At the 2009 NAMM Show, Eastwest/Quantum Leap introduced Quantum Leap SILK – a virtual (software) instrument that features a collection of historic and unique string and woodwind instruments from China, Persia and India.

I was able to check SILK out at NAMM, and it’s an awesome-sounding sound library that’s likely to see a lot of work on soundtracks.

The instruments featured in SILK are multi-sampled and feature extensive articulations, interval sampling (where appropriate), round robin (alternate samples) and phrases to give the feeling of smooth effortless performance.

SILK also allows users to adapt the instruments using dozens of useful micro tunings in the key of their choice.

Here’s a demo from NAMM of Silk in action:

“Intended as an extension of Quantum Leap RA, Quantum Leap SILK looks to give users access to rare instruments from across Asia played masterfully by renowned artists,” says Quantum Leap Producer Nick Phoenix. “Extensive scripting is employed in SILK along with our PLAY 64-bit (with 32-bit capability) sample engine, offering composers a lot of control over the end result.”

Instruments Featured:

• CHINA: erhu, zhonghu, gaohu, pipa, guzheng, yangqin, sheng, suona low, suona high, dizi low, dizi hi, xiao and bawu.
• PERSIA: electric cello, kemenche, nay, duduk, tar, qanun and 30 piece string section.
• INDIA : dilruba, sarod, tanpura and bansuri.