Native Instruments Akoustik Piano v1.1

Native Instruments Akoustik Piano v1.1

This new version (v1.1) now supports up to 150 voices and includes many other performance enhancements. It also features an improved user-interface as well as a new recorder, stretched tuning, re-pedalling and a bass boost. Akoustik Piano 1.1 or higher now also supports both Kontakt 2 and Kore.

native_instruments_akoustik_piano.jpg (66060 bytes)

New in version 1.1

The English version of the PDF manual has been completely updated to reflect the current version.
GUI navigation has been enhanced: there are three views in stand-alone mode and two views in plug-in mode (hotkeys are F1, F2, and F3).
Recorder usage has been enhanced and MIDI song import added (track selection hotkeys are now obsolete).
Hotkeys are now being sent to the host in plug-in versions.
Each note in all instruments has been readjusted for evenness and retuned; bad samples were replaced with other samples from the original release, i.e. the number of samples and layers can be lower than originally specified depending on the instrument.
Repedalling is now supported.
Stretched tuning has been added (new default for all pianos).
Maximum voices have been increased to 75, 100, and 150.
Three different bass boost setting have been added.
MIDI automation for volume (CC#7) and Pan (CC#10) has been added.
The library can now be fully used in Kontakt 2.1 and Kore.
A limiter effect has been added to the output in order to avoid distortion when you hit the keys harder than usual.
The "ConcertGrand Phil's" preset represents one dedicated piano lover's attempt to further refine the tonal perfection of AKOUSTIK PIANO; see the forum for more info and possible improvements.
The "ConcertGrand with Overtones by Olivier" was enhanced with additional scripts by Olivier Frappier; play keys very softly to only trigger overtones via another key e.g. an octave below.

Bug fixes:

BROWSER: Demos only play back in mono.
CONTENT: Bösendorfer custom -- too loud.
CONTENT: Concert Grand: Note G5 played at highest velocity has no sample triggered.
CONTECT: Concert Grand: there is no samples on note A1.
CONTENT: Input script change-velo out of range error.
CONTENT: Key_noise voices management needs improvement.
CONTENT: Repeated notes bug with sustain pedal down.
CONTENT: slight clicks and cut-off notes when using sustain pedal.
CONTENT: the ECO mode is causing feedback loop for Cathedral.
DOCUMENTATION: documentation says pad 3 is shortcut for turning on/off metronome. but only pad 5 does it.
DOCUMENTATION: in manual it says recorder is part of editors view. it's part of players view.
DOCUMENTATION: Page 45, Sostenuto Pedal is CC 66 not CC 67.
DOCUMENTATION: the description of reverb color (pg 50) doesn't coincide with the actual GUI.
DOCUMENTATION: Typo on bottom of page 46.
HOST: AP won't play correctly in PT7 using 2 RTAS Processors.
HOST: Graphic EQ sticks to cursor.
HOST: Sonar 2..4: timing offsets, double notes and note hangers.
HOST: start play back on first MIDI note in a sequence (Logic 7). the sound is cut off.
RECORDER: Track recorder causes audio to stutter and drop out .
STATUS: "!" should not get red when user clicks on it.

AKOUSTIK PIANO delivers the sound of three of the most famed grand pianos and a charismatic upright. Thanks to a meticulous recording process coupled with the KONTAKT 2 sample engine and integrated convolution module, the four pianos shine with an unparalleled sound quality and an unrivalled, seamless velocity gradient.

Grand Slam

AKOUSTIK PIANO fuses the sampled sound, expressiveness and playability of three of the most reputable grand pianos – the Steinway D™, Bechstein D™ and Boesendorfer Imperial™ – as well as the charismatic Steingraeber 130™ vintage upright piano into one application. AKOUSTIK PIANO covers the entire range of piano sounds and styles, transfusing the sonic characteristics and subtle tonal nuances of all four into your computer – the perfect complement for studios, rehearsal rooms, schools, stages and clubs.

Under The Lid

AKOUSTIK PIANO is the new benchmark in sound quality, capturing the full body and feel of the originals with unprecedented authenticity. The latest recording technology as well as a specially developed microphone setup was used for all 4 pianos. The result is a uniquely warm, transparent and flexible sound that delivers the same distinctive character of each individual piano in exacting detail and can still be adjusted to meet specific needs.

Intelligent Ivory

AKOUSTIK PIANO plays and responds exactly as real pianos do. The keys were sampled at varying velocities and great care was taken to capture the entire sustain and release phases. The brand new Layer Morphing Technology generates a seamless dynamic gradient. The characteristic resonances caused by use of the pedals can be adjusted as can the subtle mechanical noises of the pedals and keys themselves. From perfect pianissimo to forceful fortissimo, this instrument delivers the same breadth and depth of tone as the originals.

Enchanting Ebony

AKOUSTIK PIANO has a first-class integrated convolution module, allowing highly authentic spatial characteristics to be added to the sound. Place the piano in a studio, jazz club, concert hall and a cathedral or use the dry signal as it is. The acoustic parameters of these spaces, such as the size, can also be manipulated. From the close mic setup of a jazz combo to the more ambient nature of classic solo performance, AKOUSTIK PIANO covers the whole spectrum.

Availability: AKOUSTIK PIANO is scheduled for world wide release mid-September.

Top Features

3 famous grand pianos and 1 vintage upright piano
Extremely intuitive and clearly structured user interface
Integrated convolution module for high-quality controllable room acoustics
4 different room types with distinctive characteristics
Exceptionally high sample quality incl. sustain and release phases
"Layer Morphing Technology" ensures a seamless velocity gradient
Highly efficient sample engine based on KONTAKT 2, including Direct from Disk
Adjustable mechanical noises of pedals and keys
Integrated metronome, recorder and flexible 3-band EQ
Keyboard velocity curve allowing response to be adjusted for different master keyboards