A regrettable disparity between versions that nevertheless does not stop the instruments from being very interesting due to their ready-to-use big sound that can be easily made more filthy, just the way we like it - exactly the point where many competing products fail due to their very clean sound that demands to be really worked up at the output to get some grit and width…īased around the same concept as Addictive Drums, Addictive Keys offers several meticulously sampled pianos accompanied with a series of effects and processing options that can provide the sweetest acoustic pianos with an impressive sound variety.
The Steinberg version using HALion's engine provides only a Rhodes MKI Suitcase, while the 3X version for Kontakt Free Player includes a Rhodes and a Wurlitzer, and the 5X version for UVI Engine features five instruments: the same as on the 3X, plus a Yamaha EX5 and a Dyno-My-Piano. With a clear bet on character, Gospel Musicians' Neo Soul Keys are available in iOS format as well as for the three major samplers on the market, but all versions are oddly different. Steinberg Neo Soul Keys $80 (based on HALion's engine no eLicencer, no luck) Neo Soul Keys 5x $200 (for UVI no Lok, no luck) Neo Soul Keys 3x $200 (for Kontakt Free Player) Ideally complemented by Overloud's VKFX multi-effects plug-in (that was originally conceived to work with the Scarbee electric pianos), it is a definite must considering its very democratic price ($79 or $169 in a bundle together with the Wurlitzer Scarbee A-200 and the Scarbee Clavinet, also exceptional.).
The following list is presented in no particular order: Native Instruments Scarbee Mark IĬonceived by one of the masters of sampling, this Rhodes Mark I remains, in spite of its age, the reference when it comes to virtual Rhodes, due mainly to the detailed sampling of certain characteristics of the original (release noise of each key, for example). And since the most expensive aren't necessarily the best in the eyes of the users, there is no reason not to indulge oneself with one of the most emblematic instruments in rock, jazz, soul, and blues. One thing is for sure, there are enough options to choose from if you don't want to settle for the instruments included in many sequencers and ROMplers. However, developers and publishers seem to prefer, depending on each case, a Mark I or a Mark II for the most part, and sometimes more original models. Sampled or modeled, the Rhodes has been rendered in many ways.