Spitfire is quickly becoming my new favorite source for sampled libraries.
Why? Well first and foremost, the dedication these guys show for making libraries that sound amazing is evident.
Second, I find that the libraries are very craft-able. By that I mean, a little tweaking here and there in MIDI, and you can draw out the authentic instrument sound you're looking for. All libraries do that to some extent. It's just that the Spitfire library recordings I make have been very satisfying to listen to later down the road -- you know, that point when they sound like someone else's music, and then you think, "Hey, that sounds pretty good. Wait, that's my stuff!"
Next I find that their user interfaces are intuitive and easy. Generally keyswitches are easy to set up. They think of things from the user's perspective, and I appreciate their attention to detail. Most impressive so far to me is the "Abbey Road Orchestra" Performance Legatos. They are truly amazing. If you're a keyboard player, especially (which I'm not), you will love how intuitive it makes playing a string instrument with a keyboard.
Finally, I appreciate how they give back. I love the free sample libraries they offer, and the fact that many libraries are so accessibly priced. The free LABS samples, for instance have been fun to play. And some of the cheapies make fun purchases, even if you're only playing around with it for an evening or two.
The ONLY gripe I have is that many of the libraries load slowly. I think this can be remedied, my dear fellows at Spitfire. It would take going at it one library at a time, but I understand there are new ways to speed up loading times for these things.
That's it. I love this company. Also, they have Homay Schmitz, whose mockup recordings I always love, and who is not difficult at all to look at during videos as, say, Paul. (Just kidding, Paul, I think your recordings and walkthroughs are fantastic, too! :)
