Mike Knudsen writes:

> It may be easier to transplant a whole set of rods from another toy
> piano, and you will get a much better tone quality in the bargain!

This might sound a bit odd, but, if you're going to "improve" a small
toy piano, why not design a small strung back for it similar to a small
"barrel piano"?  For the few notes you have on one of those, a plate
would not be needed, and small gauge wire. Could be used.

Cross stringing could be used here to get the most string for a given
case.  A small spruce soundboard, and standoffs made from steel pins
and rock-maple braces should stand the stress.  Even copper-wound guitar
string might be used in the bass.

It may not be worth the trouble involved, but it certainly would be
musical and unique.  Dampers may or may not be needed, depending upon
the stiffness of the strings.

Just a thought

Andy Taylor
Tempola Music Rolls

 [ But I _like_ the toy piano sound of the steel rods. ;) -- Robbie