Taikos have been an essential part of traditional Japanese music for thousands of years. Their deep, resonant, yet crisp sound is unmistakable, whether played solo or as part of a massive ensemble. In the last century, their prominence has risen far beyond the borders of Japan, appearing in major film & television scores, video game soundtracks, and international events. We wanted to devote a sample library entirely to taiko, with several accompanying percussive instruments, played by a master to open up as many options for inspiration as possible.

We brought these drums out of the more common ensemble or concert hall setting, focusing instead on an intimate studio sound. These detailed, up-close recordings result in a much more versatile sample library, allowing you to use it in any style of music you can imagine. We’ve recorded every drum in this set in great depth, spanning many articulations, dynamics, and variations.

The Instruments

• Chudaiko
  • 18-inch mid-sized drum recorded on the front and reverse* sides; crisp edge, rich resonant center
  • 16-inch drum recorded on the front and reverse sides*
• Odaiko
  • 32-inch large drum; deep, booming sound with a dry edge, rich central wash
  • Also recorded on the reverse side*
• Shimedaiko
  • “Tightened” drum, higher register to soar over other percussion
    
• Okedo (1.5 and 1.4)
  • “Barrel” drum; heavy attack and clear definition
• Atarigane (Low and High)
  • Played with a mallet; clear, metallic sound
• Hyoshigi
  • Wood blocks; full, resonant sound

* Playing on the reverse side of the drum is a common practice particularly in taiko ensembles, lending even greater authenticity to the library. These additional samples were recorded by Isaku Kageyama in 2022 to expand and improve the library.

About Isaku Kageyama

Award-winning performer, instructor, and recording artist Isaku Kageyama has had a storied career. He’s been heard in concert halls like Carnegie Hall, on video game soundtracks like Ghost of Tsushima, and on TV shows, music tours, and artist residencies. We’re honored to bring his masterful playing to artists and composers around the world.

Console: Modular FX Rack and Mixer

Console is a fully-featured mixer, modular effects rack, and pedal board, designed to give you full control over your mix. Effects include multiple EQs (digital and analog-style), compressors, spatial FX, modulation FX, amps, distortion pedals, reverbs, and more.

Each mic channel can be loaded with up to 8 FX in any order, plus another 8 slots on the master channel, with support for send routing as well. The new “Galois Reverb” added in Kontakt 6 Player sounds fantastic as an alternative to our included custom IRs.

Download the Console manual here to learn more!