TapeFi releases STOP, a free vinyl stop simulator for macOS & Windows
TapeFi has introduced STOP, a free plugin that emulates the classic vinyl stop effect, available for both Windows and macOS. If you’ve tried TapeFi’s previous plugin FAIL, you’ll recognize their playful approach to lo-fi audio aesthetics. While FAIL recreated the warped, mangled character of broken cassette tapes, STOP focuses on another iconic effect: the pitch-dropping slowdown heard when a turntable is powered off mid-playback. This effect has been a staple in countless records and mixes, often used subtly or exaggerated during drops and breakdowns.
The plugin’s interface is clean, minimal, and user-friendly. The large STOP button takes center stage as the main control, while a pitch range selector and Curve control allow precise shaping of the slowdown. Four additional modulation-style controls; Pitch, Step, Digi, and Wash, sit across the bottom, enabling creative customization with glitchy stutters, digital crunch, and ambient tails. The Curve control is especially handy for adjusting the feel of the pitch drop, whether you want a sharp, abrupt descent or a smooth, stretched-out slowdown.
The Wash control stands out as my personal favorite. It adds a lush, ambient tail to the effect, making it perfect for synths, pads, or atmospheric breakdowns. It’s the kind of subtle finishing touch often heard in synthwave and electronic productions.
The GUI is dark-themed, fully resizable, and designed for practical use without unnecessary clutter. STOP is offered as a free download from TapeFi’s website, requiring only a valid email address to access the link. The plugin runs natively on both Windows and macOS and is available in VST, VST3, and AU formats (64-bit only). For producers seeking a simple, effective, and free way to add vinyl-style pitch drops and lo-fi character to their tracks, STOP is a must-try.
Berk Öztuna, a musician from Istanbul, is skilled in handpan, percussion, and guitar, performing and recording his own compositions globally. With expertise in music production and audio technology, he integrates virtual instruments and sound design tools seamlessly into his work. He also writes insightful articles on music production and gear for platforms like Plugin Noise and shares his music on Spotify and Instagram.
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