Modartt releases 'U4' Upright Piano add-on for Pianoteq (+updates Pianoteq to v4.5)

Modartt has released U4, an upright piano add-on for Pianoteq, which has been updated to version 4.5. The improved physical model in the update also benefits the grand pianos 'D4', 'K1', 'YC5' and Blüthner Model 1.

U4 Upright Piano Add-on

The U4 emphasizes the characteristics of upright pianos, offering 21 presets demonstrating the versatility of the instrument. Besides the beautiful timbre of well-built acoustic pianos, there is higher inharmonicity and increased "imperfections" in presets such as Blues, Vintage, Honky Tonk, Detuned, Ruined, Bierkeller, Tacky, Wavy, Weathered, Club, ...

In contrast to the grand piano, the upright piano is vertically strung and with soundboard and bridges vertical as well. The first instrument resembling an upright piano appeared in 1739 and a more modern variant in 1800. Mass production followed as the instrument improved by the addition of an iron frame and a larger octave range. The compact size and affordable price made it increasingly popular for use in many smaller music halls, pubs and private homes.

Legendary composers such as Scott Joplin, George Gershwin, Duke Ellington, Thelonius Monk, Jerry Lee Lewis and Little Richard all started their music careers on upright pianos.

Updated Physical Model

Version 4.5 of Pianoteq uses an improved physical model of the hammer/string interaction which also benefits the D4, K1, YC5 and Blüthner Model 1 grand pianos. The timbre variation is now more refined, bringing more intimacy at pianissimo and stronger attack at fortissimo.

Version 4.5 also includes a new Condition parameter which lets you modify with a simple click the state of the instrument, from freshly-tuned to completely worn-out.

Summary of changes in v4.5.0:

• New add-on instrument: the upright piano U4.
• The others grand pianos benefit from model improvements: D4, K1, YC5 and Bluethner have been updated and improved.
• New 'Condition' parameter: turn a perfect instrument into a worn out, detuned and broken instrument, with a single click.
• New 'Unison Balance' parameter (available in Note-Edit with Pro version, and via right-click on the unison slider in Pianoteq Standard).
• Fullscreen mode.
• Linux version is now also available as a LV2 plugin.

Pricing

The U4 Upright Piano add-on is included for evaluation in the latest update 4.5 of Pianoteq and can be activated for 49 € ($59).

Listen to audio samples and download a free trial version at www.pianoteq.com.