StringZ2
Key Features
- Physical modeling synthesis engine produces string ensemble and solo string tones with natural harmonic complexity
- Keyscale controls allow filter and harmonic parameters to vary smoothly across the keyboard for realistic register transitions
- Built-in reverb unit integrates directly into the voice architecture rather than acting as a simple post-effect
- Dual ADSR envelopes provide independent control over volume contour and timbral movement
- 128 factory presets by Tim Conrardy and Himalaya spanning pads, ensembles, and experimental textures
- Very low CPU footprint reported at under 3% in 32-bit hosts
Description
StringZ2 is a physically modeled string ensemble and solo string synthesizer developed by Ian Webster under the Krakli name. Built as a significant upgrade to the original StringZ, it uses physical modeling synthesis to generate string tones that range from realistic orchestral textures to more experimental pad and ensemble sounds.
The plugin introduces keyscale controls originally developed for the Rticul8r synth, allowing precise tuning of filter cutoff and harmonic content across the keyboard range. This makes it possible to shape how the string sound evolves from low to high registers, adding natural tonal variation that static patches lack.
A built-in reverb unit goes beyond simple post-processing by integrating directly into the voice architecture. This means the reverb interacts with the synthesis engine itself, contributing to the character of each patch rather than just sitting on top of the sound.
Two ADSR envelopes handle volume and timbral shaping independently, giving you control over both the amplitude contour and the spectral movement of each note. Combined with the keyscale system, this dual-envelope design allows for expressive string patches that respond dynamically across the keyboard.
StringZ2 ships with 128 presets contributed by sound designers Tim Conrardy and Himalaya, covering everything from lush ensemble pads and slow-evolving textures to the more distinctive physical modeling tones that made the original StringZ popular. Users consistently praise the plugin for its low CPU usage and its ability to produce string sounds that feel less overtly synthetic than typical budget options.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is StringZ2 only available as a 32-bit plugin?
Yes, StringZ2 is a 32-bit VST plugin for Windows only. It was built with SynthEdit and never received a 64-bit update. You can still use it in 64-bit DAWs through a 32-to-64-bit bridge like jBridge or the built-in bridging in some hosts.
What kind of sounds can StringZ2 produce beyond basic strings?
While it excels at string ensembles and pads, the physical modeling engine can generate more experimental tones including metallic textures, evolving ambient pads, and resonant plucked sounds. The 128 presets demonstrate a wide range well beyond traditional orchestral strings.
Can I run multiple instances of StringZ2 simultaneously?
Users on multi-core systems have reported stability issues when running multiple instances, which is a known limitation of some SynthEdit-based plugins. Running a single instance at a time is recommended for the most reliable performance.
How does the keyscale control work in StringZ2?
The keyscale controls let you adjust how the filter cutoff and harmonic content change across different keyboard regions. This means notes played in the bass register can have a different timbral character than those in the treble, creating more natural and expressive string sounds.
