Best sampler VST

Before we begin our discussion, let’s understand one key aspect. A VST plugin that works as a sampler is used to capture, process, cut and play audio fragments, including harmonies, melodies, drum parts and more. Samples, originally popular in hip-hop culture, are now widely used in a variety of musical styles, from EDM and pop to hip-hop and alternative. Samplers are one of the key tools for modern music producers.

1. Serato Sample

• Modern Pitch n’ Time algorithm for high-quality sound;
• Accurate identification and switching of musical keys;
• Easy and intuitive search for the required fragments.

Serato Sample is one of the leading DJ software on the market today. This product marked Serato’s first foray into the world of VST plug-ins, becoming one of the most progressive and forward-looking VST samplers in recent years. With its help, having an extensive set of tools for editing and managing samples, you can cut, trim and transpose them with maximum convenience. Of particular note is the high quality time stretching algorithm used in Serato Sample.

One of the program’s key strengths is the Pitch ‘n Time function, which is one of the most complex time stretching algorithms on the market. This feature allows you to synchronize the tempos of different tracks with minimal distortion.

The program’s sampling engine allows you to select up to 16 individual samples manually or automatically, providing ample creative possibilities. Built-in samples and pads further expand your horizons, allowing you to create complex and rich sound collages.

In conclusion, Serato Sample makes it easy to find samples, making your workflow much easier. Thanks to this, even with a library of several gigabytes, you will quickly find the necessary fragments.

2. Accusonus Rhythmiq

• High-quality rhythmic instrument;
• Integrated functional keyboard;
• Drum sampler with AI support.

Indeed, the Rhythmiq VST sampler is distinguished by its eccentricity, standing out as one of the most original plugins on the market. It presents a wide range of rhythmic possibilities in a simple and user-friendly interface.

Rhythmiq acts as your personal, but more obedient drummer. The main feature of Rhythmiq is its ability to analyze your rhythms and create unique variations from them.

Using artificial intelligence in music plugins may seem complicated, but in reality, the control is entirely in your hands. You can customize rhythms using accents, fills, and other techniques. In addition, a number of interesting effects are available, such as Arrange, Reverse and Silence.

Overall, Rhythmiq provides a unique and exciting way to work with drum samples, as well as a comprehensive set of features that are ideal for those looking for new creative approaches to music.

3. TAL Sampler

• High-quality analog synthesizer with an innovative sampling system;
• Extensive selection of ready-made settings;
• Analogue outputs section.

The TAL Sampler has earned its reputation as a true icon in the world of digital samplers. Over time, he gathered around him a large group of loyal fans. Unlike other samplers that strive for purity and perfect sound quality, TAL gives its sound a unique grain and bright character, reminiscent of the effects of vintage hardware samplers.

In fact, TAL Sampler is more than just a sampler. This is a full-fledged synthesizer that allows you to drag and drop audio files directly into the plugin interface and play them as virtual instruments.

Like other samplers on this list, TAL provides access to a variety of multi-mode filters and extensive audio manipulation capabilities. But what makes TAL special is its output section, which allows you to choose from a variety of high-quality digital-to-analog converters that recreate the signature elements of vintage analog devices.

Those who have worked with older hardware samplers are aware of their harsh and difficult sound due to the limitations of the time. It is often difficult for software developers to emulate these features, but TAL successfully recreates this analog effect.

For many music producers, TAL Sampler offers the closest experience possible to the warm and deep sounds of classic Emu or Akai samplers.

4. Reason Studios Mimic

• Reason software, compatible with various DAWs;
• Three unique sampling modes;
• Extensive library of built-in effects.

Reason Studios has introduced Mimic, included in the VST sampler package. What makes this plugin special is its versatility: it’s compatible with a variety of DAWs, making it easy to integrate into any music production process. In addition, in addition to the basic sampler functionality, Mimic offers many additional effects, utilities and synthesizers.

Mimic offers three different modes for working with samples. Firstly, it allows you to play melodies and chords thanks to a system based on pitch bending. You can choose from a variety of pitch shifting algorithms to keep samples in sync as their pitch changes.

Secondly, the sampler allows you to break audio material into many fragments to generate new musical ideas. The built-in gain control makes it easy to find transitions in loops and samples.

Finally, Mimic has the ability to trigger up to eight different samples, giving you the ability to customize trigger points, pitch, and more, expanding the user’s creative options.

5. Phalanx

• Rich collection of more than 3,000 factory sounds;
• 32 stereo slots for loading samples;
• Easy arpeggiator control.

Phalanx stands out from other VST samplers with its extensive capabilities for creating rhythms and processing percussive sounds. Its peculiarity is that it allows you to transform any source material, creating unique and unrecognizable sound textures.

This sampler is more reminiscent of FXpansion’s Geist or Native Instruments’ Battery than Native Instruments’ Kontakt. Aimed primarily at beatmakers, Phalanx is capable of performing a wide range of tasks.

When using Phalanx, you have access to 16 sample pads, which can be routed to 16 different outputs. Each pad can hold two samples, allowing you to work with 32 sounds simultaneously. Its polyphonic section supports up to 256 notes, eliminating the possibility of sample overlap.

Samples from the library can be carefully processed in a variety of ways, including filtering and pitch correction. Particularly attractive is the effect of sample rate and bit rate compression.

Despite its power, Phalanx remains intuitive to use. Thanks to the simple control circuit and advanced modulation matrix, you can easily implement any sound idea. The sampler also provides extensive sound design capabilities.

Overall, Phalanx is a high-quality drum sampler that can satisfy any user’s needs. It deserves the attention of both experienced drum sampler users and those who are just starting to get acquainted with this area.

6. Native Instruments Kontakt

• Advanced sampler with key visualization;
• A large number of additional sounds and instruments;
• Komplete Start with over 2,000 sounds.

Kontakt from Native Instruments is widely recognized as one of the leading software samplers, enjoying great popularity among both amateurs and professionals. Its appeal lies in its huge library of thousands of different tools that can be integrated into a user’s personal collection. Kontakt especially excels when working with multitimbral compositions and complex sampled arrangements.

It is worth considering that a free version of VST is available, although the paid version provides much more functionality.

What sets Kontakt Player 6 apart is its unconventional approach to sampling. The program’s interface is quite complex, but thanks to numerous routing and keyboard visualization settings, users can create their own VST instruments with a high degree of flexibility.

7. GlitchMachines Polygon 2 Sampler

• Four included granular sampler modules;
• Extensive LFO and modulation capabilities;
• 100 preset factory settings.

Polygon 2 stands out as a sound design-focused sampler, particularly useful for creators of experimental electronic music. It is significantly different from most VST samplers due to its unique and innovative approach that stimulates creative thinking.

At the heart of Polygon 2 are four sampler modules, providing the ability to play or loop samples, complemented by advanced granulation functions.

With three effects processors, two multimode filters, four modulation envelopes with variable curves, and eight LFOs, Polygon 2 gives you the power to bring your samples to life. Using the modulation matrix, global parameters can be controlled to create rhythmic and evolving sounds with high precision.

One of the great features of the Polygon Sampler VST is the sub-oscillator, which can be used to boost the low frequencies in loops or samples. The sub-oscillator adds a fifth voice, output as a sine or square wave, which expands the sonic capabilities of the instrument.

9. BeatSkilz Drop-X Sampler

• Three-layer samples with automatic sorting;
• Drag and drop structure;
• Auto pitch adjustment.

BeatSkillz Drop-X Sampler is probably one of the most impressive drag-and-drop VST samplers out there, with amazing power and flexibility. By simply dragging samples into the window, you can easily organize them by key. Add up to three layers of samples and automatically pitch-align them, greatly simplifying your workflow.

Create unique effects, from stutters to complex drum rhythms, all in one easy-to-use Drop-X Sampler interface.

The Drop-X Sampler pack features ten sound banks, including drums, percussion, synths, bass, vocals and more. Everything you need to create full-fledged compositions is always at hand. However, what really matters is your inspiration and creativity in using the samples provided.

We highly recommend checking out the BeatSkillz Drop-X Sampler, especially if you’re just starting out in the world of sampling and are looking for a simple yet effective way to start creating your music compositions.

10. Cataract GlitchMachines

• Segment multiplexer plugin;
• Dual sample scanner modules;
• Global parameter sequencer.

While it’s not exactly your average sampler, its built-in modulation sequencer and dual sample scanner make it a great choice for those looking for a unique sound design tool. In my opinion, Cataract is the best option for electronic music producers as it provides a wide range of textures and sounds that are ideal for sound design experimentation.

With morphing and generative modulation features, as well as sample scanning capabilities, you can create amazing audio patterns. Whether you’re planning on creating a full-on glitch festival or infusing your sounds with soft, gentle rhythms, Cataract is up to the task.

Each of the dual sample scanner modules contains two sample slots, two LFOs and a multi-mode filter. In addition, you’ll find a unique modulation matrix, five save states that can be activated via MIDI, and four randomizers for parameters. With multi-mode delay and three-band EQ capabilities, you’ll expand your sound shaping capabilities.

11. Image-Line DirectWave Sampler

• Multifunctional and powerful sampler with support for many formats;
• Fully programmable synthesis section;
• Ability to add randomization on layers.

Image-Line’s DirectWave Sampler certainly deserves its reputation as one of the most versatile samplers on the market today. No matter what audio sample formats you use – WAV, AKP, SF2, NKI, REX, GIG, EXS24 and others, DirectWave Sampler gives you endless possibilities.

This instrument has many useful features, including a fully customizable synthesis section, a modulation matrix, 128-voice polyphony, and the ability to create 16-layer audio overdubs. In addition to its standard loop slicing functionality, DirectWave Sampler can also act as its own synthesizer.

One of the key features of DirectWave Sampler is its ability to work with cyclic regions. It responds to speed-sensitive controls and allows you to create complex musical compositions from a variety of cyclic regions.

In terms of price, the DirectWave Sampler is a very good investment. Thanks to its compatibility with almost all audio formats, you will not have any restrictions when using it.

12. Big Fish Audio Momentum

• High quality single task engine;
• 18 cutting effects;
• Sampler-loader.

Big Fish’s Momentum is equipped with a wide range of powerful tools, making the process of creating sounds seamlessly simple and making it one of the best free VST samplers in the world. Even for a free VST sampler, the user interface is impressively well thought out, providing an abundance of intuitive controls and an easily accessible library.

This amazing virtual instrument allows you to put a new spin on your samples and loops. Momentum has a variety of amazing audio tools that give you complete control over your sound.

Momentum, being a free VST sampler, demonstrates amazing power. The user interface turns out to be convenient and intuitive.

Cutting effects and looping technology are state-of-the-art tools that allow you to create and record cutting-edge tracks with ease. Inside Momentum you will find 18 cutting effects, a delay, a reverse effect and a tone changer. The stretching algorithm is also quite high-quality, which allows you to change the speed of samples with a minimum number of artifacts.

Overall, Big Fish Momentum is a user-friendly and free VST sampler ideal for a variety of projects. It features a great single-tasking engine that will allow your samples to stand out in the mix.

13. Sitala Decomposer

• Cutting for drums;
• Editable starting and ending points of the sample;
• 16 customizable pads.

If you are looking for a simple and free VST sampler, then Decomposer’s Sitala is one of the best options. This amazing instrument will be a great addition to almost any music producer’s arsenal. Sitala provides a wide range of options for manipulating different aspects of your sample. Its user interface is reminiscent of Ableton’s famous Sampler, which may appeal to Ableton users looking for a third-party VST to use in other DAWs.

The algorithms used in Sitala are truly outstanding. We quickly noticed how well the automatic silence detection worked, ensuring that playback started on actual audio rather than background noise that is sometimes found at the beginning of samples.

Sitala provides four effects, ADSR controls, tone settings and more. Now there’s nothing easier than dragging your sample onto the interface and starting working with it.

14. InstantSampler

• Adjustable speed and parameters of attack and release;
• Recording and instant playback in real time;
• Variable playback speed.

InstantSampler is a sampler that is ideal for instantly recording and playing back audio in a variety of variations. The app’s interface is easy to use and provides clipping prevention, as well as the ability to customize attack and release parameters, as well as playback speed.

You can easily adjust the playback speed, play audio in loop or reverse mode, and adjust the fade duration and loop size.

One of the main advantages of InstantSampler is its excellent applicability for live performances. Musicians can record and play back audio in real time without having to deal with a complex interface.

15. Grooove BPB

• A powerful tool for sampling drum beats;
• Realistic controls for speed;
• Conveniently accessible modulation parameters.

Grooove BPB may be my favorite free drum sampler due to its expressiveness and ease of use. Moreover, control over modulation parameters is easily accessible, allowing you to create realistic and dynamic drum sounds.

On the application interface you will find five slots with simple controls and a sample loader with ADSR settings. Velocity controls provide solid control and let you personalize your drum samples. Grooove BPB is ideal for those who create organic music using drum samples.

16. Spectrasonics Omnisphere

Originally known as a synthesizer, Omnisphere has found its unique niche in the world of music sampling software thanks to its powerful sampling capabilities. With its vast library of sounds, it’s no wonder that many professional musicians and producers consider it one of the best software samplers.

• Contains over 14,000 included sounds, covering a wide range of music genres;
• Has powerful granular synthesis capabilities allowing for deep audio manipulation;
• Has powerful granular synthesis capabilities allowing for deep audio manipulation;
• Provides integration with hardware synthesizers for easier control.

An extensive sound library provides producers with a variety of sounds for virtually any musical task. Its hybrid nature, combining synthesis, sampling and even a competent drum sampler, provides endless possibilities for sound design.

So, while Omnisphere’s wide range of capabilities may seem daunting to newbies, and despite its outstanding capabilities that can be resource-intensive, for those looking for audio sampling software with pure synthesis benefits, Omnisphere remains a compelling and highly attractive choice.

17. Steinberg Halion

Steinberg’s HALion is a comprehensive tool in the world of sound sampling software. With its sophisticated source approach, it seamlessly integrates sampling and synthesis, backed by an extensive set of tools for sophisticated sound design.

• Hybrid system, which offers both traditional sampling and wavetable synthesis;
• Over 3400 instrumental sounds covering a wide genre range;
• Modular sound design environment with flexible routing;
• Built-in set of effects for customizing and polishing sounds.

The dual approach to sound creation provides unparalleled flexibility. With an extensive library of sounds and the ability to create unique tones and settings, as well as turn into a full-fledged drum machine, HALion is a top contender for the title of best software sampler.

Its wealth of functionality can be both an advantage and a disadvantage, which can be a little overwhelming for those new to advanced sampling.
For those looking for the best sampling plugin that doesn’t compromise on depth or variety, HALion is an excellent choice in the music sampling software category.

18. iZotope Iris

Steinberg’s HALion is a comprehensive tool in the world of sound sampling software. With its sophisticated source approach, it seamlessly integrates sampling and synthesis, backed by an extensive set of tools for sophisticated sound design.

• Hybrid system, which offers both traditional sampling and wavetable synthesis;
• Over 3400 instrumental sounds covering a wide genre range;
• Modular sound design environment with flexible routing;
• Built-in set of effects for customizing and polishing sounds.

The dual approach to sound creation provides unparalleled flexibility. With an extensive library of sounds and the ability to create unique tones and settings, as well as turn into a full-fledged drum machine, HALion is a top contender for the title of best software sampler.

Its wealth of functionality can be both an advantage and a disadvantage, which can be a little overwhelming for those new to advanced sampling.

For those looking for the best sampling plugin that doesn’t compromise on depth or variety, HALion is an excellent choice in the music sampling software category.