There’s an endless list of violin VST plugins and Kontakt libraries, so choosing the right one for you can sometimes be overwhelming. This article will give you our top 12 to help you choose!
From the XVII century to the present day, the violin has been the most popular orchestral instrument and, therefore, a necessary element in every composer’s toolkit. Its vibrant and bright tone and expressiveness evoke many emotions whenever we hear it.
We’ve heard it feature in some of the most iconic music; masterpieces like Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and Camille Saint-Säens’s Danse Macabre, unforgettable movie themes like Schindler’s List or Psychosis, or legendary, timeless songs like Stevie Wonder’s Pastime Paradise or Kansas’s Dust In The Wind, so we know how versatile they can be.
Fortunately, we now have the magic of virtual instruments that makes it possible to add the wonderful violin to our music. So keep reading to learn more about this selection.
Top 12 Violin Plugins & Kontakt Libraries 2023
1. SWAM Violin V3 (Plugin)
This plugin offers an alternative to sampling and a more intuitive performance for the user.
Audio Modeling did a great job with this plugin using their physical modeling technology, making it more resource-saving and smaller in file size and overcoming the many limitations of other sample-based plugins.
In 2012, the SWAM Solo Woodwinds series surprised everyone with its great quality and authenticity in sound and performance. And they did it again with their Solo String series, having managed to create a very expressive and convincing virtual violin with an engine that facilitates a more intuitive playing.
Key Features:
- Physical Modeling Articulations:
These modeling techniques make the performance natural and intuitive for the user. Instead of the common limitation of having the same sample being played in a range of velocity or having to press a key switch to change the articulation, you get a different sound depending on how hard you press the key or play staccato depending on how long you press it, for example, or even play legato (which in bowed strings means to change the note you’re playing without changing the direction of the stroke of your bow). Furthermore, you can play harmonics and control the vibrato with the pitch bend, which is impossible with samples. - Timbre:
There are three models to choose from: Cremona, Firenze, and Venezia. You can also select if you want to play with sordino, control the bow noise and resonance, and even the amount of rosin. Now that’s cool! - Tuning:
One of the coolest features of this plugin is that you can change the tuning of the strings, meaning that you can select the base note for the G string and change the relation with the other strings in intervals of fourths or fifths. - MIDI Mapping:
The mapping possibilities are not limited to just articulations. You can map other functions to take the performance to a new level of realism; assign the vibrato to the pitch bend, the slurred legato to the sustain pedal, or even the position the violin is being played to a key to control the strings being bowed for a more authentic fingering.
Compatibility:
This plugin comes in VST 2/3, AU, NKI (for Kontakt 6), and AAX formats and is available for Windows 10 or higher and MacOS X 10.10 or higher.
Summary:
The MIDI mapping options and modeling technology make it one of the best choices if what you’re looking for is, besides a great sounding and realistic instrument, to be able to easily perform live or recording without having to make adjustments after you hit Stop.
Related Reading:
Top 5 Strings VST Plugins 2022 (AND 4 Best Free Instruments)
2. Native Instruments Stradivari Violin
Also part of Cremona Quartet Lirbary
Native Instruments and e-instruments finally make it possible for anyone to own a Stradivarius violin.
An immense effort was put into sampling the legendary Vesuvius, made by luthier Antonio Stradivari, owned by the Museo del Violino in Cremona, Italy, who partnered with NI and e-instruments to make that possible – thanks to their techniques and technologies for sampling instruments – in an attempt to digitally preserve this almost 300-year old instrument and make it accessible for any musician.
Each string on the Vesuvius was sampled chromatically. These recordings were so carefully edited up to the point of e-instruments phase-matching the articulations to make the transitions between them more natural and smooth, and then built into an engine focused on the performance and playability with the MIDI controller.
Key Features:
- Multiple Microphones:
32 microphones were used to record the instrument and placed all over the place in the Auditorium Giovanni Arvedi. Instead of reverbs, the engine uses a mix of all these microphones; this mix is separated into three channels – Close, Mid, and Far – to adjust the proximity. - Select Fingering:
Like most string instruments, the violin can play the same note on different strings. There’s a dedicated section to fingering style, so you can force the instrument to play with open strings, get warmer tones playing higher up the neck, or have brighter tones playing lower down the neck. - Performance:
The attention to detail that was put into the articulations is incredible. There are no less than 20 articulations that can be assigned to the key switches; you can have spiccato, staccato, pizzicato, tremolos, and trills with variable speed, changes in the bow direction when playing sustained notes, even harmonics, col legno, or sul tasto! In addition, there’s an articulation scheme called Virtuoso, which chooses between sustained or marcato depending on velocity, spiccatissimo or staccato can be achieved with the pitch-bend wheel, and the transitions from one note to another can be imbued with an impassioned portamento depending on the velocity. - Vibrato:
Instead of juggling different samples with varying amounts (and speeds) of vibrato, the engine applies artificial undulations and pitch variations to non-vibrato sample sets. This artificial vibrato was accomplished by analyzing the vibrato characteristics of the virtuosi who recorded the samples, meaning that this is no mere sine or triangle LFO. The rate and amplitude are constantly variating in real-time and can be controlled with faders; there are also six styles of vibrato to select.
Compatibility:
The library is available for Kontakt Player 6. Kontakt is available for Windows 10 or higher and MacOS 10.14 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Although kind of pricey, Stradivari Violin is an excellent library that offers great quality with a lot of warmth that sounds real and convincing, of course, its limitations can be noted when playing faster and more aggressively passages but can be overcome to a certain degree by mastering its functions.
Related Reading:
Top 7 Strings Kontakt Libraries 2022 (And 3 Free Libraries)
3. ORCHESTRAL TOOLS Igudesman Solo Violin (Plugin)
An unorthodox, refreshing, and unique solo violin library.
This library is recorded by Aleksey Igudesman, a violin virtuoso, and composer who has worked with world-famous film composer Hans Zimmer, featuring many incredible, contemporary, weird, and very creative sounds you can’t get anywhere else.
Image: ORCHESTRAL TOOLS
Key Features:
- Different Mic Placements:
There were seven different mic placements for the recording of this library. Like Stradivari Violin, this plugin balances the microphones instead of artificial reverbs to create a more natural sense of distance. - Un-Pitched Percussion Sounds:
Scratches, glissandi, chops, and more; these sounds are excellent for creating sound effects to build suspense, use as foley, and so on. In addition, some of the same passages are recorded at different speeds and respond to pitch-bend. - Neo-Electric:
Despite being called “Neo-Electric,” these sounds are actually acoustic. They were obtained by Igudesman applying a lot of bow pressure close to the bridge, resulting in distorted sounds sometimes resembling a fuzzy electric guitar or a lead synthesizer, containing several sustains, marcato, staccato, legato, and licks. - Rhythms:
A modest collection of sampled patterns recorded in a variety of tempos, octaves, and dynamics (some non-pitched) come in this library to provide a fast and easy way to add energy and motion to the music.
Compatibility:
This plugin requires SINEplayer (which can be acquired for free) and comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats, and is available for Windows 10 or higher and MacOS X 10.10 or higher.
Summary:
Igudesman Solo Violin offers the best choice to depart from the norm and get new ideas. Its unconventional sounds bring a new palette of tones with many uses like the sound design or video-game scoring and sound FX, for example.
It might not be the best option if you’re looking for something more traditional, although it does offer some more conventional playing, but with Aleksey Igudesman’s unique style.
Related Reading:
Top 12 Orchestral VST Plugins & Kontakt Libraries 2022 (+ FREE Plugins)
4. Evolution Series Bowed Colors Violin Vol 1 (Kontakt Library)
A raw and emotive sound that evokes movement and life.
Virtuoso violinists recorded the samples on this plugin to create a warm, mellow, and dramatic sound. Instead of aiming for the best overall virtual solo violin or being intended for very fast and aggressive playing, this plugin is focused on slow, swelling, emotional music, and what makes it so great is that it’s simple. It knows what it wants to be.
An advantage of this plugin over others on this top is that you can play several violins simultaneously; this allows the user to make very emotional duets.
Key Features:
- Articulations:
Over 50 articulation samples were recorded for this library, which is a lot to say the least. Moreover, the way they’re played feels very human, as if the music could breathe, with swelling sustained notes, very natural trills, mid-range rich pizzicato, and so on, although the tremolos sound kind of gimmicky. - Warm and emotional tones:
The samples in this library are incredible, making it succeed at what it goes for. The tone is rich in the mid frequencies, giving it a lot of warmth, and the reverb (despite being just a mix knob) has an amazing sound that makes the violins feel full. - Interface and Controls:
Simple, elegant, and intuitive describe the GUI of Bowed Colors perfectly. All the tools and options are displayed on one screen and are very easy to manipulate to improve the user experience. - Natural Sound:
The samples are carefully cropped and curated to give a sound that feels unprocessed. The bowed string timbres feel melancholic and create beautiful textures when played in layers, delivering an intimate and emotional tone.
Compatibility:
The library is available for Kontakt Player 6. Kontakt is available for Windows 10 or higher and MacOS 10.14 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Having such a specific goal, Bowed Colors Violin Vol. 1, is not for everyone, but it may be the perfect one for you if your intention is to make emotional stuff that invites you to cry or reflect on life. Simple and effective.
Related Reading:
Top 12 Ethnic, Folk, World & Asian Plugins 2022 (Free & Paid)
5. Soundiron Hyperion Strings Solo Violin (Kontakt Library)
A very lush and delicate sound with a simple GUI and very good tools.
This library features two solo violins that can be played in a duo with a nice sound that feels very airy and delicate but also very warm. You can control how much body you want to add; the less it has, the closer and more direct the microphone signal will feel, which makes it feel more intimate and personal.
The highlight of these solo violins is the 4 true legato articulations – an oddity since very few plugins or libraries have more than one – that enhance the duet capabilities, response to secure a more natural performance, and control over the velocity.
Image: Soundiron
Key Features:
- Key Switches:
With over 40 articulations, it’d be a waste if there weren’t enough key switches to give the user control over the performance. Fortunately, there are 12 assignable key switches to create a very complex and human feel. - Space:
It’s impressive how detailed and natural the reverb feels. You can choose between algorithmic and convolution, and there’s also a position control to place the instrument anywhere on the stage. - Sampling & Execution:
The number of samples recorded for this library is 9,538, so it’s fair to say that it was recorded in extraordinary detail to sound realistic. Besides that, and the key switch assignable articulations, the engine counts with velocity-sensitive round robin for the short articulations. - Arpeggio:
This section comes with 6 features: Rhythm for selecting the number of steps; a selector to choose between Arpeggio, Trill, and Run; Humanize adds randomness and realism, and Swing adds groove to the pattern; Direction for selecting the movement of the pattern (Up-Down, Zigzag, etc.), and Range.
Compatibility:
The library is available for Kontakt Player 6. Kontakt is available for Windows 10 or higher and MacOS 10.14 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
The bright and airy sound, although very delicate and sensitive, can sometimes be too much, making it feel somewhat unrealistic and unpleasant. Part of this problem can be solved with EQ and the low pass filter, but sometimes it’s not enough. Nevertheless, Hyperion Strings Solo Violin is an amazing library that excels at giving the user the tools to create a realistic sound.
Related Reading:
Top 7 Plugins For Game & Film Scoring 2022 (+ Kontakt Libraries)
6. Chris Hein Solo Violin (Now it’s called EXtended as you get some new instruments in it)
With extensive sampling, this instrument comes with a lot of versatility.
Recorded by violinist Naomi Binder and with 38 different articulations, including pizzicato, ponticello, tremolo, flautando, col legno, harmonics, ricochets, repetitions, doits, falls, chromatic up and down runs, effects, and glissando slides, this library’s objective is to be able to play anything from orchestral to jazz to gypsy.
Another great feature is the ensemble mode, which activates by changing the number of players from one to up to five and then adjusting the stereo spread and tuning to make it feel more alive and natural.
Key Features:
- Convolution Reverbs:
Two independent reverb channels based on impulse response are used to shape the Body and Room for the violin. Both have a volume and a delay knob; Body works with short responses to define the instrument’s character and has 21 different presets, while Room defines the setting and has 40 different presets. - Legato:
There are three modes: Short, for fingered note changes, which makes it useful for smooth and fast transitions; Long, for portamento, glides that can be activated with the sustain pedal and sounds especially nice combined with other articulations; and Glide-Mode, which inserts notes within the interval being played. With the industry standard monophonic, true legato, this instrument generates intervals based on real samples in combination with an artificial legato engine to smooth and blend. - Dynamics:
There are up to 8 dynamic layers to assign the playable dynamics and 4 dynamic modes for performance flexibility. With Keyboard mode, the up to 8 dynamic layers are controlled by playing with the MIDI controller; X-fade mode blends between the dynamics layers in a smooth manner; Keyb. & X-Fade is a combination of the previous two; lastly, Auto X-Fade creates a dynamic curve, and the length of the curve can be adjusted with the fader in the interface. - Settings:
In this section, you can toggle on/off the sordino effect and round-robin and adjust some controls like ADSR, dynamic curve, pitch bend, and the micro tuner. The DSP/FX part houses an effect rack that includes a three-band parametric EQ, Filter, Compressor, Flanger, Phaser, Chorus, Delay, and Reverb; this interface isn’t the prettiest, to say the least, and feels rudimentary since its controls are type-ins instead of knobs, but they’ll do the job, which is what’s important.
Compatibility:
The library is available for Kontakt Player 6. Kontakt is available for Windows 10 or higher and MacOS 10.14 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
The sound this library offers is really good; although maybe not as good as some other options on this top, this is one of the few that excel at having versatility and playing very fast, which is something to consider.
7. 8dio Adagio Violins 2.0 (Kontakt Library)
A completely redesigned version of 8Dio’s popular Adagio series, now more efficient and customizable.
With a reputation for making great instrument libraries, 8Dio received some criticism for their outdated string libraries, especially for their poor playability. But they’re also famous for listening to feedback, and they did! And decided to raise their game with version 2.0 of Adagio Violins.
A lot of work went into the recording process of this library, over six months of recording an ensemble of 11 violins and a smaller group of 3 referred to as Divisi, working 6-8 hours per day, resulting in 33,600 samples to be carefully later programmed to ensure an improvement in quality of playability during a performance.
Key Features:
- FX Rack:
Version 2.0 includes an effect rack called Chaos System with six effects that breathe new life into it: Phaser, a three-band EQ, Degrader (bit crush and distortion), Delay, Transform (algorithm), and Reverb (convolution). You can add some great ambiance with the convolution reverb’s IRs or use the bit crush and distortion to give it a LoFi vibe. - Microphones:
Besides all the reverb, this instrument also comes with three microphone channels with different proximities to balance the sound and get a more natural ambiance. - Articulations:
Maintaining its classic Adagio sound, recognized for its lush tone, silky legatos, and raw emotion, it now contains a large collection of articulations with swelling sustains, arcs, and legatos programmed seamlessly, and a new legato engine that consists of 8 legatos types that are velocity sensitive to respond to speed and playstyle. - Key Switches:
The interface was polished and now allows to customize key-switching. Users can create their own articulation matrix the way that best suits their styles rather than relying on default key switches.
Compatibility:
The library is available for Kontakt Player 6. Kontakt is available for Windows 10 or higher and MacOS 10.14 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
This is a great step up from their previous version. However, despite the undeniable improvement in their articulations, there are many other plugins in this top that offer more detail, but they’re also more expensive, while Adagio Violin 2.0 offer a great sound at a great price.
Related Reading:
The 8 Best 8dio Kontakt Libraries 2022 (Various Plugins)
8. Native Instruments Session Strings 2 Pro (Kontakt Library – Violins, Violas, Cello & Double Bass)
If you’re looking for the feel of an incredible modern string ensemble, this library might be the one for you.
The first Session Strings Pro had a reputation of being unimpressive, especially compared to many other amazing plugins and libraries out there. But Native Instruments upped the ante with SSP2 with many new tools to improve the expression and user experience.
To give a performance that feels authentic, this library comes with 22 different articulation samples and 9 customizable key switches giving the user control over the performance. You can also choose between traditional (left to right from highest to lowest) and modern (celli and basses in the center and violas and violins to the sides), depending on your needs.
Key Features:
- Mode:
With Velocity Switch mode, you have a default articulation and one that triggers once the MIDI velocity surpasses a threshold. For better control, assign the articulations you need to the keys you want with Key Switch mode, which is simple and effective. Rhythm Animator mode works like an arpeggiator; it has a grid of up to 32 steps to set the pattern and six articulations to choose from for each step. Phrase Animator works like an arpeggiator too, but focuses on preset melodies and passages. - Presets:
There are 48 different presets to help users adjust the vibe depending on their needs. You can select from a plethora of different settings to sound like a full orchestral string section, a more modest chamber orchestra ensemble, strings that feel recorded in a studio, or even give it a more LoFi feel. These presets are also very useful to get an idea of how all the tools can be used to get the sound desired or as a starting point and then make minor adjustments to give the feel you want. - FX Section:
This menu displays an incredible yet simple rack of effects divided into three sections. The first one is the envelope controls called Shape and Humanize to control aspects of the performance such as Attack, Bow noise, Pitch, Timing, and more. The second one is the insert effects that feature a Compressor, a three-band EQ, and Color; the compressor can be adjusted to have gentle, punchy, and transparent compression, and the color control acts like a pre-amp to enrich the sound and can select different units and has an intensity knob; the EQ also has three modes (Warmth, Wood, and Bowed) to enhance specific frequency ranges. And the third one is the send effects section, which has reverb and delay; reverb comes with pre-delay and return level knobs and different types of reverb, while delay has time, feedback, and return level knobs; both send levels can be controlled in the mixer. - Mixer:
This section comes with the traditional faders and pan knobs for each channel, but also we find send level knobs for reverb and delay, solo and mute buttons, detune and transpose controls, and additional compressor and three-band EQ besides the ones in the FX section for better tone shaping.
Compatibility:
The library is available for Kontakt Player 5 or higher. Kontakt is available for Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.14 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
If you’re looking to compose for a violin section or a string ensemble, Session Strings Pro 2 is a force to be reckoned with, but keep in mind that this library was designed to be used as sections, so it doesn’t offer solo instruments. Also, this library is rather expensive.
Related Reading:
20 Best Kontakt Libraries For All Categories 2022 (Synths, Drums, Vocals)
9. Violin Textures by Emergence Audio (Kontakt Library)
Perfect soundscapes with beating pulses, depth, and emotion.
If you guessed by the name that this plugin is intended for pads, soundscapes, and underscore music, you guessed right! Furthermore, this plugin intends to be used more like a synth-based instrument than a regular violin and experiment with its effects and articulations to explore and create new sounds.
The samples are long-lasting (up to 30 seconds) and are meant mostly for playing long notes. There are 12 articulations consisting of flautando, sul ponticello, tremolo, swelling sustained notes, and a good number of muted options and reversed waveforms as well.
Key Features:
- Effects:
One thing for sure is that Textures does not come short of effects boasting a whole section with 10 different of them, but the interesting part isn’t the quantity but the quality, with four different types of distortion (Dist, Sat, Tape Sat, and LoFi), effects for ambiance like convolution reverb and delay, stereo enhancer (width), and modulation effects like chorus, rotator, and phaser. - Envelopes and LFO:
You can get the most interesting sounds by combining the articulations with the LFO, moving the filter, and readjusting the volume envelope controls. Get some really unique pads by affecting the staccato with the LFO in square wave shape and mildly slow attack, or maybe a great lead with the sustain articulation, fast attack, and adding a lot of distortion and a triangle wave shape. Go crazy! - Layering:
Two articulations may be layered simultaneously with independent ADSR and filter controls and fade seamlessly from one to the other by the central knob (which can be controlled by the mod wheel), making it possible to create unique textures. - Presets:
This library includes 100 editable presets: haunting pads, beautiful melancholic textures, pulsating beats, unsettling noises, and so much more; everything to help you get started immediately or get off the creative block and give you ideas.
Compatibility:
This plugin comes in VST 2/3, AU, NKI (for Kontakt 6), and AAX formats and is available for Windows 10 or higher and Mac OS X 10.10 or higher.
Summary:
Unless you’re only interested in a super realistic solo violin, Violin Textures is a choice to consider; great sound sources from the samples and a lot of tools to experiment with. Also, very affordable.
10. Spitfire Audio Solo Strings (Kontakt Library – Violin, Viola, Bass, Cello & More)
Designed to stand out while at the same time fitting in with the rest of the orchestra.
Featuring six of Britain’s most prestigious players, Solo Strings provides expression and intimacy through lyrical solo passages, layering the solo strings, or string quartets. Recorded in the world-famous Lyndhurst Hall in London and captured with state-of-the-art equipment, this sample set boasts around 41,000 samples of great quality.
Six instrument patches conform the library: one contrabass (Leon Bosch), one cello (Richard Hardwood), one viola (Max Baillie), and three violins recorded independently; these are Virtuoso (Jack Lieberck), 1st Desk (Clio Gould), and Progressive (Thomas Gould), coming each with their own set of articulations and placement in the hall with the intention to provide the users with a gamut of colors that fit their creative needs.
Key Features:
- Intuitive GUI:
When loading a patch, we first see an overview panel offering quick access to all the articulations that come with the corresponding patch. This panel also provides the user with several assignable sliders controlling Dynamics, Vibrato, Release, Tightness, and Expression. Additionally, an Easy Mix slider blends and balances the signal between close and far mic positions. - The White Wrench:
At the top-left side of the GUI is an icon of a white wrench; clicking on it displays the general control options consisting of round-robin behavior, sample purging, transposing, CC mapping, tempo syncing, and more specific controls for mic positioning (Close, Tree, Ambient). - Ostinatum:
Clicking on the short articulations (at the bottom of the interface) displays a control panel called Ostinatum, a combination between a step sequencer and arpeggiator, allowing the user to create complex patterns by providing plenty of customization options. - Advance Controls:
This folder contains the Performance Legato patches for each instrument group. These patches come with an intelligent script that adapts to the user’s playstyle by analyzing the velocity and speed when hitting the keys and triggers transitions based on that. Playing slowly and softly, the script produces slurred portamento transitions; at medium velocity, a neutral-fingered legato transition is triggered, while hitting them hard triggers a quick bow change legato.
Compatibility:
The library is available for Kontakt Player 5 or higher. Kontakt is available for Windows 7 or higher and MacOS 10.10 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Spitfire Solo Strings is the go-to sample library of many musicians for a good reason: It’s well-recorded, masterfully programmed, and carefully organized, with articulations beautifully crafted and a versatile mix of microphones providing users with great possibilities. Nevertheless, it’s a fairly expensive product, so be sure this is the right one for you before purchasing.
Related Reading:
Top 11 Spitfire Audio Libraries & Plugins 2022
11. Showroom Violin (Kontakt Library)
Great controls for stage placement and plenty of options for reverb.
With 10,000 samples recorded with 5 microphones, this library comes with many articulations in a convenient single patch, so there is no need to change patches to get one articulation or the other. Also, the vibrato was recorded (instead of programmed) for a more natural sound.
The sound comes with a nice body with warmth and some brightness, making it stand out among other tracks without much difficulty. It shows flexibility, too, making it apt for film, videogame, pop, rock, and more.
Key Features:
- Legato Articulations:
This virtual violin comes with 14 articulations to give life to the performance, but the legatos are the most remarkable for their subtle and delicate sound. There’s Polyphonic Legato for simulating playing more than one string at a time, Bowed Legato for changing the finger and bow movement, and the one that impressed me the most: Slurred Legato, which changes the finger position without changing the bow movement for smoother transitions. - Great Spatial Control:
The samples were recorded with a total of 5 microphones (a large diaphragm, small diaphragm, ribbon, vintage, and ambient). Choose any number or all of them and balance them out to place the instrument anywhere on the stage and get the most natural ambiance. - Additional IR Reverbs:
18 IR reverbs were added beside the 5 microphones for a more customizable ambiance. It comes with room, big room, hall, big hall, alteller, studio A, studio B, studio C, bar, chamber, concert, arena, club, church, cathedral, canyon, plate, and spring, and with size and amount controls. - Simple GUI:
Something very important with these virtual instruments is not overwhelming the user by displaying an over-complicated and confusing interface, and Showroom Violin keeps it simple. In the GUI, we see the articulations divided into three groups (Legato, Longs, Shorts), faders for the five microphones, and the reverb section at the bottom left with a selector and amount and size controls.
Compatibility:
The library is available for Kontakt Player 5 or higher. Kontakt is available for Windows 10 or higher and MacOS 10.14 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Being recorded instead of programmed, the vibrato sometimes feels too rigid and unnatural since it can’t be controlled. Also, this instrument struggles to keep authenticity in fast and aggressive passages more so than others on this top. On the other hand, the price is very affordable, making it a good choice for entry-level.
12. Harmonic Subtones Emotional Violin (Kontakt Library)
Promising both inspiration and compositional freedom.
The successor of the acclaimed Emotional Cello and following the same concept, it was recorded in the same environment and with the same specifications. Nonetheless, there were three times as many samples recorded, and the script was rewritten from scratch with new features for this library.
Its sound is warm and immediately present and retains richness despite sounding dry, thanks to its natural release tail. In addition, it comes with various room options and impulse response reverbs.
Key Features:
- Several Patches:
This virtual violin comes with several patches divided into three folders. The Masterpiece folder allows the user to choose between a highly expressive and rich performance or one with softer dynamics and less vibrato. The Individual and Special Folders come with other more specific techniques like the Sul G Flautando. - Articulations and Resource Saving:
It features 25 articulations displayed on the left side of the interface – which can be unloaded by unchecking them to minimize the load on the CPU – and Momentary Key Switches, or MKS, on the right side of the interface that allows for mid-note modulation. The combination of the articulations and the MKS gives the performance realism and musicality. - Sound Shaping:
Simple but effective, this instrument features a three-band EQ to adjust the timbre and make the violin be placed correctly to stand out from an orchestra, a toggle on/off sordino, and modules for room and reverb that can be adjusted independently and provide an authentic sound thanks to the professionally recorded convolution presets. - Sampling:
Several string instruments were sampled in many different ways for over four years resulting in over 100 articulations and their variations to capture the aspects of a player’s performance like their natural vibrato or the true legato. These articulations were then liked through very elaborate, intelligent scripting.
Compatibility:
The library is available for Kontakt Player 5 or higher. Kontakt is available for Windows 7 or higher and MacOS 10.10 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
The stand-out for this virtual violin is the way it combines the articulations with the MKS to craft a sound full of authenticity, making it a great choice. On the other hand, the tone can feel slightly with too much body and lack some brightness. Also, some other options on this top have better samples (although not too much) despite not offering the same articulation control Emotional Violin has.
Best Free Violin Plugins 2022
1. French Violin (Plugin – Only For 1$)
Lots of charm and character.
A multi-sampled violin designed to sound authentic with a very natural and warm quality. One of its charms is its low CPU usage. It has three voice modes: polyphonic (to play several notes simultaneously and create layers), monophonic, and legato. It also comes with a multi-LFO and a room reverb.
Key Features:
- Modest Amount of Articulations:
Considering the price, this plugin boasts 6 different articulations to improve its performance: arco vibrato, arco non-vibrato, pizzicato vibrato, pizzicato non-vibrato, spiccato, and tremolo. - FX:
This little guy comes with some tools to enrich its sound; a pre-amp to add modest saturation and color, a glide knob to add some portamento between intervals, and reverb to make it feel fuller.
Compatibility:
This plugin comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats and is available for Windows 8 or higher and Mac OS X 10.11 or higher.
Summary:
There isn’t much to say; you get a very decent-sounding plugin with useful tools to improve its sound quality for an unbelievable price.
2. Slinky Violin (Kontakt Library)
A hauntingly beautiful and unique sound is the result of this experiment.
So, this is a weird one. David Holowitz had this violin that, in his words, “sounds terrible” and was thinking of throwing it away, but had the idea (inspired by a previous experiment with the guitar) to attached a metal piece to the bridge, a slinky (a very long spring) to that metal piece and the slinky a Piezo michrophone. The result? Something out of this physical realm.
Key Features:
- Different Cool Presets:
This library contains five versions of the patch: Slinky Violin, the basic version of the patch, with two velocity layers; Slinky Violin forte, just the loud layers; Slinky Violin piano, just the soft layers; Slinky Violin Duet, both the soft and loud layers from the above sample being played at the same time; and, Slinky Violin Duet (modwheel), controls the dynamics with the modwheel, all the way down plays just one layer, and all the way up plays both layers at full intensity. - Amazing Sound:
This terrible violin (which, in my opinion, didn’t sound that terrible) now possesses this vibrant, bright, and metallic sound with a somewhat spooky reverb that invites you to play slow, solemn, or very dark music. It’s beautiful how the high frequencies got enhanced, yet it conserved a little bit of that full and warm mid-range, changing its personality completely.
Compatibility:
The library is available for Kontakt Player 6. Kontakt is available for Windows 10 or higher and MacOS 10.14 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
It’s amazing how we can change the sound of something that sounds not-so-great and make it great. So for this one, too, there’s no reason not to download this library. It’s free, very light, and sounds awesome.
3. DSK Strings By DSK Music (Plugin)
Strings is a free plugin and part of DSK’s virtual instruments collection, which is always a great option for beginners or musicians with a low budget.
This plugin comes with a lot of flexibility in options with different instrument sets – both solo and sections – with bowed and pizzicato playstyle, volume envelope controls, a stereo controller, fine-tune, and effects, all displayed in an easy-to-use GUI.
The sound in general is pretty good, especially considering it’s free; although, also somewhat limited to how much a realistic performance the solo instruments can offer. There’s also no key switches, meaning that you have to rely on a specific sample preset to get legato, staccato, or pizzicato, which can be limiting.
Key Features:
- Two Separate Channels:
Having plenty of instruments or sections to choose from, this plugin also has two channels to play them, meaning that you can have a solo instrument like, for example, a violin playing with a string section. - FX:
Both channels have a delay, flanger, and reverb effects with many controls to shape the sound, especially the reverb, coming with gate, size, width, damp, and mix. - Sample Presets:
Strings offers the user the four bowed strings of a symphonic orchestra: violin, viola, cello, and contrabass, and they come in solo and section modes and a string section. Each solo instrument has a legato and pizzicato mode, while the sections have a piano, forte, and staccato mode. There’s also a glissando FX preset for descending glissandos.
Compatibility:
This plugin comes in VST2 format and is only compatible with DAWs designed for a 32-bit Build, Available for Windows 7 or higher.
Summary:
DSK Strings has a lot to offer as long as the user can understand and cope with its limitations, which is not that difficult. Also, its many tools and beginner-friendly interface make it easy for the user to get control to shape the sound.
4. Bigcat Instruments VSCO2 Violin Section (Plugin)
Surprising quality and character for a free plugin.
This free plugin is a violin section with a great sound and personality. Its sound is full and warm. It comes with ADSR envelope controls, reverb, and six articulations.
Key Features:
- Incredible Quality:
It might be free, but a lot of love and care was put into it to give it a great sound; very sensitive and evocative and rich in the mid frequencies, so it has a lot of body too. - Articulations:
There are six articulations to choose from: Arco Vib., Arco Vib. f, Arco Vib. p, pizzicato, spiccato, tremolo. This plugin does not come with a velocity switch or key switches, but its articulations can still be changed with automation, which is not so bad.
Compatibility:
This plugin comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats and is available for Windows 7 or higher and Mac OS X 10.10 or higher.
Summary:
There is NO reason not to download and try this plugin. It might be limited regarding articulations, but it has nothing to envy when it comes to the sound compared to other libraries on this top.
Bonus
Native Instruments Cremona Quartet (Kontakt Library – Violin, Viola & Cello)
So, we already talked about Stradivari Violin, but now we’re going to talk about the string quartet, which is part of to give you more insight.
This powerhouse is the combined effort of NI and e-instruments, consisting of Stradivari Violin, Guarneri Violin, Amati Viola, and Stradivari Cello. All of them were recorded in the Auditorium Giovanni Arvedi.
All other instruments were equally carefully sampled, just like the Vesuvius (Stradivari Violin), and come with the same articulations and tools.
Key Features:
- Comes With All of Stradivari Violin’s Features:
The same amount of love put into the Stradivari Violin was put into these three instruments. All of them were equally recorded with 32 microphones spread all over the auditorium and phase-matched. Each instrument features more than 20 articulations, including legato, spiccato, staccato, pizzicato, tremolos, and trills with variable speed, changes in the bow direction when playing sustained notes, even harmonics, col legno, and sul tasto, and have the same vibrato function based on the playing of the virtuosi who recorded the instruments. - The Ultimate String Quartet:
Now, with a full ensemble, some of the features are enhanced, like, for example, the multi-mic. Also, now you can not just balance the instrument’s sound by placing it anywhere in the auditorium, but spread all the instruments across the stereo to fill the whole place with their beautiful sound. - Recorded In The Same Place:
The best thing about this library is how well these instruments play with each other. Since they were all recorded in the same place, the mic balancing acts pretty much like an impulse response and goes to a whole new level with how they behave. The performance feels so natural that it’s hard to imagine they were not recorded at the same time. - Instruments:
This library features some of the oldest, rarest, most valuable instruments, the viola Stauffer, made by Andrea Amati in 1614, being the oldest. Being regarded as some of the best instruments of their era and having reached a legendary status, the wish to preserve that piece of the history of Cremona and the history of music, but also to share them with everyone instead of just being an exhibit in a museum, come together in the form of this quartet.
Compatibility:
The library is available for Kontakt Player 6. Kontakt is available for Windows 10 or higher and MacOS 10.14 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
With a full quartet now, the limitations in the articulations feel now less important, as there are now four instruments playing at the same time, deviating the attention of one specific. The only issue I find with this powerhouse is the price. You need to be sure this is the one you need (or make a lot of money, so you don’t care) since it is such a big investment.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks.
This one was really hard; it’s a LONG list with many options for different needs. In the end, Stradivari Violin got the edge over Swam Violin because its sound quality feels more natural despite Swam Violin being slightly superior regarding the articulations and MIDI mapping.
Session Strings Pro 2 is still my favorite when it comes to an ensemble. I’ve used it for two years and have almost nothing to complain about. Another one really cool was Bowed Colors; I loved how full, warm and emotional its sound was.
As for the free plugins, French Violin and VSCO2 are the winners (for solo and section, respectively), no doubt. So don’t sleep on them and give them a try!
Best Cello Plugins & KONTAKT Libraries
Orchestras are music ensembles with multiple sections, with many musicians in each section. These ensembles developed and evolved from earlier settings, as far back as the 17th century, which culminated in the formation we see today in operas and concertos.
A stringed segment contains only string instruments among the multiple sections. You’ll hear violins, violas, double basses, and cellos ringing clearly, and it’s that last instrument we’re discussing today.
The cello, or violoncello, is a four-string instrument of the violin family. Usually, it’s tuned one octave below a viola (C2, G2, D3, and A3) and is significantly larger than one, coming in 4/4 and 7/8 sizes (about 30 inches in height). It’s a part of the string quartet, but it can also be used as a solo instrument or as a part of an even larger ensemble.
Modern styles and film scores use the cello in their creations, constantly present in jazz, world, and neoclassical music. It’s versatile, all its sounds are wonderful to listen to, and gladly you can count on good-sounding plugins and sample libraries to get a glimpse of this beautiful instrument inside your DAW.
Today’s list encompasses the best cello plugins and Kontakt libraries available in 2022, with some special additions at the end of the article.
Top 12 Cello Plugins & KONTAKT Libraries In 2022
1. Native Instruments Stradivari Cello (Kontakt Library)
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Also Included in Cremona Quartet Strings Collection
The deep tones of an authentic Stradivari cello are ready to use however you’d like.
The Cremona Quartet Strings Collections is a bundle that includes a string quartet, but not a regular one: here, you have multiple historical instruments, like Stradivari and Guarneri, sampled most cautiously. Among the multiple options in the bundle, the cello is our focus here.
Key Features:
-
- “True Solo”
Every sampled note on Stradivari Cello was meticulously recorded using several dynamics and microphone placements, ensuring that there are no phasing difficulties on legato transitions from pianissimo to fortissimo. This results in startlingly organic performances, similar to what a genuine player would provide. - “Smart” algorithm
The “Smart” position algorithm allows you to rapidly mimic the fingerboard position that any professional player would pick in a live concert. You may customize how the instrument sounds by switching between both the “Low String” and “High String” choices. The lower position produces a mellower sound, and the higher position produces a crisper and brighter sonority. - Realistic vibrato
Essentially, you have an excellent vibrato effect collected out from the player’s hand and can afterwards reapply to the sample itself with the appropriate settings you may wish to include. This guarantees that the greatest and most natural effect is produced while allowing you to automate and regulate it instantaneously. - Authentic instrument
You can expect to use one of the best-sounding instruments on the planet in your next production. The cello sampled was a 1700 Stradivari “Stauffer” model, with unique responsiveness and sound character. All the rich, warm tones can be not only recreated but also tweaked according to your taste and needs. - Mic positioning
Native Instruments always include an option where you can set the mixdown of the microphones present in your unique way. There are 32 microphones, but they’re all included within the three main categories – “Close,” “Mid,” and “Far.” You can also use a stereo-only mix that will go easy on your CPU processing, delivering the same results in a faster workflow.
- “True Solo”
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.14, 10.15, 11, or 12 (latest update) and Windows 10 (64-bit only and latest Service Pack required). It comes in VST, VST3, AAX, and AU plugin formats. Kontakt Player or Kontakt version 6.2.2 or higher is required.
Summary:
Aside from its normal outstanding efforts, Native Instruments has outdone itself again by simply providing the finest string quartet library you could dream of. Sure, what counts most, in the end, is excellent audio quality and articulation, but the cellos in this collection much exceed any expectations. Stradivari is a very well-known name in the world of luthier work, so why not include one in your next production? The sound quality is incredible, as was the recording procedure. The articulations are excellent and should work well in most productions.
2. Audio Modeling SWAM Cello V3 (Plugin)
Audio Modeling is a company dedicated to recreating famous instruments without the help of any sample files, instead counting on physical modelling to achieve the same sonic results. This results in significant lightweight storage space and RAM consumption, as it doesn’t depend on any sample files to be loaded.
Key Features:
-
- Left-hand mode
One of the three main modes included in SWAM Cello V3 is called “Left Hand.” If selected, you can choose an alternate fingering: “Mid Position,” which sets the left hand in the middle of the neck, “Near The Bridge,” which will set the hand towards the cello’s bridge, and “Near The Nut + Open,” which sets the left hand near the nut and using open strings as well. - Right-hand mode
The “Right Hand” mode allows further tweaking in your playing style. You can alternate between “Bow,” which introduces a bow to your instrument, “Pizzicato,” a method of plucking the strings with the fingers, and “Col Legno,” a method that uses bow strikes in each string to resonate the notes. - Polyphony mode
The last of the three main modes that set your cello sound right is entitled “Polyphony,” which deals with different polyphonic movements to be played in your cello. For instance, you can mess with bow polyphony, pizzicato/col legno polyphony, mono cross-string muting, and double hold string muting. This is a useful section to work with more than one string simultaneously, providing more human touch to your track. - Pitch adjustments
Divided into “Master Tunng” and “Micro Tuning,” this segment deals with everything related to your overall pitch. You can change the master tuning of the instrument in Hz or cents, aside from transposing the key of your piece seamlessly. If that’s not enough, the “Micro Tuning” segment lets you set the perfect tuning for your instrument, saving up to seven different of them for your continuous use. - Timbre
Aside from the technical aspects of modelling a cello’s sound, you can add the final touch by setting the perfect timbre for your need. Especially when dealing with an ensemble or quarter situation, defining each instrument’s timbre is essential to enhance its best qualities. You can freely adjust this in the “Timbre” section.
- Left-hand mode
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.10 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 10 or higher (64-bit only). It runs in VST, VST3, NKS, AAX, and AU plugin formats.
Summary:
SWAM Cello V3 brings the best aspects of the cello’s sound, but without a single sampled audio file added to the bundle. This not only makes it significantly lighter in size but also explores the depths of physical modelling and how that can be useful to us, producers and musicians. As a result, you can expect brilliant sounds with the best quality and definition in every subtle aspect. The articulations and variable plucking methods are also very nice, providing an overall realistic experience.
3. Orchestral Tools Nocturne Cello Soloists II (Kontakt Library)
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The best Berlin players were gathered to make this awesome library available.
Orchestral Tools is known to deliver some of the best sample libraries when it comes to orchestral instruments. Now, the “Soloist Series” brings the most sought-after instruments to you with masterfully recorded samples and the most diverse articulations and dynamics, this time focused solely on the cello.
Key Features:
-
- Legato performances
Legato is highly important to provide a humanized performance, so Nocturne Cello Soloists II has 14 different legato modes available. They all provide different speeds, particular techniques, or variable expressions, delivering an authentic and realistic performance. - Legato patches
Aside from the multiple legato performances included, there are two legato patches in Nocturne Cello Soloists II: you can choose between a “detacheé” or “slurred” playing mode, which sets how each legato performance group is expected to sound. - Set your long notes
Recreating every single aspect of the cello’s resonance is hard, but Orchestral Tools managed to do so brilliantly. The long notes in Nocturne Cello Soloists II cover a wide range of lengths, expressions, and dynamics to provide the most realistic experience in the final sound result. Your notes won’t sound the same and will have that characteristic human feel. - Dynamic layer
Orchestral Tools decided to go with a single dynamic layer in Nocturne Cello Soloists II. As it’s commonly expected of acoustic instruments, multiple dynamic layers can cause various phase issues during the recording process, so the team chose to have a single layer available as to reduce any related problems to a minimum.
- Legato performances
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.15 or higher (latest update) and Windows 10 (64-bit only and latest Service Pack required). It comes in VST, VST3, AAX, and AU plugin formats. Kontakt version 5.5.1 or higher is required (it will not run in the Free Kontakt Player).
Summary:
As promised, this library is one of the best-sounding available. Orchestral Tools never fails to amaze producers and musicians with its exquisite, precise recreations of famous instruments. Of course, capturing that essence with a cello is very hard, but Nocturne Cello Soloists II delivers wonderful sound results, with as much tweaking as possible to make your notes sound like you expected them to.
4. Chris Hein Solo Cello EXtended (Kontakt Library)
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A sample library focused on capturing the best elements of a single instrument.
The Solo Cello EXtended by Chris Hein is a sample library consisting of four cellos played by different professional musicians, recorded with utmost care and attention to detail. The final result was optimized for the best playability and performance, mainly with your CPU processing power and each sample file’s quality.
Key Features:
-
- The models
Four different cello models are included in Solo Cello EXtended, each with a specific characteristic. You can pick from “Romantic Cello,” featuring a sensitive dynamic response and clear overall tone, “Modern Cello,” which has a more dark and profound timbre relative to old wooden construction, “British Cello,” and “German Cello.” - Phase alignment
In order to provide a consistent transient between each sample audio file, the entire collection was subject to a phase alignment process. This ensures that each dynamic layer has a seamless transition between notes and phrases, making the overall sound more realistic and humanized. - True Legato
One of the most important articulations in string instruments is legato. The easy flow of the notes in your phrase can help make the instrument sound more natural. Solo Cello EXtended uses a true legato algorithm that faithfully replicates the instrument’s acoustic resonance meticulously. - Large library
Solo Cello EXtended features a library of over 30,000 samples, with additional 38 articulations to be included in each. Add eight dynamic layers, and you’ll have the perfect recipe for a trustworthy virtual cello collection. - Dynamic Modes
The user design interface is very candid and clear, tailored to provide the closest experience possible related to the cello techniques. One of the best ways to customize this is through the “Dynamic Modes” included in Solo Cello EXtended: “Note-Head Designer,” “Key-Vibrato,” “Hot-Keys,” and a dedicated blend of articulation presets.
- The models
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.15 or higher (latest update) and Windows 10 (64-bit only and latest Service Pack required). It comes in VST, VST3, AAX, and AU plugin formats. Free Kontakt Player version 5.8.0 or higher is required.
Summary:
This is an example of a solid library showcasing a large number of sample files and well-designed articulations to provide the closest experience to an authentic cello sound. The beauty of Solo Cello EXtended lies in the multitude of nuances captured through the 30k+ samples, the multiple dynamic layers and specific articulations. In addition, the “Dynamic Modes” are very helpful in nailing the cello timbre even better.
5. Harmonic Subtones Emotional Cello
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The ultimate approach here is to virtually capture the full expression of a cello.
Orchestral instruments are notorious for their majestic and larger-than-life sounds. However, even when playing soloed, they can convey beautiful, rich tones that fit both audacious cinematic productions and pop hit songs, and Emotional Cello aims to deliver that result to your next production.
Key Features:
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- Contextual sampling
The “main philosophy” behind Emotional Cello is called “Contextual Sampling,” and it’s based on capturing each sample in an actual musical context so that the most natural aspects of the player’s technique are caught on the mic. Techniques like vibrato and legato become much more vivid with the help of this specific approach, which can be useful for more natural-sounding productions. - Articulations
There are over 1,000 articulations in Emotional Cello, all designed with a clever script that links each of the available options seamlessly, as organic as playing a real cello would be. This is best used when dealing with a specific style or genre. - Patches
Emotional Cello contains three master patches: “Emotional Cello,” “Sulponticello,” and “Harmonic Cello.” Each provides meaningful articulations that can be blended, altered, and saved to suit your needed performance style better. You can also use “Individual Patches,” which has other articulations like sustain and trills. - Playing styles
Aside from setting your timbre manually, you can interchangeably switch from various playing styles, ready for use. You can select “Fast Spiccato,” “Pizzicato,” “Delicate,” “Proud Vibrato,” “Pastorale,” “Tremolo,” and many more. - Ornament key switches
These unlikely clever key switches are nothing like what we normally see in other plugins and sample libraries: in essence, these are momentary and are susceptible to variation in the articulations you’re working with. This means that the key switches can be changed seamlessly, without permanent uses and providing more fluidness when playing your MIDI controller.
- Contextual sampling
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.15 or higher (latest update) and Windows 10 (64-bit only and latest Service Pack required). It comes in VST, VST3, AAX, and AU plugin formats. Free Kontakt Player version 6.2.2 or higher is required.
Summary:
The great attention to detail from Harmonic Subtones paid off for the excellent quality of Emotional Cello. This awesome library focuses on capturing the most accurate expression and translating that to virtual samples, materialized in their “Contextual Sampling” approach to capturing authentic music performances. The results are very natural and realistic, boasting expression and natural flow between each note played.
6. Insanity Samples Cello One (Kontakt Library)
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A great approach to bold songwriting with the cello.
Cello One is Insanity Samples’ take on a solo cello, capturing all the beautiful harmonics characteristic of the instrument. The simple interface helps get things straight, and the user can have total independence as to where to take the cello’s sound: you can create powerful phrases or craft gigantic sonorities by tweaking the parameters.
Key Features:
-
- Articulations
You can select between four different articulations: “True Legato,” “Polyphony,” “Staccato,” and “Pizzicato.” They all feature envelope control, boasting all four “ADSR” knobs for each articulation selected. - Legato types
For each articulation included, some further options are expanded at the main window. For instance, if you select “True Legato,” you can set between “Adaptative – Speed,” “Adaptative – Velo,” “Fixed – Fast,” and “Fixed – Slow.” - Simple interface
Similar libraries tend to be more complex in terms of design, but that’s not the case for Cello One. The user interface is very simple and minimalistic, with all available controls or configurations set on the main centre screen. The amazing sounds you can achieve are already there; all you need to do is tweak the values accordingly to get perfect timbres instantly. - Effects
You can choose to add some effects to your phrases, expanding even further your possible sonorities. Feel free to select options like “Distortion,” “Chorus,” “Delay,” and “Reverb,” with controls like “Tone” and “Feedback” available for each respective effect.
- Articulations
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.11 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). A full version of Kontakt version 5.8.1 or higher is required (it will not run in Kontakt Player!).
Summary:
A straightforward library that boasts character and personality. This is a nice way to describe Cello One, a collection dedicated to replicating a solo cello’s sonority. The controls are easy to follow and provide instant results, with the possibility to add effects on top of your sound to achieve even more audacious soundscapes. The articulations are basic and do their job very well, being a reliable touch to make it sound even more realistic.
7. 8Dio Studio Series: Deep Solo Cello (Kontakt Library)
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A masterful recording of an excellent musician playing a beautiful instrument.
8Dio is renowned for its sample libraries, ranging from multiple different instruments. This time, they bring the classic cello sound to reality with the Studio Series: Deep Solo Cello collection, featuring samples played by a real, professional musician with the best articulations available.
Key Features:
-
- Articulations
Everything depends on articulations when talking about sample libraries. They will provide the specific techniques and the most sounds to come out of a cello, and arguably they play the most important role here. For this reason, 8Dio included 88 of these articulations to be used, expanding the versatility of this virtual instrument significantly. - Samples
The sample files are the core element in any library, and it’s not different here. You can select from over 20,000 samples to nail down the perfect performance for your track or score, with multiple variations to be added on top of that. - Arcs
Deep Solo Cello offers a nice arc selection to be used in your cello part. They are expected to vary, resulting in different sounds explored in the instrument. There are 25 types of bowing arcs to choose from, with an added “Arc FX” section to expand the possible sonorities to come out of it even further. - Mic control
To nail the sound you’re looking for, it’s always useful to set the perfect microphone balance between the available options. Deep Solo Cello allows you to set the “Near” and “Ambient” microphones to your taste, determining which position or levelling for each model is more appropriate for your track. - Muted articulations
Aside from the most common articulations present in orchestral libraries, Deep Solo Cello offers some dedicated muted articulations as well. The “Con Sordino” articulations explored muted sounds with a bunch of short notes, crescendos, dynamic bowings, and even true legato.
- Articulations
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.11 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). A full version of Kontakt version 5.8.1 or higher is required (it will not run in Kontakt Player!).
Summary:
Just like other 8Dio products, Studio Series: Deep Solo Cello nails the awesome timbre variations of an instrument such as the cello. The best part about it doesn’t solely lie in the multitude of sample files: you can expect much more nuances by tweaking the mic positioning, selecting a specific bowing arc, or even exploring the various articulations included in the bundle. So be ready to explore a very versatile sonic tool with this sample library.
8. Embertone Blakus Cello (Kontakt Library)
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This library is the result of an awesome collaboration with a professional musician.
Embertone wanted to deliver the best possible cello library, and for that, they asked Blake Robinson, a renowned Australian cellist and composer, to play the cello in the most fruitful ways. The final result turned out to be massive, with harsh sounds and exquisite articulations pushed to their limits.
Key Features:
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- Full vibrato control
One of the most particularly characteristic articulations in stringed instruments is vibrato. This technique’s subtle nuances are enormous and add a human touch to your playing. You can expect a very authentic recreation of this effect in Blakus Cello. - Samples
The sample variety in Blakus Cello is great: feel free to use over 5,500 of them to craft your perfect phrase, a distinctive passage, or the powerful melodic line your track requires, without ever running out of inspiration. - ENSEMBLE mode
This mode is a collection of scripts and algorithms that uses a complex set of pitch shifts, panning, and round-robin adjustments to reproduce a faithful eight-piece cello ensemble. You can tweak parameters like “Ensemble Humanization” to get everything sounding more organic or make use of some “Randomize” elements to make the overall sound as human as possible. - Bow noises
As expected, all acoustic elements behind an instrument, such as the cello, interfere with the final sound result. This is why you can set the appropriate bow noise to your cello playing, reducing or leaving it be. In essence, this EQ profile isolates the bow resonances by specifying which frequencies should be removed from the equation. - CC Chooser
The dedicated window for setting any MIDI CC commands is a complete and reliable way to alter the values for seven distinct parameters: “Dynamics,” “Slur,” “Vibrato Style,” “Vibrato Speed,” “Vibrato Color,” Vibrato Amplitude,” and “Vibrato Pitch.” By customizing these values, you can set them to a key switch most suitable for your needs.
- Full vibrato control
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.7 or 10.8 (latest update) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only and the latest Service Pack required). It comes in VST and AU plugin formats. Free Kontakt Player version 5 or higher is required.
Summary:
Embertone wants to deliver a friendly user experience with Blakus Cello while offering the distinctive feature of having all notes played by a professional and renowned musician. The samples boast quality and expressiveness, with further adjustments that only increase its versatility towards any genre or particular use you may need to apply. The “ENSEMBLE Mode” is a nice highlight, offering multiple configurations to replicate an eight-piece ensemble, which can be useful in certain moments.
9. Have Audio Double Espresso Cello Textures (Kontakt Library)
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The ideal library for score composers searching for a unique, trustworthy sonic tool.
Sometimes, it’s awesome to rely on a sample library focused on a determined style. For example, suppose you’re a score composer that needs a reliable collection to get your cinematic productions just right. In that case, Double Espresso Cello Textures might be the best option for you.
Key Features:
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- Convolution reverb
Reverb is the perfect way to set the appropriate ambience for your instrument, recreating the optimal ambient reflections that should be perceived when playing the real instrument. To get that effect nailed even better, Have Audio decided to include a convolution reverb in Double Espresso Cello Textures. In essence, it deals with impulse responses to recreate a determined room size meticulously, thus offering a much more realistic sound result. - Cinematic Blend Effect
Materialized in the espresso cup located on the centre screen, the “Cinematic Blend Effect” combines varied samples to be used in a larger, cinematic setting. By tweaking this option, you can expect more fluid sounds that may blend easier with other instruments you have going on. - Delay
One of the sugar cubes is responsible for controlling the delay level (the one to the right side of the screen), while the leftmost coffee grain sets the feedback for it. By tweaking these controls accordingly, you can have the perfect reflections that may sweeten your phrases significantly. - Distortion
The remaining coffee grain solely controls the distortion in most cases – or the phaser if Friction.nki is selected. This is a wonderful way to have aggressive, dramatic tones coming out of the cello without increasing volume or the overall dynamics. - Modes
Double Espresso Cello Textures works in three different modes: you can switch between the “Acoustic” mode, which offers a classic sonority, the “Dystopian” mode that takes things to the next level in terms of experimentation, and the “Electronic” mode, boasting modern elements to add in your final sound.
- Convolution reverb
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.11 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). A full version of Kontakt version 5.6.8 or higher is required (it will not run in Kontakt Player!).
Summary:
Aimed to nail the best cinematic elements, Double Espresso Cello Textures is a nice bundle of samples and parameters that take the cello sound to the next level. Surely, you can keep things the “normal” way and use the cello as expected, but the fun part is to adventure into different sonorities and bold soundscapes, ideal for an ambitious cinematic production that needs an everlasting sonic impact.
10. Virharmonic Bohemian Cello
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Most libraries replicate the instrument, but this one aims to recreate the player’s experience.
The great catch about Virharmonic’s Bohemian Cello is the ability to think and act as the performer itself instead of focusing on the instrument, delivering an ultimate organic performance in a virtual format. You don’t need to master complicated MIDI patches or comprehensive algorithms, just feel the music as it is and play as naturally as possible.
Key Features:
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- Detailed samples
Each sample file was captured with the appropriate passion and detail, reflecting on the high-quality present in the final result. All files were recorded with intense interval variations, multiple dynamics, and at various speeds to make a faithful rendition of what an actual cello player would sound like in real life. - Dynamic layers
To add the perfect balance between notes and phrases, the dynamic layers are present further to increment the organic aspect of this virtual library. Bohemian Cello has three dynamic layers of diminuendos, going up to six seconds in length and including marvellous endings to make the entire idea sound as realistic as possible. - Transitions
Further, two dedicated dynamic layers are also within Bohemian Cello. You can have two crescendo layers, which are excellent for making transitions between phrases or elements sound more natural. You also get two round-robin repetitions per bow on each arc mode. - Articulations
Among the most common options, like “Marcatos,” “Staccatos,” and “Pizzicatos,” you can also explore more nuances about the bowing arcs used. You can select the arc’s model and where exactly it’s acting upon the cello strings. This increases the faithfulness of the final sound. - Phrase legatos
The legatos are essential to make each phrase sound good independently of the speed set. You can tweak the bow directions, whether you’re using your fingers or a bow, add portamento, edit runs, and create playable trills.
- Detailed samples
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.9 to 12 (64-bit only) and Windows 8 to 10 (64-bit only). The Free UVI WORKSTATION version 3.0.5 or higher is required.
Summary:
The audacious perspective of Bohemian Cello aims to take the usual sampling experience to another view due to the player’s perspective being central here. As a result, the library delivers high-quality results that can be meticulously tweaked, housed in a somewhat wordy user interface. Aside from using specific software to load the samples, it’s worth considering if you need multiple variations regarding bowing arc types and specific articulations.
11. Cinesamples Tina Guo Acoustic Cello (Kontakt Library)
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This signature library is a nice option to get awesome cello phrases in no time.
Tina Guo is a Chinese-born American cellist with an extensive musical career. She covered multiple genres and styles, performing with theatrical elements and elaborated figurines to deliver the best performance possible. Now it’s up to you to further expand Tina’s abilities with this excellent sample library focused on the cello.
Key Features:
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- Infinite bow
Present in all Cinesamples products, the “Infinite Bow” aims to deliver a unique sonority: with this function enabled, you can produce extended bowing sounds, almost as if the arc bow itself was infinite in size. You can even use your sustain pedal in your MIDI controller to explore this feature. - Signature sound
It’s uncommon to see a signature plugin or library focused on recreating a specific artist’s sonority. Tina Guo has worked with big names like Hans Zimmer, and such iconic playability is translated into this excellent library. Feel free to incorporate Tina’s techniques and do even more with that, thanks to a handful of clever algorithms included. - Unique instrument
Tina Guo used an 1800 Gand & Bernadel cello to capture the cello’s nuances better. The old age of this instrument is the perfect recipe for a wooden, solid timbre that resonates with the cello’s reputation very easily, boasting sound character and personality in each note played. - Legato engine
As the name implies, Tina Guo Acoustic Cello Legato features a unique legato engine. This is associated with the best dynamic aspects of the instrument, and the original resonances of the vintage cello used are translated virtually to increase your composition’s dynamic soundscape significantly.
- Infinite bow
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.11 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It runs in both Free Kontakt Player and Kontakt version 5.8.1 or higher.
Summary:
It’s hard to capture an instrument’s sonic essence virtually, let alone translate an artist’s style into the software. Somehow, Cinesamples managed to nail that nicely, with intuitive controls and a welcoming interface. All best elements about her playing style are included, with possible modern variations – like the “Infinite Bow” – also added.
12. VSL Synchron Strings Pro
Vienna Symphonic Library is responsible for some of the best sampled orchestral instruments, and Synchron is certainly one of them.
Synchron Strings Pro is a string library recorded in Synchron Stage, Vienna, and it features a massive arsenal of articulations with unparalleled sampling and programming. The result is a highly natural-sounding string library, capable of simple pad-like long notes or energetic runs alike.
I must note that due to the sheer size of the library (over 122 GB for the smaller version), it might be overkill if you are looking for a backing section for pop music or so.
However, if you enjoy composing classical music, Synchron Strings Pro stands as one of the best strings plugins that money can buy.
Key Features:
- Natural Articulations
The instrument features an extensive collection of articulations and expressions, including standard ones like legato, staccato, spiccato, tremolo, etc., and special ones like harmonics, col legno, flautando, and legato agile, which is ideal for fast, bouncing runs. Similarly, each articulation has multiple types, expressions, and release options. So, for example, you could have a legato with vibrato played in pianissimo with a soft release. - Multiple Mic Positions
The Synchron Strings Pro was recorded using 8 microphones. And the library has a Standard and a Full version, where the latter has all 8 microphones available for adjustments. The standard version has a close mic, mid mic (front row), room mic (L/R), and room mic (centre). - Immersive
Let’s continue with the previous feature. The Full version employs four more mics, including a back mic (second row), the main surround mic, a high stereo mic, and a high surround mic. They are primarily for creating immersive surround sound, including 2.0.2 (stereo with height audio) and 5.1.4 (Aura 3D or Dolby Atmos setup). - Presets
The library features many presets that include per-ensemble preset, mapped tutti, and octave combinations employing two ensembles for a fast workflow. Most presets feature multiple articulations that you can switch on the fly and polyphonic legato.
Compatibility:
This library is available for Windows 8.1 or higher and macOS 10.10.5 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2, VST 3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
Synchron Strings Pro is an inspiring wealth of sound with natural note transitions and expression. It does require a moderately powerful computer to perform smoothly, but it’s to be expected for instruments of this detail. I would highly recommend it if you work on classical music.
The only downside is that you will require an eLicenser USB protection device, even for the demo. You can purchase one from Vienna or use an existing eLicenser key, such as from Steinberg or Arturia. Finally, the installation process can be tedious for someone, but it’s worth it in the end.
6 Best Free Cello Plugins 2022
1. Spitfire Audio Amplified Cello Quartet (Plugin)
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Exquisite cello sounds for free.
Can you imagine running a cello into different effects pedals and… a guitar amplifier? Well, if that’s what you always wanted, then Spitfire Audio made things easier for you. So be ready to discover the awesome sounds and sonic variations inside Amplified Cello Quartet.
Key Features:
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- Recorded by professionals
As with all Spitfire Audio products, this library received excellent treatment to provide bold, innovative sounds for anyone to use. The masterminds behind this project were Christian Henson and Harry Wilson, delivering the best aspects of a cello quartet into easy-to-use software. - Simple to use
The same fluidness and clean looks in Amplified Cello Quartet are also present in other LABS products. You can expect a very fluid workflow that won’t weigh too much in your CPU consumption while boasting great sounds in every parameter selection you make.
- Recorded by professionals
Compatibility:
The library is available for macOS 10.10 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST 2, VST 3, AU, and AAX plugin formats.
Summary:
The freebies from Spitfire Audio tend to be very trustworthy and reliable sonic tools to work with, and the best part is that they offer new perspectives to common instruments. Cellos are not that common, but it’s very hard to see modern-sounding options in this instrument field, and Amplified Cello Quarter nails in that aspect.
2. Spitfire Audio LABS Cello Moods (Plugin)
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If you need further modern sounds in a cello sound, you got it.
LABS is Spitfire Audio’s attempt to provide meaningful, nice-sounding sample libraries for free. This expands the accessibility towards high-quality samples and plugins while introducing new, modern concepts to producers worldwide. Cello Moods is relevant because it focuses on a collection of performances from Alice Allen.
Key Features:
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- Four modes
You can nail the perfect sonority with the help of four modes to convey the most varied emotions in your track: you can use “Awe,” “Melancholy,” “Tension,” and “Wistfulness” to better tame the improvisational skills of Alice Allen’s characteristic sound. - Significant style
Alice Allen is renowned for her innovative approach to cello playing, derived from her passion for Scottish traditional music. This is excellent to bring new, exquisite techniques into your next production, with assured virtuosity and clear sound quality in each played note.
- Four modes
Compatibility:
The library is available for macOS 10.10 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST 2, VST 3, AU, and AAX plugin formats.
Summary:
As with other LABS libraries, Cello Moods has a characteristic sonority that may be the perfect solution for you or just be another virtual instrument variation. If you’re open to trying it out, be aware that the exquisite sounds may provide the perfect sauce for your track to reach new heights.
3. VSTBuzz pocketBlakus Cello
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A reliable freeware to get the best cello sounds without effort.
Australian composer Blake Robinson created this sample library to offer a freeware alternative to a virtual cello instrument, with exquisite attention to every resonance.
Key Features:
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- Maximum quality
The samples contained in pocketBlakus Cello were recorded using a Rode K2 microphone, providing the necessary quality to capture every subtle nuance of the instrument. - Two patches
You can alternate between two patches to get the most out of this virtual instrument: the “Legato” patch provides long sustained notes, while the “Spiccato” patch is ideal for short, quick notes. - Add your effects
The entire library was recorded in a dry setting to allow users to add whatever effects to the cello in the most natural way possible. Feel free to add the appropriate reverb, the perfect delay setting, or even a bold move like distortion or overdrive on top of it.
- Maximum quality
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.11 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). A full version of Kontakt version 5.8.1 or higher is required (it will not run in Kontakt Player!).
Summary:
There are nice elements about pocketBlakus Cello, and they’re all very straightforward in fulfilling what they promise. You can expect nice sounds and a good simulation of a real cello inside this plugin, but unfortunately, you won’t make use of any of that if you don’t own the full Kontakt player.
4. Versilian Chamber Orchestra 2
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Delivering character and personality, this library is a great resource for orchestral sounds.
Versilian Studios wanted to create a sample library that should be relative to real-life expectations. Most products claim to achieve the “real” sound, independent of the instrument aimed to be replicated, but that’s exactly what the team didn’t want to do. So, eventually, VSCO 2 was born to go against that mentality.
Key Features:
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- Samples
Among the many instruments included in this orchestral ensemble, you can rely on over 1,900 sample files distributed among multiple categories, including the cello. Additional 1,200 files were added to expand the instrument’s versatility further. - Articulations
The freeware version features the basic articulations present in orchestral instruments, but that’s more than necessary to get things going. You can expect common options, like “Legato,” “Staccato,” and “Pizzicato.” - Pan control
A dedicated “Pan” knob will set the accurate panning for your sound. When dealing with ensembles, this is essential to establish the proper sonic environment and stereo imaging of the instruments included.
- Samples
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.11 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in .XRNI, SampleTank, and .WAV sample formats.
Summary:
This is one of the best freeware options to explore, thanks to Versilian Studios’ reputation for bringing nice orchestral libraries to life. However, if you’re looking for a library that specifically deals with cellos, this is not a good option because it comes with 18 other instruments aside from it, which can be too much for a specific use.
5. ProjectSAM The Free Orchestra (Kontakt Library)
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For free, you can use a little more than 1GB of excellent cinematic samples.
ProjectSAM’s free collection contains the 12 original presets from its Symphobia 4 library (plus two new ones!), aside from a library of layered presets that repurpose current sounds to create new, intuitive instrument layers.
Key Features:
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- Light interface
All controls you’ll require are on the primary screen, without different menus, panels, or controls to distract you. Aside from standard parameters like envelope and reverb, you get the “Quick Equalization,” “Octaver,” and “Reverse Sample” choices, which increase the versatility of the cello’s sound. - “Bonus” modes
Each preset will include a “Bonus” knob that will give a special effect. It changes depending on the preset you’re using and is situated at the bottom row of three dials, first from left to right. You can have settings like “Boom” (to amplify low frequencies) and “Vowel” (to recreate a kind of formant effect) to make your cello’s tone sound distinctive, but this is entirely dependent on the preset you select. - Many instruments
Aside from the multiple instrument options available, you can choose between cellos and contrabasses seamlessly. There are violins, woodwinds, and horns as well, so it may be useful to deliver a small orchestral ensemble with a focus on the cello, for instance.
- Light interface
Compatibility:
This plugin is available for macOS 10.12 or higher (latest update) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only and latest Service Pack required). It works in Kontakt Player or Kontakt, version 6.2.1 or higher is required.
Summary:
A fantastic assortment of free orchestrated instruments, especially the cello. This collection is a good place to start if you’re new to writing scores and soundtracks because the controls are simple to use, and the total library size is modest. In addition, the audio quality is outstanding, and all presets sound fantastic on their own.
6. DSK Strings
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This lightweight option might be ideal for beginner producers and composers.
DSK is famous for offering freeware options for famous instruments, and the collection is expanded with the addition of the Strings plugin.
Key Features:
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- Two layers
There are two dynamic layers included in DSK Strings, offering a more vivid and organic detail to every note played. There are also 22 waveforms in total included. - Detuner
If you need to use more octaves or even detune your melody, this plugin can easily do so in the “Octave” section, with a “Fine” knob and a numeral selection of the semitones intended to be altered. - Effects
It’s always nice when companies include effects into the plugin so that you can make every adjustment right inside the software’s window. You can choose between flanger, delay, and reverb.
- Two layers
Compatibility:
The plugin is available for Windows XP or higher (32-bit only). It comes in VST 2 plugin format.
Summary:
As always, DSK’s plugins tend to be ideal for beginners in production or composition. The simplicity behind its controls and samples is favourable for inexperienced users, and this may be irrelevant for more professional uses. The worst part, beyond the sound quality of each sample, is that it’s Windows exclusive and only runs in 32-bits.
Conclusion
Orchestral instruments tend to be very hard to recreate virtually. However, thanks to the resonance imposed by these instruments, the ideal scenario for their performances is live, in real life. Be it in a studio room or on a concert stage, everyone listening to their overtones will be delighted, independent of the microphones used or the effects added.
Specifically, the cello was the main character in this week’s article. In multiple situations and styles, the big, imponent instrument is widely used among score composers, music producers, and sound engineers worldwide. So, in order to present the ideal library for you, we’ve collected some nice options for you to choose from.
Among the best libraries, Native Instruments Stradivari Cello excels in capturing the nuances of an authentic Stradivari cello, iconic for its building quality and perfect sonority. Other cool options are Audio Modeling SWAM Cello V3, which relies solely on physical modelling instead of using sample files, and Chris Hein Solo Cello EXtended, which offers the same results as the previous two but with significant lower CPU consumption.
Cinematic productions always require massive sounds, and the cello is constantly present. For specific score composition uses, we recommend Insanity Samples Cello One and Have Audio Double Espresso Cello, both tailored to get the best cinematic sounds from the least tweaking from the parameters and controls.
Finally, the freebies section offers some nice choices, but Spitfire Audio Amplified Cello Quartet and Spitfire Audio LABS Cello Moods hit the spotlight by providing immersive and gigantic sounds with a modern, bold approach to it. These are ideal for modern producers looking for different tones that can be applied in modern settings.
As always, it’s nice to try the demos before buying the final products. Be aware of what you need, and the perfect plugin will come to you.
See you next time!
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