Piano Terminology Question..

[Chiyo]

Is spinet and console piano different thing?

I know console piano is not studio upright, but I'm a little confused.

Can someone help me?

[rachfan]

Hi Chiyo,

A spinet is a small vertical piano, usually 36 to 39 inches tall with an indirect-blow action.

A console is a vertical piano usually from 40 to 44 inches in height with a compressed, direct-blow action.  

The console is obviously the superior instrument of the two, as it features longer strings and the direct-blow action, both of which produce better sound.

[amee]

What is direct blow action and indirect blow action?

[Brian Lawson, RPT]

https://www.pianofinders.com/faqs/buyer_faq.htm

gives you more in-depth defintions.


Rachfan - not all pianos with longer strings give better sound

https://www.ptg.org/pipermail/pianotech/2000-November/074472.html


Amee - simplicity is confront, Complexity is non confront

[rachfan]

Hi Brian,

I was making a generalization on longer strings.  I agree, for example, when it comes to grands, a Pearl River GP213 will obviously never be a Steinway B, Baldwin SF10 or a Mason & Hamlin BB, due to inferior design, materials, craftsmanship, prep work, etc.   But in a relative sense, the Pearl River 7' model should at least outshine its 5'3" brother due to the longer strings, everything else held constant.  But would I trade my Baldwin L (6'3") for the Pearl River GP213 (7')? Nope, but I'd take the Baldwin SF10 in a second.   I would also have to say in grands, that anyone investing in one less than 5'6" will usually be disappointed.  In fact, once you get down to 5'2", several larger quality verticals would actually be better choices.

Similarly, I believe most would agree that given a quality brand of vertical piano, the taller one (longer strings, larger soundboard) will be superior to the spinet within that same brand.   Is it your belief that in general one should go for a spinet rather than a console if those are the two choices?

[rachfan]

Hi amee,

A direct blow action in a vertical piano is positioned above the keys.  When a key is activated the action parts are propelled upward and the hammer strikes the string.

For indirect blow actions in verticals, the action is mounted below the level of the keys and actuated by wires that pull upward in stead of the pushing motion as described above.  

I have yet to hear anyone suggest that an indirect blow action is better than a direct blow action.  Usually, most would agree that indirect blow actions are best avoided if possible.  The direct blow is more akin to the action in a grand, whereas the indirect blow is a compromise, and a weaker and less reliable and durable mechanism.

[Chiyo]

Thanks guys! That helps.

[chopinetta]

WOW! you all know how the piano works! i dont...!

[amee]

Thanks for your explanation, RachFan!

[rachfan]

Hi Chiyo and amee,

You're entirely welcome!  

[rachfan]

Hi Chopinetta,

If you want to get a lot of insights into the workings of the piano (a basic understanding is all you really need), you can get  it from reading just one book on the subject.  Larry Fine's "The Piano Book" offers some good overviews.

Or, you might want to look at  pianoworld.com on their instrument board.  There are many piano technicians there who shed light on issues--and they don't always agree either.