So, I'm moving out with some friends soon and am looking to get a decent digital piano. Problem with that - a decent digital piano can run almost the same cost as a decent grand piano...

But I found the Ivory American Concert D Grand 1951, and I realize it's a computer program meant to be used with a DAW, but could I potentially set it up for use with a lower cost digital piano and get the tone I want from it for practice sake? It seems like a more affordable route.

The issue is that sound is only part of the equation. You can have beautiful sound, but with a limited action repetitions (for instance) are hard to achieve and/or come out really unnatural (quick drop and fast attack again).

Also, with a lesser keybed the subtlety of the different key velocities, or the half-pedaling will not be best exploited.

If you are only after sound and are mostly playing simple passages and use the pedal either on or off, then its a valid option, but the ideal combo is a great action/keybed with those top of the line samples. At least that is my humble opinion.

Rafa.

The Ivory II American D and Galaxy Vintage D are my two favorite virtual pianos. Either can be used just fine as a "standalone" Mac or Windows program for playing piano, i.e. you don't need a DAW. Pick a digital piano with a keyboard action you like and a continuous damper pedal (not on/off pedal) and either program should make you happy. Of course you will need good speakers or headphones (not my thing) to realize their great sound.

Wonderful. That'll save me a lot of money. I've got a decent keyboard I like the action on and a continuous sustain. Just has a horrible piano sound . So nice speakers and a $200 program is much nicer than trying to find $3000 for a decent level DP.