As a contribution to the long-standing comparison of Ampico and
Duo-Art reproducing piano systems, I have just posted two videos
of selections from Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker".  Both videos show
recently restored instruments, captured with the same microphones
and recording equipment.  The Duo-Art version is here:

  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jK-xoOL1ShQ
 

and the Ampico version is here:

  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QybqhcPRHBI
 

As a restorer and a fan of both systems, I am not inclined to pick
one above the other.  Hopefully the videos show that the performance
capabilities of both systems are quite similar, when in reasonably
well-maintained condition.  But the differences are also clear,
including first the instruments available with each system (in this
case Mason & Hamlin vs. Steinway).  Second is the pneumatic and
expression control logic ("power division" vs. positive air pressure
regulation, "lock and cancel" vs. continuous level control,
theme/accompaniment control vs. bass/treble control).

Third is configuration and maintenance requirements (i.e., drawer
mount vs. "through the keyboard").  And fourth is clearly the different
musical selections, arrangements and recorded artists available for
the two systems (in this case, Frank Sheridan in February 1929 vs.
Percy Grainger in October 1924).

Happy Holidays, and happy listening!

Ralph Nielsen
http://www.historicpianos.com/