<HTML>In a message dated 11/6/02 1:18:23 PM Central Standard Time, mkurta@adelphia.net writes: <BLOCKQUOTE TYPE=CITE style="BORDER-LEFT: #0000ff 2px solid; MARGIN-LEFT: 5px; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 5px">Esteemed Colleagues:     A local dealer has asked this question:  He has a customer with a 1986 Yamaha U1 studio piano.  Ever since the piano was new, bichord bass strings have been breaking on a regular basis, now about every sixth time it's played.  This problem was addressed under warranty by replacing all the bass strings, but it still occurs, even today.  The player admits to being very vigorous.  The strings break between the pin and pressure bar, leaving a 1 inch stub.  Hammers?  Regulation?  Strings?  Any thoughts?  Thanks.....     Mike Kurta </BLOCKQUOTE> As you said, the player is very rigorous. In my opinion, the player has to accept the responsibility. He/she is not playing the piano it was meant to be played. I wouldn't be surprised he/she had the same problem with other pianos, and perhaps was talked into buying the U1, with the salesman claiming he/she wouldn't break those strings, since it is a bigger piano. You can reduce dip, or increase let off to just before the string. You can also disengage the right pedal. But if he/she is that rigorous a player, he/she will complain about the lack of power. Wim </HTML>