Audio Modeling's polyphonic SWAM instrument for orchestral sketching and live ensembles. $279 / €279 preorder from $399 / €399, desktop beta, mid-September 2026.
Plugin comparison
Audio Modeling PolySWAM vs Modartt Pianoteq 9
Specs, price and the Dubspot Score, side by side — with our verdict on which synth to buy.
Independent score / workflow fit / buying signal
Contenders
The side-by-side
9.0Essential
Modartt Pianoteq 9 is a physically modelled piano (~50MB) for Mac/Windows/Linux/iOS—Stage €139, Standard €269, PRO €399—with morphing, mics, and per-note PRO editing.
Technical matrix
Specs compared
| Signal | Audio Modeling PolySWAM | Modartt Pianoteq 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $279 / €279 preorder · $399 / €399 MSRP | €139–€399 |
| Dubspot Score | — | 9.0 |
| Formats | Desktop | VST3, AU, AAX, NKS, Standalone |
| Type | — | Physically modelled piano / keyboard instrument platform |
| Install size | — | ~50 MB class (instruments modelled, not multi-GB multisamples) |
| Editions | — | Stage (€139), Standard (€269), PRO (€399); Studio bundle (PRO + all packs, higher list) |
| Included packs | — | Stage: 2 packs; Standard: 3 packs; PRO: 4 packs (choose from catalog) |
| Stage features | — | Playable instruments, EQ, velocity curve, effects; limited deep model editing |
| Standard adds | — | Physical parameters (hammers, unisons, etc.), morphing/layering, microphone positioning |
| PRO adds | — | Per-note editing, higher sample-rate options, maximum model control |
| Formats | — | Standalone + VST3/AU/AAX/NKS |
| OS | — | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS |
| Upgrade path | — | Stage→Standard→PRO upgrades available; version upgrades from older Pianoteq often inexpensive |
| Free content | — | Historical instruments and bells included in product messaging |
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