The Final Step in Building a Piano- Adjustment (Regulation, Tuning, Voicing)

The Operations Involved

Regulation

• The string impact mechanisms (keyboard and action) are adjusted, making sure that everything operates properly.
• The adjustable areas of the action are regulated so that all 88 keys operate smoothly and with a uniform touch. In addition, the overall touch is adjusted in accordance with the requirements of the performer as well as the design of the action.
• The operation of the pedals is checked for correct movement.

Tuning

• The tuning pin, around which the end of the string is coiled, is adjusted using a tuning hammer until the proper tension is on each string. Each string then has obtained the correct and desired pitch.

Voicing

• A major portion of the tone, volume and overall sound balance is controlled by adjusting the hardness (or density) of the hammer heads.




Major Points

• Yamaha's precise adjusting techniques are one of the major characteristics of the overall quality of Yamaha pianos.
• The adjustment process is carried out in the order of: Regulation, Tuning, and Voicing. However these three stages interrelate to produce the final sound. The overall balance is a most important factor.
• These three operations come at the very end of the piano crafting process. Sufficient time is taken so that no detail, no matter how fine, is allowed to escape. The voicing process in particular, is carried out by highly trained personnel, very sensitive to the structure of piano sound.
• Yamaha's philosophy concerning piano sound requires that we continually solicit the opinions of pianists and musicians all over the world. Their requests and opinions concerning touch and tone are considered, and where possible, incorporated into the building and/ or the adjustment process. At Yamaha, we are always striving to improve the overall quality of the finished product.
• The original design of a piano and the fidelity with which that design is to be followed determines the time required for adjustment process, and finally determines the overall quality of the finished piano.
• Every Yamaha piano receives the utmost attention to detail and care during manufacture and the adjustment process. To retain its touch and tone, it should receive adequate service. A minimum of two tunings and adjustments per year after purchase (preferably more), are required to keep it in the best condition.
• Yamaha has founded The Piano Technical Academy, devoted to training technicians and piano engineers, and is always striving to improve their overall technical abilities.