Ableton Forum

Hi all,
So I'm working on a track and I've been struggling with a piano sound. I'm using ableton's grand piano instrument, with really only a few tweaks in eq and some reverb. I have been feeling a bit unsatisfied with it, because it's a little too raw sounding, and doesn't seem to fit snugly with the synths. It's hard to describe, but anyways, I'm looking for some help with the sound. Basically, have a listen and give me any thoughts regarding this (please don't comment on other instruments because I really won't give a shit).

Here's the link:
http://soundcloud.com/alec-mcgovern/work-in-progress

basically looking for answers to these questions:
Do you think it needs to be changed or does it sound good with the rest of the song?

If yes, then should I keep it as the piano instrument in ableton or totally change it to a synthesizer with similar sound?

How should this be done?

Thanks in advance and if you reply with a helpful comment I'll definitely return the favor if you want me to listen to anything

Forgot to say something about the reverse piano sounds in the original post...
just added those right before posting it here because I liked the effect, just know that it's super rough and I didn't feel like messing any more with it right then

I think it could do with some variation in the sound - perhaps change the velocity of the notes to put emphasis on certain notes or perhaps use autofilter with an LFO on it to make it more "rhythmic".

Maybe stick a delay on it and use clip automation to make the reverse notes repeat a little...or build up the effect until the next part comes in to build tension a wee bit.

Dunno...how about some chorus to make the sound "shimmer" a bit?

Personally I'm not a fan of the standard piano sound, if it were me I'd make it a Rhodes sounds...you could mash a Rhodes keyboard with your fist and it'll still sound good

If I'm stuck for sounds I'll usually turn to a Moog style VST as they are so easy to program and sound great. Good for inspiration...

Here's a free Moog VST which comes highly rated.

http://home.no/gunnare/

Hope this helps...