A definitive virtual steel pan collection featuring five instrument types, solo and ensemble presets, and performance controls, created by Andy Narell with pans tuned by Ellie Mannette.
Purpose and Legacy
This virtual instrument captures the sound of the modern steel pan as developed by Ellie Mannette, a pioneering tuner, and performed by Andy Narell. The collection includes five steel pan types, each representing a distinct voice in the steel orchestra. Twenty-one Mannette instruments and a vintage tenor pan are included, offering the tonal range of the full family.
The source materials come from the personal collections of both artists, with Narell performing and balancing each sample. Mannette tuned the pans for the sessions. This legacy project aims to provide an authentic steel pan sound for contemporary music production.
Key Capabilities
The instrument offers solo and ensemble presets, allowing users to play individual pans or layered sections. An intuitive GUI console groups instruments to individual faders, making it easy to mute or solo specific groups. Performance enhancements include a rolls feature, a harmony function for authentic chords, and keyswitches for quick setting changes.
A dynamic touch control helps access the full tonal and dynamic possibilities of the pans. The collection spans the entire dynamic range, from intimate solo passages to the broad sound of a full steel orchestra. Built-in effects further shape the sound.
Workflow and Integration
This instrument runs on the Kontakt player engine and is NKS compatible, allowing smooth integration with supported hardware and software. The GUI provides direct control over instrument groups, facilitating quick adjustments during composition. The preset structure lets users explore different steel pan combinations without complex routing.
The keyswitches enable rapid changes between settings, useful for live performance or arranging. The harmony function simplifies creating authentic chords, while the rolls feature adds realism for sustained notes. These tools streamline the workflow for producers and composers.
Practical Applications
Suitable for steel band music, jazz, film scores, and electronic music, this collection brings a authentic steel pan voice to any genre. The solo presets work well for melodic lines, while ensemble presets can create a full orchestral backdrop. The dynamic control allows for expressive playing, from soft, ethereal textures to bold, festive passages.
The instrument is useful for adding color to pop productions or world music tracks. With a wide tonal range, it can serve as a lead instrument or as part of a rhythmic section. The balance of detail and ease of use makes it a practical choice for studio and stage.
Key features
- Five types of steel pans: Tenor, Double Second, Triple Guitar, Tenor Bass, and Bass
- Solo and ensemble presets
- Intuitive controls to mute and solo instrument groups
- Built-in effects
- Dynamic touch control
- Rolls feature for authentic sustained notes
- Harmony function for chords and intervals
- Kontakt player engine and NKS compatibility
Best for
Best for composers and producers seeking a realistic steel pan sound for jazz, film scoring, or world music, offering both solo and ensemble options with expressive controls.