PulseSetter Sounds – Cello Ibrida

Cello Ibrida combines various sampling and sound design techniques in an advanced interface. Rather than focusing on a single traditional library concept, we combined several approaches to create modern sounds that retain an organic feel. A group of cellos were recorded to create textural articulations and multisamples. These recordings were then processed to create pulsating basses, hybrid plucks, pads, and effects.

The Matrix interface features a two-layer system, with each layer having its own effects chain, oscillator, sequencer and gate. But the real magic happens on the Matrix page , where two macro controllers, two sequencer envelopes and velocity-controlled modulators can be individually assigned to the master effects, chord generator and detuner. This allows even the simplest sounds to constantly change and evolve. In addition, we have added the ability to assign MIDI CCs to crossfade, macro controllers and oscillator parameters (speed/depth), so composers can modulate these parameters in real time, creating a truly living sound design tool.

We love sound design, and recording the cello group was just the beginning. The process also involved sacrificing a cheap blue cello, which we distorted extensively during recording. We also used Gabriel DiMarco’s gorgeous cello, a Moog Sub37, and an Arturia MatrixBrute, and then ran cello multisamples through Eurorack and tape machines. We call all of these “sound sources” – there are about 260 of them. We created over 500 snapshots from them, but even that’s not the limit! You can combine them and create your own.

We decided to start by recording a cello group playing changing orchestral textures as the basis for the sound design process. The idea was to build on that and create pads, but we kept experimenting. We also recorded some basic multisamples and processed each note individually to create distortion, overdrive, or simply ran them through granular processors to create short and long notes. Since everything was done with circular repeats and multisampling (with pitch shifting), it was a labor-intensive process, but it was worth it. With individual notes, textures, and pads, the next step was to create bass loops.

Most of the library is based on the bass and lower mids, where the cello finds its most distinctive sound. The clean sound of the cello’s bass strings gives it a very deep, almost physical feel, which is perfect for cinematic sound design. We also recorded a full-sized student cello, which was not only ugly, but also very aggressive sounding. Not the tone that suits orchestral passages, but a great option for horror sounds. Squeaks, stick strikes, detuned strings and loosened pegs create a recognizable sound, reminiscent of many horror soundtracks. These sounds were also further processed and turned into loops, which work great as a rhythmic base.

Once we were done, it was clear that the library needed a brighter, more modern sound, so we sampled the Moog Sub37, Arturia MatrixBrute and Virus TI synths. This expands the possibilities by allowing composers to choose any of the 260 patches as a sound source in dual layer mode to create their own unique snapshots (real cello, hybrid cello, SFX cello or synth). We made over 500 presets, but we highly recommend creating your own.

Another handy feature of our advanced matrix engine is the ability to assign MIDI CCs to the crossfade, macro controllers, and oscillator. When paired with a Motion Leap controller , Cello Ibrida will give you hours of fun playing sounds with simple hand movements in the air. Motion Leap can also be used with any library or synthesizer that supports MIDI CCs.

PulseSetter Sounds aims to create an alternative orchestral library for composers working on video games, modern TV shows and films. Recording real orchestral instruments and using unique sound design techniques is not only fun, but we are sure it will be incredibly useful for inspiration, filling gaps or adding a modern sound to your orchestral music without attracting too much attention. We hope you enjoy this product.