Grand Rhapsody Piano vs New York L 1991

Grand Rhapsody Piano by Waves and New York L 1991 by Boz Digital Labs are both sampled grand piano VSTs, but they diverge in their source instruments and library scope. Waves' Grand Rhapsody is sourced from a Fazioli F228, known for its distinct voice, while Boz Digital Labs' New York L 1991 is based on a specific Steinway Model L from 1991, emphasizing its pristine, restored condition.

A primary technical distinction lies in their mic positions and library sizes. Grand Rhapsody offers a comprehensive eight microphone positions, including condenser, dynamic, ribbon, and room options, alongside 19 velocity layers, resulting in a substantial 30 GB library. In contrast, New York L 1991 provides five microphone positions and a significantly more compact 6 GB library, with an additional "Lite" option utilizing key stretching to reduce its footprint to 45 MB. Grand Rhapsody also uniquely offers a standalone application.

Choose Grand Rhapsody Piano if extensive microphone flexibility, a larger sonic palette via more velocity layers, and a Fazioli grand's character are priorities, or if a standalone application is desired. Opt for New York L 1991 if a precisely sampled, clean Steinway Model L sound from a more compact library is preferred, especially for classical or jazz recording applications where elegance and detail are paramount.

Products Compared

Insights from Real-World Use

Grand Rhapsody Piano

  • Grand Rhapsody Piano offers versatile sound customization, perfect for warming up or creating various acoustic environments.
  • In my opinion, Waves Grand Rhapsody Piano is the best option. It's really comfortable to play, has amazing different presets, and fits really well inside a...
  • In my opinion, Waves, Grand Rhapsody Piano is the best option. It's really comfortable to play, has amazing different presets, and fits really well inside a...
  • And they're really good! ... Waves Grand Rhapsody has pedal sounds on the sustain. It caught me by surprise the first time I heard it...
  • Native instruments Noire! for now anyway. but this one is not far behind. infect lately i'm playing this Vst the most.

New York L 1991

  • These pianos have LOTS of character. And now that the Bösendorfer 170VC is out (and there is a sale), I just couldn't resist.
  • Enjoys the unique character of the piano sound.
  • Strong preference for the 1991 plugin.
  • All the Boz plugins have great dynamic response, at least for the way I play and the controllers I use. The only issue I’ve found is that the Tone knob is too drastic for my taste and is basically onl
  • this piano sounds INCREDIBLE... it was only $29? Insane. I love Boz Digital plugins and this is no exception.