This is NOT a Piano vs Montclarion Hall Grand Piano

The fundamental distinction between these instruments lies in their sonic origin and intended application. Audio Brewers' "This is NOT a Piano" is an experimental sound design tool, generating its sounds digitally and then re-recording them through the resonant body of an upright piano, while Soundiron's "Montclarion Hall Grand Piano" is a traditional sampled grand piano, specifically a 1926 Steinway.

"This is NOT a Piano" emphasizes textural and atmospheric qualities, offering 20 tailor-made articulations and dedicated keystroke samples for a piano-like feel, despite not being a piano itself. It also provides independent sustain and pedal-down samples and is recorded in both Ambisonics and Stereo. In contrast, the "Montclarion Hall Grand Piano" captures the natural acoustics of a Steinway grand recorded in a unique A-frame chapel, featuring standard grand piano articulations alongside extended prepared piano effects.

Choose "This is NOT a Piano" if your primary need is for experimental, atmospheric, or sound design elements suitable for film scoring or ambient music, valuing unique resonance and spatial immersion over authentic piano timbre. Opt for "Montclarion Hall Grand Piano" if you require a versatile, natural-sounding grand piano with a balanced, bright character for classical, film scoring, or traditional pop/jazz, appreciating both standard and creatively extended piano articulations.

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.

Montclarion Hall Grand Piano

  • Worth the price, but not suited as a main piano.
  • The room and hall contribute significantly to the Montclarion Hall Grand Piano's sound.
  • This is a steal for only 50 bucks imo, ive heard more expensive piano libraries that doesnt sound as good
  • Dislikes the default negative gain setting.
  • Least favorite of the four, but notes cool custom presets.

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