My experience is a bit different. I use Ronsen hammers frequently (all types) and think very highly of them. However, I would say that it is rare that the upper end of the piano does not need hardening and often some in the bass as well. Of course, it depends on the type of felt. VFG is, perhaps, the one exception being firmer than the rest and I’ve used it without having to harden at all. The Bacon is the softest and I’ve never (maybe once—exceptional case) not had to harden the entire set some though out. The Weickert has been the next step up and has, so far, always needed some help, though less than the Bacon. The Wurzen AA has been the next most dense and arrives at an acceptable level in the midrange, though for some it will want to come up. The treble, however, has also needed some help with a light lacquering on pretty much every piano that I’ve used it on. There have been some pianos where a different hammer choice was better given the requirements of the scale/soundboard. While it would seem that simply using a different hammer type would solve the question variable density requirements, each of the felts mentioned, Bacon, Weickert, Wurzen VFG goes through a different process in the manufacturing of the sheet itself that gives each a slightly different character. While those differences may be subtle they are nevertheless there. A VFG hammer will not sound the same as a Bacon Felt with lacquer in it. I agree whole heartedly with your overall statement that the hammer that requires the least amount of manipulation (up or down) is usually the best choice for a variety of reasons. While Ronsen makes a huge contribution to this industry (and I fear the day that Ray retires), there will be times when going outside the Ronsen family of hammers will be necessary, or at least recommended in my view, to satisfy the particular needs of a given piano. At least that’s been my experience. As mentioned previously, I think (and agree) that sampling is the best way to determine the best fit. David Love www.davidlovepianos.com ----------------------------------------------------------------- Hi Terry Its usually the people who have only ancient experience with Ronsen products who say the hammer is too soft. Boggles my mind. so...I wouldn't be too quick to drink that cool-aid. For example...If you install Wurzen AA felt the sound may be too strident as it is quite a firm felt. Needling will be required. Almost for sure no hardeners required. Same with the VFG felt from Germany Ronsen Piano Hammer/Ray Negron can make a hammer from felt for almost any density required and He or I can supply it. I'd be willing to send some samples to try? Just ask. > Terry, > I believe Ronsen would be too soft. Abel is a better guess. > Roger > > -----Original Message----- From: Terry Farrell
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