AudioThing Reels

^# 24

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$59.00

2 Critic Reviews

0 wishlisted

3 saved

Page last updated May 12, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated May 12, 2026.

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4.8 (738)

$59.00

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$59.00

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Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "AudioThing Reels". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 22, 2026.

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Description

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Step back in time with the AudioThing Reels, a plugin that breathes life into your tracks with its authentic tape emulation. Drawing inspiration from a vintage Japanese portable tape recorder, Reels encapsulates the charming imperfections of retro reel-to-reel devices. Perfect for those who crave the raw, nostalgic warmth of Lo-Fi soundscapes, this plugin is not your typical mastering tool. Instead, it is a time machine, transporting your mixes to an era where audio was tactile and full of character.

Reels meticulously models three distinct 1/4” tape types, each with unique frequency responses and saturation profiles. From the gently aged JP tape to the well-worn FR relic, each brings its own sonic quirks to the table. Whether it's the WOW and Flutter that introduces subtle pitch variations or the motor's mid-frequency hum, Reels doesn’t shy away from the raw fidelity of yesteryear.

This plugin also offers a dynamic tape start and stop effect, replicating the gradual speed adjustments that lend an organic feel to your tracks. The built-in echo section enhances the retro vibe, while speaker and mic emulations add another layer of authenticity. With 50 presets ready to go, you can easily dive into a world of lush, nostalgic soundscapes.

Key Features:

Vintage Tape Emulation with three distinct tape types (JP, IT, FR)
Authentic Tape Start and Stop Effect
Built-in Echo Section
Speaker and Mic Emulation
Hiss and Motor noise controls with Envelope
50 Presets for instant inspiration
Resizable Window for flexible workflow
Preset system with randomizer

System Requirements:

Windows: Windows 7-11, 2GHz CPU, 4 GB RAM, VST2, VST3, AAX, CLAP (64-bit)
Mac: OS X 10.13–macOS 14, Apple Silicon Native (Universal 2 Binary), 2GHz CPU, 4 GB RAM, VST2, VST3, AU, AAX, CLAP (64-bit)

Product specs

Plugin Format	VST, AU
Operating Systems	Mac, Windows

Videos

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AudioThing

Reels Overview - Reel-to-Reel Emulation + Tape Stop Plugin

AudioThing

Review | AudioThing Reels | Lo-Fi Vibes & Filth Made Easy

MG The Future

Reels - Tape Start/Stop Effect Plugin (v1.2)

AudioThing

Audio Thing Reels | Reel to Reel Emulation Plugin

Verysickbeats

AudioThing Reels (Vintage Japanese Lofi Tape) | Spoken Walkthrough & Giveaway

Gavinski’s Tutorials

AudioThing Reels - Delay & Tape Reel-to Reel Emulation - Plugin Overview

Dash Glitch

AudioThing - Reels in Action (Tape and Echo Plugin)

AudioThing

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about AudioThing Reels.

Features and functionality

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The 'mic' and 'spkr' buttons uniquely emulate the sound of a microphone and speaker, enhancing the lo-fi tape effect.
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The plugin includes a built-in echo section and tape-stop effect, adding creative flexibility for users seeking diverse lo-fi textures.
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Use cases and applications

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Reels is a go-to for achieving a nostalgic lo-fi tape sound, particularly favored for its distinct character from cheap reel-to-reels.
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Reels is often used alongside RC-20 to enhance warble and coloration, complementing RC-20's limitations in decay and reverb.
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Reels is appreciated for its intense lo-fi sound, making it a practical choice for more aggressive sonic textures compared to other tape plugins.
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Comparisons

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Reels is compared as more of an effect, while Softube Tape is considered more of a true tape emulation plugin.
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Reels is based on a Japanese portable tape recorder, offering a unique lo-fi analog sound distinct from ReelBus's 80s cassette and Magnetite's magnetic tape vibes.
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Reels is described as more in-your-face compared to the subtler saturation of Softube's Tape, with Reels favored for pronounced lo-fi effects.
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Value and pricing

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Buying Reels offers a favorable crossgrade price to Wires at $29, with potential for further discounts during sales like Black Friday.
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Some users obtained Reels for $29 on the AudioThing site due to owning other plugins, such as Wires, highlighting potential for additional savings beyond standard sales.
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It's noted that the plugin was previously available for as low as $25 on Audio Plugin Deals, indicating potential for further price reductions in specific sales.
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User experience

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Some users find Reels more adaptable and versatile compared to Wires, which is considered more experimental and less universally applicable.
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Critic Reviews

AudioThing Reels Review - Bedroom Producers Blog

bedroomproducersblog.com

AudioThing Reels is a lush and intuitive tape emulation plugin that stands out with its unique sound design capabilities and beautiful interface. While it excels in delivering analog warmth and creative effects like tape delay and stop simulation, some users might find it less versatile than expected. The plugin’s harshness control can verge on excessive, and while the echo feature is praised, a high-pass filter would have enhanced its utility. Overall, for lo-fi enthusiasts, Reels is a compelling choice, but those seeking pristine fidelity might want to explore alternatives.

positive

Full Review

AudioThing Reels review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

AudioThing Reels delivers a delightfully gritty and creative sound, perfect for those seeking retro vibes and lo-fi aesthetics. With versatile tape emulation and a unique dub-style delay, it excels in adding character to your tracks. However, those looking for pristine, clean sounds should steer clear, as this plugin revels in its ‘crap tape’ charm rather than offering a polished finish. Overall, it’s a must-have for adventurous producers but may not suit everyone’s taste.

positive

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