Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 is a highly detailed string library designed specifically for modern pop, R&B, and cinematic scoring. Unlike traditional orchestral libraries, it focuses on an intimate, small-to-mid-sized ensemble sound that fits perfectly into contemporary mixes. Key Specifications & Compatibility
Library Size: Approximately 36.6 GB compressed (equivalent to 69 GB uncompressed).
Ensemble Size: A 22-piece ensemble consisting of 8 violins, 6 violas, 4 celli, and 4 double basses.
Kontakt Version: Requires Kontakt 5.8.0 or higher, or the free Kontakt Player.
Instruments: Includes 10 .nki files, providing both "Modern" (centered) and "Traditional" (orchestral seating) positioning. Standout Creative Features
The library is packed with smart-play assistance tools to speed up the workflow for non-string players: Manual - Native Instruments
Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 is a professional-grade string ensemble library designed for contemporary production, offering the intimate sound of a 22-piece ensemble
. It is specifically optimized for pop, R&B, dance, and modern cinematic scores. Key Features and Specifications Ensemble Composition
: Includes 8 violins, 6 violas, 4 celli, and 4 double basses. Articulations 26 articulations
, including true legato, portamento, glissando, trills, and various crescendos. Smart Play Tools Smart Voice Split
: Automatically allocates chord notes to the correct instrument groups for natural voicing. Smart Chord
: Generates fully orchestrated ensemble chords from single keys. Rhythm & Phrase Animators
: Tools for generating rhythmic patterns and creative arrangements. Flexible Seating : Allows switching between (symmetrical) and Traditional (orchestral) seating positions. Technical Requirements To use Session Strings Pro 2, you must have the Kontakt Player (free) or the full software installed. Kontakt 7 FAQ - Native Instruments Support
| Issue | Solution |
|-------|----------|
| Library not showing in Kontakt | Refresh library tab. Or drag .nicnt file from Session Strings Pro 2/ folder into Kontakt. |
| Missing samples after update | Run Native Access → “Repair” for the library. |
| Legato sounds slow | Reduce Legato Speed CC20 to 0–30 for faster transitions. |
| CPU overload | Reduce voice limit (Settings tab) to 48–64 voices. Disable unused mic positions. |
In the top left corner of the loaded instrument, a verified library displays a small, colored NI logo. If the logo is gray or displaying a clock icon, it is not verified.
Even after Native Access verification, you might get "Missing Samples" errors if you moved the folder.
Session Strings Pro 2 folder.Once this finishes, your library is fully verified—zero loading errors, zero missing samples.
Session Strings Pro 2 remains the gold standard for "immediate, playable, and mix-ready" strings. It lacks the deep vibrato control of a solo library, but it makes up for it with instant gratification. The "Kontakt Verified" status means you can open it, play a C major chord, and within two seconds—no setup required—you have the string sound currently heard on every top 40 Billboard hit.
Ready to play. Ready to mix. Verified.
Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 is an advanced virtual string instrument designed for contemporary arrangements in pop, jazz, and R&B, offering a more detailed sound than the standard Session Strings 2. It features a 22-piece ensemble comprised of 8 violins, 6 violas, 4 celli, and 4 double basses. Key Specifications & Features
Core Content: The library includes 10 NKIs (Kontakt Instrument files) and 480 snapshots. native instruments session strings pro 2 10 kontakt verified
Ensemble Size: Offers a mid-sized contemporary ensemble of up to 22 players.
Seating Positions: Includes both Modern and Traditional seating arrangements to adjust stereo positioning.
Articulations: Features 26 articulations, including true legato, portamento, glissando, and various trills and crescendos. Play Assistance:
Smart Voice Split: Automatically allocates notes of a chord to the correct instrument group.
Smart Chord: Generates fully orchestrated ensemble chords from single keys.
Animators: Includes improved phrase and rhythm animators for creative arrangements. System Requirements Session Strings Pro 2
, you must use either the free Kontakt Player or the full Kontakt software (version 5 or higher).
Storage: Requires approximately 36.6 GB of compressed disk space (roughly 69 GB uncompressed).
Memory: A minimum of 4 GB RAM is required, though 6 GB is often recommended for larger Kontakt instruments.
OS Compatibility: Supports Windows 10/11 and macOS 12 or later (including Apple Silicon). Performance Insights
Reviewers from platforms like Sound on Sound and Gearspace highlight its "close, warm, and intimate" sound, making it ideal for pop productions where a massive 64-piece orchestra would feel out of place. While it is highly praised for its playability and realistic expression in a mix, some users note that soloed strings may still sound clearly "virtual" compared to live recordings. Sessions Strings Pro 2 - Native Instruments
While "Pro 1" (and the older "Session Strings") was popular, Pro 2 offers significant upgrades:
Verdict: Session Strings Pro 2 is a "workhorse" library. It is not designed to replace a full symphonic orchestra (like Spitfire Albion or Berlin Strings), but it is unmatched for modern production where strings need to sound tight, in-tune, and rhythmically precise.
Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 is a highly detailed, flexible contemporary string ensemble designed for the Kontakt player. If you are looking for a comprehensive guide on how to utilize its 10 GB+ library of verified high-quality samples, you have come to the right place.
Below is a deep dive into what makes this virtual instrument a staple for modern producers. What is Session Strings Pro 2?
Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 is the ultimate tool for creating realistic, modern string arrangements. Unlike massive orchestral libraries designed for film scores, this library focuses on a smaller, tighter sound. It is perfect for pop, R&B, hip-hop, and contemporary scoring. Key Specifications Library Size: Over 10 GB of uncompressed audio. Instrument Polish: Verified high-definition sample content. Engine: Runs in Kontakt or the free Kontakt Player.
Ensemble Size: 22-piece ensemble with traditional and modern articulations. Top Features of Session Strings Pro 2
The library is packed with features that allow both beginners and professionals to create stunning arrangements quickly. 1. Flexible Ensemble Sizes
You can choose between different section sizes to fit your mix. Full Ensemble: All 22 players for a lush, wide sound.
Half Ensemble: Smaller groups for an intimate, detailed sound. Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 is a
Individual Sections: Access violins, violas, cellos, and basses separately. 2. The Animator Tool
The Animator is a powerful step sequencer. It allows you to create complex, rhythmic phrases and arpeggios automatically. Turn simple chords into driving staccato rhythms. Customize velocity, swing, and groove. Access dozens of genre-specific presets. 3. Smart Voice Split
Writing for strings usually requires knowledge of voice leading. The Smart Voice Split feature does the hard work for you. As you play a chord, the engine automatically distributes the notes to the correct instruments (e.g., lowest note to the basses, highest to the violins). This results in an incredibly natural performance without manual MIDI editing. 4. Verified Articulations
Session Strings Pro 2 includes an extensive list of traditional and contemporary articulations: Legato & Sustain: For smooth, flowing melodic lines. Staccato & Spiccato: For sharp, rhythmic driving forces. Glissando & Slides: For expressive, modern pop transitions.
Scoops & Falls: Perfect for adding that classic disco or funk flavor. How to Get the Best Results in Kontakt
To make the most of this 10 GB verified library, follow these production tips inside the Kontakt engine. Optimize Your RAM
Because the library features thousands of high-quality samples, it can be heavy on your computer's memory.
Use Kontakt’s Purge function to remove unused samples from your RAM.
Enable Background Loading to let the instrument load while you continue working. Use Expression Controls
Static string samples sound fake. To make your strings sound alive, map the Modulation Wheel (CC1) to dynamics. Swell the volume up and down during sustained notes to mimic a real bow moving across the strings. Mix with Space
While the library includes great built-in reverbs and delays, turning them off and using your own dedicated reverb plugin can help glue the strings into your specific track mix. Conclusion
Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 remains one of the most versatile string libraries on the market. Its combination of a manageable 10 GB footprint, verified professional sampling, and intelligent Kontakt scripting makes it a must-have for modern music creators.
If you want to dive deeper into optimizing your setup, I can provide more specific advice. Let me know: What genre of music are you producing?
Are you running this on a laptop or a dedicated desktop studio?
Do you prefer manual MIDI programming or using auto-arrangers like the Animator?
Native Instruments Session Strings Pro 2 is a professional-grade Kontakt library
designed for contemporary pop, R&B, and cinematic scoring. It features a 22-piece ensemble and was created in collaboration with e-instruments Core Specifications Ensemble Size:
22 players, consisting of 8 violins, 6 violas, 4 celli, and 4 double basses. Library Size:
Approximately 36.6 GB compressed (roughly 69 GB uncompressed). Compatibility: Kontakt 5 or Kontakt Player version 5.8.0 or higher.
Includes 10 .nki files (individual sections and full ensembles) and 480 snapshots. Native Instruments Key Features Sessions Strings Pro 2 - Native Instruments The "Kontakt Verified" Badge In the top left
Introduction
Native Instruments is a renowned company in the music production industry, known for developing high-quality virtual instruments and software. One of their popular products is Session Strings Pro, a sample-based string instrument library designed for use with their KONTAKT player. The latest version, Session Strings Pro 2.10, has gained significant attention among music producers and composers. This paper will provide an overview of Session Strings Pro 2.10, its features, and the verification process for KONTAKT.
Overview of Session Strings Pro 2.10
Session Strings Pro 2.10 is a comprehensive string instrument library that features a wide range of articulations, dynamics, and playing styles. The library includes over 30 GB of high-quality samples, recorded in a professional studio with a team of skilled musicians. The instrument collection consists of:
The library offers a variety of articulations, including:
Key Features
Session Strings Pro 2.10 offers several key features that make it a versatile and powerful tool for music production:
KONTAKT Player
The KONTAKT player is a software sampler developed by Native Instruments, which allows users to play and manipulate sample-based instruments. KONTAKT is widely used in the music production industry and is compatible with a range of DAWs (digital audio workstations).
Verification Process
To ensure that Session Strings Pro 2.10 works correctly with KONTAKT, a verification process is required. This involves:
Verified KONTAKT Libraries
A verified KONTAKT library is one that has been tested and confirmed to work correctly with the KONTAKT player. Verified libraries are typically marked with a "Verified" logo or label, indicating that they have met Native Instruments' quality and compatibility standards.
Conclusion
Session Strings Pro 2.10 is a high-quality string instrument library designed for use with the KONTAKT player. Its advanced scripting, dynamic response, and articulation control make it a versatile and powerful tool for music production. The verification process ensures that the library works correctly with KONTAKT, providing users with a seamless and enjoyable playing experience.
Specifications
System Requirements
Conclusion and References
In conclusion, Session Strings Pro 2.10 is a comprehensive string instrument library that offers a wide range of features and articulations. The verification process ensures that the library works correctly with KONTAKT, providing users with a high-quality playing experience.
References: