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 <table width=100%> <tr valign=top> <td width=40%>"Rex Roseman" <rosemanpiano@netzero.net> Sent by: caut-bounces@ptg.org 03/23/2007 10:46 AM <table border> <tr valign=top> <td bgcolor=white> <div align=center>Please respond to College and University Technicians <caut@ptg.org></div></table> <td width=59%> <table width=100%> <tr valign=top> <td> <div align=right>To</div> <td><caut@ptg.org> <tr valign=top> <td> <div align=right>cc</div> <td> <tr valign=top> <td> <div align=right>Subject</div> <td>[CAUT] Hammer Suggestions</table> <table> <tr valign=top> <td> <td></table> </table> 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