Top 8 Piano VST Plugins 2024 (And 9 Best Kontakt Libraries)

Top 8 Piano Plugins (And 5 Best FREE Pianos) | Integraudio.com

Finding quality piano plugins can be difficult. So, we’ve rounded up the 8 best piano plugins of 2024 suitable for all kinds of music creators. 

8. Spectrasonics Keyscape

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From the makers of the famed Omnisphere synth comes this extensive collection of keyboards and pianos.

Keyscape provides multiple instruments totaling over 500 patches and a plethora of tools to create unique sounds. It also integrates into Omnisphere 2 if you happen to own the plugin. Furthermore, its minimalistic user interface makes this a good plugin for technically challenged users who still want creative possibilities. 

The acoustic pianos in the plugin sound warm and resonant, whereas the electronic keyboards have distinct sounds. Similarly, the included set of historical instruments revel in authenticity. And of course, as with Omnisphere, you can use multiple instruments simultaneously to create unique patches.

Spectrasonics Keyscape Review - The 8 Best Piano Plugins (And 5 Best Free Pianos) | Integraudio.com

Key Features:

  • Numerous Keyboards 

Keyscape provides 36 keyboard options beyond a basic acoustic piano to accommodate all genres. The plugin includes varieties from grand and upright to toy pianos and historical instruments like the Dolceola. You’ll also find iconic electronic keyboards like Fender MK-80 Rhodes, Clavinet, and more.

  • Authentic Expression 

Each instrument’s sheer amount of detail makes for higher quality audio and more realistic, expressive performances, especially in the plugin’s acoustic models. These details include mechanical noise, pedal noise, and release noise behavior modeling to create a digital instrument that sounds as natural as possible.

  • Controls For Customization 

You can edit each patch with highly intuitive, user-friendly controls, giving you endless customization options to work with. The visually clean nature of the UI makes it ideal for users who struggle with complex software.

  • Duo Mode 

This intriguing feature of Keyscape allows you to mix two instruments and save the unique combinations as presets for future use. For the more inventive creators, this feature gives them access to a whole treasure trove of new instruments. 

  • Onboard Effects 

The plugin features a collection of built-in effect processors to mix your sounds. The effects include reverb, EQ, character shift, compressor, etc. However, the available effects change depending on the sound patch you have opened.

And if you integrate your Keyscape with Omnisphere, the possibilities of sound design increase even more with its many effects processors.

Have a listen to the presets of Keyscape and you can also see how the effects available on the Editor page are changing depending on the category of the instrument the reviewer Mike Pensini is selecting:

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.13 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Keyscape provides a wide variety of sounds that range from world-class acoustic grand and upright pianos to electric keyboards. It is user-friendly and has unique features like the Duo Mode. Furthermore, the samples are incredibly high quality.

However, I must mention that Keyscape does not have a half-pedal feature, which pianists might find a little disappointing, especially considering the hefty price tag.

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Bonus Plugins:

Garritan Abbey Road Studio CFX Concert Grand

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Get the sound of the world-class Yamaha CFX in this meticulous venture by Garritan.

The CFX grand piano resulted from over 20 years of experimentation and development by over 40 of the world’s best engineers and artisans at Yamaha. Garritan and Abbey Road collaborated to record this handcrafted beauty in the Studio One orchestral hall with some of the best microphones

The result is a detailed sample library with thousands of samples, and many presets covering a wide range of usage.

Garritan CFX Concert Grand Review - The 8 Best Piano Plugins (And 5 Best Free Pianos) | Integraudio.com

Key Features:

  • Mic Perspectives

This piano plugin features three microphone setups or perspectives: Classic, Contemporary, and Player. Classic features close mics, mid-field mics, and main room micsThis setup captures the natural tone and nuances of the instrument most faithfully.

On the flip side, the Contemporary setup features close mics and ambiance mics designed to bring up clarity and create a bright and hard tone. Similarly, the Player perspective captures the experience of playing the CFX grand via close mics and a binaural mic. 

  • Presets 

Each mic perspective features numerous presets that sound ideal for various use cases like pop music, rock music, or cinematic scoring. You will find presets created in collaboration with Abbey Road Studios to closely capture the contemporary artists, genres, recordings, live performances, and cinematic settings. 

  • Voicing 

Clicking on the Piano tab on the interface reveals controls for adjusting the sound of the grand piano. You will find sympathetic resonance, sustain resonance, release characters, and pedal noise in this section. Furthermore, you can also change the position of the lid from closed, half-open, and open. 

  • Mixing 

On the Studio page, you will find a convolution reverb section with 12 impulses. Similarly, you can also select between the audience or performer’s perspective of the stereo image. And finally, there is a simple three-band EQ for close output and ambient mic output each, not to mention a mixer to control the two mics’ volume and stereo width.

Have a look as Merriam Pianos describes the Garritan CFX with some preset demonstrations. You’ll get to hear the opinion of someone who has played and used a Yamaha CFX as well.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for Windows 8.1 or higher and macOS 10.12 or higherboth 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Tone-wise, Abbey Roads Studios’ recording, and Garritan’s programming have managed to recreate the glory of the Yamaha CFX remarkably well. The subtle but significant sympathetic resonance also manages to kick the realism up a notch.

The only issue you would experience is its size. This single piano library takes up over 122 GB of disk space, although you will find a Lite version that features only the Classic Mic Perspective, taking up only 24.5 GB too.

Related Reading:

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2. EastWest Quantum Leap Pianos Gold

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This piano plugin features four of the best grand pianos recorded at EastWest Studios. 

The Pianos Gold library took over two years of recording, editing, and programming to develop. It features numerous samples per note in various playing styles at different velocities.

The four included grand pianos are: Bechstein D-280, Steinway D, Bösendorfer 290, and Yamaha C7. The Gold Edition of this library features player’s perspective mics and 16-bit samples.

EastWest Quantum Leap Pianos Gold Review - The 8 Best Piano Plugins (And 5 Best Free Pianos) | Integraudio.com

Key Features:

  • The Sound 

EastWest Recording Studios used vintage Neumann microphones through the iconic 8079 Neve console to record the samples from the player’s perspective, which gives you the experience of playing these pianos. Furthermore, the Play plugin features convolutions of the EastWest hall to emulate the space. 

  • Articulations

Eight articulations were recorded per pianosustainsustain with pedal, repetitions, repetitions with pedal, soft pedal, soft pedal with a sustain pedal, staccato, and release trails. Also, the plugin features a true repetition detection technology, which switches staccato to actual repetitions based on how you are performing the notes.

It recreates the acoustics of playing said pieces accurately. 

  • Lid Position 

Pianos Gold uses filters to simulate the position of the lid. So, you can control the position smoothly from fully closed to open. The smoothness is quite enjoyable, although, for solo performance, you may not find it entirely convincing enough.

Here’s a demonstration of each of the pianos in EastWest Pianos Gold below along with a look at some of the features available:

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.13 or higherboth 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2/3AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

The EWQL Pianos Gold is a straightforward piano plugin that features four great-sounding pianosThe interface and general experience feel a little outdated due to the age of this plugin, but overall, the sound is still going strong.

If you wish for tons of control and mixing possibilities, this plugin may not be for you as it focuses on remaining simple.

Furthermore, it requires about 60 GB of disk space, and the plugin eats a large amount of RAM. So, make sure your system is capable of handling it before purchase.

3. Synthogy Ivory II Grand Pianos

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Ivory II is a stunning sample-based piano plugin that sounds highly realistic thanks to several innovations in use. 

This piano plugin features three grand pianos: Bösendorfer 290, Steinway D, and Yamaha C7They total over 77 GB of samples with up to 18 velocity layers per note.

Furthermore, it uses modeling and DSPs to provide even more realistic piano sound and acoustic space.

The three included pianos are well-suited for jazz, classical, and contemporary pop music, respectively.

Each piano contains numerous presets curated to fit various genres and use cases. However, if you don’t want to spend too much of your disk space, you can install only the pianos you wish to individually.

Synthology Ivory II Grand Pianos Review - The 8 Best Piano Plugins (And 5 Best Free Pianos) | Integraudio.com

Key Features:

  • Modeling 

The plugin features a Harmonic Resonance Modeling engine that recreates sympathetic string resonance, adjustable with a knob. Similarly, you can control the amount of shimmer or high-frequency overtones of the piano to your liking. 

And finally, the Sustain Resonance DSP provides a natural damper pedal response. All of these turn Ivory II into an authentic living, breathing instrument. 

  • Onboard Mixing 

Ivory II features built-in effect plugins like a convolution reverb, chorus, and EQ to help you start mixing without leaving the plugin interface. I like the convolution reverb that offers 7 spaces, but I’d rather use outboard plugins over the other two. However, each of the effects is very CPU efficient. 

  • Tweaks

The plugin provides five possible lid positions that go from closed to open. Similarly, you can adjust the release, noise, timbre (or softness), dynamic range, stereo width, and so on. The Timbre Shift knob lets you add spectral shift to the entire sample set and create some bright piano sounds and bizarre plastic timbre. 

  • Synth Layering 

Ivory II features a section that lets you add a synth pad to your piano to achieve a smooth, fantasy-esque sound. The result is something you’d often find in Yamaha or Roland arranger keyboards. There are 8 synth pads along with level, transposition, decay, and release controls.

Check out how Ivory II sounds and how the plugin functions in the following video by Mirriam Pianos:

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for Windows 8 or higher 32-bit or 64-bit and macOS 10.8 or higher 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Ivory II is one of the few piano plugins that sound comprehensive and musicalIt sounds amazing and has a decent amount of flexibility and efficiency. Most of the sound quality comes from its resonance modeling and Sample Interpolation Technology which provides ultra-smooth velocity and note transitions.

It becomes most apparent when you play scales dynamically. The only issue you might face is the file size and somewhat high price, especially for only three pianos.

However, note that the pianos in question happen to be majestic.

4. VI Labs Ravenscroft 275

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This offering by VI Labs is a deeply sampled piano library of a 9’ American grand piano. 

Unlike the piano plugins on our list, the Ravenscroft 275 is a sample library for the UVI Workstation/Falcon 2 sampler. It features nearly 17,000 samples with four microphone placements in a very straightforward user interface.

The sound is impressive thanks to the deep velocity and intricate harmonic interaction sampling. Furthermore, there are multiple articulations and effective convolution reverb with 22 impulses to further push realism. 

VI Labs Ravenscroft 275 - The 8 Best Piano Plugins (And 5 Best Free Pianos) | Integraudio.com

Key Features:

  • Mic Blend 

The library features four discrete microphone setups: close, room, player, and side. You can blend in each of them from the main user interface to create just the right amount of stereo imaging and intimacy you want. Furthermore, you can also unload the sample set you don’t want using the arrow/checkmark icon. It helps save RAM. 

  • Sample Based Resonance 

The Ravenscroft 275 sample library features true recorded and scripted sympathetic resonance without any synthesis whatsoever. Furthermore, the samples include both pedal down and harmonic key pedal up resonances.

You’ll notice that the sound, therefore, is very close to a real acoustic grand piano. 

  • True Pedal 

The library features recorded una cordasostenuto, and half-pedal functionsYou can even assign the custom CC values and half-pedal range to accommodate your smooth sustain pedal. Furthermore, the re-pedal feature lets you lift the sustain pedal and press down again quickly without losing the release, just like an acoustic piano would.

And finally, each of the pedal actions has recorded resonance emulations. So, for example, if you play a chord with the pedal down, it will cause other strings to resonate, and if you re-pedal, all the strings will resonate but quietly. 

  • More Articulations 

The library also features articulations like staccato and muted strikes. The staccato samples provide you with real, recorded note trails for short notes, whereas the muted strikes are for percussive attacks.

You can switch between normal samples to mutes in real-time. Have a listen to Ravenscroft 275 and find out how it compares to the actual piano according to Stu Harrison from Mirriam Pianos:

Compatibility:

This library requires UVI Falcon 2 or the free UVI Workstation to run.

UVI Workstation is available for Windows 8 or higher and macOS 10.9 or higherboth 64-bit only. It comes in VST 2AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Ravenscroft 275 is one of the most realistic-sounding virtual pianos yet. It is based on the glorious American-German grand piano of the same name. The sound is highly musical, and the sampled resonances make the library feel like an actual instrument.

If you are a pianist and are used to playing an acoustic grand, you should give this library a try.  Furthermore, thanks to the lossless FLAC file compression, it only requires about 5.5 GB of disk space.

And with its selective loading feature for the mic setups and articulationsthis library is bound to perform well even on a very modest computer.

Verdict

Selecting a piano plugin comes down to preference. Even if the piano plugin is extremely well sampled and programmed, you might not like the piano from which the library was created.

If you’re like me and want to pick from a variety, I suggest checking out Modartt Pianoteq 7 and Arturia Piano V2The first lets you select the instruments you like from their extensive library before purchasing, whereas the latter comes with 12 built-in selections.

Modartt Pianoteq 7 remains a solid choice for realism, but you might prefer samples over physical modeling. In that case, try VSL Synchron Pianos and VI Ravenscroft 275. Similarly, if you make pop music or other contemporary genres, I’d highly recommend the Garritan CFX Concert Grand and Spectrasonics Keyscape.

And finally, if you are on a budget, I would suggest Addictive Keys as the best all-rounder with plenty of presets and flexibility. Feel free to check out the demos of each piano plugin on our list using the provided links, and I hope this article helps you find a piano plugin that works for you. If you are looking for piano restoration services like piano tuning, check the link.

Related Topic:

Top 9 Piano Kontakt Sample Libraries 2024

1. Sonuscore CHROMA – Grand Piano

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Top 8 Piano VST Plugins 2024 (And 9 Best Kontakt Libraries) - 2024 Update

Designed to emulate the sound of a movie piano, Chroma is Sonuscore’s take on the instrument. 

CHROMA is a representation of the timeless elegance of the piano. This recording was painstakingly made using a Yamaha C3 to ensure that it would preserve the full sonic vitality of the perfect piano sound. It is an exhaustive investigation of the instrument and faithful recreation of its acoustic properties.

CHROMA is more than just a piano; it’s the experience of playing the piano, from the depth of a single note to the expansive soundscapes made possible by mallets, pads, and even an e-bow.

Key Features:

  • Articulations

This library features a comprehensive exploration of the piano. They employed mallets, brushes, palm mutes, an e-bow, and chains, all programmable in the virtual instrument and the more conventional techniques. You may also adjust mechanical noises such as Note On, Note Off, and Pedal to enhance your genuine grand piano sensation when playing.

  • Engine

CHROMA gives you a lot of creative leeway by drawing from various recordings of the piano and its body and a set of powerful effects. However, CHROMA is more than just a piano; it’s also a potent tool for creating soundscapes, from novel and abstract compositions to realistic recreations of natural sounds like rain.

  • User Interface

Chroma’s controls are neatly separated into three tabs. Use the tabs in the upper left corner of the user interface to navigate between the different sections. If you launch CHROMA, you’ll be sent straight to the homepage. Essentially all of the crucial playing settings are there.

All engine settings, including special effects, can be found under the ENGINE tab. Finally, the MIX page is where you’ll find the mic position mixer and the options for customizing the velocity curve.

The MAIN and ENGINE pages have a similar layout, with the sound library on the left, the effects on the right, advanced controls in the bottom or middle of the user interface, and the preset browser at the very top, next to the Sonuscore logo.

  • Mix Page

You may find faders and buttons to activate the four mic inputs on the MIX Page. However, remember that the mixer does not affect the engine, which always uses all mic positions. You can tailor CHROMA’s velocity curve to your keyboard and personal taste in dynamic responsiveness using the table at the program’s footer.

As a result, the velocity curve is not stored as a set of preferences but rather persists between sessions. The curve’s behavior can be linear, an s-curve, or edited freely by clicking into the table in “custom mode,” which can be accessed via the dropdown menu.

The minimum and maximum playback speeds are controlled via the min and max sliders, respectively, while the curve slider allows for fine-tuning of the curve’s shape.

  • Presets

More than 90 different “presets” are at your disposal in the preset browser, all of which can be modified to suit your needs. In addition, the preset browser allows you to filter the presets you see and then scroll through the filtered results.

The names of all available preset are always displayed in the page’s upper-middle region, where you can click on them to access the preset browser.

Compatibility:

The library is available for Kontakt 5.7 or higher (NOT the free Kontakt Player). Kontakt 5.7 is available for Windows 7 or higher 32-bit and 64-bit and macOS 10.10 or higher 64-bit. It comes in VST 2AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

All the articulations you could want in a piano, plus a top-notch sound creation engine and a wealth of useful presets for composing your music. While the Yamaha C3 sampling may initially draw you in, chroma’s sound design features keep you coming back.

2. NI Piano Colors

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A handpicked collection of incredible samples recorded within a variety of complex playing techniques.

Piano Colors is a genuine virtual instrument that offers a breathtaking spectrum of overtones that will spark your imagination. This plugin brings unique and unusual musical concepts to life, whether it’s dark thriller scores, groove-filled dubstep, or plain pop creations.

It blends a wide range of innovative playing styles with a unique processing engine that mixes dynamics, tone transitions, and movement to take the sound of a piano into previously unthinkable realms.

NI  Piano Colors - Top 9 Piano Kontakt Sample Libraries And 5 Best Free Pianos | Integraudio.com

The synergy that this plugin produces between its rich bank of distinctive grand piano articulations and the creative modulation engines (which include the “Arpeggiator,” as well as the newly extended “Particles”) is what makes it so crafty.

Complex sounds change in real-time, resulting in expressive timbres, naturally throbbing grooves, and ever-changing pads. This plugin transforms harmonically rich samples into inspiring shades that may be molded and merged to create a piece of unique flowing music while you play.

Key Features:

  • Different sounds

A range of unusual tools was utilized to record the wide collection of source samples in Piano Colors, like hammers, drumsticks, rubber, screws, and several EBows.

A grand piano’s strings and body were performed in unconventional ways, and the resulting acoustic effects were precisely documented using the most advanced recording equipment, yielding a vast range of energetic resonances, expressive harmonics, and colorful overtones.

  • Particles engine

The genuine “Particles” engine is one element that makes this plugin so unique. A set of algorithms was carefully developed to better fit new and bold musical ideas required in modern music production. This engine automatically generates new notes and adds an extra sonic layer to your playing.

  • Arpeggiator

A common feature in synthesizers, the arpeggiator is inserted on this virtual instrument in a very creative way. By creating ever-changing sequences and randomized patterns, this tool can provide a variety of nuances and musical ideas right away, with various configurations such as “Humanize Time” and “Velocity.”

  • Tone effects

This library also features an extended section dedicated to tweaking your grand piano sound even further. The “Tone” section includes “Color,” “Tonal Shift,” and “Dynamic” controls that can transform the classic piano sound in an avant-garde way. Also, the envelope parameters feature modulation options that can expand this alteration to the limits of your imagination.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for macOS 10.14, 10.15, 11, or 12 (latest update), and Windows 10 64-bit only (latest Service Pack). It comes in VST, VST3, AAX, and AU plugin formats and doesn’t run in standalone mode. Intel Core i5 or equivalent and minimum 4 GB RAM recommended.

Summary:

Native Instruments’ Piano Colors is dedicated to reproducing the grand piano’s unique sound, but with a selection of tools that can make it fit in the most complex modern productions.

Modulation and envelope controls, allied with an arpeggiator and a set of rich-sounding algorithms, are the ingredients responsible for such an innovative and fresh virtual instrument, with a multitude of options that can inspire any music producer looking for a different piano texture.

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3. NI Noire

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Noire brings the ultimate experience of a unique instrument being played by an iconic musician on an even more iconic ambient.

Nils Frahm is a German musician known for combining classical and electronic music elements, aside from playing pianos and keyboards in a very unconventional way.

That’s the reason why Native Instruments’ team chose him to play a hand-picked grand piano, with custom intonation, in a very special location: Bauhaus-designed recording complex, Funkhaus.

NI Noire - Top 9 Piano Kontakt Sample Libraries And 5 Best Free Pianos | Integraudio.com

The result is an intense and evocative instrument that features an awesome atmosphere of its own. The sampling quality is exquisite and should be among the very best options available today.

Still, some unique controls can make this grand piano very versatile, especially regarding a more delicate and introspective approach when hitting the keys, such as the aforementioned “Particles” engine and several effects.

Key Features:

  • Pure and Felt

You can pick between two soundscapes when using Noire. The “Pure” version produces a clean, unadulterated grand piano sound with excellent sound quality. The “Felt” version is an entirely different sample – it’s the same instrument, but with a felt placed between hammers and strings, resulting in a mellow tone with less attack.

You can also adjust the envelope, resonance, overtones, velocity curve, temperament, and more to further shape the sound.

  • Galaxy Instruments

Uli Baronowsky and Galaxy Instruments meticulously sampled this hand-picked, custom-intonated Yamaha CFX 9′ grand piano. The crew spent many weeks in Saal 3 of the iconic Funkhaus Nalepastrasse in Berlin, recording this remarkable instrument’s entire dynamic and tone spectrum utilizing vintage mics and preamps.

The final result is an amazing sound quality that reflects the majestic tone of such piano being played in a well-prepared studio room.

  • Easy to get inspired

Noire isn’t about copying other sounds; it’s about providing you with inspired raw material and various creative alternatives for making it your own. You can include noises for realism, select from a variety of sound design ideas, add some subbass, and experiment with tone shifting. EQ, compression, reverb, and delay effects are also used to fine-tune the piano’s arrangement in the mix.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for mac OS 10.14, 10.15, 11, or 12 (latest update), and Windows 10 64-bit only (latest Service Pack). It comes in VST, VST3, AAX, and AU plugin formats and doesn’t run in standalone mode. Intel Core i5 or equivalent and minimum 4 GB RAM recommended.

Summary:

The impressive recording quality is one of the strongest merits of Native Instruments’ Noire, but having a musician such as Nils Frahm handpick a grand piano model and actually play it makes this library very exceptional compared to others.

The two sound modes, “Pure” and “Felt,” are responsible for making this instrument sound as vividly as possible, with just as many articulations and dynamics involved. Although this can appease sound designers and score producers, musicians can also take full advantage of these sonic tools the same way.

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4. e-instruments Session Keys Grand S

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This plugin recreates the Steinway D Concert Grand Piano’s rich harmonic texture and deep resonances, as heard in concerts and recordings by a few of the world’s finest artists.

When dealing with instruments such as grand pianos, the resonance is basically what differs it from any simulations. Such dynamic response is entwined with the instrument’s particular features, but some brands and models eventually stand out in the crowd.

Steinway is a renowned company, very famous for its amazing pianos. These instruments have shaped the history of music since 1853 and continue today. The amazing work done by the e-instruments team of developers showcases the best details about such beautiful grand pianos in a simple Kontakt library.

e-instruments Session Keys Grand S - Top 9 Piano Kontakt Sample Libraries And 5 Best Free Pianos | Integraudio.com

Key Features:

  • Animator

The “Animator” was created to generate genuinely musical piano performances in the most dynamic manner possible. It provides a simple approach to developing adaptable piano motifs that match your harmonies, making it the ideal source of musical inspiration.

  • Pentamorph

With only one knob, you can simply alter the grand piano’s acoustics – from typical conventional tones to sonic atmospheres that go well beyond the normal – and also generate movement on the fly. This translates into a fluid and natural-sounding virtual instrument that can take advantage of the real instrument’s resonances.

  • Smart chords

Session Keys’ “Smart Chord” mode is an entirely new and imaginative method to add depth of musicality to your production by providing quick piano chords on the go. The pad control or the single keys can be used to play whole chords or “Animator” riffs. All you have to do is simply pick the key of your tune and let it produce the harmonies instantly.

  • Effects

Aside from the “Pentamorph” controls, every parameter of Session Keys Grand S may be accessed and altered in great detail to enhance the instrument’s uniqueness and expressiveness or take it well beyond its distinctive sonic identity. For limitless sound design, “EQ,” “Compression,” “Convolution Reverb,” and “Delay” effects can all be tweaked to your taste.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for macOS 10.6 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST and AU plugin formats. Minimum 4 GB RAM recommended.

Summary:

Recreating an instrument such as a piano into a digital environment is definitely not easy, but e-instruments did a very good job anyway. Based on a specific Steinway model, this plugin can be a toolbox for anything related to pianos when you’re producing a track.

Good effects, nice working features to help your creativity flow, and awesome sampling quality are delivered in a neat, easy-to-use design.

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5. Heavyocity Ascend Modern Grand

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Explore new ways to evoke sounds from a classic grand piano model with plenty of controls and adjustments to tweak from.

The amazing 9-foot Concert D has been redesigned as a great-sounding plugin. Heavyocity opted to sample this particular grand piano thoroughly because of its amazing warmth, depth, and texture, which was recorded in stunning detail at a legendary NYC studio.

This is the cinematic composer’s chance to perform on one of Heavyocity’s favorite pianos. They chose one of the world’s greatest cinematic pianos, then drove the best of grand pianos further still, experimenting with new techniques to elicit sound from its nine-foot structure.

First, meticulously recording many prepared performances (brushes, mallets, ebow, chains, and twine), and then creating an entirely new engine to bring these incredible sounds to life.

Ascend Modern Grand - Top 9 Piano Kontakt Sample Libraries And 5 Best Free Pianos | Integraudio.com

Key Features:

  • ASCEND engine

The gorgeous engine featured in this library showcases a brand new sonic world to explore, with a complete collection of rhythmic convolutions and many layerable sources and effects. Aside from these choices, you can blend them very easily, thanks to a refined algorithm that will make it sound as natural as possible.

  • Sound sources

The “inverted triangle” on the main screen lets you mix between different sound sources, with 16 different options. You can alter the microphones and their respective positions, as well as a pianissimo option for them to work out in quieter situations.

Another option includes different ways in which a piano string could be hit, like with a metal or wooden material.

  • Snapshots

ASCEND comes with 110 snapshots, which combine the sound sources in creative ways to wield a variety of playable piano textures and effects.

They are grouped into different folders within the interface, like “Ascended” (a selection of recommended presets by the team of developers) and “Core Concert D,” which exhibits the wide range of timbres achievable by combining different mic positions, effects, and reverb settings.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for macOS 10.14, 10.15, 11, or 12 (latest update), and Windows 10 64-bit only (latest Service Pack). It comes in VST, VST3, AAX, and AU plugin formats and doesn’t run in standalone mode. Intel Core i5 or equivalent and minimum 4 GB RAM recommended.

Summary:

ASCEND is all about creating textures and blending different sonic layers within themselves.

The source for this library’s sound is a classic grand piano model, but fidelity isn’t the only merit here: the possibility to blend different soundscapes and mic configurations is what can lead to an exciting new atmosphere on your track. The highlight is a dedicated pianissimo source included here.

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6. Native Instruments Grandeur

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A detailed recreation of an iconic piano sound that can deal with musical performances ranging from classical to pop.

The Grandeur vividly recreates the sound of a renowned concert grand piano. It produces a high-end timbre that is completely at home in contemporary pop, jazz, and classical recordings, with a sharp, smooth top end and booming, profound bass in the quietest parts.

It’s ideal for all modern projects because of the recurring tweaking possibilities. Pedals, damper, string, and mallet sound levels can all be adjusted, and to modify the dynamic range, turn the “Dynamic” slider up or down. Thanks to these built-in effects, you may fine-tune the sound all without leaving the interface.

Top 8 Piano VST Plugins 2024 (And 9 Best Kontakt Libraries) - 2024 Update

Key Features:

  • Anatomy

This section dedicated to the instrument’s resonance brings some great tools to your track. Aside from setting an appropriate dynamic range through the knob with the same name, the number of resonances can also be twisted from a similar knob.

A dedicated control section features advanced configurations, such as an “Overtones” level knob and dedicated faders for selected noises present when playing the real instrument.

  • Ambiance at its best

You can choose from different room sizes in a dedicated section, but aside from the multitude of ambient options, three different knobs can make it sound just like you’d want. “Amount,” “Size,” and “Distance” can be tweaked instantly to craft the perfect desired ambiance, no matter if in a larger or smaller room.

  • Lid control

The “Tone” section is responsible for adjusting the piano’s “Color” setting. It dynamically shifts the entire sound between the softer and louder sample sounds as you twist the knob, bringing expressiveness or quietness to your track.

But that’s not all: a special “Lid” button underneath the “Color” knob simulates the sounds of a piano’s opened or closed lid, expanding even further this library’s versatility.

  • Effects

Additional effects can be used to adjust each setting even further. An EQ can help shape the tonal aspect of the piano sound, and there’s a dedicated menu for the volume on the lower keys, so the bass sounds just as bright as in reality.

Dedicated faders to control the “Tonal Depth” and “Transients” help make it sound even more natural, from subtle to dramatic configurations.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for macOS 10.14, 10.15, 11, or 12 (latest update), and Windows 10 64-bit only (latest Service Pack). It comes in VST, VST3, AAX, and AU plugin formats. Intel Core i5 or equivalent and minimum 4 GB RAM recommended.

Summary:

Fitting in many music genres, The Grandeur is an excellent option from Native Instruments to fit the needs of a modern producer requiring a wonderful grand piano sound. The intuitive interface was designed to simplify things with appropriate controls and easy-to-use tools.

It’s awesome how you can tweak the ambiance and the piano’s dynamics at the same window, and such easiness will reflect on a more fluid and natural workflow.

Related Reading:

11 Best Rhodes Plugins (+5 FREE Plugins)

7. Native Instruments Alicia’s Keys

More Info & Price 

Alicia’s Keys is a piano sampled from Alicia’s own playing, recorded at her studio under the supervision of her most trusted engineer.

Alicia Keys has helped design a virtual piano that fits her musicality and exemplifies the blissful sound that has become her signature as a superstar, collaborating with Danish producer Thomas Skarbye (better known as Scarbee) and impulse response specialist Ernest Cholakis.

This piano sound has propelled Miss Keys to the top of the charts and won her many Grammys.

Thomas Skarbye, Kontakt script developer Nils Liberg, and Grammy-award-winning engineer Ann Mincieli meticulously recorded the magnificent and unique sound of Alicia’s Yamaha C3 Neo grand piano, making this special instrument available to everyone.

The team captured the warm, soulful, and inspirational sound of the C3 Neo down to the slightest details using vintage microphones and preamps and thoroughly researched many of Alicia’s performances.

Native Instruments Alicia's Keys - Top 9 Piano Kontakt Sample Libraries And 5 Best Free Pianos | Integraudio.com

Key Features:

  • Based on a unique instrument

All the sounds come from Alicia’s personal Yamaha C3 Neo grand piano. This instrument was built to celebrate Yamaha’s 100th anniversary, representing the very best of the Conservatory Collection line. Such exclusive access to a high-end device is a bonus, getting even closer to her musical style.

  • Authentic sounds

There are external factors that make a sampling experience even closer to reality. One simple example is any noises generated by playing a real instrument, and Alicia’s Keys features some of these.

For instance, you can have mechanical release noises, string resonances, and even the noise of Alicia’s fingers hitting the keys (optional). All of this contributes to a more realistic experience.

  • All the effects you’ll need

Some particular effects can increase the authenticity of a sample library, and they’re all here. A convolution reverb, digital ambiance, and even stereo imaging are some of the tools that can make it sound realistic and the exact way you want it.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for macOS 10.14, 10.15, 11, or 12 (latest update), and Windows 10 64-bit only (latest Service Pack). It comes in VST, VST3, AAX, and AU plugin formats. Intel Core i5 or equivalent and minimum 4 GB RAM recommended.

Summary:

Although it may be limited to a very specific sound, Alicia’s Keys is a nice rendition of an instrument connected to a particular artist in a meaningful way.

If you’re into Alicia Keys’ style, this might be a perfect choice, but it also works if you’re looking for a pop-oriented library. All functions are common in other libraries, but it’s impressive how accurate this recreation turned out to be.

Related Reading:

Top 12 Orchestral VST Plugins & Kontakt Libraries (+ FREE Plugins)

8. Native Instruments The Maverick

More Info & Price 

This collection is all about capturing the true essence of a vintage grand piano right at your DAW.

The Maverick is a flawless replica of an acoustically unique instrument — a 1905 concert grand built for Prince Frederick William of Prussia. This plugin offers a wide spectrum of color and an unusual sound, with each key having its own personality – it’s a one-of-a-kind piano made for royalty.

This incredible library creates a unique sound that works well in pop, rock, jazz, and a variety of other genres. This virtual instrument was meticulously captured, with over 2,500 unique samples spread across 18 velocity levels.

Its natural harmonics ring out nicely thanks to isolated overtone and resonance samples. Even the most important releases were captured with nine velocity levels for maximum realism.

Top 8 Piano VST Plugins 2024 (And 9 Best Kontakt Libraries) - 2024 Update

Key Features:

  • Exquisite recreation

Although this plugin might have very similar controls as other Native Instruments products in this list, The Maverick excels in bringing a perfect, vintage-sounding instrument into your computer. The 1905 grand piano is a blissful instrument on its own, and unfortunately, it’s not common to have one hanging around so often.

The excellent quality of the samples reflects how good this instrument sounds and how effortlessly NI’s team worked to bring its best aspects to life.

  • Dedicated adjustments

You can bring the sound of this vintage piano to whatever mood you want, thanks to all the controls available. From gentle EQ tweaks to the expressive ambiance, you can set the tone of this magnificent instrument to your liking quickly and with a subtle response from the audio samples. Make it sound bigger, fuller, deeper, or brighter in a heartbeat, without complicated parameters in a polluted interface.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for macOS 10.14, 10.15, 11, or 12 (latest update), and Windows 10 64-bit only (latest Service Pack). It comes in VST, VST3, AAX, and AU plugin formats. Intel Core i5 or equivalent and minimum 4 GB RAM recommended.

Summary:

Companies like Native Instruments usually offer great choices within their instrument libraries when it comes to faithful recreations. The Maverick is special because of the source of all samples included: a magnificent vintage grand piano, built (quite literally) for royalty.

Having such an exquisite instrument captured into a wonderful set of microphones surely brings the essence of this software, although multiple tweaks and adjustments can be made to make it even more versatile.

9. Soundiron Emotional Piano

More Info & Price 

Emotional Piano is a versatile option for sound designers with a dedicated focus on soundtrack scoring and symphonic orchestration.

When they are heard, certain noises elicit a cascade of feelings in humans — a baby’s cry, a pleasant chuckle, a lover’s sigh, for example. Similarly, humans have been taught to hear various musical instruments in particular ways.

Specific instruments can trigger certain feelings, and Emotional Piano tries to do like so in a psychoacoustic experiment that will bring up the emotions on your track.

Soundiron developed this plugin based on a walnut-bodied Kawai grand piano that was chosen due to its soft, luminous warmth and rich, resonant timbre. Recorded with 15 velocity layers, every nuance of such an instrument was meant to be captured in order to provide the best audio experience possible.

The outcome isn’t as bright as some other piano libraries, but it’s arguably more emotional.

Soundiron Emotional Piano Review - Top 9 Piano Kontakt Sample Libraries And 5 Best Free Pianos | Integraudio.com

Key Features:

  • Multi-sampled keys

All 88 keys of this grand piano were carefully recorded multiple times, with many dynamic variations. A handful of microphones worked to capture every aspect of each key, bringing a more organic aspect to every audio sample.

  • Well-suited for scoring

The array of emotions propelled by a piano being played in the right way can be the key element to your score or soundtrack to stand out. Emotional Piano is intended to excel at how emotive your track can be, so controls like the “Velocity Range” can help smoothen out things and create more delicate dynamic layers to your taste.

  • Many presets available

Every good library can feature thousands of presets, but Emotional Piano gathers up good presets that are ready to fit your mood cleverly.

Instead of adding an FX tab to the UI for all of these extra NKI presets, Soundiron did the hard work for you and went far into the Kontakt engine’s deeper modulation, convolution reverb, and insert FX capabilities. Your favorite sounds can be accessed much quicker, with ready-to-use effects and settings.

Compatibility:

The plugin is available for macOS 10.9 or higher and Windows XP or higher. It comes in VST, AAX, and AU plugin formats. Fee version of Kontakt Player supported.

Summary:

Emotional Piano deserves some kudos for setting a perfect mood for specific usage of an instrument such as a piano. It’s ideal for film and television scoring, and it’ll also work well in modern pop and independent productions, particularly on slower-tempo tracks.

Unquestionably, the sound of this plugin is rich and deep, but the amount of expressiveness it can elicit is admirable. The power of a superb sample library sometimes comes not from the sampled audio’s pure quality but from how it makes you feel when you play it.

5 Best Free Piano Kontakt Libraries 2024

1. Echo Sound Works Denver Grand Piano

More Info & Download

An excellent free library collection of high-quality piano samples, Denver Grand Piano can be the missing ingredient of your next track.

Offered by the same developers that created the out-of-the-box Loft Piano, Denver Grand Piano is a straightforward option designed for producers who look for a decent freeware option for high-quality piano samples.

Focused on bringing a modern aspect throughout the samples, this plugin is very simple to use and can offer the perfect classic vibe that only a grand piano can offer.

Echo Sound Works Denver Grand Piano - The 5 Best Free Piano Kontakt Libraries | Integraudio.com

Key Features:

  • Four presets

There are four presets available: “Denver Grand Main,” “Denver Grand Cassette,” “Denver Modern House,” and “Denver Grand Ambient.” Each preset enhances a specific aspect of the instrument, whether a classic grand piano sound, a resampled sound through a tape cassette, or even a mode dedicated to simulating a Korg M1 piano.

  • 100% royalty-free

You can use every loop, sample, and preset present on Denver Grand Piano in any commercial releases you’d like, so you don’t have to pay anything for the developers. This is captivating for young or inexperienced music producers who want a reliable, free-to-use sample library.

Compatibility:

This library runs in FL Studio version 20 (or higher), Logic Pro X version 10.4 (or higher), or Ableton Live version 10 (or higher).

Summary:

Echo Sound Works’ team wanted to contribute with a library that could offer high-quality audio files while being free at the same time, so more producers could benefit from a decent virtual instrument.

If you’re beginning to dwell in the production world or your budget isn’t good at this moment, Denver Grand Piano is a nice library that captures the essence of such an instrument in a straightforward design interface. It can be very helpful to use software like this in order to achieve good-sounding results in your next production.

Related Reading:

20 Best FREE Kontakt Libraries For Various Categories

2. Pianobook The Hoffman

More Info & Download

An instrument with much history has been sampled into this nice collection that evokes a very authentic feeling.

Anders Wall managed to get his hands into a piano that once belonged to the Swedish Broadcast Corporation and incorporated it into his studio, featuring it into many tracks and records. The problem is that eventually, he had to move it all up, and the piano got damaged during transportation.

Although insurance fixed most of his gear, this piano never got fully back to what it was before, creating a unique aspect of its sound. These samples try to reflect this essence in a simple interface design in the best way possible.

Pianobook The Hofman - The 5 Best Free Piano Kontakt Libraries | Integraudio.com

Key Features:

  • Authentic vibe

The sound character of an instrument can bring tons of personality and an organic layer to whatever notes you play. No matter the situation or the genre, having such a unique-sounding instrument usually comes with a price tag attached to it, but gladly Pianobook famously offers great free options for good-quality virtual instruments.

  • Basic settings

As basic as it gets, you don’t get many effects or options with this library. IR samples are included, as well as two effects layers that may be accessed using the mod wheel. A sustain pedal script is also included, which bypasses the release samples when you press the pedal.

Compatibility:

This library works only on the full version of Kontakt 5.3 or higher.

Summary:

A simple library, but still full of character. The Hoffman is a nice option to get a different-sounding piano with many uniqueness and personality. Usually, such a feature is justified by a small fee, but Pianobook successfully delivers a nice, lightweight option worth keeping nearby. It’s worth trying it into modern tracks or even some experimental soundtrack scores.

3. Pianobook HYUNDAI U852

More Info & Download

Based on a church piano, this collection evokes good ambiance sounds, and light dynamics in a simple design interface.

The piano sampled in this library is located in the chapel corner of a Latter-Day Saint meeting house. Samuel P. Davis was captivated by its unique sound and texture, and thanks to the sampling technology available these days, it’s now possible to take all the best aspects of the instrument straight into your preferred DAW.

Pianobook HYUNDAI U852 - The 5 Best Free Piano Kontakt Libraries | Integraudio.com

Key Features:

  • Smooth character

This piano brings a very romantic, cinematic sounding to any chord progression played. It’s lovely how it can blend so easily and fill the empty blanks on a dynamic soundscape, creating beautiful scenarios in the upper registers.

  • EQ and delay

You have three small knobs that can help shape the atmosphere better: “Low Pass” and “High Pass” knobs take care of the exact frequency range to be cut-off, while the “Delay Time” simply controls the appropriate time in which the effect will act. Combining these three controls can alter the final sound significantly, fitting in most ethereal tracks.

Compatibility:

This library works only on the full version of Kontakt 5.3 or higher.

Summary:

A very smooth, rich-sounding, and evocative piano voicing is present in HYUNDAI U852. It has a natural property that leans toward airy tracks, especially cinematic ambiances. Although very helpful to anyone looking for this kind of sound, this library can be limiting if a more energetic or big-sounding aspect is needed.

4. Pianobook Rolling Piano

More Info & Download

This library reunites great samples recorded from a home piano, with some special functionalities.

David Bergman wanted to experiment with sampling his own home piano, only to see how that would turn out. The results were pretty satisfying, with every subtle nuance captured in excellence and delivering a pleasant piano sound.

The dynamics are very responsive, as the attack time is responsive to the velocity – the harder you hit, the quicker the notes come in.

Pianobook Rolling Piano - The 5 Best Free Piano Kontakt Libraries | Integraudio.com

Key Features:

  • Reverse samples

Dedicated volume control can bring up some nice reverse sounds that can blend easily with bold and modern productions. A “Forward” volume is also present, and you can freely combine both controls to create natural textures that can fit well into atmospheric tracks.

  • Hidden pad

David decided to include an easter egg inside this software: a hidden “Noisy Pad” control that can add a layer of selected noises, so the final sound result can become new, organic, and natural, just like playing a real instrument.

Compatibility:

This library works only on the full version of Kontakt 5.3 or higher.

Summary:

This is a good option for experimental sounds and modern productions. The samples are of good quality, but how you tweak each note is set between many controls on the interface, such as “Resonance” and “Reverb.”

The nice addition of reversed samples can make everything even more experimental and progressive, showcasing a rarely-used feature on virtual piano renditions.

5. Pianobook The King’s Upright

More Info & Download

A delicate upright piano with a lovely tone palette that cuts through the mix.

With notable softness, this grand piano was developed by Dan Keen to have a strong, defined sound profile and stand out from other similar libraries. It sounds fantastic in the upper-middle register, a perfect choice for lyrical melodies in pieces, scores, or solo works.

Pianobook The King's Upright - The 5 Best Free Piano Kontakt Libraries | Integraudio.com

Key Features:

  • Pad blend

A center knob is dedicated to a mod wheel controller, which can be used to alter the unique pad sound blend. You can also right-click the blend knob to instantly learn via any MIDI CC.

  • Excellent recording process

These samples were recorded using a pair of close-miked AKG C214s with a Saffire Pro 40 interface. This setting provides a natural resonance, almost as if you were in the same room as Dan when he played it. It also contains two dynamic layers and three round robins, so every small acoustic nuance is captured.

Compatibility:

This library works only on the full version of Kontakt 5.3 or higher.

Summary:

Subtleness and delicacy are two great ways to describe this library. The rich-sounding samples create the experience of a vibrant, vivid instrument that was carefully recorded. Although a bit too airy sometimes, this is another good option for producers looking for great textures and ambient sounds.

Bonus:

Echo Sound Works Loft Piano

More Info & Price 

Loft Piano is the perfect choice for a refreshed take on a classic instrument, with a dedicated approach to specific genres.

Some piano libraries might focus on getting that perfect sound from a particularly coveted instrument, while others tend to focus on a diverse array of samples. On the other hand, Loft Piano is innovative because it claims to be focused on popular genres such as Lofi, Trap & Hip Hop, EDM, and Pop.

The Loft Piano is based on a sampled upright grand piano recorded in a loft – that’s where it gets its name from. To record the sound, Echo Sound Works’ team employed four microphones and recorded each key sound, hammer noise, and string reverberation, so every nuance of the instrument would be translated into the samples.

And talking about samples, the main collection is a 3x round-robin, resulting in an incredibly genuine and rich sound.

Loft Piano - Top 9 Piano Kontakt Sample Libraries And 5 Best Free Pianos | Integraudio.com

Key Features:

  • High-quality samples

Echo Sound Works wanted to ensure the best possible audio quality to be present in this collection, so they haven’t spared any equipment on the recording process. They used two large diaphragm condenser mics (Neumann UI 87) and two pencil condensers to capture all the +1,500 samples present in this library.

  • Clean edits

Aside from a meticulously recording process, the team wanted to have all samples cleaned up, so any imperfections would be left out of the final result. Each individual sample was edited and processed, so the cleanest sound possible would’ve come out.

  • Awesome algorithm

A nice algorithm can lead up to more natural and organic responses from a virtual instrument, especially one so dependent on acoustics as a grand piano is. For this, a custom KSP script was developed to handle the round-robin and allow you to control the best features of the piano’s sound.

Compatibility:

This library is compatible with the full version of Kontakt 6.5.2 and does not work with the free Kontakt Player.

Summary:

Loft Piano is a refreshed alternative for anyone seeking a different piano library. Its main focus is to deliver a versatile yet highly customizable piano sample collection that should cover the most popular modern musical genres.

The excellent audio quality of the samples is a must, but the algorithm present is a nice touch from the team of developers that can make it sound as authentic as a real piano would’ve.

Can you teach yourself piano?

Yes, you can. And what’s more, it’s a very rewarding journey. Being able to play Canon in D for the first time is a proud moment, and it’s absolutely okay to feel that way too! However, to reach the levels of pianists we admire, you will need to put in a lot of practice, where self-reward helps a lot. 

If you wish to teach yourself something, figure out what motivates you. For me, I love performing for others. But how do you do that if you have no audience? Well, something as simple as recording yourself playing and sending it via Telegram or Messenger to a friend can be gratifying. And looking forward to doing so drives you. 

Surround yourself with friends and family who support your learning or are learning instruments themselves. It doesn’t matter if it’s online or offline. Either way, you will find yourself greatly motivated to continue working. 

Is a piano lesson worth it?

In short, yes. However, it is particularly essential to become a piano performer and perhaps also read sheet music. If you are someone who just wants to play some riffs and your favorite hit songs, you can easily learn from YouTube videos, books, apps, online courses, and so on without an instructor.

Are piano learning apps worth it?

They are worth it if you use a MIDI keyboard (not a touch screen) and give it the amount of practice and diligence necessary. However, most piano apps don’t teach you proper fingering and posture techniques. So, make sure you at least purchase a guidebook to help you learn good habits while playing. You can check online piano lessons here (free & paid)

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