Piano Player Systems

 

QRS SUPER PLAYER SYSTEMS

Today's player piano entertainment systems are based on solenoids and plungers that are computer-activated to move the keys. The design and construction of the solenoids and plungers is a key differentiator between brands of player piano systems and an important consideration when choosing your entertainment system. Pianomation has long been considered the "gold standard" in the industry for player piano technology, and with good reason.

QRS player piano systems use specially designed solenoids and plungers that eliminate problems commonly found in competitive player piano systems.

  • Plungers are made using a non-stick coating that minimizes friction and wear and are precision fit for tightness, to eliminate the potential for mechanical noise and rattling in your player piano system.
  • Superior engineering and watch dog circuitry eliminate the risk of hot or overheated solenoids that can dry out the action parts of the piano.
  • Plunger throw distance is adjustable on a solenoid-by-solenoid basis to perfectly match the distance that each individual key travels, ensuring your player piano system delivers unparalleled sound control and more musical expression.

DISKLAVIER

Disklavier is the brand name for a group of piano-related products made by the Yamaha Corporation.  It was introduced in the United States in 1987. Disklavier is very expensive.

The various forms of Disklavier are essentially modern player pianos that use electromechanical solenoids and optical sensors connected to LEDs allowing them to play notes and use the pedals independently of any human operator. Most models are based upon real acoustic pianos and have been engineered such that the sensors and electromechanical elements do not interfere with or affect the normal playing of the instrument. They include the ability to store data, including performance data played by a human pianist, and then use that data to replay / reproduce the performance. Disklaviers also have inputs for data from MIDI and from several storage devices including floppy disks, CD-ROM, serial cables, and USB.

Disklaviers have been manufactured in the form of upright, baby grand, and grand piano styles (including a nine-foot concert grand), along with a product aimed at the professional market called the Disklavier Pro. There is also a digital piano version from Yamaha's 'GranTouch' range. It is claimed by the manufacturer that the Disklavier Pro is able to reproduce key and pedal strokes with greater precision than the standard Disklavier instrument. It is the official instrument of the Minnesota International Piano-e-Competition, which by 2009 was in its 6th year. Back to front page.