Pianoteq released on Linux
Pianoteq recently announced the release of Pianoteq v.3, their cutting edge modelling piano synthesizer. Together with the new release came a Linux version. For now as a standalone application with ability to connect to JACK and ALSA midi, but VST version is also planned and probably will be released in future version.
I decided to check out the software and give my opinion about it.
No doubt that the software is really high quality. The sound it produces could fool even most clever piano freaks and it’s usable for both live and recording settings where true Piano tone is asked for. There are enough parameters to tweak, starting from the built and tone of the piano itself and ending with applied effects and microphone placement.
Linux version started smoothly on Ubuntu 9.04, of course considering the fact that all the audio tweaks were done which linux audio people do to enable higher quality realtime audio. Midi controller connections and audio configuration didn’t require any thinking either and it sounded as cool as Windows version, with no actual visible or audible differences.
The CPU consumption seemed very reasonable considering the fact that the program isn’t a sampler but an advanced acoustic modelling synthesizer and even moderate configurations are enough for advanced pianists.
Now the price. Linux version isn’t sold separately but together with Windows and Mac versions which is a good thing when you don’t want to be tied to one platform. Also, by registering you get access to free addon instruments such as selection of harpsicords, pianoforte, other types of grand pianos, electroacoustic piano and selection of bells. The registration also offers 1 year of free upgrades.
The price tag is 249€ for the program, but there are also two optional commercial addon instruments available for 49€ each, the Electric Pianos and Vibes (vibraphone). The price tag is bit salty for people who just want some piano in their mix, and these are usually better off with using free plugins such as MDA-Piano which also does the thing in most tracks, but if you are a real pianist and appreciate the high quality tone and require all the features of real piano, there is no going wrong with this instrument, the sound quality will impress you and your listeners.
Download the demo and purchase the product here: http://www.pianoteq.com/
Key Features:
- Physically modelled piano, real time sound generation
- Full dynamics – no velocity switching
- Very expressive with superb playability
- Sounds and behaves just like a real piano
- Unique tuning, voicing and design adjustments
- Piano factory – create your own piano
- Works great with any modern laptop
- Fast loading – just 20 MB in size
- Microphone placements up to 5 microphones
- Up to 5 channel output for true surround
Demo limitations:
- Some black keys are disabled
- Will shut up after 20 minutes of use
Platforms: Win (VST/RTAS/Standalone), Mac(VST/AU/RTAS/Standalone), Linux (Standalone)
Price: 249€
