EastWest have announced the upcoming release of Hollywood Strings 2, the long-awaited sequel to their popular Hollywood Strings sample library. Promising to be their most nuanced string offering to date, the new library captures a 21-piece chamber ensemble performing in EastWest Studio 2, delivering a more scaled-back sound that contrasts the existing range’s large symphonic ensemble.
The ensemble captured for the new library comprises six first violins, four second violins, four violas, four celli and three basses, and have been captured performing a wealth of articulations that cover all of the essentials along with some more unusual techniques. The samples span up to four dynamic layers, and each instrument feature three selectable Mood options: Classic, Soft and Epic. Along with the individual sections, the company have also created a Full Strings patch that captures the ensemble playing in octaves.
The company say that they employed much closer mic positions for the recording sessions than any of their previous libraries — including some attached directly to the instruments — with a choice of three separate close mics capturing each note in the finest possible detail. Main, mid-field and surround options are also present to allow users to add some more room tone where desired, and the library is also kitted out to create Atmos mixes in DAWs with immersive audio capabilities.
Hollywood Strings 2 has been created by the same team who produced the original library, with award-winning producers Doug Rogers and Nick Phoenix joined by Shawn Murphy, an Academy Award- and BAFTA-winning engineer with credits including Star Wars, Harry Potter, Schindler’s List, Indiana Jones and many more. The room itself has been the choice for soundtracks such as The Beverly Hillbillies and Hawaii Five-O, as well as playing host to bands including The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Green Day, Weezer and Metallica.
Compatibility
Hollywood Strings 2 runs in EastWest’s Opus software, which is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or above, and Macs running macOS 10.15 and higher. VST2, VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
Hollywood Strings 2 is available to pre-order now for an introductory price of $399, reduced from its release price of $499. Those who order a copy before its release on 25 April 2024 will also receive a free license for Sting Machine, worth $149. It will also be included in the company’s ComposerCloud+ subscription bundle.
