Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 Stars
Native Instruments are back with another gorgeous piano library, and this time, it’s Claire — a Fazioli‑based Kontakt instrument that delivers realism and expressive depth. Following in the footsteps of the acclaimed Noire, Claire offers a rich and versatile sound that feels as great in delicate pop ballads as it does in cinematic scores.
At the heart of Claire is the Fazioli F308, a stunning 10‑foot Italian concert grand, recorded in detail at Galaxy Studios in Belgium. With a download size of 29.2GB, it’s packed with everything you’d expect from a high‑end virtual piano: crystal‑clear tones, beautifully detailed dynamics, and enough flexibility to shape it into whatever your music calls for.
Claire sounds amazing. Its tone is pure and vibrant, leaning into the bright, forward sound Fazioli pianos are famous for. Whether you’re scoring an emotional film scene or layering chords for a modern pop production, Claire’s clarity will cut through the mix without ever feeling sterile. That said, if you’re after darker, moodier vibes, you might still gravitate toward libraries like Noire.
One of the things that sets Claire apart is its intuitive interface. You can effortlessly adjust microphone positions (close, mid, and room) to fine‑tune your tone, and there’s lots of options for customizing the piano’s nuances: mechanical noise, pedal noise, reverb, delay... the controls feel natural and responsive.
A standout feature is the inclusion of the fourth pedal, exclusive to the Fazioli F308. This unique dynamic control allows you to soften the sound without altering its timbre, giving you an extra layer of expressiveness, especially in quieter passages. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference when you’re after that extra touch of realism.
And let’s not forget the Particles Engine, a creative tool carried over from Noire. This granular synthesis tool can transform Claire into something entirely unexpected. Whether you’re crafting ethereal textures or subtle rhythmic effects, the Particles Engine is a playground for composers looking to push boundaries and add a cinematic flair to their projects.
Verdict
Claire feels like a natural evolution of Native Instruments’ piano libraries. At $149 €129, it’s a serious contender for anyone who wants a piano that’s both timeless and forward‑thinking. Whether you’re drawn to its vivid tonal clarity or intrigued by its creative possibilities, this is an instrument that will quickly become a go‑to in your library. If you’ve been waiting for a virtual piano that combines technical precision with musical soul, Claire is definitely worth checking out.
£129
$149