Aviram Arabic Strings v2.0 is a specialized Kontakt library designed to provide authentic, high-quality Arabic string ensembles and solo instruments. Version 2.0 builds on the original with improved scripting, more articulations, and a refined user interface. Core Features and Specifications : Requires Native Instruments Kontakt
(Full Version 5.4.1 or higher is typically recommended; it often does not run in the free Kontakt Player). Sound Engine
: Features high-quality samples of violins, violas, and cellos played in traditional Arabic styles. Articulations : Includes a wide range of playing techniques such as:
: Smooth transitions between notes, essential for realistic middle-eastern melodies. Staccato & Spiccato : For rhythmic, bouncy passages. : Rapid note repetition. Trills & Ornamentations
: Specific quarter-tone vibratos and "gliss" slides typical of the genre. Key Controls and Customization
The interface is designed for quick manipulation of the "Oriental" sound: Micro-tuning (Maqam Support) Aviram Arabic Strings v2.0 -KONTAKT-
: A dedicated grid allows you to drop specific notes by 50 cents (quarter tones) to play traditional Arabic Maqams. Reverb & Delay : Built-in effects tailored to large-hall string sounds. Portamento/Glide
: Adjustable speed for the "sliding" sound between notes, which is a hallmark of Arabic string arrangements. Ensemble Size
: Options to toggle between a solo instrument and a "Big Band" ensemble sound. Performance Tips Velocity Sensitivity
: The library is highly sensitive to velocity; lower velocities often trigger softer attacks or different legato transitions. Expression Mapping
: Use the Mod Wheel (CC1) to control dynamics and vibrato intensity in real-time for a more "human" performance. Keyswitches Aviram Arabic Strings v2
: Familiarize yourself with the keyswitches (usually located in the lower octaves of the MIDI editor) to switch between articulations like pizzicato and legato on the fly. Pros and Cons Authentic "mushy" and lush Arabic ensemble tone. Higher CPU usage due to complex legato scripting. Excellent micro-tuning interface. Requires the Full version of Kontakt. Pre-mixed "out of the box" sound.
Some users find the interface slightly dated compared to modern cinematic libraries.
If you are a media composer, these three features will save you hours of editing:
1. The Maqam Snap Mode Unlike standard Kontakt instruments, Aviram Arabic Strings v2.0 understands scales. You can load a "Scale Lock" script. If you play a C, the instrument automatically adjusts the E and B to be half-flat depending on your chosen Maqam. This allows you to improvise on a standard MIDI keyboard without needing a special isomorphic keyboard.
2. Ornamentation Engine (The 3-2-1 Rule) The library includes a library of over 500 zaydeh (ornaments). You can trigger them via keyswitches (C0, D0, E0). These aren't just generic trills; they are performance-specific licks like the Sihr (a quick descending slide) or the Tahmeed (a rhythmic bow scratch). No sound: confirm Kontakt output routing, instrument volume,
3. The Ensemble Maker A common complaint about string libraries is that stacking instruments creates phase issues. Aviram solved this with the "Ensemble Maker." You can load up to 4 separate instances of the Kamancheh or Violin, de-tune them by -8 cents to +8 cents randomly, and apply a slight humanization to the attack. The result is a virtual chamber section that breathes like a live firqa.
KONTAKT is a popular software sampler developed by Native Instruments. It's widely used in music production for playing back sampled instruments. One of KONTAKT's strengths is its ability to host sample libraries, which are collections of audio samples that can be triggered via MIDI to create music.
Aviram Arabic Strings v2.0 is a Kontakt instrument library focused on Middle Eastern string timbres and articulations (legato, sustains, spiccatos, ornaments, etc.), designed for composing authentic Arabic / Middle Eastern string parts.
In the world of sample-based composition, authenticity is often the hardest currency to earn. For decades, composers working on film scores, trailer music, and world music albums have struggled with a peculiar creative bottleneck: how to capture the soul of the Takht (traditional Middle Eastern ensemble) without booking a flight to Cairo or Istanbul.
Enter Aviram Arabic Strings v2.0 -KONTAKT-. This is not merely a sample library update; it is a ground-up reimagining of what Middle Eastern string instruments can be inside a digital audio workstation. Whether you are scoring a historical epic about the Ottoman Empire, producing Arabic pop in Cairo, or adding exotic textures to a cinematic hybrid score, this library demands your attention.
Here is everything you need to know about the most comprehensive Arabic string solution on the market.