Let-off

[James Ellis]

I believe we will all agree that 3-mm is too much let-off for any
performance grand.  If we now combine that with drop that is set too low,
the pianist won't have much control while playing soft passages.  The note
will either be too loud, or else silent.  Where do I like the drop set?  As
high as I can keep it and still not get any re-strikes on pp or ppp.  As
for checking, I think 1/4 inch is too high.  It will produce maximum speed
of repetition, but it will also diminish the volume of the fast repeat
because the hammer stroke will be shortened.  It's a trade-off situation.
Also, with checking as close as 1/4 inch, the backcheck comes dangerously
close to the hammer tail when playing FF or FFF.

My opinion, Jim Ellis