Pianoteq 9 Has Arrived: The Future of Virtual Pianos is Here (And It's Not Samples!)

Big news for keyboardists, producers, and sound designers! We're thrilled to announce the release of Modartt's Pianoteq 9, the latest version of the award-winning virtual instrument suite. If you're tired of massive sample libraries and looking for an instrument that truly feels alive, this is the one you've been waiting for.

Pianoteq isn't just another piano plugin; it's a suite of physically modelled instruments. This fundamental difference is the secret to its stunning sound and playability.

Stop Triggering Samples, Start Performing

For decades, digital pianos have relied on "sampling"—recording a real piano note by note. While this can sound good, it has limitations. Samples are static; you're essentially just "replaying" a recording. They can't capture the infinite complexity and organic resonance of a real instrument, and they consume massive amounts of disk space and RAM.

Pianoteq does away with samples entirely.

Using advanced physical modelling, every single note is generated in real-time as you play. The software simulates the entire piano mechanism: the hammers, the strings, the soundboard, and how they all interact.

You don't just hear a recording; you feel a living, breathing instrument. You can hear the sublime, organic effect of the sustain pedal raising all 88 dampers, allowing over 200 strings to "sing" in sympathetic resonance. It’s a level of realism that samples simply cannot touch.

Unprecedented Customisation

Because Pianoteq is a simulation, you can change the very nature of the instrument. This is where it becomes a sound designer's dream.

Want to soften or harden the hammerheads? Adjust the tuning of individual strings to create unique beating? Tweak the cabinet and soundboard response? With Pianoteq Standard and PRO, you get an unparalleled array of tools to shape your perfect tone. The PRO version even offers exclusive note-per-note adjustments for the ultimate deep dive.

This extends to playability, too. Pianoteq features a seamless dynamic response (with 127 velocities and beyond) and a Keyboard Calibration Assistant to perfectly tailor the instrument's touch to your specific MIDI controller.

Lightweight, Fast, and Ready for Anything

One of the most incredible benefits of physical modelling is its efficiency. The entire Pianoteq 9 software is incredibly lightweight. It installs in seconds, loads instantly, and runs on PC, Mac, Linux, and even iOS devices.

It works as a standalone instrument or as a plugin (VST3, AAX, LV2, and AudioUnits), making it a perfect fit for any studio workflow, from a laptop on the go to a full-scale professional rig.

More Than Just Pianos

While Pianoteq features stunning, physically modelled grand pianos endorsed by world-leading manufacturers, it doesn't stop there. You can choose from a library of over 20 instrument packs, including iconic electric pianos, plucked strings, historical keyboards, and much more.

Find Your Perfect Tier: The New Pianoteq 9 Lineup

Modartt has structured Pianoteq 9 into four new tiers, making it easy to find the package that's right for your needs and budget.

• Pianoteq 9 Stage: The essential package, perfect for performers. Includes 2 Instrument Packs of your choice.

• Pianoteq 9 Standard: The choice for serious musicians and composers. Includes 3 Instrument Packs and advanced sound-shaping tools.

• Pianoteq 9 PRO: The ultimate tool for sound designers and studio professionals. Includes 4 Instrument Packs and note-per-note editing.

• Pianoteq 9 Studio Bundle : The complete collection. Includes all currently available Instrument Packs.

Ready to make the leap from static samples to a truly expressive and limitless virtual instrument? Pianoteq 9 is the new standard.