The latest software release from XLN Audio has been designed to allow users to take a step away from sample libraries and quickly capture sounds from their own setups or surroundings. Life is a plug-in that comes bundled with mobile and desktop recording apps, and allows users to instantly start creating beats from audio captured on the move or in their studio.
The Life Field Recorder app makes it possible to capture audio with a smartphone and have it appear instantly in the plug-in.There are two apps that come bundled with Life: Life DAW Recorder and Life Field Recorder. The first can be placed as an insert plug-in on a DAW track, making it possible to capture any instrument, microphone or device, and the second is an iOS/Android mobile app that allows users to put their mobile device to work as a field recorder. Any audio captured by either app is instantly synced to a cloud-based server and becomes available in the main Life plug-in.
Life will automatically slice and process the audio, and is capable of generating beats for users to browse — a Randomize button offers a quick and simple way to audition different ideas, and a selection of AI-based tools such as Density, Syncopation and Symmetry make it possible to try out different variations.
Plenty of manual control is on offer, too: slice points can be adjusted, and the plug-in is kitted out with a selection of built-in filters and effects along with an onboard sequencer. Once an idea has taken shape, an Export menu makes it possible to bounce out everything from a single slice to a full beat, either as a summed audio file or separate stems.
Compatibility
Life is supported on PCs running Windows 7, 8 or 10, and Macs running macOS 10.10 and above. An internet connection is required during installation, but not during use. VST, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
The Life Field Recorder app is available on iPhones running iOS 15.4 and above, and Android devices running Android 7 or higher.
Pricing & Availability
Life is available now, and is currently (5 December 2023) being offered for an introductory price of €109, reduced from its full cost of €149. XLN Audio are also offering a 10-day trial.
