Session Strings 2 by Native Instruments Kontakt string ensemble instrument interface

Session Strings 2: Kontakt Ensemble Strings by Native Instruments

Rated 4.9/5 on Plugin Boutique (9 ratings)

Session Strings 2 is a Kontakt instrument from Native Instruments that offers the sound of an 11-piece string ensemble, with play assistance features for building arrangements quickly.

REQUIRESKontaktHost player sold separately

Kontakt

AVAILABLE ATPlugin Boutique

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01Overview

Session Strings 2 is built for producers who need a string section that sits well in contemporary tracks. Native Instruments recorded a small modern ensemble of four violins, three violas, two celli and two double basses, and the instrument is aimed at pop, R&B, dance and modern score writing. The interface focuses on fast results, with features that help you voice chords, add rhythmic motion and shape the overall tone of the ensemble.

Best for

Pop string arrangements
R&B chord beds
Dance track strings
Modern score writing
Chord-based orchestration

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

02Key features

What you get

Detailed sound of an 11-piece string ensemble
Recorded vintage instruments by session musicians
14 articulations from legato to pizzicato
True Legato and portamento with interval-based transitions
Smart Voice Split for natural chord voicing
Smart Chord builds orchestrated chords from single keys
Rhythm Animator arpeggiator with per-step options
Master multi-effect control for ensemble tone

03In depth

Ensemble Sound and Expression Controls

The strings were captured at a German studio using vintage instruments played by session musicians. Native Instruments describes the sound as intimate and detailed, which suits arrangements where strings need to sit close to the mix rather than sound like a large orchestral backdrop.

Expression is handled through 14 articulations, including accent, pizzicato, crescendo, legato and portamento. These let you shape individual notes and phrases without leaving the instrument.

Play Assistance for Faster Arranging

Session Strings 2 includes several play assistance tools. True Legato and portamento set a correct transition for each interval. Smart Voice Split assigns notes to the appropriate instrument group so chord voicings stay natural.

Smart Chord generates a fully orchestrated ensemble chord from a single key. The Rhythm Animator is an arpeggiator with assignable articulations, chords and note options for each step, which helps add motion to sustained harmony. A master multi-effect control lets you change the character of the whole ensemble with one knob.

04Specs