Plugin comparison
Specs, price and the Dubspot Score, side by side — with our verdict on which drums to buy.
Independent score / workflow fit / buying signal
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Contenders
Sonic Academy Kick 2 by Sonic Academy. The kick design synth for electronic music: layer click and sub with node envelopes to build custom kicks from scratch.
Output Substance is a multi-mode sample instrument for modern basses, designed hits, and hybrid low-end sound design.
Score verdict
On the Dubspot Score, Sonic Academy Kick 2 comes out ahead (8.5). That said, the right pick depends on your workflow and budget — read both reviews before deciding.
Technical matrix
| Signal | Sonic Academy Kick 2 | Output Substance |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $50 | $199 |
| Dubspot Score | 8.5 | 8.3 |
| Formats | VST3, AU, AAX | VST3, AU, AAX |
| Type | Kick drum synthesizer | Multi-mode sample instrument |
| Developer | Sonic Academy | Output |
| Use | Electronic kick design | — |
| Typical price | — | $199 |
| Formats | — | VST3, AU, AAX |
| Primary job | — | Designed basses, hits, and hybrid low-end |
| Catalog status | — | Current as of 2026 |
See the full plugin database for more comparisons.