This version of the library was developed by us as the 'default' version of the library. We took the samples and mapped them with no significant tweaks or changes to the sounds or their layout.

The SFZ version is the most natural, "vanilla" form of the library. It is great for ambient and calm orchestral, but may seem a little "loose" if you are used to GM soundfonts and the like. Start with this version!

The Sketching Chamber Orchestra features two dozen instruments from the VSCO2 Community Edition in only 1.25 gigs using Kontakt's lossless compression. Features reverb, ASDR control, EQ, scripted legato, faux RR, modwheel xfading, ensembles.

Bigcat's Kontakt version is arguably the most in-depth version of VSCO 2 CE out there, with tons of controls and even his 'An Orchestra' experimental chord/arpeggio instruments.

The Alpine Project collects the best public domain musical instrument samples, and combines them with clever scripting and effects in NI’s Kontakt.  The result is great sounding free sample libraries that can find a place in the beginning and professional composer's studio.

The Alpine Project combines many of the best free sample sets with some absolutely brilliant Kontakt scripting to make a very usable set of lightweight Kontakt instruments.

Orchestools One is an orchestral soundset for Sampletank featuring over 600 presets and 100 multis, based on VSCO 2 CE. *Now also updated for Sampletank 4!*

Orchestools One is a fantastic set of patches that moves well beyond the realm of 'orchestral sample library' and into the world of pads and soundscapes. If you already own Sampletank, this is your best option.

Note: Due to the aging engine, this version is not recommended!

We recommend one of the SFZ versions or Orchestools Sections (above) instead, as they are much more reliable and compatible with most DAWs.

Bigcat has made some refinements to the response and normalization of the samples. This makes it more predictable and stable at the cost of "natural realism".

Paul Battersby built a great new library based on VSCO 2: CE, Sonatina, No Budget Orchestra, University of Iowa, and other samplesets in one ultimate package. Features section and solo instruments for woodwinds, brass, strings and percussion.

Paul took the best from each of the great open samplesets out there today and put it together in one cohesive package. The Standard version uses volume-based dynamics, while the Performance version uses modwheel crossfading.

Compared to the direct use of SFZ companion files in renoise, this set of XRNI brings modulation set support, volume and mapping fixes, case sensitivity fixes, smaller download (flac vs. wav), individual instruments, and improved compatibility.

Oliver's XRNI files are a great option for Renoise users looking for complete compatibility and more flexibility. If you use Renoise, download these instead of the SFZ's or any other format.

"Brought to you by me and the awesome Ron Cavagnaro (thanks for the link), I've organized this big ass orchestral multisample (and other samples) library with heaps of different articulations into readily Deluge-loadable folders so you won't have to!"

Leonard and Ron organized the raw .wav files into a version compatible with Synthstrom Deluge by sorting the files into folders.

Also includes Miscellania I & II VSCO 1 Perc.

Orchestools Sections is a NEW VST3 series based on VSCO 2 CE.

Orchestools 306 is based on the bonus samples in VSCO 2 CE.

Orchestools Keys is based on the keyboard instruments in VCSL.

Orchestools instruments provide unprecedented access to modulation, parameters, and include some really great presets. Ilir's presets in many cases transcend the orchestral source into very creative and interesting places sonically.

"This little library is my gift to all of you after this strange, strange year of unconventional circumstances and crazy events. For a time now I have wanted to do something with VCSO Community Edition and this library is the end result."

Omnisphere users rejoice! VSCO 2 CE now has an Omnisphere version, crafted by Man Makes Noise. A great selection of trailer-esque and 'Hybrid' style sounds suitable for adding all kinds of orchestral flavor to any track.

If you want ultimate functionality, you can download the original .wav samples and build your own instruments in any format you desire! Licensed under CC0, you can do whatever you want with these. **Includes VSCO 1 Percussion & Miscellania 1&2.

If 3,000 samples sounds a bit daunting, don't worry, we put together a 256-sample pack and a 50-sample pack for casual designers (see below). Try creating a piece using only 10 samples and see what you can come up with!