Hi - A lot of companies offer sample libraries that include various models of Steinway pianos [Steinway B, Steinway D, etc]. If you search for 'sample library steinway' you should be directed to a number of them [including Native Instruments, EastWest, Garritan, and many others, and even a piano modeler [Modartt] that includes Steinway emulations]..

Hi - Maybe the Modartt modeled piano..? They have a smaller version that's mostly just playback and larger versions where you can tweak the sound, but none as inexpensive as $70 AFAIK.. But a lot of sample libraries do that as well -- off the top of my head I don't remember particular companies' options. I guess you may have to check out some of the [many] links that come up in searches for 'Steinway virtual instrument' or the like..

Yes, I've used the Modartt pianos and they're very good. I'm partial to the Steinway B, which is a classic 6' studio grand, but the D is a larger 9' concert grand with a bigger low end, which some people like better. If you're looking at the model packs, aren't they add-ons that require that you already own the basic plug-in ($149)? If so, I'm sure the basic plug-in already includes a bunch of different pianos, plus two additional packs apparently, and can be upgraded at any time to the larger, more programmable versions.. https://www.modartt.com/pianoteq_stage

Most Steinway D virtual instruments will capture the basic quality of that particular piano, but they'll all sound, and importantly, play a little differently. I like Modartt's pianos because their dynamic response feels more smooth and even to me than some sampled pianos, thanks to the modeling technology, but many high-end sampled pianos are equally good -- a lot of it is up to personal preference. Since there are no samples involved, you can install a demo of the Modartt software that includes all the available pianos and try it out and compare before taking the plunge.. And yes, the Modartt plug-in [AU version] can be used in GarageBand.

Yes, probably every sample library offers some kind of Steinway piano -- quick searches for 'steinway piano virtual instrument' and 'steinway piano sample library' turned up several dozen. I'd expect all would have audio demos on their websites..

Hi - That's exactly what I meant, slightly richer, fuller-sounding low notes in the bass range, typical of a 9' grand as opposed to a smaller 6' grand. As far as I know, the only piano that actually has a range that extends below the usual 88 keys is the Boesendorfer Imperial Grand, which goes down to the C below the normal lowest [A] note on a piano [97 notes].

To use a 3rd-party instrument in GarageBand here's what you do.. - Install the instrument -- the install should include several plug-in formats, including the AudioUnit [AU] format which GB uses - Create a new Software Instrument track in GB - Open the Smart Controls panel at the bottom [View menu > Show Smart Controls, or shortcut: B] - Down in the Smart Controls panel open the Plug-ins tab - In the pulldown menu go to AU Instruments, find the Instrument manufacturer, and select the Instrument - You should now be able to play the Instrument [if it's a demo version you may have to respond to an authorization prompt, but you should be able to tell it to run as a demo]