Dreamtonics’ Instrument X can create a digital orchestra that sounds like real musicians

As orchestras take on more and more popular applications, producers may often want to work with the real thing instead of using sample packs. Japan’s Dreamtonics is working to close that gap with Instrument X. This plugin uses AI to control the human elements of playing orchestral instruments such as breath pressure and bow friction, adding a more dynamic contrast than adjusting volume or applying stock effects. Dreamtonics calls the process “Neural Acoustics Modelling”.

Beyond individual adjustments to the playing style, Instrument X also employs “3D Sound-Field Control.” This function allows instruments to be placed in mockups of different microphone configurations, such as spot, Decca Tree, and ambient pairs.

“While it may sound incredibly difficult to transcend the static constraints of traditional sample playback to achieve a fluid, organic performance, the ‘AI-driven’ synthesis is actually the straightforward part,” says Kanru Hua, Founder and CEO of Dreamtonics. “The true challenge lies in deep-customizing this technology to satisfy the exacting, high-end demands of real-world composition and production experts.”

By approaching modulations to the sounds with Neural Acoustics Modeling, there is no need to take up huge amounts of space on a hard drive with different sample packs. The technology alters the sound waves themselves with the different notation options instead of triggering different static audio files. Moreover, the UI is modelled after standard DAWs, making the workflow transition seamless. The new adjustment options are simply parameters to experiment with.

Dreamtonics has released 11 different packs related to Instrument X. There is the free standalone version and DAW plugin, and the other 10 range from $99 to $649, offering Instrument X with software instruments, software instrument packs on their own, and a complete collection.

Learn more at Dreamtonics.

Harry Levin is a freelance journalist with credits in SPIN, Billboard, MusicTech, Grammy.com, Los Angeles Magazine, and more. His musical journey began 20 years ago with a Led Zeppelin CD. He played jazz trombone through college, produced large-scale electronic music events, and now spends his professional time writing and editing.