Reaktor ensembles: which are your favorite ones?
So, I finally started using Reaktor (better late than never I guess).
This modular synth probably doesn’t need an introduction. Native Instruments calls it an extremely versatile and powerful tool, and they’re not kidding! From a simple FM synth, to a drum sequencer or a comprehensive effect machine… Reaktor can be pretty much anything you want it to be.
It comes with a bunch of great ensembles, and I’ve browsed the Reaktor User Library to see what user content is available (a whole lot!).
I’ve already picked up a few great things from the usual suspects like Dieter Zobel, Rick Scott and Stephan V, but I’d like to see which ensembles are your favorites, and why. Save me some time you know…
Oh, and I’m especially interested in any ensembles which aren’t available from the NI User Library, the gems no one really knows about (yet…)
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Don’t use Reaktor myself but heard good things about the Tim Exile ensemble (sort of a live looper/beat slicer).
Thanks Avner, that would be the Exile Keymasher Micro I guess. Will check that!
My favorite Reaktor ensembles depend on the kind of track I’m working on. Sometimes I use self-built loop-mangling devices, sometimes I use modified generative sequencers like Sequins, sometimes I use stuff from James Walker Hall’s packs (sampler pack, FX pack) to get specific things done. Apart from the free stuff in the UL I like Eletronic Instruments 2: Photone is a great synth, and Resochord is perfect to imprint harmonies on otherwise noise-like stuff (like percussive field recordings). It’a a journey; good luck!
Boy do I need more hours in a day…
So far I’ve been very happy with these:
- Koyaanisqatsi
- Carbon 2 reMix v2
- Fatcat
Flakes
Wake ( and “Wake Random” )
some amazing new ones :)
The “vintage suitcase” by Jonathan Style has some nice sounding analog emulations. Very usable. At the other end of the spectrum I like Metaphysical Function from the EI2 package.
Thanks Felix and Peter for the suggestions!
Let me remove the sticky note to this post, I’m finding everyone likes different ensembles and they all have their use (well most of them anyway). It’s going to take years to get through all of the goodies hidden in the User Library.
I’ll try to follow Ken’s advice (who sold me Reaktor): When I find something useful, I will actually use it!