Just a Sample
Just a Sample: A capable free sampler for Reaper users who prefer plugins over standalone software. Ranked #22 of 26 in Sampler Software by our editors (7.1/10); pricing: Free plan; best for reaper users wanting a lightweight free sampler.
At a glance
- Editor score7.1 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forReaper users wanting a lightweight free sampler
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Plugin supportPlugin-only
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open source across Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Sample editing, looping, recording, tuning, and effects in one plugin
- 256-voice polyphony with Reaper and MTS-ESP integration
Where it doesn't
- Plugin-only with no standalone application
- Documented sample-format support is limited to MP3
- Its strongest integration is specific to Reaper and MTS-ESP
Our verdict on Just a Sample
Just a Sample is a free, open-source audio sampler plugin for musicians and producers who want sample playback without a complex interface. It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux in VST3 and AU formats. The product is particularly suited to Reaper users, while its plugin-only design also fits workflows built around an existing audio host rather than a separate sampler application.
The Free plan includes the complete published feature set: sample-accurate waveform bounds editing, independent pitch and time manipulation, cross-fade looping, direct sample recording, and plugin-state sample storage. It also provides a routable effects chain with distortion, chorus, reverb, and EQ, plus waveform mode for periodic sample playback. Pitch detection, A440 auto-tuning, MIDI controls, and 256-voice polyphony give the plugin useful depth for both melodic sampling and sound-design work without introducing a paid tier.
Integration is strongest for users working with Reaper or MTS-ESP. Reaper-specific integration and MTS-ESP microtuning support distinguish Just a Sample from a basic playback-only plugin, while support for VST3 and AU makes it available across the listed desktop operating systems. The trade-off is a narrow delivery model: there is no standalone application, and MP3 is the documented sample format. Choose Just a Sample if you want an open-source sampler inside a compatible host, especially Reaper, with editing, looping, recording, effects, and tuning in one free plugin. Choose another sampler if standalone operation or broader documented format coverage is central to your workflow.
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Just a Sample pricing
All 1 Just a Sample plans and prices →
Just a Sample fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Plugin support | Plugin-only |
| Sample mapping | Not verified |
| Round-robin playback | Not verified |
| Maximum polyphony | 256 voices |
| Granular engine | Not verified |
| Supported sample formats | MP3 |
| Standalone app | No |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 2 integrations: Reaper, MTS-ESP |
| Pricing | Free plan (source) |
| Website | bobona.github.io |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Just a Sample integrations
Just a Sample lists 2 integrations on its own site.
- Reaper
- MTS-ESP
Alternatives to Just a Sample
- LinuxSamplerA flexible free sampler backend for users who value format and host compatibility.9.3
- TX16Wx Software SamplerA deep, format-friendly sampler for advanced users who work inside a compatible host.9.2
- Decent SamplerA capable free sampler for compatible libraries across desktop and iOS.9.1
See all Just a Sample alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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