Consider the evolution of stereo speakers. The cones used to be of paper. Now they use high rubber, very stiff alloys for frames _and_ cones, liquid cooled coils, graphic equalizers, and all sorts of new technology and materials. A homogeneous material like a cross grained carbon fiber material of the proper thickness at center and rim, crowned and ribbed to support the strings and allow flexibility, with proper loading and other things I don't know about, could make one hell of a piano. The velocity of sound and its dispersion throughout the material are more likely important than the material itself. Just some things to think on. Newton
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