Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 Stars
Following the release of Disco Studio Strings, Soundpaint return with Vivaldi’s Solo Violin, a refined and expressive violin library that brings the essence of Baroque string writing into the modern producer’s toolkit. Inspired by the energy and precision of Antonio Vivaldi’s music, this library focuses on what makes chamber strings so emotional: clarity, movement and a strong sense of character.
The tone is raw, dry and detailed, less about concert hall grandeur, more about the intimacy of a recording studio. It delivers that timeless, close sound that feels at home in a Baroque sonata but also blends naturally into modern pop, film scoring, jazz or even hip‑hop (think of the elegant, melodic string textures in Coldplay’s ‘Viva La Vida’).
If you’ve used Disco Studio Strings, Vivaldi’s Solo Violin will feel like a natural extension. It was recorded in the same room, with the same players and microphones, and was designed intentionally to complement its predecessor. Where Disco Strings brings lush rhythm and groove, Vivaldi focuses on finesse, articulation and the subtle expressiveness of smaller ensembles.
Technically, the recordings are excellent. The sessions were captured with a Neumann U47, AKG C414 and Royer 121‑S, along with four additional spot mics that add depth and flexibility. This gives you total control over the space: close and dry for intimacy, or slightly roomy with natural reflections for more dimension.
The first impression is how real it sounds. Slight detunes, bow noises, vibratos and fast transitions bring an authenticity that feels alive. Everything runs on the Soundpaint engine, known for its expressive response and fast loading. You can shift from lyrical legato to sharp rhythmic phrases seamlessly.
The articulation list is comprehensive and well thought out, and includes Arps & Figures (a library of musical phrases and motifs that cover a wide range of chord types and voicings); Legatos (both mono and polyphonic); Ostinatos & Runs (for movement and energy); Shorts & Sustains; and finally a SoundLab section for creative, textural experiments.
The Arps & Figures are particularly impressive as they’re not static loops. With the built‑in Time control, you can adjust the tempo of each motif, while the ADSR envelope controls let you shape how naturally each phrase releases. The Legato patches are another highlight: smooth, expressive and effortless to play, whether used for solos or layered ensembles.
Overall, Vivaldi’s Strings is an elegant, intimate and remarkably realistic library that feels instantly musical.
Overall, Vivaldi’s Solo Violin is an elegant, intimate and remarkably realistic library that feels instantly musical. When paired with Disco Studio Strings, it forms one of the most versatile and cohesive string collections in the Soundpaint line‑up. At $99, it offers outstanding sound quality and value for any modern composer or producer seeking realistic violins, both solo and ensemble.