At first glance, the Kontakt interface is intimidating. It resembles a mixing console merged with a modular synth. However, the layout is logical.
Buy Chris Hein Horns Pro Complete if:
Avoid this library if:
When it comes to orchestral and pop/jazz brass virtual instruments, few names command as much respect as Chris Hein. For over a decade, the "Chris Hein Horns" line has been the industry standard for composers who refuse to settle for synthetic, thin-sounding brass. However, within this ecosystem, one product stands at the absolute pinnacle: Chris Hein Horns Pro Complete Kontakt Library. chris hein horns pro complete kontakt library
If you are a media composer, producer, or arranger looking for a brass library that offers unparalleled realism, deep customization, and a massive arsenal of articulations, you have likely stumbled upon this titan of sampling. But what makes the "Pro Complete" version so special? Is it worth the hefty price tag and hard drive space? This article dives deep into every valve, key, and dynamic layer to help you decide if this is the ultimate brass solution for your studio.
First, let’s clear up the naming convention. Chris Hein Horns is a series, but Chris Hein Horns Pro Complete (often distributed via Best Service and now Native Instruments) is the full-fat, no-holds-barred edition. It is a Kontakt Player library, meaning it runs in the free Kontakt Player (as well as the full version of Kontakt).
This library is not just a "horn section." It is a meticulously sampled collection of seven essential wind instruments, designed to cover everything from intimate jazz solos to bombastic big band stabs and epic cinematic lines. At first glance, the Kontakt interface is intimidating
The "Complete" in the title signifies that you are getting every single expansion, update, and instrument Chris Hein has designed for this series, packaged into one monstrous interface.
The true power of Chris Hein – Horns Pro Complete lies in its interface and playability.
The Note-Head System Chris Hein uses a unique "Note-Head" visualization. As you play, the interface shows you exactly which articulation layer is active and the volume curve, allowing for precise MIDI editing. Avoid this library if: When it comes to
Smart Legato & Portamento The legato is mapped to play speed. Play fast, and you get a clean transition; play slowly, and you get a realistic portamento slide. For jazz players, the "Glide" function is a game-changer, allowing for that authentic bluesy slide between notes.
Humanization A dedicated "Realism" knob adds subtle timing variations to unison notes, preventing the "machine gun" effect that plagues other brass libraries. This ensures that chords sound like a group of humans playing together, not a single keyboardist mashing keys.