The AcousticSamples B-5 V2 represents a significant evolution in virtual tonewheel organ technology, offering a sophisticated hybrid modelling and sampling approach for musicians seeking authentic Hammond-style sounds. This virtual instrument, available for electronic delivery, addresses long-standing issues found in earlier sample-based libraries, such as phase cancellation and lack of real-time drawbar control. The software is designed for both Windows and Mac operating systems and requires a moderately powered computer system to handle its resource demands. While the standard list price is €99, the software has been available at a promotional price of €69. Furthermore, existing owners of the original B-5 version are eligible to receive the V2 upgrade free of charge.
Product Overview and Technology
AcousticSamples B-5 V2 is a virtual instrument that emulates the complex behaviour of Hammond organs. The development team, led by Arnaud Sicard, has focused on resolving the "failings" and "quirks" of the original B-5 release. The result is a virtual instrument that is described as operating "extremely well," with a Leslie (rotating) cabinet emulation considered "very impressive" and microphone positioning and room size virtualisation rated as "superb."
The core technology behind B-5 V2 is a hybrid system that combines the best aspects of synthesis and sampling. Traditional sample-based libraries often stack drawbar samples simultaneously. This method can lead to a significant problem: phase cancellation. When a user plays the same frequency twice, the resulting sound can vary unpredictably due to these phase issues. AcousticSamples solved this by implementing a "91 frequencies synthesis approach" using real samples. This allows for the "real recorded organ tone" combined with the "real behavior" of the instrument, while retaining the versatility of drawbar controls and the tweakability of synthesis.
The library contains approximately 1100 samples. The scripting in version 2 eliminates phase alignment issues, allowing the software to pull "well ahead of other contenders" in the sample-based category. The instrument features "exceptional scripting" that allows for real-time adjustments of drawbars without glitches, pauses, or interruptions—a distinct advantage over Kontakt-driven designs.
Features and Functionality
The B-5 V2 provides extensive control over the sound generation process, mimicking the hardware of the original Hammond organs.
- Tonewheel Models: Version 2 expands the original single organ model to four distinct tonewheel powerhouses. These include a 1968 B3, a 1969 C3, a 1965 A-100, and a 1960 C3. Each model has a photo-realistic interface skin.
- Drawbars and Presets: The software offers full control over drawbar settings. It includes approximately 200 drawbar presets that can be changed while playing. The lower octave preset keys (black keys) are assignable for both Upper and Lower manuals.
- Vibrato and Chorus: The instrument features sample-based Vibrato and Chorus for C1, C2, C3, V1, V2, and V3.
- Percussion System: A fully customizable and accurately reproduced percussion system is included.
- Volume and Pedals: The swell pedal volume change is precise and based on actual measurements.
- Key Contact and Foldback: The software models "real key contact" behaviour. It also features an adjustable foldback system in the bass end.
- Modifications: All common organ modifications are available, including foldback removal.
The Leslie emulation is a standout feature. It is described as "stellar" and contributes significantly to the "sonic realism" and "hands-on performance credibility" of the instrument.
Performance and System Requirements
Due to the "meticulous modeling technology" used for the instrument and the Leslie emulation, a moderately powered system is recommended. However, the developer has actively worked to optimize the software. Resource demands have been reduced by "perhaps as much as 35 - 40 percent" compared to earlier versions.
System Requirements
Windows: * Host application compatible with AAX Native, VST plugins. * Operating System: Windows 7 & 8. * Processor: Pentium IV 2GHz or Athlon XP 2GHz. * RAM: 1 GB. * Support: 32 & 64 bit.
Mac: * Host application compatible with AAX Native, Audio-Unit, VST plugins. * Operating System: OS 10.7 and above. * Processor: Macintosh Intel 1.5 GHz. * RAM: 1 GB. * Support: 32 & 64 bit.
Pricing and Availability
The AcousticSamples B-5 V2 is sold via electronic delivery. At the time of the review, the software was available for a limited time at a promotional price of €69. The standard list price is €99.
Crucially, AcousticSamples provides the V2 upgrade free of charge to users who had already purchased the original version. This offer is described as a "generous" gesture to reward existing customers.
Installation and Licensing
Installation is described as "about as easy as it gets." Regarding licensing, the software uses a copy protection system. Users have two options: machine-based activation or iLok (dongle) activation.
- iLok Dongle: The preferred method for some users to avoid data loss in case of a hard drive crash.
- Machine-Based Activation: This method ties the license to a specific computer. However, there is a risk involved; if the machine fails before a user can return the activation to the Pace/iLok cloud, one of the three available activations may be lost.
Comparison with Competitors
The review context places B-5 V2 in comparison with other notable virtual Hammond organs:
- GSI VB3: Previously considered the "tonewheel emulation crown" for synthesized, modeled virtual organs. B-5 V2 is presented as a strong competitor due to its hybrid approach.
- Native Instruments "B4 II": Held a significant market share but was superseded by "Vintage Organs."
- Native Instruments "Vintage Organs": A sampled suite that includes transistor compacts. It suffers from minor tuning issues, phase misalignment, and "lackluster" rotary speaker emulation.
- AIR "DB-33": Released from Pro Tools confinement, this is considered average ("meh") as a standalone solution but works better with third-party rotary cabinet plugins.
The review concludes that B-5 V2 is "well deserving of being coronated with the virtual Hammond crown," citing its operational verity and the faithful reproduction of distinct organ model tones.
Conclusion
The AcousticSamples B-5 V2 is a highly capable virtual instrument that successfully blends sampling and synthesis to overcome the phase cancellation issues common in earlier libraries. It offers four distinct tonewheel models, extensive real-time control, and a high-quality Leslie emulation. While it requires a moderate system setup and involves specific licensing considerations, the software is praised for its sonic realism and authenticity. The availability of a free upgrade for previous owners and a promotional price point of €69 makes it an attractive option for musicians seeking a convincing Hammond organ emulation.