VSL’s Duality Strings family offers a unique take on string libraries, simultaneously capturing a large string ensemble performing on Stage a of the Vienna Synchron Stage, along with a smaller group playing in the drier acoustic of Stage B. As a result, users are able to blend seamlessly between a lush, cinematic character and a more intimate and focused close-miked sound.
Duality Strings (Ostinato) is the sixth instalment in the series, and as its name suggests, focuses entirely on the creation of repeating rhythmic phrases. Of course, VSL are famed for their meticulous approach to sampling, so it’s no surprise to hear that the new offering takes a unique approach to recreating ostinatos. Rather than relying on pre-recorded patterns and fixed tempos, the library is built from single notes that have been derived from recorded ostinato performances. The captured notes are reassembled in real time by the company’s Synchron Player, a method which VSL say delivers natural transitions, lifelike variations and convincing rhythmic motion, all whilst avoiding the mechanical-sounding repetition that occurs with loop-based alternatives.
Articulations include short and long détachés, spiccatos and expressive legatos, all of which have been recorded specifically for ostinato performance and boast between five and eight variants for intervals and repetitions. Additional articulation sequences allow for realistic bowing patterns, from simple alternating strokes to more complex combinations. Users of the first instalment of Synchron Duality Strings also benefit from a combined preset that adds sforzatos, tremolos, trills, pizzicatos and harmonics, offering a comprehensive and versatile toolkit for everyday composition and orchestration.
As with many of VSL’s libraries, Duality Strings (Ostinato) is available in Standard and Full versions. Both are identical in terms of articulations, but the Full library includes an additional set of microphone signals.
Compatibility
Duality Strings (Ostinato) runs in VSL’s Synchron Player, which is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or 11, and Macs running macOS 10.14 and above. VST, VST3, AU and AAX versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
Duality Strings (Ostinato) is available now, and is currently (4 December 2025) being offered at the following introductory prices:
- Standard Library: $223€199 (usually $279€249)
- Full Library: $335€299 (usually $436€389)
