Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 1.0 Kontakt 'link'

Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 Go to product viewer dialog for this item.

is a highly detailed virtual instrument designed to deliver an intimate, contemporary string sound. Unlike traditional orchestral libraries, it focuses on the "studio" sound of a mid-sized ensemble, making it a primary choice for pop, R&B, and modern scoring where a close-mic'ed, textured feel is required. Core Specifications

Ensemble Size: A 22-piece ensemble featuring 8 violins, 6 violas, 4 celli, and 4 double basses.

Library Size: Approximately 36.6 GB compressed (equivalent to roughly 69 GB uncompressed).

Compatibility: Runs in the full Native Instruments Kontakt or the free Kontakt Player.

Instrumentation: Includes 10 NKI files with separate sections (Violins, Violas, Celli, Basses) and full ensemble patches. Key Performance Features

Session Strings Pro 2 is designed for both realism and speed, incorporating several "smart" features to aid composition.

26 Sampled Articulations: Includes specialized techniques like true legato, portamento, glissando, trills, scoops, falls, and multiple types of crescendi.

Smart Voice Split: Automatically allocates notes in a chord to the correct instrument group to ensure natural voicing.

Animator & Rhythm Tools: Features improved phrase and rhythm animators that turn simple chords into rhythmic arrangements.

Traditional & Modern Seating: Users can toggle between standard orchestral stereo positioning (Traditional) or a more centered, "studio" feel (Modern). Workflow and Customization

The interface is streamlined for quick adjustments, with deeper pages available for fine-tuning.

Custom Ensembles: Users can customize their ensemble size, selecting the specific number of players per slot (e.g., opting for just one or two cellos). Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 1.0 KONTAKT

Built-in Mixer: Provides per-section control over volume, panning, EQ, compression, and sends for reverb and delay.

Color Multi-Effect: Includes 51 presets across five categories to quickly change the tonal character of the strings—from vintage gramophone sounds to lush hall settings.

Zoning Area: Allows users to adjust where different string sections sit on the keyboard for better-tailored ensemble performances. Critical Perspectives

Reviewers from sites like Sound on Sound and the VI-CONTROL forum highlight its clear, intimate sound but also note some limitations:

Strengths: Excellent for pop and contemporary genres due to its "dry" and precise sampling; very play-friendly with minimal setup.

Weaknesses: Some users find the violins can lack "passion" or energy in the highest registers, and the legato may feel overly "responsive" (robotic) for slow, highly expressive orchestral passages.

Performance: The library can be demanding on polyphony, especially when using complex ensemble patches with multiple articulations. Sessions Strings Pro 2 - Native Instruments

Achieving Modern String Textures with Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 is a highly detailed

library designed for contemporary production, offering an intimate, 22-piece ensemble tailored for pop, R&B, dance, and modern scores. Developed in collaboration with e-instruments

, this sequel to the original Session Strings Pro delivers a refreshed sound and a streamlined interface for faster creative workflows. Key Features and Specifications Ensemble Size

: A mid-sized contemporary ensemble featuring eight violins, six violas, four cellos, and four double basses. Library Size : Approximately

of compressed sample data (equating to roughly 69 GB uncompressed). Sound Quality Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 Go to

: Recorded with a focus on an "intimate" and "dry" quality, making it easier to mix into modern tracks compared to distant, orchestral-focused libraries. Compatibility : Runs in the free Kontakt Player (version 5 or higher). Expressive Articulations Session Strings Pro 2 includes 26 sampled articulations to provide realistic, nuanced expression: Legato & Portamento

: True legato transitions for smooth, connected melodic lines. Dynamic Shorts

: Staccato, spiccato, and pizzicato for rhythmic driving parts. Modern Flourishes

: Scoops, falls, slides, and various crescendo speeds (slow and fast). : Major and minor key-switchable options. Smart Play Assistance

To help non-string players achieve authentic arrangements, the library incorporates several "smart" features: Smart Chord

: Generates fully orchestrated ensemble chords from single keys. Smart Voice Split

: Automatically allocates notes in a chord to the correct instrument group (e.g., bass notes to the double basses) for natural voicing. Rhythm Animator

: A customizable step sequencer with patterns that transform chords into realistic rhythmic phrases. Mixing and Customization The interface includes a dedicated Mixer page

where users can adjust volume, panning, EQ, and compression for each individual instrument group. Seating Positions

: Choose between "Traditional" orchestral seating or "Modern" symmetrical seating for a more centered pop feel. Color Effects : A multi-effect page with 51 convolution-based presets

to quickly change the sonic character of the strings—from vintage gramophone tones to lush hall reverbs. or compare this to the standard Session Strings 2 Sessions Strings Pro 2 - Native Instruments

Unleashing the Power of Orchestral Sampling: A Review of Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 Extensive Sample Library : Session Strings Pro 2

Native Instruments, a renowned developer of music production software and hardware, has been a stalwart in the industry for decades. One of their most celebrated products is the Session Strings Pro 2, a KONTAKT instrument that brings the sonic grandeur of a string orchestra to the fingertips of producers, composers, and musicians. In this article, we'll dive into the features and capabilities of Session Strings Pro 2 1.0 KONTAKT and explore how it can elevate your music productions.

What is Session Strings Pro 2?

Session Strings Pro 2 is a comprehensive orchestral sampling instrument that allows users to create rich, cinematic string textures. This KONTAKT instrument is designed to provide high-quality, easily accessible string sounds for music production, post-production, and live performance. It features a vast library of samples recorded from a professional string orchestra, offering a wide range of articulations, dynamics, and playing styles.

Key Features of Session Strings Pro 2

• Extensive Sample Library: Session Strings Pro 2 boasts an enormous sample library, featuring over 58,000 samples of a professional string orchestra recorded in a top-tier studio.
• 4-Section String Ensemble: The instrument emulates a traditional string ensemble, comprising violins, violas, cellos, and double basses, allowing for a wide range of tonal colors and textures.
• Articulation Variety: Session Strings Pro 2 includes a vast range of articulations, from legato and staccato to pizzicato, flautando, and more.
• Dynamic Range: The instrument responds to dynamics, allowing for expressive control over the performance, from delicate pianissimos to powerful fortissimos.
• Easy-to-Use Interface: The intuitive interface makes it easy to navigate and find the perfect sound, with features like a smart arpeggiator and chord recognition.

What's New in Version 1.0?

The initial release of Session Strings Pro 2 1.0 KONTAKT marked a significant milestone in the evolution of the instrument. This version introduced:

• Enhanced Sample Quality: Improved sample resolution and a new mastering process for even more polished sound.
• Increased Performance: Optimized code for faster loading times and more efficient performance.
• New Presets and Content: A range of new presets, including custom mixes and a set of performance-ready articulations.

The Benefits of Session Strings Pro 2 for Music Production

Session Strings Pro 2 is an indispensable tool for:

• Film and Game Scoring: Create rich, cinematic soundscapes with ease, using the instrument's extensive library of orchestral samples.
• Pop and Electronic Music Production: Add a touch of class and sophistication to your productions with Session Strings Pro 2's versatile string sounds.
• Classical Music Composition: The instrument's accurate and expressive samples make it an ideal choice for composers looking to create traditional string ensemble music.

Conclusion

Native Instruments' Session Strings Pro 2 1.0 KONTAKT is a world-class orchestral sampling instrument that brings the sonic richness of a string orchestra to the world of music production. With its vast sample library, intuitive interface, and powerful feature set, Session Strings Pro 2 is an essential tool for composers, producers, and musicians seeking to create stunning string textures. Whether you're scoring a film, composing classical music, or producing electronic tracks, Session Strings Pro 2 is an unparalleled resource that will elevate your music to new heights.

d) Performance UI

• Keyswitches: Fully assignable per articulation.
• Articulation Map: Color-coded matrix for quick switching.
• Smart Chord Mode: Play one note to trigger full chords (customizable voicings).

The "1.0 KONTAKT" Difference

Why specify "1.0 KONTAKT"? Because this library leverages the advanced scripting capabilities of KONTAKT 5.8 and higher. Version 1.0 of the library is not a buggy beta; it is the mature, finalized feature set that NI shipped to great acclaim.

Key technical specs for the 1.0 release include:

• Uncompressed Size: Approximately 12 GB (compressed to around 6.5 GB via NCW lossless compression).
• Articulations: Over 40 playable and rhythmic articulations.
• Microphone Positions: Close, Decca (Hall), and Far mics.
• The "Legacy" Factor: Unlike later updates, the 1.0 version retains a raw, un-polished tightness that producers love for pop and rock sessions.

Pros

• Fast, production-ready sound.
• Versatile articulations and useful tempo-synced material.
• Efficient CPU/memory usage and easy customization.

Strengths

• Fast, musical results with minimal programming.
• Excellent for contemporary scoring, pop, electronic hybrids, and trailer-style textures.
• Performance-oriented controls let players shape dynamics and expression in real time.

What Exactly is Session Strings Pro 2?

At its core, Session Strings Pro 2 is a sample library built specifically for the full version of Native Instruments KONTAKT (or the free KONTAKT Player). Unlike massive symphonic libraries that feature 60-piece orchestras recorded in cathedral-like halls, Session Strings Pro 2 focuses on a tight, intimate, and slightly smaller ensemble: 11 players (5 violins, 3 violas, 2 cellos, 1 bass).

The "Pro" moniker is earned through its augmentation of the original Session Strings. Version 1.0 of Pro 2 introduced a revolutionary "Section Control" feature, allowing you to completely customize the seating arrangement of the players—something usually reserved for high-end scoring tools like Audio Modeling's SWAM engine.

a) Smart Voice Splitting (Divisi)

• Automatically distributes chords across the ensemble.
• Prevents the "synth string" effect where one chord triggers all players in unison.
• Can split into two groups for each violin section (3+3) to create realistic polyphonic writing.