Having experimented with steam and alcohol as a voicing method, I have to say that in my experience, it is not a good method for most voicing situations. It is almost impossible to use these methods without effecting the striking surface of the hammer. However, under many conditions, the desired effect does not involve softening the crown of the hammer. There will be some that need it and some that don't. There will be many times when you don't want to change the texture of the crown, rather you will need to address the hard areas that are deeper in the hammer, perhaps under the strike point, just off the crown, or in the shoulder. Only experience and experimentation will tell you where it is that you need to soften. It seems like a nice shortcut, easier on the body, etc.. It may be appropriate for impossibly hard hammers. But unless you are completely familiar with it's effects, I would stick with needles. David Love ----- Original Message ----- From: <Bigeartb@AOL.COM> To: <pianotech@ptg.org> Sent: January 09, 2002 7:58 PM Subject: Terry/Yamaha Voicing > Terry: > Take everything in proper sequence as has been stated: tuning, regulation, > etc. Lastly consider voicing with the client by your side every moment. > Voicing is purely subjective. I offer what may be an unorthodox method but it > has worked beautifully for me. Mix isopropy alcohol 50%/50% water and after > filing your hammers apply one application of this solution on the "too > hard"hammers . I use a small plastic squeese bottle with a long metal spout > (Schaff) and apply "only" one continuous stream from top to bottom of hammer > felt at a fairly rapid pace. The only draw back is you must wait until the > next day to determine the results. However in most cases, I don't have to do > much needling but have the needles handy...just in case. > > Tommy Black > Birmingham, Ala. >
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