Vienna Symphonic Library has announced the release of three new sample-based virtual piano instruments: an early Steinway & Sons Concert D from 1887, and two Piano Essentials products based on the Synchron Bösendorfer Imperial and the Synchron Yamaha CFX.
The Studio Concert D 1887 aims to bring to life the sound of the rare and lyrical voice of a remarkable early Steinway D concert grand, serial no. 62523 – the only known instrument of its series (1884–1892) that has actually been preserved in its original condition and professionally restored.
This unique piano represents a fascinating moment in Steinway & Sons’ evolution, bridging 19th-century craftsmanship with the innovations to come. Distinct from later Model Ds, it features an additional duplex scale and angled bridge pins that create different string lengths for each note, resulting in a lyrical, singing tone unlike any other concert grand of its time.
Having spent nearly 140 years in what can only be described as a time capsule, this piano was found in astonishingly original condition. Every part of its mechanism was preserved, including the original hammerheads, which were expertly reworked to revive the instrument’s authentic 1887 sound. Only three components were replaced during restoration – new strings, historically correct blued tuning pins, and red bearing felts – ensuring that its original substance remained virtually untouched.
At Vienna Synchron Stage, this exceptional instrument was recorded in Stage B using VSL’s proprietary piano robot, capturing every velocity and release with absolute precision. Multiple microphone positions – including close condenser, sphere, and tube mics, mid and Decca Tree setups, as well as a surround configuration – provide unmatched tonal flexibility.
The Studio Concert D 1887 is currently available at introductory prices of $256 USD (regular $335 USD) for the Standard Library and $424 USD (regular $559 USD) for the Full Library.
Also available are two new Essentials series instrument libraries:
- Bösendorfer Imperial Essentials: This streamlined edition of VSL’s premium collection Synchron Bösendorfer Imperial embodies the majestic soul of Vienna’s most celebrated concert grand. Capturing the warmth, power, and orchestral depth of Bösendorfer’s legendary 290 Imperial with its 97 keys and eight octaves, Bösendorfer Imperial Essentials brings the instrument’s unmistakable timbre straight to the studio in an accessible, easy-to-use format. Recorded on the Hollywood-proven Stage A of Vienna Synchron Stage, it delivers the Imperial’s characteristic brilliance, rich overtones, and powerful bass in a mix-ready sound that shines across every musical genre.
- Yamaha CFX Essentials: This Essentials edition embodies the brilliance and versatility of Yamaha’s flagship concert grand in a focused, accessible version of Vienna’s acclaimed premium collection Synchron Yamaha CFX. Capturing the distinctive clarity, power, and precision that define this world-class instrument, this streamlined edition distills the full expressive range of the CFX into an inspiring, ready-to-play virtual piano. Recorded on the large Stage A of the Vienna Synchron Stage, Yamaha CFX Essentials delivers a sound that’s both modern and timeless – perfectly suited for any musical style, from classical and jazz to pop and film scoring.
The Bösendorfer Imperial Essentials and Yamaha CFX Essentials are available at introductory prices of $99 USD each. Additionally, selected Synchron and Studio Pianos are available at a 40% discount during the intro promotion.
The offer is available at the VSL store and from Best Service until November 16th, 2025.
