TONEDB

piano from “abc” by the jackson 5 | ToneDB

abc

the jackson 5

piano

AI generatedv1.0

Tone Profile

A bright, clean piano sound with a slightly compressed and punchy character, typical of Motown recordings. The tone is clear and present, fitting well within the mix without being overly dominant.

Gear

Steinway Grand Pianoinstrument
ReverbSweetwater
Neumann U67microphone
ReverbSweetwater
LA-2Acompressor
ReverbSweetwater

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The Story

The piano on "ABC" was recorded at Motown Studios in Detroit with engineer Bob Ohlsson, using a Steinway Grand Piano captured through a Neumann U67 microphone. The recording features the characteristic Motown piano sound - bright, punchy, and compressed to sit perfectly in the dense mix typical of the label's productions.

Production Credits

Producer: Berry Gordy

Engineer: Bob Ohlsson

Recorded at: Motown Studios, Detroit

Signal Chain

Instrument: Steinway Grand Piano

Microphone: Neumann U67

Recreation Tips

  • Start with a high-quality grand piano sample or recording.
  • Use a microphone known for its clear and balanced sound, such as a Neumann U67 or similar.
  • Apply moderate compression to even out the dynamics and add punch.
  • EQ can be used to further brighten the tone, but avoid harshness.
  • Consider using a touch of reverb to add depth and ambience.

Original Gear

  • Steinway Grand Piano(keyboard)
  • Neumann U67(mic)
  • LA-2A(compressor)

Substitutions & Recommendations

Native Instruments The Grandeur$199

Alternative to: Steinway Grand Piano

Sampled Steinway D that captures the bright, present character of classic grand piano recordings with multiple mic positions

ReverbSweetwater
Warm Audio WA-67$899

Alternative to: Neumann U67

Tube condenser mic that recreates the U67's balanced, clear sound perfect for capturing piano with vintage character

ReverbSweetwater
Universal Audio LA-2A Plugin$149

Alternative to: LA-2A Compressor

Authentic emulation of the optical compressor used to add the punchy, even dynamics characteristic of Motown piano sounds

ReverbSweetwater
Arturia Piano V3$199

Alternative to: Steinway Grand Piano

Includes multiple piano models with vintage recording characteristics and built-in processing for classic studio sounds

ReverbSweetwater
Klark Teknik 76-KT$199

Alternative to: LA-2A Compressor

Hardware compressor providing the optical compression characteristics needed for that punchy Motown piano sound

ReverbSweetwater

Sources

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