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Originally Posted by Mizzle
I am looking for some user feedback on the different sample libraries that are available these days. I am currently using old stock Reason Refills for arrangements, and obviously there are limitations to getting a usable sound here.
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Agreed. While Reason is great for many other genres of music and functions, orchestral is not it's strong point.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Mizzle
Anybody out there have experience with one or more of these?
I'd like to hear about workflow and how responsive or "smart" the sample programming is. What is the software package like for each parent sample set, and does it play nice with your host sequencing/notation program (ex. Cubase, Finale etc.)?
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You make an interesting comment here: "smart" sample programming. Most of this doesn't lie on the sample but on the user. Finale integrates GPO into the playback taking care of most of the sample decisions for you. Other programs (Logic, Cubase, Sonar, Protools) don't do this for you, but give you much more freedom and flexibility in what kind(s) of samples you choose to use. If you're willing to learn what samples work for what kinds of musical lines and situations, then you'll get more realism and flexibility.
I use Logic and Sonar with VSTi. While I do use Pro Tools, I don't use VSTs very often with it. I use Pro Tools more as a mastering program. I've used East West and the VSL samples. I do have GPO as well, but find it the most limited out of the three.
Now based on your needs:
Quote:
Originally Posted by Mizzle
Access to decent full orchestra and jazz combo sounds for my own arrangement purposes. Access to very good quality string and piano samples for professional level film scoring (think piano quintet).
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I think East West or VSL will be better for your needs. East West has a great, large Hollywood sound, but the Silver and Gold packages only have one mic setting available which has some embedded reverb. This can be a con when you're wanting to create intimate ensembles like string quartets. This is where VSL would serve you better, but just understand that you'll have to do a bit more processing to get a good sound. I also don't like the way VSL names their files- which makes the work flow a bit more cumbersome.
One thing you didn't mention is your budget. There is also Project SAM which is getting alot of attention and use by major composers for media. The top VSL package is around $20,000!! So what is your budget? This will help me give you some realistic options.
Thanks,
Nathan