When I started SampleScience back in 2015, I never imagined it would grow into what it is today. At the time, I was simply trying to find a way to turn my interest in software design into a living, but I struggled to take action. Then, while studying electronic music production at the University of Montreal, I became seriously ill with shingles. The experience was so overwhelming that I needed something to redirect my focus—so I created my very first plugin: Thales Model I.

My first plugin, released in 2015, was Thales Model I

Originally, I planned to release it for free, but at the last minute I decided to put it up for $10. To my complete surprise, it became an overnight success. You can still download the old demo version I posted on archive.org, and there’s even an early expert review on Harmony Central. I had no idea that this little experiment would capture so much attention.

What followed was a journey filled with both hits and misses—Pastoral Tones became my first big success in early 2016. Over time, I learned something important: if a plugin resonates deeply with me, if it excites me creatively, it usually connects with others as well. That’s why I made the decision early on to focus solely on creating virtual instruments I would personally want to use.

2020 became a turning point for many reasons. Several of my free instruments gained huge traction thanks to YouTubers and influencers—especially SQ8ROM (now a commercial project) and Oberom (now a $1+ release). And of course, the global pandemic changed everything. My audience and customer base multiplied by five almost overnight. Things stayed strong until late 2024, when the closure of Computer Music and Future Music marked a shift in how people discover plugins.

Oberom is a sampled version of Oberon by Land of Cockaigne, a VST plugin that aims to emulate classic analog polysynths.

The landscape is very different now than it was in 2015. Magazines have faded, replaced by YouTube channels, specialized websites like KVR, and vibrant Instagram communities. Honestly, I think many of these new creators are doing incredible work.

Over the past 10 years, I’ve released more than 80 virtual instruments and sample packs. As many of you know, 2025 was a personally very difficult year for me. Even though SampleScience has been a success, it hasn’t come without challenges. I burned out twice, in 2021 and 2022. In 2025, I was assaulted multiple times and ultimately had to relocate for my own safety.

I’ve always pushed myself hard, but my body can’t keep up the same way anymore. Still, I’m deeply grateful for everything SampleScience has become and for everyone who has supported this journey. As I look toward 2026, my goal is to bring fresh ideas and innovation to the plugin world—new concepts, new sounds, and new ways of creating.

Today, I’m catching up on months of emails after taking time off to move, rebuild my life, and set up a new studio. I’ve collected some obscure instruments to sample and invested heavily in a modular synth system to explore new sonic territories.

So, no Black Friday sale this time—no sale at all, actually. Just a moment to share a bit of history and to let you know that SampleScience is still here, still active, and still independent. All my plugins are updated every six months; they don't require an internet connection, and you’re free to install them on as many computers as you want.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to another 10 years of creativity, exploration, and sound.

Peter,