While there is no shortage of Kontakt strings libraries out there, this one is unique and worth a look. Several years ago I reviewed Traveler by Tonsturm, a Doppler effect plugin that is both graphically and sonically stunning. Recently, the German company has released their first Kontakt instrument called Spiral Strings and after exploring it I’m hopeful they plan to release more.
KONTAKT STRINGS WITH A SOUND DESIGN MENTALITY
Spiral Strings is a two-layer device each with identical controls that can be set independently. The black and white interface belies the amazing colors possible with Spiral Strings. Main layer categories include sul ponticello, stir, tremolo, harmonic, titan, legato, dissonant, and rip.
There are lovely scratchy bowed sounds that percolate with sizzling harmonics. Each layer can be mixed with three mic positions (close, body, and room) and ADSR settings.
But one of the things that make these sounds unique is the instrument itself. The Spring Cello (seen in the featured image above and detailed image below) is a custom instrument built by Tonsturm that uses cello strings attached to drums by 3m long strings. Instead of the body of the cello resonating, the drums resonate creating unique textures not otherwise possible.
The recordings are based on improvised performances by a cellist named, Matthias from Cologne. I was curious how the instrument was recorded and happily found that information on their website:
CLOSE MICS: Schoeps MK 41 with CMC 6xt preamp
EFFECTS: Pultec EQP-1A – Fairchild 670
BODY MICS: MS with Sennheiser MKH 8020 and MKH30
EFFECTS: Neve 1081 Channel Strips – API 2500
ROOM MICS: 2 x Sennheiser MKH 8020 and Sennheiser MKH 8050 Mixed
EFFECTS: Manley Massive Passive – Manley Vari-Mu Chandler Curve Bender – Neve 2254E
MODULATION
While the unmodulated sounds are great unaltered, things get really fun when you explore the modulation section that includes 3 LFOs and 2-step sequencers with my favorite parameter–Random. I was able to get some nice playable modulation by mapping filter parameters to my MIDI controller as an LFO was running. Modulation can be applied to volume, tone/distortion, and two filter parameters (cutoff and resonance).
FX SECTION
The effects section has a filter (LP, BP, HP), distortion, and tape saturation choices and is able to get a surprising degree of variety perhaps due to the richness of the sound source. Another unusual feature is the use of true stereo convolution reverbs based on Tonsturm’s unique IRs (Impulse response files). The Forest and Mountain IRs are particularly good.
MUTLI-LAYERS
Things get even more complex when you bring in the second layer allowing for rhythmically active sounds to be combined with sustained timbres or counter-rhythms. The possibilities are really endless. I spent a few hours just exploring different combinations. I found combining close mic’d rhythmic content with room mic’d sustained elements created an engaging three-dimensionality.
EXAMPLES
Below are a few sound examples recorded without any post-processing effects.
Using Rip and Sul Pont sources
Using Stir and Titan sources
Using Legato and Dissonant sources
Arpeggiated line with short attack setting
SPECS
The instrument worked well with Kontakt 7 running in Logic Pro on a Mac M1 laptop and is compatible back to Kontakt 6. Samples take a moment to load as is expected with high-resolution content. The download size is beefy at around 23 GB, but well worth it in my opinion.
CONCLUSION
If you want delicious and scratchy string goodness that goes beyond traditional string instruments and extended playing techniques, Spiral Strings is for you. The instrument is well-crafted and sports a no-nonsense interface that gets right to the point. Even those with limited experience will have no problem making unique sounds from ethereal, unworldly ambience to complex rhythmic structures. From a company that specializes in sound effects and effects processing software, Spiral Strings represents a perfect marriage of sound design and playability.
Compared to other sound-design-based libraries, Spiral Strings may appear lacking in features. But it is this very simplicity that I find attractive. Weeding through the bells and whistles of some instruments can be exhausting and counter-inspiring. This instrument has an immediacy that gets you in the zone and keeps you there. I can’t wait to hear what else Tonsturm has up its sleeve.
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