Tonsturm has released a new Kontakt instrument library that delivers a groundbreaking fusion of classical strings and resonant drums, creating a soundscape like no other.
The dual-layer Spiral Strings brings the sounds of an instrument with 2 classical cello strings that are attached to 3 meter long springs. The sound is transferred by the springs to a pair of connected drums that replace the normal body.
It was clear from the beginning that we only could do justice to the sound of the Spring Cello by capturing “performances” instead of sterile and separated tones. Matthias – professional Cello player from cologne – did a great job taking our crazy notes regarding unusual play styles. But we also wanted the instrument to be something you can really work with – so every play style is bound to it’s key note and the musical scale.
We recorded at a big studio in the Netherlands with the most low-noise sounddesign microphones and on the other side the most insane collection of vintage and modern Hi-End gear grails.
Spiral Springs comes with 8 playing styles, from regular legato to Sul Ponticello, titanium sticks, and more. It has 3 mic positions, 3 round-robins (10-15 seconds long), and you can blend and control both layers of the instrument with various parameters.
The instrument also has a powerful modulation matrix and various effects, including a true stereo convolution which gives the instrument a new dimension.
Take a listen to some impressions below.
Sounds interesting? Then you’ll be happy to hear that Tonesturm is offering you the chance to win one of two free copies of Spiral Strings (regular $179 USD ex. VAT where applicable).
Leave a comment below and the lucky winners will be picked from all entries submitted before the end of Sunday December 17th, 2023 (one entry per person allowed).
Good luck, and make sure to check the Tonsturm website for more details on Spiral Strings.
