At Splice, our mission is to empower artists to discover and achieve their full musical potential. Over the past few years, we have significantly advanced the music creation process by integrating cloud benefits into the everyday tools that music producers rely on. We are thrilled to announce the availability of Xfer's award-winning synthesizer, Serum, through a groundbreaking Rent-to-Own plan.
In less than two years, Serum has rapidly ascended to the #2 position on our top plugin ranking chart, a clear indication of its widespread versatility among music producers. However, its retail price of $189 has been a barrier for many producers globally. Our flexible Rent-to-Own plan allows you to try Serum for three days free before making any payment. For just $9.99 per month, you can continue using the full version of Serum on a pay-as-you-go basis, with no additional costs or hidden fees. Each monthly payment contributes towards the plugin's retail price, and upon completion, you will receive a lifetime license.
Not using Serum as much as anticipated? Serum seamlessly integrates with the Splice desktop app, ensuring you always have access to the latest versions and updates. This prevents you from being stuck with an outdated, unsupported version of the synthesizer, which can cause issues when collaborating with others due to frozen tracks or incompatible software versions.
Through our Rent-to-Own plan, we aim to democratize access to high-quality plugins for producers of all skill levels, making them more attainable. This initiative is just the beginning, as we continue to collaborate with Xfer Records to further integrate Splice’s cloud-based offerings with their plugins, simplifying the music creation workflow for producers worldwide. Sign up for Splice today and unlock the power of Serum for only $9.99 per month.
Understanding the Rent-to-Own Plan
What is Rent-to-Own?
The Rent-to-Own plan allows you to use the full version of a plugin while making monthly payments that accumulate towards its full retail price. Once the total cost is paid off, you own a lifetime license for the software.
What happens if I cancel my plan?
If you decide to cancel your Rent-to-Own plan, you will retain access to the software until the end of your current billing cycle. As long as Splice continues to offer the product, you have the option to resume your plan and continue making payments from where you left off.
How long will it take to own the plugin?
After your initial free trial, a specific number of monthly payments are required to cover the full retail price and obtain your lifetime license. Alternatively, you can choose to pay off the remaining balance at any time to instantly redeem your lifetime license through your Plans Management page. During the Rent-to-Own period, there are no hidden fees or extra costs, and you have the flexibility to pause or cancel your subscription at any time, without needing to provide a reason.
How does Splice authorize my software access each month?
Each time your computer connects to the internet, the Splice desktop app performs an authorization check to verify your plan's active status. You are granted up to three days of offline access before another authorization check is necessary. Once the total cost of the plugin is paid off, the Splice desktop app will no longer be required, and you will receive a lifetime license with unrestricted offline access to the software.
Can I install the software on multiple computers?
Please consult the manufacturer's guidelines for specific installation limits, as Splice adheres to the manufacturer's policies regarding software installation.
Can I buy the software outright to instantly get my license?
Yes, you have the option to pay off your remaining balance at any point to acquire the license immediately.
Is this the full version of the software?
Yes, the version of the software available through the Rent-to-Own plan offers the complete range of features found in copies purchased directly from the manufacturer and is always the most up-to-date version.
How can I upgrade my Rent-to-Own plan?
Upgrading your plan essentially extends your payment period. Some upgrade plans may offer discounted pricing, but your monthly installment amount will not increase regardless of the product you are upgrading. The total cost of an upgrade comprises the full price of the previous version plus a discounted price for the latest version. Upon completing your original Rent-to-Own payment period, you will receive the serial number for the previous version. After completing the payment periods for both versions, you will receive the serial number for the most recent version. If you start one plan and decide to switch to another Rent-to-Own product, your payments cannot be transferred. This also applies when newer versions or bundles of software are released on the Rent-to-Own program.
Serum 2 on Rent-to-Own
Splice has launched its new Rent-to-Own program, starting with the powerful wavetable synthesizer, Serum. Splice operates as a cloud-based platform, providing users with access to high-quality plugins and sample packs. The plan involves paying a monthly subscription fee that contributes towards the plugin's final cost, after which you own it permanently. A key benefit is that you can use the plugin while making payments, effectively renting it month by month. Another significant advantage is the ability to stop payments at any time if you are unable to afford the next month's cost or decide you no longer want the plugin.
Splice co-founder Steve Martocci stated, "It’s 2016, software should be distributed in an easy way that matches the market demand, but audio production has lagged behind. We’re empowering developers to deliver the experience the community has requested for years." By assisting individuals who cannot afford to spend over $100 on a plugin upfront, Splice's plan also aims to deter the piracy of music software. Currently, the only plugin available on the plan is Xfer Records' popular synthesizer Serum, which you can begin working towards owning.
If I purchased Serum from Splice, how do I get Serum 2?
All users of Serum will receive a complimentary upgrade to Serum 2. If you are currently renting Serum, Serum 2 will appear in the “Apps & Plugins” section of the Splice Desktop App for installation. You will have access to both versions throughout the duration of your Serum 1 lease. Once you complete your Serum 1 lease, you will own both Serum 1 and Serum 2.
If I’m still renting Serum from Splice, how do I get Serum 2?
As mentioned above, all Serum users receive a free upgrade to Serum 2. If you are still in the process of renting Serum, Serum 2 will be available in the “Apps & Plugins” section of the Splice Desktop App. You will have access to both Serum 1 and Serum 2 during your lease period. Upon completing your Serum 1 lease, you will own both versions.
How much does Serum 2 cost through Splice?
Serum 2 is priced at $249 USD. The Rent-to-Own option is available for $9.99 per month for 25 months.
Do I need a Splice subscription to use Serum 2?
A Splice subscription is not required to lease Rent-to-Own software. However, many users find value in having both to access custom presets.
Is there a free trial for Serum 2?
Yes, Serum 2 offers a 3-day free trial. However, if you are already renting Serum, you will have immediate free access to Serum 2 through your existing Serum subscription and will not receive a separate trial.
Will my Serum presets work on Serum 2?
Yes, all presets created for Serum are compatible with Serum 2. Conversely, presets made for Serum 2 will not work on the original Serum.
How many machines can I authorize Serum 2 on?
Xfer allows for authorization on up to 4 machines. If you have exceeded this limit, please refer to Xfer Records' support for assistance.
Do I need the Splice Desktop App to use Serum 2?
While you are renting Serum 2, you must have the latest version of the Splice Desktop App installed and open it every three days for authorization during your lease. After completing all payments for Serum 2, the Splice Desktop App will no longer be necessary.
I’m getting an error screen when I try to open Serum 2 - how do I fix it?
If you encounter an error screen stating: "This machine is not yet authorized for Serum 2" or "It looks like Serum 2 needs to be verified for this machine," please refresh your license within the Splice Desktop App.
Will I truly own Serum 2 after I pay it off?
Yes! Once all payments for Serum 2 are completed, you will own the plugin permanently and will no longer require Splice to use it. You can activate your lifetime copy by following the instructions provided by Xfer Records.
How do I get a serial key for Serum 2?
Serum 2 does not utilize serial keys for authorization during the rental period. While renting, the plugin is authorized every three days by having the Splice Desktop App open. After completing your payments, you will activate the lifetime copy through your Xfer Records account.
I have a serial key for Serum, do I need to use that for Serum 2?
No, the serial key for the original Serum is not required for Serum 2. Serum 2 is activated through your Xfer Records account.
What are the system requirements for Splice?
- macOS 12+
- Windows 10+
What are the differences between Serum and Serum 2?
Serum 2 builds upon the features that made the original Serum a favorite among producers, introducing significant enhancements. It includes a third oscillator and new synthesis types such as granular, spectral, and multisample, offering expanded creative possibilities. The refined modulation system features advanced LFOs and envelopes for crafting complex, evolving sounds, while the new arpeggiator and MIDI clip system streamline sequencing for both studio production and live performance scenarios.