Berlin Strings Special Bows 2

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Unlock new textures with Special Bows 2—a dedicated collection of unconventional articulations and playing styles. From sul tasto's subtle warmth to sul ponticello's icy edge, these non-standard techniques can evoke singular moods and inspire your compositions in unexpected ways.

With 5 celli and 4 double basses—all captured in situ with multiple mics, for a vivid, realistic soundstage—Special Bows 2 can add unexpected nuance and depth to your arrangements. For even more striking results, pair it with Special Bows 1. Together, they're anything but your typical string section.

Highlights:

• Sul tasto (flautando) legato.
• Sul ponticello legato.
• Flageolet (harmonics).
• Col legno.
• 5 Celli.
• 4 Double basses.
• Multiple mic positions.
• Recorded at the Teldex Scoring Stage.

About the playing techniques

The unusual playing styles in Special Bows 2 can be used to evoke specific moods and achieve surprising expressive effects:

• Sul tasto: The player places the bow over the end of the fingerboard for a soft, warm sound.
• Sul ponticello: The player bows right next to the bridge for an eerie, icy, brittle tone, rich in harmonics.
• Flageolet: The left hand lightly touches the bowed string, producing glassy overtones.
• Col legno: The player strikes the strings with the back of the bow for a dry, percussive, sound.

New colors for your strings

Special Bows 2's extended timbral palette can be used alone, paired with Special Bows 1, or combined with Berlin Strings or Symphonic Strings to create a comprehensive, adaptable ensemble of uncommon depth.

Like all products in the Berlin Series, Special Bows 2 was recorded at Berlin's Teldex Scoring Stage with all players seated in their traditional orchestral positions. Multiple mic placements (Decca Tree, AB omni, a choice of spots, and surround) ensure a balanced, spatially coherent sound that gels beautifully with other Orchestral Tools collections.