Grand Regulation Compromises

[Overs Pianos]

Terry et all,

>Thanks Kjell.  10mm equals about 0.394 inches. Believe me, I agree that the
>english system of measurements is quite a bit goofy. I was a scientist in a
>previous life and fully appreciate the simplicity and utility of the metric
>system. I also agree that regulation in the piano is best - but when you are
>starting out with a train wreck that needs repairs, etc., I like to do it in
>the shop.

Well you sound like you are on the way to becoming a seasoned 
technician Terry. Your observations are 'by and large' pretty astute. 
By the way, hows that digital overhead image cooking?

After years of regulating performance instruments, and taking note of 
the preferences of a number of pianists, I have settled on a key dip 
of 10.25 mm. I have found that a 10.5 dip will yield the occasional 
"it's too deep" complaint, and vice versa with 10.0 mm. Obviously, 
the center of 'public preference' has come about in part from the 
individual's experience with a number of different instruments, but 
setting the dip to a figure which will satisfy the greatest number of 
pianist is to be recommended, provided that the action in question 
will function well at that setting.

You're onto it when you suggest that altering the blow distance is 
the preferred variable for achieving the desired after touch. 
Further, since most actions are set up with the jack/knuckle contact 
well below the line of centres, bringing the strike up will generally 
improve the overall dynamic performance of the action.

It is also worth noting that the nominal factory settings won't 
necessarily function properly in every case. Since an out of spec. 
capstan line or action stack positioning will cause all sorts of 
complications with regard to regulation. Therefore, it is always good 
practice to completely regulate a few sample notes before plunging 
into a full 30 hour reg, only to find that it won't function properly 
when set to a factory standard.

I'd also support those who have reservations about bench regulating. 
At best, it will get you within the ballpark. This is fine if its an 
action rebuild, where the first reg is basically to get the thing 
playing. But for the final result, 'in the piano' is the way to 
travel.

Best,

Ron O.
-- 
______________________________

Website:  http://www.overspianos.com.au
Email:        mailto:ron@overspianos.com.au
______________________________