Disklavier

Good evening, everyone.

In a message dated 5/2/03 11:23:16 AM, Steve writes:

<< I have been a member for the last month or so in an attempt to learn the
fundamental benefits of disklavier prior to purchasing one for my
family.  I think that a disklavier with a silent feature would be ideal
for my family as it would allow for silent practice without impinging on
the rest of the family's activities.>>

The silent feature is extremely helpful in this regard.
 
<<Are there other issues or features that I should consider or seek out?>>

If anyone in the family is taking lessons and is at an elementary or early 
intermediate level, the MIDI accompaniment disks that coordinate with most of 
the commonly-used teaching books are extremely helpful and fun.

If you are adventurousome and anticipate using a computer interactively with 
the instrument--such as reading the music off of the computer screen--a grand 
or smaller upright will accommodate a laptop or computer monitor more 
conveniently than a tall upright.
 
<<Also, where would you suggest I look for a good "pre-owned" piano of
this sort?  I am actively looking but have found little success.>>

I don't have any specific advice other than to consult the local dealer who 
may have a previous customer who is ready to buy a newer or larger model.
 
<<I have come across a lot of discussion for and against purchasing a
Japanese piano not specifically built for North America.  Is this a real
issue as Yamaha asserts?  Or is it merely a marketing ploy as many other
piano professionals (and sellers of such pianos) claim. >>

In the early 1960s, Yamaha learned the hard way that wood has to be dried to 
a lower moisture content in order to stand up to the low levels of humidity 
found in typical American homes at certain times of the year. This process of 
curing the wood adds to the expense, and Yamaha therefore does not cure the 
wood to the same low moisture content for all areas of the world.

I have not owned a gray market Yamaha piano, and so I have no personal 
experience to share in this regard. I can tell you, however, that based on 
stories I have heard from other customers, the features of the Disklaviers 
made for Japan may not be identical to those made for the US, getting a 
manual in English may be difficult or impossible, and Yamaha Corporation of 
the US will not provide knowledge support or parts.

Regards,
PianoBench