We took every pluck, vibration, release and extraneous noise in full-frontal detail, accurately replicating the deep resonance of the body of the instrument, as well as a precise recreation of the plectrum re-catching the string on release. Key noises are velocity-sensitive, adding extra power and weight to the sound where the plectrums cannot contribute any further, and these key noises can be controlled independently from the strings. Pulling specific stops/buttons or moving specific levers will create the same noise as it does on the real instrument. The notes themselves are also velocity-sensitive, to simulate the timings of the 3 different sets of plectrums.

Key noises, release noises and stops can be controlled via the settings in the interface. Key and release noises are controlled independently from the strings, and their dials can be assigned to a CC.

Harpicordo has four distinct sounds across two separate manuals; an 8' and a Lute stop on the lower manual, and an 8' and a 4' on the upper manual. These can be applied or removed seamlessly in real time and each of them can be assigned their own CC. Both manuals can be controlled separately via MIDI split. With no stops selected, Harpicordo will still respond as it does in real life, thanks to the velocity-controlled key noises.

It is a common misconception that Bach’s 48 Preludes and Fugues were written to celebrate equal temperament - in fact, they were written to demonstrate the feasibility of composing in well-temperament, with each of the 24 major and minor keys offering their own characters and colours. In Harpicordo, we have included 18 carefully curated presets, drawing from Kirnberger, Werckmeister, Neidthardt, Rameau, Couperin and many others, so that you can hear for yourself the difference between Equal Temperament and Well Temperament at the click of a button. As well as the presets, Harpicordo offers options to create and tweak your own system, with a control for each note, and a base tuning dial to control all notes at once as well as options for random detuning and control over the tuning of each manual separately.