Impact Soundworks has released Tokyo Scoring Strings, a free sample library for Kontakt Player.
Tokyo Scoring Strings is a must-have resource for many media composers, and as such, we can hear it in countless blockbuster movies and video games.
As with most similar libraries, the downside is that it’s relatively expensive, often costing out aspiring composers.
Thankfully, Impact Soundworks has decided to launch Tokyo Scoring Strings Free, a free introduction to the flagship library.
Tokyo Scoring Strings Free is a streamlined version offering two instrument sections rather than the six provided by the Essentials and Complete versions.
The included sections are Violins One (eight violinists) and Cello (four cellists). Even with just two sections, the ensemble size is more than enough to create real depth and power.
There are a few ways to look at this orchestral freebie, so let’s get the negatives out of the way first. It doesn’t offer many articulations; everything is arco (sustained bowing, no plucking), and you also get legato slur with re-bow and natural release tails.
The legato slur is very nice, and you can switch between poly and mono legato. The problem with having so few articulations is that you’re restricted to playing a certain way.
If you’re looking for action strings, you won’t find them here because there are no shorts.
You should check out Blueprint Short Strings by Fracture Sounds if you need free string shorts.
Tokyo Scoring Strings Free doesn’t allow you to adjust the microphone position like you can with the paid versions, and you only get one microphone mix rather than three.
Again, these limitations restrict how you play to an extent because they help define the overall character of the sound.
However, being free isn’t the only positive here!
The attention to detail in the recording process means we have incredibly high-quality sounds from outstanding musicians.
Although we’re limited to sustained playing, that covers a broad range of material from pensive, emotional soundtracks to ballads, pop songs, and more.
While the articulations are few, you get three dynamic layers per articulation, so you can transition from light and airy to something much bolder.
The Cello section is fantastic for driving a piece with an understated but transformative counter-melody.
Another thing I like about the Cello section is that it can sound quite raw at times; the Cello is a beautiful instrument, but it’s also capable of sounding extremely tense or vulnerable, which isn’t lost here.
In summary, it’s a limited but great-sounding introduction to a fantastic premium library, but it’s absolutely worth having!
We’re lucky enough to see more high-quality orchestral freebies than ever, and another one I recommend checking out is Blueprint Gentle Strings.
Tokyo Scoring Strings Free is available to download now and is compatible with the free Kontakt Player 7.8.1 or higher.
Download: Tokyo Scoring Strings (FREE – Kontakt Player 7.8.1 or higher required)
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Last Updated on October 11, 2024 by Tomislav Zlatic.
