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WHALETONE
Whaletone as a bespoke musical instrument, designed by Robert Majkut. Being a unique combination of an original design and advanced technology, it caters for the taste of both design lovers, and professional musicians.
After 3 years from the premiere model of Whaletone Royal, there have prepared a smaller version Whaletone Grand. Whaletone Grand model is more compact size, has improved design solutions, completely new sound and acoustic solutions, more bespoke possibilities and full mechanical keys system!Please find more information below.
GRAND HYBRID
Whaletone Grand is our latest model which brings a few important innovations.
Whaletone Grand is an answer to the needs of those for whom the Royal model was too exacting one due to its dimensions. Not losing a thing from the Royal model's character, proportions, slenderness and characteristic line, it is its smaller equivalent owing to which it needs much less space and it is easier to be transported while the best acoustic features are remained unchanged.
However, apart from the smaller size, Whaletone Grand first of all offers completely new solutions in the play mechanics. Addressing musicians' needs, their sensitivity to the subtleness of the play elements, we have designed a completely new system which is meant to make the manner of playing the instrument even more similar to the one which is felt while playing acoustic instruments. A system which joins classical mechanics with all the digital possibilities indicates the direction in which Whaletone grand pianos develop.
HEART OF SOUND
The model of a sound processor, a flagship model of Roland brand, with one of the best sound of the acoustic grand piano and a list of more than 500 various high quality sounds built-in. The is the musical heart of Whaletone. The processor generates an outstandingly authentic sound of a string grand piano which is rendered owing to the Super Natural Piano technology and is available in three types of sounds, i.e. Concert, Studio and Brilliant, and 30 selectable variations as well as 10 sounds of electric pianos in 15 variations, all of which are based upon the Super NATURAL technology too. This guarantees the highest quality enriched still by so important for professional musicians natural sounding elements as smooth and natural sound which makes it even more real, speed and reaction to finger hit, smooth transfer among the levels of dynamics with no unnatural loops of samples. Apart from the extraordinarily natural sound of the classical grand piano, it is also the entire richness of programmed sounds from the vintage models of 1960s to 80s , via combinations of types of sounds to the opportunity to create one's own, completely new sounds.
Owing to the programmable pushbuttons and the One Touch Piano function, a swift access to the set sounds is possible, and due to the built-in display one may control the settings of the sounds which include 242 normal sounds, 10 organ sounds Tone Wheel, 256 sounds GM2, 5 rhythmic sets and 9 rhythmic GM2 sets.
Perfect FEEL
The keyboard is an extremely subtle and complex mechanism which is responsible for the physical aspects of play. Its perfectness is one of the crucial features of a grand piano. Its balance, operation, materials of which it is made, quality of the elements, their precision which is followed by the "feel" it offers are one of the most important elements of play and affect the quality of the instrument. Our new solution is based upon the use of full mechanics of a classical hammer mechanism to strengthen the impression of full naturalness and coherence of the manner of play. The mechanics of the keys are components coming from best German manufacturers (Kluge and Louis Renner) who guarantee the highest quality worldwide. The keyboard covered with high quality Ivoplast plastic (white keys) and ebony (black ones) is a solution applied by manufacturers worldwide to build best instruments, including Whaletone grand pianos.
Full, classic mechanics of the keys joined with the digital possibilities of Whaletone grand pianos brought entirely new quality into playing our instruments.
Moving Keys
Due to the completely new solutions introduced into the mechanics of the keys of the Whaletone grand pianos, it is now possible to use an additional, attractive option, i.e. the Moving Keys function owing to which with your Whaletone you may listen faithfully imitated performances of your favorite artists, download new pieces, record and play your own music all that with full dynamics and the visual effect of the moved keys. This function, integrated with the net, connected to a growing library, is controlled with an iPad delivered together with the system.
MUSIC POWER
Whaletone is an independently playing digital instrument which emits strong and clear sounds. This is owing to the built-in acoustic solutions of a high level. Whaletone Grand is equipped with an internal, professional, Hi-End-based, noiseless, digital amplifiers of the power of more than 200 W per each channel. Separate, dedicated amplifiers for individual bands - from ultralow to high tones which operate with no distortions in the pure direct standard, have provided the possibility of harmonic and natural setting of the power level balanced for individual channel. The main ones for individual sounds of the frequencies are supplemented with a wider range of harmonic sounds and directed to the appropriately balanced low-, mid- and high-tone speakers of the range of 18Hz - 24kHz.
SOUND
Under the electrically lifted cover which rises majestically on pushing a button. In the "soul" of the piano there are famous for their high quality and beautiful, clear sound Hi-End speakers of the Danish Company Scan Speak which build an expressive, dynamic and precisely composed sound scene full of low, fleshy tones, also the high ones, precisely emphasized. The sound scene made with 5 appropriately selected and located speakers co-creates the effect of three-dimensionality and location of individual sounds, and reflects exactly their distribution at delicate as well as dynamic, loud play. The full band of frequencies necessary to reflect the natural tones of a grand piano obtained also via the scale and power selection, intensity and dynamics is an answer to the needs for uncompromising emission of the instrument sound within the full range, tone and dynamics on the highest level which is expected by the pianist. What is new in the Grand model is the use of a passive membrane at the bottom of the instrument. The membrane amplifies the effect of naturalness of propagation of low sounds as in a wooden sound board.
INDIVIDUAL SOUND CONTROL
Each Whaletone grand piano is individually configured within the scope of positioning and amplifying of the sound. Via the use of the possibilities offered by channel micro-delay adjustment, balancing correction or elimination of the redundant vibrations of the membranes, each instrument is individually configured. Owing to this, we obtain a checked, precise, equal, tone of full spectrum which is appropriately positioned in the space, perceivable for both the player and the audience as a natural positioning of the sound.
POSSIBILITIES
The independence of Whaletone grand piano does not limit it to chamber use. On the contrary, with the use of the connection sockets built-in the left leg and using the balanced XLR connections, it is possible to connect the instrument to a concert amplifier, which makes it a really concert instrument. In the same place, apart from the balanced XLR outputs, the grand piano has also MIDI inputs and outputs which provide connection to and cooperation with other devices, which creates nearly unlimited possibilities of connecting it to external consoles, sequencers, controllers, pads and other devices which are controlled with this protocol.
At the top of the side of the grand piano, beside the keyboard, there is a hand connection panel. Near the switch of the cover lift, there are two USB ports. One of them provides connection of a USB memory for storage, recording and replacement of the data and, e.g. for audio play whereas the other port provides connection to a computer. Whaletone cooperates with most of the software for sound recording but it may also be used as a controller of virtual instruments. Beside the USB inputs, there is a headphone socket which cuts the sound of the piano and provides play in the silent mode.
The fully-programmable pedals may be configured according to one's own preferences characteristic of the epoch of digital instruments. Each of the pedals is configurable both for its operation and for its functions.
As it is with a traditional instrument, a cover rises from the solid mass of the grand piano. However, here the cover is lifted with the use of an electric servomotor, easily and with no effort at all. The cover may be stopped at any position, which provides control of the strength and damping of the generated sound irrespectively of its settings adjusted with the amplifier potentiometer. Besides, this safe and smart solution offers controlled, smooth raising and lowering of the cover without a risk of its sudden snap and with the possibility to stop it at any position. The comfort and safety of the solution are the elements which illustrate our care for comfort and safety of each user. Even the minutest lover of play.
SOUND DEMO bar
Whaletone is a professional instrument for individualists. Fully adapted finishing, e.g. the color of the housing or upholstered finishing of the "soul" of the grand piano is a standard offer. The piano may meet individual requirements, which is emphasized by numerous adaptable elements. The grand piano always prepared upon individual order is dedicated to its user, strictly adapted to their preferences and requirements, always unique, marked with an individual number and dedication.
That is because we want it to be exactly what you wish it to be.
Bespoke
Stainless Steel
The grand piano has many metal, visibile elelements of its finishing. The hinge of the upper cover, note stand, decorative inside of the rim, handles and many other. Our offer gives also a choice of the finishing of those important and supplementary parts. We may make them in polished steel or brass but also in mat, velvety aluminum. Upon your request, gold or silver plating may be used in traditional techniques, or the parts may be entirely made of precious metals, i.e. silver, white or red gold or platinum.
Note stand
One of the most visibile parts in Whaletone grand piano.Apart from the standard note stand, there are numerous versions and new ones are still being designed. However, the most important thing is that this is another opportunity to make one's instrument individual. The design of the line, ornaments, patterns, initials, favorite motifs may be smartly included in its shape.
Assistance
The multitude of the possibilities creates unlimited combinations. Besides the areas of the choice mentioned already, the experiments may go much further. Individually painted patterns, leather upholstery, a wide range of textures, shades, incrustations, light effects even. As long as it is Whaletone, much is possible.
Each Whaletone is made upon an individual order. We offer many possibilities of choice and many occasions to compose a Whaletone of your dreams. We do know it is a fascinating but also difficult choice. That is why we offer our assistance and knowledge, long experience in designing and a team who will help you make up your mind best. We try to advise as well as possible and compose the parts of the finishing according to your expectations, the assumed quality, and to visualize the planned effect. Owing to our assistance and advice, you may be sure that, finally, everything will make an elegant, coherent and beautiful instrument. Like no other.
Giving back
Imagination is part of the nature – the human nature. Imagination distinguishes us from other mammals, giving us the impulse to develop, but also hold us accountable for what we do. To thank for the dream, the imagination and the inspiration to create the Whaletone enterprise, Robert Majkut has decided to give something back to the environment. The Whaletone team is proud to support a program protecting endangered whale species. 1% from the value of total sale will be dedicated to an organization campaigning for whale protection.
About the designer
Robert Majkut is one of the leading European designers. His pioneering ideas and consistency in his approach to design have brought him well-deserved popularity and recognition as a creator of unique spaces and objects. A natural born rebel, with a deep interest in culture, Robert is constantly toying with new, break-through concepts. His style combines formal design with innovation and the latest technologies. Because of his education, experience and interests, Majkut always puts his projects in a proper cultural and social context.
As a designer Robert is inspired by the surrounding reality. He has a strong connection with nature, which reflects in his work through applied forms, shapes and ergonomics. Humanoid, round, nature-inspired lines are recognizable motifs in his works. For a long time he has been faithful to the message: ‘the future is tomorrow invented today’. His desire to improve the environment we live in has resulted in many, already iconic designs.
Robert Majkut Design studio has completed over 200 projects in 15 years since it was launched, in countries like Poland, Austria, China, Russia and Slovenia. The studio’s portfolio includes cinema interiors, fashion boutiques, concept stores and financial institutions – always setting new standards in design. Entering a space created by Robert Majkut is like entering a new reality where nothing seems impossible. Robert Majkut is also dedicated to industrial design – having created an exclusive collection of bespoke furniture and applied art objects.
WHALETONE
Whaletone Press Office
Office
Elizabeth Madej
T: +44 7900 45 86 18