Hi Mike, Yamaha V process plates have proven to have been a big winner in the manufactuting process for 2 reasons, 1. It has the the tightest diamentional standard in the industry. 2. It takes less than a hour to manufacture, vs 24hrs or more with a sand poured plate. Yamaha CF's and S series plates are made in the traditional manner, sand pour. Some Samick and Young Chang's have Renner action PARTS, built to their specs, I would not consider these actions a renner action because of iffy action frames and sloppy assembly. and low quality weight off. Most Renner actions that I have seen have Renner Stuttgart Germany stenciled on the action rail. Service support over two generations could be important to you. Parts replacement etc. Yamaha would be a clear winner. Dealer support in your area is another important consideration, how long has he been handling the product line? Too many times I have seen good quality pianos sold by poor quality dealers that use the cheapest technical support personel. Under these conditions a good quality piano may not be a good purchase. Dealer prep and after sales service will count for 50% of your satisfaction. If you are trying to justify spending less and hoping to get the same quality I will be suprised if you will be satisfied over the long term. To shop for a good quality grand tech, you could start with your local university music dept, or the local concert hall. >Some of these arguments that you give for Yamaha seem to the same as what I >heard from the Yamaha salesman I spoke to. If the Vacuum Shield Mold >Process is so superior why aren't the Steinways, Bosendorfs, M&H, Bechstein, >etc. using it also. These companies could not afford the capital investment for the the equipment. >The Petrof dealer would say that they use many of the same manufacturing >techniques these other manufactures use. Choose the piano you like. If money is a driving force reconize it and live with it. If quality is your primary consideration cry a little and spend the extra. The difference will be insigificant over 30years. No answers, just some pointers. P.S. I am a proud Baldwin Yamaha dealer and Technician, my choices was made based on quality and dealer support. Very unbiased. (Grin) Roger > > Roger Jolly Baldwin Yamaha Piano Centre Saskatoon and Regina Saskatchewan, Canada. 306-665-0213 Fax 652-0505
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