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.
Plugin comparison
Modartt Pianoteq 9 vs Spitfire LABS
Specs, price and the Dubspot Score, side by side — with our verdict on which sampler to buy.
Independent score / workflow fit / buying signal
Contenders
The side-by-side
8.9Great
Spitfire LABS is a free instrument platform of high-quality sampled sounds—pianos, strings, pads, and more—now also available via Splice INSTRUMENT as LABS' new home.
Score verdict
Which should you buy?
On the Dubspot Score, Modartt Pianoteq 9 comes out ahead (9.0). That said, the right pick depends on your workflow and budget — read both reviews before deciding.
Technical matrix
Specs compared
| Signal | Modartt Pianoteq 9 | Spitfire LABS |
|---|---|---|
| Price | €139–€399 | Free |
| Dubspot Score | 9.0 | 8.9 |
| Formats | VST3, AU, AAX, NKS, Standalone | VST3, AU, AAX |
| Type | Physically modelled piano / keyboard instrument platform | Free sampled 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 | VST3, AU, AAX (plugin host dependent on current player) |
| 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 | — |
| Price | — | Free instruments available (optional paid LABS+/subscription content exists) |
| Catalog | — | Pianos, strings, pads, choir, drums, experimental textures, and more |
| Legacy installer | — | https://legacylabs.spitfireaudio.com/download |
| New home | — | Splice INSTRUMENT hosts LABS content for many users |
See the full plugin database for more comparisons.