Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 1.0 Kontakt May 2026
The original Session Strings was a cohesive block. Pro 2 splits the 11 players into two distinct groups: High (Violins/Violas) and Low (Cellos/Bass). You can assign these to different MIDI channels. This means you can have the High section playing a staccato melody while the Low section holds a legato bass line—impossible in the original version.
Session Strings Pro 2 is a virtual instrument library designed for the Kontakt platform, developed by Native Instruments. It is designed to emulate a modern studio string ensemble. Unlike orchestral heavy-hitters (such as Spitfire Symphonic Strings or Berlin Strings) which focus on cinematic grandeur, SS Pro 2 focuses on playability, workflow, and contemporary production aesthetics (pop, hip-hop, funk, and modern scoring).
The file string you provided indicates the initial retail release (v1.0). In the context of audio software communities, this specific nomenclature is often associated with the "scene" or pirated releases, distinct from the continuously updated versions available via Native Access.
Unlike the larger "Symphony Series" libraries, Session Strings Pro 2 focuses on a small, tight ensemble ideal for pop, rock, R&B, hip-hop, TV, and underscoring.
Session Strings Pro 2 v1.0 remains a highly capable tool for producers seeking polished, non-cinematic string sounds. It excels in genres where strings serve as a textural pad or rhythmic element rather than the lead melody.
However, the 1.0 designation is a point of concern. If you are evaluating this software for professional use:
Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
is a professional-grade virtual instrument designed for creating intimate, contemporary string arrangements. Released as a significant update to the original Session Strings Pro, it features a meticulously sampled 22-piece ensemble and is optimized for genres like pop, R&B, dance, and modern scoring. Key Features and Specifications
Ensemble Configuration: Controls a mid-sized ensemble of up to 22 players, including eight violins, six violas, four celli, and four double basses.
Detailed Articulations: Offers 26 distinct articulations such as legato, portamento, glissando, trills, scoops, and falls for realistic expression. Smart Play Assistance:
Smart Chord: Generates fully orchestrated ensemble chords from single keys.
Smart Voice Split: Automatically allocates notes of a chord to the correct instrument group for natural voicing.
True Legato: Provides realistic transitions for every note in a chord. Creative Animators:
Phrase Animator: Includes 180 flexible string arrangements for quick orchestration.
Rhythm Animator: A fully editable tool with 264 patterns for creating driving rhythmic sequences.
Sound Customization: Features two seating positions (Modern and Traditional) and a full-featured mixer page with per-section tuning, panning, and effects. Technical Details:
Size: Approximately 36.6 GB compressed (equivalent to about 69 GB uncompressed). Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 1.0 KONTAKT
Platform: Requires the free KONTAKT Player or the full version of KONTAKT. Sound Profile Sessions Strings Pro 2 - Native Instruments
Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 is a mid-sized contemporary string ensemble library designed for pop, R&B, and modern scoring. It offers an intimate, detailed sound as an alternative to large, cinematic orchestral libraries. Core Specifications Ensemble Size : A 22-piece ensemble comprising 8 violins, 6 violas, 4 celli, and 4 double basses Library Size : Approximately (compressed) to (uncompressed). Compatibility : Requires the free Kontakt Player (version 5.8.0 or higher). Articulations : Features 26 sampled articulations
, including true legato, portamento, glissando, staccato, spiccato, and various crescendos. Key Performance Features Sessions Strings Pro 2 - Native Instruments
Native Instruments released Session Strings Pro 2 1.0 on May 16, 2018, as a significant evolution of its popular contemporary ensemble library. Created in partnership with e-instruments, it moved away from the "disco" focus of the original version toward a broader, more versatile tool for pop, R&B, and modern scoring. Key Capabilities
Ensemble Size: Features a 22-piece string section (8 violins, 6 violas, 4 celli, 4 double basses).
Intimate Sound: Designed for a close, dry studio sound that sits well in modern mixes.
Massive Articulation List: Includes 26 sampled articulations, featuring true legato, portamento, and glissando. Smart Play Features:
Smart Voice Split: Automatically allocates chord notes to the correct instrument group for natural voicing.
Rhythm/Phrase Animators: Uses a 16- or 32-step sequencer to create rhythmic patterns or melodic phrases.
Smart Chord: Generates fully orchestrated chords from single keys. The 1.0 "Full Story" Context
The 1.0 release marked a complete overhaul of the series, introducing a sleek, graphical interface and enhanced customization. Sessions Strings Pro 2 - Native Instruments
Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2: The Modern Studio Standard
Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 is a professional-grade virtual string ensemble designed to bring a polished, intimate studio sound to contemporary music production. Developed in collaboration with e-instruments, this library serves as the more expansive successor to the original Session Strings Pro, offering double the ensemble size and a revamped workflow for pop, R&B, and modern scoring. Core Features and Specifications
The library provides a versatile 22-piece ensemble, significantly larger than the 11-piece standard version. It is specifically engineered to deliver a "close" and "intimate" character that cuts through dense modern mixes.
Ensemble Composition: Includes 8 violins, 6 violas, 4 celli, and 4 double basses.
Articulations: Offers 26 distinct articulations, including true legato, portamento, glissando, trills, and various crescendos. The original Session Strings was a cohesive block
Seating Positions: Two distinct recording setups are available: Traditional: Standard orchestral stereo placement.
Modern: A more centered, focused imaging ideal for modern pop tracks.
Library Size: Approximately 36.6 GB compressed (equivalent to 69 GB uncompressed). Smart Play Assistance Tools
Session Strings Pro 2 is noted for its "Smart Play" features, which allow producers without deep orchestral knowledge to create realistic arrangements. Sessions Strings Pro 2 - Native Instruments
Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 is a professional Kontakt library designed for a contemporary, intimate string sound, primarily used in pop, R&B, and modern scores. It offers a 22-piece ensemble with significant upgrades in playability and detail compared to its predecessor. Key Specifications Ensemble Size : 22 players, consisting of 8 violins, 6 violas, 4 celli, and 4 double basses Library Size : Approximately 37 GB compressed (around 69 GB uncompressed). Articulations
: 26 sampled articulations including true legato, portamento, glissando, various crescendos, trills, and scoops. Compatibility : Requires Kontakt 5.8.0 or higher or the free Kontakt Player Native Instruments Core Features Smart Play Assistance : Includes Smart Voice Split
, which automatically assigns notes in a chord to the correct instrument group, and Smart Chord for generating full orchestrations from single keys. Flexible Seating : Offers both traditional (orchestral) modern (centered)
seating positions to change the stereo field of the strings. Rhythm & Phrase Animators
: Features editable animators for creating unique rhythmic patterns and arrangements quickly. Instrument Control
: Users can customize the number of players per section and adjust individual section parameters (tuning, panning, effects) via a full-featured mixer. Native Instruments Performance and Sound Sessions Strings Pro 2 - Native Instruments
Achieving Modern String Textures with Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 is a highly detailed
library designed for contemporary production, offering an intimate, 22-piece ensemble tailored for pop, R&B, dance, and modern scores. Developed in collaboration with e-instruments
, this sequel to the original Session Strings Pro delivers a refreshed sound and a streamlined interface for faster creative workflows. Key Features and Specifications Ensemble Size
: A mid-sized contemporary ensemble featuring eight violins, six violas, four cellos, and four double basses. Library Size : Approximately
of compressed sample data (equating to roughly 69 GB uncompressed). Sound Quality
: Recorded with a focus on an "intimate" and "dry" quality, making it easier to mix into modern tracks compared to distant, orchestral-focused libraries. Compatibility : Runs in the free Kontakt Player (version 5 or higher). Expressive Articulations Session Strings Pro 2 includes 26 sampled articulations to provide realistic, nuanced expression: Legato & Portamento Articulations:
: True legato transitions for smooth, connected melodic lines. Dynamic Shorts
: Staccato, spiccato, and pizzicato for rhythmic driving parts. Modern Flourishes
: Scoops, falls, slides, and various crescendo speeds (slow and fast). : Major and minor key-switchable options. Smart Play Assistance
To help non-string players achieve authentic arrangements, the library incorporates several "smart" features: Smart Chord
: Generates fully orchestrated ensemble chords from single keys. Smart Voice Split
: Automatically allocates notes in a chord to the correct instrument group (e.g., bass notes to the double basses) for natural voicing. Rhythm Animator
: A customizable step sequencer with patterns that transform chords into realistic rhythmic phrases. Mixing and Customization The interface includes a dedicated Mixer page
where users can adjust volume, panning, EQ, and compression for each individual instrument group. Seating Positions
: Choose between "Traditional" orchestral seating or "Modern" symmetrical seating for a more centered pop feel. Color Effects : A multi-effect page with 51 convolution-based presets
to quickly change the sonic character of the strings—from vintage gramophone tones to lush hall reverbs. or compare this to the standard Session Strings 2 Sessions Strings Pro 2 - Native Instruments
Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 is a 36.6 GB KONTAKT-based library featuring a 22-piece ensemble designed for contemporary, pop, and jazz scoring. It offers 26 articulations, including true legato and portamento, alongside Smart Play tools and customizable seating arrangements for enhanced realism. For more details, visit Native Instruments. Sessions Strings Pro 2 - Native Instruments
The "Animator" Feature: One of the most distinctive features of Session Strings Pro 2 is the Animator. This is a rhythmic arpeggiator/groove engine built into the patch.
The "Smart" Chord Mode: Users can play a single key (a trigger), and the engine will generate a full chord voicing appropriate for a string section. This lowers the barrier to entry for producers without deep knowledge of music theory or orchestration.
When it comes to orchestral samples in the digital audio workstation (DAW) environment, few libraries have sparked as much debate, admiration, and utility as Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2. Released as version 1.0 for the KONTAKT Player engine, this library represents a significant evolution from its predecessor, aiming to bridge the gap between raw, synthesized string sounds and a full-blown, multi-million dollar orchestral hall recording.
For the modern producer—whether you are scoring a Hollywood trailer, producing a K-Pop ballad, or crafting deep house chords—understanding the nuances of this 11-piece string ensemble is crucial. This article dives deep into the architecture, sound design potential, and practical applications of NI Session Strings Pro 2 1.0 KONTAKT.
Subject: Analysis of Library Functionality, Architecture, and Distribution Context Library Version: 1.0 Format: KONTAKT (NKI, NKC, NKR)