Strum GS-2 by Applied Acoustics Systems — 50% Off ($99)
TL;DR: Applied Acoustics Systems is offering Strum GS-2 at 50% off — $198 $99. This physical modeling guitar synthesizer is one of the go-to tools for realistic guitar parts without recording a real guitar. Deal runs until April 20th. Grab Strum GS-2 at 50% off here.
What Is Strum GS-2?
Strum GS-2 is a guitar synthesizer developed by Applied Acoustics Systems (AAS), a Canadian company known for their physical modeling instruments. Unlike sample-based guitar libraries, Strum GS-2 uses physical modeling technology to generate acoustic and electric guitar tones in real time. It’s designed to let producers and composers create realistic strumming patterns, chord progressions, and guitar textures directly from a MIDI keyboard — no guitar skills required.
Key Features
- Physical Modeling Engine — Generates guitar sounds through real-time synthesis rather than triggering samples, allowing for expressive, dynamic playback.
- Acoustic & Electric Guitars — Covers both acoustic and electric guitar types within a single instrument.
- Built-in Strumming Patterns — Includes a pattern-based strumming engine that translates chord input into realistic rhythmic strumming.
- Chord Recognition — Interprets MIDI chord input and maps it to guitar-appropriate voicings automatically.
- Effects Section — Features built-in effects processing for shaping tone without needing external plugins.
- Preset Library — Ships with a collection of presets spanning various guitar styles and genres.
What Producers Are Saying
Strum GS-2 has been around for several years and has built a loyal following among producers who need guitar parts but don’t play guitar. On Reddit’s r/AudioProductionDeals and KVR forums, users frequently mention it as one of the more convincing MIDI guitar solutions available — particularly for strummed acoustic parts in pop, folk, and singer-songwriter productions. The physical modeling approach is commonly praised for feeling more responsive than sample-based alternatives, though users note that no virtual guitar fully replaces a live recording.
Who Is It For?
- Singer-Songwriters & Composers — Designed for adding guitar accompaniment to demos and productions without needing a guitarist.
- Electronic & Pop Producers — Useful for layering acoustic or electric guitar textures into beats and arrangements.
- Film & Media Composers — A quick way to sketch guitar parts during scoring sessions before committing to live tracking.
- Non-Guitarists — Built specifically for keyboard players who want realistic guitar output from MIDI input.
Pricing & Deal Details
| Regular Price | Deal Price | You Save |
|---|---|---|
| $99 | $99 (50%) |
AAS does run periodic sales, but 50% off is a solid discount for this product. This deal expires April 20th, so there’s a reasonable window — but don’t sit on it if you’ve had this one on your list.
Verify current pricing on the product page — deals can change.
Alternatives at a Glance
| Name | Price | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Ample Guitar M Lite | Free | Sample-based acoustic guitar with limited articulations — good for testing the waters |
| Native Instruments Session Guitarist | Check current pricing | Sample-based with pattern engine; larger library but requires Kontakt |
| MusicLab RealGuitar | Check current pricing | Sample-based with strumming engine; focuses on acoustic guitar realism |
If budget is tight and you just need basic acoustic guitar, Ample Guitar M Lite is free and worth trying first. If you prefer physical modeling’s flexibility and real-time responsiveness over sample playback, Strum GS-2 occupies a unique space in this category.
FAQ
Q: Does Strum GS-2 require iLok? A: AAS uses their own authorization system. Check the official AAS website for current activation details.
Q: Is Strum GS-2 available in VST/AU/AAX formats? A: Yes, Strum GS-2 supports major plugin formats. Check the product page for the full list of supported formats and hosts.
Q: Can Strum GS-2 do lead guitar and solos? A: Strum GS-2 is primarily designed for chord-based strumming and rhythmic guitar parts. For detailed lead guitar work, a dedicated solo guitar library may be a better fit.
Q: What are the system requirements? A: Check the official AAS product page for up-to-date system requirements and OS compatibility.
Get the Deal
Half off a physical modeling guitar synth that’s been a staple for non-guitarists — $198 down to $99. The deal expires April 20th.
Pick up Strum GS-2 at 50% off before it’s gone →
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