I have Roland’s best hardware MIDI synth so I’m behind in exploring software synths.

I use Notion by Presonus to compose, and their available library has all the instruments I need for both classical and jazz. London Symphony. I prefer these sounds to the Roland. No ‘player’ needed and easy if you know notation or import Music XML.

I also have the Spitfire Studio Orchestra sounds, with strings, brass and woodwinds. Some sounds like flute are considerably better than the Notion sounds. These are from the BBC Orchestra. Not huge and only requires Kontakt player, not full. About 40% off now.


BIAB 2024 Win Audiophile. Software: Studio One 6.5 Pro, Swam horns, Acoustica-7, Notion 6; Win 11 Home. Hardware: Intel i9, 32 Gb; Roland Integra-7, Presonus Studio 192, Presonus Faderport 8, Royer 121, Adam Sub8 & Neumann 120 monitors