Hi Mike,
Yamaha V process plates have proven to have been a big winner
in the manufactuting process for 2 reasons, 1. It has the the tightest
diamentional standard in the industry. 2. It takes less than a hour to
manufacture, vs 24hrs or more with a sand poured plate.
Yamaha CF's and S series plates are made in the traditional manner, sand pour.
Some Samick and Young Chang's have Renner action PARTS, built to their
specs, I would not consider these actions a renner action because of iffy
action frames and sloppy assembly. and low quality weight off. Most Renner
actions that I have seen have Renner Stuttgart Germany stenciled on the
action rail.
Service support over two generations could be important to you. Parts
replacement etc.
Yamaha would be a clear winner.
Dealer support in your area is another important consideration, how long
has he been handling the product line? Too many times I have seen good
quality pianos sold by poor quality dealers that use the cheapest technical
support personel. Under these conditions a good quality piano may not be a
good purchase. Dealer prep and after sales service will count for 50% of
your satisfaction.
If you are trying to justify spending less and hoping to get the same
quality I will be suprised if you will be satisfied over the long term.
To shop for a good quality grand tech, you could start with your local
university music dept, or the local concert hall.
>Some of these arguments that you give for Yamaha seem to the same as what I
>heard from the Yamaha salesman I spoke to. If the Vacuum Shield Mold
>Process is so superior why aren't the Steinways, Bosendorfs, M&H, Bechstein,
>etc. using it also.
These companies could not afford the capital investment for the the equipment.
>The Petrof dealer would say that they use many of the same manufacturing
>techniques these other manufactures use.
Choose the piano you like. If money is a driving force reconize it and live
with it. If quality is your primary consideration cry a little and spend
the extra. The difference will be insigificant over 30years.
No answers, just some pointers.
P.S. I am a proud Baldwin Yamaha dealer and Technician, my choices was
made based on quality and dealer support.
Very unbiased. (Grin)
Roger
>
>
Roger Jolly
Baldwin Yamaha Piano Centre
Saskatoon and Regina
Saskatchewan, Canada.
306-665-0213
Fax 652-0505
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