[pianotech] Ringing on

[Ron Nossaman]

Laura Read wrote:
> I am working on an old Haines Bros. 5’ grand with lots of issues, 
> including significant cracks in the soundboard, but I don’t have a clue 
> why the sound is ringing on. I have regulated the dampers, which 
> apparently were replaced a few years back, but even when I put my hand 
> down on the strings I can’t stop the sound. Any ideas?

How about, the sound isn't coming from the strings you have 
your hand on? It's coming from somewhere, probably lower in 
the scale, where the dampers aren't working. Check the low 
tenor, particularly trichords, and the bass. Lay hands on 
strings until the noise stops, and fix the damper(s) where 
your hand is. Un-braided back scales will make really weird 
noises while a note is playing, but won't typically ring on 
for long after the dampers are down. My bet is it's the dampers.
Ron N