Pianotech

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

What kind of hammer and how heavy? If you have to use hammer softener it's the wrong hammer. Hammer softeners will make it softer and also duller with diminished ability to get high partial development. If you're lucky you'll get a dull thud.

Older, flatter boards need softer and lighter hammers with lots of resilience and spring not dull wads of dead felt.

Put on the right set of hammers and don't waste anymore time or money.

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

Thanks for all your replies!

Susan, I didn't plan on using any alcohol unless that is what is in the PianoTek product. I have filed the hammers lightly and didn't require removing too much material. I have heard of using Vodka for strike point voicing but I have not experimented yet. 

Wim, I have had some good success with the steam voicing in the past. I have had to do return visits on some sets that Ineeded to be re-touched and I find it a bit hard to get an even response without having to do some needle work.  

Roger, The "B" model has a bad soundboard and my client knows that it is what should be done to both instruments. She wants them voiced anyway for the interim regardless of the malfunctioning components. You know how customers are and how they want improvements without having the cost for doing it right. I have been making NO promises to her about the tonal issues with chemical repairs other than my proposal for needed component restoration repairs.  She recently bought, a third, used 1921 model "O" with all original parts. She loves the tone, sustain and the quality of having the right hammers for the Steinway and I say to her again that it stands to reason for us to schedule the belly repairs. Also have briefed her that even with new hammers the instrument will only perform as well as the soundboard can. 

David, They look like Renner's to me but I'm not exactly sure. They could've used more of a full taper and some judicious arc molding removal remove some weight as the touch could use some evening improvements. I like your comments and I feel i should proceed with some small amounts at either end of the hammer strike string pattern and see what results I can get without soaking the life out of it. She has agreed to do the new hammers but needs to wait as there is a funds issue.

I appreciate everyone comments. 

What kind of hammer and how heavy? If you have to use hammer softener it's the wrong hammer. Hammer softeners will make it softer and also duller with diminished ability to get high partial development. If you're lucky you'll get a dull thud.

Older, flatter boards need softer and lighter hammers with lots of resilience and spring not dull wads of dead felt.

Put on the right set of hammers and don't waste anymore time or money.

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

David, I have found vodka voicing to be quite safe and controllable, if you start very slowly, feeling your way. You have to be aware that it is not totally reversible if you use a lot of vodka or if you repeat it several times.

Slowly, as in one or two drops right in the string grooves. See what you get. You just want to put a trace of cushion in the sound at piano and mezzo-piano, while leaving the harder core to kick in when playing louder. I don't trust big changes, and for me steam works way too fast and sinks too deep into the hammer.

I particularly like using a drop or two of vodka in the top octave, where the felt is thin and usually rock hard from juicing. It can temper that knife-edged hard as nails sound without harming the thin felt and without removing the focus and general brightness in the tone. I don't favor doing it over and over again, but you usually don't need to.

I use vodka when one short needle doesn't quite do enough. The combination of the two can give a lot of evenness at lower dynamic levels, without taking the focus from the sound, or gutting the louder tone.

There's a little trick Ted Sambell showed me once, in case a few notes are softer or fluffier than their neighbors. It has the virtue of being fast and temporary, but it can do a job in the short term. Choose a note softer or less focused than those around it. Press the string about halfway back with a finger across all three strings, firmly. Then with the other hand, play the note hard a half dozen times. It can put back some focus. One very nice thing about the technique is that the shift voicing isn't affected, as it is when a technician pulls the action out and whacks on the end of the hammer with the back of the voicing tool.

------------------------------
Susan Kline
Philomath, Oregon

Original Message:
Sent: 12-25-2016 15:15
From: David Chadwick
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

Thanks for all your replies!

Susan, I didn't plan on using any alcohol unless that is what is in the PianoTek product. I have filed the hammers lightly and didn't require removing too much material. I have heard of using Vodka for strike point voicing but I have not experimented yet. 

Wim, I have had some good success with the steam voicing in the past. I have had to do return visits on some sets that Ineeded to be re-touched and I find it a bit hard to get an even response without having to do some needle work.  

Roger, The "B" model has a bad soundboard and my client knows that it is what should be done to both instruments. She wants them voiced anyway for the interim regardless of the malfunctioning components. You know how customers are and how they want improvements without having the cost for doing it right. I have been making NO promises to her about the tonal issues with chemical repairs other than my proposal for needed component restoration repairs.  She recently bought, a third, used 1921 model "O" with all original parts. She loves the tone, sustain and the quality of having the right hammers for the Steinway and I say to her again that it stands to reason for us to schedule the belly repairs. Also have briefed her that even with new hammers the instrument will only perform as well as the soundboard can. 

David, They look like Renner's to me but I'm not exactly sure. They could've used more of a full taper and some judicious arc molding removal remove some weight as the touch could use some evening improvements. I like your comments and I feel i should proceed with some small amounts at either end of the hammer strike string pattern and see what results I can get without soaking the life out of it. She has agreed to do the new hammers but needs to wait as there is a funds issue.

I appreciate everyone comments. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264

Original Message:
Sent: 12-25-2016 01:16
From: David Love
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

What kind of hammer and how heavy? If you have to use hammer softener it's the wrong hammer. Hammer softeners will make it softer and also duller with diminished ability to get high partial development. If you're lucky you'll get a dull thud.

Older, flatter boards need softer and lighter hammers with lots of resilience and spring not dull wads of dead felt.

Put on the right set of hammers and don't waste anymore time or money.

------------------------------
David Love RPT
www.davidlovepianos.com
davidlovepianos@comcast.net
415 407 8320

Original Message:
Sent: 12-24-2016 05:55
From: David Chadwick
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264
------------------------------

Susan, 

After looking into more of the archives about this I am leaning more to the Vodka application. I suppose that a multi distilled brand would be preferable to the cheap stuff. Some 5 times distilled Grey Goose or Svedka perhaps. Also, doing some shoulder squeezing that I discovered from a Bill Spurlock class years ago, and also mentioned in a archived (Ballistol thread) should be employed to break the shoulder tension slightly.  I also use the Ted Sambell method of packing the string grooves slightly for massaging the attack a bit and not disturbing the shift strike point. As you mentioned, big changes are not welcome. This should put the voice my client is asking for and should last for a year before she is ready for the newer hammers. Thanks for your insights. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264

Original Message:
Sent: 12-26-2016 00:10
From: Susan Kline
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

David, I have found vodka voicing to be quite safe and controllable, if you start very slowly, feeling your way. You have to be aware that it is not totally reversible if you use a lot of vodka or if you repeat it several times.

Slowly, as in one or two drops right in the string grooves. See what you get. You just want to put a trace of cushion in the sound at piano and mezzo-piano, while leaving the harder core to kick in when playing louder. I don't trust big changes, and for me steam works way too fast and sinks too deep into the hammer.

I particularly like using a drop or two of vodka in the top octave, where the felt is thin and usually rock hard from juicing. It can temper that knife-edged hard as nails sound without harming the thin felt and without removing the focus and general brightness in the tone. I don't favor doing it over and over again, but you usually don't need to.

I use vodka when one short needle doesn't quite do enough. The combination of the two can give a lot of evenness at lower dynamic levels, without taking the focus from the sound, or gutting the louder tone.

There's a little trick Ted Sambell showed me once, in case a few notes are softer or fluffier than their neighbors. It has the virtue of being fast and temporary, but it can do a job in the short term. Choose a note softer or less focused than those around it. Press the string about halfway back with a finger across all three strings, firmly. Then with the other hand, play the note hard a half dozen times. It can put back some focus. One very nice thing about the technique is that the shift voicing isn't affected, as it is when a technician pulls the action out and whacks on the end of the hammer with the back of the voicing tool.

------------------------------
Susan Kline
Philomath, Oregon

Original Message:
Sent: 12-25-2016 15:15
From: David Chadwick
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

Thanks for all your replies!

Susan, I didn't plan on using any alcohol unless that is what is in the PianoTek product. I have filed the hammers lightly and didn't require removing too much material. I have heard of using Vodka for strike point voicing but I have not experimented yet. 

Wim, I have had some good success with the steam voicing in the past. I have had to do return visits on some sets that Ineeded to be re-touched and I find it a bit hard to get an even response without having to do some needle work.  

Roger, The "B" model has a bad soundboard and my client knows that it is what should be done to both instruments. She wants them voiced anyway for the interim regardless of the malfunctioning components. You know how customers are and how they want improvements without having the cost for doing it right. I have been making NO promises to her about the tonal issues with chemical repairs other than my proposal for needed component restoration repairs.  She recently bought, a third, used 1921 model "O" with all original parts. She loves the tone, sustain and the quality of having the right hammers for the Steinway and I say to her again that it stands to reason for us to schedule the belly repairs. Also have briefed her that even with new hammers the instrument will only perform as well as the soundboard can. 

David, They look like Renner's to me but I'm not exactly sure. They could've used more of a full taper and some judicious arc molding removal remove some weight as the touch could use some evening improvements. I like your comments and I feel i should proceed with some small amounts at either end of the hammer strike string pattern and see what results I can get without soaking the life out of it. She has agreed to do the new hammers but needs to wait as there is a funds issue.

I appreciate everyone comments. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264

Original Message:
Sent: 12-25-2016 01:16
From: David Love
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

What kind of hammer and how heavy? If you have to use hammer softener it's the wrong hammer. Hammer softeners will make it softer and also duller with diminished ability to get high partial development. If you're lucky you'll get a dull thud.

Older, flatter boards need softer and lighter hammers with lots of resilience and spring not dull wads of dead felt.

Put on the right set of hammers and don't waste anymore time or money.

------------------------------
David Love RPT
www.davidlovepianos.com
davidlovepianos@comcast.net
415 407 8320

Original Message:
Sent: 12-24-2016 05:55
From: David Chadwick
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264
------------------------------

<grin> Sure, I'm certain the piano will care about whether the alcohol is a five-star brand!

This is a more subtle than usual iteration of the universal joke after I write about vodka voicing: "a drink for the piano, a drink for the tuner, a drink for the piano ..." etc.

Having no temptation at all to drink the piano vodka (it's not exactly Oregon pinot noir), I buy 190 proof bulk alcohol at the liquor store and cut it half and half with tap water, right in the dropper bottle. A fifth of the 190 proof usually lasts me several years, even when I use some to make great shellac from flakes. The low cost is another good result of not soaking whole hammers in the stuff.

Susan, 

After looking into more of the archives about this I am leaning more to the Vodka application. I suppose that a multi distilled brand would be preferable to the cheap stuff. Some 5 times distilled Grey Goose or Svedka perhaps. Also, doing some shoulder squeezing that I discovered from a Bill Spurlock class years ago, and also mentioned in a archived (Ballistol thread) should be employed to break the shoulder tension slightly.  I also use the Ted Sambell method of packing the string grooves slightly for massaging the attack a bit and not disturbing the shift strike point. As you mentioned, big changes are not welcome. This should put the voice my client is asking for and should last for a year before she is ready for the newer hammers. Thanks for your insights. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264

Original Message:
Sent: 12-26-2016 00:10
From: Susan Kline
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

David, I have found vodka voicing to be quite safe and controllable, if you start very slowly, feeling your way. You have to be aware that it is not totally reversible if you use a lot of vodka or if you repeat it several times.

Slowly, as in one or two drops right in the string grooves. See what you get. You just want to put a trace of cushion in the sound at piano and mezzo-piano, while leaving the harder core to kick in when playing louder. I don't trust big changes, and for me steam works way too fast and sinks too deep into the hammer.

I particularly like using a drop or two of vodka in the top octave, where the felt is thin and usually rock hard from juicing. It can temper that knife-edged hard as nails sound without harming the thin felt and without removing the focus and general brightness in the tone. I don't favor doing it over and over again, but you usually don't need to.

I use vodka when one short needle doesn't quite do enough. The combination of the two can give a lot of evenness at lower dynamic levels, without taking the focus from the sound, or gutting the louder tone.

There's a little trick Ted Sambell showed me once, in case a few notes are softer or fluffier than their neighbors. It has the virtue of being fast and temporary, but it can do a job in the short term. Choose a note softer or less focused than those around it. Press the string about halfway back with a finger across all three strings, firmly. Then with the other hand, play the note hard a half dozen times. It can put back some focus. One very nice thing about the technique is that the shift voicing isn't affected, as it is when a technician pulls the action out and whacks on the end of the hammer with the back of the voicing tool.

------------------------------
Susan Kline
Philomath, Oregon

Original Message:
Sent: 12-25-2016 15:15
From: David Chadwick
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

Thanks for all your replies!

Susan, I didn't plan on using any alcohol unless that is what is in the PianoTek product. I have filed the hammers lightly and didn't require removing too much material. I have heard of using Vodka for strike point voicing but I have not experimented yet. 

Wim, I have had some good success with the steam voicing in the past. I have had to do return visits on some sets that Ineeded to be re-touched and I find it a bit hard to get an even response without having to do some needle work.  

Roger, The "B" model has a bad soundboard and my client knows that it is what should be done to both instruments. She wants them voiced anyway for the interim regardless of the malfunctioning components. You know how customers are and how they want improvements without having the cost for doing it right. I have been making NO promises to her about the tonal issues with chemical repairs other than my proposal for needed component restoration repairs.  She recently bought, a third, used 1921 model "O" with all original parts. She loves the tone, sustain and the quality of having the right hammers for the Steinway and I say to her again that it stands to reason for us to schedule the belly repairs. Also have briefed her that even with new hammers the instrument will only perform as well as the soundboard can. 

David, They look like Renner's to me but I'm not exactly sure. They could've used more of a full taper and some judicious arc molding removal remove some weight as the touch could use some evening improvements. I like your comments and I feel i should proceed with some small amounts at either end of the hammer strike string pattern and see what results I can get without soaking the life out of it. She has agreed to do the new hammers but needs to wait as there is a funds issue.

I appreciate everyone comments. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264

Original Message:
Sent: 12-25-2016 01:16
From: David Love
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

What kind of hammer and how heavy? If you have to use hammer softener it's the wrong hammer. Hammer softeners will make it softer and also duller with diminished ability to get high partial development. If you're lucky you'll get a dull thud.

Older, flatter boards need softer and lighter hammers with lots of resilience and spring not dull wads of dead felt.

Put on the right set of hammers and don't waste anymore time or money.

------------------------------
David Love RPT
www.davidlovepianos.com
davidlovepianos@comcast.net
415 407 8320

Original Message:
Sent: 12-24-2016 05:55
From: David Chadwick
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264
------------------------------

<grin> Sure, I'm certain the piano will care about whether the alcohol is a five-star brand!

This is a more subtle than usual iteration of the universal joke after I write about vodka voicing: "a drink for the piano, a drink for the tuner, a drink for the piano ..." etc.

Having no temptation at all to drink the piano vodka (it's not exactly Oregon pinot noir), I buy 190 proof bulk alcohol at the liquor store and cut it half and half with tap water, right in the dropper bottle. A fifth of the 190 proof usually lasts me several years, even when I use some to make great shellac from flakes. The low cost is another good result of not soaking whole hammers in the stuff.

Susan, 

After looking into more of the archives about this I am leaning more to the Vodka application. I suppose that a multi distilled brand would be preferable to the cheap stuff. Some 5 times distilled Grey Goose or Svedka perhaps. Also, doing some shoulder squeezing that I discovered from a Bill Spurlock class years ago, and also mentioned in a archived (Ballistol thread) should be employed to break the shoulder tension slightly.  I also use the Ted Sambell method of packing the string grooves slightly for massaging the attack a bit and not disturbing the shift strike point. As you mentioned, big changes are not welcome. This should put the voice my client is asking for and should last for a year before she is ready for the newer hammers. Thanks for your insights. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264

Original Message:
Sent: 12-26-2016 00:10
From: Susan Kline
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

David, I have found vodka voicing to be quite safe and controllable, if you start very slowly, feeling your way. You have to be aware that it is not totally reversible if you use a lot of vodka or if you repeat it several times.

Slowly, as in one or two drops right in the string grooves. See what you get. You just want to put a trace of cushion in the sound at piano and mezzo-piano, while leaving the harder core to kick in when playing louder. I don't trust big changes, and for me steam works way too fast and sinks too deep into the hammer.

I particularly like using a drop or two of vodka in the top octave, where the felt is thin and usually rock hard from juicing. It can temper that knife-edged hard as nails sound without harming the thin felt and without removing the focus and general brightness in the tone. I don't favor doing it over and over again, but you usually don't need to.

I use vodka when one short needle doesn't quite do enough. The combination of the two can give a lot of evenness at lower dynamic levels, without taking the focus from the sound, or gutting the louder tone.

There's a little trick Ted Sambell showed me once, in case a few notes are softer or fluffier than their neighbors. It has the virtue of being fast and temporary, but it can do a job in the short term. Choose a note softer or less focused than those around it. Press the string about halfway back with a finger across all three strings, firmly. Then with the other hand, play the note hard a half dozen times. It can put back some focus. One very nice thing about the technique is that the shift voicing isn't affected, as it is when a technician pulls the action out and whacks on the end of the hammer with the back of the voicing tool.

------------------------------
Susan Kline
Philomath, Oregon

Original Message:
Sent: 12-25-2016 15:15
From: David Chadwick
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

Thanks for all your replies!

Susan, I didn't plan on using any alcohol unless that is what is in the PianoTek product. I have filed the hammers lightly and didn't require removing too much material. I have heard of using Vodka for strike point voicing but I have not experimented yet. 

Wim, I have had some good success with the steam voicing in the past. I have had to do return visits on some sets that Ineeded to be re-touched and I find it a bit hard to get an even response without having to do some needle work.  

Roger, The "B" model has a bad soundboard and my client knows that it is what should be done to both instruments. She wants them voiced anyway for the interim regardless of the malfunctioning components. You know how customers are and how they want improvements without having the cost for doing it right. I have been making NO promises to her about the tonal issues with chemical repairs other than my proposal for needed component restoration repairs.  She recently bought, a third, used 1921 model "O" with all original parts. She loves the tone, sustain and the quality of having the right hammers for the Steinway and I say to her again that it stands to reason for us to schedule the belly repairs. Also have briefed her that even with new hammers the instrument will only perform as well as the soundboard can. 

David, They look like Renner's to me but I'm not exactly sure. They could've used more of a full taper and some judicious arc molding removal remove some weight as the touch could use some evening improvements. I like your comments and I feel i should proceed with some small amounts at either end of the hammer strike string pattern and see what results I can get without soaking the life out of it. She has agreed to do the new hammers but needs to wait as there is a funds issue.

I appreciate everyone comments. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264

Original Message:
Sent: 12-25-2016 01:16
From: David Love
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

What kind of hammer and how heavy? If you have to use hammer softener it's the wrong hammer. Hammer softeners will make it softer and also duller with diminished ability to get high partial development. If you're lucky you'll get a dull thud.

Older, flatter boards need softer and lighter hammers with lots of resilience and spring not dull wads of dead felt.

Put on the right set of hammers and don't waste anymore time or money.

------------------------------
David Love RPT
www.davidlovepianos.com
davidlovepianos@comcast.net
415 407 8320

Original Message:
Sent: 12-24-2016 05:55
From: David Chadwick
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264
------------------------------

<grin> Sure, I'm certain the piano will care about whether the alcohol is a five-star brand!

This is a more subtle than usual iteration of the universal joke after I write about vodka voicing: "a drink for the piano, a drink for the tuner, a drink for the piano ..." etc.

Having no temptation at all to drink the piano vodka (it's not exactly Oregon pinot noir), I buy 190 proof bulk alcohol at the liquor store and cut it half and half with tap water, right in the dropper bottle. A fifth of the 190 proof usually lasts me several years, even when I use some to make great shellac from flakes. The low cost is another good result of not soaking whole hammers in the stuff.

Susan, 

After looking into more of the archives about this I am leaning more to the Vodka application. I suppose that a multi distilled brand would be preferable to the cheap stuff. Some 5 times distilled Grey Goose or Svedka perhaps. Also, doing some shoulder squeezing that I discovered from a Bill Spurlock class years ago, and also mentioned in a archived (Ballistol thread) should be employed to break the shoulder tension slightly.  I also use the Ted Sambell method of packing the string grooves slightly for massaging the attack a bit and not disturbing the shift strike point. As you mentioned, big changes are not welcome. This should put the voice my client is asking for and should last for a year before she is ready for the newer hammers. Thanks for your insights. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264

Original Message:
Sent: 12-26-2016 00:10
From: Susan Kline
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

David, I have found vodka voicing to be quite safe and controllable, if you start very slowly, feeling your way. You have to be aware that it is not totally reversible if you use a lot of vodka or if you repeat it several times.

Slowly, as in one or two drops right in the string grooves. See what you get. You just want to put a trace of cushion in the sound at piano and mezzo-piano, while leaving the harder core to kick in when playing louder. I don't trust big changes, and for me steam works way too fast and sinks too deep into the hammer.

I particularly like using a drop or two of vodka in the top octave, where the felt is thin and usually rock hard from juicing. It can temper that knife-edged hard as nails sound without harming the thin felt and without removing the focus and general brightness in the tone. I don't favor doing it over and over again, but you usually don't need to.

I use vodka when one short needle doesn't quite do enough. The combination of the two can give a lot of evenness at lower dynamic levels, without taking the focus from the sound, or gutting the louder tone.

There's a little trick Ted Sambell showed me once, in case a few notes are softer or fluffier than their neighbors. It has the virtue of being fast and temporary, but it can do a job in the short term. Choose a note softer or less focused than those around it. Press the string about halfway back with a finger across all three strings, firmly. Then with the other hand, play the note hard a half dozen times. It can put back some focus. One very nice thing about the technique is that the shift voicing isn't affected, as it is when a technician pulls the action out and whacks on the end of the hammer with the back of the voicing tool.

------------------------------
Susan Kline
Philomath, Oregon

Original Message:
Sent: 12-25-2016 15:15
From: David Chadwick
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

Thanks for all your replies!

Susan, I didn't plan on using any alcohol unless that is what is in the PianoTek product. I have filed the hammers lightly and didn't require removing too much material. I have heard of using Vodka for strike point voicing but I have not experimented yet. 

Wim, I have had some good success with the steam voicing in the past. I have had to do return visits on some sets that Ineeded to be re-touched and I find it a bit hard to get an even response without having to do some needle work.  

Roger, The "B" model has a bad soundboard and my client knows that it is what should be done to both instruments. She wants them voiced anyway for the interim regardless of the malfunctioning components. You know how customers are and how they want improvements without having the cost for doing it right. I have been making NO promises to her about the tonal issues with chemical repairs other than my proposal for needed component restoration repairs.  She recently bought, a third, used 1921 model "O" with all original parts. She loves the tone, sustain and the quality of having the right hammers for the Steinway and I say to her again that it stands to reason for us to schedule the belly repairs. Also have briefed her that even with new hammers the instrument will only perform as well as the soundboard can. 

David, They look like Renner's to me but I'm not exactly sure. They could've used more of a full taper and some judicious arc molding removal remove some weight as the touch could use some evening improvements. I like your comments and I feel i should proceed with some small amounts at either end of the hammer strike string pattern and see what results I can get without soaking the life out of it. She has agreed to do the new hammers but needs to wait as there is a funds issue.

I appreciate everyone comments. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264

Original Message:
Sent: 12-25-2016 01:16
From: David Love
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

What kind of hammer and how heavy? If you have to use hammer softener it's the wrong hammer. Hammer softeners will make it softer and also duller with diminished ability to get high partial development. If you're lucky you'll get a dull thud.

Older, flatter boards need softer and lighter hammers with lots of resilience and spring not dull wads of dead felt.

Put on the right set of hammers and don't waste anymore time or money.

------------------------------
David Love RPT
www.davidlovepianos.com
davidlovepianos@comcast.net
415 407 8320

Original Message:
Sent: 12-24-2016 05:55
From: David Chadwick
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264
------------------------------

<grin> Sure, I'm certain the piano will care about whether the alcohol is a five-star brand!

This is a more subtle than usual iteration of the universal joke after I write about vodka voicing: "a drink for the piano, a drink for the tuner, a drink for the piano ..." etc.

Having no temptation at all to drink the piano vodka (it's not exactly Oregon pinot noir), I buy 190 proof bulk alcohol at the liquor store and cut it half and half with tap water, right in the dropper bottle. A fifth of the 190 proof usually lasts me several years, even when I use some to make great shellac from flakes. The low cost is another good result of not soaking whole hammers in the stuff.

Susan, 

After looking into more of the archives about this I am leaning more to the Vodka application. I suppose that a multi distilled brand would be preferable to the cheap stuff. Some 5 times distilled Grey Goose or Svedka perhaps. Also, doing some shoulder squeezing that I discovered from a Bill Spurlock class years ago, and also mentioned in a archived (Ballistol thread) should be employed to break the shoulder tension slightly.  I also use the Ted Sambell method of packing the string grooves slightly for massaging the attack a bit and not disturbing the shift strike point. As you mentioned, big changes are not welcome. This should put the voice my client is asking for and should last for a year before she is ready for the newer hammers. Thanks for your insights. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264

Original Message:
Sent: 12-26-2016 00:10
From: Susan Kline
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

David, I have found vodka voicing to be quite safe and controllable, if you start very slowly, feeling your way. You have to be aware that it is not totally reversible if you use a lot of vodka or if you repeat it several times.

Slowly, as in one or two drops right in the string grooves. See what you get. You just want to put a trace of cushion in the sound at piano and mezzo-piano, while leaving the harder core to kick in when playing louder. I don't trust big changes, and for me steam works way too fast and sinks too deep into the hammer.

I particularly like using a drop or two of vodka in the top octave, where the felt is thin and usually rock hard from juicing. It can temper that knife-edged hard as nails sound without harming the thin felt and without removing the focus and general brightness in the tone. I don't favor doing it over and over again, but you usually don't need to.

I use vodka when one short needle doesn't quite do enough. The combination of the two can give a lot of evenness at lower dynamic levels, without taking the focus from the sound, or gutting the louder tone.

There's a little trick Ted Sambell showed me once, in case a few notes are softer or fluffier than their neighbors. It has the virtue of being fast and temporary, but it can do a job in the short term. Choose a note softer or less focused than those around it. Press the string about halfway back with a finger across all three strings, firmly. Then with the other hand, play the note hard a half dozen times. It can put back some focus. One very nice thing about the technique is that the shift voicing isn't affected, as it is when a technician pulls the action out and whacks on the end of the hammer with the back of the voicing tool.

------------------------------
Susan Kline
Philomath, Oregon

Original Message:
Sent: 12-25-2016 15:15
From: David Chadwick
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

Thanks for all your replies!

Susan, I didn't plan on using any alcohol unless that is what is in the PianoTek product. I have filed the hammers lightly and didn't require removing too much material. I have heard of using Vodka for strike point voicing but I have not experimented yet. 

Wim, I have had some good success with the steam voicing in the past. I have had to do return visits on some sets that Ineeded to be re-touched and I find it a bit hard to get an even response without having to do some needle work.  

Roger, The "B" model has a bad soundboard and my client knows that it is what should be done to both instruments. She wants them voiced anyway for the interim regardless of the malfunctioning components. You know how customers are and how they want improvements without having the cost for doing it right. I have been making NO promises to her about the tonal issues with chemical repairs other than my proposal for needed component restoration repairs.  She recently bought, a third, used 1921 model "O" with all original parts. She loves the tone, sustain and the quality of having the right hammers for the Steinway and I say to her again that it stands to reason for us to schedule the belly repairs. Also have briefed her that even with new hammers the instrument will only perform as well as the soundboard can. 

David, They look like Renner's to me but I'm not exactly sure. They could've used more of a full taper and some judicious arc molding removal remove some weight as the touch could use some evening improvements. I like your comments and I feel i should proceed with some small amounts at either end of the hammer strike string pattern and see what results I can get without soaking the life out of it. She has agreed to do the new hammers but needs to wait as there is a funds issue.

I appreciate everyone comments. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264

Original Message:
Sent: 12-25-2016 01:16
From: David Love
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

What kind of hammer and how heavy? If you have to use hammer softener it's the wrong hammer. Hammer softeners will make it softer and also duller with diminished ability to get high partial development. If you're lucky you'll get a dull thud.

Older, flatter boards need softer and lighter hammers with lots of resilience and spring not dull wads of dead felt.

Put on the right set of hammers and don't waste anymore time or money.

------------------------------
David Love RPT
www.davidlovepianos.com
davidlovepianos@comcast.net
415 407 8320

Original Message:
Sent: 12-24-2016 05:55
From: David Chadwick
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264
------------------------------

<grin> Sure, I'm certain the piano will care about whether the alcohol is a five-star brand!

This is a more subtle than usual iteration of the universal joke after I write about vodka voicing: "a drink for the piano, a drink for the tuner, a drink for the piano ..." etc.

Having no temptation at all to drink the piano vodka (it's not exactly Oregon pinot noir), I buy 190 proof bulk alcohol at the liquor store and cut it half and half with tap water, right in the dropper bottle. A fifth of the 190 proof usually lasts me several years, even when I use some to make great shellac from flakes. The low cost is another good result of not soaking whole hammers in the stuff.

Susan, 

After looking into more of the archives about this I am leaning more to the Vodka application. I suppose that a multi distilled brand would be preferable to the cheap stuff. Some 5 times distilled Grey Goose or Svedka perhaps. Also, doing some shoulder squeezing that I discovered from a Bill Spurlock class years ago, and also mentioned in a archived (Ballistol thread) should be employed to break the shoulder tension slightly.  I also use the Ted Sambell method of packing the string grooves slightly for massaging the attack a bit and not disturbing the shift strike point. As you mentioned, big changes are not welcome. This should put the voice my client is asking for and should last for a year before she is ready for the newer hammers. Thanks for your insights. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264

Original Message:
Sent: 12-26-2016 00:10
From: Susan Kline
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

David, I have found vodka voicing to be quite safe and controllable, if you start very slowly, feeling your way. You have to be aware that it is not totally reversible if you use a lot of vodka or if you repeat it several times.

Slowly, as in one or two drops right in the string grooves. See what you get. You just want to put a trace of cushion in the sound at piano and mezzo-piano, while leaving the harder core to kick in when playing louder. I don't trust big changes, and for me steam works way too fast and sinks too deep into the hammer.

I particularly like using a drop or two of vodka in the top octave, where the felt is thin and usually rock hard from juicing. It can temper that knife-edged hard as nails sound without harming the thin felt and without removing the focus and general brightness in the tone. I don't favor doing it over and over again, but you usually don't need to.

I use vodka when one short needle doesn't quite do enough. The combination of the two can give a lot of evenness at lower dynamic levels, without taking the focus from the sound, or gutting the louder tone.

There's a little trick Ted Sambell showed me once, in case a few notes are softer or fluffier than their neighbors. It has the virtue of being fast and temporary, but it can do a job in the short term. Choose a note softer or less focused than those around it. Press the string about halfway back with a finger across all three strings, firmly. Then with the other hand, play the note hard a half dozen times. It can put back some focus. One very nice thing about the technique is that the shift voicing isn't affected, as it is when a technician pulls the action out and whacks on the end of the hammer with the back of the voicing tool.

------------------------------
Susan Kline
Philomath, Oregon

Original Message:
Sent: 12-25-2016 15:15
From: David Chadwick
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

Thanks for all your replies!

Susan, I didn't plan on using any alcohol unless that is what is in the PianoTek product. I have filed the hammers lightly and didn't require removing too much material. I have heard of using Vodka for strike point voicing but I have not experimented yet. 

Wim, I have had some good success with the steam voicing in the past. I have had to do return visits on some sets that Ineeded to be re-touched and I find it a bit hard to get an even response without having to do some needle work.  

Roger, The "B" model has a bad soundboard and my client knows that it is what should be done to both instruments. She wants them voiced anyway for the interim regardless of the malfunctioning components. You know how customers are and how they want improvements without having the cost for doing it right. I have been making NO promises to her about the tonal issues with chemical repairs other than my proposal for needed component restoration repairs.  She recently bought, a third, used 1921 model "O" with all original parts. She loves the tone, sustain and the quality of having the right hammers for the Steinway and I say to her again that it stands to reason for us to schedule the belly repairs. Also have briefed her that even with new hammers the instrument will only perform as well as the soundboard can. 

David, They look like Renner's to me but I'm not exactly sure. They could've used more of a full taper and some judicious arc molding removal remove some weight as the touch could use some evening improvements. I like your comments and I feel i should proceed with some small amounts at either end of the hammer strike string pattern and see what results I can get without soaking the life out of it. She has agreed to do the new hammers but needs to wait as there is a funds issue.

I appreciate everyone comments. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264

Original Message:
Sent: 12-25-2016 01:16
From: David Love
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

What kind of hammer and how heavy? If you have to use hammer softener it's the wrong hammer. Hammer softeners will make it softer and also duller with diminished ability to get high partial development. If you're lucky you'll get a dull thud.

Older, flatter boards need softer and lighter hammers with lots of resilience and spring not dull wads of dead felt.

Put on the right set of hammers and don't waste anymore time or money.

------------------------------
David Love RPT
www.davidlovepianos.com
davidlovepianos@comcast.net
415 407 8320

Original Message:
Sent: 12-24-2016 05:55
From: David Chadwick
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264
------------------------------

Susan, 

After looking into more of the archives about this I am leaning more to the Vodka application. I suppose that a multi distilled brand would be preferable to the cheap stuff. Some 5 times distilled Grey Goose or Svedka perhaps. Also, doing some shoulder squeezing that I discovered from a Bill Spurlock class years ago, and also mentioned in a archived (Ballistol thread) should be employed to break the shoulder tension slightly.  I also use the Ted Sambell method of packing the string grooves slightly for massaging the attack a bit and not disturbing the shift strike point. As you mentioned, big changes are not welcome. This should put the voice my client is asking for and should last for a year before she is ready for the newer hammers. Thanks for your insights. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264

Original Message:
Sent: 12-26-2016 00:10
From: Susan Kline
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

David, I have found vodka voicing to be quite safe and controllable, if you start very slowly, feeling your way. You have to be aware that it is not totally reversible if you use a lot of vodka or if you repeat it several times.

Slowly, as in one or two drops right in the string grooves. See what you get. You just want to put a trace of cushion in the sound at piano and mezzo-piano, while leaving the harder core to kick in when playing louder. I don't trust big changes, and for me steam works way too fast and sinks too deep into the hammer.

I particularly like using a drop or two of vodka in the top octave, where the felt is thin and usually rock hard from juicing. It can temper that knife-edged hard as nails sound without harming the thin felt and without removing the focus and general brightness in the tone. I don't favor doing it over and over again, but you usually don't need to.

I use vodka when one short needle doesn't quite do enough. The combination of the two can give a lot of evenness at lower dynamic levels, without taking the focus from the sound, or gutting the louder tone.

There's a little trick Ted Sambell showed me once, in case a few notes are softer or fluffier than their neighbors. It has the virtue of being fast and temporary, but it can do a job in the short term. Choose a note softer or less focused than those around it. Press the string about halfway back with a finger across all three strings, firmly. Then with the other hand, play the note hard a half dozen times. It can put back some focus. One very nice thing about the technique is that the shift voicing isn't affected, as it is when a technician pulls the action out and whacks on the end of the hammer with the back of the voicing tool.

------------------------------
Susan Kline
Philomath, Oregon

Original Message:
Sent: 12-25-2016 15:15
From: David Chadwick
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

Thanks for all your replies!

Susan, I didn't plan on using any alcohol unless that is what is in the PianoTek product. I have filed the hammers lightly and didn't require removing too much material. I have heard of using Vodka for strike point voicing but I have not experimented yet. 

Wim, I have had some good success with the steam voicing in the past. I have had to do return visits on some sets that Ineeded to be re-touched and I find it a bit hard to get an even response without having to do some needle work.  

Roger, The "B" model has a bad soundboard and my client knows that it is what should be done to both instruments. She wants them voiced anyway for the interim regardless of the malfunctioning components. You know how customers are and how they want improvements without having the cost for doing it right. I have been making NO promises to her about the tonal issues with chemical repairs other than my proposal for needed component restoration repairs.  She recently bought, a third, used 1921 model "O" with all original parts. She loves the tone, sustain and the quality of having the right hammers for the Steinway and I say to her again that it stands to reason for us to schedule the belly repairs. Also have briefed her that even with new hammers the instrument will only perform as well as the soundboard can. 

David, They look like Renner's to me but I'm not exactly sure. They could've used more of a full taper and some judicious arc molding removal remove some weight as the touch could use some evening improvements. I like your comments and I feel i should proceed with some small amounts at either end of the hammer strike string pattern and see what results I can get without soaking the life out of it. She has agreed to do the new hammers but needs to wait as there is a funds issue.

I appreciate everyone comments. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264

Original Message:
Sent: 12-25-2016 01:16
From: David Love
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

What kind of hammer and how heavy? If you have to use hammer softener it's the wrong hammer. Hammer softeners will make it softer and also duller with diminished ability to get high partial development. If you're lucky you'll get a dull thud.

Older, flatter boards need softer and lighter hammers with lots of resilience and spring not dull wads of dead felt.

Put on the right set of hammers and don't waste anymore time or money.

------------------------------
David Love RPT
www.davidlovepianos.com
davidlovepianos@comcast.net
415 407 8320

Original Message:
Sent: 12-24-2016 05:55
From: David Chadwick
Subject: Hammer Softener Applications

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

------------------------------
David Chadwick
Coshocton OH
702-205-6264
------------------------------

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

I'm not necessarily recommending exactly what you see in the video, but it is not unusual for me to do 20 or 30 jabs in each shoulder starting at 10 and 2 o'clock and working up towards the crown, angling the needles away from the "power triangle" as i approach the 12 o'clock position. It's hard work and I've been trying to develop my left hand technique more so that my right arm can have a bit of a break here and there. It's the "jack hammer" approach. But it's also traditional and controllable. 

André Oorebeek's book "the Voice of the Piano" is a great reference, if you haven't already read it. 

I find I get the most stable results by "overdoing" it, and then bringing it back up somewhat by ironing and pounding. It is very important to communicate with the client and tell them there is a playing in period and they will need to give themselves a few weeks settle the felt and get used to it. I also tell them that voicing, like tuning, cannot be stabilized in one appointment if it is in a neglected condition. Setting expectations is a big part of the job. Every piano is a work in progress. 

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits. 

I'm not necessarily recommending exactly what you see in the video, but it is not unusual for me to do 20 or 30 jabs in each shoulder starting at 10 and 2 o'clock and working up towards the crown, angling the needles away from the "power triangle" as i approach the 12 o'clock position. It's hard work and I've been trying to develop my left hand technique more so that my right arm can have a bit of a break here and there. It's the "jack hammer" approach. But it's also traditional and controllable. 

André Oorebeek's book "the Voice of the Piano" is a great reference, if you haven't already read it. 

I find I get the most stable results by "overdoing" it, and then bringing it back up somewhat by ironing and pounding. It is very important to communicate with the client and tell them there is a playing in period and they will need to give themselves a few weeks settle the felt and get used to it. I also tell them that voicing, like tuning, cannot be stabilized in one appointment if it is in a neglected condition. Setting expectations is a big part of the job. Every piano is a work in progress. 

Client teacher has two early circa 1900 Steinway grands (AA and B) with restored actions (and restrung) but with a different brand of action parts including hammers. Original soundboards with positive crown. Major complaint has been the tone production being one dimensional with very little dynamic available. Hammers are better suited for a newer instrument with higher tension capabilities. Needle voicing has been performed with little results and I am requested to re-voice about every three months. Replacement of S&S factory hammers has been discussed and will happen within a years time, however, i need to treat the current sets in the meantime. I have used Pianotek Hammer Softener on some Samick's in the past that had unbearably strident tone so I had soaked the hammer sets thoroughly with good results. I applied the product, return the next day, file hammers and voice for evenness. I am wondering if fully soaking this set will produce a gradual improvement or if a more strategic/judicial application of this hammer softening product will give adequate results. The job is an hours drive and I want to make repairs without multiple revisits.