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26 April 2021

Maintenance and care for hybrid instruments

Taking care of your hybrid piano : essential !

You have purchased a hybrid piano (Kawai, Casio, Yamaha Avant-Grand, etc.) to address the noise issues caused by the sound of an acoustic piano for your roommate or neighbors. Congratulations! However, since your digital instrument still utilizes an acoustic piano action, its maintenance should not be neglected.

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Many hybrid instruments feature nearly complete acoustic piano action to offer musicians the sensation of playing a real piano and full control over musical expression. Only the hammerheads, strings, and dampers are absent. Instead, the action triggers samples that have been recorded from grand acoustic instruments (such as Yamaha CFx, Bösendorfer, etc.). While the instrument has integrated speakers, musicians can also use headphones to preserve a peaceful environment.

 

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Effects of Time and Wear

Just like with an acoustic piano, the effects of time and repeated playing will impact the felt under the keys and various wool and leather components that may compress over time. These volume losses cause the mechanism to lose its factory settings, making the piano less responsive and enjoyable to play. It may become more difficult to produce soft tones, repeat notes quickly, and some hammers could start to bounce uncontrollably.

 

Required Maintenance

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Similar to the maintenance performed on an acoustic piano, the typical maintenance for a hybrid piano involves lifting and leveling the keyboard, polishing and lubricating the key pins, and thoroughly reviewing all adjustments (hammer blow distance, let-off etc). Once the regulations are made, the keyboard and pedals will be calibrated. Finally, if needed, the internal computer will be updated.

Photos: Nicolas Lessard, PTM

 

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