Disklavier

Hi Folks
Contributing to the discussion about the relative merits of the Pro versus
the standard DKV (MkIV and lesser models), I can offer the following. About
two years ago a friend of mine purchased a C7 Disklavier Pro. I purchased
his C7 MKII XG Disklavier, circa 1995.

Naturally I was interested in hearing the difference between them.
Initially I had to spend some time adjusting my DKV (the MkII XG), also
calling in the services of a piano technician (Yamaha trained). As a result
of this work, my DKV came alive. Previously, under the ownership of my
friend it had lost a lot of its capabilities. In other words, I figured I
now had the MKII XG playing as well as it could.

I compared a number of files, mainly those from the Yamaha e-comp. My
friend had the XP version, I used the standard versions. The main
difference I heard was the ability of the Pro to play soft notes with great
sensitivity. Key aftertouch (I think) is recorded, along with an enhanced
range of velocity values. As well, the Pro can play very soft notes without
any drop out. With some files, the sound is almost magical.

But, and remember the pianos in both DKVs I'm comparing are almost
identical, when I play the same file on my instrument, I am by no means
disappointed. My DKV can also handle soft notes very well, due to fine
regulation of the action and a lot of time spent in setting up the
playback, via the control box.

I certainly agree that the Pro is a superior instrument, but with proper
regulation and adjustment, a standard DKV is perfectly satisfying. That is,
the difference in the performance level is not significant enough for me
spend the extra dollars for the Pro. Instead, I spend time (and money)
keeping my now rather old MKII DKV in fine adjustment. The Pro, due to its
technology, is probably not as fussy, and will most likely play beautifully
even if the action is out of regulation.

As well, the record system in my DKV has key and hammer sensors. Some
instruments only have key sensors. Therefore, when a comparison is made
between the record systems of the Pro and non-Pro models, I think it's
important to realise that there are at least two versions of the record
system. I have always found the record system in my DKV to be pretty accurate.

Peter Phillips

From Peter Phillips, Electronic Editorials NSW. Phone (02) 9773 4734,
mobile 0418 407 607, fax (02) 9773 9943. Website at
http://members.optushome.com.au/eleced/index.htm


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