Help with picking the right library.

Currently, my I have the latest version of sibeluis with NP 4. 

HD 5400 with SSD space of approximate 1TG.  I still have about 700 GB of memory left. 

What will would good VST? 

I hear good things about VSl and EW but I don't want to harm my laptop. 

There's no one answer. Anything worthwhile is expensive. Listen to all the demos and ask, here, what people are using to achieve things you think sound right for you. VSL have plenty of videos and demos (you need the videos!). EW have some. The latest version of NP is receiving much acclaim. I know that VSL have several "instant orchestra" offerings - just add water, press a button and hey presto.............because they all come with loads of bull-stercum, telling you you'll be the most wonderful composer of all time if you buy their product!

I don't know what 1TG is but I keep all this library stuff on an external 2Tb SSDs (One of which is a backup).

Edit: My library occupies 1.1Tb (and that's without any sampled pianos (for which I use Pianoteq). I don't have the full set the maker offers by all means. I have full string libraries and most woodwind, brass and limited percussion. So it's probably advisable to buy a portable/external SSD of at least 1Tb. The makers will advise how much space their downloaded files take up.

Edited October 11, 20232 yr by Quinn

13 hours ago, Quinn said:

There's no one answer. Anything worthwhile is expensive. Listen to all the demos and ask, here, what people are using to achieve things you think sound right for you. VSL have plenty of videos and demos (you need the videos!). EW have some. The latest version of NP is receiving much acclaim. I know that VSL have several "instant orchestra" offerings - just add water, press a button and hey presto.............because they all come with loads of bull-stercum, telling you you'll be the most wonderful composer of all time if you buy their product!

I don't know what 1TG is but I keep all this library stuff on an external 2Tb SSDs (One of which is a backup).

Edit: My library occupies 1.1Tb (and that's without any sampled pianos (for which I use Pianoteq). I don't have the full set the maker offers by all means. I have full string libraries and most woodwind, brass and limited percussion. So it's probably advisable to buy a portable/external SSD of at least 1Tb. The makers will advise how much space their downloaded files take up.

 

Silly me.  My computer 1TB of cloud storage (SSD).  I barely even have used that storage.

 Considering the specs you've provided—a healthy 700GB of remaining SSD space—your system should handle most VSTs without issue. VSL is incredibly meticulous/precise, like it's got this knack for hitting just the right notes w/ surgical accuracy, and that's helpful when nailing the dynamics in bigger arrangements. Then there's EWQL is best for a blockbuster movie soundtrack type of mega-arrangement. For something different, check out 8Dio's offerings. They have some really sick stuff like their "Adagio" strings, which are all about expressive legato, and they often incorporate unconventional playing techniques for that extra flavor.

VSL has a half price sale starting Monday, 11-20.

   Special edition v.1 for about  $150 vs $300.

I highly recommend it.  It is friendly with Dorico, Sibelius, and finale, and the sounds--- well, I am using the solo strings and D-274 steinway and they are simply incredible.  The articulations for the solo strings, and the sound of the viola and cello in particular are amazing.

  The software, once you get the hang of it, is very flexible and easy to use.

 At half price, it is a bargain.