Feb 14

Mela 5 Freemium Model

After speaking with a few beta testers I concluded that the pricing structure that used a subscription mechanism was confusing and even though it was acceptable once everyone understood how it actually worked it became clear to me that it would just be a marketing nightmare for 2 main reasons. 1) It contained the word subscription. 2) It worked in a way no other audio/music app I know worked, so for most users it would take quite a bit of explaining to do before it would click for them. So thanks to beta testers, that reminded me that I should cancel that approach altogether. Here's the new approach. It uses in-app purchasing mechanism. I think it's simpler and doesn't use or mention subscription :) Let me know what you think. Cheers! # New Approach As part of the 5.0 update, Mela will be switching to an in-app purchasing model. So, instead of releasing a new major version every year as a separate app, module collections will be purchasable using the in-app purchase mechanism. This will allow all users to continue to receive free updates. Introducing Module Collections. As part of the Mela 5.0 update modules will be split into 4 collections. ## Collection 0 – Free to all users – 10 Modules Collection 0 is free, providing an opportunity for you to explore Mela's capabilities firsthand. With modules such as the Arpeggiator, VA Oscillator, VA Filter, Amp Envelope, LFO, and Stereo Delay, you can experiment and discover a wealth of creative possibilities. ## Collection 1 – Free to Mela 4 users – 26 Modules – These modules were available in one form or another in Mela 3. Collection 1 establishes a robust foundation for crafting intricate synth, audio effect and MIDI processor presets. Offering a diverse range of modules, you can manipulate MIDI and audio signals in conventional ways and beyond. Included are audio processors like Chorus, Flanger, Phaser, Compressor, and Distortion, along with MIDI processors like Chord, Scale, Note Echo, and Strummer. Additionally, you have access to versatile modulators such as MIDI Source and Envelope Generator. ## Collection 2 – Free to Mela 4 users – 16 Modules – These modules were added as part of Mela 4.x updates. Building upon previous collections, Collection 2 introduces additional tools for shaping and manipulating sound. Features include FM and phaseshaping oscillators, a variety of digital distortion algorithms, and filtering capabilities with Comb Filter and EQ Band. You also benefit from modules like the Macro modulator, which enables simultaneous modulation of up to eight parameters, and MIDI Capture, allowing for the recording of incoming MIDI data into a file. ## Collection 3 – This will contain all modules that will be introduced this year as part of Mela 5.x updates – 6 Modules so far Collection 3 currently features four modules designed for manipulating stereo imaging in various ways. Additionally, the Digital Delay module offers an easy way to create ping-pong delays with extended feedback decays, while the Simple LFO module facilitates quick modulation of parameters using classic waveforms as well as offers random glide and Sample & Hold options. This collection will continue to expand rapidly as new modules are introduced in 2024. You only need to purchase it once. # Old Approach As part of the 5.0 update, Mela will be switching to a freemium model. Here are the key points as to how it will work. Let me know if anything is not clear or if you have a suggestion to make it more concise and clear. It will help me address anything that might be confusing in the app description and FAQ. ▶ UNLOCK ALL MODULES Subscribe to unlock all current and future Mela modules. Unlocking simply enables the module UI. This means that Mela presets will still generate and process audio with locked modules. ▶ SUBSCRIBE-TO-OWN If you stay subscribed for at least a year, the modules available during the subscription period will remain unlocked even after the subscription expires. ▶ FREE VERSION The free version includes over 10 unlocked modules, providing you with the opportunity to test out Mela's features. ▶ FREE UPDATES All other features of Mela are free to all users. Even if you cancel the subscription, you will continue to receive free updates, including improvements to the modules you already own. ▶ MELA 4 USER? As a Mela 4 user, all modules released within one year of the app purchase date will remain unlocked, even if you never subscribe. Changelog Excerpt: - The following modules will be unlocked for everyone, including the free users: Arpeggiator, Amp Envelope, Meter, Phase Inverter, Relative Pitch, Simple LFO, Transposer, VA Filter, VA Oscillator, and Volume. - With these modules, a lot can be achieved, including building simple analog synths as well as creating interesting audio or MIDI effects. - This will let new users test-drive Mela before they decide to subscribe to unlock all modules.

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