community of enthusiasts. The quality of first ones is perhaps best shown in celebrated free series such as LABS, Blueprint, Vaults, Roots, Origins, etc. The golden example of the second ones is still a project called Pianobook, that needs no special introduction. Even today, after many changes, it remains a true treasure trove for those who know.
Although my main motive for turning toward free titles is mostly caused by finance, I have to admit enjoying working with these for some other reasons as well. For a start, I want to prove myself and to others that all these are just tools and that with a creative mindset, you can do without expensive software. Especially with the fact that this is a field full of snobbery and elitism. Though modern free titles don’t fall back behind the paid ones when it comes to sound quality, there are still often a bit limited in features. But instead of limiting your workflow, this can actually entice creativity and music intuition.
As a true purveyor of freeware, I must sadly say this scene has it’s ups and downs as well as long dry periods. This is perhaps a bit relative, considering your particular taste and needs, but still noticeable. Currently, I have nearly everything needed for my musical work, but I’m still delighted when I come across a promising free virtual instrument or a sound library. At the same time, you should remain moderate. Too many choices and possibilities are often a creative hindrance rather than otherwise. In any case, you should stop dreaming about something new all the time and always know how to return to everything you already have.