An addendum to a recent thread: Yesterday I had one of those exhilarating experiences that make you remember why you're in this trade. It was a 2-year-old Steinway M, beautiful and much-loved, customers who aren't the world's greatest pianists but enjoy their piano. Back when they were waiting for it to be delivered, the dealer had put a Boston in their house. The husband made the comment, "I'm just a little disappointed that this one doesn't have the zip that the Boston did." I played the Steinway for a bit, and listened, and had to agree. It sounded nice. But it didn't sound outstanding, sort of dull from top to bottom. A clear case for voicing. So we made two appointments, one to apply keytop-in-acetone solution, and one 36 hours later to even things out. They trusted me with their baby, and although they put no pressure on, I felt the self-applied kind. I went back and read all the recent info on the forum, particularly Steve Schell's. Used 2 keytops in 1 qt. acetone. Applied liberally, waited an hour, applied again where it seemed called for. The next appointment, the woman greeted me at the door with, "Wow! Is it different!" And I sat and played it, and after only a little evening out with a single needle, it was and is one of the most glorious sounds I've heard. I had a hard time leaving! The customers were thrilled, and I felt like the piano was now up to its potential. I recently put Abel hammers on a B with great results. But there is no sound like Steinway hammers voiced to their fullest. I have renewed awe for the brand, and am very thankful for all the information that you people put on this forum! It is a great resource. Mark Graham
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