Simple-Media has released Bowin, a hybrid virtual analogue and physical modelling, bowed strings synthesizer.

Bowin uses a mix of analogue synthesis and physical modelling to recreate the sound of bowed strings. Covering a range of instruments and playing styles Bowin offers a level of control that is not possible with sample based instruments, is easy to use and has a warm natural character that makes it ideal for a wide range of musical genres. It can recreate both solo and ensemble instruments and has a number of controls to alter the tonal quality and playing style.

Features include:

• Control over bows and strings.
• Control over body size.
• Various controls for playing style.
• Responds to mod wheel, velocity, pitchbend and aftertouch to provide play dynamics.
• Easy to use.
• Natural and expressive sound.
• Reasonable CPU load.

Bowin is available as a VST instrument plug-in for Windows and costs £10. A demo version is available, limited to two note polyphony and sound drops every 45 seconds.