Choice

[David ilvedson]

List,

I have a Hotel which just informed they are opening a new 
fancy restaurant.  They want a ebony, high polish seven foot 
grand.  I was sent to look at a Bechstein B, built at the turn of 
the century and restored in the Bechstein factory.  It is 
beautiful!  Those round turned legs.  Here is what was done:
New Renner action, (The tone is raw like it hasn't been voiced 
or gone over), numerous ivories replaced (well-done but the 
color  match isn't so great) new pinblock, restrung, case and 
plate refinished (fabulous, like a new, hey it is new!).  Here is 
the kicker though, the soundboard was shimmed and repaired, 
refinished and  original bridge.  Shimming work was 
immaculate.  Now they can get a brand new Mason & Hamlin 
BB for same price that the dealer is asking for the Bechstein.  
My advice was to go for the BB rather than take a chance on 
a 100 year old board.  Unfortunately I think the designer is 
going to really love those Bechstein legs.

What do you think?


David Ilvedson, RPT
Pacifica, CA
ilvey@jps.net