Ravenscroft 275 vs Modern D

The fundamental distinction between Ravenscroft 275 and Modern D lies in their sampled source instruments and the depth of their sampling. The Ravenscroft 275 originates from a Ravenscroft Model D concert grand, whereas Modern D is based on a Steinway Model D. This results in distinct tonal qualities inherited from their respective acoustic counterparts.

Modern D features a significantly larger sample library, with 34,615 samples compared to Ravenscroft 275's 17,000, and includes an additional microphone position (5 vs. 4). Modern D also incorporates a "Natural Response" method, which aims to capture the full dynamic range of each key, along with extensive detail including 2,500 release trails per mic, multi-layered sympathetic resonances, and dedicated samples for Una Corda, Muted Strikes, Half Pedal, Silent Strikes, and various pedal/key noises. In contrast, Ravenscroft 275 focuses on a cleaner, more balanced sound with 19 velocity layers.

Choose Ravenscroft 275 for a balanced, modern concert grand sound with a slightly smaller footprint suitable for classical and jazz recordings. Choose Modern D for a more detailed and expressive Steinway Model D experience, particularly beneficial for film scoring and productions requiring highly nuanced playback with advanced sympathetic resonances and pedal behaviors.

Products Compared

Insights from Real-World Use

Ravenscroft 275

  • Recalls the plugin's realism, comparing it to playing a real Ravenscroft 275.
  • Ravenscroft 275 is one of speaker's two favorite iPad pianos, alongside Audio Kit's Retro Piano.
  • Great buy, top five; a middle ground between Keyscape and Pianoteq, excellent sound.
  • Describes the plugin as a beautiful, almost perfect capture that vividly transports him back to the real piano.
  • Highly positive review, praising the piano's richness, expressiveness, and value for money.

Modern D

  • The Claire had a nice upper range, but it really felt dead in the lower mid range. The Modern D sings throughout all the registers. IMO, it's the best virtual piano on the market today.
  • I just picked up the Steinway D, I must say, I was veeery hesitant. I own some other vilabs pianos, The Ravenscroft among them, and feel like those instruments did not live up to their hype. That said
  • I purchased it today after listening to this excellent demo. It sounds pretty realistic and may work better in my pop-rock tracks than Ivory American D or the Keyscape C7 I've been using. I had to bri
  • It sounds very nice, but (to my ear) not as good as my custom C. Bechstein DG preset on Pianoteq, so... for now, I'll keep my wallet in my pocket.
  • Modern D's playability is awesome and better than Garritan CFX and Fazioli.

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