Ancient World: Instruments of Antiquity

Ancient World: Instruments of Antiquity represents a significant resource for composers seeking authentic period instrumentation beyond the standard orchestral palette. Big Fish Audio and Funk/Soul Productions have assembled an extensive collection built on luthier Nikolaos Brass' meticulously reconstructed ancient Greek instruments, complemented by carefully selected medieval and Mediterranean examples. The library encompasses 32 multi-sampled instruments organized across strings, winds, and percussion, with sampling depths reaching up to 30 articulations per note in some cases.

The technical execution demonstrates serious attention to performance realism. String instruments include plucked, vibrato, harmonics, plectrum, tremolo, arpeggio, glissando, and behind-the-bridge techniques. Wind and percussion instruments receive similar comprehensive treatment, while looped performances - over 400 of them - provide starting points for composition or direct implementation. The Kontakt 5.8.1 engine handles the nearly 4 GB of content efficiently, with 146 unique patches offering flexibility in sound design and arrangement.

This collection serves distinct professional needs. Film and television composers working on historical dramas, documentaries, or fantasy productions will find immediately usable material with authentic tonal characteristics. Video game developers benefit from the same strength. Unlike synthesized approximations, these recordings capture the subtle imperfections and harmonic complexity inherent to period construction methods and materials.

Ancient World distinguishes itself through source material authenticity rather than novelty. The inclusion of extremely rare instruments like the Syntonon - with only two or three existing worldwide - provides access otherwise unavailable to most composers. For those requiring period-appropriate instrumentation with documented research backing the recreations, this library offers practical utility at a professional level. NKS compatibility ensures seamless DAW integration for modern production workflows.