From
Loomer who brought us Aspect (
previously posted here)
"
String is a virtual instrument that emulates the beautiful sound of the polyphonic string synthesizer.
Divide-Down Oscillators
String's authentic tone comes from its accurate emulation of the divide-down oscillator technology behind the lush ensemble synths of the 70s.
Dual Layer
String has two individual sound generating Layers, each housing three phase-locked oscillator stops at 16', 8' and 4' ranges for Layer 1, and 8', 4', and 2' ranges for Layer 2. The relative volumes of each stop can be finely tuned to produce an enormous range of timbres. Both Layers have controllable note split points. Layers can be placed so that each is controlled by a specific range on the keyboard, or even overlapped and stacked together.
Five Voicing Modes
Each Layer has its own Voicing Mode from a choice of Monophonic with Last, Low, and High Note Priorities, Paraphonic, and Polyphonic. In Polyphonic mode each voice has its own Attack/Release amplitude modulation envelope. In Paraphonic mode all voices within a Layer share a single monophonic Attack/Release amplitude envelope. The Monophonic Modes produce a single voice, which can be either the Lowest, Highest, or Last note pressed.
Five Filter Types
Layers can be further shaped using the monophonic Filter section. This section has several Filter types; a Highpass / Lowpass pair of filters in series, an analogue resonant filter in either Lowpass, Bandpass, or Highpass modes with various modulation options (including Channel Aftertouch), and a 9-Band EQ. The Filter section can also be switched off altogether.
Flexible Routing
Both Layers can be individually routed into the Effects section. Layer 1 can also optionally be routed directly into Layer 2's Filter to produce serial Filter tones.
Effects
String's Chorus section is modeled on the bucket-brigade device that characterized the sound of the classic ensemble synths. Select from two different Chorus algorithms for either an authentic Ensemble timbre (Type 1), or a more modern, denser sound. (Type 2). A built-in stereo Phaser can be used to add movement, depth, and interest to String timbres. The Effects section is rounded off with two mono bucket-brigade device delay units with independent time and feedback settings, which can be tempo synced, and linked together into a single stereo delay.
Full MIDI Learn
All controls can be easily mapped to a hardware controller using the simplified MIDI Learn feature.
With optimised audio algorithms that won't overload your processor, rock-solid stability, and easy integration with any MIDI hardware controller, String is ideal for live work. With a simple and intuitive interface, flexible Bank and Program management, and total parameter automation, String fits right into your studio environment.
String is available for Mac OS X v 10.4 and above, Windows XP and above, and Linux, in Audio Unit, VST plugin, RTAS for Pro Tools 7 and above, and Standalone application formats.
An evaluation is available for free download, with the following limitations:
* User created Program and Bank configurations can be saved, but not loaded.
* Output will be periodically interrupted, approximately every 30 seconds, by a short moment of silence.
* Audio output will stop after 30 minutes of continuous use. The only way to continue using String is to restart the application.
Purchasing a licence will remove these evaluation limitations.
A licence entitles you to lifetime free updates for String."
Demos and more at the
Loomer String site.
Update via Mike of Spatial Creations in the comments: "I've conquered the K-5. I used one in school to write a piece of Avant Garde Music.
I did all the sound design and used two K-5s with Performer for the Mac. This was in 1992. Let me know what you think..."
