Topic: Pianoteq 8.2 Almost too perfect.
Hi,
There's a constant problem that I've been experiencing since I owned the Pianoteq v6 until pre 8.1.3, which is the key action feel. This must be very annoying considering the updates that we've been provided by the Moddart team. v8.1.3 still has a little, but subliminal, difference from the previous version.
The other complaint is the sound, which was "thin" and lacked a "woody" feel compared to the real grand piano.
The sharp sound that was constantly hitting my ears was a big issue that was hard to explain until tinnitus arose. That's not including too short a sound (decay) that disconnects my feelings towards the song that I play. This created another challenge for us pianists to connect with the audience, particularly when playing solo. With the band (drums, guitars, and other instruments), not so much. If I could conclude my complaint in one sentence, it would be:
Not many pianists know how to edit the sound to the real thing.
Fortunately, Pianoteq is the only VST that listens to its users to perfect its products. That's the reason why I love Pianoteq: all the complaints that I've been personally experiencing have been tackled one by one beautifully.
What about Pianoteq update 8.2?
In my ears, this should be the gold standard of piano VST sounds that would inspire other companies to start listening to their customers even more. Considering the small size of the program and the sound that it produces, I think this version is the bomb. Let's break it down:
1. Key action feel sturdy and more fluid like the real acoustic piano.
2. The connection between one note and other notes is clearer than before. It became real acoustic sounds.
2. Woody sounds are presences.
3. Pleasant sound.
4. It has a soul or feeling. Hey, this thing is digital. That's CRAZY!!!
5. All presets are the icing on the cake.
6. Suddenly, I have two new favorite sounds: Petrof Mistral and U4. These two sounds cut the mix like butter. The character of Petrof Mistral covered the lower bass to the highest range. Playing this instrument makes it feel grandiose, while the U4 brings nuance that feels intimate and fresh.
What's my complaint?
Did I make any complaints?
I think I am speechless. No tears yet. My heart? I'd like to keep it for myself.
What about my expectations?
My only expectation is to hope that Moddart stays forward in every update. That's it.
What's my future hope?
Hope is not a complaint or an expectation. It's just a dream that might be considered by Moddart based on my personal experience gigging around. It's like a present or a gift that no one asks for, but it's surprising when we start opening the box. Some of them are:
1. Yamaha DX7 sounds.
2. Real electric guitar that I used to have in Roland Fantom G8.
3. Pitch Bend toggle on the left.
4. Strings and Orchestra.
5. Wood wind sounds in Organtec. If it's available, then I'd get one for sure.
I am very pleased to have Pianoteq, especially with this update. I can play even longer than before.
Thank you, Moddart team, for keeping the update even better, beyond my expectations.
Best regards.
Dulistan