Modartt updates Pianoteq to v8.4.0 and releases Shigeru Kawai SK-EX Concert Grand

Modartt has updated Pianoteq to v8.4.0 and announced the release of the SK-EX Concert Grand instrument expansion for Pianoteq, describing it as "the first physical model of Shigeru Kawai SK-EX Concert Grand piano, authorized by Kawai".

The Shigeru Kawai SK-EX Concert Grand can be purchased for €49/$49 and is accessible in the latest update 8.4 of Pianoteq for evaluation.

Here's what they say about SK-EX Concert Grand:

The SK-EX Concert Grand is the pinnacle of Shigeru Kawai pianos, meticulously handcrafted in Ryuyo, Japan by extraordinarily skilled craftsmen, and prepared to perfection by Kawai's Master Piano Artisans. Each year, no more than 20 units are shaped and honed by these expert hands, providing a remarkable tone and a stunning response.

Modartt research engineers developed a faithful physical model that captures the unique sound of the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX, from its hand-wound temaki bass strings to the shimmering brilliance of its highest notes. This Pianoteq model offers an exceptionally broad dynamic spectrum and superb power, suitable for pianists, producers, and composers alike.

Modartt and Kawai share a common philosophy: true artistry is a continuous evolution, always striving towards excellence. For this reason, the physical model at the heart of Pianoteq is constantly refined, providing an increasingly inspiring playing and listening experience. Extensive listening sessions and adjustments led Modartt to design 15 unique configurations of microphones, room settings and piano voicing, fitting many styles and approaches.

YouTube.com/watch?v=EJdCHMdJSC4

Summary of changes in Pianoteq v8.4.0:

• New grand piano: Grand Shigeru Kawai SK-EX.
• New microphones added: a perfect-cardioid microphone, and the legendary M49 tube microphone.
• Fixed cropped microtuning and microphone panels in compact view mode.
• Add copy/paste options in the note-edit menu for iOS users.
• Minor corrections to the Bösendorfer (C#4, E2).
• (iOS only) Added an optional timeout for the background audio option.
• (iOS only) The app now creates a virtual MIDI input, allowing it to receive MIDI events from other iOS sequencers without using the AUv3 plugin.