Pianoteq
Pianoteq is a software synthesizer that features real-time MIDI-control of digital physically modeled pianos and related instruments, including electric piano, harp, harpsichord, fortepiano, and various metallophones. It is usable as a stand-alone program for Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X and Linux (including ARM architecture) platforms, or as a plug in for VSTi hosts and two VSTi counterpart for use with digital audio workstations.
 Pianoteq 3.6 Standard running on Mac OS X | |
| Developer(s) | Modartt Software |
|---|---|
| Stable release | 6.7.1
/ May 5, 2020 |
| Platform | Linux, Mac OS X, Windows |
| Type | Software synthesizer |
| License | Proprietary software |
| Website | Pianoteq Homepage |
History and technology
The original version of the program was released in August 2006. The software's physically modeled synthesis create sound from scratch using several megabytes of mathematical algorithms (Fourier construction) to generate electric piano and acoustic piano sounds that can be manipulated analogously to those produced by their material counterparts. Pianoteq's modeled sounds are supplemented with sampled pedal noise, key release, and hammer noise.
Patches for additional instruments are also available. Several of the historical instruments were created as part of the KIViR (Keyboard Instruments Virtual Restoration) project, which aims to create playable digital models of historical keyboard instruments in museums like the Händel-Haus in Halle.[1]
The stand-alone version of Pianoteq is primarily intended for use with a digital piano as its main MIDI controller, allowing enhanced realism and expressive, real-time sound and feel emulating that of an acoustic piano.
Pricing
Several Pianoteq versions are available, with "Pro" unlocking the most sound-modelling features of the software which includes note-by-note adjustment. Included/excluded instrument packs vary by customers' contractual agreements with Modartt.
References
- "Pianoteq - Project description". pianoteq.com. Retrieved 2014-02-09.
External links
- Interview with the creator of Pianoteq explaining the difference between modelled pianos vs. acoustic pianos and the generations in-between (in French, with English subtitles)