This latest discussion about blow distance, key dip, letoff, and aftertouch is interesting. Several good points have been made. However, in the real world, pianist's opinions about what it good and what is not do differ. For example: I believe Rubinstein would not have liked the regulation that would have been ideal for Horowitz, despite the fact that he probably would have played it anyway and said nothing about it unless you asked him, and then he would have given you an ear full. Someone correct me if I'm wrong. Also, keep this in mind. Increasing the blow distance by one more eighth of an inch is not going to do much for increasing sound power. There won't be much difference in hammer velocity with a power stroke of 1.8125 vs 1.6875 inch, after we subtract the 0.0625-inch let-off distance, which is about as close as we dare get if we don't want to risk partial blocking somewhere. Also, the response of the human ear to sound pressure is logarithmic rather than linear. It's my understanding that Horowitz once commented: "Give me the repetition, and I will provide the power". For my part, and staying within limits, I like to regulate the action to the point where everything works at its best. And for a Steinway, that means that blow distance and key dip won't always be exactly the same for all pianos. Sincerely, Jim Ellis
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