Redesigning Name Brands

[Tony Caught]

Hi Tom,

I think that you will find that all who do modify pianos (when it works out)
use the modification to further there own reputations. An example would be
the Yamaha G2 modified by Ron Overs.

The piano is still a Yamaha, but, modified scale, modified soundboard and
bridges, new action ?, and etc.

A reconditioned G2 is worth say $16,000.00, Ron wants $22,500.00 because in
his opinion the modified piano plays and sounds better than the non modified
one.

I think that Ron would sooner call the piano an Overs instead of a Yamaha
but in reality it is still a Yamaha.

I suppose it's much the same with cars. The Cobra and the Selby Cobra is one
instance and then there is all the Show cars, modified and chopped to blazes
but still called by their original name because they want people to know
what they started with.

When I restring (rescaled) pianos and use non original type hammers, I tell
the customer, put it in writing and write something on a key in the piano.
when I design and build a piano I put the Name Caute on it.

Regards

Tony Caught

----- Original Message -----
From: Tom J Armstrong <pianostom@juno.com>
To: <pianotech@ptg.org>
Sent: Friday, July 06, 2001 4:36 PM
Subject: Redesigning Name Brands


> I've enjoyed the discussion lately about whether it is acceptable to
> modify, redesign, or even use non-factory parts on certain pianos, such
> as S & S.
>
> On one hand, a piano, once purchased, really is the property of the
> owner.  The owner doesn't need permission from the manufacturer to paint
> it green or yellow, or to change the scale, soundboard, hammers, or
> sostenuto mechanism.  Mercedes doesn't care if I replace my water pump
> with their part or someone else's (except for their lost profit).
> (Actually, I drive a Ford Escort!)
>
> On the other hand, from the perspective of future owners, it seems unfair
> to leave the impression that the piano is "the real thing" if large
> modifications have occurred.  Antiques, for instance, are often best left
> alone even if they could be functionally or visually improved.  With a
> heavily modified piano, a future buyer might be unable to know what they
> are really getting. For example, in the automotive world,  you might have
> a Volkswagen car, but retrofitted with either a Yugo or BMW transmission.
>  As a result of good intentions but lack of expertise, I've seen pianos
> that were far worse off after major "work".  I suppose a manufacturer
> could be concerned about "their" piano's reputation as a result.  And
> whether we like it or not, S & S pianos in particular are often thought
> of as investments.
>
> However, I've also come to appreciate the research and development
> evident in some of the successful instruments coming from good
> rebuilders.  Obviously, the piano industry should be more progressive in
> R & D, but I don't see much new from the big manufacturers except digital
> players.  The technical know-how I see is amazing at PTG conventions and
> Pianotech.  I look forward to hearing and seeing the Overs-maha grand at
> the convention, for instance.  Maybe the big manufacturers will get the
> hint that change can be a good thing.
>
> So I've been thinking . . .Perhaps the rebuilders who are making changes
> (major ones), should put THEIR name on the piano too.  Perhaps a summary
> of the changes made, much as Steinway puts on the soundboard decal
> (accelerated action, diaphragmatic soundboard, etc.)  In the high
> performance car world, there are a number of after marketers who improve
> name brands, such as the Saleen Mustang.  They proudly put their name on
> their finished product.
>
> It is one thing to change hammers with good ones, restring and tweak the
> scale a little, etc.  If you think that you can design the piano better
> than the manufacturer did, go for it.  Your customer may really benefit.
> If you change it A LOT though, put your name and modifications on it so
> all the world can appreciate your work.  That way future techs and owners
> know what in the world is under the hood!  If you want to try a carbon
> fiber/polyester reverse crown soundboard with titanium bridges, go ahead!
>
>
> Tom Armstrong, RPT
> Salinas, CA