Complete set of three perspective Steinway D Grand Piano

 

The magnificent Steinway D, recorded in a concerthall for the true concert grand experience. Three different perspectives, Close, Ambient and Medium Ambiance gives you tree different instruments to choose from. Incredible 48 samples/note cut's this sampled instrument in a class of it's own.

The "Close" perspective was recorded with the microphones placed very close to the strings. Normally, this isn't the way you would record a classical piece, but you will find that this perspective gives you a great presence and brilliance. Try this version for an in-your-face pop or jazz sound, or for bold and aggressive features. Definitely reach for this version first on a live performance. It has the raw edge needed to cut through a pounding rhythm section, or to back up a powerful vocalist. The more live your playing space, the more likely that the Close Perspective instrument will work for you.

The treble and bass side of the microphones capturing the Close Perspective. Milab DC-96B (above) and MG UM30 (right)

The "medium" perspective is taken using two microphones placed at a moderate distance from the instrument. This perspective works well for both classical and acoustic jazz recordings, where the perception of some room in the tone is desirable. Don't be afraid to try this version in places where you might consider the Close Perspective to be ideal. Sometimes a little distance on the piano can actually make it easier to bring up in the mix. Every mix is different, and the ultimate choice is always going to be a "mix thing."

Microphone placement. Medium Ambience perspective. Neuman KM84 (left).

The "Ambient" perspective is normally the preferred configuration for recording a live classical piano performance, such as a recital. The microphones are placed at a sufficient distance let the tone fully engage the room. You might even say that the room is really the featured player here, as much as the piano. As a player, you are responding as much to the way the instrument is acoustically interacting with the room as you are to the piano itself. You might want to start with this piano if you are seeking to emulate the sound of a piano being played onstage with other instruments. Try it for solo piano work as well. Ultimately, again, only the final mix and mood you're trying to achieve can inform your decision.

Microphone placement, Ambient perspective. Rode NT5 (right)

“I was listening to some Suzanne Ciani at work the other day during my lunch hour. She is a huge figure in New Age piano. I also had a CD-R in the machine of some test pieces I had created using the Black Grand (Ambient Perspective). I had actually forgotten that CD was in the machine. When it started playing the Black Grand pieces, I was immediately struck by the fact that it sounded in the zone of the Ciani material, but actually much better - warmer, which for me is a good thing! So here was an unprocessed sampled piano - the Black Grand - sounding much better than a real piano which had been recorded and mastered in a million dollar studio. Amazing!
- Lawrence Lougheed

"Been playing the medium ambience set tonight - wow! Can't put it down! Sounds amazing; so much expression! Congratulations on a first class library."
- Nick Redman

"Black Grand is really a dream piano"
-Pascal Perrin, Composer & Producer

"Love it! Thanks for your excellent work and the obvious love and care you have for
your virtual instruments."

-Roger Barnes, Musician and Composer

“Got the Black Grand. Wow! A sampling masterpiece”
Grant Olsen – Musician & Composer

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