HandheldSound, a developer specializing in sample libraries and virtual instruments for Native Instruments’ Kontakt sampler, offers a selection of free digital products known as "freebies." These offerings are designed to provide high-quality instrument libraries to users at no cost, licensed for use in personal or commercial projects. The company, known for its award-winning FlyingHand Percussion library, has made these resources available as part of its product catalog and promotional efforts. The free instruments include custom graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and scripts that provide flexible features, aiming to replicate the sonic nuance and control of live performance.
The current list of available freebies includes Table Drum, PianoBoom, Claps’n’Stomps, Tin Can, MiniNaal, and Metal Skewer & Cabasa. These instruments cover a range of percussive and tonal sounds, from ethnic percussion to piano-based impacts and effects.
Available Free Instrument Libraries
HandheldSound provides several distinct free libraries, each based on specific sampling techniques and source materials.
Mini Naal This library offers raw, ethnic Tabla-like sounds. It is derived from the award-winning FlyingHand Percussion library but represents a free, scaled-down version. The Naal is described as an Indian percussion instrument that is considered the folk relative of the Tabla. It is a barrel-shaped drum with Treble and Bass sides. While the playing technique and tones resemble the Tabla, the Naal is characterized by a more robust and raw sound. The free version includes several essential articulations and samples from one microphone position of the full library.
PianoBoom PianoBoom focuses on creating piano drones, impacts, and sound effects. The sound originates from a Yamaha Grand Piano that was sampled while being played with large Gong mallets. The piano lid was removed to allow direct access to the strings. This method produces tones ranging from deep cluster impacts to resonant drones. The library includes samples of the entire piano range, with a variety of articulations mapped based on playing style.
Other Freebies The collection also includes libraries named Table Drum, Claps’n’Stomps, Tin Can, and Metal Skewer & Cabasa. While specific details for these instruments are not provided in the source material, they are listed as part of the standard freebie package available on the HandheldSound website. All instruments in the free collection feature a custom GUI and script to enhance user control and playability.
Product Features and Technical Specifications
HandheldSound’s approach to their sample libraries, including the free offerings, emphasizes "extreme sampling" and deep sampling techniques. This process involves capturing a vast array of multi-sampled articulations and microphone perspectives. The libraries are powered by custom performance scripts designed to bring the instruments to life with authenticity and expressiveness.
The free instruments are compatible with the full retail version of Native Instruments Kontakt 4 and higher. They are provided as digital downloads and are watermarked. According to the company, the libraries are licensed to the user for use in any project, implying royalty-free usage for the free products.
HandheldSound’s focus is on producing deep-sampled instruments that play and respond with "pure authenticity." The goal is to give users the ability to express music with "unmatched realism." This philosophy applies to their entire catalog, from paid products like the FlyingHand Percussion library to the freebie section.
Accessing the Free Libraries
According to promotional information, the free libraries are available directly through the HandheldSound website. One source mentions that the first million users to register on the site would receive "deeply sampled freebies." This suggests that registration on the official website is a primary method for accessing these products.
The company encourages users to join their mailing list to receive news, discounts, and offers. The website features a dedicated "Freebies" section where the available libraries are listed. Users interested in these no-cost tools should visit the official HandheldSound domain to locate the specific download links and registration requirements.
Company Background and Relaunch
HandheldSound is the producer of the award-winning FlyingHand Percussion library, which received the Editors’ Choice Award from Electronic Musician for Best Sound Library. The company has undergone a significant relaunch and rebranding under the HandHeldSound name. During this relaunch period, the company emphasized the availability of a "generous Freebie section" and encouraged users to join the mailing list for updates and offers.
The company’s debut library, FlyingHand Percussion, was noted for its unique features and realism. The free libraries offered by HandheldSound are often presented as a "prelude" or introduction to the company's more elaborate paid offerings, giving users a chance to experience the quality of their sampling technology.
Product Catalog and Paid Offerings
While this article focuses on free products, HandheldSound also maintains a catalog of paid sample libraries. These paid products expand on the technology used in the freebies, offering more comprehensive features and deeper sampling.
FlyingHand Percussion The flagship library is FlyingHand Percussion (FHP). It has been updated to version 1.5, featuring a redesigned user interface, better handling of round robin alternates, and a single patch design that allows users to load and unload mic positions. It includes a Legato Drumming™ engine with auto nuance and gesture controls, dynamic muffling, and faster load times. It is compatible with Kontakt 4 and up.
MAD – RockScore This library is designed to blend easily within orchestral or hybrid scores. It features recordings of three iconic drum kits in a large scoring room. It offers comprehensive articulations, control over ambiance, and extended microphone blending capabilities.
Scoring Mallets HandheldSound also releases libraries such as Scoring Mallets, which are designed for specific musical scoring applications.
All paid products are sold as digital downloads. The company no longer sells physical packaged products.
User Considerations
For U.S. consumers and audio enthusiasts, the HandheldSound freebies offer a way to expand a digital instrument library without financial investment. The licensing terms, which allow use in any project, make these tools viable for both hobbyists and professional producers.
To stay informed about new free releases or special offers, users are advised to monitor the HandheldSound website and join the official mailing list. The company has indicated that registering on the site is the way to receive free libraries.
Conclusion
HandheldSound provides a collection of free instrument libraries, including PianoBoom and Mini Naal, that utilize high-quality sampling techniques. These libraries are available via the company's website and are licensed for use in various projects. By joining the mailing list, consumers can stay updated on current free offers and news regarding new product releases.