VST strings library recommendations?

[orest]

As Kolstad was saying:

It also depends on what you are going to use your strings for.

But, if you enter the web site of each strings library mentioned here you will also be able to listen to some demos, often both separated but also as a part of an orchestra, a pop production and so on. The demos will probably give you a hint of that genre they are most suitable for...

[waveheavy]

The one thing I definitely would not rely on are the demos on the string library websites. It's not enough info. A high quality video walkthrough with a demo of the actual solo'd samples is best, like a high quality YouTube video. The next thing is whether the library just offers full ensemble patches or actual separation of the string section like a real orchestra (violins I, violins II, violas, violincellos, double basses), and what kind of articulations are included. The better quality string libraries will separate the string sections, and offer a good variety of articulations (like legato, staccato, spiccato, pizzicato, col legno, etc.).

[mojobone]

I agree, the video walkthroughs are more informative. So is this: https://stormsoundmusic.com/guide

[annayarbrough]

Where one library may have a great sounding legato, but lack good staccatos, another library may be the opposite, and you'd mix or layer the two.

Dave, on this note, do you have any recommendations for a good legato? I've found ways to limp around this (different layering, lengthening in different spots) but no really good legato strings in their own right

The Cinematic Strings 2, Cinestrings, and 8 Dio (Majestica) are all very good in my opinion. They're lush plus they have the right attack, probably the Majestica might be the best, excepting LASS which is just too far out of my pocket range. Berlin strings fits in there too.

Great! Thank you!

[orest]

The one thing I definitely would not rely on are the demos on the string library websites. It's not enough info. A high quality video walkthrough with a demo of the actual solo'd samples is best, like a high quality YouTube video. The next thing is whether the library just offers full ensemble patches or actual separation of the string section like a real orchestra (violins I, violins II, violas, violincellos, double basses), and what kind of articulations are included. The better quality string libraries will separate the string sections, and offer a good variety of articulations (like legato, staccato, spiccato, pizzicato, col legno, etc.).

Well, it's a matter of an opinion. The walkthrough will rarely give you a picture of what the strings are suitable for. The walkthrough will mostly just demonstrate the strings, nothing else. I like the demos because they show (not always though) the big picture.

But, listen to the demos and plunging through the walkthrough can never go wrong

[Len911]

http://vi-control.net/community/

I always thought this was the forum to go to for "orchestral type libraries".

[Cruciform]

Thanks, everyone! Those are some great recommendations. I don't have the Kontakt player, so will have to budget for that, too, it looks like.

I didn't see if anyone addressed this so apologies if this is double up on info. There is Kontakt and there is Kontakt Player. Kontakt is a retail product allowing you to use any sample library developed for it
and also allows people to make their own if they want. Kontakt Player is a free player only. The developer pays a fee to Native Instruments and their library can then be used in the free Player.
So check the details on any potential purchase. Some may only require the free Kontakt Player. Depending on your trajectory you'll probably eventually want to get the retail version of Kontakt
as there are dozens/hundreds of amazing sample libs that require it.

[mojobone]

http://vi-control.net/community/

I always thought this was the forum to go to for "orchestral type libraries".

Yeah, there's a metric ton of info there on string and orchestral libraries; it's where I found the link I posted earlier.

[jonnybutter]

It's hard to suggest anything untill we know more about what music you are looking to do.

Another +1 for the above comment. It makes a lot of difference what you will be using the strings for.

LASS are pretty versatile because they are on the dry side, but you usually have to mess with them - they can sound harsh, just like real strings can. Since you are asking about legato strings, you should keep in mind - if you aren't doing so already! - that legato strings have a very pronounced envelope. They don't just 'appear' when you press the key or end when you let the key up. I think Mojo spoke to this somewhere, and of course he's right: strings move. They change in volume and tone all the time. Some ppl layer a shorter attacky patch on top of legato patches so you get the attack too. Keep that mod wheel moving for authenticity string wise. Unless authenticity is not what you need.

I've heard great things about Cinematic Studio Strings, and they certainly sound good on the demos and reviews. http://www.cinematicstudioseries.com/strings.html It is also a relatively dry library, and runs in the Kontakt player, so no additional software to buy. The Albions are fairly affordable (individually) and are mostly very lush sounding, and also run in the Kontakt player. Interface is really good too (unlike LASS, unfortunately).

I still use LASS a lot just because it sounds gorgeous (with some harshness cut out around 2k) and the shorts are just stupendous, to my ear. And because I already own it!

Good luck on this! There are so many good ones out there these days!

[mojobone]

Excellent point, Mr. Butter. Different string libraries incorporate keyswitching and MIDI controllers in different ways, as well, so it can pay to crack a manual before plunking down north of half a grand.