Cassette Keys.02 for Kontakt by THEPHONOLOOP keys instrument interface

Cassette Keys.02 for Kontakt: Cassette-Style FM Keys Instrument

Rated 4.7/5 on Plugin Boutique (27 ratings)

Cassette Keys.02 for Kontakt is a keys instrument by THEPHONOLOOP that combines cassette-recorded samples with 80s-inspired FM-style sounds. It runs in the full version of Kontakt 5.6.6 or higher.

REQUIRESKontaktHost player sold separately

Kontakt

AVAILABLE ATPlugin Boutique

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01Overview

Cassette Keys.02 is the successor to Cassette Keys.01 and contains two instruments built around classic 1980s FM keys. The developer expanded those sounds with other synthesis techniques and a small amount of sampling for transient character. Each instrument uses five dynamic layers recorded across three different cassette decks. The package is designed to sit alongside the earlier release, and it targets producers who want vintage tonal color in a single, streamlined Kontakt interface.

Best for

Vintage keys production
Lo-fi cassette textures
Experimental sound design
Retro pop and electronic tracks
Lead and pad layering

Developer: THEPHONOLOOP
Category: Kontakt Instruments
Requires: Kontakt
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Two instruments with five dynamic layers each
2193 samples recorded across three cassette decks
41 presets included
One-page interface for fast sound design
Convolution reverb with spring, hall and corridor impulses
Choice of pre or post insert placement for reverb and delay
Simulated round-robin for faster note passages
Uncompressed 24-bit WAV source samples

03In depth

Sound Character and Layers

THEPHONOLOOP built each of the two instruments from five dynamic layers, recorded with three different cassette decks. The developer reports 2193 samples in total, including noise samples from each deck, stored as uncompressed 24-bit WAV files that total about 5.73 GB.

The instrument is intended for vintage tones, with the cassette recording character as the main identity. The developer also notes that the sounds can be pushed into stranger territory beyond the basic cassette sound.

Workflow, Reverb and Round-Robin

The one-page interface is meant for quick sound design without navigating deep menus. Convolution reverb uses custom impulses in three types: four spring, four hall and three corridor responses.

You can choose whether the reverb and delay sit before or after insert effects. The simulated round-robin adds variation to faster note passages and contributes to the instrument's nonlinear feel. Presets are included to start from, and the Kontakt version also ships with Ableton Live presets.

04Specs

Will it run?

Formats, systems and requirements as listed by Plugin Boutique. Missing details are left out, not guessed.

Developer	THEPHONOLOOP
Type	Plugin
Category	Kontakt Instrument
Requires	Kontakt
Formats	Kontakt

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What do I need to use Cassette Keys.02 for Kontakt?

You need the full version of Kontakt 5.6.6 or higher. It is not compatible with Kontakt Player.

Is Cassette Keys.02 a replacement for Cassette Keys.01?

No. The developer made Cassette Keys.02 to be different and bigger, and says the two instruments complement each other.

Which reverb types are included?

The Kontakt version includes custom convolution impulses: four spring, four hall and three corridor impulses.

Does the instrument include presets?

Yes, it includes 41 presets. The Kontakt and Ableton Live versions include presets, and the simulated round-robin is available in the Kontakt and SFZ versions.