Toontrack have announced the release of two new ‘Melodic Percussion’ expansions for their EZkeys 2 software, each of which includes two instruments recorded at the Galaxy Studios in Belgium. We have the details…
Melodic Percussion – Wood EKX
As obvious in soundtracks and classical arrangements as in anything from pop and rock to hip-hip and various offshoots of electronic dance music, the marimba and the xylophone are the uncontested big two in the family of wooden melodic percussive instruments. The dark, rich, full, earthy and plucky sound of the marimba is as ideal for arpeggios and leads in an EDM track as it is for a dramatic segue in a film. Equally, the more accentuated, bright and dry tone of the xylophone is an amazing and piercingly effective melodic voice in any context it’s used.
This EKX was recorded with an array of microphones, including a generous selection of close mics positioned to pick up the immediate attack and body of each instrument, and several mics positioned around them for complete surround sound compatibility in up to 5.0 systems. In addition, the marimba was also recorded in the smaller Studio 1 room of Galaxy Studios to offer an even more intimate take on the same instrument.
Aside from the instruments, this EKX also includes a basic library of MIDI unique to the product as well as a broad collection of presets showcasing the sounds and microphone options in anything from the scaled-down to the monumentally big.
Melodic Percussion – Metal EKX
This EKX for EZkeys 2 includes two melodic percussion staples: a vibraphone and a glockenspiel, heard not only in countless classical arrangements but also across all genres of popular music. The vibraphone, with its vivid tremolo and sustained colorful, metallic timbre, boasts a strikingly distinct character. Likewise, the glockenspiel, with its curious tinkle and bright, bell-like tone, simply has an inimitable harmonic voice able to cut through in any musical context. Undoubtedly, if you’re looking for percussive and melodic instruments that have an extraordinary ability to carry melodies that sing, ring and soar, these two gems are essential.
To offer flexible use in anything from the full-scale and orchestral down to the intimate and natural, the setup used to capture the two instruments boasts an array of different microphones. These mics are used to give you mix-ready presets showcasing the instruments in all imaginable mixes, tonalities and colours. In addition, the vibraphone was recorded in both the main hall and the smaller Studio 1 room as well as sampled with mallets and a violin bow, offering three completely opposing tonal takes. Aside from the instruments themselves, this EKX also includes a basic library of MIDI enabling you to start creating from the get-go.
Pricing & Availability
Melodic Percussion - Wood EKX and Melodic Percussion - Metal EKX both require Toontrack’s EZkeys 2 virtual instrument software (read our review here) and are available now priced 89 Euro.