old Beckstein

[Linda Stråhle]

Hello Dennis,

I have a friend who replaced the old wippens to modern ones and also new capstans. It was an old one from 1910 concertsize. 

The result was good, but personally I think the old system works just fine. The old one with the wippen attached to the keys makes the action very fast to play. And the friction is lower. But it all depends on what the musician wants. 

My friend got help from Renner and the operation with putting on capstans to the keys was easy. There were no need for building it up with wood blocks. It was quite long capstans though.

This instrument was repaired for a pianoteacher and he is very pleased with it. ( except of the false beats in the treble..typical Bechsteinproblem.. )

friendly greetings

Linda Stråhle
Sweden


From: "Dennis Johnson" <johnsond@stolaf.edu>


Subject: old Beckstein


> 
> 
> Has anyone ever tried to modify the old rocker style capstan/whippen
> connection with short sticker to the modern capstan which would
> then accommodate new Renner replacement whippens?  I'm considering whether
> or not to accept such an action job on an old 1880's Beckstein Grand with
> that system, and not really sure I'm interested if I can't use all new
> parts. It would probably involve adding a small wood block on top the key
> to mount the new capstan, but ultimately the geometry should not be
> affected if done correctly, and would be much improved and more reliable
> with the modern capstan and parts. This is for a serious player who seems
> committed to the instrument. We already talked about putting the money
> toward something new and different. 
> 
> 
> thanks,
> 
> 
> Dennis Johnson 
> 
>