Ample Sound has released version 4 of its Ample Ethno series, bringing significant workflow improvements to three distinctive plucked string instruments: Lapsteel, Ukulele, and Banjo. The update centers around the all-new Riffer 4 MIDI editor and comes as a free upgrade for existing users, accompanied by a 25% promotional discount running through February 9, 2026.
What’s New in Version 4
The headline feature is Riffer 4, a specialized MIDI editor designed specifically for plucked string instruments. Unlike generic piano rolls, Riffer 4 introduces a dual-view system that lets you switch between traditional Piano Roll and Guitar Tab views in real time. This addresses a common pain point for producers working with virtual string instruments who need to think in terms of actual playing techniques rather than abstract MIDI notes.
The most practical addition is the String Visualization System, which displays strings directly within the Piano Roll. This prevents the unrealistic polyphony issues that plague many virtual guitar and banjo libraries. The system automatically assigns proper fingering and ensures notes don’t overlap on the same string, something that would be physically impossible on a real instrument.
Also notable is the new Strumming and Chord System built around “Strum Notes.” Instead of programming individual notes in a chord separately, you can now edit the entire chord as a single object, controlling strum timing, velocity gradient, and legato behavior together. Combined with authentic guitar fingering logic, this makes creating realistic strummed parts considerably faster.
Tab Reader 4 and Improved Compatibility
Tab Reader 4 now supports Guitar Pro files from GP3 through Guitar Pro 8, though it’s worth noting that only official Guitar Pro files are compatible. Third-party tab editors aren’t supported. The reader can import complete guitar tracks into Riffer with all fingering, articulations, and performance data intact, which should appeal to composers who work from existing tablature.
MIDI import and export has been streamlined as well. Files exported from Riffer to your DAW will play back identically, maintaining all the fingering and articulation data you programmed.
The Three Instruments
Ample Slide Lapsteel
Sampled from a 1970s Jedson Lap Steel (the David Gilmour custom model), this 2.8GB library features nine articulations including sustain, natural harmonics, various slide types, legato vibrato, buzzing, and arpeggio. The Polyphonic Legato and Slide Smoother system is specifically designed for slide guitar, enabling realistic legato across any interval and speed.
Ample Ethno Ukulele
This instrument captures a Kamaka HF-3 ukulele with both High G and Low G libraries included. At 2.2GB, it offers nine keyswitchable articulations and includes a Strummer engine with 26 play styles per chord, plus legato strum and humanization controls.
Ample Ethno Banjo
Based on a Deering Sierra Banjo, this library provides the characteristic brightness and attack of a quality five-string banjo. Like the other instruments, it features nine articulations, the new Riffer 4 engine, and extensive performance controls.
All three instruments now include a redesigned amp simulator with seven classic amp heads (Metal Double, Metal Treble, Lead 800, Jazz 120, 65 Twang, 65 Delight, and 57 Delight) paired with eight guitar cabinets, each captured with eight different microphones. Built-in effects include an 8-band EQ, compressor, delay, and convolution reverb.
Enhanced UI and Workflow
Version 4 introduces a completely redesigned 5K user interface and remade presets. Each preset now comes paired with a Riffer demo for quick auditioning, which is helpful for getting inspired or understanding how the preset is meant to be used.
The new MIDI CC and Velocity Editors let you view and edit multiple CC lanes simultaneously with different colors and transparency levels. One-click CC curve presets allow for quick expressive automation without tedious manual drawing.
For producers familiar with working with sampled guitars and similar instruments, these workflow improvements might remind you of approaches used in libraries like Native Instruments’ Strummed Acoustic, though Ample Sound’s Riffer system takes a more granular, hands-on approach to programming.
System Requirements
The instruments support both Mac (macOS 10.15 or later) and Windows (Windows 7 through Windows 11, 64-bit only). Plugin formats include VST2, VST3, AU, AAX, and a standalone host called Rectangles. You’ll need over 20GB of disk space (SSD recommended) and at least an Intel i5 processor.
Compatibility Notes
Version 4 is compatible with DAW projects, MIDI files, and presets created in version 3. However, v3 and v4 cannot coexist on the same system. Installing v4 will replace v3, so Ample Sound recommends backing up your previous installation before upgrading.
Pricing and Availability
The update is free for all existing Ample Ethno users. You can download it by logging into your MyAmpleSound account.
New customers can take advantage of a special promotion running until February 9, 2026, offering 25% off all three instruments and related bundles. Existing Ample Sound customers receive an additional loyalty discount on top of the sale price.
Individual instruments are available at:
- Ample Slide Lapsteel – Plugin Boutique
- Ample Ethno Ukulele – Plugin Boutique
- Ample Ethno Banjo – Plugin Boutique
You can also purchase directly from Ample Sound’s website.
