AudioThing
ActiveOverview
AudioThing is an audio software company specializing in audio plugins for digital audio workstations and mobile platforms. The company develops a range of professional-grade audio processing plugins including synthesizers, effects, and utility tools. AudioThing plugins are available in multiple formats (VST2, VST3, AU, AAX, CLAP) for desktop platforms and as AUv3 and standalone apps on iOS, serving music producers, sound designers, and audio engineers.
Key Features
- Multi-format plugin support - Plugins available as VST2, VST3, AU, AAX, and CLAP formats for maximum DAW compatibility
- Cross-platform availability - Native support for macOS (including Apple Silicon), Windows, and Linux with consistent functionality
- iOS integration - Most products available on iOS as AUv3 plugins and standalone apps through the App Store
- Offline activation - License activation via offline license files without requiring internet connection or iLok
- Spectral sound design - Plugins like Octaves enable unique spectral audio processing and frequency-based effects
- Drum synthesis - Specialized drum synthesizer plugins like Hats for creating hi-hat and cymbal sounds
- Delay and reverb effects - Acoustic delay and reverb plugins for spatial audio processing
- Modular channel strips - Comprehensive channel processing tools for mixing and mastering workflows
Pricing
| Plan | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Individual Plugins | Varies by plugin | One-time purchase per plugin with offline activation and cross-platform access |
| Bundle packages | Varies | Multiple plugins at discounted rates compared to individual purchases |
Platforms & Requirements
AudioThing plugins run on macOS (10.5+), Windows, and Linux as VST/AU/AAX/CLAP plugins within compatible DAWs. All plugins are natively compatible with Apple Silicon Macs (M-series chips) as Universal 2 Binaries. iOS versions are available as AUv3 plugins and standalone apps. Desktop plugins do not require internet connectivity for activation after initial license setup.
Integrations & Ecosystem
- VST2 plugin format
- VST3 plugin format
- AU (Audio Units) format
- AAX format
- CLAP format
- AUv3 (iOS)
- Standalone applications
- License file import/export
Alternatives
| App | Difference |
|---|---|
| iZotope | Larger plugin ecosystem with AI-powered audio processing and subscription-based pricing model |
| Waves | Extensive plugin library with cloud-based license management and frequent promotional pricing |
| Native Instruments | Integrated ecosystem combining plugins, hardware controllers, and sample libraries with subscription options |
| FabFilter | Specialized in high-end mixing and mastering plugins with advanced visual interfaces |
| Soundtoys | Creative effects-focused plugins with emphasis on sound design and unique sonic character |
Reputation
AudioThing is recognized as a reliable developer of specialized audio plugins with strong technical implementation across multiple platforms. The company is praised for supporting open plugin standards (CLAP) and providing flexible offline activation without proprietary copy protection. Users appreciate the cross-platform consistency and iOS availability. The plugin catalog is considered niche but well-executed, though the company maintains a lower profile compared to larger plugin developers. Support documentation is available but the company operates with a smaller team than major competitors.