Best Service has announced the release of Qanun, a virtual instrument developed by multi-instrumentalist Bassam Ayoub for the Best Service Engine Player. This library provides a highly detailed representation of the traditional Middle Eastern zither (psaltery), focusing on the nuanced performance techniques and microtonal systems essential to the genre.
The library is built upon a sample set featuring up to 16 round robins and multiple velocity layers per note. It includes 22 different articulations, such as mutes, trills, vibrato, and tremolo, which can be triggered via MIDI keyswitches. A key technical feature is the inclusion of authentic microtuning presets—including Bayati, Rast, Saba, and Seka—allowing users to perform within traditional Maqam scales without external pitch processing.
The instrument’s interface offers a range of adjustment parameters for tone shaping. Users can control the balance between various microphone positions and apply internal effects including reverb and delay. The library is intended for both traditional Middle Eastern compositions and modern cinematic scores requiring authentic organic textures.
Key Features
- Sampled Middle Eastern Qanun developed by Bassam Ayoub.
- 22 articulations including various tremolos, mutes, and trill styles.
- Authentic microtuning system with dedicated Maqam presets.
- Up to 16 round robins and multiple velocity layers for realistic phrasing.Integrated internal effects and microphone position controls.
- Runs in the included Best Service Engine 2 player.
System Requirements
- Platform: Mac (macOS 10.12 or later).
- PC (Windows 8.1 or later).
- Processor: 2GHz Intel or Apple Silicon (Mac); 2GHz Intel (PC).
- RAM: 4GB minimum.Formats: VST, AU, AAX, Standalone (32-bit and 64-bit).
- Copy Protection: Best Service internal activation (no iLok required).
Price: $99. A crossgrade is available for owners of Arabic Oud or Arabic E-Oud for $69.
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