What piano did Radiohead use on Paranoid Android?

Radiohead used a Steinway grand piano for the recording of 'Paranoid Android' at Abbey Road Studios. The piano was recorded by Nigel Godrich using close-miking techniques to achieve the bright, present sound heard on the track.

How to get Radiohead piano tone from OK Computer?

To recreate the piano tone from OK Computer, use a grand piano (preferably Steinway) recorded with a high-quality condenser microphone like a Neumann U87 positioned close to the instrument. Apply SSL-style compression to control dynamics and enhance clarity in the mix.

What studio recorded Radiohead OK Computer?

OK Computer, including 'Paranoid Android', was recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London. The album was produced and engineered by Nigel Godrich, who has worked extensively with Radiohead on multiple albums.

What microphone was used on Radiohead piano?

A Neumann U87 condenser microphone was used to record the piano parts on 'Paranoid Android'. This microphone choice contributed to the detailed, present sound that allows the piano to cut through the band's arrangement.

Who produced Radiohead Paranoid Android?

Nigel Godrich produced 'Paranoid Android' and the entire OK Computer album. Godrich also served as the engineer on the sessions, working closely with the band to achieve their distinctive sound at Abbey Road Studios.

piano from "paranoid android" by radiohead

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Tone Profile

The piano sound is bright and clear, with a slightly compressed and present quality. It's a very clean and distinct piano tone, cutting through the mix with clarity.

Shop This Rig

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Steinway Grand Piano(instrument)
Neumann U87(microphone)
SSL G-Series Compressor(processing)

The Story

The piano on 'Paranoid Android' was recorded at Abbey Road Studios with producer/engineer Nigel Godrich during the OK Computer sessions. The track features a Steinway grand piano captured with a Neumann U87 condenser microphone in a close-miking setup to achieve the detailed, present sound. SSL G-Series compression was applied to control dynamics and enhance the clarity that helps the piano cut through Radiohead's dense arrangement.

Production Credits

Producer: Nigel Godrich

Engineer: Nigel Godrich

Recorded at: Abbey Road Studios

Signal Chain

Instrument: Steinway Grand PianoShop on Reverb

Microphone: Neumann U87Shop on Reverb

Processing: SSL G-Series CompressorShop on Reverb

Recreation Tips

Start with a well-maintained grand piano, preferably a Steinway.
Use a high-quality condenser microphone like a Neumann U87 for close mic'ing.
Apply moderate compression using an SSL-style compressor plugin to even out the dynamics and add punch.
Consider slight EQ adjustments to enhance brightness and clarity without harshness.

Original Gear

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Steinway Grand PianoShop on Reverb(keyboard)
Neumann U87Shop on Reverb(mic)
SSL G-Series CompressorShop on Reverb(compressor)

Substitutions & Recommendations

Native Instruments The GrandeurPlugin Boutique$199-299

Alternative to: Steinway Grand Piano

Sampled from a Steinway D grand piano with multiple mic positions, allowing you to recreate the close-miked bright tone heard on the track

Audio-Technica AT4050Shop on Reverb$600-700

Alternative to: Neumann U87

Large-diaphragm condenser with similar clarity and presence characteristics to the U87, excellent for close piano miking

Waves SSL G-Master Buss CompressorPlugin Boutique$150-200

Alternative to: SSL G-Series Compressor

Authentic emulation of the SSL G-Series compressor used on the original recording, providing the same dynamic control and punch

Yamaha C7 Grand PianoShop on Reverb$80000-120000

Alternative to: Steinway Grand Piano

Premium alternative grand piano that can achieve similar brightness and clarity when recorded with proper technique

FMR Audio RNC 1773Shop on Reverb$180-220