[pianotech] Kawai Grand w/Steinbuhler 7/8 Custom Keyboard

[Tom Servinsky]

The lengths  of the natural and sharps are identical as a normal keyboard. 
Only the width is narrowed.
Because the keyboard is shorter, larger cheek blocks are installed to fill 
the gap at both ends.
The other most noticable aspect is the flare of the back end of the keys, as 
the capstans have to  line up with the wippen cushions. I would say the 
flare is close to a 30 degree outward slant op both the bass and high treble 
end.
In order to maintain structural integrity of the key itself, the keys are 
made up of 1/8" laminates (horizontally glued), resembling like pinblock 
stock.
All of the keys are cut out with a CNC machine to the tightest of tolerances 
possible. Plus he takes great care in at adhering to the key ratios in order 
to have a good regulatable keyboard.
Tom Servinsky
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Mark Schecter" <mark at schecterpiano.com>
To: <pianotech at ptg.org>
Sent: Saturday, January 01, 2011 3:34 PM
Subject: Re: [pianotech] Kawai Grand w/Steinbuhler 7/8 Custom Keyboard


Hi, Keith.

Thanks for the pix - very interesting. I get that the octave span is 7/8. Is 
the length of the sharps and naturals as original? Is the width of the sharp 
tops 7/8? Do you have a link to the manufacturer?Thanks.

-- Mark Schecter



On Jan 1, 2011, at 11:17 AM, "Mr. Mac's" <tune-repair at allegiance.tv> wrote:

> List,
>
> Some of you might already be aware of this extraordinary keyboard. 
> However, it was a first for me. I was alerted by a current customer as to 
> the sale of this piano in a store where I live, so I had to go and see 
> first hand. Very remarkable and professional design to say the least.
>
> http://pianostuff.kamcam.com/techgoodies/pianos/kawai/hp.html
>
> Happy New Year!
>
> Keith McGavern, RPT