Special Bows 2 is an extension of Berlin Strings, offering a collection of unconventional string articulations and playing styles designed to expand your creative palette. Featuring 5 cellos and 4 double basses, this library is ideal for adding unique textures to your compositions, from the subtle warmth of sul tasto to the icy, haunting quality of sul ponticello. Recorded at the renowned Teldex Scoring Stage in Berlin, it captures these rare techniques in a vivid, realistic soundstage with multiple mic positions for a comprehensive, spatially coherent experience.
Key Features
Unconventional Articulations
- Sul Tasto (flautando legato) – Soft, warm tones achieved by bowing over the fingerboard.
- Sul Ponticello (legato) – Eerie, brittle tones produced by bowing near the bridge.
- Flageolet (harmonics) – Glassy, high-pitched overtones created by lightly touching the string.
- Col Legno – Dry, percussive sounds made by striking the strings with the back of the bow.
Detailed Instrumentation
- 5 Cellos and 4 Double Basses recorded in their traditional orchestral positions.
- Extensive multiple mic positions (Decca Tree, AB omni, spot mics, and surround) for a highly immersive soundstage.
Compatibility & System Requirements
- Works with Kontakt 5.5.1 full version (upgrades available for SINE support).
- 24-bit / 48 kHz patches for high-quality sound.
- Mac: macOS 10.13, i5, 4 GB RAM (16+ GB recommended).
- Windows: Windows 10, Intel Core i5 or similar. (Windows 7 not officially supported).
- Interfaces: VST, AU
Applications
- Film & TV Composers – Add expressive nuance and unusual textures to your scores.
- Game Sound Designers – Use rare string techniques to create unique atmospheres.
- Contemporary Composers – Experiment with extended techniques for innovative sound exploration.
Perfect Pairings
- Special Bows 1 – Combine with this first volume for even more striking results.
- Berlin Strings – Pair with the core collection for a comprehensive, dynamic string ensemble.
- Symphonic Strings – Enhance your strings with new colors and depth.
Special Bows 2 adds innovative string articulations and rare playing techniques to your musical toolkit, providing a new dimension to your string arrangements. Recorded with precision at Teldex Scoring Stage, this library opens up possibilities for adding unique tonal colors, atmospheric textures, and unexpected expressive effects—perfect for creating soundtracks, experimental compositions, and immersive game audio.
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