This is NOT a Piano vs Ascend Modern Grand

The fundamental distinction between these two instruments lies in their core sound source and intended application. While Ascend Modern Grand is a traditionally sampled grand piano, albeit with significant creative processing, "This is NOT a Piano" is explicitly designed *not* to be a piano, instead using the resonance of an upright piano to modify pre-designed sounds.

Ascend Modern Grand offers a reimagined Steinway Model D with creative articulations and a 2D mixer, providing granular control over piano mechanics for shaping its atmospheric, dark, and experimental character while remaining grounded in a grand piano’s timbre. Conversely, "This is NOT a Piano" features 20 tailor-made articulations played *through* an upright piano, providing experimental, textural sounds with dedicated "Keystroke" samples to simulate the feel of playing an instrument that isn't functionally a piano. It also boasts independent sustains and Ambisonics/Stereo recording.

Choose Ascend Modern Grand if you prioritize a deeply manipulable grand piano sound, ideal for atmospheric and experimental takes on a classic instrument. Choose "This is NOT a Piano" if your focus is on unique sound design, film scoring, and ambient textures, leveraging the unique resonance of a piano body to create sounds that are explicitly non-pianistic in origin.

Products Compared

Insights from Real-World Use

This is NOT a Piano

  • This is NOT a Piano's modulation, layers, effects, and articulations make it a great instrument.
  • Programming This is NOT a Piano is fun, with powerful and terrific effects in Kontakt.
  • This is NOT a Piano is a super unique instrument unlike any other.
  • The sound is gold for underscore work in documentaries.
  • This is NOT a Piano offers a beautiful and diverse selection of sounds, like a grab bag.

Ascend Modern Grand

  • Says Ascend Modern Grand is roughly equivalent to NI Noire; sampled from Steinway.
  • Prefers Noire, but price and size make Ascend worth considering despite preference.
  • Highlights advantage of using it as both regular piano and cinematic instrument.
  • Core piano tone sounds like a really nice concert grand with plenty to explore.
  • Decided it was worth buying; cool piano library with Heavyocity’s magic.

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