PMI SUPER GROUP BUY!!

[Michiel Post]

Post Musical Instruments (http://www.postpiano.com) is pleased to start the PMI Super Group Buy


http://www.postpiano.com/_images/gb/Project22.gif

Click here to join the PMI SUPER Group Buy NOW! (http://www.mijnwinkel.nl/data/v8272/objects/c5/)


http://www.postpiano.com/_images/gb/current.jpg


Yes, it's time for the second PMI Group Buy on Northern Sounds. The first PMI Group Buy was a huge success and ended with over 750 buyers, reaching the lowest price in just 10 days! This time we have extra benefits beside a crazy discount: a free multi-format disk with scaled-down versions of 2 PMI pianos for all buyers, a COUPON that gives you 25% on future purchases, free copies of a new exciting magazine VIRTUAL INSTRUMENTS (http://www.virtualinstrumentsmag.com/) and a crazy referral full refund.


The PMI SUPER Group Buy Products

GRAND PIANO MAGIC Bundle (http://www.postpiano.com/products/prod_iteminfo.php?id=152&subCat=PIANO+MAGIC)
the ultimate grand piano collection with 7 superior grand pianos, harpsichords, prepared piano and more. There is nothing better on the market today!
Included are :
- Old Lady and EMPEROR grand pianos
- Grandioso Steinway D and Bosendorfer 290 grand pianos
- Yamaha C7 conservatory grand and Estonia Grand
- Piano Suite: Pristine Piano, Prepared Pianos, Orchestral Instruments
- A unique Fortepiano + 3 harpsichords
Total value: over $ 875

and/or

PMI CONSOLIDATED FULL (http://www.postpiano.com/products/prod_iteminfo.php?id=152&subCat=PIANO+MAGIC)
13 essential PMI libraries:
PIANOS:
- GRANDIOSO BOSENDORFER 290 and GRANDIOSO STEINWAY D,
- POP/ROCK YAMAHA C7 CONCERT PIANO and POST ESTONIA CONCERT GRAND,
- PMI PIANO SUITE: Orchestral Instruments, Steinway D, Prepared Piano,
ORGANS :
THEATER ORGAN* (17 ranks), POSITIF ORGAN* (2 ranks), ITALIAN ORGAN* (5 stops), SOLO ORGAN INSTRUMENTS* (16 stops), ORGAN TUTTI* (14 stops), CONCERTGEBOUW ORGAN* (35 stops) & SIMULATED ORGANS* (26 stops)
HISTORIC INSTRUMENTS
PMI HISTORIC KEYBOARDS: Fortepiano, French & Flemish Harpsichords and a Virginal
MISC:
6 ACCORDIONS (13 stops), CHURCH BELLS & ANVILS, KALIMBA, GUITAR (Steel String), TOY PIANO, DULCIMERS, OCCARINA, HARP, ALTO FLUTE, BASS FLUTE, BASS TROMBONE, Bb CLARINET, CELESTA, CHURCH BELLS, ANVILS, GLOCKENSPIEL, MARIMBA, HARMONIUM and more.
Total value: over $ 995

Both products are available for GigaStudio 2 or 3, Kontakt 1 and 2 and EXS24. You can choose your favorite format.

You can buy one product or both! If you buy both you pay just 50% for the second product.

PMI SUPER Group Buy Rules

Start: June 8, 2005
Duration: 1 month. It ends on July 8, 2005
Terms and conditions.
* to join the Group Buy it is necessary to pay an entry fee of $180.00 USD which is the minimum amount the product will cost you;
* Based on the number of buyers reached at the end of the group buy you may need to make an additional payment (see table below). The final payment will be the difference between the entry fee and the final group buy price. The final price is shown on the table below and depends on the amount of buyers that will take part in the Group Buy;
* By paying the entry fee, you agree to wait until July 9th to receive a link for the final payment. Only after we receive this payment, we will ship the products;
* A shipping fee of $12 will be charged and is added to the entry fee payment;
* Both the entry fee and the final payment constitute a purchase. We will not issue any refunds;
* You can download, install, and try the demo versions of the Old Lady and Emperor (http://www.postpiano.com/tests/Index.htm) before ordering and you can find lots of high quality MP3 audio demos there too.
* Naturally you can buy both products, buy more copies for your musical friends or add more products with a steep discount to your shopping cart while you are ordering;
* If you bring in 5 new buyers to this Group Buy, you pay nothing at all for your Group Buy Bundle; we'll refund your purchase! See details below;
* Personal information is retained. Any and all information you provide is kept for the purpose of handling your order only, it will remain confidential and your information will not be used to send unsolicited mail. Your privacy is respected;
* All transactions in our on-line store are transmitted securely through SSL. Information about the security is available here (http://www.northernsounds.com/forum/showpost.php?p=218758&postcount=25). Payment options include all major credit cards (Visa, Master and AmEx) as well as PayPal.

Here’s how the PMI SUPER Group Buy Works
A Group Buy is a limited-time special offer where many prospective buyers have the opportunity to buy a product in bulk and get steep discounts based on the number of buyers purchasing. As the quantity of purchases goes up the cost of a product goes down. As certain levels of group sizes are reached, the price of the product goes down further - even on all orders that have already been placed. Therefore, products will not be shipped until the final price is determined and the SUPER Group buy has come to an end.

As soon as 80 people join this Super Group Buy you pay just $ 180 for 8 incredible piano libraries that were awarded 5 out of 5 stars by leading music magazines around the world. That is far less than some other some libraries would cost you alone! If you joined the first PMI Group Buy and purchased the Old Lady for $ 80, than this is your chance to get the remaining 7 pianos for just $ 180.

The original price of these products is $450 USD each. See this table to see how the discount will be when the group buy ends with a certain amount of buyers.

http://www.postpiano.com/_images/gb/GBanim2.gif

An example:
Imagine we have reached just 70 buyers on July 8: the discount would still be 50% and the final price (entry fee + final payment) would be $225.00 USD, so the final payment due would be $45.00 USD.
Remember: after 80 people join you pay nothing more than $180.

Click here to join the PMI SUPER Group Buy NOW! (http://www.mijnwinkel.nl/data/v8272/objects/c5/)

EXTRA PMI SUPER Group Buy Benefits :eek:

This time we have more benefits than just the steep 60 % discount :

- all group buyers will receive a PMI Group Buy coupon which gives you an opening-discount of 25% on all products in our new on-line store that is opening this summer. We will release a line of new products this summer and you can get them with an attractive discount this way;

- all first few hundred group buyers will get a free copy of VIRTUAL INSTRUMENTS (http://www.virtualinstrumentsmag.com/)magazine's 1th issue, the new exciting magazine for every musician with a computer (as long as our stock lasts);

- All group buyers get the free LIMITED EDITION disk of the Old Lady and Emperor http://www.postpiano.com/musictech_bestanden/image015.jpg. This disk contains 300 MB versions of these two great pianos (multi-format) that are very efficient sketch-pad pianos (with just a few velocity layers);

- The Referral Refund: Your chance to get these bundles for free. Here is how it works. When you place your Group Buy order you immediately receive an order confirmation from us with your unique order confirmation number. When you convince 5 others to join the PMI Super Group Buy and have them enter your unique order confirmation number in the remarks field of their order form, we will refund your order! You’ll have your order for free! This requires that all referred buyers, complete their transactions.

- You can buy both bundles for a special extra discount: The two bundles together have been added to the Group Buy On-Line order options for just $270. This is based on a final 60% discount, if the final discount percentage is lower an additional payment will remain needed.

- The first PMI Group Buy involved the OLD LADY and EMPEROR piano library and ended with over 750 buyers! Since we did this first group buy on Northern Sounds other group buys have broken this record. So chances are pretty high :D that the maximum discount will be reached and you don’t have to pay any more than $ 180.

Click here to join the PMI SUPER Group Buy NOW! (http://www.mijnwinkel.nl/data/v8272/objects/c5/)

About the PMI SUPER GROUP BUY Products

You can find the full PIANO MAGIC product details and demos on this PIANO MAGIC webpage (http://www.postpiano.com/products/prod_iteminfo.php?id=152&subCat=PIANO+MAGIC)

You can find the full CONSOLIDATED! product details and demos on this CONSOLIDATED! webpage. (http://www.postpiano.com/products/prod_iteminfo.php?id=151&subCat=CONSOLIDATED)

About the libraries:
Pianos:
EMPEROR:
This library brings you an incredible Bösendorfer 290 SE as the most realistic sample library available today. The piano has a huge dynamic range, with very subtle pianissimo and thunderous fortissimi. 12 recorded velocity layers, with 12 separate sustain pedal down layers and release triggered samples.
OLD LADY:
This library brings you an amazing Model 1923 Steinway D grand piano. Sampled with 10 recorded velocity layers with 10 separate sustain pedal down layers and release triggered samples.
The recorded pianos for OLD LADY and EMPEROR were equipped with an advanced computer operated playback mechanism that was designed by mathematician, scientist and inventor Wayne Stahnke. The mechanism actually operates the piano keys and pedals with over 1.000 steps accuracy for inverse hammer velocity. The Stancke computer system enabled Amsterdam based sample library producer Michiel Post to capture each velocity layer for this library with absolute velocity levels. These levels guarantee a totally even response across the whole keyboard for all velocities. The programming of this piano is designed to take full advantage of the possibilities of the new GigaStudio 3 software. This results in more programmed velocity layers. The Emperor has 24 recordings for each key. These recordings were further divided in 64 velocity groups, each a slight variation of the underlying velocity layer sample.
These libraries use a new programming to create the sustain pedal effect. Traditionally, conventional piano libraries use the sustain pedal as an ON-OFF switch, which has to be pressed before a note is played. These libraries lacked the possibility to re-pedal as in a real concert grand piano. Now this barrier has been broken. The PMI EMPEROR & OLD LADY libraries allow the user to press the sustain pedal at any time while playing notes or chords to start the sympathic resonance of the non-struck strings. There is a choice of convolution using the impulse response of the body resonance of the actual piano and a programming technique that adds the recorded resonance as an extra layer. GigaPulse (the convolution engine in GigaStudio 3) is also used for recreation of the original acoustics of the piano hall where the pianos were recorded.
* Special features for GigaStudio 3 and Kontakt 2: Body resonance for reproduction of the true body resonance upon sustain pedal use, Hall resonance, true re-pedalling, sustain pedal triggered pedal noise etc.

Bosendorfer 290
This Bösendorfer library provides the greatest possible control during the softest pianissimo, through crescendos to the reserves of power needed for the loudest fortissimo. By utilizing new technology to optimise the mechanical performance of the action, Post Musical Instruments has created a product which leaves the pianist in total control of dynamic response, timbre and touch. PMI has finally captured a grand piano with "breath". They recorded both dry samples and ambient samples. The dry samples are recorded fairly close to the piano strings. The wet samples are recorded at a distance so that the hall acoustic is captured. You can experience a concert hall type of sound and control the amount of ambience until you play it absolutely dry.
Several Gigabytes of samples, up to 16 recorded layers of velocity, separate sustain pedal up and down samples, multiple release samples... separate "dry" and "wet" samples that can be mixed for ultimate ambience control. 24 bit samples, real-time sustain pedal, increased dynamics, smoother velocity response and GigaPulse body resonance make this library your ultimate sampled piano!
PLEASE NOTE: You will need at least 1 GB of free RAM when playing the GRANDIOSO libraries from a RAM-based soft-sampler platform. When operating the samples on a disk streaming sampler (Giga, Kontakt with DFD, EXS24 with Virtual memory on and HALION) you need 512 MB.

Steinway D
We recorded the best grand piano we could find. This particular instrument is in premium condition, a Steinway model D3 with serial number 393210 which was built in 1965. It was fully refurbished by Steinway Hamburg in 1999. This piano served the Rotterdam 'DOELEN' concert hall for several decades, where hundreds of famous musicians, from Claudio Arrau to the Rolling Stones, performed for live audiences and broadcast concerts.
We captured up to 6 articulations (PPP, PP, P, MF, F, FF and FFF) for sustain pedal up, sustain pedal down and 4 articulations for the release triggered samples. We recorded the samples using the finest digital equipment available. Prism Sound, a 24-bit ProTools TDM Mix+ system and Waves processing was used. We have mapped up to 16 levels of velocity, true multiple velocity release layers, ultimate staccato, and sustained pedal-down samples with a carefully chosen amount of resonance.
The library has 5 GB of samples. The end result was tested by several concert pianists, who helped us develop a sampled instrument which could meet their highest expectations. There is no doubt in our minds that this is the best sampled piano ever.

YAMAHA C7
This Yamaha C7 library provides the greatest possible control during the softest pianissimo, through crescendos to the reserves of power needed for the loudest fortissimo. By utilizing new technology to optimise the mechanical performance of the action, Post Musical Instruments has created a product which leaves the pianist in total control of dynamic response, timbre and touch. PMI has captured the final pop grand piano. We recorded both dry samples and ambient samples. 8 GB of 24 bits samples, up to 16 recorded layers of velocity, separate sustain pedal up and down samples, multiple release samples... and best: dry and wet samples that can be mixed for absolute ambience control.

ESTONIA
Estonia Concert Grand piano is a multi-velocity level chromatically sampled piano of the highest realism! The Grand Piano of ESTONIA has an unique SOUND which comes from the superior spruce timber that grows only in extremely cold areas. The large 9' instrument was sampled with multiple velocity layers and sustain pedal sampled individually. There is even a multiple velocity layer release layer for ultimate realism! The instrument was sampled with 4 layers of velocity (both pedal up and pedal down) also 4 layers of velocity were used to capture the release key action of this piano. The 15 instrument variations give the options of playing the piano with sustained notes only (!), no sustained notes, no release layer, special 'dark' settings etc….All white keys are sampled (55 for each layer).

HISTORIC KEYBOARDS
This dynamic library features Flemish Harpsichord, Frensh Harpsichord, Virginal and Fortepiano. The harpsichords have been sampled so that you can get both manuals separately and combined. You can even use a key switch to change the registration (from upper manual only, to lower manual to both at the same time) while playing. All instruments are captured with their release sounds, giving them an unbelievable realistic quality.

PIANO SUITE
A unique collection of Steinway D Concert grand and other orchestral percussion instruments. The main instrument is a Steinway D Concert Grand (the largest size Steinway makes) sampled with multiple velocity layers and sustain pedal sampled individually.

Organs:
PMI is one of the leading organ sample manufactorers. These collections below are designed to let you play a real church organ with as many stops as you want on your sampler.
Theatre organs
Theatre Organ: The large City Theatre Organ sampled, each rank, each note with natural reverb.
All ranks were chromatically sampled, capturing the true nature and character of each pipe. Samples are 10 to 15 seconds long with perfect loops to enable playing of unlimited length of notes. The true release sound of the organ pipes was also recorded and is reproduced upon key-release.
All programs have 50 multisamples recorded in stereo, with the true release reverberation tail recorded in the theatre. The programs are around 100 MB each, making the total size of these individual stops 1.4 Gigabytes. Disposition: MAIN Prestant, Bourdon, Gamba, Celeste, Viole d'Orchetre, Major Flute, Clarion, Fagot/Clarinet, Soussaphone, Harmonia Aetheria Violon Solo Viola, Diaphason, Bourdon, Tibia, Celesta, Jazztrompet, Krumhorn, Vox Humana.

Church organs
The Post Organ Toolkit is one of the largest and most versatile collections of high quality organ samples ever assembled! There are 111 instrument files (291.4 MB); all perfect sounding, looped, and most in full stereo, divided into folders: Solo Instruments, Tutti & Pleni, Simulations, Italian, and the Concertgebouw Organ By combining several programs simultaneously you can create every possible registration any organ can produce!

Postif Organ
A small Positif Organ with two ranks of pipes was sampled, with incredible detail and attention. Every rank is sampled chromatically, with very long samples and seperate release samples. All combinations were sampled. Recording quality is 24 bit/48kHz.
Organ disposition - Flute 8 - Holpijp 4 - Quint.
The Presets: Flute, Holpijp (Holpijp 4), Flute & Holpijp (combination of Flute8 and Holpijp 4) and Quint Tutti (combination of Flute8, Holpijp4 and Quint).

Misc. Instr. 6 ACCORDIONS (13 stops), CHURCH BELLS & ANVILS, KALIMBA, GUITAR (Steel String), TOY PIANO, DULCIMERS, OCCARINA, HARP, ALTO FLUTE, BASS FLUTE, BASS TROMBONE, Bb CLARINET, CELESTA, CHURCH BELLS, ANVILS, GLOCKENSPIEL, MARIMBA, HARMONIUM and more.

Here is that list of piano specs:
http://www.postpiano.com/_images/gb/specs.jpg

And this how the two bundles now comapre to each other and where the overlap is:

http://www.postpiano.com/_images/gb/overlaps.jpg



We will daily post here reporting the number of actually participating buyers, the current discount and the price.

Therefore you can just follow this thread and place your order when the price is right for you or enter immediately and increase the chances that more people will follow. All first buyers can be certain they get the free copy of the Virtual Instruments Magazine.

If you have any questions please post them here.


COUNTER:

http://www.postpiano.com/_images/gb/current.jpg


Click here to join the PMI SUPER Group Buy NOW! (http://www.mijnwinkel.nl/data/v8272/objects/c5/)




www.postpiano.com (http://www.postpiano.com)



"This is the piano library to beat" – Electronic Musician

" Grandioso Steinway D is definitely one of the best sampled pianos currently available!" ..."a 'must-have' " - Sound On Sound

" Grandioso Bosnedorfer 290 really is a complete joy to play" - Sound On Sound

"PMI's latest releases have given me new faith in the possibility of producing expressive music from a sampled piano." Sound On Sound

"Blows everything else right off the musical map!"

[wes37]

Wow! One question, though; there is mention of Piano Magic and Consolidated and also Piano Magic or Colsolidated. Is it "Either" or "Or"?

[pantonality]

Michiel,

Forgive my ignorance, but when did you sample the Estonia? I've played one (a 190) and fell in love. I crave the real thing, but your library may help ease my hunger. The newer models (built in 2005) have a somewhat richer bass and still have that lovely bell like tone in the treble. I'm just curious if your library is of one of the newer models. I'll probably sign up for this one anyway.

I paid full price for your Bosie 290 and Post Organ Tool, do I get any special dispensation?

Thanks.

Steve Chandler
http://www.audiostreet.net/stevechandler
http://www.soundclick.com/stevechandler

[Bela D Media]

Rock the house Post!

[Joseph Burrell]

Got no choice, I'll have to get in on Consolidated.

wes, if you go to the group buy page you realize its either/or, not both.

[StrangeCat]

oh wow an Estonia Grand!!!! :D
*drool*
:n:
What an incredible Group Buy!!

[janila]

I've seen books shorter than the first post in this thread. This might be the deal after which I can keep my promise to myself about not buying more piano libraries. :D

[wes37]

wes, if you go to the group buy page you realize its either/or, not both.Ah-ha...thanks!

[StrangeCat]

yet another group buy I had to get in on, how can someone pass up an Estonia Grand!!! I am just to weak.... :D

[tgfoo]

WOW! Now that's impressive. Too bad I've got no money though. Oh well...

[Michiel Post]

Wow! One question, though; there is mention of Piano Magic and Consolidated and also Piano Magic or Colsolidated. Is it "Either" or "Or"?
Goog question and sorry that this was not clearer: it should say AND/OR.
You can buy Piano Magic or Consolidated or Piano Magic plus Consolidated.

[Ivan P]

Excellent bundle, Michel!!

But is there any price difference between the two bundles?

If we get both, the price would be double then?


Thks,

Iván

[Michiel Post]

Michiel,Forgive my ignorance, but when did you sample the Estonia? Hi Steve, This Estonia was sampled in 2000. The instrument is the largest model they have. I have not played their latest models but this is a really powerful one that will not disappoint you.

I paid full price for your Bosie 290 and Post Organ Tool, do I get any special dispensation? This is always a problem with special promotions like Group Buys. It hurts to see a discount when you just purchased the product full price. On the other hand, this is an incredible deal, 13 libs for $180 no matter what. If you have a specific request you can send me a private email and we'll see what can be arranged.

[Michiel Post]

If we get both, the price would be double then?
Thks,
IvánCorrect, if you get both bundles you pay $ 360 plus a one time $12 for shipping.

[Ivan P]

Thks Mihiel, sorry I did not edit my last post on time... really fast answers here ;)

I got One last question:

Are the organs full version too? :)

What are the differences between the pianos (say Bosendorfer or C7) in the Magic and Consolidated?

Thks again,

Iván

[fizbin]

What would be the crossgrade price be in this case (K2 > GS3 or GS3 > K2)? I usually try to get both versions if possible.

Thanks,
fizbin

[Michiel Post]

Are the organs full version too? :)
What are the differences between the pianos (say Bosendorfer or C7) in the Magic and Consolidated?Organs are full versions. Bosendorfer is a full version in both bundles. The C7 is a full version (both Close and Ambient recorded perspectives) in Piano Magic and Ambient-only in the Consolidated Bundle. It's all on these product detail pages that are listed in my first (I agree lengthy) post.

[Michiel Post]

What would be the crossgrade price be in this case (K2 > GS3 or GS3 > K2)? I usually try to get both versions if possible.
Thanks,
fizbin
Hi Fizbin,
Cross-grades:
We are currently working on making two versions of each Bundle: One Giga version and one multi-format Kontakt 1+2, EXS24 and Halion version.

The only cross-grade that requires new disks is the any>GS.
K2 imports GS3 disks with some problems but we have free download-able updates on-line that have all Kontakt 2 nki's, nkm's and IR's that can simply be added to the native import that essentially installs the wave pool with some form of nki's. If you prefer disks: the disks are $40.

[janila]

The information about the size of the Piano Magic is rather confusing on the PMI website. First it says 15 GB, then it says 5 GB for Steinway D and 8 GB for Yamaha C7. In the end of the product page it says 4 GB for each piano. Could Michiel or some Piano Magic owner tell the individual sizes of the pianos and the size of the whole thing? I assume that there are separate installers for each piano in the bundle?

[Michiel Post]

Here you go:

PIANO MAGIC

Emperor: 4.3 GB
Old Lady: 3.4 GB
Bos290: 3 GB
Stw D: 4.3 GB
C7: 6 GB
Estonia: 3 GB
PianoSuite: 1.4 GB
Hist Keyb: 1 GB

Total PIANO MAGIC Size: about 26 GB.

The confusion is 16 against 24 bit and a hardly up-to-date website. :o
Previous information was about the 16 bit GigaStudio 2 versions, while everything is 24 bits now.

[yorkio]

Are these going to be shipped from within the EU, or are they coming from the US? (In other words, am I going to be stung for VAT and import duty when they turn up in the UK?)

[Michiel Post]

These bundles are shipped in white enveloppes, not boxes, as personal mail and are marked as commercial sample with a commercial value of € 15.
No duties or import tax.

[Worra]

Wow Michiel!!!!
Considering our release of the Vertikal, I'm glad that you don't have a upright piano in the group buy.....:D
Good luck with this new great group buy!

[Michiel Post]

Hi Worra, Thank you and all the best with this Vertikal, it sounds just great!

[jc5]

Hi Michiel, this is an impressive offer!
I'm already familiar with the pianos (through the demos and frequent discussion here), but I'd like to hear a little more detail about these orchestral instruments that are included in the package. How detailed are these orchestral winds (types of articulations, total size, multipsamples, round robin, etc.)?
And, are they also included in the Grand Piano magic bundle (it says 'orchestral instruments', but does not list them as in the Consolidated package)?
Any demos?

Thanks! :)

[Michiel Post]

Orchestral Instruments is actually a small collection of fine orchestral percussion instruments that comes as part of the Piano Suite, so it's on both bundles.
These orchestral samples are from the orchestra pit of the renowned Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Orchestral Instr. include Celesta, Glockenspiel, Hackbrett, Marimba and Vibes, prepared piano and specific grand piano patches.
Simple Piano is a section with multiple preset choices such as Pianissimo Only, FF Only etc. and an experimental music Prepared Piano for all of you John Cage fans.
Total library size is modest. For example the Celesta and John Cage Prepared piano main patches are just 32 MB each.

A couple of s:o s:o demos are on-line here! (http://www.postpiano.com/products/demos.php?id=50&subCat=Orchestral+Instruments)

The woodwinds and other extras are similar small things; previous freebies or left overs from productions I worked on. Consider them nice extra's. There was an impressive demo with the basstromb on this forum though, I just can;t seem to remember who posted it.

[Michiel Post]

DAY 1 of the PMI SUPER GROUP BUY and we have 8 buyers!
2 more and the discount goes down to 40%.

[metrobot]

would any of those special pianos be considered detuned pianos? I very much would pay $180 for the Estonia and a nice detuned piano. (the kind Tori Amos and others have used in the past on occasion)

[musical.matthew]

Michael, I'm interested but I'm having some trouble deciphering exactly the difference between the bundles. It is clear that there is some overlap, I'm just not sure exactly what. I have Old Lady and Emperor from the last group buy so I'm thinking about the Consolidated bundle. If I go with that and already have Old Lady and Emperor what am I still missing from the Piano Magic Bundle?

Thanks,
Matthew

[RogueM]

from what I understand the C7 close samples (presumably 3Gb vs 6Gb).

btw folks if you go to the group buy order page you will see that you can pretty much cherry pick your extras although I would expect the cheapest would still be to buy both bundles.

[RogueM]

We are currently working on making two versions of each Bundle: One Giga version and one multi-format Kontakt 1+2, EXS24 and Halion version.
does that mean that ordering either Kontakt or EXS will in effect get you both when it ships?

[harmony gardens]

This looks really great! Do people have success running these in V Sampler? If so, which format would you recommend?

[Abel]

Is GS3 version of Consolidated 24 or 16bit?

[tquandt]

btw folks if you go to the group buy order page you will see that you can pretty much cherry pick your extras although I would expect the cheapest would still be to buy both bundles.

I am not sure about this, Rogue: The two bundles overlap quite a bit, so picking additional items might be cheaper. However, there seem to be different versions of some items in the two bundles (ambient vs. classic versions?), so if you want to have everything, getting both might be the safest bet. Did anybody do the exact maths regarding "buying one package + picking individual items" vs. "buying both"?

TQ

[Michiel Post]

Let me help you out with the overlap dilemma:
Pink is PIANO MAGIC, Green the CONSOLIDATED bundle and the overlap is brown.

http://www.postpiano.com/_images/gb/overlaps.jpg



The calculation adds up perfectly:
CONSOLIDATED plus PIANO MAGIC is $ 360.
If you buy Piano Magic + Accordions+Theatre Organs+Organ Toolkit+Positif Organ +Church Bells and Anvils you would pay $358 and would not get the misc extra's (KALIMBA, GUITAR (Steel String), TOY PIANO, DULCIMERS, OCCARINA, HARP, ALTO FLUTE, BASS FLUTE, BASS TROMBONE, Bb CLARINET).

[Michiel Post]

This looks really great! Do people have success running these in V Sampler? If so, which format would you recommend?VSampler imports Giga. Bos290 and Old Lady and Emperor worked really nice. I don't expect problems with the smaller stuff.

[tquandt]

The calculation adds up perfectly:
CONSOLIDATED plus PIANO MAGIC is $ 360.
If you buy Piano Magic + Accordions+Theatre Organs+Organ Toolkit+Positif Organ +Church Bells and Anvils you would pay $358 and would not get the misc extra's (KALIMBA, GUITAR (Steel String), TOY PIANO, DULCIMERS, OCCARINA, HARP, ALTO FLUTE, BASS FLUTE, BASS TROMBONE, Bb CLARINET).

Clever! :)

By the way, I referenced this thread on OSX Audio, so some people might find it more easily:

http://www.osxaudio.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=22731

[musical.matthew]

In short, Consolidated misses the compressed version of Steinway D and the Close version of the C7 (plus the obvious organs, accordions etc).

Is there any way to pick up just these 2 in addition to the Consolidated bundle? If so, how much does that run?

Matthew

[Michiel Post]

We no longer have these disks. But when the group Buy is over contact me and we'll arrange something. By that time we'll have some left-over full version disks that we can offer you.

[Abel]

Michiel, and about the 24bit GS3 Consolidated version?

[Michiel Post]

Is GS3 version of Consolidated 24 or 16bit?
Whatever is available in GS3 format will come in GS3 on Consolidated also.
GS3 is mainly pianos. The organs, historic keyboards and extras are all 16 bit (GS2) format.

[Michiel Post]

Day 2 and we're down to 40% with 13 buyers already!

[RogueM]

can someone give me a hand (literally) to give Michiel 3 thumbs up for his excellent (and consistently so) customer service and product quality control? Looking forward to the upcoming line of products!

Here is my contribution to word of mouth:
http://www.toontrack.com/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl?board=inst;action=display;num=1118354297;s tart=0#0
.

[Theodor]

I'm definetly joining in for Consolidated , the Bosey 290 is worth that much on it's own ! Great

[Utchey]

Can I buy HALion Format?

[Michiel Post]

Can I buy HALion Format?Halion is part of the multi-format disks.
The format can be slected in the order screen:

http://www.postpiano.com/_images/gb/halion

[Perry Diddle]

Here is a HUGE request for those of us who bought the Old lady/Emporer group buy awhile back. It seems the major missing link for we group buyers to get the best collection of PMI instruments is the Yamaha C7 Close instrument missing from Consolidated bundle. That is truly a deal-breaker to me since with that I/we would have a truly spectacular and usable(practical studio use) collection. The close-miked libraries are used 99% of the time by my clients and me. Looking at that overlap chart it seems clear that for those of us that have the OL/E group buy that it is a shame not to have a bundle that perfectly compliments those 2 pianos, and the omission of the C7 close from the Consolidated Bundle is a bummer. Is there ANY way of replacing the ambient C7 with the Close C7 to make the 2 group buys (OL/E from awhile ago and Consolidated now) truly complimentary?

[Michiel Post]

Hi Perry.
I will give this serious consideration over the weekend. I did not realise this before but your point makes sense. I will adjust the CONSOLIDATED package to include the CLose version. MAybe we trade it with the Steinway. Maybe it comes extra. I'll announce this on Monday when I have news.

[musical.matthew]

Hi Perry.
I will give this serious consideration over the weekend. I did not realise this before but your point makes sense. I will adjust the CONSOLIDATED package to include the CLose version. MAybe we trade it with the Steinway. Maybe it comes extra. I'll announce this on Monday when I have news.

Michael, please consider making it an optional extra along with the compressed Steinway D for $20 or something like that. I don't think any of us Old Lady and Emperor group buy members mind paying the extra, but would like the complete collection even if it's just a bit more. I'll be watching for the news on Monday...

Matthew

[Seq]

Hmm... that might be a good way to go... keep the Consolidated configuration as is but offer the missing parts for an additional fee.

Either way this is a great offer. I've been planning on getting the Historic Keyboards collection for a short while now, as well as the bells, so this is one case where I'm happy that I procrastinated!

[Michiel Post]

Today´s counter!

COUNTER:

http://www.postpiano.com/_images/gb/current.jpg

[Michiel Post]

I just decided that it´s best for all when we listen to our customers:
The Consolidated set will contain Close and Ambient versions of the C7, as well as Classic and Compressed versions of the Steinway D.
I´m changing the texts in all websites and on all pages in this forum on Monday.

[Joenco]

Hello,

I might be a group buyer but I have problems finding out what is exactly in each bundle. Is it not possible to make a list with following info of each instrument.

1. Name
2. Bitdepth
3. Variations (classic, close, full, compressed)
4. Size of each variation.
5. Numbers of samples per note.

etc.

Maybe it is just me but I find it very confusing.

Thank you,

[musical.matthew]

I just decided that it´s best for all when we listen to our customers:
The Consolidated set will contain Close and Ambient versions of the C7, as well as Classic and Compressed versions of the Steinway D.
I´m changing the texts in all websites and on all pages in this forum on Monday.

Michael, you rock! It's really great to see this level of service and listening to customers. I have immense respect for that!

Matthew

[Seq]

Ditto what Matthew said. This is absolutely awesome news. Thank you, Michiel!!!

[RodneyR]

Double that ditto and raise you an excellent!:D Thanks from a very happy user of both the Emperor and the Old Lady(as well as some satisfied clients). Now I have to include this irresistible deal in my budget for the coming month(along with building another PC for the studio and other goodies due out). Oh, and while I'm here, thanks for the upgrades for Kontakt2. Very nice.

Rodney

[Sr_Velasco]

Hi Michiel,

What pianos from PIANO MAGIC are in 24bit format? and, are all these pianos converted to Kontakt 2 (I don't like the native Giga converter of Kontakt 2)?

Thank you in advanced.

[tquandt]

Hi Michiel,

What pianos from PIANO MAGIC are in 24bit format? and, are all these pianos converted to Kontakt 2 (I don't like the native Giga converter of Kontakt 2)?

Thank you in advanced.


Have a look at their website - there is a nice table with all the necessary information called 'piano specs':

http://www.postpiano.com/products/prod_iteminfo.php?id=152&subCat=PIANO+MAGIC

[dubaifox]

I just bought Kontakt2 and would likew to jump in on this bundle, but want to be sure that all instruments are in native Kontakt2 format.

It is a little unclear.

At the top of the advertisement Giga is the only listed format, while at the bottom there are several others including Kontakt2.

Someone please confirm I will be able to use these libraries to the fullest with Kontakt2?

Thanks

[Michiel Post]

Here is that list of piano specs:
http://www.postpiano.com/_images/gb/specs.jpg


And this how the two bundles now comapre to each other and where the overlap is:

http://www.postpiano.com/_images/gb/overlaps.jpg

As you can see we changed all versions in all bundles to full versions, avoiding confusion and making the choice easier for everybody.

We added an item in the GroupBuy on-line store: BOTH BUNDLES. If you buy both bundles you pay 50% for the second. Due to the increased overlap between the two, you now pay just $270 instead of 2x $180 when you decide to take both bundles.
Naturally this price is based on the final 60% discount, so if the GroupBuy halts with less than 80 subscriptions the final price would be higher.

[Michiel Post]

Hi Michiel,
What pianos from PIANO MAGIC are in 24bit format? and, are all these pianos converted to Kontakt 2 (I don't like the native Giga converter of Kontakt 2)?
Thank you in advanced.
K2 pianos, that come as K2 library on the PIANO MAGIC and CONSOLIDATED disks are:
Old Lady and EMPEROR, Steinway D, Bosendorfer 290 and C7.
The other libraries will have free down-loadable K2 updates when we have them finished.

The bit depth is shown in the previous posts.

[tquandt]

As you can see we changed all versions in all bundles to full versions, avoiding confusion and making the choice easier for everybody.

We added an item in the GroupBuy on-line store: BOTH BUNDLES. If you buy both bundles you pay 50% for the second. Due to the increased overlap between the two, you now pay just $270 instead of 2x $180 when you decide to take both bundles.


I ordered Consolidated already, however, now I am tempted to add the two other pianos. Will there be an option to do so? (PM you...?)

And: Will the referral refund work with both bundles then, or would I get a -$180 reduction (so resulting in $90 for everything...)?!

[Michiel Post]

If you ordered the Consolidated bundle already you can simply follow the PMI SUPER GroupBuy link (http://www.mijnwinkel.nl/data/v8272/objects/c5/) and select the two pianos you want to add.

[Michiel Post]

And: Will the referral refund work with both bundles then, or would I get a -$180 reduction (so resulting in $90 for everything...)?!The referral refund is your Group Buy order number that the referring customers indicate on their order form. If it's your initial Consolidated order, that is a $180 refund.

[tquandt]

The referral refund is your Group Buy order number that the referring customers indicate on their order form. If it's your initial Consolidated order, that is a $180 refund.

I should have ordered both with my initial order. By the way, when following the Super Group Buy link, I only find the 'full price' for the additional Piano Magic bundle. So stupid me has another question: If I add this and refer to my initial order, will I get the $270 price...?

Oh, another question: The NDB Organ bundle has a full price of $500 and a group buy price of $500. Is the as it is supposed to be...? (I am tempted to add another church organ as well; however, I might go for the Baroque... hm... so many choices... not enough money... the usual problem... :D )

[Michiel Post]

PM me with your order numbers and we'll work it out.

[RogueM]

TQ, with the saving Michiel just threw in the pan order the Baroque organ, it's a stunner. I've just received it and it's the first time I feel 100% happy with an organ library (admittedly I haven't tried the NDB but still).

[tquandt]

Yeah, I am convinced... ;)
Which brings up the question: Why is it that I cannot resist such stuff... :|:

[synergy543]

Hi Michiel,

I feel like a misfit child. I purchased Consolidated, Emperor, and Old Lady and missed ALL the group buys :(
But I love all my PMI instruments :)

Will I be able to get the new instruments you are adding to Consolidated Group Buy as an upgrade?

I like the sound of the Steinway D for example but Consolidated only had the small version of this. How can I get the full version?

Also, what else am I missing and how can I complete my PMI Library and get the K2 updates? Would I be eligible for the Group Buy additional purchases since I already own everything in the group buy? (except Grandioso Steinway D Full).

Gregory D. Moore

[synergy543]

Yeah, I am convinced... ;)
Which brings up the question: Why is it that I cannot resist such stuff... :|:Tquandt,

This is an addiction. :|:

Given the numbers that have been enticed by these "Group Buys", I am considering going into business to offer online therapy.

After all, I have a habit to support too. :D

[the Dairy Giant]

This group buy sounds great, and I think I'll sign up, but I have a couple of questions....

Firstly, I will be using the EXS version, and I understand that due to limitations in this some features aren't there in that version. Can you spell out what they are? I found this text on your web page:

*Notes on formats: HALION and EXS.The programming for these platforms includes the real-time re-pedalling, special release layers and more features. To be able to use the IR-based features you need to route the piano through your own convolution application (Altiverb, PristineSpaces, Waves, SIR or others). The extra noises upon sustain pedal are not supported at this time. EXS: Real time pedalling is not possible in EXS at this moment.

This is a little unclear to me, but it sounds like we get the release layers (I hear this isn't implemented too well in EXS), and If I have Space Designer etc, I can use the the IR-based features, which are mentioned here:

There is a choice of convolution using the impulse response of the body resonance of the actual piano and a programming technique that adds the recorded resonance as an extra layer. GigaPulse (the convolution engine in GigaStudio 3) is also used for recreation of the original acoustics of the piano hall where the pianos were recorded.
* Special features for GigaStudio 3 and Kontakt 2: Body resonance for reproduction of the true body resonance upon sustain pedal use, Hall resonance, true re-pedalling, sustain pedal triggered pedal noise etc.

If you can clarify that I would appreciate it

Secondly, the 2 bosendorfers, are they pretty much the same piano, but the Emperor version has more samples etc so is more realistic?

Thirdly, the shipping cost, is that regardless of destination? (ie New Zealand, it doesnt get much further away than that!) it sounds like they are posted rather than using a courier like FedEx or whoever, is there any hassle if stuff gets lost in the mail if that is the case?

Thanks!!!

[Michiel Post]

I will be using the EXS version, and I understand that due to limitations in this some features aren't there in that version. Can you spell out what they are?
EXS does not have a built-in convolution engine that I can use for enhanced body resonance for the pedal down samples. The work around would be to build an instrument that sends it's pedal down samples to a second output and insert Space Designer with a body resonance IR following the behavior of the pedal. When it goes down, the IR becomes active and as soon as you release the pedal the Space Designer output is choked. I have not found this route easy and (important) transportable to other Logic systems, since not all have SD.
The release layer implementation in EXS24 is really poor. This is mainly because the release samples are triggered with velocity based on the attack velocity of the preceding note on command and lack decent ADSR settings. The latest Logic update added some attack settings, but again this only works for those who have updated to the most recent version. The other samplers all have some form of "if-note-is-played-3 seconds-make-release sample-softer" logic. Logic does not. So all release samples are always loud, regardless how long the preceding note-on lasted. Finally real-time pedaling is poorly implemented. Most samplers allow a gentle cross-fade between two layers controlled by a controller (let's take CC#64, sustain pedal) to add the sustain resonance instead of pressing the sustain pedal before you play a note. If you do this in EXS24 you get the digital 0 or 1 scenario; in other words there is a sudden switch from one sample into the other, resulting in a unnatural change of sound.

Regarding the two Bosendorfers. They are totally different beasts. First off, the recording conditions were different, which reflects heavily in the sound impression. Grandioso Bosendorfer 290 is recorded in a small hall, making it a real "orchestral" piano. It has two recorded microphone positions (Close or DRY and Ambient or WET). Even the Dry version has considerable hall characteristics. For a dryer than dry in-your-face pop piano sound this does not work in all situations. The EMPEROR is recorded in a much more controlled environment resulting in a dryer sound. This works a lot better when doing pop productions. Second they were different pianos. Just like the difference between twins can be stunning, so is the different character of these two pianos, although both the same piano model. I find it hard to describe (maybe some of the NS forum users that have both can help me out) but you would have to base judgment on the demos we have on our website.
This page (http://www.postpiano.com/products/demo2.htm) gives you a nice comparison for the major pianos. EMPEROR and Bosendorfer290 have similar or the same dynamic ranges, tuning etc but their tone is different.

Shipping costs are fixed for the group buy. $ 12 is for any destination in the world. If you are insecure about the normal priority shipment (e.g.have experienced lost packages, long delivery time) we offer Fedex Next day shipment for $45 which is track-able and very secure.

[Michiel Post]

Hi Michiel,

I feel like a misfit child. I purchased Consolidated, Emperor, and Old Lady and missed ALL the group buys :(
But I love all my PMI instruments :)

Will I be able to get the new instruments you are adding to Consolidated Group Buy as an upgrade?

I like the sound of the Steinway D for example but Consolidated only had the small version of this. How can I get the full version?

Also, what else am I missing and how can I complete my PMI Library and get the K2 updates? Would I be eligible for the Group Buy additional purchases since I already own everything in the group buy? (except Grandioso Steinway D Full).

Gregory D. Moore
Hi Gregory,
I'm tossing with the idea of starting a software license program for our products. Like all major software companies offer some form of upgrade support I would love to offer this in samples too.
Being a musician has become like being a software license manager in some ways. You use Giga and Kontakt. You have to notice Kontakt and Giga updating their software and decide if you want to update. Next you have to notice if updates for your sample libraries are available and upgrade them too if they offer new options that are important for you. This detracts from making music and often is costly too.

My idea is that you pay an annual fee and then automatically get all upgrades for your licensed sample libraries as soon as they are available without additional costs.
Same story with cross grades. If you notify us that you are switching form platform A to B we make you an offer for the best way to cross grade.

The problem at this point is that I haven't worked out how to organize this at this point. It requires me to make a calculation to see how much to charge for such a service, based on the costs of the development and production costs.
So, this does not solve your current situation at this moment. Send me a PM and we'll discuss your situation in more detail to bring an immediate solution closer. After all it does not make sense for you to participate in the group buy just to get the latest versions of stuff you already purchased.

To answer your specific questions: you miss some of the extra's plus half of the Steinway D and C7 samples.
The K2 updates are available on-line as free updates on our website. Visit the update page for the details. (http://www.postpiano.com/support/listUpdates.php)

[the Dairy Giant]

Thanks for the EXS answers... not sure what to think now... :confused:

[benst]

Hi,

I already have the Emperor and the Old Lady from the previous group buy, so I went and ordered the Consolidated to complete the set. Very happy, can't wait to receive it.

I am thinking of buying a new sampler, and need some advice. I currently run Logic Pro 7.1 on a dual G5 2 GHZ, and use EXS24 for these sample libraries. I'm very interested in the new capabilities that these sample libraries have with re-pedalling and resonance, which are obviously not supported on the EXS sampler. And then there are all the other shortcomings as Michiel pointed out a few messages earlier.

So what do people here think is the best solution for these kind of libraries? Halion (-Player?), Kontakt? Wait for Logic 8 and see if EXS improves? I believe Halion is VST only? Tech support for Kontakt is a bit slow (still waiting for an update for GPO to pass AU validation, for example).

Thanks,
Ben

[Michiel Post]

Going great! Down to 50% already...a few more days and we're reaching the maximum discount!

[tquandt]

Hi,


I am thinking of buying a new sampler, and need some advice. I currently run Logic Pro 7.1 on a dual G5 2 GHZ, and use EXS24 for these sample libraries. I'm very interested in the new capabilities that these sample libraries have with re-pedalling and resonance, which are obviously not supported on the EXS sampler. And then there are all the other shortcomings as Michiel pointed out a few messages earlier.

So what do people here think is the best solution for these kind of libraries? Halion (-Player?), Kontakt? Wait for Logic 8 and see if EXS improves? I believe Halion is VST only? Tech support for Kontakt is a bit slow (still waiting for an update for GPO to pass AU validation, for example).


There's no question. Kontakt 2 is the best, and right now, it is way ahead of the competition. The script language alone is worth the money, and you get convolution, advanced sample management and much more. Oh, and you get a huge and usable library with it as well (read: 15 GB!).

Halion does not help you very much in your situation, because it does not offer the advanced features that are in cluded in the PMI libraries. Scripting is limited to Kontakt 2 only right now. And I think Halion is VST, so I wouldn't bother even thinking about it when using Logic.

About tech support for Kontakt: GPO isn't Kontakt, it's a special player version (a Kompakt player, I think); the updates for these special instruments seem to be slower sometimes; I guess NI starts to update their flagships first. However, when you own Kontakt, you can *directly* load your GPO instruments in Kontakt (which is not possible with other samplers, because the NI based sample libraries have some kind of copy protection).

[SimuAndy]

However, when you own Kontakt, you can *directly* load your GPO instruments in Kontakt (which is not possible with other samplers, because the NI based sample libraries have some kind of copy protection).

I have kontakt (full), and I can load the "copy protected" sample libraries that I use with no problem.

The instrument has to be authorized once through NI's web site. I haven't received GPO studio yet, but I would be surprised if it didn't need an authorization, either.

This authorization is one of the ways that NI knows how much $$ to collect from its licensees for their products. (Search on AES and "Native Instruments" in google, sometime.)

[tquandt]

I have kontakt (full), and I can load the "copy protected" sample libraries that I use with no problem.

Yes, that's what I tried to say: You can load the NI Kompakt based libraries in Kontakt (I can do that with my Storm Drum, RA, Hardcore Bass, Bosendorfer, Symphonic Orchestra Gold, and I guess it is true for all other NI based libraries as well).

However, you will not be able to transfer or load the files into another sampler like EXS or Halion (and even the 'translator' programs like Chickensys Translator or CDXtract do not work with these files). From what I have read, the NI Kompakt players are using some kind of encryption that can only be read by the player itself and Kontakt.

[synergy543]

My idea is that you pay an annual fee and then automatically get all upgrades for your licensed sample libraries as soon as they are available without additional costs.I hope software companies don't all start charging annual fees. Particularly in the case of sample licenses for which many musicians are already stretching their credit cards beyond balance of their income to be able to use.

What would seem a fair plan for all would be that samples are offered for a nominal low cost and that if they are used in a commercial production that makes money, a portion of the royalties would be shared with the sample developer. One developer saw a show where his samples were used almost exclusively for the production of a multi-million dollar Las Vegas show, yet it cost the production no more than what an aspiring hobbyist would pay.

Of course monitoring this would be more of a task for ASCAP or BMI. In the meantime, a flat useage fee seems to be the best compromise between the various options.

[Michiel Post]

For this reason we try to keep our prices as low as possible already :D Group Buys help a lot also.
The proposed annual fee is optional, just in case you want the premium service of receiving all future updates without the hassle of keeping track when they are available.

I feel that the instrument (and library developer) shouldn´t share in royalties of productions in which they are used. Most of our customers use our samples for commercial work and would hate to see this happen since it would be a deep (sometimes very deep) cut in their budget. After all "normal" instruments never have such an agreement.

I am open to discuss other models for making updates available with fair revenues and a minimum of trouble.

[the Dairy Giant]

Michiel, its the EXS guy here again!

So now I'm a bit confused, If I only have EXS, is it still a good idea to buy your pianos? How much do you think they miss out on being played in EXS as opposed to through Giga/Kontakt? I know for loud rocky stuff it probably won't matter, but I would like a piano that could take some up-front exposure in quiet, reflective music.

I suppose this puts your pinaos in the same position as any other libraries available in EXS format, they will all have the same limitations?...

The only other thing for me to do would be to get Ivory which has that stuff built in, but it's a lot more money than this group buy, and it doesn't have some of the nice things like the estonia and the other goodies in this package. I could always buy Kontakt, but I don't have the dollars at the moment...

Does anyone else have any opinion on how these pianos sound in EXS???

thanks!

[Michiel Post]

What we call the inverse power of technological progress. Kontakt 2 is out and way ahead of competitors in this field (piano) with it´s scripts.
Next month/year EXS32/LogicX comes out and brings newer features. You are always running behind the latest releases...

I wouldn´t care too much about these fluctuations in features between the different platforms. If you are happy with your current sampler them you can step in new platforms if you have some budget left. If you don´t you don´t miss too much... That´s easy for me to say since I use them all :)
What I mean is the basic functionality of all sampler is simply said amazing compared to when GigaSampler entered the market. We made some major steps forwards since. EXS24 does not support some rather essential features but still is a great sampler. It´s rock solid. That is very important for me. If you run Logic without too many exotic other software you will agree that EXS24 is highly unlikely to crash your system. Giga and K2 can have some unwanted system halts or freezes. They both have CPU intensive processes under the hood that can go wrong. (Murphy #1) When CPU load becomes too high, you can lose valuable time and work.
Now as far as re-pedalling and sympathetic resonance goes, even with the basic functionality EXS24 still sound very good. Sympathetic resonance is noticable but it´s only when you play some exposed solo lines while holding keys down to hear the generated effect you really notice the difference.
I made these two clips:
Chopin Prelude No 4 Symp Res (http://www.postpiano.com/products/demos/test/Convolution/Chopin%20Prelude%20No%204%20%20Symp%20Res.mp3)

Chopin Prelude No 4 No Symp Res (http://www.postpiano.com/products/demos/test/Convolution/Chopin%20Prelude%20No%204%20No%20Symp%20Res.mp3)
The one without Sympathetic Resonance is EXS24, the other is Kontakt 2.

Another thing to notice is that using two different samplers (from different brands) side by side on the same machine is asking for trouble. Imagine what happens when Kontakt 2 and EXS24 both want to stream samples from the hard drive.


Anyway, the disks we are making for this Group Buy (Piano Magic and pianos in Consolidated) will all have Kontakt 1 +2, EXS24 and HAlion files. They are mixed, multi-format disks. So you don´t have to cross grade when you decide to switch samplers.

Hope this makes it easier for you.

[harmony gardens]

That's a good demonstration of the difference Michiel. I will have to use V Sampler for the time being, but I want to get Kontakt 2 at some point. It sounds like getting the Kontakt version would be the way to go, if someone can confirm that the Emperor and the Old Lady will run fine with V Sampler in Kontakt, or Halion formats.

[the Dairy Giant]

Thanks Michiel, i'll have a good listen when I get home from work tonight.

Can you tell me the other differences, I presume the Kontakt vesion has the nice release samples that its programming allows for, does the EXS have no release samples, or the release samples that are always loud as you mentioned earlier?

Any other differences between the 2 in these recordings??

Thanks again.

[swayzak]

hi

I'm a little confused (admittedly after a few glasses of wine).

I have both GS3 (on a separate PC) and Kontakt 2 (on main DAW).

I'm very tempted by Consolidated (I already have Old Lady and Emperor from the last GB).

Am I best to get the GS2/3 version and then import them into K 2 ?

Or get the K2 version ?

cheers

swayzak

[Joenco]

Hello,

Will shipping start as soon as the lowest prize has been reached or do we have to wait till the end of the group buy?

Thank you,

[NothanUmber]

It sounds like getting the Kontakt version would be the way to go, if someone can confirm that the Emperor and the Old Lady will run fine with V Sampler in Kontakt, or Halion formats.

I used the GS2 version (of both Old Lady and the Emperor) which imported quite fine but I wasn't able to get full dynamics out of VSampler (compared to what I get out of the Kontakt 2 demo)
I changed both the volume and velocity sensitity settings at the "VolPitch" page and volume and velocity at the MIDI page - what improved things a little but didn't produce the expected results either. But I'm no VSampler guru, just use it for sample playback and only do minor adjustments so perhaps there is a way to further improve this... (regarding the kontakt format: lately I also bought some downloadable pianos - this time in kontakt format as I also think about changing. The lack of dynamics is the same as with the giga version but in addition you will have to reassign the pedal controller values to the pedal up and pedal down groups as that information seems to get lost in the kontakt import process.)

Greetings,
NothanUmber

[the Dairy Giant]

Well Michiel, I listened to both those files several time at work through crappy earphones, crappy little speakers, and my nice speakers here at home, without knowing which one I was listen to, and I really couldn't pick which was which... They are really not the same?

I don't know which section of the music would highlight this feature, but I couldn't pick it up.

They both sounded lovely to me. If they sound this good in EXS I think I'll be in.

Which piano was it by the way?, I'm guessing the Old Lady...

[Michiel Post]

I have both GS3 (on a separate PC) and Kontakt 2 (on main DAW). Am I best to get the GS2/3 version and then import them into K 2 ? Or get the K2 version ?

I found the native Kontakt 2 import utility not optimal for conversion of GigaStudio 3 files. In your case I would take the Gs3 version and use the "export all sample foldersl" function in GigaEdit to get the individual wavefiles organised in folders. Once you have the wavepool available to Kontakt 2, all you need are the Kontakt2 update files that you can download from my website. They contain the IR's, K2 nki's and the resonance stuff you will need to load them correctly in K2. Naturally if you prefer to have a clean set of disks for each sampler you can buy the cross grade disks to the second sampler format ($40) in our on-line store.

[Michiel Post]

Well Michiel, I listened to both those files several time at work through crappy earphones, crappy little speakers, and my nice speakers here at home, without knowing which one I was listen to, and I really couldn't pick which was which... They are really not the same?
I don't know which section of the music would highlight this feature, but I couldn't pick it up.
They both sounded lovely to me. If they sound this good in EXS I think I'll be in. Which piano was it by the way?, I'm guessing the Old Lady...

Here you go, I told you progress isn't always what it seems! This piece has almost no benefit from the additional K2 programming. Other pieces can expose the difference very clearly.
The main ingredient for a convincing piano sound is the basic sample. If this is a superior, well designed library the extra options are merely the extra flavor.
The piano was Old Lady...

[the Dairy Giant]

Well I'm glad I didn't say I could really hear the difference then!!!

Do you have any examples of music where it is really noticeable, even if you can point me to one on your demos page...

Also were there release samples on the EXS version?

[Michiel Post]

Day 9, we have 70 buyers!

Just a few more and we're reaching the final 60% discount!!!

[Sr_Velasco]

I am the 71. :D

Cheers!

[Michiel Post]

Do you have any examples of music where it is really noticeable, even if you can point me to one on your demos page...?

I made this page for this purpose:
Sympathetic Resonance demo (http://www.postpiano.com/products/psr/srdemo.htm)



Also were there release samples on the EXS versionEXS version has release samples but they are rather loud and not responsive to how long the note was held.

[swayzak]

I am very tempted by this GB.

However I played around with Old Lady tonight in GS3 and I get a very noticable distortion on the D an octave above middle C.

I don't get this sort of thing in Giga Piano II or in Vintaudio's C7.

I know something has been mentioned about this before....is there a fix yet ?

Incidently, RME have recently released a driver update which seems to fully support the GSIF 2 low latency midi - loving it !

swayzak

[Michiel Post]

Hi, The distortion in some OL presets has been fixed a long time ago.
We keep an update database at our website where these fixes can be downloaded. Have a look at this page. (http://www.postpiano.com/support/listUpdates.php) The new disks for this GB are all themost current versions (no updates needed).

[Michiel Post]

Day 10 and we reached the final 60% discount.

[Abel]

Day 10 and we reached the final 60% discount.

Does it mean that you'll start shipping? :D

[Brian2112]

Day 10 and we reached the final 60% discount.

Congratulations Mr. Post!:D



I could not live without my Emperor and Old Lady!:n:

…2112:)

[the Dairy Giant]

Thanks for posting that sympathetic resonance stuff, quite interesting trying to follow exactly what was going on there. What's 'grail'? unrelated to 'the Da Vinci Code'???!!!

Were those examples ephasised more than normal, or is that how it sounds on a good grand piano? (I have a very decrepit old upright piano, on which its very hard to hear the effect of playing certain notes while holding a higher chord, and depressing the sustain pedal like on your examples).

[freeccm]

I have HALION 3 right now and I think about buying KONTAKT 2 'cause of symphthetic resonance.. If I buy Halion Version, is it including Kontakt version??

[Michiel Post]

Does it mean that you'll start shipping? :DNo, we have to wait for several reasons. We have to wait for all the disk from duplication and we want to have the Virtual Instruments Magazines in-house.
But it doesn mean you don't have to pay any additional payments for the froup buy products!

[Michiel Post]

Thanks for posting that sympathetic resonance stuff, quite interesting trying to follow exactly what was going on there. What's 'grail'? unrelated to 'the Da Vinci Code'???!!!

Were those examples ephasised more than normal, or is that how it sounds on a good grand piano? (I have a very decrepit old upright piano, on which its very hard to hear the effect of playing certain notes while holding a higher chord, and depressing the sustain pedal like on your examples).
The Grail program is as good as the Da Vinci Code :) It's is a special add-on for K2, adding a standard release sample, normalized sustain samples and several noises (hammer falls back, sustain pedal is pressed) all in one nki slot with a script/GUI to control the individual volume of each of these components. We will include this on all the piano multi-format disks. I think the scripting option in Kontakt 2 will be followed by other samplers soon, and this add-on may useful when the other samplers support scripting also. We include it for K2 but will adapt it to work with Halion, EXS24 or Giga when they implement scripting too. I used "Holy Grail" for this as a working title but since there is a Holy Grail piano on the market already we will use a suitable new name when we supply this as a separate product. Maybe Da Vince Code is alright then!

Naturally the demos on that page are a little over the top to expose what is happening. "Normal" pianos don't exist! Every piano has different noises and responds in it's own idiosyncratic way. Our script allows you to add noises and effects to taste. The microphone position during a recording is also very important as it determins exactly how much of the extra noises is picked up and become audible. A close miked piano has much more squeaks than when ambient recording perspective is used.

[Michiel Post]

I have HALION 3 right now and I think about buying KONTAKT 2 'cause of symphthetic resonance.. If I buy Halion Version, is it including Kontakt version??

Yes, the multi-format disks contain the wave-pool plus all the Kontakt 1, Kontakt 2, Halion and EXS24 files.
There are two main sample formats: the one that uses a consolidated monolith file (like GigaStudio, SoundFonts and Refills) and the ones with the wavelool as individual files and the instrument definition files for samplers such as Kontakt, Halion, EXS24 and several others.

And we also keep a large database of update files on-line on our website. (http://www.postpiano.com/support/listUpdates.php) You can download the latest patches for all samplers there. The Kontakt 2 patches include the IR samples and programs that you need to run the pianos in Kontakt 2.

[Abel]

And we also keep a large database of update files on-line on our website. (http://www.postpiano.com/support/listUpdates.php) You can download the latest patches for all samplers there.

will these changes/patches be included in Consolidated gb bundle, or do we have to apply them for every instrument after install.

[Michiel Post]

Both Consolidated and PianoMagic have the latest updated versions on disk.
The updates in our database are not needed for normal operation when you get the new disks. The update database is continuously updated so you may find new updates that add special features or solve bugs in the near future.

[Samplecraze]

Michael

If this has been dealt with in this post already, then pls forgive me, but I wan't in a 10 page read mood.

I am based in the UK. I would very much like to get in on this offer and was wondering how the pricing and delivery are structured for us?

Do I pay as per normal through your site and simply plug in my UK details, or is there a special overseas buying page that I have missed in my over eagerness to purchase the sets?

Thnx for your time.
I know this can get very boring for you, having to answer the same qs.

[Michiel Post]

No problem. The order and payment procedure is the same for all countries. You pay in US dollars but your credit card or PayPal account will convert that in your own currency.
We ship in the same (white private enveloppes) world-wide.

[Samplecraze]

Thank you.

And I wish you every success with this and future products.

[PaPa Chalk]

Live counter!






http://www.postpiano.com/_images/gb/current.jpg


Day 10 and we reached the final 60% discount.

Excellent Michiel !:D Another final discount reached in a short period of time.
Still some days left congrats!!!:)

[RogueM]

There are two main sample formats: the one that uses a consolidated monolith file (like GigaStudio, SoundFonts and Refills) and the ones with the wavelool as individual files and the instrument definition files for samplers such as Kontakt, Halion, EXS24 and several others.does this mean I can crossgrade my existing PMI pianos from one of the wav based sampler to another (excluding GS2/3) simply by downloading the latest instrument definition for said sampler?

[SimuAndy]

Were those examples ephasised more than normal, or is that how it sounds on a good grand piano? (I have a very decrepit old upright piano, on which its very hard to hear the effect of playing certain notes while holding a higher chord, and depressing the sustain pedal like on your examples).

I actually ran this kind of experiment today.

I sat down at a $60,000 Bechstein 6-foot grand piano, and a Knabe 7-foot grand piano in a recital hall here in St Louis missouri. First I got used to both instruments for about an hour, playing a mix of classical, pop, church, and "just made up" stuff. (As an aside, the Bechstein was "darker", the Knabe "brighter", and the style of tune you play on these definitely changes to match the instrument.)

Held the sustain pedal down, played some notes and listened for the harmonics to start to resound on other notes. It worked.

I held down the harmonics of A-220 (A3, E4, A4, C#5, E5, and A5) in various combinations, played soft & hard on A2, and darned if the other strnigs didn't start playing.

I always knew something like this happened -- the whole piano resonates under my fingertips whenever I play in my typical pedal-down style, but I had never actually DONE the experiment.

[the Dairy Giant]

That is interesting.

And I wonder why you don't see too many other brands of pianos sampled. That's one of the reasons I like this group buy, having the Estonia in there adds some extra interest.

Someonae at another forum I frequent doesn't like Steinways (he gets to play real ones it seems). He said his favourite piano was (I think) a Schimmel, and mentioned that they are doing some innovative things with soundboard design or somesuch thing (I myself know nothing about any of this).

I guess its harder to market a sample library of lesser known brands, or is it just that Steinway, Bosendorfer and Yamaha simply the best of their respective styles?

[the Dairy Giant]

I just did a search for schimmel pianos and found something that looked like a spaceship. Now that is innovative... Not sure if I'd buy one, aassuming I'd ever have that kind of money to spend on a piano..

[chambermusic]

Sorry if this question has been asked.....

Could you tell me what format these samples are in? I purchased a previous sample library from Post music and found that I had to unzip (actually unstuff, I believe) the sound samples. I have not yet been able to get them to work with Gigastudio, but I'll admit, I have not yet made any inquires as to what I should do. (honestly, I have a hard time finding the time.)

It may be easy and straight forwads for some of you to unstuff sample libraries for Gigastudio use. For me, any additional complications like this end up being huge roadblacks and therefore deterents.

I am considering purchasing on this group buy. It sounds like a great deal. But if the formats are not easy-to-load .gig samples, then I think I'll pass.

Can you tell me what the format is?

David

[Michiel Post]

I purchased a previous sample library from Post music and found that I had to unzip (actually unstuff, I believe) the sound samples. I have not yet been able to get them to work with Gigastudio, but I'll admit, I have not yet made any inquires as to what I should do. (honestly, I have a hard time finding the time.)
It may be easy and straight forwads for some of you to unstuff sample libraries for Gigastudio use. For me, any additional complications like this end up being huge roadblacks and therefore deterents.
David

Hi David,
I understand that dealing with datacompression is an extra step that can be a roadblock if you are not used to installing software and unpacking data.
However, since only 4.7 GB fits on a single DVD and the larger piano samples are over 4.8 GB we need to find convenient ways to deliver the gig files to our users. One solution is the use of self extracting installers. This packs the gig file(s) in a self extracting archive. This means you end up with a file (that is named ANY-NAME.exe) and that you simply double-click on the file to have it installed on your PC. This works for Giga without too much problems. The other way is to split files over several disks. This is also a bit of a hassle.

Problems get a lot worse when you make samples available for dual platforms (PC and MAC), for example to deliver Kontakt/EXS24 and Halion files. There was a time (when Apple did not secretly code Mac OSX to be compatible with Intel x86 processing) when you could unstuff our packed exe-files on Mac's too. Since the introduction of OSX 10.1 this no longer works, since Intel-compatible coding is probably deliberately disabled or something :( For these cross-platform data files we are now unfortunately forced to use a compression technique that requires a separate unpack program to be installed on a computer. If you have Giga you don't need this.

But naturally we accommodate all our users. If you have problems unpacking the files to your system because of the installation procedure, please write an email to our company info@postmusicalinstrumentsDOTcom. Replace DOT by a "." without the " "marks. Or send me your phone number and we'll talk you through the installation process. We can also burn the files on a special dual-layer DVD for you that can hold 8 GB of data and should make installation a simple drag and drop the content of the DVD to your hard drive. Hope this will soon solve your problem with your current PMI product(s).

And to answer your question: all Giga files on the Consolidated bundle are unpacked (they are gig files only) except all GigaStudio 3 pianos which use the self extracting exe file as explained above.
If you have trouble with installation we will gladly talk you through the installation process or send dual layer installation media.

[Michiel Post]

does this mean I can crossgrade my existing PMI pianos from one of the wav based sampler to another (excluding GS2/3) simply by downloading the latest instrument definition for said sampler?
Correct! If you can't find them in our database we will make them available to you through email and upload them to the database as well.

[RogueM]

thanks. that's useful info. It means I can now focus on Consolidated or put that money towards Kontakt 2. Either way I'll be spending some more in PMI's shop before the end of this group buy.

regarding compression I feel for you (imagine shipping 35Gb crossplatform libs and you'll see how much I can relate to that). Generally speaking I'm against compression for the following reason:

a drag and drop of files takes (me) about 15 minutes per 4Gb. the same compressed takes me about 2/3 times that (copying first before uncompressing, trying from the DVD is obviously madness).

I have the bad habit to unload libraries from my hard drives from time to time when I start consolidating projects to audio for archiving and moving to Pro Tools and I agree with the fact that compressed is a nuisance. I think on the other hand that splitting gig files across media is probably more hassle however.

Anyway I guess more importantly I feel better about knowing it would not be a long job to do that if I wanted to unload temporarily my PMIs although space is becoming short (time for a new hard drive).

This is just my perspective of course and others may disagree but I wanted to say that as a customer I'd be happy paying more for a 2-media set containing the wavs files rather than the one that takes 2/3 times the install time.

Coming back to Consolidated I'm guessing none of the libs are compressed or are they (for 'wavs' users specifically)? It's not a huge issue but I'm getting as much info as I can. Is the following correct:

- bos290 3Gb => 1DVD
- steinway d 7Gb => 2DVDs (1 dry + 1 wet)
- Yam C7 7Gb => 2DVDs (1 close + 1 ambient)
- estonia/piano suite 4Gb => 1DVD
- everything else ? 1/2DVDs?

sorry to be specific I'm just trying to estimate the best course of action in my situation.

Rogue

[Michiel Post]

The current disk situation is:

Piano Magic
Giga:
Emperor: 1 DVD with Giga2 and Giga3 versions (Giga3 is an installer)
Old Lady: idem
Bosendorfer: idem
Steiway D: 1 DVD with two installers (one for each Giga version)
Yamaha C: idem
Estonia: 1 DVD uncompressed
rest: uncompressed

Multiformat:
Emperor: 1 DVD with compressed multi-platform file
Old Lady: 2 DVD with uncompressed files
Bosendorfer: idem
Steinway: 1 DVD with compressed file
Yamaha: 1 DVD with compressed file.

CONSOLDIATED

The pianos as above, all the rest are DVD's with uncompressed files.

[Michiel Post]

I have the bad habit to unload libraries from my hard drives from time to time when I start consolidating projects to audio for archiving and moving to Pro Tools and I agree with the fact that compressed is a nuisance. I think on the other hand that splitting gig files across media is probably more hassle however.
Rogue
Hi,
New drive would do wonders. Beside that copying your whole sample collection to the new drive is a matter of an hour or so, you would always have the latest and tweaked versions instead of ending up with the out-of-the-box fresh installed patches that often need some fine-tuning.

[AndrewW]

Michael,
How many gigs of data is there in all those librarys on the Group Buy? I'm thinking of getting another Hard drive for these. Also, when will you start shipping? or did you already?

Thanks for the GB!!!
I already got Old Lady and it is the best sounding piano I got. I plan to get a new DAW soon, cause my current one is just not enough. So in a month or 2 I'll be jamming with PMI pianos!!!

[SteveHanlon]

Can't seem to get past the screen right before check out. I click 'Next' but I just keep getting a blank screen.

Mac using Safari.

Any suggestions?

[Martin Nadeau]

Can't seem to get past the screen right before check out. I click 'Next' but I just keep getting a blank screen.

Mac using Safari.

Any suggestions?

I'm also getting the exact same problem using Safari and OmniWeb on the Mac. I've written directly to Michiel about it, we'll see this week if he has a solution.

[Garritan]

Congratulations Michiel! Another successful group buy. The best may be yet to come.

Gary Garritan

[johnamriding]

I don't have the PMI Group Buy so can't comment. However Safari (in Mac OS X.2) has many things which don't register (much better in OSX.3 by the way).

Have you tried the trusty (?) Internet Explorer instead? I find that whereas Safari "blocks" out the Flash presentation (for example) IE works just fine.

[Michiel Post]

Can't seem to get past the screen right before check out. I click 'Next' but I just keep getting a blank screen.

Mac using Safari.

Any suggestions?

This problem is related to the way the SSL layer works in the payment system. For security reasons there is a hidden frame (secure server) that is blocked by Safari and some other browsers. Microsoft Explorer works fine though.
I just placed an order in our store with MicroSoft InternetExplorer 5.2 for Mac and ordered without problems. Internet Explorer is installed on any Mac by default (due to a gentlemens agreement and exchange of a bucked full of cash between Steve and Bill) and can be found in the applications folder.

[tquandt]

I just placed an order in our store with MicroSoft InternetExplorer 5.2 for Mac and ordered without problems.

Wow, you like your stuff THAT much? You even buy it yourself? (Does this mean that you have to pay yourself for buying it...??!) :D :|:

[tquandt]

By the way: The group buy counter doesn't change since a weak or so. Time for an update.. ;)

[SteveHanlon]

Explorer worked fine. Thanks.

[undertone]

Id like to receive this group buy package at a different address than my billing address.

Is this possible? The purchase form asks for a single address.

Thanks,

u

[moops]

Hi - A quick question - I've had a look on the Post Piano site and may have missed the answer...

Are there 2 different versions of the Giga disks, one for V2.5 and one for V3, or are both sample sets on the same physical disks (I'm presuming they are different sets, V2 in 16-bit and V3 in 24-bit)? The reason for asking is that I haven't yet upgraded to Giga 3 due to the requirements for XP (and I can't face the upgrade!) but will at some point, and I'm wanting to future-proof the sample libraries I'm buying at the moment whilst still being able to use them with my current config - Any help gratefully received!

[Michiel Post]

Id like to receive this group buy package at a different address than my billing address. Is this possible? The purchase form asks for a single address. Thanks,
uSure.
You can make a note in the remarks field with the shipping address. Or send an email reply to the the same address that was used in the order confirmation.

[Michiel Post]

By the way: The group buy counter doesn't change since a weak or so. Time for an update.. ;)
Coming in a minute.

[Michiel Post]

Not much activity the last few days. Everybody left for holyday, enjoying th sun?

[Michiel Post]

Are there 2 different versions of the Giga disks, one for V2.5 and one for V3, or are both sample sets on the same physical disks (I'm presuming they are different sets, V2 in 16-bit and V3 in 24-bit)?
The Giga disks have both formats: the 16 bit Giga2 and the 24 bit Giga3 versions. We packed the disks full, using an installer for the largest files.
So, when you get the Giga disk you can use it in Giga2 and all compatibel programs and in Giga3 using the advanced features of Giga3.

[AndrewW]

Michael,
So when does the shipment begin?
I'm anxtious to get my hands on these librarys!!!

[moops]

Fantastic! That's great news. And many thanks for the super-fast reply Michiel - My credit card just ran across the room on its own and started ordering by itself! :D

All the best
Paul

[RogueM]

regarding checkout with Safari just click in the window background after each step and the browser will display the correct information.

[chambermusic]

Sounds good,

I made my order today.

David

[Michiel Post]

So when does the shipment begin?
I'm anxtious to get my hands on these librarys!!!We will ship next week. We hope we get the copies of Virtual Magazine in time. All the rest in no problem.

[tquandt]

Hm... still working on that refund thing. However, OSX Audio is offline... bad luck, I guess, but if they are online before the end of the group buy, I will remind the other members of this group buy again. Not just because of the refund thing - no, because it's an awesome deal... ;)

[seclusion]

Hey Mike, I've sent you an email after ordering for the group buy...
After my transaction I was forwarded to an webpage that was in another language. So dumb me ordered it again before checking my email.
Is it possible to delete one of the orders?? I just need one order please.
Thanks for your time.
I'm looking forward to the piano's I've heard so much about.
Brian

[Michiel Post]

NO PROBLEM. one order will be cancelled and refunded.

[seclusion]

Holy crap buddy, that was quick..
Thanks soo much...
New computer system for GS3 is ordered as well, hope to have it running in time to load your stuff.
I feel like a kid walking through the toy section!!!
Later

[pantonality]

Hi Michiel,

Will these be all new media? By that I mean the recent upgrades to the Old Lady. I don't mind loading an articulation file, but replacing samples makes me nervous. Frankly, I don't know how to do it. So if the version sold in this group buy has all the recent upgrades and replaced samples that would be helpful. Plus I'd get a 24 bit Bosie 290 and the Emporer and the Estonia. OK I'm psyched. Just tell me all the corrections and fixes are included and I'll bite.

Steve Chandler
http://www.audiostreet.net/stevechandler
http://www.soundclick.com/stevechandler

[Michiel Post]

All the disks in both PIANO MAGIC and CONSOLIDATED are newly created master disks with the latest versions and all current updates and patches have been added. The "multi" version also includes all the Kontakt 1 and 2, Halion and EXS24 patches with a joined wavepool so you can load them on any non-giga sampler. The Giga version has both 16 bit GigaStudio 2 and 24 bit GigaStudio 3 files on the same disk so you can load them on both versions of GigaStudio or import the Giga2 version in one of the less known giga-compatible samplers.

[Martin Nadeau]

Hi Michiel,

Could you please let me know if you have received my second email (I got your reply to my first one) about replacing the Historic Keyboards library? You don't need to send me a lengthy email reply as I'm sure you're quite busy, but just a little yes or no here so I know that everything is okay.

Thanks, and many thanks also for making available such a great group buy opportunity for all of us.

[Michiel Post]

done, check your email.

[Garritan]

Not much activity the last few days. Everybody left for holyday, enjoying th sun?



Michiel,

It is a holiday weekend here in the states and in Canada too. As you probably know,with Group Buys the most activity takes place in the last few days. Once the drinking and wild partying wears off they'll realize what a great deal this is and get in on the group buy. http://www.northernsounds.com/forum/images/smilies/smile.gif All the Best!

[zquarles]

Michiel-
I'm running low on funds currently (damn credit cards), but I should be getting a check on Thursday...expect at least one more order (plus several more, I'm guessing) towards the end of next week!!
What an incredible deal!!
:-)
-z

[XlrCable]

I went to purchase, but the page that wants my credit card information is not secure?! Tried with both Firefox and IE6. Was I in the wrong place?

[Michiel Post]

The on-line store is one of the safest you can find.
Please check the security info here (http://www.northernsounds.com/forum/showpost.php?p=218758&postcount=25) as we indicate in our first post.

[SimuAndy]

Are we there yet? :)

[Michiel Post]

I just heard we'll have our copies of the (Magnifico) Virtual Instruments Magazine by the end of this week. We'll ship as soon as we receive those.

[Laurent]

Hi Michiel,

I'm starting using K2 instead of GS3, but I still hesitate between the 2 versions of your pianos :

Did you get better result (means more realism) using K2 convolution engine compare to GS3 gigapulse ?
Thank's

[Michiel Post]

For the most realistic results as far as piano sampling is involved I recommend Kontakt 2 software over anything else.
The convolution engine in K2 is functional (not as great as GigaPulse) but for piano use, where I only assign some pedal down convolution it's just as good.
GigaPulse is great for multiple mic positioning and exact control over each position in reverberation applications. This is not the basic function that I use for piano.

The Kontakt K2 Scripting engine is a 1000% improvement over Giga's iMidi rules. You have Kronel, Xavier and Olivier here on this forum who have all created scripts that enable real sympathetic resonance from the non-struck strings. This alone is worth the Kontakt software price. Then we have scripts that add hammer sounds, release triggered sounds, real sustain, soft pedal, sostenuto pedal etc.
For this moment Kontakt 2 is the way to go for piano sampling.

[theiss2003]

Dear Michiel,
I've ordered my copy of the magic bundle today (via PayPal).

As I have to do the payment transaction manually at my bank now (which will take several more days to proceed the payment) - my question is:

Will I be still in time before the group buy ends ?
Does the time of my order count, or the time you receive the payment ?

Thanks,
Seb

[Sr_Velasco]

Then we have scripts that add hammer sounds, release triggered sounds, real sustain, soft pedal, sostenuto pedal etc.

Hi Michiel,

All those scripts you have talked about are included in the package or we will have to download from some web site just like Kornel script.

Thank you in advanced.

Alex

[ryounger]

Hey Michiel.

I just ordered the piano majic library by accident, I meant to order the consolidated library. Could this be changed or is it too late. I sent you an email with my information. Thanks

Russ

[Michiel Post]

Dear Michiel,
I've ordered my copy of the magic bundle today (via PayPal).

As I have to do the payment transaction manually at my bank now (which will take several more days to proceed the payment) - my question is:

Will I be still in time before the group buy ends ?
Does the time of my order count, or the time you receive the payment ?

Thanks,
Seb
No worries, we´ll cancel the first order (the one before the Paypal order) and will ship your Paypal order as soon as the payment is received.

[Michiel Post]

Hey Michiel.

I just ordered the piano majic library by accident, I meant to order the consolidated library. Could this be changed or is it too late. I sent you an email with my information. Thanks

RussHi Russ,
We will change it to Consolidated.

[Michiel Post]

Hi Michiel,
All those scripts you have talked about are included in the package or we will have to download from some web site just like Kornel script.
Thank you in advanced.
Alex

Some scripts are included, some are downloads from our or other websites.
We will upload an instruction in our update section., like the ones from Kornel. He keeps the latests updates available from his website. We will simply provide the link to this download location.

[Kermit Jagger]

Well, the difference between buying just one or buying both being $90 only, I had to go for both :D

Can't wait playing with my new toys !

Thanks for such a great offer.

[metrobot]

Whew! I just made it. Found the right link and got this amazing price.

Thanks!

[theiss2003]

No worries, we´ll cancel the first order (the one before the Paypal order) and will ship your Paypal order as soon as the payment is received.

Hi Michiel,
wow - thanks dude - now I can sleep way better ;-)

Can't wait to get my hands on this great collection ! :-)

[Ceasefire]

So it ends today! Hope everyone made it in time ... I did ;)

[clonewar]

I'm in! Are there any differences between the Mac and PC versions? When I received my order confirmation it said 'OS: MAC', and I use PC.

Michiel, I sent you an email about this, but if there isn't different versions of the libraries for the different platforms then of course it doesn't matter.

Thanks,
Michael

[Beethree]

It's an epidemic!!!!
I either inadvertanly checked United Kingdom instead of United States, or the ordering software defaulted to it, but I also sent you an e-mail, Michael.

[zquarles]

Damn!

Looks like my bank won't be clearing a paycheck until next Tuesday, so I guess I'm hosed out of the group buy.

:(

[Sr_Velasco]

Hi Michiel,

Kornel Mezo is working in a Pro version of his Piano Sympathetic Resonance script which will include new features and a more accurate performance than the free versions. At the moment it will only be available for the Audiolivepro Nice Steinway library. The question is: PMI will be interested in the pro version of Kornel's script for your piano libraries?

Thank you in advanced.

[Seq]

When all is said and done it would be interesting to see a final tally. I hope everyone who wanted to made it in.

Zquarles... did you try sending a private email to PMI just to see if maybe they can still "sneak" you in on Tuesday? Might be worth it.

[the Dairy Giant]

Looks like I just snuck in, even though it's the 9th here in New Zealand.

I looked at the first page of this thread a couple of days ago, and it said '5 days to go'. thought I'd wait a few more days, not realising that what I'd been looking at wasn't current...

Anyway, my order got accepted, and TQ from OSXaudio, if you are hanging around here, I mentioned you in the order, but couldn't give your reference number due to OSXaudio being AWOL for the last while, hopefully that will work for you.

Looking forward to getting my pianos!!!

[tquandt]

Anyway, my order got accepted, and TQ from OSXaudio, if you are hanging around here, I mentioned you in the order, but couldn't give your reference number due to OSXaudio being AWOL for the last while, hopefully that will work for you.


Thanks a lot! ;) (I guess it's you, Applepie, correct?)

And: Yes, I am hanging around here, since OSX Audio is temporarily unavailable... :( Well, at least there is Northernsounds and KVR, which helps to ease my pain a bit... :D

[Michiel Post]

Final Counter!


http://www.postpiano.com/_images/gb/current.jpg

[Michiel Post]

I want to thank everybody who participated in this group buy. This result is great and I hope all 138 buyers will be happy customers.

Orders are shipping and everybody should get their order in the next week or 2.

Since this topic will be closed soon, feel free to start a new one about the group buy products when you have further questions.

[tquandt]

Michiel, one last question regarding the referral refund: Where do we get the information whether we 'made it' or not...? (I *think* there were at least five OSX Audio members that said they were referring to me, but I am not sure... anyway, THANK YOU guys, if you are reading this. You are great! :) )

[Seq]

Thank YOU, Michiel! I look forward to having a lot of fun with these libraries. Also looking forward to great new things ahead!!!

[the Dairy Giant]

I guess it's you, Applepie, correct?

yup, thats me!!!

[tquandt]

yup, thats me!!!

I hope the Pianos will add even more quality to your songs! I've got some of your songs in my iTunes playlist, and they're brilliant... :-) (Are you working on a 'commercial' release of these songs...? I think there is a lot of potential in your stuff! :o )

[Michiel Post]

Michiel, one last question regarding the referral refund: Where do we get the information whether we 'made it' or not...? (I *think* there were at least five OSX Audio members that said they were referring to me, but I am not sure... anyway, THANK YOU guys, if you are reading this. You are great! :) )You get the refund! Check your credit card statement in the next few days.

[tquandt]

You get the refund! Check your credit card statement in the next few days.

WOW! Very big THANK YOU to everybody who helped me with this and to Michiel for the fantastic offer...

[Beethree]

Michiel,
Sorry to hound you about this, but I've emailed you about an incorrect address on my group buy order. I used the generic Post address, so perhaps it wasn't sent to your attention. But anyway, I'm just being persistant because I know you're shipping soon and I want to make sure I've gotten the correct info through.
Thanks,
Phil Aiken

[bebop603]

Hi Michiel,


I'm really looking foward to getting the PMI bundle. Do you have a favorite set of headphones that you could recommend for your pianos? I've currently got an Echo Indigo sound card and Sennheiser 580 phones.

Thanks,
Greg

[kanker]

Arrgghhh! Got home tonight after being out of town for the better part of the last week and found the group buy closed! Well, enjoy you lucky devils.

[benst]

Hi,

I have just received the Consolidated, and am having a little problem with the Estonia. When loading Estonia Final in EXS24 (in Logic Pro 7.1), I am getting tons of multiple matches for the sample files. Then it offers me to choose but obviously I don't know which one to pick. For example, it asks for a4.wav to choose from directory "Rel F" or "SF" (in the Estonia directory). A0.wav exists in "Rel F", FF and Sf... If I go ahead and choose the top one, I get some problems with certain notes.

I also tried relinking with EXS Manager 2.8 Demo, but then I get clicks on the start of some notes.

Any idea how to fix this?

Thanks,
Ben

[vic_france]

Just received, and installed, the Piano Magic bundle today...
These pianos are absolutely superb... can't stop playing them! Bravo, Michael, and thank you :)
(and still Virtual Grand and Malmsjö to arrive from Art Vista.. I'm gonna be "all pianoed out"! :D )

[fozzy]

Vic, Once the "Piano bug" bites that's it. There is no cure. http://www.northernsounds.com/forum/images/smilies/wink.gif


Just received, and installed, the Piano Magic bundle today...
These pianos are absolutely superb... can't stop playing them! Bravo, Michael, and thank you http://www.northernsounds.com/forum/images/smilies/smile.gif
(and still Virtual Grand and Malmsjö to arrive from Art Vista.. I'm gonna be "all pianoed out"! http://www.northernsounds.com/forum/images/smilies/biggrin.gif )

[tquandt]

Stupid questions, but here they are: Are the contents of the 'extra' folders the same for all instruments? And: Where should they be located on the HD?
Is there a 'best way' to organize all these Pianos? What kind of directory structure do the Kontakt programs expect (so that they do not ask for the samples all the time...)?

Well, many questions, but I guess somebody might be able to answer them (at least Michiel... :) )

[vic_france]

Vic, Once the "Piano bug" bites that's it. There is no cure. http://www.northernsounds.com/forum/images/smilies/wink.gif
Well, I did try putting on a pair of boxing gloves before starting to play...apparently that didn't alter the listeners' experience one iota! :D
I must confess it's already a few years since I had a real piano at home, and until recently (although quite usable for basic piano tasks), it would never have occurred to me to load up a sampled piano and play it for the sheer pleasure! :)

[Seq]

Consolidated arrived today, yay!!! Just finished installing it and playing around a bit. Awesome!!!

But I'm also a little confused... I was really looking forward to trying some of the MISC instruments such as Kalimba, Guitar, Toy Piano, Dulcimer, Ocarina, Harp, etc. and the flutes. Which is one of the reasons I went for Consolidated.

I'm not seeing those files on any of the installer disks though. For those who ordered Consolidated, what am I missing? I have one disk labelled "Consolidated Disk 1". Was there supposed to be another disk 2?

Michiel, should I email you a list of all the disks that were included in my package? Or, post it here? There were six disks all together.

Maybe a Consolidated purchaser could post a list of names of all the included disks?

Thanks!

[Johnny_FX]

Ditto on that seq, thats the reason I ordered both. Hmmm so it's not just me hehe. I can't find them either.

[Michiel Post]

Stupid questions, but here they are: Are the contents of the 'extra' folders the same for all instruments? And: Where should they be located on the HD?
Is there a 'best way' to organize all these Pianos? What kind of directory structure do the Kontakt programs expect (so that they do not ask for the samples all the time...)?
The Extra folder is identical on all disks. In GigaStudio/Halion and EXS there are no restrictions where to place the extra folder. You can avoid double content on your disk by placing the Extra folder on the same folder level as the folders for each piano.(see below)
In Kontakt you need the IR-samples folder inside each SAMPLES folder (as on the disk). The extra folder can be on the root level, it contains samples that are useful when replacing the convolution samples.

Organisation of this collection would look like this:
Root:
-PMI BUNDLES

--Piano 1


---Samples

--Piano 2
etc

--Extra

But you are free to do it different. :)

[Michiel Post]

I was really looking forward to trying some of the MISC instruments such as Kalimba, Guitar, Toy Piano, Dulcimer, Ocarina, Harp, etc. and the flutes.
I'm not seeing those files on any of the installer disks though.

Correct, the EXTRAS folder (opposed to the Extra folder with all the IR-samples and pedal noises) is only on the Giga disk. This should have been on all the EXS/HAL/Kont CONSOLIDATED Disk 1 disks as well. :eek:

All buyers affected by this omission will get a private email from me where to download these instruments or how to obtain them on CD.

[tquandt]

Wow, I haven't even noticed that I am missing these as well. I was so busy installing the rest of the stuff... :D

It's a bit unfortunate that I just realize this now - I guess you have already sent me the Emperor and Old Lady Disks that I was missing...? (You could have put the Extras stuff in there, too...)

Ah well, sh** happens! ;)

[Azaniah]

Michiel,

Am I correct in saying that I should end up with 1 GPulse Directory?

Also the content of the "EXTRA" directory isn't needed if I am using GS3?

Thanks Steve

[bebop603]

Anyone have Kontakt patches for dark versions of Old Lady or Emperor like that supplied with the Bos 290?


Thanks

[Michiel Post]

Michiel,
Am I correct in saying that I should end up with 1 GPulse Directory?
Also the content of the "EXTRA" directory isn't needed if I am using GS3?
Thanks Steve
Yes, one GigaPulse directory will work. You need to point GigaPulse to this folder so it can add this folder as GigaPulse content folder.
The extra directory has some interesting samples that you can use when experimenting with convolution and extra piano noises (pedal, key etc). I would keep them on your drive, just in case.

[Azaniah]

Thanks Michiel, I read the extra content to be IR / EXS stuff.

I'll have a check when I get in tonight.

[Abel]

I have just got my GS3 Consolidated bundle and I find, that there are some programs missing, that are mentioned in the manual.

here's a (rather extensive) list of missing names:

in Bosendorfer 290:

Dry B290 8 basic
Dry B290 8-layer no release
Dry B290 8-layer long release
Dry B290 8-layer LP Filter
Wet B290 8-layer + release
Wet B290 5-layer + release
Wet B290 16-layer
Wet B290 16-layer Low Pass Filter


in Post Theatre Organs:

Gamba
Viole d'Orchestre
Violon


in Post Accordions:

Paolo Italy
Hohner musette


in Post Harpsichords:

French Harpsichord nr 1
French Harpsichord more release
Lute
Lute short
Lute "thin" & short

missing all Flemish Double-manual gigs

Virginaal soft release
Virginaal muted
Virginaal loud release
Virginaal FX sounds
Virginaal 8+4
Special Harpsichord instr
FX harps

[tquandt]

Could somebody point me to the 'Anvils'? While I found the Church Bells, there do not seem to be any Anvils in there (as I expected from the description). Anywhere else, or are they missing as well (they are not included in the additional download, are they?).

Another question: I found that the C7 Close has some seriously distorted samples (Kontakt 2). Really, they seem to be 'wrong'. The ambient version is working perfectly, but Close is problematic. Anybody else?

[Abel]

Could somebody point me to the 'Anvils'?
Check your DVD named "Consolidated".

HTH

[Ceasefire]

I noticed the distorted C7 as well (kontakt 2 user) ... is there a patch for this I don't know about?

[tquandt]

Check your DVD named "Consolidated".

HTH

I did... But there are just the Church Bells (it's the Kontakt-CD, called 'Consolidated 1'). Maybe they are hidden somewhere?! Is it a problem with the missing files on the Kontakt-CD as well?

[synergy543]

Could somebody point me to the 'Anvils'? While I found the Church Bells, there do not seem to be any Anvils in there (as I expected from the description). Anywhere else, or are they missing as well (they are not included in the additional download, are they?).
Mine are located in a directory called Extra. Here is the hierarchy:

Extra>kontakt>Anvils1>Default Sample Group (contains 38 anvil samples)

I'm not sure which DVD this came from but I ordered Consolidated before the Group Buy and was missing a DVD so Michiel kindly sent me one. It could have been on the missing DVD. In anycase, try doing a search of your drive for the above keywords.

[tquandt]

Mine are located in a directory called Extra. Here is the hierarchy:

Extra>kontakt>Anvils1>Default Sample Group (contains 38 anvil samples)

I'm not sure which DVD this came from but I ordered Consolidated before the Group Buy and was missing a DVD so Michiel kindly sent me one. It could have been on the missing DVD. In anycase, try doing a search of your drive for the above keywords.

O.k., I think the 'Extra' directory is the one missing from the Kontakt DVD. There was a problem with this DVD, but Michiel already did contact me regarding this problem. I will have a look at the replacement files I got from him (did not unzip them so far, so probably the anvils are in there...). Thanks for you help!

[Michiel Post]

Anvils can be found in the same secured "bjork" directory I mentioned in the private email that was send to all Group Buy customers.
It's only missing on Kontakt disks.

[Abel]

Michiel, and regarding missing instruments, that I listed in post #200 ?

[benst]

Michiel,

I'm still having the problems with the Estonia I described in post #186. Can you please have a look?

I've completely removed the library a couple of times and reinstalled, tried with and without EXS manager, but no improvement.

Thanks,
Ben

[Michiel Post]

I have just got my GS3 Consolidated bundle and I find, that there are some programs missing, that are mentioned in the manual.

here's a (rather extensive) list of missing names:

The manual isn´t too accurate, it was created back in the old GS2 days. Some of these programs were duplicates.

[Michiel Post]

Hi,

I have just received the Consolidated, and am having a little problem with the Estonia. When loading Estonia Final in EXS24 (in Logic Pro 7.1), Ben

Hi This is a little complex. All the samples are there but the references are all mixed up.
I´m looking into this to find the best solution.
Stay tuned.

[Abel]

The manual isn´t too accurate, it was created back in the old GS2 days. Some of these programs were duplicates.
So, I'd very much appreciate posting the updated names' list with their valid description. I'd rather know e.g. which programs in Bos290 have all 16 layers, which have release samples and what possibly MAPLE might mean.
As it is now, I feel blind as to the contents of each program.

Also, there is only one Virginaal program in PMI historic keyboards, so do you mean that all these mentioned in the manual were just duplicates:
Virginaal soft release
Virginaal muted
Virginaal loud release
Virginaal FX sounds
Virginaal 8+4

Many thanks for your excellent and friendly support :)

[Michiel Post]

Also, there is only one Virginaal program in PMI historic keyboards, so do you mean that all these mentioned in the manual were just duplicates:
Virginaal soft release
Virginaal muted
Virginaal loud release
Virginaal FX sounds
Virginaal 8+4

Many thanks for your excellent and friendly support :)
The manual is something I hoped to write and include in the final disks but never made it...What we have as manual now is mainly a small update on the old instrument notes. With some inaccurate parts.
The Virginal disk for Gs2 had a few more programs that had small variations in the settings of the release samples, there was one sound that used a fast decay and low sustain setting to emulate a Lute stop, and there were some rather bad variations with octaves and long release/attack settings. All things you can easily do in QuickEdit and I found them inferior so left them out of the Historic Keyboard collection. After all the instrument has only one setting!

[chmara]

I have been experiencing what I had hoped were unique problems with my superbuy installations -- but see I am not the only one so far.

I had ordered my materials for Kontakt to run on my IMac G5.

So far I have some sounds that actually refuse to let the samples even copy off the disc onto my drive -- others where (marimba) the NKI and the samples will not relate to each other -- even though the files are installed and have checked out individually in the same manner as Klockenspiel, for instance.

A number of promised sounds are missing -- and I could only download Giga files from the e mails----and I need NKIs with samples for things like the kalimba, ocarina, etc. which the reasons I purchased the package. (The accordinas -- the other reason seem to be OK at this point.) I had to completly reinstall my Anvils from a previously purchased disk....and reindex my drives.

One of the organ samples (tutti/Orgenbouw) not only will not be moved or copied- but will bring down Kontakt 2 if you try to enter that way ---- using the NKI that will open it.

Honestly -- if I had know the technical side was going to be this much trouble I would not have purchased the package. I am becoming extremely unhappy that what were supposed to be professionally done, usable discs are not complete, and technically are not able to produce what was represented.

I generally do not mind down loaded patches for a thing or two -- like system interface issues -- but whole chunks of information, samples and materials that were supposed to be in a particular fomat are missing.

I do not like to complain in public -- but I see I am not the only person with issues about the package ---

I would definately like an updated CD sent to me or complete new set of discs to repair these problems ....or a refund for returning the package with a warrant that I will remove those portions that are working and not use them in my work.

I know we all have bad periods and production problems-- and I also know it is the speed, accuracy and courtesy extended to the customer with the solutions that can make or break a relationship with that customer.

I am dissapointed -- and await solutions.

[Michiel Post]

Hi Chmara

We are working hard to solve the problems that occur in the GroupBuy disks.
First of all, our apologies for the inconvenience this is causing to you and all others involved.
You can rest assured that we will solve all issues and send replacement disks to all users who are affected by this.

Let me answer some of your questions:

A number of promised sounds are missing -- and I could only download Giga files from the e mails----and I need NKIs with samples for things like the kalimba, ocarina, etc. which the reasons I purchased the package. (The accordinas -- the other reason seem to be OK at this point.) I had to completly reinstall my Anvils from a previously purchased disk....and reindex my drives. As stated the missing content can be downloaded from our website following the link in a private email you received. If you prefer to get the content on disk, just let us know and we're sending it in the next weeks. The "extras" instruments are all single velocity instruments that translate from giga to any format without problems. All samplers have Giga-import and this works fine with such uncomplicated instrument files. But if you prefer to get the extras in the sampler format you are working in, that is ok. Just tell us when you ask for a CD; all versions will be on the CD.


One of the organ samples (tutti/Orgenbouw) not only will not be moved or copied- but will bring down Kontakt 2 if you try to enter that way ---- using the NKI that will open it.This cannot be replicated here. Could it be a problem with the disk (dust or scratches)? If data cannot be copied from DVD to the internal drive there are two possibilities: the disk is damaged or dirty or the DVD-reader is using an older BIOS. Updating the driver can solve the problems. Cleaning a DVD can also help. If you continue to have this problem, we simply replace the disk with a new one.


Honestly -- if I had know the technical side was going to be this much trouble I would not have purchased the package. I am becoming extremely unhappy that what were supposed to be professionally done, usable disks are not complete, and technically are not able to produce what was represented.If we had known that some issues were problematic we would never send out these disks. Believe me. But rest assured we'll do what we can do solve the problems as soon as possible.

I generally do not mind down loaded patches for a thing or two -- like system interface issues -- but whole chunks of information, samples and materials that were supposed to be in a particular format are missing.We have the CD-ROM with all extras that we will send you when you request one.

I would definately like an updated CD sent to me or complete new set of disks to repair these problems ....or a refund for returning the package with a warrant that I will remove those portions that are working and not use them in my work.We will send new disks if that is the solution. See next post also.


I know we all have bad periods and production problems-- and I also know it is the speed, accuracy and courtesy extended to the customer with the solutions that can make or break a relationship with that customer.We are fully aware of the problems and are solving them as we speak. And again we are sorry for the inconvenience we have caused.


I am dissapointed -- and await solutions.Hopefully our solutions will help you out soon.

[Michiel Post]

There seem to be several problems with the disks that were just shipped for the PMI Super Group Buy.
Before we can solve the issues we are trying to get the complete picture and we depend on your feedback.
All disks were newly created last month and it turns out that some specific instruments have severe or minor problems.
Below is a list of currently known issues that we will keep updating until all issues are solved. Please report any unknown issues to PMI Technical Support (info@postmusicalinstruments.com) so we can solve them in the next week(s) and send you updated disks asap.

http://www.postpiano.com/_images/gb/problems.jpg

[Michiel Post]

I have been experiencing what I had hoped were unique problems with my superbuy installations
Hi Gregory,
I understand from your messages that you moved the samples to another drive, away from the nki-files.


-----Original Message-----
I usually keep the wav/sample files (nks) on an external disc and the instrument files (nki) on my main drive (IMAc G-5/250 gig internal) and am not sure how to interpret the Gold (thank you for the extra) use of translating the gig files. Should these gig reside on the external drive, and then have the translated file saved back to that drive -- and then the gig file erased?
Or do I need to maintain the gig file forever.

First of all it is not such a great idea to separate the nki and nkm-files from the samples. These files need to stay in connection (with their folder structure being an important clue how to load the samples). If you put nki or nkm files on one drive and the samples on another, Kontakt will have real problems finding the samples. Normally Kontakt searches for samples in the directory that was set by the developer. You can change the way AutoSearch works but usually it will find some samples (if they are in a specific folder) and miss the rest that are in other folders. In such cases you end up with a partially loaded instrument. The samples that were not found in the directory you specified are simply ignored. Autosearch allows you to set a directory but it does not tell K2 how the structure in the subdirectories is. So suppose you have several folders that all contain samples with indentical file
names. K2 will never be able to connect the right sample to the region it was connected with.
This method is actually asking for trouble.

If you import a Giga file, Kontakt creates wavefiles in a temp directory and an nki file for the instrument when you save the imported Kontakt instrument. You must save the nki file, (preferably as “nki + Samples”, on a location of your choice. After this moment you can safely remove all gig files from your system. There is no further usage for them.

[tquandt]

There seem to be several problems with the disks that were just shipped for the PMI Super Group Buy.
Before we can solve the issues we are trying to get the complete picture and we depend on your feedback.


Hi Michiel,

here's another one: There is a problem with the C7 Close in the Kontakt version - quite a few of the samples seem to be heavily distorted.

By the way, I received my two additional disks today. Thanks a lot!

TQ

[Sr_Velasco]

Hi everyone,

On the DVDs I found hundreds of superfluous files that I suppose I can delete without problems. These files are:

Thumbs.db
.DS_Store
*.gpk
*.nov
._*.*

Am I right?

I know these files have a low size but the hard drive I use for storing my samples are formated at 64K cluster size, so a file of 1K becomes to a 64K one on my disk.

And I got a final question. After extracting all files from Emperor, I found a folder called Steinway Samples into the Full Emperor Samples folder. Is this Steinway folder in the right place?

I didn't check the Yamaha C7 library but at least two users found distorted samples on it. I will check it out soon (if I got time).

Thanks in advanced.

Cheers,

Alex

[chmara]

Michiel -

Thank you for the details. I have converted the .gig files and they seem to be operating.

Marimba and Harmonioum are still not working and the tutti problem remains. Have not gotten into the pianos -- but I await the discs AFTER the problems are shaken out,

I appreciate your honest reply and see that you were as caught by surprise as were we who use the products......

Gregg Chmara

[Sr_Velasco]

Hi,

I got problems with these 2 patches from The Emperor in Kontakt 2:

K2 EMP SUS RESONANCE.nki
K2 Pedal only.nki

All the samples are loaded but I don't get any sound. The settings are OK in Kontakt 2, in fact, before I had loaded these 2 patches I played another ones without problems.

Where is the problem, please?

Thank you in advanced.

[Sr_Velasco]

Please, has nobody tested these two patches?

[vic_france]

Both these presets are intended to be used as part of a Multi, containing also one of the normal "pedal up" presets. In any case, you'll be able to hear these two presets simply by pressing down the sustain pedal:)

[Sr_Velasco]

Ok. Thank you vic france. I guess I was recently awaked when I checked these patches :D

[timby]

Just got these discs myself from the Group Buy, and had quite a hellish evening attempting to install everything. Ugh.

Wish I'd found this thread sooner so I'd have known what I was up against.

In the 'problem chart' it lists the problems with the Estonia EXS version, but lists the solution as 'correct use of EXS manager". Um... could you be a little more specific? That really isn't all that helpful. I've used the EXS manager on the library several times, and it still comes up sounding like all the velocities are out of whack. Can somebody explain what the 'correct' use of EXS manager is??????

I think it'd be great if PMI could afford to hire somebody just to handle the 'installer' part of their software libraries. This has NOT been a fun experience, and I don't really have this kind of time to waste.

But hey, it was a great deal right? Sort of? http://www.northernsounds.com/forum/images/icons/icon6.gif

[Joenco]

Hello,

I installed Piano Super Group Buy.
I have now 33 GB samples in my PMI directory.

As I'm a kontakt users I suppose I can delete some things like gig files and exs etc.

I'm glad with the bundle but I also would have prefered kontakt only files on the installation DVD.

Can I delete everything which is not kontakt?

Thank you,

[Seq]

You'll probably want to KEEP everything which is Kontakt, no? I pretty much have the same question as you. Judging by some of the names of the files... I thought maybe there are some that might need to be converted.

Obviously the extra instrument gig files needed to be converted.

Also, you might have duplicates of the "Extras" folder that contains the IR samples, etc.



Hello,

I installed Piano Super Group Buy.
I have now 33 GB samples in my PMI directory.

As I'm a kontakt users I suppose I can delete some things like gig files and exs etc.

I'm glad with the bundle but I also would have prefered kontakt only files on the installation DVD.

Can I delete everything which is kontakt?

Thank you,

[Joenco]

Just edited my post.
Of course I ment deleting NOT kontakt stuff.

Greetings,

[Abel]

I have a problem with Bandoleon.gig from Consolidated.
I work in GS3 at 48kHz and when I load this program it plays at wrong speed (transposed up) instead of being src'ed. Other accordions (also 44.1 files) play just fine though. Any help please?

[Abel]

any news ?

[maszat]

I think Michiel is on 2 weeks vacation now.

[musical.matthew]

I think Michiel is on 2 weeks vacation now.

Maybe that's why he hasn't responded to my email about not receiving my group buy shipment yet. Are there others who have not yet received their shipments?

[the Dairy Giant]

In the 'problem chart' it lists the problems with the Estonia EXS version, but lists the solution as 'correct use of EXS manager". Um... could you be a little more specific? That really isn't all that helpful. I've used the EXS manager on the library several times, and it still comes up sounding like all the velocities are out of whack. Can somebody explain what the 'correct' use of EXS manager is??????

Same problems here, I sent off an email with all the problems I have found, but haven't heard anything.

At least there are several usable pianos there for me, even if some of them aren't...

Just to cheer you up that you're not alone, here are the problems I have from the email I sent Michael...

I find that I cannot play the wet B290 instruments, I didn't see this on the list of issues you posted. The dry are fine, but with the wet it seems some velocities of some notes will play, others are just getting a very short attack sample. the '16 no release' version has a click at the start of each note. with the dual layer mod wheel version, the dry position is fine, the wet has the problems mentioned at first...

...On the yamaha close 16 layer low pass the release samples are really loud, I think much louder than EXS problem you have mentioned it also appears to have only 2 velocities. I'm also not sure about the OSX versions of the patches. the mid c to c# transitions is a bit dodgy... Also the middle C on some of the ambient patch is unnaturally short and unresonant...

...On the Steinway D the' Compressed Steinway D 8 layers & sustain' is very very bright on pedal up, and very very mellow on pedal down...

...On the Emperor, 'Emperor velocity 12 down cntrl' makes no sound... 'Emperor limited' makes a burst of noise only...

hope we hear some news soon...

[GliderBoy]

Maybe that's why he hasn't responded to my email about not receiving my group buy shipment yet. Are there others who have not yet received their shipments?

It took a while, but I just received mine on Thursday.

[musical.matthew]

I still haven't received my group buy shipment or any reply from Michiel to my emails. Is there anyone else in my situation? I'm starting to get a but frustrated over this...

Matthew

[GliderBoy]

I've recently downloaded the "Extras" file from the bjork page. This is the .rar file that was missing form the HALion etc. discs in the Consolidated package. It seems that one of the files in the archive (bass flute 1.gig) is corrupt.

I've re-downloaded the file several times, and I still get the same corrupt file, so it seems it's a problem on the source file. I'm using WinRAR to extract it.

Has anyone else noticed this problem?

Michiel, is this something you can fix in the file at your end?

Thanks,
Glider

[bnmoore]

It was corrupted in the .rar file for me also but it seems that all of the files are available individually as well. Try the single file download.

Ben N. Moore

[GliderBoy]

Thanks very much, Ben. I got the single file and it's clean.

Regards,
Glider

[Seq]

Thanks, Ben. That helps me too!

[metrobot]

I still haven't received my group buy shipment or any reply from Michiel to my emails. Is there anyone else in my situation? I'm starting to get a but frustrated over this...

Matthew

I got my original group buy discs, but I've never gotten any new discs fixing all the various errors. Nor have I gotten a response to my PM, so I don't know what's up. So far, I can only use Estonia (after clicking "OK" for 5 minutes during the load) and the instruments I downloaded from the bjork page. Kinda frustrating.

[tquandt]

I think Michiel is on a holiday...

[musical.matthew]

I think Michiel is on a holiday...

I hope that's the case because I wouldn't be happy if he was around and just ignoring me. Even if it is the case though, I'm a bit frustrated. My credit card was charged 6 weeks ago and I have nothing to show for it!

Matthew

[Seq]

I also thought on holiday.

I don't think any disks with fixes were sent out, were they? Just the "Extra" samples in the online files.

[Seq]

Hey everyone, anybody heard from Michel yet? Any resolution to some of our questions? I thought it might be a good idea to keep this thread alive until our questions are resolved.

[Michiel Post]

Hi all,
I´m back and it looks like all problems are solved here. I´ll post the fixes and downloadable content here as soon as it´s finished.

[GliderBoy]

Great, thanks Michiel!

[Seq]

Welcome back, Michiel, and thank you for the update!

[potatobug]

Welcome back Michiel!
Recieved my replacement disc today and all is well.

Amazing pianos!!!

Thank You Sir!!!

Pat

[Michiel Post]

OK, here is the update.
Visit our website for the special groupbuy updates (http://www.postpiano.com/support/groupbuy/)


You will find the next updates.
EXS24
For Consolidated:
EXS Anvils.zip (23 MB) This whole folder was missing.

For PianoMagic
Estonia EXS.zip (new instruments with installation instructions),
STEINWAY EXS.zip (new Instruments)


Kontakt
Consoldiated.
Kontakt Extras.zip (full extras instruments is 145 MB)
Orchestral Instr K1.zip (replaces the corrupt instruments from

For Piano Magic
STW D 24 bit for Kontakt 1.5.zip
STW D K1 distant.zip

Click here (http://www.postpiano.com/support/groupbuy/) to find the download page.

Please report any problems (or omissions) and request updates on CD-ROM with your groupbuy order number to PMI Support (info@postmusicalinstruments.com) or in this topic.
More notes tomorrow.

[Michiel Post]

The GroupBuy Update Page now has all the links and instructions you need to download the latest versions.
Visit our website for the special groupbuy updates (http://www.postpiano.com/support/gb)

Send us an email (info@postmusicalinstruments.com) if you want to get the updates on CD-ROM.