Arturia has made a notable move in the world of music production software by releasing a free-to-use version of its renowned Analog Lab software, aptly named Analog Lab Play. This streamlined software suite presents users with 100 presets carefully selected from the original Analog Lab and high-quality VSTs such as the well-regarded Pigments soft synth. For newcomers, Arturia has also introduced the “Play View,” a simplified interface designed to enhance the user experience by providing streamlined visual cues and expediting preset selection. Additionally, it enables users to conveniently purchase standalone instruments.
While the 100 presets available in Analog Lab Play are a far cry from the extensive library of over 2,000 found in the original software, the allure of a free offering is undeniable. This release serves as an excellent opportunity to explore Arturia’s sound engines, conveniently coinciding with the potential Black Friday discounts that might be on the horizon.
In tandem with the introduction of Analog Lab Play, Arturia has also given a fresh update to the paid Analog Lab software, now dubbed “Analog Lab Pro.” This premium version retains access to thousands of presets sourced from the esteemed Arturia V Collection, Pigments, and related soft synths. Priced at $200, Analog Lab Pro remains largely unchanged in terms of functionality but will benefit from the same UI refresh featured in Analog Lab Play. For users who prefer fine-tuning presets rather than crafting sounds from scratch, Analog Lab Pro continues to be the go-to software suite.
This isn’t Arturia’s first foray into offering free versions of its software. Analog Lab Intro, a product similar to Play, was previously available as a complimentary download with the purchase of select MIDI controllers and occasionally as a standalone software suite. Arturia also periodically releases free instruments and effects, exemplified by the 2021 release of a lo-fi tape plugin based on its Mellotron emulation.
Music enthusiasts can already download Analog Lab Play, while the UI refresh for Analog Lab Pro is scheduled for a later release. In recent months, Arturia has been actively expanding its product lineup with offerings like an effect inspired by the iconic Leslie rotary speaker and an emulation of the acid house classic Roland TB-303, demonstrating the company’s commitment to innovation in music production.
