New App, Pianoteq iOS by Modartt is here


The acclaimed physical modelling keyboard instrument goes mobile.

Pianoteq comes to iOS, and if you own the desktop version, you will get it for free

Pianoteq iOS the mobile version is said to be an exact replica of the desktop software (now up to version 8), but with a reworked interface. In addition, we’re told that it will even work on older devices – right back to an iPhone 6s running iOS 15.

Unlike a lot of piano plugins, Pianoteq uses physical modelling to create its sounds rather than samples. This means that it can create a pretty broad variety of tones – not only acoustic pianos, but also electric ones, harpsichords, vibraphones, guitar, steeldrums and more. Another benefit is that it will take up very little storage space.

The iOS app itself is free. This enables you to demo all of the available sounds (certain keys will be disabled) and you can unlock your first two instrument packs by purchasing a Pianoteq Stage license (€139).

The good news is that, if you own the desktop version, you’ll immediately have access to the iOS one. Similarly, any licences you purchase via the App Store will carry over to the desktop version.

Pianoteq for iOS runs standalone and as an AUv3 plugin, so you can use it for playing and performing or in a suitable host. Find out more on the Modartt website.

Virsyn XinematiX brings Workstation-Class Sample Library to iOS

Virsyn has introduced XinematiX, a virtual instrument for iOS that they say brings workstation-class sample libraries to iOS.

XinematiX delivers over 25 GB of sounds, the result of over 3 years of recording and programming work by sample sound producer KARO Sound Development.

Features:

  • 990 programs available à la carte via in-app purchases
  • Excellent dynamics via velocity switching and clever programming.
  • Round Robin sample triggering will make your performances and productions sound more natural.
  • Multi power – Up to 3 different programs can be stacked simultaneously in a multi and either be crossfaded or layered.
  • MIDI Polyphonic Expression – XinematiX is compatible to the MPE standard allowing you to program sounds that behave more like acoustic instruments in terms of spontaneous, polyphonic sound control using appropriate MPE controllers.
  • Seamless transitions – special care is given that your sound never cuts off or glitches.
  • Multi power – Up to 3 different programs can be stacked simultaneously in a multi and either be crossfaded or layered for dramatic sound sculpting with the intuitive color-coded on-screen fader. Live Mode – organize your multis and programs for quick access in a dedicated Live Mode with 128 scenes and 16 tiles per screen.

Details on pricing and availability are to come at the Virsyn wesite.

UDO Audio Super Gemini In-Depth Demo

At Superbooth 2023, synth designer George Hearn from UDO Audio introduced their new synthesizer Super Gemini in this Gesprächskonzert.The Super Gemini is a 20-voice polyphonic, bi-timbral analog-hybrid flagship keyboard. UDO says that the keyboard gives you “immediate comprehensive control” over both timbral layers. Like the company’s Super 6, the Gemini can be used as a 20 voice synth, or as a 10-voice, true-stereo binaural synth.

The Super Gemini is equipped with a 61- note semi-weighted keybed with polyphonic aftertouch, in addition to a custom engineered ribbon sensor.

It has a hybrid voice architecture. Digital oscillators offer wave morphing, cross & ring modulation, bi-directional sync and more. These feed into an analog signal path that they say is by classic vintage instruments.

Details on the Super Gemini are still to come at the UDO website.