The digital audio workstation (DAW) landscape in the UK offers musicians and producers a wealth of tools to create professional music. Among these, the EXS24 sampler—now known simply as Sampler in modern versions of Logic Pro X—has been a staple for many. For those seeking to expand their sonic palette without initial investment, a variety of free EXS24 instrument libraries are available. These resources provide high-quality, sampled sounds that can replace or enhance the default instruments included with a DAW. This article details several notable free EXS24 piano sample libraries and instruments, focusing on their features, compatibility, and acquisition methods, based on information from official sources and verified community projects.
Understanding the EXS24 and Sampler Ecosystem
The EXS24 is a software sampler that was integrated into Apple’s Logic Pro for many years. With the release of Logic Pro X 10.5 and later, the EXS24 was upgraded and renamed to ‘Sampler’. Despite the name change, the new Sampler retains full compatibility with existing EXS24 instruments (.exs files). This means that libraries designed for the older EXS24 continue to function seamlessly within the updated software. For producers using other Digital Audio Workstations, such as Ableton Live or Studio One, many of these libraries are also accessible, as these platforms can import Kontakt and EXS24 formats.
The primary advantage of using free sample libraries is the ability to access professionally recorded and deeply sampled instruments at no cost. These libraries often feature multiple velocity layers, microphone positions, and articulations, providing a level of realism and expressiveness that surpasses basic, pre-installed sounds. For UK-based musicians working from home studios, this offers a cost-effective pathway to professional-sounding productions.
Key Free Piano Sample Libraries for EXS24
Among the most sought-after free instruments are piano libraries, which form the foundation of countless musical genres. The following sections detail specific, verified free offerings available to UK producers.
LivingRoom Upright Piano Free Edition
One of the most comprehensive free piano libraries available is the LivingRoom Upright Piano Free Edition, produced by KeyPleezer. This library is designed specifically to provide musicians and songwriters with a more organic and vintage upright piano sound, ideal for replacing generic DAW sounds or adding character to tracks.
Source and Origin: The free edition is derived from a smaller selection of samples from the complete LivingRoom Upright Piano library. It is a deep-sampled, multi-format virtual instrument available for both Kontakt and EXS24 formats. The samples were sourced from the complete edition, ensuring an authentic and rich audio experience.
Features and Specifications: - Microphone Position: Features a close microphone position for an intimate sound. - Sample Depth: Offers 6 unique samples per key. - Velocity Layers: Includes 3 velocity response sample layers (Piano, Mezzo, and Forte) for both pedal-off and pedal-on states, allowing for dynamic control. - Sample Count: Contains 258 samples recorded at 24-bit / 44.1kHz quality. - Dynamic Control: Includes features for dynamic range control and pre-track volume adjustment. - Compatibility: Supports multiple formats including Kontakt, EXS24, and others. It is compatible with both Mac and PC systems. - DAW Integration: The library includes preset patches specifically for Apple Logic Pro X, GarageBand, and MainStage applications. A Logic Pro X and GarageBand view is provided for easy integration.
Acquisition Process: To obtain the LivingRoom Upright Piano Free Edition, users must visit the official KeyPleezer website. The download process requires users to confirm their email address, after which they will receive the download links. The source material indicates that the send frequency is low and spam is not sent. The current version available is v1.0.
Piano in 162 for Logic Pro X
Another notable free resource is the Piano in 162 library, which features a Steinway Model B grand piano. While the original sample library was created for Native Instruments Kontakt, a community-developed Logic Pro X patch is available, making it accessible to EXS24 and Sampler users.
Source and Origin: The Piano in 162 sample library was created by Simon Dalzell and made available free of charge. However, redistribution of the sample content is not permitted. The Logic Pro X patches were created manually by a community member (lukas.zapletalovi.com/Piano162Logic) from scratch, note by note, and are distributed separately from the sample content. The samples themselves must be downloaded in the SFZ version from the original creator.
Features and Specifications: - Instrument: A Steinway Model B grand piano, sampled in high quality at 96kHz. - Microphone Configurations: Features two mic configurations: close and ambient microphones. The instrument is a two-channel instrument with separate outputs for main, close, and ambient mics, allowing for mixing flexibility within the Logic mixer. - Pedal Articulations: Samples were recorded both without and with the sustain pedal to capture sympathetic resonance. - Processing: The creator of the Logic patches manually audited and adjusted the start and end of each sample, modified volume, and fixed issues to ensure the best possible experience. The patches were created in Logic Pro X 10.6 and may not be compatible with older versions of Logic or the EXS24. - Compatibility: The patches are designed for Logic Pro X and its built-in Sampler (EXS24).
Acquisition Process: To use this library, users must first download the Piano in 162 sample content (the SFZ version) from the original creator's site. The Logic patches can then be downloaded from the community repository. The patches are provided as an .exs file, which must be placed in the correct folder within the user’s system (typically [User]>Music>Audio Music Apps>Sampler Instruments). Once installed, the instrument can be selected within the Logic Sampler plugin.
Other Free EXS24 Instruments
Beyond piano libraries, a variety of other free EXS24 instruments are available, covering synthesizers, drums, and unique sound effects. These instruments can significantly expand a producer’s sound palette.
Indossa Synths on Tape
This bundle offers 23 unique synth instruments captured on tape, providing a warm, crunchy sound ideal for Lo-Fi and vintage music production. Each note is captured individually without loops, contributing to a realistic playing experience. The synths range from melodic to bass sounds. The bundle is compatible with Logic Pro X, Ableton, and Studio One. While high-quality, the dense sounds may require EQ and compression to mix effectively.
Patronus Station, Lorenzo’s Drums, Box Harp, and Discord Choir
These are additional free EXS24 instruments listed as part of a curated selection of the best available freebies. While the source material provides their names, specific details about their content, features, or acquisition are not detailed in the provided chunks. They are noted as tools that can help expand a producer's sound within their DAW.
Practical Guidance for Using Free EXS24 Instruments
For UK producers looking to integrate these free instruments into their workflow, a general process can be followed, as outlined in available guides.
Step-by-Step Integration:
1. Download: Head to a website that hosts EXS24 instruments, such as Pianobook or the official sites mentioned, and download the desired instrument file (typically a .exs file or a compressed archive containing it).
2. Extract: Use file compression software like 7-Zip (for Windows) or The Unarchiver (for Mac) to extract the .exs file from the downloaded folder.
3. Install: Move the extracted .exs file to the designated Sampler Instruments folder on your computer. For Mac users, this is typically located at [User]>Music>Audio Music Apps>Sampler Instruments.
4. Open in Logic: Launch Logic Pro X and create a new software instrument track. Open the Sampler plugin on this track.
5. Select the Instrument: Within the Sampler interface, open the instrument selection menu (often accessed by clicking a button above the mixing fader) and choose your newly installed instrument from the dropdown list.
6. Play: The instrument is now ready to be played and recorded within your project.
Considerations for UK Musicians
When sourcing free samples, it is crucial to consider the licensing and intended use. Some free libraries, particularly those from community projects or sample swaps, may have restrictions on commercial use. For instance, the Piano in 162 library, while free, does not allow redistribution of its sample content. Other resources, such as those found on sites like Ontology's SampleSwap, explicitly state that samples "may or may not be cleared for commercial use," and users are advised to read the notes for details. Therefore, musicians intending to use these sounds in commercial releases should verify the licensing terms for each specific library.
Furthermore, the compatibility of instruments with specific DAW versions is important. Libraries created for newer versions of Logic Pro X, such as the Piano in 162 patches made in version 10.6, may not function correctly in older versions of the software or the legacy EXS24. Producers should check the compatibility notes provided with each instrument.
Conclusion
The availability of free EXS24 and Sampler-compatible piano samples and instruments offers a valuable opportunity for UK-based music producers to enhance their productions without financial outlay. Libraries like the LivingRoom Upright Piano Free Edition provide a professionally sampled, authentic upright piano sound with multiple velocity layers and microphone positions. Community projects, such as the Logic Pro X patches for Piano in 162, make high-quality grand piano samples accessible to a wider audience. Additionally, a range of other free instruments, from synths to drums, further expands the creative possibilities. By following the correct installation procedures and being mindful of licensing restrictions, producers can effectively integrate these free resources into their home studio setups, elevating the quality of their music productions.