David Love/Voicing tool Recommendation

[Delwin D Fandrich]

----- Original Message -----
From: "David Love" <davidlovepianos@earthlink.net>
To: <pianotech@ptg.org>
Sent: February 16, 2002 7:28 AM
Subject: Re: David Love/Voicing tool Recommendation


> .... There are times, however, when a tensioned hammer is appropriate and
> I have used the Renner Blue on many occasions.


David,

What do you mean when you say 'a tensioned hammer?' If you're referring to
the relative hardness and density of the Renner Blue hammer, this does not
really come from having the felt under 'tension.' These characteristics are
more a function of the moisture content of the felt, the amount of pressure
on the press and the heat of the side cauls. All of which tend to reduce the
tension in the finished hammer in much the same way that ironing a wool suit
with steam, pressure and heat take out the wrinkles and set the fabric flat
and wrinkle free.

I would be more inclined to call the Steinway hammer (before all of the
sanding and lacquering), the Ronsen hammer and the Isaacs hammer tensioned
in that there is still some amount of tension in the wool fiber after
pressing.

Del