<html> Hi Mike,               GC strings can rescale with a heavier core wire, and fudge the tension.  It works as the best compromise. Regards roger At 02:17 PM 11/6/02 -0500, you wrote: <blockquote type=cite class=cite cite>    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></html>