Hi!
Does anybody know why we have two versions of some instruments in Symphonic orchestra (Halion) For exemple Violin I A combi and Violin I B combi? What is the differenece between A and B versions?
Unfortunately some miscellaneous information was left out from the manual for the current version of Halion Symphonic Orchestra.
Here’s an excerpt from the old manual that explains the difference between the A and B programs. Note that some programs such as “Violins I Legato 16-32 Players” already have both A and B programs combined, and you can simply use the appropriate Quick Control knob (in this case it’s called Players 17-32) to fade in the B version for a thicker sound.
Violins A and B
For legato as well as spiccato articulations, there are always two program versions called A and B. These use completely different samples and can be used for both doubling the section size (from 16 to 32) or for doubling voices without any typical layering artefacts such as phasing or sterile sound character. Actually you will get the most realistic violin section sound when you play each violin track twice, with separate crescendo control for A and B. Alternately, you can copy the part and apply some randomizing on the copy.
If you need more than one line from the same violin section, usually the players would divide up into sub sections. That’s also a good opportunity to use the A and B variants.
Don’t overdo doubling however, too much doubling can sound artificial.
Spiccato special for violins
The two sets of spiccato articulations cover slightly different performances. The A section was taken from a played phrase and therefore sounds a bit less focussed in the attack, while B uses actual starting notes from a spiccato line. The difference is subtle, but worth noting.
Violas A and B
As in the violins, there are completely independent legato and spiccato A and B sets for violas. Use the legato A and B sets for doubling the size and achieving a smoother sound – or, even more typical, use them for creating independent divisi lines.
The spiccato A set is very nice for playing light accompaniment figures, while the B set will give you a bit more bow and directness.
Cellos A and B
Normally, the legato A and B sets would be used to play divisi parts, but of course you can double the section size here as well. The sets are completely independent, the spiccato B set is more pronounced than the A set
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Thank you cery much Romantique_TP 
That was useful!