themki: Expressive Electro-Mechanical Instrument for Kontakt

Introducing themki: A Unique Electro-Mechanical Sampling Instrument

Themki is a deeply sampled instrument designed to capture the mechanical clicks, noises, and imperfections of a classic electro-mechanical machine over 50 years old. Developed as an evolution of the Cassette series, it features 16 dynamic layers, release and mechanical samples, all processed through tape to preserve an authentic vintage sound.

Advanced Sound Engine and Polyphonic Modulation

Built on the engine introduced in Tapes.01, themki takes a different direction tailored to its sampled material. It offers an Animated mode (previously called Swarm mode) with polyphonic modulation, where each layer runs independently and supports MPE compatibility. This allows users to combine standard polyphonic playback with sequenced or granular modes, or mix two Single or two sequenced/granular modes for versatile sound design.

Instrument Modes and Layer Sequencing

Themki includes 16 instrument modes designed to simplify use while encouraging deep exploration. Each layer has a 16-step sequencer available in both Animated and Single modes, acting as a voice-specific modifier. Users can assign different sound sources to specific notes, shift octaves, reverse notes, detune, or adjust sample start positions. For example, one layer might play classic ’70s soul-style notes, while another fades in granular micro-loops controlled by the mod wheel or MPE controller.

Extensive Content and Compatibility

The instrument contains 10.50GB of samples, 12,507 samples in total, and 500 presets. It works with the free Kontakt Player 7.10.7 or higher, compatible with macOS 12 to 15 and Windows 10 or 11. System requirements include an Intel Core i5 or equivalent CPU, Apple Silicon, and at least 8GB of RAM. An internet connection is needed for download and activation, but the product can be used offline once installed.

Features