NI intros Kontakt Player, Maschine Drum, Mutations
updated 04:30 pm EDT, Wed August 5, 2009
Native Instruments apps
Native Instruments on Wednesday introduced several new products including Kontakt Player, Maschine Drum Selection and Evolve Mutations. Kontakt Player works as a software instrument based on the company's Kontakt 3.5 sampler, with support for Kompakt and Intakt formats. The player takes advantage of 64-bit systems, extended memory addressing, DFD streaming and multiprocessor configurations with up to 16 cores.
A graphic "performance view" is available for most instruments, while direct MIDI Learn can be used with all sliders and knobs. The software integrates over 18 effects and supports VST, AU and RTAS plug-in formats including Pro Tools for Leopard. Users have access to the same playback and import functionality as Kontakt 3.5, but without the in-depth editing capabilities of the full-featured software.
Maschine Drum Selectin provides 20 full drum kits geared for modern electronic and club music styles. The library works in conjunction with NI's Kontakt 3.5 sampler or Kontakt Player. The drum kits can be used as a standalone instrument, or as a plug-in with most popular third-party software. Drum content includes gritty urban kits, heavily processed acoustic drums and vintage analog samples, among others.
Evolve Mutations is based on the Kontakt engine and provides instruments designed for movie, TV and game composers. The sounds were developed in collaboration with the design house Heavyocity. The package includes 275 samples weighing over 2GB, with a variety of content such as instruments, rhythms and ambiences.
Rhythmic Suites includes percussive and tonal loops, with individual slices and keymapping. Percussive Kits can be used to create original percussive beds, while Stings & Transitions provides striking and suspenseful elements for transitions. Tonality & FX features expressive instruments and a variety of pads.
Kontakt Player and a complementary package of factory sounds can be downloaded for free. Maschine Drum Selection carries a price of $60, while Evolve Mutations can be purchased for $120.
