How each key plays with precision, dynamics, & evenness depends on how well the piano’s action is regulated.
Comprehensive tuning restructuring
Complete regulation work
Total tonal enhancements
Reset action parts & recondition felts for precision
Adjust damper timing
Thorough interior and exterior cleaning
Reduce friction and fix sticking keys
Lubricate keys (makes them easier to play)
Pedal adjustments
An example of Randy changing a piano’s key height.
9 out of 10 times, fixing a piano costs much less than buying a used one, and far less than a new one.
Vertical pianos cost between $6,000 and $20,000 while grand pianos range from $8,000 to over $100,000. If your piano is structurally sound and still has good components in the action, I can restore its tone & playing performance with a series of comprehensive adjustments.
However, if your piano is old and has worn-out parts, it might be better to consider refurbishing, restoring, or replacing it.
When You Need To Regulate
When the keys feel difficult to play
When many keys are slow or sticking
When the piano has lost its ability to play dynamically
How Often Should You Regulate?
In the first 5 years of a piano’s life after leaving the factory, then once every 8 to 10 years +/-. One of the following options should suffice as a regulation for your piano:
concert prep
mid-level regulation
complete action regulation
What is done in a Concert Prep or Complete Action Regulation?
A concert prep takes focused adjustments to the action parts behind the keys to further elevate them from a nice performing piano to one with sharpness it may never have seen before. A typical concert prep takes about 1 day or less.
A regulation takes a piano that is playing poorly, addresses the wear and tear items, and completely changes how dull the performance is to back to excellent playing standards. A typical regulation takes about 3 days.
How Long Will A Regulation Last?
A concert prep or complete action regulation can last for 5 to 10 years longer. Much of it depends on the quality of the materials, the amount of use the piano receives, & how consistent the humidity surrounding the piano is.
Schedule A Regulation Consultation
A regulation consult is free with any tuning service or if you’re between tuning intervals or have never used us, the fee is ½ of a standard tuning, or $112.50 + tax.