Every one of these libraries sounds and plays like the real thing down to the last nuance. They do tend to favor the grittier, funkier side of each instrument’s emotional range, but I’d also have no problem using the CEP or EEP on a ballad. Velocity layers range from eight to 20, and I dare you to find an audible switching point. KGB also includes a VST/AudioUnit plug-in called Vintage Keyboard FX, which comprises chorus, compression, overdrive, wah, delay, phaser, and amp simulation. Though you can buy VKFX separately, only KGB has yet another, bonus plug-in that perfectly simulates the filter/EQ switches on a real Clavinet.
Only two products in this roundup rise to this ultimate level of care, authenticity, and ability to inspire. Digidesign Velvet is the choice if you need a self-contained instrument plug-in (not to mention Pro Tools — remember that Velvet doesn’t do Clavs). If you prefer to work with a library in your soft sampler, KGB is king of the hill.
INSTRUMENTS
Four “electric pianos:” Classic, Expressive, Funky, and Sticky.
PREVIOUSLY REVIEWED
No.
SAMPLER FORMATS
HALion, Kontakt (shown).
PROS
Deep, thick, absolutely authentic sounds. Expertly-programmed velocity switches with tons of layers and release samples. Includes killer vintage effects plug-in.
CONS
Large memory footprint, especially if you load multiple instruments and your soft sampler doesn’t stream from disk.
BOTTOM LINE
Still the king of electro-mechanical sample libraries.