The EXS24 sampler, a historic instrument within Logic Pro X, has been superseded by an upgraded version simply called ‘Sampler’. Despite this transition, a valuable ecosystem of free, user-created EXS24 instrument files remains accessible and fully compatible with the new Sampler plugin. These instruments, often created by sampling unique, real-world sounds, offer UK-based music producers and hobbyists a cost-effective method to significantly expand their sonic palette. This article explores the available free resources, provides practical guidance on accessing and installing them, and evaluates the quality and utility of specific instrument packs based on verified user reports and developer information.
Understanding EXS24 and Its Legacy
EXS24 was a sophisticated software sampler integrated into Apple’s Logic Pro X digital audio workstation (DAW). It allowed users to load multi-sampled instrument files, enabling the playback of realistic virtual instruments by triggering different audio samples based on note velocity and pitch. In a significant update, Logic Pro X replaced the EXS24 with a new, more efficient instrument called ‘Sampler’. A key detail for producers is that instruments created for the original EXS24, typically saved as .exs files, remain fully compatible with the new Sampler. This ensures that the extensive library of free instruments developed for EXS24 over the years continues to be a viable resource for modern production workflows.
The availability of these free instruments is largely driven by a community of musicians and sound designers who sample their own recordings, build instruments, and distribute them at no cost. This collaborative approach allows producers to access a wide variety of unique, often organic sounds—from vintage synths to field recordings—that would otherwise be expensive to acquire.
Accessing Free EXS24 Instruments: A Step-by-Step Guide
For UK consumers and music enthusiasts looking to explore these free resources, the process of obtaining and installing EXS24 or Sampler instruments is straightforward. The following steps are derived from verified user guidance and should be followed carefully to ensure compatibility and proper functionality.
Locate and Download the Instrument File: Free EXS24 instruments can be found on various online platforms dedicated to sample sharing, such as Pianobook, or through specific developer websites. Users should search for “free EXS24 instruments” or “free Sampler instruments” to find relevant sources. Once a suitable instrument is identified, download the associated file, which is typically compressed in a .zip or .rar archive.
Extract the Compressed Files: The downloaded archive must be extracted to access the individual .exs file and any associated audio samples. On a Windows PC, tools like WinRAR or 7-Zip can be used. On a Mac, the native compression utility or the Unarchiver application can handle this task. For .rar files specifically, a dedicated extraction tool will be necessary on a Mac.
Locate the Sampler Instruments Folder: The extracted .exs file needs to be placed in the correct directory for Logic Pro X to recognise it. On a Mac, this folder is typically located at
[User] > Music > Audio Music Apps > Sampler Instruments. Users should navigate to this path and move the .exs file into the Sampler Instruments folder.Open Logic Pro X and Create a New Instrument Track: Launch Logic Pro X and create a new software instrument track by clicking the “+” button on the track header. In the instrument selection window, choose the Sampler plugin to instantiate a new instance.
Load the New Instrument: Within the Sampler plugin interface, click the button located above the mixing fader to open the software instrument collection. From the menu, select ‘Sampler’ and then choose the newly installed instrument from the dropdown list. The instrument is now ready for playback.
Evaluation of Available Free Instrument Packs
Based on verified user reports and developer descriptions, several free EXS24 instrument packs have gained recognition for their quality and unique character. The following is an assessment of specific instruments, detailing their sound, compatibility, and practical considerations for UK-based producers.
Indossa Synths on Tape
This bundle is noted for its collection of 23 synth instruments, each captured on tape to impart a warm, crunchy texture ideal for Lo-Fi, retro, and synth-wave music. The instruments are multisampled, meaning every note is recorded individually rather than using loops, which contributes to a more realistic playing experience. The pack includes a range of sounds from melodic synths to bass instruments, and it also comes with free samples of retro drum hits.
Compatibility: Logic Pro X, Ableton, Studio One. Pros: The bundle offers a large number of high-quality, tape-saturated synths that provide a warm, direct sound suitable for adding effects. The bass sounds are reported to be particularly huge and effective. Cons: The dense sounds may require significant EQ and compression to mix properly within a track. The reliance on tape saturation might not suit all production styles.
Patronus Station
This unique instrument is created from recordings of Tehran’s Subway System. It functions as a pad that can be used melodically or for atmospheric texture, with three additional soundscape instruments included for sound design. The result is a haunting and expansive sound that can dominate a mix if not managed carefully.
Compatibility: Logic Pro X, Ableton, Studio One. Pros: The instrument provides a very atmospheric and unique sound, useful for both melodic playing and textural layers. Cons: The expansive nature of the sounds can easily overwhelm a mix. As with any audio-based instrument, pitch may sometimes require fine-tuning.
Lorenzo’s Drums
This pack offers a raw, unprocessed drum kit sound, captured with professional microphone blends (overhead, snare, and kick). The recording quality is high, providing flexibility for adding effects and character. It is designed to give a human drummer feel and mixes well with other instruments.
Compatibility: Logic Pro X, Ableton, Studio One. Pros: The raw sound offers great flexibility for processing. The recording is professional and works well to humanise a mix. Cons: As a drum kit, its application is specific to rhythm sections.
Box Harp
This instrument samples a homemade box harp, offering two different playing presets: plucked and picked. The samples are high quality, and the two presets provide distinct, versatile sounds. The instrument has a warm, intimate character that works well in ambient contexts and contrasts effectively with electronic instruments.
Compatibility: Logic Pro X, Ableton, Studio One. Pros: The sound is warm, well-recorded, and unique. The two presets increase versatility, and the instrument is easy and fun to play. Cons: The velocity controls affect volume only, not the timbre of the note, which may limit expressiveness for some players.
Community-Generated Instruments via SampleSwap
A notable source for free, community-contributed EXS24 instruments is the Ontology SampleSwap. This platform hosts a variety of original creations specifically for the EXS24. Users can download instrument files, often organised into categories like multisampled instruments or FX/drum hits. For example, one available instrument is “ontology-longevity-gongs.exs,” a multisampled gong with individual hits and pitched multisamples mapped across the keyboard. Another is “ontology-athomhard-fx.exs,” a collection of original digital sound effects.
Important Consideration: The samples used in these community-created instruments may or may not be cleared for commercial use. Users are advised to read the accompanying notes carefully before using these instruments in commercial projects.
Practical Tips and Considerations for UK Users
When engaging with free EXS24 and Sampler instruments, UK-based producers should keep several practical points in mind. First, always verify the compatibility of an instrument with their specific DAW and operating system. While many instruments are designed for Logic Pro X, some may also work with other platforms like Ableton Live or Studio One.
Second, pay close attention to any licensing or usage restrictions. Instruments sourced from community platforms like SampleSwap may have unclear copyright status for the underlying samples. For commercial projects, it is prudent to seek out instruments with explicit royalty-free licenses or to use sounds from reputable sample libraries that guarantee clearance.
Finally, the process of finding, downloading, and installing these free instruments is part of the creative exploration. Producers are encouraged to experiment with different sounds to discover textures that complement their musical style. The human quality of many user-created instruments can add a distinct, organic layer to digital productions, which is a valuable asset in the often-clinical environment of a DAW.
Conclusion
The transition from EXS24 to the new Sampler in Logic Pro X has not rendered the vast library of free EXS24 instruments obsolete. On the contrary, these .exs files remain a vital, cost-free resource for UK music producers seeking to diversify their sound. From tape-saturated synths and unique atmospheric pads to raw drum kits and homemade string instruments, the available options are both varied and of a high quality, as attested by user reviews. By following the straightforward installation process and remaining mindful of licensing terms, producers can effectively leverage these community-built tools to enrich their music production projects without financial investment.