I see Strymon Bigsky doesn't support disk based iLok activation, so the only options are a Cloud session and physical iLok (USB dongle), just like Pro tools or the UAD Plugins. As long as I know, this type of protection was undefeated. Can someone confirm if this has happened for first time or I missed something?

"BigSky Plugin requires either a Cloud session or a physical iLok key."

https://www.strymon.net/plugin-acti...xf0rv8AMnPrcSUmJEkr3OCwDJfv9UaxyOO1WKizL04t8J

 

Last edited: Jun 28, 2025 at 5:20 AM

It is Cloud or Physical like you mention. But why do you think the Cloud version is tampered correctly, when the physical key is still a local authorization?

The Intel Mac version was released on 04-06 as part of a bundle, which is probably why you did not see that release if you look only for BigSky. There was no mention of it being any different than any other plugin.

 

Last edited: Jun 28, 2025 at 4:54 AM

By physical iLok, I meant the USB dongle, which is undefeated. The 'Activate once and use forever' kind of iLok authorisation is not available for Bigsky as the page suggest. You need the USB iLok dongle or need to always connected to the internet, just like Pro tools. If I remember correctly, I had read somewhere that R2R has told that this kind protection is too hard to crack and not to expect it.

 

If you look at it in your iLok Manager software, it shows the 4 icons "Works On". BigSky only shows the far left USB key, and the Right Cloud icon. The two in the middle columns are greyed out. So they do not have the machine option available (edit just to clarify: for Big Sky).

UAD, Sonnox, Soundtoys are not the same options. Did you check the nfo file for BigSky? If it was something different than all the others, they would probably mention it. The nfo is the same as normal.

 

Last edited: Jun 28, 2025 at 6:36 AM

Technically the Mac people did it first if what you're saying is true. Prior to Mac's Strymon releases, R2R pioneered the iLok and then the Mac people will study it and apply to their OS. If Strymon is the first for R2R regarding the dongle, the Mac people found a way even earlier. I don't think so tho.