Hello basically I want to try and achieve this sound by Daisuke Tanabe Artificial Sweetner

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_SKeV8TS5Y&feature=fvwp&NR=1

Basically the part at the beginning I don't know if it's sampled due to the gritty distorted sound but It reminds me alot of Tycho's signature sound but more gritty and atmospheric. The thing is I don't know how he achieved this and if it's just a heavily altered piano because I'm quite new as to making new sounds outside of pre-sets and altering pre-sets. Would be great for some help and for just general knowledge as I don't know what to search for. Thanks