EXS 24 Logic Sampler Users Group

Hello,

I'm Michele Hobbs...long-time lurker, first-time poster.

I am interested in an EXS24 string library that would be good for pop and R&B music.  
Many of the string libraries available are nice, but seem to have too much ambience 
because of the way they are sampled.  Can someone recommend a string library that 
includes samples that aren't so ambient?  I've read that R&B producer Rodney Jerkins is 
using VSL, but I can't afford that at this point.  I don't want to spend 1000 USD, but if the 
recommended libraries are that much, then so be it.

Thank you,
-Michele Hobbs