Karoryfer Samples has released a sample library featuring the sounds of an acoustic 2-string bass built around a curtain rod (in Polish, “karnisz”).
With over 1GB of sample content, Karniszbass includes various articulations and techniques, release noises, and acoustic sound produced using a cajon for resonance.
The two strings are tuned to D (a whole step below a standard bass’s low E) and G (a fourth above that D). Though tuned low, this instrument can produce some very high pitches via harmonics, and this library is more about textures than a normal bass playing normal bass parts. The instrument was originally built by composer Peter Lyczkowski for a production of Hamlet, where it was used mainly to bow drones and harmonics.
Available for the free sforzando sampler by Plogue (version 1.980 or higher) is on sale for the intro price of $19 USD until July 15th, 2025 (regular $39 USD).
More information: Karoryfer Samples
