Ampico, Duo-Art, Whatever, Technology
By Keith Nealy
I'm new to this stuff, but have become interested in the technology behind the reproducing pianos, particularly the ones capable of dynamic expression.
Am I to understand that no one knows how these rolls were produced? or is it just me that's ignorant? Is there a book that would provide a general introduction without making me into a restorer? It seems incredible to me that there could be such a mystery.
Perhaps this forum should begin a FAQ file. Is there one? I'd like to know in exactly what form the information is recorded on rolls and how the information is translated into hammer blows. I gather it was largely pneumatic. Were there any electric solenoid type actuators? How were amplitude, attack and decay characteristics recorded and reproduced? Where can I find an introductory explanation of these questions?
Thanks in advance for anyone's help.
Best wishes, Keith Nealy
[ Editor's Note: There is no FAQ (yet), but there should be. Now
[ that things have been going for a little over a year, there definitely
[ are some frequently asked questions. I think in the roll making
[ department that there is a lot know and some lost. We've had some
[ hints here by "the experts" and I'm hoping that there will be more
[ written on the subject here.
[
[ Jody
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(Message sent Wed 29 May 1996, 08:05:07 GMT, from time zone GMT-0700.) |
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