The library is designed to be a solution for composers who need access to a wide variety of sounds without loading a dozen different plugins. It is often described as a "Ghostwriter" tool—an instrument that allows a composer to quickly mock up ideas, or in many cases, produce a final master that sounds indistinguishable from a fully produced studio session. To understand Goliath, one must first understand the engine that drives it. Goliath runs on the East West Play Engine . This software interface has been a staple in the industry for years, known for its ability to handle large sample libraries with efficiency.
The Play Engine offers a user-friendly interface that allows for deep customization. Users can manipulate ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release) envelopes, apply high-quality filters, and utilize built-in reverb and delay effects directly within the player. One of the most significant advantages of the Play Engine is its memory management. It allows users to purge unused samples and adjust sample purging on the fly, which is crucial when running a library as large as Goliath on systems with limited RAM. Goliath contains over 180 Gigabytes of content and thousands of instruments. The sheer volume of data can be overwhelming, so it is helpful to categorize the strengths of its primary sections. 1. Pianos and Keyboards East West is legendary for its piano libraries, particularly the Steinway D found in their "Pianos" collection. Goliath includes a streamlined version of this grand piano. While it may not have the infinite velocity layers of the dedicated library, the piano in Goliath is surprisingly playable. It cuts through a mix well, offering a bright, pop-ready tone that works for rock, pop, and jazz. Additionally, the collection includes upright pianos and various electric keyboards (Rhodes, Wurlis) that provide authentic warmth. 2. Orchestral Elements Goliath is not meant to replace a dedicated symphonic library like East West’s own "Hollywood Orchestra," but its orchestral content is far from an afterthought. It provides a solid set of strings, brass, and woodwinds. These patches are generally "ensemble" based, meaning you get the sound of a section rather than solo instruments. This makes them ideal for padding, background textures, and pop arrangements where the orchestra is a supporting element rather than the lead. 3. Drums and Percussion This is where Goliath shines as a production tool. It includes a vast array of drum kits, from punchy rock kits to tight jazz setups. The mapping is generally GM (General MIDI) friendly, meaning you can load up a standard MIDI drum file and it will play back correctly. The percussion section extends beyond kits to ethnic percussion, tympanis, and cinematic boom hits, making it a valuable resource for sound designers. 4. Guitars and Bass East West Goliath
For over a decade, has stood as one of the most prominent contenders for this title. As part of East West Sounds’ acclaimed lineup, Goliath promises to be the only virtual instrument you need for a vast array of sonic textures. But does this titan live up to its name in the modern era of production? Let’s dive deep into the architecture, sound library, and practical application of East West Goliath. What is East West Goliath? East West Goliath is a massive virtual instrument library powered by the East West Play Engine. It is essentially a "greatest hits" collection derived from East West’s extensive catalog. Rather than focusing on a single category, Goliath spreads its wings across the entire sonic spectrum. It includes pianos, strings, brass, woodwinds, percussion, guitars, basses, drums, ethnic instruments, and synthesis. The library is designed to be a solution
In the world of music production, the quest for the ultimate "workhorse" virtual instrument is a journey every composer undertakes. We all dream of that one plugin that can handle a piano ballad on Tuesday, a heavy metal track on Wednesday, and a film score on Friday. While specialized libraries for specific orchestral sections or rare instruments are essential for professional detail, there is an undeniable need for a "Swiss Army Knife"—a comprehensive collection that covers the basics with professional quality. Goliath runs on the East West Play Engine