VSL have just released the final two instalments in their range of muted solo string libraries. Recorded in the large Stage A of their Vienna Synchron Stage studio, Synchron Solo Violin 2 (sordino) and Synchron Solo Viola (sordino) capture performances by Vienna Synchron Orchestra concertmaster Damir Oraščanin and solo violist Anna Firsanova, and blend seamlessly with the existing Synchron Solo line-up.
Synchron Solo Violin 2 (sordino) features Damir Oraščanin, concertmaster of the Vienna Synchron Orchestra since 2020. Much like the original Synchron Solo Violin 2, he lends the second violin a contrasting tone that VSL say makes the quartet ‘come alive’. Synchron Solo Viola (sordino) then features Anna Firsanova, solo violist of the Vienna Synchron Orchestra and co-principal violist of the Bruckner Orchestra Linz, who also performed the original Synchron Solo Viola. With the mute in place, her playing reveals a softer, more refined side of the instrument, without losing any of her individual personality.
Each collection offers essentially the same comprehensive articulation set as its original counterpart, with every note recorded using the sordino. Short notes include various spiccatos, staccatos, détachés and ricochet; long notes come with different releases and slides, while legato variants range from normal and agile to slurred, portamento and zigane. Finally, a set of sforzatos, tremolos, trills, harmonics and pizzicatos complete the collection.
As always, two versions of the library are available: Standard and Full, with the latter offering more detailed mixing capabilities thanks to a greater selection of microphone positions.
Compatibility
Synchron Solo Violin 2 (sordino) & Synchron Solo Viola (sordino) run in VSL’s Synchron Player, which is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or above, and Macs running macOS 13 and later. VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
Both libraries are available now, and are being offered at the following introductory prices until 22 August 2026:
- Standard Library: $144€129 (usually $189€169) each
- Full Library: $199€179 (usually $267€239) each
With the arrival of the new additions, the Synchron Solo Strings Bundle (sordino) is now complete, and is available at an introductory price throughout the same offer period.
