Synchron Bösendorfer Imperial vs Synchron Concert D-274

The fundamental distinction between these two sampled grand pianos lies in their source instruments: the Synchron Bösendorfer Imperial captures the unique characteristics of a Bösendorfer 290 Imperial, while the Synchron Concert D-274 meticulously samples a Steinway D-274. This difference in manufacturer and model results in distinct sonic profiles and features for each VST.

Technically, the Bösendorfer Imperial offers a broader range of mic positions (10 vs. 5) but has a smaller overall sample library size (42 GB) and fewer total samples (20,000) compared to the Steinway D-274’s 99,735 samples and 34 GB size. The Bösendorfer is characterized as warm, natural, and dramatic, emphasizing its extended bass notes and the "imperial" sound. In contrast, the Steinway D-274 is described as warm, atmospheric, and modern, highlighting its massive soundboard and powerful, ambient tone, along with six pre-configured presets.

Choose the Synchron Bösendorfer Imperial if you prioritize a unique, historically significant grand piano sound with dramatic character, emphasizing its extended bass notes and a wider array of microphone perspectives. Opt for the Synchron Concert D-274 if you seek the iconic, powerful Steinway sound, known for its versatility and modern ambiance, complemented by specific pre-configured sound profiles for various applications.

Products Compared

Insights from Real-World Use

Synchron Bösendorfer Imperial

  • Great great instrument, this video and composition shows the power of the bosendorfers imperial by vsl. Who could possibly think that one day we can olay the real instruments through our computers? Th
  • This new piano is bittersweet for me. I have had the Synchron Steinway D-274 for almost a year now and have become increasingly dissatisfied with its frequency imbalance – 7-10K is ear-piercing, espec
  • The piano is extremely versatile, with the best sound quality I've experienced.
  • Velocity curve adds bigger, bolder sound while retaining soft, delicate, warm qualities.
  • Unique 'two sus' feature adds realism and authenticity, feels like an acoustic piano.

Synchron Concert D-274

  • Hmm... this Steinway is also very nice. For Secret Base, the Yamaha sounds a bit better. For the Variations on a Theme piece, some high notes are on the right side, which I like, others were on the le
  • The Synchron player's mic mixer and diverse mic positions are highly appreciated.
  • The D-274 seems to be an ugly duckling, with an almost universal preference for the two sampled Bosendorfers or, alternatively, the quite distinctive Bluethner.
  • Hi, I share my VSL D-274 best settings, because the default VSL D-274 presets have some velocity and dynamics errors compared to a real Steinway D.
  • As for the key settings, with the Stenway D you have the possibility to change and modify every single key...I find myself much better with the Vienna Symponich Stenway D, but of course that's persona

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