- it has to be something especially fun and unique OR perform some important utility function better than what I already am using.
- emulations are boring to me, with very few specific exceptions, most of which I already have anyway.
- it has to fit with the kind of music I make and the way I want to make it.
Absolute requirements:
- developer is not a bigot, an asshole, a spammer, or have a bad reputation.
- Windows CLAP, VST3 or VST2 (in order of preference)
- no AI slop / vibe coding
- price is reasonable for what the plugin does
- no subscriptions
- there must be a usable demo
When I demo it:
- the more hoops I have to jump through to get a demo, the less chance I'll bother. (Honestly I'd prefer not even giving up my email address. If I don't like your product enough to buy it, I also seriously don't want your marketing emails...)
- it has to be at least as good as I hoped
- the interface has to be inviting and well-designed. No tiny or unreadable text, but also not huge overall. Not something where I feel like I have to fight with it to get results. Not excessively obscured controls or function.
- has to be fun to use without presets. Either it's relatively simple, or patching something new from scratch should be a fun process of exploration.
- for instruments I definitely prefer MPE, and the ability to solely use pressure to control amplitude / brightness without envelopes getting in the way.
That said, the extra challenge to overcome in 2026 is that I pledged not to buy any software synths and a max of 3 effects (I've bought one so far, I have two possible options on my list but am holding off on them). This isn't a money thing, it's an intentionally changing my attitude toward gear thing. But I can say that it's been quite painless to uphold this pledge so far. It's more difficult with hardware
