I could use some advice on sample libraries

[davidr]

Usually, when I get a return, it is because my submission did not fit the requested style. This time, however, the reason for my return was:
"More realistic instrumentation is needed to meet the needs of this listing. Upgrading sample libraries or layering to get a more organic sound is a must."

This submission was in response to this listing for Romantic Orchestral Instrumentals or Cues: https://www.taxi.com/listings/S250906MD
I submitted this track: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LlfIKr ... sp=sharing

For this music track I used:
Pianoteq 8
Strezov Sampling Afflatus Strings
Infinite Woodwinds (for alto flute)

Of course, I used a lot of Midi CC messages to enhance the realism. Which instrument(s) could use an upgraded sample library?

Thank you!

[RealPickle]

Hey David,

My take on your track and the feedback is that the biggest issue is with the piano, followed by the strings. The piano is super dry and that makes it sound fake. Maybe simply some strategic EQ and reverb would do wonders.

For the strings, the samples themselves don't sound terrible, but they're not programmed very effectively. Especially starting at :51, and then again at 1:27, those passages with the moving string lines sound super MIDI and synthy. You mention using "MIDI CC messages" but I'm not sure what you mean by that. The two things you have to do for every part is Modulation and Expression, and there are specific ways to get those lines to sound more realistic. I've found the moving lines can be the trickiest to get right, but it's definitely doable!

Final thing I'd say is the reverb on the strings could also be enhanced to make it sound like a sound stage or concert hall. Right now everything is so dry.

TL;DR: I don't think it's your sample libraries. I think if you work on programming and producing these parts you'll get much closer to the sound they were looking for.

[RealPickle]

Forgot to comment on the layering thing. If you have another string library, layering each part with both libraries can do wonders for the sound--make it richer and more lifelike.

[telefunkin]

I have to agree (largely) with RP. IMHO the tone of your sampled instruments is fine and certainly good enough, but there are giveaway signs that the composition is midi-based. I think that screeners often blame samples or sample libraries because they might or might not contain sufficient articulations and control to allow composers to add realism. However, armed will all the best sample libraries in the world, if we send only basic midi data that is on the grid then the music is unlikely to sound like it was performed by real players. I'd also guess that you've already got enough of what you need in the libraries you have.

The thing that sticks out to me is that the piano melody sounds very mechanical and strict to the grid. Having some randomness to the timing and note velocities (including notes within chords) might help there, but also some sense of cadence in the phrasing. I'd also say similar things about the flute and strings, even though I do like the string sound. Basically, you have a very nice piece of music that has in-built emotion, but the performances are detracting from that emotion rather than enhancing it. My suggestion would be to stick with your sounds but work hard on milking all that emotion by putting the 'human-ness' in each performance - whatever that takes in terms of midi control. Further to that, if you are unfamiliar with actually playing the instruments in your piece, perhaps listening closely to human performances of similar music might provide some ideas on how skilled players work their instruments. Of course, all of this is easier said than done, but worth the extra effort.