Safari Audio, Soundtoys, and EastWest: 3 Plugins That Bring Fresh Sound to Your Tracks
TL;DR: Thomann is spotlighting deals from three plugin developers — Safari Audio, Soundtoys, and EastWest — each bringing something distinct to your sessions. Verify current pricing on the product page. Check the current deals on Thomann before prices change.
What Are Safari Audio, Soundtoys, and EastWest?
Three very different developers. One common thread: each has built a reputation for tools producers actually use on real sessions.
Safari Audio is a boutique plugin developer focused on bringing tactile, character-driven processing to the DAW. Their tools are designed for producers who want something beyond the generic stock plugin.
Soundtoys is one of the most recognized names in creative effects. Based in Vermont, they’ve been building analog-modeled processors for decades — EchoBoy, Decapitator, Little AlterBoy, and the wider Soundtoys 5 suite are fixtures in countless professional mix chains.
EastWest is a leading developer of virtual instruments and sample libraries. Their Hollywood series and Composer Cloud subscription are go-to resources for composers and producers working with orchestral, cinematic, and genre-specific sounds.
Key Features by Plugin
Safari Audio
- Character processing — designed to add analog texture and color to digital sources
- Workflow-first design — minimal interface focused on fast, musical results
- Targeted processing — purpose-built tools rather than generalist Swiss Army knives
- Check the product page for confirmed specs and system requirements
Soundtoys
- Analog modeling — circuits sourced from vintage hardware references
- Creative modulation — LFOs, rhythmic patterns, and envelope followers built into core effects
- Broad format support — AU, VST, VST3, and AAX across Mac and Windows
- EchoBoy & Decapitator — two of the most widely cited effects in mixing forums, routinely recommended for saturation and delay work
EastWest
- Hollywood-grade sample libraries — recorded at EastWest Studios with professional session players
- PLAY and Opus engine — proprietary sample player with deep articulation control
- Composer Cloud integration — many titles available via subscription alongside perpetual licenses
- Wide genre coverage — orchestral, cinematic, pop, and world instruments in the catalog
What Producers Are Saying
Soundtoys has a long-standing reputation on mixing forums and communities like Gearslutz (now Gearspace) and Reddit’s r/mixingmastering. EchoBoy is regularly cited as a top delay recommendation for its warmth and musicality. Decapitator consistently appears in saturation discussions as a character-first choice for adding grit without sounding digital.
EastWest’s Hollywood series is a common recommendation in r/composer threads for cinematic mockups, particularly for its mic-position options and recording quality.
Who Are These Plugins For?
- Mixing engineers — Soundtoys’ analog modeling works well across mix bus and individual track processing
- Beatmakers and producers — Safari Audio’s character tools suit anyone adding texture to electronic or hybrid productions
- Composers and film scorers — EastWest’s libraries are purpose-built for orchestral and cinematic workflows
- Home studio owners — all three brands offer professional results without requiring outboard hardware
Pricing & Deal Details
| Plugin | Regular Price | Deal Price | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safari Audio | Verify on product page | Verify on product page | — |
| Soundtoys | Verify on product page | Verify on product page | — |
| EastWest | Verify on product page | Verify on product page | — |
Deals can change without notice. Confirm current pricing directly on Thomann.
Alternatives at a Glance
| Name | Price | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| FabFilter Saturn 2 | Check site | Multiband saturation with surgical frequency control |
| Valhalla DSP (various) | Check site | Algorithmic reverbs with strong community reputation for value |
| Spitfire Audio LABS | Free | Free orchestral and instrument samples, narrower scope than EastWest |
If you need deep orchestral articulation and studio-recorded realism, EastWest covers more ground than LABS. If saturation and creative effects are the priority, Soundtoys and FabFilter Saturn serve different flavors of the same need.
FAQ
Q: Do Soundtoys plugins require iLok? A: Soundtoys has historically supported iLok for license management. Check the official Soundtoys site for current activation requirements.
Q: Are EastWest libraries a one-time purchase or subscription? A: EastWest offers both perpetual licenses and a Composer Cloud subscription. Check their site for which titles are available under each model.
Q: What DAWs are supported? A: Soundtoys supports major formats (AU, VST, VST3, AAX). For Safari Audio and EastWest, check each developer’s product page for confirmed DAW compatibility.
Q: Can I try these before buying? A: Demo availability varies by developer. Check each brand’s official website for trial versions.
Get the Deal
Three respected developers, one convenient place to grab the discounts. Head to Thomann’s download deals page — verify current pricing and lock in your copy before the promotion ends.
Browse Safari Audio, Soundtoys & EastWest deals on Thomann →
This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Related Guides
This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
