<HTML> <HEAD> <TITLE>Re: [CAUT] Hamburg Steinway</TITLE> </HEAD> <BODY> What is the life of a soundboard?           I recall some techs believe soundboards lose most of their crown and resiliency after about 40 years due to string pressure.  (Even without humidity damage).   If true,  a twenty year old piano should have deducted 1/2 the cost of replacing the soundboard plus all action and cosmetic work needed to restore to new condition.  If plates, finishes, cases, legs and other componets have a lifespan, that should be deducted also.  My guess is it would end up in that 60=70% range. -Mike <BLOCKQUOTE>Paul   The "as is" appraised value for this piano would be about 60 - 70% of a brand new piano, less the anticipated cost of replacing the part, etc, including case work.   Wim <HR ALIGN=CENTER SIZE="3" WIDTH="100%">See what's free at AOL.com <a href="http://www.aol.com?ncid=AOLAOF00020000000503"><http://www.aol.com?ncid=AOLAOF00020000000503></a> . </BLOCKQUOTE> </BODY> </HTML>