Tone Profile

A percussive grand piano sound treated with prominent slapback delay and reverb to simulate a live stadium atmosphere.

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• Recorded at Château d'Hérouville, France.
• Producer Gus Dudgeon added the distinctive delay and reverb effects during the mixdown stage.
• The goal was to replicate the sound of Elton John performing live in a large venue.
• The piano itself was recorded relatively dry, with the ambience added artificially.
• Audience sound effects were added later to enhance the live illusion.

Recreation Tips

• Start with a bright, well-maintained grand piano sound (acoustic or virtual).
• Apply a slapback delay with a time around 80-120ms, minimal feedback, and a relatively high mix level.
• Use a spacious reverb, like a large hall or plate setting, also mixed prominently.
• EQ lightly to taste, potentially boosting upper mids for clarity.
• Consider subtle compression to control dynamics if needed.

Recommended Gear

• Yamaha C3 Grand Piano(instrument)
• Spectrasonics Keyscape (Yamaha C7 Model)(plugin)
• Neumann U87(mic)
• Universal Audio EMT 140 Plate Reverb(plugin)
• Soundtoys EchoBoy (Tape Delay Setting)(plugin)
• Strymon Volante(pedal)
• Universal Audio LA-2A Compressor(plugin)