The grand piano strings are not being fully muted

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maxim_tuner
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The grand piano strings are not being fully muted

Post by maxim_tuner »

https://youtu.be/BLlBkFp_zx0
  • In the video, we can see and hear that after striking the string with the hammer, the damper does not completely mute the sound coming from the strings. The damper mechanism consists of a felt wedge that should tightly wedge between two strings there, falling on one unison key. However, this is not happening, and we can clearly hear the sound when the key has already returned to its static position. What is the reason for this?

    The damper mechanism consists of a wooden 'the damper head' with 'the damper felt' located at the bottom. In this case, the felt has a wedge shape. Inside' the damper head', there is 'the damper wire' inserted through 'the damper guide rail', passing between the two strings, and should be securely fixed to 'the damper wire block' using 'the damper wire screw'. In the video, when we slow down the process of 'the damper head' falling on the string, we can see that it oscillates from side to side, which is not acceptable (see with 00:25). Therefore, we can confidently say that over time, 'the damper wire' has become loose, and this needs to be fixed.

    Here are the steps to resolve this issue:

    1 Remove the grand piano action from the grand piano.
    2 Use a screwdriver to tighten 'the damper wire screw', but first, raise 'the damper head' with your fingers, making sure nothing obstructs the free movement of 'the damper wire'.
    3 Then, carefully inspect 'the damper wire block' and ensure that the end of 'the damper wire' is at the same level as the well-functioning ends of the adjacent wires. Secure 'the damper wire' by tightening 'the damper wire screw' using a screwdriver.
    4 Test it. Pull 'the damper head' up with your fingers and release it sharply downwards. If it falls onto the strings and the sound instantly stops, then you have done everything correctly. Also, check the other 'the damper heads' similarly.
    5 Insert the piano action back into the piano and test it using the keys only now.
    If you follow these steps, it should work properly.

    Warnings and additional notes:
    In some cases, it may be impossible to achieve the necessary fixation of 'the damper wire' in 'the damper wire block' due to wear in the hole, causing 'the damper wire screw' to rotate. In this case, you can insert a small shim made of cardboard or plastic there.
    The most dangerous part is removing the grand piano action from the grand piano. Please watch a video tutorial on 'how to remove the piano action properly'. Otherwise, you may damage the hammers, etc. If you are not confident, it is best to seek professional assistance.
    Good luck!
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