Ivy Audio Piano In 162 Best |top| Jun 2026

The Ivy Audio Piano in 162 is a free sample library created by , an undergraduate student at the University of Arizona, as a side project. Over six months, Dalzell painstakingly recorded, edited, and programmed over 3,500 individual samples, resulting in a 5GB+ collection of audio that captured the sound of a Steinway Model B grand piano.

Additionally, the inclusion of separate pedal-up and pedal-down samples means that the natural sympathetic resonance of the piano body is fully preserved when the sustain pedal is engaged. 2. Versatile Dual-Microphone Mixing

Unlike many free pianos that feel thin or unnatural, Piano in 162 focuses on capturing a rich, intimate tone—ideal for classical, cinematic, pop, and indie music. Why It's Among the Best: Key Features 1. Incredible Sound Quality & Intimacy

The library features per note, creating a detailed, lively, and natural-sounding piano that avoids the monotonous "machine-gun" effect found in some libraries. This setup covers most musical needs, though one user noted that more velocity layers (like 12 or 16) could elevate it further. ivy audio piano in 162 best

Released with the intention of providing a professional-grade grand piano experience to everyone, Piano in 162 has cemented its reputation as arguably the "best free piano" available. In this article, we will explore why this Steinway Model A grand piano library is a staple in many home studios. What is Ivy Audio Piano in 162?

Whether you are a beginner on a budget or a professional producer looking for a specific classical tone, this library delivers exceptional realism without costing a dime. What is Piano in 162?

Let's break down these best-in-class features in detail: The Ivy Audio Piano in 162 is a

Using the free SFZ version is often the preferred method for many musicians, as it entirely bypasses the Kontakt requirement.

The Ivy Audio Piano in 162 comes with a 5-year warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship.

The sound of the Ivy Audio Piano in 162 is perhaps its most debated and beloved attribute. It's not a sterile, polished, "perfect" grand piano. Instead, it has a distinct character that sets it apart from more clinical libraries. Incredible Sound Quality & Intimacy The library features

To ensure a realistic response to your playing, the library features five separate dynamic layers per note. This means the sample player triggers a different recording based on how hard or soft you hit the key, accurately recreating the tonal and volume nuances of an acoustic piano. The transition between these layers is generally smooth, although some power users have noted a slight jump in character at higher velocities.

"Piano in 162 by Ivy Audio is a lovely sample of a Steinway Model B grand piano. That helps keep it CPU friendly while you’re getting your piano jams on." - Gearspace Thread

The Steinway Model B is an iconic 6'11" parlor grand piano famous for its balanced tone—warm lows, clear mid-tones, and a brilliant upper register. Piano in 162 captures this organic personality perfectly. Unlike heavily processed commercial pianos engineered for aggressive pop music, this library maintains a raw, natural, and highly dynamic sound. 2. Dual Microphone Mix Controls