These instruments are as good as my very best and most expensive sample libraries for the desktop, (and I have the very best there is). Not only that, thanks to AudioModeling’s excellent physical modeling approach and MPE, these instruments are playable like a real instrument. Amazing. After 30 years of dealing with the limitations of sample libraries, for $20 you can buy a VI that rivals the very best that even the bespoke industry has to offer. And, oh boy, are these instruments loads of fun to play. I can’t can’t stop playing the instruments I’ve purchased so far, (Flugelhorn, Cello, Piccolo Trumpet, and others...).
The only con, and believe me, this is just a minor gripe because, fortunately I have years of experience mixing non-SITU instruments, but for consistencies sake, I’d like to see AudioModeling add processed convolution based SITU presets, with different rooms, stages, and halls to choose from. That would make these instruments unbeatable. Using convolution as a means to EQ, dampen, and stage is as realistic these days as physical modeling. VSL has proven that with their Synchron Series. Imagine a preset that placed all of the horns in SITU in a jazz hall. Instant big band! Of course technologies like MIR, Virtual Sound Stage and good old fashion mixing skills can accomplish this just fine, but having this ability out of the box would knock these instruments out of the park so far I’d have trouble justifying sample libraries in my template for anything other than “specialty” libraries such as Spitfire’s Swarm series or VSL’s Big Bang series, (which I love too).
Some of the controllers in the macOS versions are locked down in the iOS versions, which isn’t necessary, but AudioModeling didn’t lock down anything that’s a deal killer, and the price difference more that makes up for it. I’d like a path to upgrade to the full version on an iPad because I’m using an M1 iPad Pro. And I’d happily pay for it.
Anyway, the bottom line is these instruments are pro-level like the Moog synths are. Some advice if you’re new to physical modeling VIs. Try and get a MPE based controller if possible. With a Roli or some other 3 to 5 dimensional type controller these SWAM based instruments COME TO LIFE!
But if that’s not possible, make sure you at least get 2 or 3 controllers, such as an expression pedal, a mod wheel, an iOS based controller, a wind controller, or something. For the full musical experience you’re going to want to control dynamics, vibrato amount, vibrato speed, and a handful of other expressive and realistic, and instrument specific sounds and articulations.
Be warned. You may find yourself addicted to playing and practicing again. But that’s a good thing, right?
It’s really that good.
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