--- Allegrofinemusic@AOL.COM wrote: > Hi List > For a new bloke on the block ( get it) I'm grateful > for the info I am picking > up. > Just a tiny, little, incy, question. > Where these over dampers cheaper to manufacture? > > I guess they were, but my understanding is that the damping was not entirely satisfactory, even in their day. Designs varied, of course, and some were better than others, but the underdamper worked better and became the norm as manufacturers updated their designs and moved with the times. Those that did not move with the times went out of business. It is part of piano history and it is nice to come across one from time to time, they don't fill me with horror - I'm used to dealing with them and I guess some will be around a little longer yet. It's interesting that they are rarely seen in America. I'm sure the climate may have something to do with this. Most of the overdamper/straight strung pianos I come across are tuned to original international pitch c517 which is almost a semi-tone below the pitch we use today. Many customers aren't bothered by this, and those that do worry about pitch would have updated their pianos. Bob Wilson London __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Send your FREE holiday greetings online! http://greetings.yahoo.com
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