The Oktobass, a 3.48 meter (11.5 ft) mammoth, is the deepest concert string instrument, extending down to 16Hz. It creates a thunderous, roomshaking growl at the low notes that transforms into a sweet honey-like tone at the high notes. We've sampled this bone-rattling beast in comprehensive detail, integrated into a massive sample pack of improvised melodic phrases.
To play the Oktobass, you must climb a set of stairs onto a raised platform and operate a row of mechanical levers to control the fingerboard with your left hand, while you bow with your right. The size and cavernous resonances inside the body of the instrument produce a nuanced and complex tonal character, with intense stereo movement and subtle mechanical ornamentation when playing melodic phrases.
We worked with Giorgio Riolo and Daniele Bertinelli to capture Nicola Moneta's Oktobass at its permanent home in his private gallery in Milan, Italy. It was recorded in a large open space, using a close pair of large-diaphragm cardioid mics at the F holes to achieve a dry and intimate sound with huge tonal power.
Key Features:
- Deepest Concert String Instrument: Extends down to 16Hz, creating a thunderous growl and sweet high tones.
- Comprehensive Sampling: Massive sample pack of improvised melodic phrases.
- Unique Playing Mechanism: Requires climbing stairs and using mechanical levers to play.
- Nuanced Tonal Character: Cavernous resonances with intense stereo movement and mechanical ornamentation.
- Professional Recording: Recorded with large-diaphragm cardioid mics for a dry and intimate sound.
System Requirements
To ensure optimal performance, please verify that your setup meets the following system requirements:
Operating System:
- Windows: Windows 7 or later
- Mac: macOS 10.12 or later
Hardware:
- CPU: Intel Core i5 or equivalent
- Memory: 8 GB RAM minimum
- Storage: 10 GB available space
Note: This product is compatible with most major DAWs and has been tested for stability and performance.
