piano from “a thousand miles” by vanessa carlton | ToneDB
a thousand miles
vanessa carlton
piano
Tone Profile
The piano has a bright, clear tone with a slightly compressed and intimate feel, characteristic of a pop ballad. It's well-defined in the mid-range, providing a solid foundation for the vocals.
Shop This Rig
ToneDB may earn a commission from purchases made through these links.
Signal Chain
Instrument: Yamaha C7 Grand PianoShop on Reverb
Microphone: Neumann U87Shop on Reverb
Processing: Urei 1176Shop on Reverb
Recording Notes
- The piano was likely recorded with close-miking techniques to capture a detailed and direct sound.
- Compression was applied to even out the dynamics and create a controlled, present tone.
- Some EQ may have been used to enhance clarity in the mid frequencies and add brightness.
Recreation Tips
- Start with a bright-sounding grand piano, preferably a Yamaha C7.
- Use a close microphone placement with a Neumann U87 to capture detail and proximity.
- Apply moderate compression using a Urei 1176 to control dynamics and add punch.
- Experiment with EQ to enhance mid-range clarity and add subtle high-end sparkle.
Original Gear
ToneDB may earn a commission from purchases made through these links.
- Yamaha C7 Grand PianoShop on Reverb(keyboard)
- Neumann U87Shop on Reverb(mic)
- Urei 1176Shop on Reverb(compressor)
Substitutions & Recommendations
Alternative to: Yamaha C7 Grand Piano
Premium sampled Steinway D that can be EQ'd bright to match the C7's character, with detailed close-mic samples perfect for intimate pop ballads
Alternative to: Yamaha C7 Grand Piano
Includes multiple Yamaha grand piano models with extensive microphone positions, allowing you to dial in the close-miked sound
Alternative to: Neumann U87
Large diaphragm condenser with similar bright, detailed character to the U87 at a more accessible price point
Alternative to: Neumann U87
Direct U87 clone that captures the same bright, intimate piano sound for close-miking applications
Alternative to: Urei 1176
Exact software emulation of the hardware 1176 used on the original recording, providing the same fast attack compression character
Alternative to: Urei 1176
Hardware recreation of the 1176 with the same FET compression that adds punch and control to piano dynamics
Frequently Asked Questions
Community Insights
No community insights yet. Be the first to contribute!