MusicMan

No probs 🙂 IK have some weird upgrade ideas... Basically there are Upgrades, Crossgrades and Maxgrades. It's all explained here, although most people end up more confused by their explanations most of the time it seems! 🤣 https://www.ikmultimedia.com/faq/?id=1191 Most of the time I don't really rate their upgrades, or whichever flavour they want to call them. Rewarding loyalty is not generally their thing. I think I now have everything in Total Studio (apart from the Max of Tonex although I do have all their Signature Collections for it anyway and yet, a new customer with nothing will get into Total Studio for a very similar price. That's why I ignore their TS. Tonex is better than Amplitube in my opinion, so if you don't already have that, then that's what I'd recommend instead. I do actually quite like Amplitube though. Audio Plugin Deals have (had?) some offers that get you into the group buy. If you use the code STUDIOUPGRADE it should drop them down to the base price. With those you could get get Tonex plus Amplitube and a truckload of the signature or Amplitube expansions. Just make sure whatever you get isn't on the exclusions listed here: https://www.ikmultimedia.com/allingb2025/ (That page also spells out exactly what you could get for free, depending on what price the item is you buy to join the group buy) I'd probably go that route if I was doing it and didn't have them. If not Black Friday is around the corner.. there will always be deals and bundles, so you can't go too far wrong 🤣

The Max versions aren't included unfortunately. They would get more sales if they did, as a lot of people already have everything else, so without them, there's less point in some people buying in to the group buy. I can see why they might not want to do that and same with holding back their latest releases, but it would generate more sales as well, so it's double edged.for them.

The discount is a cart discount. So if you added Appassionata Strings to the cart, then it's over $150 so you're getting 30% off ($249.00), so that all looks right. IMO the current discount is only really good for EDU discount peeps as it's generally not supposed to stack, but sometimes does.

I have a feeling a number of these aren't entirely intentional, but when they realise, they don't hurry to fix them as it's good for sales.

That's a good point, I was buying BBC Symphony Orchestra Core which made the stack 30% off the EDU 50%. "Spend £150 or more and save 30% on your cart." Price for the strings was $87.15 and BBC Core was $157.15

I agree with a lot of that Carl and Scheps is famously known for using those cans. Like you said if you know whatever you have really well, then you potentially don't need it. The same could be said in some ways for room acoustics and as long as you know your room well you don't need them either, but I still think there's merit to having treatment. Speakers+Rooms can have challenges that are harder to solve though. As for room emulation, depending on how it's done, I personally don't mind some of them. I use Realphones and some of the rooms / devices help to highlight issues and balancing them you can find a happy medium when you're flicking between them. It's more likely the car test goes better afterwards. That solution isn't perfect either, but still another handy option to have for mobile, or when you're not in a properly treated room. I do tend to think some of these are just stepping stones to get you to more closely recognise what things should sound like. With the last few sets of headphones, they're more than capable, but I'm still OK with a few crutches here and there while I'm still learning!

This along with FabFilter Volcano 3 are really great for creative / experimental. I slept on Volcano 3 but so far it seems very nice.

If you're able to qualify for their EDU discount they currently have 50% off all products and that stacks with their 30% off cart discount that is just about to finish. I grabbed it the other day for even less than the sale price listed here and it's really nice!

Looking forward to checking the update out. This thing is a beast!

IK Releases ARC ON EAR The first standalone headphone correction and virtual monitoring system IK Multimedia introduces ARC ON•EAR. This revolutionary portable hardware device instantly corrects a headphone’s response and replicates the soundstage of professional studio monitors in an ideal studio setting without compromise. For the first time, users can now mix, master, and produce with total confidence anywhere. Headphone Correction/Virtual Monitoring System Removes the guesswork of mixing on headphones Recreates the experience of real monitors in a studio Virtually audition mixes on other top playback systems Standalone audiophile DAC and headphone amplifier Control software to customize and load up to 5 profiles Support for hundreds of popular headphone models Rechargeable battery for mobile mixing and listening USB-C and analog audio inputs support all audio sources Mix with Confidence, Not Guesswork Mixing with headphones is challenging. Even “reference” headphones color the sound, and exaggerated stereo width makes spatial judgment nearly impossible. ARC ON•EAR solves both problems — providing a neutral frequency response and a natural stereo image — so users can trust what they hear every time. A Reliable Reference Every pair of headphones has its own sonic fingerprint. ARC ON•EAR uses precision calibration profiles, measured with state-of-the-art reference rigs, to ensure accurate, transparent, and reliable sound. With support for hundreds of popular headphone models, users will experience the mix exactly as it should sound — clear, balanced, and true to life. Real Studio Monitors Unlike plug-ins or impulse-based “virtual rooms,” ARC ON•EAR utilizes advanced physical modeling to recreate the behavior of real studio monitors in an ideal acoustic space. There are no artificial reverbs or timbral coloration, just the natural depth, width, and clarity of a real control room — right in the user’s headphones. Accuracy Begins with the Amplifier The behavior of a headphone amplifier directly influences what is heard. Even high-end audio interfaces and mixers can modify a headphone’s frequency response — sometimes subtly, sometimes significantly — depending on the model and its output impedance. ARC ON•EAR eliminates this variable. All calibration profiles are created using the exact same amplifier circuit found in the product, ensuring precise, reliable, and repeatable correction across all headphones and listening sessions. Uncompromising Audio Quality Powered by a 32-bit ESS SABRE® converter, a high-damping-factor, ultra-low-distortion power amplifier, and a digitally controlled analog volume stage, ARC ON·EAR delivers a truly audiophile-grade listening experience — with no compromises. Virtual Monitoring that Goes Beyond Instantly test mixes on a wide range of playback systems. With over 20 virtual studio monitors and more than 15 multimedia playback systems available at release, ARC ON•EAR enables users to precisely understand how a mix translates without ever taking off their headphones. Effortless Control The included and dedicated ARC ON•EAR control software lets users easily set up and fine-tune their listening experience. Once configured, the device operates completely standalone for up to 4 hours on a charge. Quick and easy device setup Fine-tune tonal balance to taste Save and load up to 5 presets Customizable Function button Manage firmware/software updates The ARC of Confidence With continuous firmware updates, an expanding headphone database, and a growing collection of virtual monitors, ARC ON•EAR is a future-proof investment in mixing and enjoying sound. Whether producing on the go, mixing at night, or traveling the world, ARC ON•EAR offers the accuracy and confidence of a professional studio — everywhere. Pricing and Availability ARC ON·EAR has now started shipping and will be fully available in all regions by mid-November. IK Multimedia online store: www.ikmultimedia.com/shop/arconear IK authorized dealers worldwide: www.ikmultimedia.com/dealers ARC ON•EAR $/€249.99* intro price (reg. $/€299.99) – Includes ARC ON•EAR processor, carrying pouch, USB-C cable, stereo TRS cable (3.5 mm to 3.5 mm thread-on), TRS adapter (3.5 mm to 6.3 mm thread-on), ARC ON•EAR control software. https://www.ikmultimedia.com/news/?id=IKReleasesArcOnEar

IK Releases ARC ON•EAR The first standalone headphone correction and virtual monitoring system IK Multimedia introduces ARC ON•EAR. This revolutionary portable hardware device instantly corrects a headphone’s response and replicates the soundstage of professional studio monitors in an ideal studio setting without compromise. For the first time, users can now mix, master, and produce with total confidence anywhere. Headphone Correction/Virtual Monitoring System Removes the guesswork of mixing on headphones Recreates the experience of real monitors in a studio Virtually audition mixes on other top playback systems Standalone audiophile DAC and headphone amplifier Control software to customize and load up to 5 profiles Support for hundreds of popular headphone models Rechargeable battery for mobile mixing and listening USB-C and analog audio inputs support all audio sources Mix with Confidence, Not Guesswork Mixing with headphones is challenging. Even “reference” headphones color the sound, and exaggerated stereo width makes spatial judgment nearly impossible. ARC ON•EAR solves both problems — providing a neutral frequency response and a natural stereo image — so users can trust what they hear every time. A Reliable Reference Every pair of headphones has its own sonic fingerprint. ARC ON•EAR uses precision calibration profiles, measured with state-of-the-art reference rigs, to ensure accurate, transparent, and reliable sound. With support for hundreds of popular headphone models, users will experience the mix exactly as it should sound — clear, balanced, and true to life. Real Studio Monitors Unlike plug-ins or impulse-based “virtual rooms,” ARC ON•EAR utilizes advanced physical modeling to recreate the behavior of real studio monitors in an ideal acoustic space. There are no artificial reverbs or timbral coloration, just the natural depth, width, and clarity of a real control room — right in the user’s headphones. Accuracy Begins with the Amplifier The behavior of a headphone amplifier directly influences what is heard. Even high-end audio interfaces and mixers can modify a headphone’s frequency response — sometimes subtly, sometimes significantly — depending on the model and its output impedance. ARC ON•EAR eliminates this variable. All calibration profiles are created using the exact same amplifier circuit found in the product, ensuring precise, reliable, and repeatable correction across all headphones and listening sessions. Uncompromising Audio Quality Powered by a 32-bit ESS SABRE® converter, a high-damping-factor, ultra-low-distortion power amplifier, and a digitally controlled analog volume stage, ARC ON·EAR delivers a truly audiophile-grade listening experience — with no compromises. Virtual Monitoring that Goes Beyond Instantly test mixes on a wide range of playback systems. With over 20 virtual studio monitors and more than 15 multimedia playback systems available at release, ARC ON•EAR enables users to precisely understand how a mix translates without ever taking off their headphones. Effortless Control The included and dedicated ARC ON•EAR control software lets users easily set up and fine-tune their listening experience. Once configured, the device operates completely standalone for up to 4 hours on a charge. Quick and easy device setup Fine-tune tonal balance to taste Save and load up to 5 presets Customizable Function button Manage firmware/software updates The ARC of Confidence With continuous firmware updates, an expanding headphone database, and a growing collection of virtual monitors, ARC ON•EAR is a future-proof investment in mixing and enjoying sound. Whether producing on the go, mixing at night, or traveling the world, ARC ON•EAR offers the accuracy and confidence of a professional studio — everywhere. Pricing and Availability ARC ON·EAR has now started shipping and will be fully available in all regions by mid-November. IK Multimedia online store: www.ikmultimedia.com/shop/arconear IK authorized dealers worldwide: www.ikmultimedia.com/dealers ARC ON•EAR $/€249.99* intro price (reg. $/€299.99) – Includes ARC ON•EAR processor, carrying pouch, USB-C cable, stereo TRS cable (3.5 mm to 3.5 mm thread-on), TRS adapter (3.5 mm to 6.3 mm thread-on), ARC ON•EAR control software. *Pricing excludes taxes. For more information about ARC ON•EAR or to see it in action, please visit: www.ikmultimedia.com/arconear www.ikmultimedia.com/arconear/video STORE & SERVICE SHOP INFO & FAQ USER AREA FIND A DEALER available payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Amex JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER https://www.ikmultimedia.com/news/?id=IKReleasesArcOnEar

Pretty crazy to put it into perspective that the same price bought me all of the following on sale which covers a LOT of the same and different territory! Technically that's not entirely true.. I still had change left over... almost enough to pay for what Kilohearts Phase Plant semi-modular softsynth cost me too.. Haha.. EastWest Hollywood Orchestra Opus Edition Includes over 130GB of brand new recordings (total size is now 944GB) UVI Falcon (Also when you buy you get a $100 | 100€ voucher to buy even more UVI stuff!) Creative Hybrid Instrument Sampling and synthesis for every sound design need 24 oscillators, 100+ effects, deep modulation, and event processors 1,600+ handcrafted, ready-to-play presets Steinberg Absolute 6 VST Instrument Collection (Includes Halion and "More than 130 GB of instruments and 7,500 inspiring presets") Sampler & Workstation HALion 7 (The core sample, synth, and sound creation system) Synthesizer and Electronic Music FM Lab (New powerful and versatile FM synthesizer) Retrologue 2 (Classic vintage analog synth) Padshop 2 (Unique granular and spectral synthesizer) Skylab (Sample library and HALion synth combination) Anima (Cutting-edge synth sounds with powerful arpeggiator) Triebwerk (Club sounds, synths, and hypnotic beats) Trium (Clean analog synthesizer) Voltage (Inspired by famous analog synthesizers) Auron (Granular synthesis soundscapes) HALiotron (Sounds of 1960s and '70s rock/pop) Sounds of Soul (Retrologue expansion with four decades of synth sounds) Polarities (Electronic and acoustic sounds expansion) Granular Guitars (Acoustic and electric guitar samples using granular synthesis) Hypnotic Dance (400 synth-heavy dance sounds) Drums & Percussion Groove Agent 5 (Acoustic and electronic drums, grooves, and live sampling) Backbone (Intuitive drum designer and sound resynthesizer) World Percussion (Percussion from Africa, Asia, Europe, and more) B-Box (Step sequencer for beats and drum tracks) Future Past Perfect (Groove Agent Expansion for New York House, Future House, and Techno) Prime Cuts (Groove Agent Expansion for Hip Hop rhythm sounds) Rock Essentials (Groove Agent Expansion for hard-hitting rock beats) Pianos & Keys The Grand 3 (Five meticulously sampled grand pianos from Yamaha, Steinway, and Bösendorfer) The Eagle (Grand piano ideally suited to modern pop and rock) The Raven (Grand piano delivering a rich, harmonic sound) Amped Elektra (Smooth electric piano sound) Model C (Tonewheel organ emulation) Cinematic & Orchestra Symphonic Orchestra (Complete symphony orchestra) Studio Strings (Playable string ensemble sample library) Dark Planet (Creative tool for cinematic scores and suspense music) World Instruments (Large array of music from different cultures) Olympus Choir Micro (Lightweight, user-friendly choir instrument) Hot Brass (Multi-sampled brass library) Guitars & Bass Tales (New intimate sound of a handcrafted guitar) Electric Bass (Three legendary basses combined in one realistic instrument) (Note: there was too much in the Absolute Collection so I asked AI to summarize, but looks pretty correct.. )

Same husker!

50% off currently for EDU and stacks with the cart discounts on most products (with some exceptions)

Save up to 30% Offer ends Friday October 17th. Spend £50 or more and save 10% on your cart. Send £100 or more and save 20% on your cart. Spend £150 or more and save 30% on your cart. Excludes releases within the last 90 days and libraries available on Rent to Own. https://www.spitfireaudio.com/en-au/pages/offers EDU peeps might want to take a look

I'm pretty sure it's already been confirmed as ineligible for getting the freebies . They could for sure work on making.their conditions a bit more clear though!

I'd still say it's worth it at $39 even for the convenience alone, but agreed that crazy sale was a great one!

I thought the same thing when I saw this deal! I'd had my eye on VSS-2 but it was almost always excluded. I'd been thinking it would likely get to $12.50 in one of those 2 for $25 deals, but even with buying one duplicate plugin I already owned, this was way better and it also got me another new one on top, for less money than those previous deals. I wasn't sure we'd see deals stack like that again after the takeover.

Agreed 🙂 For me it mainly adds the EQ which I didn't have (and is really expensive with no big sales as it's direct only) , but also nice convenience of having all the other components which are high quality in the one plugin. It's a pretty awesome Frankenstein type of channel strip!

Safari Pedals: Rhino Reverb - A Vintage HiFi Reverb amp, with a wild twist (Free - Time Limited Offer) Rhino Reverb - A Vintage HiFi Reverb amp, with a wild twist Regular price$49.00 (Free - Time Limited Offer) Code: SanjaySafariMadnessRhino https://safaripedals.com/products/rhino-reverb-vintage-hifi-reverb-amp-with-a-wild-twist-1 Details:

Plugin Alliance: Vertigo VSS-2 $10, Tomo Audiolabs LISA $10, Bettermaker Bus Compressor $10 Get four of the most coveted analog-modeled plugin tools in the industry for just $10.00 each: From the high-end analog mastering EQ of the Tomo Audiolabs LISA, to the lush width of the Vertigo VSS-2, the analog grit of the elysia karacter, and the unmistakable punch of Bettermaker Bus Compressor — this is your moment to elevate every mix and master. If you have a $25 Loyalty voucher you can combine these. If you only want two, you can just add something like Lindell Audio 7X-500 for $15 and you essentially get say Vertigo VSS-2 and LISA for $5 dollars each, total cost $10 after the $25 voucher. On sale this weekend only, until Oct 13, 23:59 PST. https://www.plugin-alliance.com/en/products.html#weekend-deal

That's really shady on their part then! Actually illegal in many parts of the world.

XLN Audio: RC-20 $39 https://www.pluginboutique.com/product/2-Effects/44-Saturation/3016-RC-20-Retro-Color

I just found an order complete one. Looks like they're the only ones that don't. Technically they're transactional emails, as opposed to marketing emails so I guess they might be able to get away with it.

Are you sure? I just checked a bunch of emails from them and all mine have an unsubscribe. Very bad if they don't.