I'm pleased to release a brand new Kontakt library to you, Arctic Strings. The library is no doubt one of the largest projects I've done and I'm very pleased with the results. Arctic Strings is a cinematic string library designed from the ground up for easy to use ambient sustained strings.
Arctic Strings Product Page
 
 $49.00
  
 

Key features

1. Real multi-sampled strings.
2. Tweakable legato, portamento and attack/release articulations.
3. Comprehensive 'mod matrix' allowing for setting up keyswitches, CC and velocity modulations.
4. 10 Effects & Convolution reverb.
5. Auto-harmonise to intervals and chords. 

 
http://www.frozenplain.co.products/arctic-strings/

Sounds nice, but too limited in scope for my needs. However, I would urge everyone to give his Hammered Chordophone ($25) a listen. That's exactly the rich, bright sound of a hammered dulcimer I've been looking for. Chords played on it sound like an autoharp, which is kind of what this sampled instrument is. A big autoharp. For 5 bucks more you get a plucked version thrown in that sounds like a bright nylon-string guitar.
 

Kind of bummed / surprised there's no intro offer on this. My guess is that sometime it will get a promo from VST Buzz.

Several of the samples in the video demo are quite nice. What I'm finding compelling and different about this library is that kind of like Kirk Hunter Strings has an Easy Arranger aspect for harmonies, this has a harmony feature as well. So playing single, already rich sounding notes, if you've selected a harmony setting you hear extra lushness. That's worth consideration.

I'm considering it.