Choice

[Wilsons]

David:  Have you listened to the two pianos?
--Wally Wilson, RPT

David ilvedson wrote:

> 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