The big difference is that Salamandra is keeping one version; Zara has two, separate versions. Salamandra is following the path of Stereo Tool - they have one product, some functionality of which is free, but you have to pay for other functionality.
I interpret it differently, I see it saying there are now 2 versions; Salamandra and Salamandra PLUS, although it does refer to PLUS as an add-on (I guess that's what you mean by saying it "one version"), but for all intended purposes it still translates as two different version options to me. Just like ZaraRadio vs ZaraStudio.
Salamandra will remain free ... will continue receiving updates and fixes as usual
Alongside this, Salamandra PLUS will be introduced: a set of additional tools designed for users who need more advanced features, with a focus on saving time in daily operations.
PLUS is completely optional and works as an add-on to the existing free version.
I guess I get your point, but it's still comes down to Salamandra now having 2 - a free version and a paid version. It's all a matter of perspective I guess. As rose by any other name....
ZaraRadio and ZaraStudio are the same software, Zarastudio just has add ons I applied.
Just a note, the $50 is in his currency not ours. So it ends out to be a lot less. In NZ money it was just over $16.00.
@johny-c Wow! That really changes a lot! Now I'll buy it even though I don't know if I'll leave Zara.
I had to ask google ai about that:
"That confusion comes down to the currency symbol! Salamandra Radio is developed by Matheus Carolino, who is based in Rio de Janeiro, .. The "$50" your friend mentioned is actually 50 Brazilian Reais (R$), the currency used in Brazil.
Because the software is priced in Brazilian currency, the exchange rate works heavily in favor of someone using New Zealand Dollars (NZD):
Listed Price: R$ 50 (Brazilian Reais)
Conversion to NZD: Roughly $16.60 - $17.15 NZD
Conversion to USD: For comparison, this is only about $9 - $10 USD
For a Canadian user, the "R$ 50" price tag converts to approximately $13.60 - $13.75 CAD.
official website: salamandraautomacaocombr