[CAUT] Hammer Suggestions

[Paul T Williams]

Rex,

A few years ago I rebuilt an old Steinway K (with the dredded double 
flange system) and I used Ronson's on it.  The customer didn't want 
bright, but she still wanted volume.  Of course they needed to be doped 
with hardener quite a bit way down low and middle shoulder areas, but the 
end result was clear and powerful without being offensive even in the shop 
with cement floors, metal cabinets, etc. Another choice could be the 
Renner blue ultra lights.  They are very easy to work with. Or, Wally's 
Natural Felt hammers are great as well.  They, too were very easy to work 
with and forgiving if you over-do something. It's all in what you like to 
do in prepping.  I don't know many hammers that simply just get hung and 
go.  Good luck!

Best,

Paul




"Rex Roseman" <rosemanpiano at netzero.net> 
Sent by: caut-bounces at ptg.org
03/23/2007 10:46 AM
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[CAUT] Hammer Suggestions






I have been asked to quote on replacing the hammers in a Steinway Upright 
(45) serial 512*** that is used in a dance studio. I am seeking advice and 
opinions on two things. 
 
1.       The dance studios are big new rooms lined with mirrors, windows 
and cement block walls with dance floors and sheet metal roofing, meaning 
that there is not a particle of sound absorption to be found. The reverb 
rate is measured with a calendar. What advice can anyone give about the 
best sound to try to get from the piano? I had originally thought of a 
bright piercing sound that would cut through the sonic clutter, but after 
talking with the accompanists, they like the fuller, rounder sound of the 
new Boston 118’s that are in some of the other studios. (The Boston’s’ 
have never been voiced and are as is from the dealer.) I am interested in 
hearing from anyone who has had experience working in this type of extreme 
environment.
2.       Considering the information above, what brand of hammer could be 
suggested for this piano. I am not keen on getting hammers from Steinway 
as at a recent PTG meeting, their head tech guy said that the upright 
hammers are delivered needing extensive needling to be usable. From my 
studies, I am not sure that this is best for hammers or something that I 
want to commit myself to doing if there is a better hammer out there to be 
had.
 
Thank you for your help.
 
Rex Roseman
University of Akron, School of Dance
 

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