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Orchestral Swarm by Spitfire Audio Review

2025

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Orchestral Swarm by Spitfire Audio Review

Spitfire Audio is a hyped company, they do however also have excellent sounding libraries for Kontakt. One is Orchestral Swarm which is reviewed today it includes numerous string, brass, and woodwind ensembles recorded and mixed as a section, some mixed instrument recordings are included.

Orchestral Swarm is a powerful orchestra library in terms of sound quality, usability, and versatility.

Kontakt users are spoiled when it comes to good ensemble recordings. Many developers have recorded ensembles in the past with different approaches, some are very inexpensive or even free. Spitfire Audio has different approaches to ensemble recordings, they release different types of ensembles with varying price points.

Orchestral Swarm Horns
Orchestral Swarm by Spitfire Audio Review

Orchestral Swarm Installation

You download and if needed update the library through spitfire’s download tool. Around 60GB of Disk Space is required when you install the library. It works with Kontakt or Kontakt Player 5.6.8 or higher software in your DAW.

Orchestral Swarm Sound

Spitfire did release in the past other swarm libraries, including Mandolin Swarm, HARP SWARM, and Marimba Swarm. Like the other swarm libraries, this library is mainly for film and television composers – and works for certain producers as well. I produce a record that was using this library.

Orchestral Swarm performs a swarm effect similar to the buzzing of a swarm of beetles or waves in the ocean – instead of nature producing the sounds it is all created by orchestral instruments. It gives you a wider repertoire for all kinds of cinematic and artistic styles.

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Orchestral Swarm is very symphonic, with different sections of the orchestra playing swarm articulations. You can think of it as an instrument – like for example a horn section. This library works great when you want to combine your orchestral with modern ensemble sounds, electronic ensemble sounds, or any other sort of sound that doesn’t fit the traditional orchestra. For example, combining Orchestral Swarm with a bass drop or a dub step drop in your song can lead to interesting results.

Expression

The expression behind a swarm is very delicate and the attack of each note must be carefully adjusted. Spitfire has done an excellent job when it comes to this type of performance. The expression is quite musical and a very good balance is achieved between the envelope of each swarm part.

Spitfire included a “performance mode” that enables you to play back more articulations with just one single attack per note. This does have an effect on expression, velocity response, and naturalness. If you want to experience this library as soon as possible I recommend you to use the performance mode.

Sound Quality

It is one of Spitfire’s best ensemble recordings, there are a few other string ensembles that come close but Orchestral Swarm takes the trophy home. The quality of this library is still amazing after a couple of years, and users expect a lot from Spitfire when it comes to ensemble work.

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Spitfire produced a phrase library that is playable, included are Strings, Woods, Horns, Bones & Tubas, and Brass. There are many articulations available for you. Using this library I was very impressed and touched by the waves and swells included.

Orchestral Swarm by Spitfire Audio
Orchestral Swarm by Spitfire Audio

Overall this library has many applications, besides including it in your score you could also see this as a tool to an intuitive, fast and easy approach to create movement in your score. There are some libraries out which can give you the vibe this one can produce. These are products from Heavyocity which you need to look as well like Heavyocity NOVO Modern StringsIntimate Textures Novo Pack 1, and NOVO PACK 02 – Rhythmic Textures. Or even the different EVOs or Symphonic Strings Evolutions from Spitfire Audio. The library works also well with Sound Dust different products, Gothic Instruments DRONAR Live Strings and lets not forget Thill from NI.

Orchestral Swarm Arp Ostinatum
Orchestral Swarm Arp or Ostinatum

Spitfire included an arp function, they call it Ostinatum. You can create a pattern in a sequencer and triggers different keys. It supports up to eight patterns, there are not presets which is uncommon and missing. It works on short articulations only.

User interface & Usability

Spitfire Audio has found a standard UI that while it was slightly updated is used across all products, as you may have some spitfire products in your library you will feel right at home, if you are new to Spitfire Audio products and this is the first time you use their UI you learning curve will be ok and you will appreciate the flexibility and support from it.

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Orchestral Swarm UI

Documentation

Spitfire always delivers when it comes to documenting their libraries. You can access all of the necessary information you need right in Kontakt’s interface, which is great for workflow and finding your way around the library quickly.

Conclusion

Orchestral Swarm by Spitfire Audio is an excellent library that provides users with a wide range of articulations. The sound quality is top-notch and the expression is very musical. The ensemble work is one of the best I have heard, and the Ostinatum arp function is a great addition. The only downside is that there are no presets available for the arp function. Overall, Orchestral Swarm is an amazing library that any composer would love to have in their arsenal.

Spitfire Audio did release an entire collection of Swarm libraries in the past and they sound great. Spitfire Audio has a lot to offer in the orchestral library category, and their prices are sometimes very affordable when you purchase several libraries from them at once. I recently had the chance to dive deeper into their catalog and was blown away by the quality and depth of their sounds. The review of aperture on the StrongMocha website also gave me a great insight into the versatility and creativity that Spitfire Audio brings to the table. Overall, I highly recommend checking out Spitfire Audio if you’re in the market for top-notch orchestral libraries.

Rating:  Five out of five stars

Orchestral Swarm is in line with other Spitfire Audio suitable lush and moving Orchestra libraries. Orchestral Swarm allows you to play a mare of musical vibes with the unique techniques based on Spitfire’s SWARM technology. It will find many applications in various music genres and sits well in the background in underscore or your main score.

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Orchestral Swarm by Spitfire Audio Review
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Guitar

Review of FINK – SIGNATURES: A Definitive Acoustic Guitar Toolkit with Signature Sound

2025

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There’s something about the sound of an acoustic guitar that just speaks to our soul. Whether it’s a delicate fingerstyle piece or a hard-hitting bluegrass jam, the acoustic guitar always finds a way to touch our hearts. In this review, we’ll be taking a closer look at FINK – SIGNATURES: A Definitive Acoustic Guitar Toolkit with Signature Sound.

Review of FINK – SIGNATURES: A Definitive Acoustic Guitar Toolkit with Signature Sound

FINK’s SIGNATURES library is a hefty (8.83GB) collection of beautiful guitar tones, designed to breathe emotive Finkness into our music, including sweet vocals.

The library includes a range of different guitars, from acoustics to electrics, each with its own unique sound. There are also a number of different amp models to choose from, allowing you to get the perfect tone for your track.

With so many different options available, you’re sure to find the perfect sound for your next project. If you’re looking for a way to add some extra emotion to your music, be sure to check out FINK’s SIGNATURES library. This library is full of character and sonic depth and offers a range of classic and signature playing styles.

Review of FINK SIGNATURES A Definitive Acoustic Guitar Toolkit with Signature Sound smc0500 cinemascope
Review of FINK – SIGNATURES A Definitive Acoustic Guitar Toolkit with Signature Sound

Acoustic Guitars Toolkit

This toolkit has been carefully curated to inspire both composers and songwriters, guitarists and non-guitarists alike. It is an instantly playable collection that lends itself to a range of compositions, from intimate indie scores to acoustic pop tracks, and beyond.

The aim of this toolkit is to provide a starting point for your creativity, with a selection of high-quality sounds that can be used in a variety of ways. We hope that you will find it to be a valuable resource and that it will help you to create beautiful music. Thank you for choosing this toolkit.

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Acoustic guitars have long been a staple of popular music, and their unique sound has made them one of the most versatile and beloved instruments. Creativity and passion are at the heart of every great performance, but having the right tools can make all the difference.

Signatures is a new acoustic guitar library that captures the instrument’s essential character and sonic depth. Three distinctive guitars offer a range of classic and signature playing styles, from delicate to punchy.

The library also includes a variety of guitar-based percussive loops and hits, soothing vocals, and contemplative pads. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of emotion to your music or create something truly unique, Signatures is an invaluable toolkit for any guitarist or producer.

From delicate arpeggios to cascading delay-soaked licks, the Fink Soundbank for Helix will help you add a new dimension to your sound. These emotive sounds are complemented by a range of guitar-based percussive tempo-synced loops and hits, soothing vocals, and versatile pads.

Review of FINK SIGNATURES A Definitive Acoustic Guitar Toolkit with Signature Sound Fink JRS Studio Selection 6
Review of FINK – SIGNATURES A Definitive Acoustic Guitar Toolkit with Signature Sound

Made in collaboration with award-winning producer, composer and songwriter Fin Greenall, aka Fink, this toolkit has been carefully curated to inspire both composers and songwriters, guitarists and non-guitarists. So whether you’re looking for that perfect hook or just wanting to add some atmosphere to your tracks, the Fink Soundbank is sure to have something for you.

FINK – SIGNATURES is an extremely well-crafted and versatile library that offers a great value for the price. The sounds are detailed and have a very high quality, making them ideal for use in professional productions.

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Review of FINK SIGNATURES UI A Definitive Acoustic Guitar Toolkit with Signature Sound
Review of FINK – SIGNATURES: A Definitive Acoustic Guitar Toolkit with Signature Sound

Acoustic Guitar Merges Into Signature Sound

Acoustic guitar is one of the most popular instruments in the world, and for good reason. Its versatility and rich, full sound make it perfect for a wide range of genres, from folk to rock to country. However, capturing its complexities in a sample library can be difficult. Signatures is a new acoustic guitar toolkit that aims to provide users with the most realistic and detailed sound possible.

The library includes three distinctively different guitars, each recorded in microscopic detail. From delicate plucked notes to punchy muted strums, Signatures offers a wide range of classic and signature playing styles. In addition, the library also includes a wealth of one-shots, harmonics, and other special effects. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, Signatures is an essential tool for anyone looking to add the perfect acoustic guitar sound to their tracks.

These emotive sounds are complemented by a range of guitar-based percussive tempo-synced loops and hits, soothing vocals, and contemplative pads.

Made in collaboration and performed by producer, composer and songwriter Fink, this toolkit has been carefully curated to inspire both composers and songwriters, guitarists and non-guitarists alike — an instantly playable collection that lends itself to a range of compositions, from intimate indie scores to acoustic pop tracks, and beyond. The result is a lush sonic palette that will bring new life to your music.

In addition, the library is extremely easy to use and comes with a wide range of presets that make it simple to get started. Overall, FINK – SIGNATURES is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality sound library that won’t break the bank.

Review of FINK SIGNATURES
Review of FINK – SIGNATURES: A Definitive Acoustic Guitar Toolkit with Signature Sound

About FINK

Fin Greenall started as a DJ and producer before developing his signature guitar-based folk and blues inspired sound. Growing up in Bristol’s thriving ‘90s music scene, Greenall signed to legendary label Kickin’ Records and subsequently with Ninja Tune, releasing the critically acclaimed record Fresh Produce, and DJing worldwide.

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FINK

A renowned guitarist, producer, songwriter and artist, Fink has been an in-demand collaborator for various established artists, including writing and recording Amy Winehouse’s earliest demos, as heard on her posthumous record, Lioness. Fink’s Sort of Revolution also featured a collaboration with John Legend on the track Maker, with Fink having co-written two tracks on Legend’s album Evolver, leading to three prestigious BMI awards.

Fink has penned seven critically-acclaimed studio albums, leading to numerous film and advertisement placements, as well as extensive world tours. His record Perfect Darkness (2011) included Yesterday Was Hard On All Of Us, with a live version of the track featuring in the Oscar-nominated film, Selma.

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Review of FINK SIGNATURES A Definitive Acoustic Guitar Toolkit with Signature Sound Fink JRS Studio Selection 31
Review of FINK – SIGNATURES A Definitive Acoustic Guitar Toolkit with Signature Sound

Warm Shadow was later prominently featured in The Walking Dead, with Justin Vernon & Colin Stetson teaming up to remix the track, resulting in a collaboration with Colin Stetson on blues side project Sunday Night Blues Club, Vol. 1. The studio album Hard Believer included the hit Looking Too Closely, which has over 30 licences to TV and film and over 100 million streams.

2017 marked the beginning of Fink’s collaboration with renowned producer Flood, culminating in the release of both his blues side project and studio albums Resurgam (2017) and Bloom Innocent (2019). After putting out his acoustic best-of record It Isn’t Until It Is, 2022 sees Fink’s first foray into film scoring with production work on a major gaming soundtrack.

Conclusion

FINK – SIGNATURES is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality sound library that won’t break the bank. The library includes three distinctively different guitars, each recorded in microscopic detail.

From delicate plucked notes to punchy muted strums, Signatures offers a wide range of classic and signature playing styles. In addition, the library is easy to use and comes with a wide range of presets that make it simple to get started. If you’re looking for an acoustic guitar sound that will add new life to your music, FINK – SIGNATURES is the perfect toolkit for you.

Fink is a true master of the acoustic guitar, and this is on full display in his live performance at JRS recording studio. He effortlessly switches between three different guitars, each with its own distinct sound, and his playing is captured in stunning detail.

Every note is clear and precise, and the range of styles he employs is simply breathtaking. From delicate to punchy, his playing is always precise and emotive. The addition of his soothing vocals and contemplative pads create a truly captivating experience that is sure to please any fan of acoustic guitar music.

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Review of FINK – SIGNATURES

FINK’s SIGNATURES library is a hefty (8.83GB) collection of beautiful guitar tones, designed to breathe emotive Finkness into our music, including sweet vocals.
The library includes a range of different guitars, from acoustics to electrics, each with its own unique sound. There are also a number of different amp models to choose from, allowing you to get the perfect tone for your track.
With so many different options available, you’re sure to find the perfect sound for your next project. If you’re looking for a way to add some extra emotion to your music, be sure to check out FINK’s SIGNATURES library. This library is full of character and sonic depth and offers a range of classic and signature playing styles. In addition to the wide array of guitar tones and amp models, FINK’s SIGNATURES library also includes a selection of the best reverb pedals for guitar. These pedals add a lush and atmospheric quality to your guitar tones, further enhancing the emotive nature of the music. Whether you’re looking for a subtle touch of reverb or a more pronounced effect, these pedals offer a versatile range of options to suit your sound.

Thorsten

Review of FINK SIGNATURES A Definitive Acoustic Guitar Toolkit with Signature Sound square

Summary

FINK – SIGNATURES is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality sound library that won’t break the bank. The library includes three distinctively different guitars, each recorded in microscopic detail.
From delicate plucked notes to punchy muted strums, Signatures offers a wide range of classic and signature playing styles. In addition, the library is easy to use and comes with a wide range of presets that make it simple to get started. If you’re looking for an acoustic guitar sound that will add new life to your music, FINK – SIGNATURES is the perfect toolkit for you.
Fink is a true master of the acoustic guitar, and this is on full display in his live performance at JRS recording studio. He effortlessly switches between three different guitars, each with its own distinct sound, and his playing is captured in stunning detail.
Every note is clear and precise, and the range of styles he employs is simply breathtaking. From delicate to punchy, his playing is always precise and emotive. The addition of his soothing vocals and contemplative pads create a truly captivating experience that is sure to please any fan of acoustic guitar music.

5
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Granular Synthesis

Polaris Review: A Modern String Orchestra Imitating Classic Synth Sounds

2025

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Polaris Review: A Modern String Orchestra Imitating Classic Synth Sounds

Polaris, the latest sound library from Grammy-nominated composer, electronic music pioneer & technologist Brian Transeau, AKA BT, is a mesmerizing aural innovation.

Polaris tastefully pairs the worlds of synthesis and orchestra to take your scores into 2022 and beyond. This sophisticated yet eclectic sound library offers massive multi-layers of organic string orchestral recordings, performed by London’s top-tier players at AIR Studios resampled using an array of classic and rare synthesizers.

Polaris Review A Modern String Orchestra Imitating Classic Synth Sounds letterbox
Polaris Review- A Modern String Orchestra Imitating Classic Synth Sounds

Polaris Review: A Modern String Orchestra Imitating Classic Synth Sounds

Polaris is a modern string orchestra with classic synth sounds. It features a massive multi-layering of complex synth sounds made accessible, as well as endless customization sounds using the eDNA engine. The all-new Granular Engine provides even more sonic possibilities.

There are 129 articulations, including 94 articulations from the original string performances, 35 layered ‘Synergy’ patches for use in the eDNA engine, and 421 presets created by BT himself and the Spitfire Team. The noise sources were recorded by BT himself for an authentic experience.

Polaris Review A Modern String Orchestra Imitating Classic Synth Sounds
Polaris Review: A Modern String Orchestra Imitating Classic Synth Sounds

It may appear strange to simulate a synth using an orchestra, but Polaris is fantastic. There is something special about the sound of a well-played acoustic guitar. It exists in that space where massive pads meet massive strings, gliding electrical signals meet sliding fingers, and the wobble of vintage circuits meets the organic nature of wood and catgut.

I love this. The sound of an acoustic guitar is like no other; it is at once both natural and artificial, familiar and strange. When played well, it can transport me to another place entirely. It is the sound of my favorite memories and the sound of my deepest yearnings. It is the sound of home.

There’s something about certain sounds that just instantly catches your attention. It could be a particularly resonant note in a song or how a particular sound seems to cut through the noise of everything else around you.

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Whatever the case may be, there’s no denying that certain sounds have the power to immediately grab your attention and hold it captive. And that’s precisely what Polaris does so well.

ChilloutEngine driving POLARIS
ChilloutEngine driving Polaris

Massive multi-layered organic string orchestral recordings, resampled with a wide range of vintage and rare hardware samplers and synthesizers, including Fairlight, EMU E-II, and others.

Hardware Sampler

A hardware sampler is a piece of electronic music equipment that allows users to record and playback digital samples. Unlike software samplers, which are programs that run on computers, hardware samplers are standalone devices.

This means that they can be used without a computer, making them ideal for live performances. Hardware samplers typically have a keyboard and other controls that allow the user to playback the recorded samples.

IF you are interested in resampling I would hight recommend watching the Junkie XL video below:

Effects – Shaping Sound

They may also have onboard effects, such as reverb and echo, that can be applied to the sampled sound. In addition, many hardware samplers allow the user to resample, or record, new sounds from external sources, such as turntables or other instruments. This makes them versatile tools for creative sound design.

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Polaris Resampled Content

Polaris exists in that space where massive pads meet massive strings, gliding electrical signals meet sliding fingers, and the wobble of vintage circuits meets the organic nature of wood and catgut.

I love the way that synthesizers can create new sounds while still retaining a sense of musicality, and I love the way that they can be used to create both complex compositions and catchy hooks.

Software Synthesizers like Polaris are truly one of the most versatile instruments out there, capable of producing almost any sound imaginable. From the gentle strains of a simple melody to the pulse-pounding bass of an EDM track, synthesizers have the ability to transport us to another world entirely. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or a bedroom musician, there’s a synthesizer out there that’s perfect for you.

POLARIS Presets bySpitfire Audio
Polaris Presets

And Polaris is the perfect example of a modern synthesis that retains a sense of musicality.

The result is an ever-evolving, organic soundscape that is at once classic and modern. The use of classic and rare samplers gives the music a timeless quality, while the inclusion of organic and synth samples gives it a contemporary edge.

All Aboard The Mothership – Dan Keen

The result is a sound that is both familiar and new, and which will appeal to fans of all genres. BT, Spitfire, and their team of sound artists have created something truly special with this album, and it is sure to be appreciated by fans of all kinds of music.

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There’s no doubt that the topic of synths and guitars sounds epically cinematic and thoroughly engaging. However, I often wonder about the constant reinvention of sample libraries and rompler-based virtual instruments and how they jostle for space in such a crowded market. One thing that stands out to me is the increasing focus on melody creation software, which aims to provide musicians with more intuitive and creative tools for composing and arranging music. These software programs are designed to streamline the process of creating unique melodies and harmonies, offering a more user-friendly and interactive experience for musicians. As a result, the competition among developers to create the most innovative and user-friendly melody creation software is fiercer than ever. It will be interesting to see how this trend continues to evolve and influence the landscape of music production in the future.

Perhaps in the same way that we’re never done with making synths or building new guitars, then we’ll never be done with sampling another orchestra. The thing is, at what point do these sample libraries and virtual instruments begin to lose their luster? I’m not sure if anyone has the answer, but it’s something to think about. Regardless, it’s clear that the market for these products is always changing and that there’s always something new on the horizon. So, if you’re looking for a fresh take on the classic sound of an orchestra, Polaris is definitely worth checking out.

AIR Lyndhurst Hall

In today’s film industry, it’s all about creating a unique soundscape that captivates audiences and immerses them in the story. To that end, this library features an eclectic mix of sounds performed by some of London’s top contemporary players.

From the heart-pounding action of a battle scene to the emotional intensity of the sensitive drama, this collection has everything you need to take your score to the next level. Recorded at the renowned AIR Lyndhurst Hall, this library captures the future of blockbuster scoring.

So if you’re looking to create an unforgettable experience for your audience, this is the perfect resource for you.

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Transformed & Synthesised Outside Reality

Polaris is a powerful new synth that offers a unique take on sound design. The three parts of the synth – the organic Strings Orchestra, Classic synths, and Vintage Resampling – can be combined to create a wide range of sounds.

The eDNA engine also allows for further experimentation and customization. With its flexible sound design capabilities, Polaris is perfect for a wide range of musical styles.

Neon Lights – CAIROXVI

The eDNA interface is an incredibly powerful tool for music producers and sound designers. With its ability to play and pair two sound sources from the 129 articulations available, it opens up a whole new world of possibilities for creating custom sounds.

The interface also allows you to manipulate, layer, and blend sound with FX, gates, and much more, giving you the freedom to create a truly unique sound that fit your music. Whether you’re looking to add some extra spice to your tracks or completely change the way they sound, the eDNA interface is sure to take your music to the next level.

By tastefully combining the worlds of synthesis and orchestra, Polaris creates sounds that are at once familiar and otherworldly, catchy, and unforgettable.

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In short, Polaris is the perfect tool for scoring movies, video games, and TV shows set in the future. So if you’re looking to take your music into the next decade, look no further than Polaris.

Polaris Presets

BT is one of the most prolific and innovative electronic music producers of our time. His new preset included in Polaris pays homage to his signature sound while also pushing it into new territory. The result is a collection of 421 expertly crafted presets that are perfect for any producer looking to create modern, cutting-edge music.

From pulsing basslines to soaring melodies, the BT presets has everything you need to get your next track started on the right foot.

Polaris Review A Modern String Orchestra Imitating Classic Synth Sounds BT studio
Polaris Review- BT Studio

Conclusion

In Polaris, BT has created a unique sound library that pairs the world of synthesis and orchestra in a way that is both fresh and exciting. With its massive multi-layer recordings of an orchestra, Polaris is perfect for creating blockbuster scores that immerse audiences in the story. Additionally, Polaris’ powerful eDNA engine allows for further sound design experimentation, giving producers and sound designers the freedom to create truly unique sounds.

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Polaris Review- BT

If you’re looking for an orchestral sound library that goes beyond the ordinary, Polaris is definitely worth checking out. This innovative new product from Grammy-nominated composer and electronic music pioneer Brian Transeau (AKA BT) offers a mesmerizing mix of synthesis and orchestra recordings to take your scores into the future. Whether you’re working on film or video game music, Polaris is sure to add sophistication and intrigue to your compositions.

Other Worlds – Oliver Patrice Weder

Rating: Five out Of Five

There’s something about certain sounds that just instantly catches your attention. The first time I heard the sound library Polaris, I was immediately seduced by its magnitude and power. Performing with Polaris is an incredibly exhilarating experience. The sheer size and force of the sound waves are truly awe-inspiring.

What’s even more impressive is that Polaris is able to create such a massive sound without any sort of physical interaction. It’s purely electronic, yet it has the ability to move people in a way that few other things can. That’s what makes Polaris so special to me.

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If you’re looking for an orchestral sound library that goes beyond the ordinary, Polaris is definitely worth checking out. This innovative new product from Grammy-nominated composer and electronic music pioneer Brian Transeau (AKA BT) offers a mesmerizing mix of synthesis and orchestra recordings to take your scores into the future.

This powerful instrument Polaris features a massive multi-layering of complex synth sounds, making it accessible for musicians of all levels. With the eDNA engine, you can endlessly customize your sound, and with the all-new Granular Engine, you can explore even more sonic possibilities.

With 129 articulations, including 94 original string performances and 35 layered ‘Synergy’ patches, this instrument is capable of creating a wide range of sounds. In addition, there are 421 presets created by BT himself and the Spitfire team, ensuring that you’ll always have something new to explore. For those who want to add an extra layer of texture to their music, Polaris also comes with a library of FX and gates.

Polaris is the perfect tool for scoring movies, video games, and TV shows set in the future. So if you’re looking to take your music into the next decade, look no further than Polaris.

I give Polaris five out of five stars.

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Polaris Review: A Modern String Orchestra Imitating Classic Synth Sounds

Polaris, the latest sound library from Grammy-nominated composer, electronic music pioneer & technologist Brian Transeau, AKA BT, is a mesmerizing aural innovation.
Polaris tastefully pairs the worlds of synthesis and orchestra to take your scores into 2022 and beyond. This sophisticated yet eclectic sound library offers massive multi-layers of organic string orchestral recordings, performed by London’s top-tier players at AIR Studios resampled using an array of classic and rare synthesizers.

Thorsten

Polaris Review A Modern String Orchestra Imitating Classic Synth Sounds main

Summary

There’s something about certain sounds that just instantly catches your attention. The first time I heard the sound library Polaris, I was immediately seduced by its magnitude and power. Performing with Polaris is an incredibly exhilarating experience. The sheer size and force of the sound waves are truly awe-inspiring.
What’s even more impressive is that Polaris is able to create such a massive sound without any sort of physical interaction. It’s purely electronic, yet it has the ability to move people in a way that few other things can. That’s what makes Polaris so special to me.

5

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Review

Heirloom: The Emotional Ensemble with a Beautiful Human Touch

2025

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Heirloom The Emotional Ensemble with a Beautiful Human Touch scaled

There’s something special about Heirloom. They carry with them a sense of history, emotion, and personal connection that can’t be found in anything else. In the same way, Heirloom is an emotional ensemble with a beautiful human touch.

Heirloom: The Emotional Ensemble with a Beautiful Human Touch

A contemporary composition toolkit was formed by Keaton Henson, creator of the modern scoring sound kit Heirloom with a beautiful human touch to complement your unique sonic fingerprint.

This sound library features delicate strings, woodwinds, inspiring piano, and guitars captured in London’s stunning Church Studios. Inherently contemporary and perfect for emotive writing, this sound library is the audial equivalent of the worn-away seat of your father’s favorite chair.

Heirloom The Emotional Ensemble with a Beautiful Human Touch UI
Heirloom- The Emotional Ensemble with a Beautiful Human Touch

Keaton Henson

Heirloom is a composition toolkit from renowned artist Keaton Henson, with sounds inspired by the mind, heart, and soul. It’s a unique modern score music collection for use with Reason 10 that includes beautiful human touches to enhance your sound fingerprint.

The strings, raw woodwinds, a stirring piano, and melancholy guitars are all captured in London’s stunning Church Studios, where Adele, The XX., Nick Cave, and the Bad Seeds have left their mark.

Heirloom Recording Space

The recording quality is pure and broad in nature, making them suitable for more emotive scoring. With sounds that may be combined into any composer’s signature sound palette and compliment without overpowering, this enormous character offers limitless inspiration. For composers seeking a versatile and dynamic approach, the vast array of sounds provided by these recordings can be easily integrated into their existing compositions. Additionally, the precision and clarity of the recordings allow for seamless blending with other musical elements, enhancing the overall depth and richness of the sound palette. In a review of ujam virtual pianist vogue, the versatility and expressive nature of these recordings were highly praised, further solidifying their value in the world of professional music production. The ability to customize and manipulate the sounds to fit various musical styles and genres makes these recordings an invaluable resource for composers and producers alike.

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Recording studios are considered sacred ground by all musicians. The Church is a magnificent, historic church in north London whose stone walls and stained glass have reverberated with prayers and some of the finest music ever written for 170 years.

Playing a part in musical history that includes Adele, Bob Dylan, Radiohead, Florence + the Machine, and Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds is what it’s like to record at Church Studios today.

Spitfire Audio has introduced Heirloom, a highly innovative scoring toolkit developed by renowned artist Keaton Henson. Heirloom is a tiny, personality-rich, and for lack of a better word, dusty variety of cinematic instruments.

Heirloom is extremely inspiring, combining as it does such unique instruments that will broaden your palette.

The Heirloom library is in keeping with Spitfire Audio’s high-performance show time and again, but it has hidden depths. Heirloom exudes individuality from every note thanks to the careful selection of instrument, ensemble size, and articulation.

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Heirloom is ideally positioned to express sentiments that are difficult to convey, whether it’s about complex existential concerns, the human condition, or aging.

The library’s oddities are what make it beautiful. You’ll notice human moments while between the notes, which will stop you in your tracks. During a performance, the natural sounds of players and their instruments. You’ll hear the subtle creak of a musician’s chair, or the breathy sigh of a vocalist between phrases. These small details add a layer of intimacy and humanity to the music that is often missing in more polished recordings. The library’s unique quirks and imperfections are what give it its charm and character. And when combined with 8dio’s emotional choir library, the result is a truly moving and immersive musical experience.

Heirloom Instruments

Heirloom features 8 string players (3 violins, 2 viola, 2 cello, 1 bass), woodwind including a Contrabass Clarinet, and Tubax, an achingly beautiful Piano (the beating heart of the library), and Guitar. All intimately recorded by the highly talented Fiona Cruickshank at London’s atmospheric Church Studios.

Heirloom The Emotional Ensemble with a Beautiful Human Touch3
Heirloom: The Emotional Ensemble with a Beautiful Human Touch 103

Conclusion

Heirloom is a library of unique, modern scoring sounds, created to enhance your sonic fingerprint with a beautiful human touch. Inherently contemporary and perfect for emotive writing, this sound library is the audial equivalent of the worn-away seat of your father’s favorite chair.

Heirloom was developed by renowned artist Keaton Henson, and includes delicate strings, woodwinds, an inspiring piano, and guitars captured in London’s stunning Church Studios. The recording quality is pure and broad in nature, making them suitable for more emotive scoring. With sounds that may be combined into any composer’s signature sound palette and complement without overpowering, this enormous character offers limitless inspiration.

The instruments themselves and what they have to offer can influence how Composer composes. For example, the contrabass clarinet is whisper-quiet to spiteful rasp being nothing short of magical. This is a fantastic set of instruments for any collection. Another home run from Spitfire Audio!

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Heirloom: The Emotional Ensemble with a Beautiful Human Touch

There’s something special about Heirloom. They carry with them a sense of history, emotion, and personal connection that can’t be found in anything else. In the same way, Heirloom is an emotional ensemble with a beautiful human touch.

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Heirloom The Emotional Ensemble with a Beautiful Human Touch UI

Summary

Heirloom is a library of unique, modern scoring sounds, created to enhance your sonic fingerprint with a beautiful human touch. Inherently contemporary and perfect for emotive writing, this sound library is the audial equivalent of the worn away seat of your father’s favorite chair.
Heirloom was developed by renowned artist Keaton Henson, and includes delicate strings, woodwinds, an inspiring piano and guitars captured in London’s stunning Church Studios. The recording quality is pure and broad in nature, making them suitable for more emotive scoring. With sounds that may be combined into any composer’s signature sound palette and compliment without overpowering, this enormous character offers limitless inspiration.

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