Steinberg Media Technologies has released Neo Soul Keys, a new VST instruments that recreates the sound of one of the most popular electric pianos of the past.

"Neo Soul Keys takes virtual e-pianos to a new level. It's amazing just how authentic and vivid the play and feel of this instrument has become," remarked Matthias Quellmann, product marketing manager at Steinberg.

In collaboration with Gospel Musicians, Neo Soul Keys offers users a unique and authentic-sounding e-piano experience. Based on the powerful HALion engine and sampled with 12 velocity layers for sustain, release and staccato notes, the Neo Soul Keys virtual electric piano features sound quality and playability on par with the real world, say Steinberg.

Employing the VST Amp Rack technology first introduced to Steinberg's Cubase 6 production software, Neo Soul Keys features six different amp types and a comprehensive set of studio effects, such as vibrato, tube distortion, flanger, phaser, chorus, delay, reverb and wah. Also included are bell, pedal and key noises to reproduce all aspects of piano sound plus more than 40 presets that allow users instantly to hone in on various timbres.

Neo Soul Keys can be used as a plug-in in every VST 3, VST 2 and AU compatible host as well as library expansion in HALion Sonic, HALion Sonic SE and HALion 4.

Features at a glance:

• Faithful sampling of original Mark I suitcase piano with multiple velocity layers of sustain, release and staccato notes.
• Elaborate interface for direct access and intuitive workflows.
• VST Amp simulation with 6 different classic amp types.
• Effect section including tube distortion, chorus, flanger, phaser, delay, reverb and virtual wah pedal.
• Vintage modeled vibrato with intensity and speed control.
• Realistic sounds with level controls for bell, pedal and key noises.
• Authentic bass, mid and treble boost to recreate the original sound.
• Adjustable velocity curves for individual playing behavior.
• Dedicated "bark" samples for classic grit sounds for authentic vintage sounds.
• Virtual microphone simulation with axis and off-axis positioning, and condensed and tube microphone types.
• MIDI Learn and automation functions for all parameters.
• VST 3, VST 2 and AU host compatibility as standalone plug-in.
• Full accessibility in HALion Sonic (1.6.2 or higher), HALion Sonic SE and HALion (4.5.3 or higher).
• Cross-platform 32/64-bit for Windows and Mac OS X.

Availability and pricing

Neo Soul Keys is available as download through the Steinberg Online Shop. The retail price is €79.99 including German VAT.