XLN Audio, Sonarworks, Cherry Audio: 3 Great Software Deals for Better Sound in the Studio
Software Deals for More Character, More Precise Monitoring, and Fresh Sounds
XLN Audio kicks off an exciting round of software deals this week, as several well known tools for production and mixing are currently available at significantly lower prices. In addition to the RC-20 Retro Color effect plugin, Sonarworks SoundID Reference and Cherry Audio Yellowjacket are also on sale. This creates an interesting mix of tone coloring, precise monitoring, and fresh synthesis for your DAW.
Software Deals of the Week
XLN Audio RC-20 Retro Color Temporarily Available With a 60% Discount
XLN Audio RC-20 Retro Color is one of those plugins that many producers return to repeatedly. Few other effect plugins transform digital sounds so quickly into something raw, warm, or deliberately imperfect. This blend of character and control has made XLN Audio RC-20 Retro Color a regular part of many productions for years. The plugin is currently available at a reduced price, making it worth a closer look for producers who want to give their tracks more personality.
At the heart of XLN Audio RC-20 Retro Color are several sound modules that emulate different aspects of analog or vintage recording technology. Through noise components, subtle pitch modulation, saturation, or tape artifacts, a sound character quickly emerges that recalls old samplers, cassettes, or vintage machines. At the same time, the effect can be controlled very precisely, allowing both subtle sound changes and clearly audible lofi textures. The flexible combination of the individual modules is particularly interesting, giving each sound its own distinctive texture.
In studio use, XLN Audio RC-20 Retro Color works especially well with synthesizers, drums, or vocals. A lightly applied effect can make sterile sounds feel more organic and add depth to the mix. Increasing the effect produces intentionally rough textures that suit modern productions. Producers who want to add more atmosphere and character to their tracks often turn to XLN Audio RC-20 Retro Color because the plugin deliberately breaks up digital perfection and makes the music feel more alive.
Until March 29, 2026, you can purchase XLN Audio RC-20 Retro Color here at Thomann* for 35 euros instead of 87 euros, which represents a 60% discount.
Sonarworks SoundID Reference Various Bundles Now up to 30% Off
Sonarworks SoundID Reference pursues a goal that is often underestimated in the studio. The aim is to create a listening environment that is as neutral as possible so that mixing decisions are not distorted by the room or the headphones. Especially in smaller studios or home setups, acoustic imbalances can quickly arise that affect the sound. This is exactly where SoundID Reference comes in by attempting to correct the sound of speakers or headphones. The software is currently available at Thomann in several versions with discounts of up to 30 percent.
The software first analyzes the behavior of the speakers in the room. A measurement microphone is used to take readings at several positions around the listening position. The system then creates a custom correction curve that compensates for room resonances and frequency deviations. For headphones, SoundID Reference also offers special profiles based on extensive measurement data. The result is a significantly more neutral sound reproduction that becomes especially noticeable during mixing and mastering.
In everyday studio work, a calibrated monitoring system often changes the entire workflow. Frequencies can be assessed more accurately, and decisions in the mix are made with greater confidence. Many producers integrate SoundID Reference directly into their DAW or use the system wide application for virtually all audio programs. Especially in the bass range or with critical midrange frequencies, it quickly becomes apparent how helpful corrected playback can be. For smaller studios in particular, SoundID Reference can therefore be an important step toward more reliable mixing decisions.
Sonarworks SoundID Reference in various bundles is available now and only until March 28, 2026 here at Thomann* with discounts of up to 30%.
Cherry Audio Yellowjacket Now on Sale With a 33% Discount
Yellowjacket by Cherry Audio is a synthesizer plugin that deliberately sets itself apart from emulations. Instead of delivering a sterile digital aesthetic, Yellowjacket takes its sonic cues from classic analog synthesizers. This blend of raw directness and musical warmth is exactly what makes the instrument so appealing.
At its core, Yellowjacket operates with an architecture strongly reminiscent of vintage synthesizers. This is exactly what you would expect from an EDP Wasp emulation. Oscillators deliver punchy fundamental tones, while filters and envelope generators flexibly shape the sound. This allows the creation of warm basslines as well as lively leads or broad pad sounds. Particularly interesting is the combination of classic synthesis elements and modern enhancements, which enable significantly more sonic variation than many historical predecessors.
In everyday studio work, Yellowjacket quickly demonstrates its strengths. Music productions benefit from powerful bass sounds, while sequences or arpeggios add additional movement to arrangements. At the same time, the synthesizer responds very directly to modulation and creates lively sound progressions. Producers looking for a synthesizer with a clearly recognizable character can quickly develop sounds with Yellowjacket that stand out clearly in the mix.
Cherry Audio Yellowjacket is available until March 30, 2026 here at Thomann as part of a deal for 33 euros, which represents a 33% discount.
*Note: This article on the Software Deals of the Week featuring plugins and audio tools from XLN Audio, Sonarworks, and Cherry Audio contains affiliate links that help fund our site. The price for you always stays the same. If you buy something through these links, we receive a small commission. Thank you for your support.
