Sound Advice

Jan 1, 2008 12:00 PM, Geary Yelton

           
 

Can't find anyone to play bagpipes for your last-minute recording session? Not to worry. The Downloadable Virtual Instruments (DVI) series is now available from soundware developer SoniVox (www.sonivoxmi.com), publishers of Muse, Broadway Big Band, and Complete Symphonic Collection. Each individual download delivers a standalone instrument, or you can use DVIs as RTAS or VSTi plug-ins. Prices range from $19.95 for Highland Bagpipes or Dynamic Acoustic Bass to $79.95 for Symphonic Ensemble Brass or Strings. Instruments for $29.95 include Clavinet, Suitcase Electric Piano, Hofner Beatle Bass, and Les Paul Guitar. All DVIs are Windows compatible, and Mac support is expected soon.

Camel Audio (www.camelaudio.com) has published a pair of new preset libraries for two Native Instruments soft synths. Starscape Absynth Sounds ($99) supplies an eclectic collection of 250 original presets for Absynth. The sounds encompass evolving textures, intricate rhythms, alien instruments, and off-world sound effects designed by programmer Tim Conrardy. The patches are based on 230 GB of custom samples that include circuit-bent devices, field recordings, modular analog synths, vocoder experiments, and acoustic instruments.

For more-straightforward electronic fare, Biolabs Massive Retaliations, vol. 1 ($69), has 200 patches created for Massive by game and film sound designer Biomechanoid. Types range from leads, basses, and pads to atmospheres, rhythmic sequences, and electronic effects. The collection uses the software's browser to categorize sounds by their attributes. Although some of Biolabs' patches make use of Massive's macro controls, you'll need to program your own controller routings if you want to use your mod wheel. Visit Camel Audio's Web site to hear audio examples and download 20 free demo presets each from Starscape Absynth Sounds and Biolabs Massive Retaliations.