Yamaha Features,

Advantages &
Benefits
Introduction

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Features, Advantages
And Benefits (FAB)
This is where you learn how to become a more successful Yamaha
Piano Salesperson.
The FAB section discusses the features that make Yamaha pianos
the best total value available. It is designed to provide both the
novice and the experienced salesperson with an explanation of
each feature; its advantages and benefits; its specific need and a
way to demonstrate the feature.
Specifically, this section provides:
1. An explanation of problems in traditional piano
construction; what the feature is that Yamaha created to
solve these piano construction problems; a number of
advantages for these features; the benefits as they
relate to your customers and ideas on how to
demonstrate these features to your customers.

2. The features in this section were chosen by Yamaha

salespeople who found these to be the most important
features in the selling of Yamaha pianos.
3. This information is presented only in idea form.
Enhance your sales presentation by utilizing the
suggestions presented as you see fit.
Good luck and good selling!

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 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Preparation and Seasoning of Wood

• In the United States, most pianos will be subjected to the
effects of central heating and air conditioning.
• If a piano is not properly seasoned, it will likely develop
problems. For example, if the air is drier than the piano, the
piano will give up moisture and the lumber will shrink and
crack, the finish will deteriorate and the tuning stability will
suffer.
• Up to 80 percent of the weight of a freshly cut log is water.
Obviously, most of this water must be removed to meet the
environmental conditions where the final product will be
used; otherwise the piano will develop cracks or failed glue
joints.
• The process of removing this water is called “seasoning”.
• While each species of wood varies, the ideal Equalized
Moisture Content (EMC) in the United States, for seasoned
lumber, should be in range of 6 to 8 percent.

Demonstration
• Discuss the effects of inadequate seasoning.
• Discuss the vertical integration of Yamaha and the value of
being able to have complete control of all of the processes
involved with seasoning.
• Mention that the curing facilities at Yamaha are unmatched in
the world.

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Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha: Seasoned for Destination
• All Yamaha pianos destined for the United States market are
seasoned for the climate.
• “Seasoned for destination”means lowering the EMC of the
wood before manufacture to match the driest condition the
piano will experience in its final destination. It does not mean
that the pianos are individually seasoned for a particular city,
but for the driest condition in the entire destination (USA).
• Yamaha is an acknowledged leader in the field of wood
technology.
• Starting with dimensional lumber,Yamaha is in complete
control of wood processing. utilizing outside seasoning yards,
computer-controlled kilns and air conditioned factories to
ensure that the final product will withstand the climactic
conditions experienced during the pinao’s lifeteime.

Advantage
• The tuning stability, finish and overall musical integrity are
enhanced over the long life expected of a fine piano.
• This meticulous attention to detail creates a fine musical
instrument that is well-seasoned to provide years of playing
and listening pleasure.

Benefit
• Years of use and enjoyment from a totally seasoned musical
instrument.
• Peace of mind knowing that the piano was made specifically
for use in the United States, thus eliminating the problems
found in pianos not seasoned for this climate.

B-5
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Foundation for Piano Finish

• All finishes need a foundation. Paint has an undercoat, lacquer
has a sealer, etc.
• Other manufacturers apply polyester directly to the surface of
the piano, without a foundation.
• Wood is a live material that constantly changes size with the
changing climate.
• Polyester is a very stable product and weather changes have
no effect on its size. Therefore, applying a stable finish to a
constantly changing surface invites trouble. When the wood
changes in response to humidity, the polyester can crack or
lose adhesion with the wood.

Demonstration
• Yamaha supplies a sample of wood that shows the resin sheet
surfacer along with the polyester finishing procedure.

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Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Resin Sheet Foundation
• Yamaha utilizes a special resin and wood pulp formula to
create a sheet of material that provides a stable surface for the
polyester application.
• This resin sheet is applied directly to the wood and makes the
wood under the finish virtually impervious to atmospheric
changes.
• The integrity of the polyester finish is not subjected to
changes that could otherwise take place in the wood beneath
the finish.

Advantage
• Makes the polyester trouble-free.
• Because the resin sheet surface is perfectly flat (wood is not
flat, even with the finest sanding), the high gloss finishes
become mirror-like and do not show the waves and
unevenness that are seen on pianos on which the polyester
material is applied directly to the surface of the piano.
• The wood is virtually sealed from the atmosphere to protect it
from humidity fluctuations.
• The finish will not settle into the wood.

Benefit
• Years of enjoyment of the beauty of the instrument.
• Sense of security knowing the finish will stay beautiful
for years.
• Protection of the investment.
• High resale value.

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 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Piano Finishes
• Finish is needed for two reasons: to protect and to beautify.
• Varnish was the early finish. It had some good qualities, but
after time it would fail and cracks would form (e.g., alligator
cracking on old upright pianos).
• Lacquer was next in the development of finishes used on
pianos. It is still used for some finishes and it is still a very
good material for some types of finish.
• Polyester is the most recent material to be used on pianos. It is
a product of modern chemical technology that provides the
highest degree of beauty and protection available.
• A fine piano has a quality cabinet and deserves the most
beautiful and durable finish available.

Demonstration
• Show the mirror-like surface of the grand piano.
• Discuss the wavy surface of other piano makers.
• Discuss the permanence of polyester and its resistance to
damage of all sorts (including alcohol, cigarette burns and
fingernail polish remover).
• A point of purchase model is available from Yamaha in the
form of a square of wood that shows the construction, layer by
layer, of the Yamaha polyester finish.

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Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Polyester Finishes
• Yamaha uses only high quality polyester material, formulated
by Yamaha engineers.
• Yamaha uses polyester on all imported pianos that are either
high gloss or solid color.
• Polyester finishes are also being provided in selected Yamaha
produced pianos.
• Polyurethane is used on consoles and most studios.

Advantage
• Virtually indestructible, polyester protects against sun,
heat, spilled liquids and most other substances that tend
to destroy a piano’s finish.
• It is the only finish available for pianos that is truly
permanent.
• It is about ten times thicker and up to seven times harder than
lacquer. The extra thickness and strength of polyester not only
beautifies and protects the wood from scratches, but also seals
the wood to protect it from humidity fluctuation.

Benefit
• The beauty of the instrument lasts for years.
• Sense of security knowing the finish will stay beautiful
for years.
• Protection in the investment.
• High resale value.
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 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Lacquer Finishes
• There are only two reasons for applying finish to any piano:
to protect the piano and to make it beautiful.
• With the advent of lacquer in the mid-30s, a giant stride was
made in finishing materials. Now there was a practical, quick-
drying finish that made the wood look like a million dollars.
However, the early lacquers were very soft and provided only
minimal protection, even though the quality of the appearance
was greatly improved.

Demonstration
• Seeing is believing.
• Show the customer a Yamaha piano finished in lacquer.
(Any wood veneer satin finished grand piano).
• Remember to keep the pianos clean and polished.

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Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Finish Technology
• Yamaha has long been a leader in the technology
of finishing.
• Yamaha first acquires the best basic finish material, then
formulates it to meet the needs as specified.
• Next, the preparation of the piano, from sanding to cleaning is
carefully performed. The entire conveyer system of the
finishing line is designed, engineered and built by Yamaha.
Yamaha-trained workers apply the many and various coats to
create the luxurious finish. Hand rubbing and careful
polishing complete the procedure.
• In short, a Yamaha lacquer finish is the best on the market. We
use the best materials, we invest to create the best finish
possible and we pay attention to detail.

Advantage
• While Yamaha polyester finishes are the ultimate for
protecting the wood underneath, lacquer can produce the
most beautiful hand-rubbed wood veneer finish. By using our
own formulation, we are able to produce a very strong and
beautiful lacquer finish.

Benefit
• The pride and joy of owning the most beautiful piano
finish made.
• A sense of security knowing that the piano has a finish
that not only beautifies, but also protects the piano.

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 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Fallboard
• All pianos have a cover for the keyboard that is up when the
keys are uncovered for playing. It swings (or pivots)
downward to a horizontal position to cover the keys. Because
of the construction and mounting of the key cover, it will fall
down from its vertical position once it is moved the slightest
amount.
• In fact, the universal name for the keyboard cover in pianos is
the fallboard.
• A falling key cover can create damage to the instrument and
to any little fingers left in its way. Also, there is the terrible
noise created by the crashing fallboard. The fallboard falls at
the most inappropriate times – from having very small
children pull it down, to a pianist brushing against it while
turning pages.

Demonstration
• The simplest and most effective way to demonstrate the new
Soft-Close™ fallboard is to simply move it from the vertical
position toward the horizontal by pushing the cover toward
the closed position. Let it travel most of the way by itself, with
your hand completely away from the cover. A few practice
tries will show you how to get the best movement.

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Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Soft-Close™ Fallboard
• Realizing the problems created by the conventional fallboard
system, the engineers at Yamaha eliminated the pivot pins at
each end of the fallboard and replaced them with the new
Soft-Close™ fixtures.*
• Each of the fixtures contain a hydraulic device that is
activated as the cover is closed. This counter-balances the
weight of the fallboard and allows the cover to float down
rather than fall down.

Advantage
• The key cover no longer creates a danger to small children
or the pianist.

Benefit
• Peace of mind knowing that the possibility of physical harm
from the fallboard closing has been eliminated.
• Pride of ownership of the most up-to-date engineering on a
portion of the piano that has been a problem on all grands of
any make for more than 100 years.
• Satisfaction of knowing that damage to the piano caused by
the cover slamming down has been eliminated.

* Excludes GC1, GB1 and all verticals except the U Series.

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 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Top Board Hardware

• Top Boards (or lids) of grand pianos represent a challenge for all
piano makers.The lids are very heavy and are fastened to the rim
of the piano usually by nothing more than a couple of hinges.
• When a grand piano is moved, it is positioned on the flat side
of the rim, and the entire weight of the topboard is placed on
the hinges. Any bouncing while the piano is on the truck
amplifies the problem.
• Loose hinge screws and bent hinges are a common result
found on many pianos.
• The answer lies in the number, size and strength of the hinges
along with the possibility of using a Top Board Anchor Pin Set.

Demonstration
• Show the size and thickness of the hinges, the number
of screws used and be sure to show the customer the need for
an Anchor Pin Set.
• Show the strength and quality of the solid brass used
in the Yamaha Anchor Pin Set.
• Point out that some manufacturers do not use this
quality feature.

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Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Solid Brass Hinges,
Anchor Pin Set and Lock
• Yamaha uses heavy-duty solid brass hinges that are larger
and thicker than many manufacturers’.
• In addition,Yamaha uses an Anchor Pin Set unit as a
third point of fastening the top board to the rim.
• The Anchor Pin Set is also made of solid brass and is quite
substantial.

Advantage
• The size and strength of the hinges will keep the top
board firmly attached and will resist deformation and
loose screws.
• The use of an Anchor Pin Set increases the ability of the
hinges to hold the topboard in place and thus is almost a
necessity.
• All large instruments, regardless of maker, use this feature.
It is used on all Yamaha grand pianos.
• Solid brass can be easily polished to a brilliant shine even
after years and years of use.

Benefit
• Strength.
• Stability.
• Long life.
• Better resale value.

B-15
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Duplex Scaling
• With modern audio components, tonal character can be
changed by simply turning a knob.
• Pianos were developed long before electronics, and must
produce the sounds naturally. Early in the development of
pianos, the tone was weak and somewhat dull.
• Originally, any portion of a string not struck by the hammer
was muted by the insertion of felt strips.
• Improvement came with the advent of the duplex scale,
located in the upper two octaves of the keyboard.
• Pianos can now be designed with the treble strings divided
into three sections:
1. The speaking length struck by the hammer.
2. The two other sections not struck by the hammer, but
designed to be free to vibrate to enhance the upper
harmonic structure of the tone.

Demonstration
• The difference in sound between a piano with duplex scaling
and one without can be demonstrated by sounding a note in
the upper treble section.
• Then, place a finger on the front duplex area (between the
tuning pin and the capo bar) on the same string, sounding
the tone a second time. The second tone will be dull by
comparison.
• Point out the need for a graduated set of front duplex bridges
(as opposed to one straight plate bridge) to generate the
correct high harmonic vibrations.

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Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Duplex Scaling
• Yamaha uses all three string segments in our duplex
scale design to produce the richest tone possible. The
design is used in each Yamaha grand piano from the
GC1 through the CFIIIS.

Advantage
• Duplex Scaling utilizes all three sections of the strings.
• This adds upper harmonic strength to the basic tone, the
part that was missing in early piano construction.
• It makes use of those harmonics created by the two other
sections to make the sound richer, fuller and of more brilliant
character.

Benefit
• Enhanced musical enjoyment thanks to the fuller sound
created by duplex scaling.
• Higher resale value.

B-17
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Pinblock
• A pinblock is the part of the piano that holds the tuning pins.
It must:
1. Exert pressure on the tuning pin to keep it from slipping.
2. Allow the tuning pin to be rotated smoothly during the
tuning process.
• If the above conditions last for years and years, it is a
good pinblock.
• The experience of piano makers shows that:
1. The best material for pinblock construction is a very dense
hardwood (e.g., rock maple).
2. The pinblock must be constructed with a minimum of three
layers of hardwood, bonded together at cross-grains to hold
the pin.
3. To hold the tuning pin tightly over the years, the block must
also be protected from the problems caused by daily
humidity changes and from low humidity conditions
prevalent in centrally heated homes.

Demonstration
• A Humid-A-Seal Pinblock™ sample is available from Yamaha.
• Show the features to your customers.

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Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha’s Humid-A-Seal Pinblock™
• Yamaha created the exclusive Humid-A-Seal Pinblock* to fulfill
all of the requirements needed of a good pinblock.
• It uses three thick layers where most of the contact with the
tuning pin is made. The top and bottom layers are multi-ply and
serve as a seal to the center core of the pinblock.
• In addition, a very special glue is used. This glue is actually a
sheet of film impregnated with thermo-setting resin, and is
placed between all of the layers. The entire block, while under
pressure, is high-frequency glued. As the resin cures, a
permanent bond and a moisture barrier are created between all
layers. This seals the pinblock against humidity changes.
• The Humid-A-Seal Pinblock is found only in Yamaha pianos.

Advantage
• The Yamaha Humid-A-Seal Pinblock protects against daily
changes in humidity for better tuning stability.
• The Humid-A-Seal Pinblock contributes to our reputation of
fine tuning stability.

Benefit
• The tuning stability provided by the Humid-A-Seal Pinblock
gives the owner musical enjoyment between tunings.
• Yamaha’s reputation gives owners peace of mind knowing that
they own one of the world’s finest pianos.
• Increased resale value because of the Yamaha reputation for
tuning stability.
• Lower maintenance costs.

*Excluding GC1, GB1 and all upright pianos.

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 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Tuning Pins
• Tuning pins must create enough friction in the tuning
pinblock to keep the pin from slipping when the tension of
the string tries to unwind the pin.
• Obviously, the surface of the tuning pin is part of the solution.
• It has been proven that a smooth tuning pin (without any
surface treatment) is notably slippery and will not hold the
pin in place.
• All tuning pins must use some method that creates more
surface area.
• There are two procedures to do this:
1. To use extreme pressure and roll grooves (or threads) into
the pin.
2. To place each pin in a metal lathe and cut the threads
into the surface.

Demonstration
1. A cut-away Yamaha pinblock that contains cut-thread
tuning pins.
2. A loose Yamaha cut-thread tuning pin.
• You can get samples of other brands of tuning pins from
piano technicians or by ordering them from other piano
manufacturers.
• A close comparison will show the difference and the
superior quality of the Yamaha tuning pin.
• A major item for discussion with the customer is to bring
attention to the reputation Yamaha enjoys with the tuning
profession for ease of tuning and tuning stability.

B-20
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Cut-Thread Tuning Pins
• Yamaha creates cut-thread tuning pins in Yamaha factories.
• Yamaha controls the quality and precision of the entire
process.
• The Yamaha tuning pin is very uniform and the lathe-cut
surface is ideal for gripping the pin block.

Advantage
• The process used by Yamaha to make the cut-thread tuning
pins is precise. Each pin is uniform in diameter and surface
consistency from end to end and from pin to pin.
• Yamaha pianos are easy to tune.
• The tuning stability of Yamaha pianos is unsurpassed in the
piano industry.
• Ask any piano technician which brand of piano he/she prefers
to tune.

Benefit
• Enjoyment of listening to a very stable, finely tuned piano.

B-21
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Casting the Iron Plate (Frame)

• Traditionally, the iron frames (plates) have been cast by a
process that uses wet sand.
• An impression made in the wet sand by a pattern leaves a
cavity that is filled with molten iron to form the plate.
• Certain problems inherent with this method are:
1. The exactness of measurements and contours of the cavity
are compromised by the crudeness of the grainy, wet sand
that attempts to duplicate the pattern.
2. Uneven cooling caused by the extreme temperature
differences between the molten metal and the wet sand
create structural weakness.
3. Any decoration cast by this method looks crude and
imperfect.
• Yamaha eliminated these problems by developing the
Vacuum Shield Mold Process (V-Pro).

Demonstration
• Show the smoothness of the V-Pro casting in a
Yamaha piano.
• Have the customer feel the smoothness.
• Discuss the precision of reproducing the casting pattern.
• Point out the beauty of the decoration.

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Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Vacuum Shield Mold
Process (V-Pro)
1. A mold is created by utilizing the vacuum principle to
hold fine-grain dry sand firmly in place, which exactly
duplicates the pattern.
2. Molten metal is then poured into the mold. Because
the sand is not wet, the metal cools evenly rather than
unevenly from outside in as is the case with wet sand.
This improved cooling minimizes the problems of internal
stress.
3. Decoration and surface smoothness are greatly improved.

Advantage
• With the Vacuum Shield Mold Process (V-Pro),Yamaha can
cast plates that are stronger.
• The V-Pro plate is visually more appealing.
• The Yamaha V-Pro process ensures that the iron frame is
stronger and will thus further improve tuning stability.
• It allows dimensions and shapes to be produced more
accurately than ever before.

Benefit
• Owners can feel assured that they own a piano with an iron
frame produced by the best technology in the industry.
• It is one that is strong, beautiful in every detail and also
contributes to the finest sound of any piano.
• Increased musical pleasure between tunings.

B-23
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Plate Mounting
• Strings exert pressure on top of the bridge that is called down
bearing. The correct amount of down bearing is vital to
produce good tone; too little and the strings’ vibrations are not
transferred to the bridge, too much and the soundboard will
not vibrate freely. The amount of pressure on the bridge
depends on the position of the plate.
• Traditionally, plates were supported on wooden dowels.
Starting with the dowels too long, the worker would estimate
how much to cut off each dowel, remove the plate, trim the
dowel, replace the plate, and repeat the process until the plate
was in the correct position.
• Then screws are fit through the plate holes to press the plate
firmly against the wooden dowels. The pressure has a
tendency to compact the wood. Over a period of time the
screws need to be retightened. This results in further
compacting and lowering of the plate position.

Demonstration
• Obtain a plate mounting fixture to show to the customer.
• Experiment with a dental mirror placed through a hole in
the plate to show the old mounting method (competitive
products) compared to the new Yamaha mounting system.
• Point out:
1. The accuracy of adjustment with the new system.
2. The bolt locks metal to metal, thus there will be no loose
screws to tighten in the future.
3. That the position is permanent.

B-24
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Plate Mounting System
• The engineers at Yamaha created platforms* for the plate to sit
on that are made of metal, not wood.
• These platforms are on top of screw-type bases that fit into the
holes in the inner rim.
• If this fixture is turned clockwise, the platform is lowered, and if
turned counter clockwise, the platform raises.
• With all of the platform fixtures in place, and the plate resting
on them, the proper plate setting can be regulated by a tool
placed through the holes in the plate into the fixtures.
• Once all of the fixtures are correctly adjusted, machine bolts are
fitted through the holes and tightened into the fixtures to
secure the plate.

Advantage
• The ability to set the correct elevation of the plate is taken
from the area of guess work and placed into the realm of
precise regulation.
• With the new system, the machine bolt fastens the plate
(made of metal) to the fixture (made of metal) and there is
no wood to compress.
• The machine bolt stays tight, which is not the case with
traditional systems.

Benefit
• The improvement in tone quality brought about by having the
correct down bearing will increase listening enjoyment.
• The Yamaha Plate Mounting System of securing a metal plate to
a metal fixture with metal bolts will ensure that the plate will
always remain tight, and its position will not change.
1. This will increase tuning stability and maintain tonal beauty
over the years.
2. It will also reduce the maintenance costs of keeping a piano
at its peak.

*Excluding the GB1 and all upright pianos.

B-25
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Soundboard Material
• Since Stradivari, instrument makers have known that spruce
is the best material for the production and amplification of
tone. For that reason, the soundboards of the best quality
pianos have always been made of solid spruce lumber.
• The purpose of a piano soundboard is to amplify the tone
created by the vibrations of the tuned strings.
• Manufacturers have tried many shortcuts to reduce the cost in
building piano soundboards by using other materials or
laminating the board in a plywood fashion.
• All have fallen short of developing the sound that is possible
when using solid spruce. This is proven by the fact that the
soundboard in virtually every concert grand has been made of
solid spruce.

Demonstration
• A soundboard demonstration tool is available from Yamaha.

B-26
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Solid Spruce Soundboards
• At the Yamaha lumber mill and wood processing facility,
the finest spruce is quarter sawn. Less than 10 percent
of the total is selected and reserved for Yamaha piano
soundboards.
• Yamaha uses only solid spruce for all soundboards.

Advantage
• No other species of wood is as capable or as efficient
at amplifying fine quality musical sound as spruce.
• Solid spruce, rather than laminated spruce or poplar,
is the choice in all fine pianos for the best tone quality
and amplification of sound.

Benefit
• Musical enjoyment.
• The best tone and sustain.
• The customer can feel confident that the beautiful sound
of a Yamaha piano will last for a lifetime.

B-27
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Soundboard Ribs
• Piano soundboards are curved like the top of a violin.
This curvature, or crown, must be maintained or tone quality
will suffer.
• If a soundboard loses its crown it is only possible to properly
reconstruct it at great cost.
• While the fundamental purpose of the ribs is to help
distribute sound vibration across the grain of the soundboard,
ribs are also used to strengthen the total structure and
maintain the crown of the soundboard.

Demonstration
• The full length rib, and the notched liner it is glued into, are
both easily seen from the back of any Yamaha vertical piano.
• With a tilted mirror on the floor beneath a Yamaha grand
piano, the full length rib and notched inner rim can be shown.
• A soundboard demonstration model is available from Yamaha
that will show in a very convincing manner the value of
proper soundboard crown and the effect on tone when the
crown is lost.

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Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Full-Length Ribs
• Yamaha reinforces the crown in its soundboards by using ribs
that continue to the edge of the soundboard, and are glued
into the notched liner (or inner rim of a grand piano). This
anchors the ribs firmly to the structure of the piano and adds
strength to the crown.
• Some piano makers use shorter ribs that do not reach to the
edge of the soundboard. This leaves the perimeter of the
soundboard without support.
• The Yamaha method is more costly, but is justified by the
capability of providing greater support to the crown.

Advantage
• Reinforcing the crown ensures that tone quality will remain
for years and years.
• It improves tuning stability by maintaining the crown of
the soundboard even under the pressure of the strings
across the bridges.
• Increases the life of the piano’s performance.

Benefit
• Increased musical enjoyment over a lifetime.
• Increased value.
• Lower maintenance costs.

B-29
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Soundboard Shape
• Historically, the most beautiful sound created is by a stringed
instrument (i.e. violin, guitar or grand piano) that has a curved
shape rather than a rectangular shape.
• Grand pianos are designed to produce the best tone possible
and the familiar curved shape is necessary to accomplish this
result.
• This curved shape is further enhanced in some grands by
adding an acoustibar to the bass corner of the soundboard
(i.e. the Yamaha C6).
• In contrast, the design of vertical pianos mandates a basic
rectangular shape for the soundboard.
• This rectangular shape compromises the tonal quality in most
competitive pianos.

Demonstration
• Draw the rectangular outline of a standard vertical piano
soundboard.
• Draw in the two acoustibars found on the Yamaha
vertical pianos.
• Draw the shape of the grand piano soundboard over the
vertical drawing. (See the illustration below.)

B-30
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Acoustibar Construction
• Yamaha has engineered a design that adds two acoustibars
to the soundboards of all of its vertical pianos.
• Viewed from the back of a Yamaha vertical piano:
1. One acoustibar is placed at the top of the bass section in
the same place as the acoustibar in some grand pianos.
2. The other is at the lower portion of the treble section.
This acoustibar creates the effect of the familiar curved
shape of the grand piano on each Yamaha vertical piano.
(See illustration on page B-30).

Advantage
• Acoustibar construction utilizes the most efficient area of
the soundboard for the production of tone.
• The shape of the tone-producing portion on all Yamaha vertical
piano soundboards is similar to that found on all
grand pianos.

Benefit
• Enjoyment of improved piano tone in a vertical piano.
• Cleaner, clearer tone.
• Greater dynamic range.
• Increased sustain.
• Higher resale value.

B-31
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Soundboard Bridges
• The precision with which the bridges are made is one of
the major factors controlling the tone quality of a piano.
• Traditionally, the bridge was created in the piano by a
workman leaning over the edge of the piano and working
on a bridge blank already fastened to the soundboard.
• Hundreds of steps have traditionally been done by hand, such
as finding the correct point to place each of the pin holes,
drilling all the bridge pin holes, creating all the notches with a
chisel and mallet, etc.
• Since handmade bridges are made by individual workmen,
some handmade bridges have the chance of being better than
others.

Demonstration
• When demonstrating a grand piano, it is easy to point
to the precision that can be seen inside the grand piano.
• In addition,Yamaha supplies bridge samples to show
the customer.

B-32
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Precision-Notched
and Pinned Bridges
• Yamaha has created an automatic, computer-controlled
bridge-making machine where raw material is inserted at
one end and a perfect machine-made bridge emerges from
the other end.

Advantage
• All of the procedures necessary to convert a bridge blank
into a bridge are done perfectly with Yamaha’s equipment
and technology. Each notch is precisely cut and each bridge
pin hole is drilled at the correct position, precise angle
and exact depth. Coupled with the new plate mounting
system, precise down bearing also is assured.

Benefit
• Enjoyment of listening to a piano with a clear, rich,
singing tone.

B-33
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Soundboard Crown
• The primary purpose of a piano soundboard is to amplify the
tone created by the vibrations of the strings.
• It is impossible to create good piano tone without having the
proper crown (curvature) in a soundboard.
• One method used in manufacturing is to create a crown by
bending a flat sounding board over curved ribs and gluing it
while in that position.
• A problem created by this method is the possibility of
soundboard cracks, because the opposite side is literally
stretched when it is bent, or forced, over the curved ribs.

Demonstration
• A soundboard demonstration model is available from Yamaha
that will show in a very convincing manner the value of
proper soundboard crown and the effect on tone when crown
is lost.

Loss of crown will

dramatically affect piano tone.
B-34
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Permanent Crown Soundboards
• Yamaha utilizes a process that creates a permanent crown in the
soundboard and at the same time minimizes soundboard cracking.
• The process starts by super drying the soundboard to 4.5 percent
Equalized Moisture Content (EMC).
• This slightly shrinks the soundboard, and while it is smaller, it is
glued to flat ribs with an EMC of 6 to 8 percent. (Some crown is
created by the curved fixtures of the high-frequency gluing press.)
• The soundboard is glued into the piano and within the next few
days it will retrieve the moisture removed by the super drying
process and match the EMC of the rest of the piano. In so doing,
the soundboard tries to return to its original size, but cannot
because of the gluing process. The effect is that the wood
soundboard material fibers press against themselves in an effort to
get back to their original size and consequently create a natural
crown in the soundboard.

Advantage
• Construction that utilizes the method of bending the
soundboard over curved ribs to make the crown invites cracks
by comparison with the method used by Yamaha.
• Cracks in wood develop as the wood pulls itself apart.
The super drying technique used by Yamaha assures that cracking
is virtually eliminated.

Benefit
• Musical enjoyment.
• Best tone.
• Pianos can be thought of as having two lives:
1. Musical — the most important reason for purchasing a piano.
2. Physical — as a beautiful piece of furniture.
• With the superior assembly methods of Yamaha, the customer
can feel confident that not only will the piano last for years, but
the beautiful sound will last for a lifetime.

B -35
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Creating Quality Tone

• Superior piano tone is produced by the quality of the
materials, design and workmanship used in the
manufacturing process.
• Vibrating energy (tone waves) traveling along the grain of a
piece of wood will be lost when it reaches the end unless that
end is solidly fitted into an object to either accept the energy
or reflect it.
• Paths are needed for the energy to return to the soundboard.

Demonstration
• Play the Yamaha piano and listen to the beautiful sound and
long sustain.
• Discuss the fact that the Yamaha tone is sought after by
concert artists, music conservatories, universities, recording
studios and teachers.

B-36
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Complete Tone Collector System*
• The Yamaha grand piano creates its superior tone by using a
proven construction design utilizing a subtle principle of
acoustical collection and reflection.
• The Yamaha system starts under the piano with a metal
connector located between the center portion of the iron
frame and the end of each of the three radiating backposts.
• It connects the iron frame directly to the backposts and acts as
both a gathering point and an area of reflection for the tone
as it travels throughout the entire back structure.
• Dovetail joints provide better transfer of vibrations from the
backposts into the rim and back to the soundboard creating
the Yamaha Complete Tone Collector System.

Advantage
• The Complete Tone Collector System improves the piano’s
ability to create better tone and longer sustain.
• The backposts and iron frame of the piano, normally used
only for strength, now become part of the tone production
system.
• The Complete Tone Collector System acts as an acoustical
mirror that gathers and reflects the sound waves back toward
the soundboard. As a result, the tonal energy remains in the
piano longer for a fuller, richer and sustained sound.
• The basic structure of the piano is made stronger by
connecting the backposts to the iron frame and through
the dovetail joints into the rim.

Benefit
• Richer, fuller and sustained sound adds to the listening
pleasure for the player as well as the listener.

*Excluding the GB1.

B-37
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Backpost to the Rim Connection

• In piano construction, backposts have two functions.
They provide:
1. The necessary strength (with the plate) to support the
20 or so tons of tension placed on the piano by the tuned
strings.
2. Paths for the vibrations to travel in order to return to
the soundboard.
• The longer these vibrations stay in the piano, the more power
and length of sustain of the piano.
• The strength of the joint that holds one end of the backpost to
the rim and its energy (vibration) interface are vital factors.
The method of joining the backpost to the rim used by cost-
conscious manufacturers is accomplished by gluing the flat
end surface of the post to the rim and using screws or dowels
to help hold it in place. This butt joint has strength when the
two parts are being pushed together, but has little strength to
hold the two parts from pulling apart. The small amount of
contact between the two surfaces of a butt joint allows for a
minimum energy interface. This is further decreased as
separation occurs.
• A dovetail joint improves strength and, in addition, increases
the surface area with more end grain contact to provide better
interface for the transfer of vibrations back to the soundboard.

Demonstration
• Most people are aware of dovetail joints in fine furniture.
• Make reference to quality furniture.
• Draw an outline of a dovetail joint.
• Place a mirror under the piano.

B-38
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Dovetail Joints
• Yamaha uses the dovetail joint in all models of grands from the
GB1 to the C7, both in acoustic and Disklavier grands. As part
of the Complete Tone Collector System, each radiating backpost
is fitted into the rim using the dovetail joint.

Advantage
• Greatly increased strength in the basic construction
of the piano.
• Better transference of vibrations between rim and
posts because the contact is very solid and the contact
area is greater.
• As part of the Complete Tone Collector System, the
dovetail joint helps to provide longer sustain of the tone
and better resonance.
• Maintains soundboard crown.

Benefit
• The owner will benefit for years and years because this unique
construction contributes to a superior tone and a longer,
useful life.
• The customer will know that they have the strongest
construction design available—another sign of a fine piano.

B-39
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Piano Casters
• Pianos are heavy, weighing more than most furniture that
does not have to be moved. The casters need to be rugged,
yet not detract from the beauty of the piano. The wheels
should roll easily, and the stem should swivel quickly in any
direction in order to keep from damaging carpet or floors.
• Grand pianos present a particular problem. They are the
heaviest, yet they have only three casters.
• Some pianos are fitted with relatively small iron casters
(sometimes with brass plating) that are not strong enough or
large enough to properly do the job.
• Because the life of a fine piano is a long one, it deserves to be
outfitted with casters that are functional, yet appealing to the
eye.

Demonstration
• Obtain a Yamaha grand piano caster.
• After talking about the quality features found on the caster,
place the caster in the hand of the customer. Let the
customer feel the weight, and see the finished quality.
• Point out the look of the Yamaha grand leg and caster
combination, and discuss how some makers use casters of
steel (with and without brass plating) that do not allow for
smooth and easy moving.
• You might push on the corner of a Yamaha grand to prove
your point.

B-40
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Piano Casters
• The Yamaha casters make moving the piano easier, and also add
beauty to its appearance.
• Larger and more massive than many other casters, the solid
brass wheels and wheel brackets of Yamaha grand casters are as
well engineered and finely finished as any other part of the
piano.
• Recent improvements in the Conservatory series include a
slightly curved wheel face and improved bearing surfaces for
easier moving.

Advantage
• Easier movement of the piano.
• Larger casters look better in proportion and appearance with
the rest of the piano’s style.

Benefit
• Appreciation of how much easier it is to move.
• Less damage to floor surfaces.
• Pride in the beauty of the total piano.
• Peace of mind in knowing that if this much attention to detail
is given to the caster, that same attention to quality can be
found in the rest of the piano.

B-41
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Action Rails
• Traditionally, all of the hundreds of parts of a piano action
have been fastened to rails that have been made of wood.
• Because of the natural expansion and contraction of wood,
piano actions change with the weather.
• The screws would loosen due to the wood breathing.
• Some of the problems that loose screws can cause are:
1. Loss of power, which can affect overall tone.
2. Parts shifting out of alignment.
3. The expense of having to frequently regulate the action.

Demonstration
• Use the Yamaha Action Model to show the various metal
action rails and related component parts.

B-42
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Extruded Aluminum Alloy
Action Rails
• Yamaha engineering developed a unique extruded aluminum
alloy action rail (bearing a Yamaha patent) that is one of the
greatest innovations in the last 100 years for improving a
piano action.

Advantage
• All Yamaha extruded aluminum alloy action rails are
impervious to weather changes and solve the problems
caused by wood rails. The usual fluctuations in wood rails
that affect touch, caused by periodic weather changes, are
eliminated.
• Screws remain tight, which maintains better alignment of all
action parts.
• Allows stable, long-lasting action regulation.
• The extruded aluminum alloy action rails endure during the
life of the piano.

Benefit
• Years of increased playing pleasure on a stable and
responsive action.
• Less service needed to keep the piano in top playing
condition.

B-43
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Piano Keyframes
• In a grand piano, the keys are mounted on the keyframe.
It is a structure of three rails:
1. The front rail
2. The balance rail
3. The back rail
• The keyframe is fitted to the top of the keybed, and must
touch the keybed at all points of contact.
• If any of the three rails warp even slightly, the action is moved
and the touch is affected.
• Noise also can be a problem as the force of striking a key
moves the keyframe downward from its warped position.
• A change of only a few thousandths of an inch can create
problems with the action’s performance.

Demonstration
• Yamaha provides a sample keyframe.
• Hand it to the customer while pointing out the advantages
and features of the anti-warp keyframe.

B-44
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Anti-Warp Keyframes
• Yamaha has engineered a superior keyframe that is used in all
GB1, GC1, C, S and CFIIIS model grand pianos.
• The fundamental difference between the old and the new was
to create the rails by laminating strips of different types of wood
together. In this manner, as one piece of wood tries to warp, the
other pieces laminated into the construction keep it from
moving.
• The one-piece rails of the past have a tendency to warp
regardless of the care that was given to the choice of material
or its seasoning.
• Until recently, this superior keyframe construction was found in
only the expensive S series and CFIIIS concert grand pianos.

Advantage
• The keyframe remains very stable throughout the daily
and seasonal changes in the weather.
• The rails are laminated in such a way that the key pins in
the front rail and the balance rail are fitted into hardwood
for superior holding qualities.
• The touch of the action remains stable for a longer period
of time.

Benefit
• Touch remains stable.
• The potential for warp-related noise is eliminated.
• With stable regulation, the player can play easier and better.
• More enjoyment in playing.

B-45
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Keyframe Pin, Guide and Striking

Point Adjuster
• The action in a grand piano has to be free to move because of
the need to use the left, or shift, pedal.
• At the same time, it is critical that the hammers hit the strings
at a precisely predetermined spot on the string. Piano sound
is greatly influenced by where the string is struck. Even a
change as small as moving the hammer 1/16th of an inch can
ruin the piano’s tone.
• The action is positioned by a pin (the keyframe pin) in each
side of the keyframe. These pins work in guides found in the
keyblocks.
• In most pianos, only these two pins hold the action in
alignment for the strike point.

Demonstration
• Remove the fallboard, then remove the keyblock screw.
The keyblock can then be removed to show the reinforced
keyframe pin (on the keyframe), and the keyframe pin guide
(on the keyblock). Have the customer feel the slickness of the
guide. (The striking point adjuster cannot be seen unless the
action is removed from the piano).

B-46
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Reinforced Keyframe Pin,
Guide and Striking Point Adjuster
• Yamaha has solved the problem of aligning and securing the
action in the correct place by adding a striking point adjuster
and improving the pin and guide.
1. The striking point adjuster: Regulation fixtures found in the
bass and treble dags that set the strike point.
2. A reinforcement for the keyframe pin: A metal plate that
fits around the pin and is screwed to the keyframe.
Pressure on the pin is absorbed by the plate.
3. An improved pin guide: The pin guide is made of material
that is permanently lubricated, fully adjustable forward and
back, with a down pressure adjustment for wear.

Advantage
• The striking point adjuster accurately regulates the position
and securely holds the position once it is set.
• The plate around the pin reinforces and strengthens the pin
and keyframe against damage.
• The improved pin guide is made of a strong, space age
material that is self-lubricating. It also includes a down
pressure adjustment, as well.

Benefit
• Listening pleasure is increased. If the striking point is correct,
the tone is at its peak.
• Maintenance costs are less. The strength of the components
and the permanence of the adjustment ensure less
maintenance.
• Increased sense of security because of the combined strength
of all three Yamaha features listed.

B-47
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Key Travel
• The term key travel is used to describe the distance a key
moves from its point of rest to the point of being fully
depressed.
• The only part of the piano that the musician touches is the
key (and pedals), and the distance it moves should be the
same from piano to piano. Otherwise the musician has to
continually adapt to each piano played.
• The accepted standard is the distance the keys move on
concert grands.
• Vertical pianos, especially smaller models, present a problem.
The depth of the cabinet dictates that the key will be short.
Shorter keys must travel farther to do the job to accomplish
the work of longer keys unless all other parts of the action are
engineered to make up for their size.
• Generally, piano manufacturers do not concern themselves
with building vertical pianos having the same key travel as
grand pianos because of the extra effort and cost involved.
• Therefore, many vertical pianos have non-standard key travel.
• Students and advanced musicians alike suffer when playing on
a piano with a non-standard key travel.
• Discuss the fact that all Yamaha piano keys travel the same
distance, whether upright or grand piano models.

Demonstration
• Have the customer feel the touch on various Yamaha pianos.

B-48
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Uniform Key Travel
• Yamaha designs all grand and vertical pianos to have the
same key travel.
• This conforms to the accepted industry standard that uses the
concert grand as its criteria.

Advantage
• Regardless of size, type or model of a Yamaha piano, the
keyboards will always feel the same.

Benefit
• The Yamaha piano owner/musician can go from playing
on Yamaha vertical pianos to playing on grand pianos
(and vice versa) without having to readjust his/her touch
on the keyboard.
• This is especially important for the beginning student.

B-49
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Weighted Keys
• One of the most important prerequisites of any good piano is
uniformity of touch across the entire keyboard. It is important
that regardless of which key is played, the feeling to the
pianist must be the same. (The keys should have equal down
weight/pressure).
• Several characteristics of any grand piano action dictates that
each key would require a different amount of pressure to play.
• For example, the bass hammers are large and heavy, while the
treble hammers are small and light. Without providing
correction, playing the piano would require more effort in the
bass than in the treble.
• Any unevenness of touch is compensated for by balancing the
action. (This means inserting weights into the keys at the
appropriate positions.)

Demonstration
• Show the position of the various weights on a Yamaha action
model.
• Talk about the importance of up weight as well as down
weight.
• Have the customer feel the evenness of any Yamaha
piano keyboard.
• Discuss the acceptance of the Yamaha touch by concert artists,
music conservatories, universities, recording studios, teachers
and students.

B-50
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Balanced Action
• Each key of a Yamaha grand piano is individually tested
and measured for the corrections needed to obtain uniform
down weight pressure.
• Yamaha goes one step further and also corrects for up weight.
• The musician pushes the keys down, but the keys
alone must return to their starting position when the
finger is removed.
• For example, proper execution of a trill requires uniform
upward speed from both keys.

Advantage
• Yamaha actions play correctly and uniformly.
• This balancing helps ensure a lifetime of superior touch
and control across the entire keyboard.

Benefit
• Allows the pianist to perform at maximum technical
capability. An action that is not correctly balanced will always
interfere with the technique of the pianist. This condition
becomes more frustrating as the pianist’s technique develops
and improves.
• Permits the performer a greater dynamic expression and
development of technique.
• Adds to the pleasure of playing.
• As stated above, the bottom line is an acceleration of the
“learning to play curve”for beginners.

B-51
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Piano Hammers
• During the 1800s, animal hide glue was the only glue available
for making piano hammers. This glue was not very strong as a
bonding agent.
• To improve the bond, manufacturers clamped the felt to the
hammer wood in addition to using the hide glue.
• The clamps took the form of a loop of wire inserted into two
small holes previously drilled through the hammer and twisted
tightly on the other side.
• Later an improved T-clamp was devised. It was inserted through
one hole drilled in the hammer with the legs of the clamp bent
back on the opposite side (like a cotter pin).
• As better glues were developed, the clamp was eliminated in
hammer construction by most manufacturers.
• Yamaha has determined that the clamping action of the fastener
has a beneficial effect on hammer construction by creating a
firmer base to the hammer.
• In other words, even though the fastener is no longer necessary
to help the glue joint, it is still a valuable feature because it
contributes to quality tone production.

Demonstration
• Point to the T-clamp on any exposed Yamaha hammer.
• Be sure to show both sides of the clamp and explain the
clamping action of the device.

B-52
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Reinforced T-Clamped
Hammers
• All 88 Yamaha piano hammers are made by Yamaha and contain
a T-clamp.
• This procedure securely presses the felt against the hammer
wood, and at the same time, compresses the felt in that area into
a firmer base.

Advantage
• This extra step of quality construction not only assures a permanent
glue bond, but in the process creates a better hammer.
• Better tone is produced and voicing will last longer with the
Yamaha T-clamp construction.

Benefit
• Better tone.
• Voicing lasts longer.
• More enjoyment in listening.
• Higher quality of musical sound.

B-53
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Center Pins
• Many of the major components in a piano action utilize action
center pins. This includes the jacks, the wippens, the hammer
shanks and parts of the damper system. Each of these parts
pivot on their center pins much like a hinge moves on a hinge
pin. It is necessary to have the fitting tight enough for the
parts to do their function for a number of years without
becoming loose, and yet be free enough to move with great
ease and speed.
• Traditional center pins create special circumstances:
1. Because the center pin wears in with initial playing, it must
be very tight at the time of manufacture. This results in
most pianos having to go through a “breaking-in”process.
2. It is impossible for the manufacturer to anticipate the
amount of over-tightness needed, therefore those pianos
usually play rather stiffly at first, and then need attention
after the breaking-in period.
• Another problem with the traditional center pin is that after it
has been in use for a number of years, its surface becomes
rough and accelerates wear on the bushing cloth.

Demonstration
• Point out the various advantages of the new Yamaha center
pin over traditional pins, and how they stand up after many
hours of playing.

B-54
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Center Pins
• The touch of the Yamaha piano remains correct because of the
action center pin surfaces.
• The new process creates a mirror-like surface that is smooth
and friction-free.

Advantage
• The Yamaha plating process results in a tighter fit, less friction
and less wear.
• Yamaha pianos are ready to play and need no breaking-in
period.
• The end result allows the action to keep that “like new”feeling
for years to come.
• The surface of a Yamaha center pin does not wear and become
rough, even after years of use.

Benefit
• The Yamaha owner will enjoy a smoother, more responsive
action from the time of purchase.
• Joy of playing is assured.
• Maintenance costs are reduced.

B-55
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Action Jacks in Vertical Pianos

• The speed with which the jack can return to its original
position is the determining factor that controls how fast
the piano can play.
• The vertical piano action, unlike the grand, has no repetition
lever to assist the jack’s return.
• Thus, the eventual speed of repetition for a vertical piano is
controlled by the shape of the jack itself. The top edge of the
jack must be smooth and curved ever so slightly so that the
jack will not “drag”as it returns to its original position. Also, the
sliding surfaces must be without undue friction.
• Because of the uneven nature of wood, even with the best of
woodworking machinery, it is impossible to make all 88 jacks
exactly the same.
• After 33 years of experience and success with the A/S Resin
Jack,Yamaha has found that the Polyoxymethylene (POM)
Resin Jack’s low coefficient of friction enhances performance.

Demonstration
• On the Yamaha upright action model, show the POM
Resin Jack.

B-56
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Polyoxymethylene (POM)
Resin Jack
• Yamaha found that the best way to create the perfect jack is by
the injection mold process.
• After testing many materials, POM resin was chosen as the
special material for the jacks.
• POM has a low coefficient of friction—superior to graphite.
• Jacks made of wood required graphite glued in place, and the
speed of repetition slows down as the graphite wears off.
• POM resin does not need graphite.

Advantage
• The Yamaha vertical piano repetition is faster because of the
POM Resin Jack.
• The POM Resin Jack was introduced into Yamaha upright
pianos in 1998.

Benefit
• Musicians can enjoy a smooth, responsive action for years of
trouble-free playing enjoyment.
• Yamaha vertical piano owners can be assured of having the
fastest repetition available in any vertical piano, regardless of
make or price.
• Accelerates learning to play the piano.

B-57
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Key Material
• Piano keys must be made of a material that is strong enough
to withstand the hardest blow.
• Piano keys must be light enough to change direction rapidly
from being depressed to returning to a normal position. For
example, if the material used was steel, there would be more
than adequate strength, but the weight would be so heavy
that repetition would be ruined. Balsa wood would be
excellent as far as lightness is concerned, but would break on
the first hard blow.
• Many companies use sugar pine or basswood for key materials
as the best compromise between cost and function.

Demonstration
• Show the spruce key found on all Yamaha pianos by use of the
Yamaha Action Model.

B-58
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Spruce Keys
• Yamaha uses spruce for all of its keys. Spruce is very light and
possesses a very high ratio of strength to weight. This is the
reason it was used in construction of aircraft. It is ideal for key
construction, even though its cost is greater than either sugar
pine or basswood.

Advantage
• Yamaha keyboards respond quickly—providing fast repetition
for the most intricate piece of music.
• Yamaha keyboards withstand heavy use over years of
fortissimo passages.

Benefit
• The added enjoyment of a responsive keyboard.
• Peace of mind that the keys will last a lifetime.
• Pride in ownership of an instrument renowned for its
responsive action.
• Increased resale value.
• Durability for the life of the piano.
• Lower maintenance costs.

B-59
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Key Buttons
• Each key in the piano is an independent unit, held in position
by a key button. The key button consists of a piece of wood, in
the center of which is a rectangular hole. The two sides of the
rectangular hole are lined with felt called bushing cloth.
• To keep the key from wobbling from side to side as it is being
played, the size of the space between the two pieces of
bushing cloth must be just larger than the diameter of the
balance rail pin.
• Traditionally, the button is made of a soft wood, like sugar
pine or basswood. As the piano is played, (for example during
a glissando passage where the musician’s fingers slide along
the keyboard), the side pressure that the keys exert against the
balance rail pins compresses the soft wood behind the
bushing cloth. The holes in the key buttons become larger,
and the keys begin to feel wobbly, sloppy and worn out to the
musician.

Demonstration
• If the piano action is exposed, have the customer try to make a
depression with his/her thumbnail in the key button after
successfully accomplishing the same feat in the soft wood of
the key.
• Use the action model if the piano action is not exposed.

B-60
Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Hardwood Key Buttons
• Yamaha uses expensive hardwood for each and every key
button on all piano models.

Advantage
• Yamaha key buttons resist compression, thus maintaining the
correct fitting for years.
• Yamaha keys feel like new even after years of service.
• Less key flex at the fulcrum (at the balance rail).

Benefit
• A more stable feel of the keyboard.
• Years of trouble-free playing enjoyment.
• The fun of playing a piano that feels good.
• Pride in ownership of an instrument with this kind
of quality.
• Increased resale value.

B-61
 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Key Cover Materials

• It is an indisputable fact that many musicians prefer the touch
of real ivory to that of the plastic keytops found on most of
today’s pianos.
• Ivory combines a prestigious image with unique performance
characteristics still cherished by most professional artists. It has
the right degree of moisture absorption, friction and hardness
characteristics to give the piano its incomparable touch.
• Aside from the environmental impact connected with
the use of ivory, it has some inherent shortcomings.
• It is brittle and easily damaged; it discolors and cracks
with age and when subjected to an extreme temperature
variation. And it is expensive to replace when damaged.

Demonstration
• After presenting this information, have the customer feel the
keyboard of a C series or larger (with Ivorite™) and a GB1 or
GC1 series grand (with acrylic resin).

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Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Ivorite™ Keys
• After more than 20 years of laboratory research,Yamaha
developed a new white key covering called Ivorite.
• Ivorite is installed in all C1 through C7 Series, S4, S6
and CFIIIS Grands.

Advantage
• Ivorite has the same performance characteristics as
real ivory, such as moisture absorption, non-slip resistance
and hardness.
• In addition, it offers greater durability over the years.
• Ivorite-covered keys visually present the traditional image and
touch of real ivory.

Benefit
• The customer will enjoy years of additional playing pleasure
with the traditional look and feel of ivory, without the
drawbacks normally found in ivory.
• Owning a piano with Ivorite keys provides enjoyment,
prestige and image.
• Increased resale value.

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 Explanation
B – Features and Benefits

Muffler Pedal (Practice Function)

• There are times when a piano is too loud, even if played very
softly. Practice time is a good example, when repetitious
playing is not acceptable while other activities are occurring
in the home.
• Normally a piano is not able to play soft enough to fulfill
these situations.

Demonstration
• Become an actor and perform a little skit for the customer.
Start by reminding the customer about the usual promise
elicited from the child that “they will practice every night”if
the piano is bought.
• Play some Hanon exercises as though Johnny was practicing
at home. As you play, mention this happens to be the same
time Mom is on the phone and Dad is watching Monday
Night Football. Build the volume of your playing, and the
volume of your story to a high level. Stop playing, and in a
quiet voice say,“With a Yamaha piano, Johnny can press down
the middle pedal and a piece of felt will be lowered between
the hammers and the strings and tranquility will return to the
household.”Resume playing to demonstrate the effect of the
muffler pedal on your performance.

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Feature

B – Features and Benefits

Yamaha Muffler Pedal Function
• The middle pedal on most Yamaha vertical piano models*
lowers a piece of felt between the hammers and the strings.
When practicing, the hammers strike the felt, and the
volume of the sound is lowered without altering the touch
of the piano.
• This is especially useful when a student is practicing and does
not wish to disturb other family members.

Advantage
• Piano playing and other household activities can occur
simultaneously.

Benefit
• Everybody in the family can continue with their own activities
as the pianist practices.
• Peace of mind knowing that others are not being disturbed.
• The student’s musical progress will not be hampered because
of inconsistent practice times.

* M460, M560, P660, T118, T121, UI, U3,YUS1,YUS3, and

YUS5. The YUS5 mute function is activated with a hand lever.
The middle pedal is a sostenuto pedal. On P22s the middle
pedal is bass sustain.

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