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Loading Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 1.0 KONTAKT is straightforward. After installation via Native Access, follow these pro tips:
Step 1: Purging RAM Because it is a KONTAKT library, you should use the "Purge" function. This library loads a lot of sample heads. Purge all groups, then play your MIDI. KONTAKT will load only the notes you actually use.
Step 2: Double Tracking for Width The library defaults to a centered stereo image (violins left, cellos right as the player sees them). To get a massive sound:
Step 3: Automation is King Map your MIDI controller to the "Vibrato Intensity" knob. Real string players don't play with static vibrato; they swell into it. Automating this knob from 0% to 80% over two bars is the difference between a "MIDI file" and a "performance."
Best for:
Not ideal for:
Overall Rating (v1.0): 8/10
A major upgrade over the original, bringing modern workflow and excellent sound for contemporary production, despite requiring the full KONTAKT license.
Achieving Modern String Textures with Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 is a highly detailed
library designed for contemporary production, offering an intimate, 22-piece ensemble tailored for pop, R&B, dance, and modern scores. Developed in collaboration with e-instruments
, this sequel to the original Session Strings Pro delivers a refreshed sound and a streamlined interface for faster creative workflows. Key Features and Specifications Ensemble Size
: A mid-sized contemporary ensemble featuring eight violins, six violas, four cellos, and four double basses. Library Size : Approximately
of compressed sample data (equating to roughly 69 GB uncompressed). Sound Quality
: Recorded with a focus on an "intimate" and "dry" quality, making it easier to mix into modern tracks compared to distant, orchestral-focused libraries. Compatibility : Runs in the free Kontakt Player (version 5 or higher). Expressive Articulations Session Strings Pro 2 includes 26 sampled articulations to provide realistic, nuanced expression: Legato & Portamento
: True legato transitions for smooth, connected melodic lines. Dynamic Shorts
: Staccato, spiccato, and pizzicato for rhythmic driving parts. Modern Flourishes
: Scoops, falls, slides, and various crescendo speeds (slow and fast). : Major and minor key-switchable options. Smart Play Assistance
To help non-string players achieve authentic arrangements, the library incorporates several "smart" features: Smart Chord
: Generates fully orchestrated ensemble chords from single keys. Smart Voice Split Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 1.0 KONTAKT
: Automatically allocates notes in a chord to the correct instrument group (e.g., bass notes to the double basses) for natural voicing. Rhythm Animator
: A customizable step sequencer with patterns that transform chords into realistic rhythmic phrases. Mixing and Customization The interface includes a dedicated Mixer page
where users can adjust volume, panning, EQ, and compression for each individual instrument group. Seating Positions
: Choose between "Traditional" orchestral seating or "Modern" symmetrical seating for a more centered pop feel. Color Effects : A multi-effect page with 51 convolution-based presets
to quickly change the sonic character of the strings—from vintage gramophone tones to lush hall reverbs. or compare this to the standard Session Strings 2 Sessions Strings Pro 2 - Native Instruments
Native Instruments' Session Strings Pro 2 1.0 KONTAKT is a premium 38 GB contemporary string library developed in partnership with e-instruments. Designed specifically for pop, R&B, and modern scoring, it offers an intimate, detailed sound that serves as a focused alternative to massive orchestral libraries. Core Specifications & Ensemble Details
The library features a mid-sized 22-piece ensemble, providing double the section size of the standard Session Strings 2.
Ensemble Composition: 8 violins, 6 violas, 4 celli, and 4 double basses.
Library Size: 38 GB (equivalent to roughly 69 GB uncompressed).
Format: Requires Kontakt Full or the free Kontakt Player (v5.8.0 or higher).
Seating Positions: Offers two distinct panning modes: Traditional (orchestral stage placement) and Modern (centered for modern pop mixes). Key Features & Performance Tools
Session Strings Pro 2 is built around a "musical flow" workflow, emphasizing speed and ease of use through several automation engines. Is Session Strings 2 a good purchase? (not the pro version)
Here’s a concise, “solid report” style breakdown of Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 (v1.0) for KONTAKT.
| Feature | Session Strings Pro (original) | Session Strings Pro 2 (v1.0) | |-------------|------------------------------------|----------------------------------| | Interface | Older, tab-based | Modern, resizable, single-window | | Legato | Basic | True Polyphonic + Agile mode | | Divisi | No | Yes (Smart Voice Splitting) | | Microphone Mixer | Limited | Full multi-mic + sends | | Built-in FX | Basic | Expanded (saturation, tape FX) | | Articulations | ~12 | ~20 including trills, runs |
The original Session Strings was a cohesive block. Pro 2 splits the 11 players into two distinct groups: High (Violins/Violas) and Low (Cellos/Bass). You can assign these to different MIDI channels. This means you can have the High section playing a staccato melody while the Low section holds a legato bass line—impossible in the original version.
Session Strings Pro 2 is a 16-piece string ensemble (8 violins, 6 violas, 2 cellos) designed for pop, rock, R&B, and media scoring. It offers a modern, tight, and polished sound—optimized for fast workflow and rhythmic articulation.
| Feature | Session Strings Pro 2 | Competitors (e.g., Spitfire, Orchestral Tools) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Sound | Dry, close-mic, "studio pop" sound. Lush but not huge. | Often cinematic, wet, recorded in large halls. | | Target Audience | Pop producers, TV composers, beatmakers. | Film composers, orchestral writers. | | RAM Usage | Moderate (lightweight enough for laptop production). | High (often requires SSD streaming and high RAM). | | Playability | High (Smart features, Animator). | Medium/High (Requires more MIDI programming). | Loading Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 1
Absolutely. Even years after its release, Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 1.0 KONTAKT remains a staple on the hard drives of top 40 producers. It does not try to be a symphony; it embraces its role as the "tightest, driest, most rhythmically capable string section" on the market.
If you are tired of symphonic strings that sound washed out in reverb, or if you need a string library that cuts through a bass-heavy mix without muddying the low end, download Session Strings Pro 2. Load up the "Modern Pop" preset, turn on the Rhythm Engine, and press a middle C. You will immediately hear why this 1.0 release became a modern classic.
Rating: 9/10 Lost one point only for the lack of solo strings, but flawless for its intended purpose.
Keywords integrated: Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 1.0 KONTAKT, KONTAKT Player, NI Session Strings, string library, pop strings, rhythm engine, legato, sample library.
Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 is a contemporary string ensemble library for KONTAKT designed for pop, R&B, and modern scoring. It features a 22-piece ensemble with an intimate, detailed sound, offering significant upgrades over the original version and the standard Session Strings 2. Key Specifications Library Size: 36.6 GB compressed (~69 GB uncompressed).
Ensemble: 22 players total, including 8 violins, 6 violas, 4 celli, and 4 double basses.
Articulations: 26 sampled articulations for realistic expression.
Presets: Includes 10 .nki instruments and 480 snapshots/presets. Core Features
Smart Play Assistance: Includes Smart Chord for generating full orchestrations from single keys and Smart Voice Split, which automatically allocates notes to the correct instrument group for natural voicing.
True Legato: Features true legato, portamento, and glissando with correct transitions for every note.
Rhythm & Phrase Animator: An improved step-sequencer and arpeggiator (16 or 32 steps) to create complex rhythmic arrangements.
Flexible Seating: Users can choose between Traditional (orchestral stereo positioning) or Modern (centered/symmetrical) seating arrangements.
Mixer & Effects: A comprehensive mixer allows individual control over sections (volume, panning, EQ) and master effects like compression, delay, and convolution reverb. Articulations Overview The library offers a wide palette of expressions, such as: Basics: Sustain, Legato, Staccato, Spiccato, and Pizzicato.
Dynamic: Multiple crescendi (fast/slow), Dimuendo, and Forte Piano.
Specialty: Portamento, Glissando, Trills (major/minor), Scoops, Falls, and Slides. System Compatibility
Session Strings Pro 2 is compatible with both the full KONTAKT version and the free KONTAKT PLAYER. It functions as a standalone application or as a plug-in within a DAW. Sessions Strings Pro 2 - Native Instruments
Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 is a mid-sized contemporary string ensemble library designed for pop, R&B, and modern scoring. It offers an intimate, detailed sound as an alternative to large, cinematic orchestral libraries. Core Specifications Ensemble Size : A 22-piece ensemble comprising 8 violins, 6 violas, 4 celli, and 4 double basses Library Size : Approximately (compressed) to (uncompressed). Compatibility : Requires the free Kontakt Player (version 5.8.0 or higher). Articulations : Features 26 sampled articulations Step 3: Automation is King Map your MIDI
, including true legato, portamento, glissando, staccato, spiccato, and various crescendos. Key Performance Features Sessions Strings Pro 2 - Native Instruments
Native Instruments' Session Strings Pro 2 for Kontakt is a comprehensive 22-piece string ensemble library designed for modern pop, R&B, and cinematic scoring. Native Instruments Key Features Ensemble Configuration
: Features a 22-piece ensemble (8 violins, 6 violas, 4 celli, and 4 double basses). Users can choose between Traditional (orchestral) and (centered) seating positions. Articulations
: Includes 26 sampled articulations such as legato, portamento, glissando, spiccato, pizzicato, and various crescendos and trills. Smart Play Assistance Smart Voice Split
: Automatically allocates each note of a played chord to the correct instrument group (e.g., bass notes to cellos/basses) for natural voicing. Smart Chord
: Generates fully orchestrated ensemble chords from a single key. Rhythm & Phrase Animators
: Tools for generating rhythmic patterns and creative arrangements while maintaining real-time performance. Customization & Effects Mixer Page
: Provides independent control over volume, panning, EQ, and compression for each section. Color Multi-effect
: Offers 51 presets across categories like "Vintage Gramophone" to "Orchestral Hall" to instantly change the sonic character. Compatibility : Compatible with the full software or the free Kontakt Player Native Instruments Technical Specifications
[Session Strings Pro 2](https://www.native-instruments.com/en/products/komplete/cinematic/session-strings-pro-2/) Download Size Number of Articulations Total Players Sound Presets AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more Sessions Strings Pro 2 - Native Instruments
Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 1.0 is a comprehensive virtual instrument designed for contemporary music production
, offering an intimate and detailed string ensemble sound suitable for pop, R&B, and modern scores. e-instruments Core Concept and Sound
This library moves away from traditional, sweeping orchestral "hall" sounds in favor of a dry, modern orchestral timbre Native Instruments Ensemble Size : It features a 22-piece ensemble consisting of 8 violins, 6 violas, 4 celli, and 4 double basses Seating Positions : Users can switch between Traditional
seating. Traditional offers standard orchestral stereo positioning, while Modern provides a more centered, contemporary feel.
: The samples were recorded at a renowned German studio, capturing a "close" and vibrant sound that remains clear even in dense mixes. Native Instruments Play Assistance and Smart Features
One of the standout updates in Version 2 is the inclusion of several "Smart Play" features that simplify complex string arranging. Extra Plugins Smart Voice Split
: Automatically allocates notes in a chord to the correct instrument group (e.g., the lowest note to the basses, the highest to the violins) for natural voicing. Smart Chord
: Allows users to generate fully orchestrated ensemble chords by pressing single keys. Rhythm & Phrase Animators : These include an arpeggiator and step sequencer with 264 editable patterns 180 flexible string arrangements to add motion to static chords. Articulations and Control The library includes 26 sampled articulations , providing a wide range of expressive performance options. Native Instruments Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 1.0 Kontakt
Subject: Analysis of Library Functionality, Architecture, and Distribution Context Library Version: 1.0 Format: KONTAKT (NKI, NKC, NKR)