samplv1

At a glance

• Editor score
  7.0 / 10
• Pricing
  Free plan
• Best for
  Linux users wanting a simple open-source sampler
• Free plan
  Yes
• Paid from
  Free
• Plugin support
  Both
• Facts checked
  20 Sep 2026

• Where it wins

  • Free and GPL-licensed with open-source code
  • Runs standalone through JACK or as an LV2 instrument plug-in
  • Supports JACK and ALSA MIDI, looping, offsets, presets, and effects

• Where it doesn't

  • Limited to Linux platforms
  • Feature coverage is narrower than broader sampler software
  • Requires a compatible JACK, ALSA, LV2, or NSM environment for some workflows

Our verdict on samplv1

samplv1 is a free, GPL-licensed, all-digital polyphonic sampler synthesizer for Linux audio production. It is aimed at musicians and sound designers who want a focused sampler in a Linux-based audio environment. The software can run as a standalone JACK client or load as an LV2 instrument plug-in in a compatible host, giving it both application and plug-in forms. Its core tools include sample looping, adjustable sample offset, stereo effects, and MIDI control for banks, presets, and programs.

The strongest fit is its connection to the Linux audio ecosystem. Standalone operation includes JACK-session and NSM support, while MIDI input is available through JACK or ALSA. LV2 support allows samplv1 to sit inside a compatible host rather than requiring a standalone workflow. These options make it practical for users already working with JACK, ALSA, LV2, or NSM. The combination of standalone and plug-in operation also gives Linux musicians flexibility in how they organize instruments and sessions.

There is no paid tier to compare: samplv1 is free and open source. That makes it a straightforward choice for Linux users who need sampling basics, polyphonic playback, looping, offsets, presets, MIDI control, and stereo effects without a subscription or license fee. Its narrower platform and feature coverage are important boundaries, however. Users working outside Linux, or those seeking a wider sampler environment than the documented standalone and LV2 workflows, should choose another product. For Linux-based audio production with a simple, focused scope, samplv1 is the better match.

Your product? Our editors can test samplv1 in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →

samplv1 pricing

samplv1 fact sheet

samplv1 integrations

samplv1 lists 4 integrations on its own site.

• JACK
• ALSA
• LV2
• NSM

Alternatives to samplv1

• 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 samplv1 alternatives →

Featured on iTechGuides

samplv1 is listed in our Sampler Software directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update