May I solicit the opinions of MMD piano restorers as to the relative
qualities of different supplier's thin tosh, otherwise known as thin
rubber cloth used for the playing pneumatics of player pianos.

For many years now I have used the thin cloth supplied by Heckscher's
of Camden Town, London.  This has a thickness of 0.007 inch, and is
cotton-based with a satin finish of dark grey on the rubber side.
I believe this is imported from Germany.  I have never had any problem
with this cloth and have full confidence in its longevity.

Player Piano Co. of Wichita sells their Aeolus natural rubber bellows
cloth, #50, of which I have a supply.  This is 0.008 inch thick and is
cotton-based with a matte black finish on the rubber side.  Before I
start recovering the playing pneumatics on my latest project I would
like to receive comments as to the quality and life expectancy of the
PPCo product.

In order to avoid embarrassment and possible litigation, any derogatory
comments may be sent directly to me rather than via MMD.

The old saying of 'If it ain't broken, don't fix it!' comes to mind but
I would appreciate recommendations from long term professionals.

Many thanks from Great Britain,

Nicholas Simons