muffler felt for grands

[Tom Cole]

Larry,

I've seen (on some of the gray markets) the muffler device that Yamaha
made for their domestic grands. The construction is not easy to describe
in words, but basically there is a rod suspended just below the damper
guide rail which is operated by a cable (with a "T" handle located where
you might expect the hood release in a car). There are arms, two per
each section, projecting away from the rod, normally in the 6 o'clock
position, that snap to the 9 o'clock position (looking from the treble
end) when the T handle is pulled. Felt pieces are attached to the arms
and are supported by a framework, possibly wire but I couldn't tell, so
that there is no sagging of the felt.

I've been meaning to take some measurements of this system because it
works so well. Since Yamaha is not making them anymore, it might be
worth it see if we can come up with a reasonable facsimile. I work for a
dealer that sells gray market Yamahas so I should see one soon.

Tom Cole

Larry wrote:
> 
> I'm sorry to bug you guys again about this, but I checked with Yamaha and
> they don't produce a practice strip for grand pianos anymore, and I don't
> see one in my catalogues.  To refresh your memories, the piano is a C3 in a
> small apartment.  I don't think adding foam between the beams of the piano
> will be enough, although I have done this to moderate the volume from
> grands in small rooms.  The piano is already voiced quite soft for a Yamaha
> so I really don't want to go any softer.  Any ideas before I start inventing?
> 
> Larry Beach, RPT
> Vancouver, BC