SampleTank 4 Custom Shop
Key Features
- 16-part multitimbral engine with disk streaming and 16 individual stereo outputs for complex layered arrangements
- 50 sampled instrument patches covering pianos, strings, guitars, synths, and drums across 16 sound categories
- Four Groove Players with 200 MIDI patterns for building complete tracks from pads or any MIDI controller
- 70 studio-quality effects with mixer, FX sends, and master bus for in-plugin sound shaping
- Full synth engine editing with custom modulation routing, zone switching, and articulation control
- Live mode with set lists and songs for instant sound loading during performances
- Expandable library through IK Custom Shop with support for SampleTank, Syntronik, and Miroslav collections
Description
SampleTank 4 Custom Shop is a sample-based workstation by IK Multimedia that puts a full multi-instrument production environment inside a single plugin. It ships with over 4 GB of sound content spanning 50 instrument patches across 16 categories, including grand pianos, string ensembles, multi-sampled guitars, synthesizers, and drum kits.
The engine is built on the same architecture as the paid SampleTank 4, featuring disk streaming for efficient memory use and a 16-part multitimbral layout with 16 individual stereo outputs. Each part can be layered, split across the keyboard, or assigned its own MIDI channel for complex arrangements.
Four built-in Groove Players let you trigger 200 included MIDI patterns directly from pads or any MIDI controller, making it straightforward to sketch full arrangements without leaving the plugin. The mixer section provides 70 studio-quality effects with dedicated sends and a master bus for polishing sounds in context.
An in-depth Edit view gives access to all synth engine parameters, modulation routing, zone editing, and articulation switching. The library is fully expandable through IK Multimedia's Custom Shop, where additional SampleTank, Syntronik, and Miroslav Philharmonik 2 collections can be added.
SampleTank 4 Custom Shop runs as a standalone application or as a plugin in VST 2, VST 3, AU, and AAX formats on both macOS and Windows.
Video Preview
Tips
- Utilize the 200 MIDI loops to quickly build the foundation of your tracks.
- Experiment with layering different instrument patches to create unique sounds.
- Use the Groove Players to add dynamic movement to your sounds.
- Take advantage of the in-depth editing features to customize synth parameters to your liking.
- Explore the SampleTank Editor to create and import your own custom instruments and libraries.
- Use the mixer’s 70 effects to enhance and polish your tracks.
- Organize your sounds using the improved browser for a faster workflow.
- Experiment with the different playback modes and voice settings to achieve the desired performance.
- Regularly check for new sound libraries to expand your sonic arsenal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can SampleTank 4 Custom Shop be expanded with additional sound libraries?
Yes, the library is fully expandable through IK Multimedia's Custom Shop. You can purchase and add SampleTank instrument collections, Syntronik libraries, and Miroslav Philharmonik 2 content directly within the application.
What is the difference between SampleTank 4 Custom Shop and the full SampleTank 4?
The Custom Shop edition includes 50 instruments and 4 GB of content, while the full SampleTank 4 ships with over 6,000 instruments and 100 GB of samples. Both versions share the same engine, effects, and interface. The Custom Shop license is permanent with no time restriction.
Can I use the SampleTank Editor with the Custom Shop version?
Yes, IK Multimedia's SampleTank Editor works with SampleTank 4 Custom Shop. It lets you import and auto-map your own samples, edit zones and oscillators, add custom icons and descriptions, and export your creations as SampleTank 4 instruments and libraries.
Does SampleTank 4 Custom Shop work in Live mode for stage performances?
Yes, the plugin includes a dedicated Live mode that organizes sounds into set lists and songs for instantaneous loading. Combined with the Pad interface for triggering patterns and the 16-part multitimbral setup, it is well suited for live keyboard rigs.
