Native Instruments has introduced Session Strings (http://www.native-instruments.com/#/de/products/producer/powered-by-kont...), a virtual string ensemble for Kontakt 4 and the free Kontakt Player. It provides acoustic string sounds for pop, soul, R&B, disco, house and other contemporary music styles.

Session Strings recreates a string ensemble comprising four violins, three violas, two celli and two double basses, captured and produced in one of Germany's most renowned recording studios by sampling expert Thomas Koritke's new sound design house e-instruments. All recordings were taken from exclusive instruments from the 18th and 19th century, played by top musicians from some of the finest European orchestra.

Session Strings' Animator function can be engaged during play to transform incoming notes into virtuous staccato, spiccato and pizzicato chords and arpeggios, with the timing and groove adjustable by the user, and while maintaining natural legato articulation at the same time. An integrated studio-grade convolution reverb also provides a variety of realistic room ambiences.

Session Strings also provides a full set of optional "Motown versions" for all included sounds, utilizing a special sonic treatment that recreates the distinctive and highly sought-after vintage string sound of the legendary soul recordings from the 60s and 70s. Session Strings is available for download purchase in the NI Online Shop for US$119.