Grand Regulation - part XX

Step 35 - The Aftertouch (continued)

We left off last week with how to set the aftertouch on the natural keys, and some of the problems which occur when trying to set the dip with a key dip block. I just want to emphasize how much I dislike using a key dip block. As stated before, when beginning to regulate, only one measurement is needed, either the blow distance or the key dip. Remember the ‘Dip and Blow Priority’ discussion? The arguments are clearly in favour of using the Blow Priority method where possible. I find it no problem when finished regulating to alter the action to give it a little more power or a little faster repetition to suit the artist. All of this can be performed without a key dip block!

Now that the natural aftertouch has been established, virtually a repeat is done to regulate the sharp aftertouch. Taking a section at a time, watch the amount that the hammer rises after drop and add or subtract punchings so that the sharps have the same amount of hammer rise as the naturals. Greater care must be exercised when raising a sharp to avoid elongating the centre hole in the key. Double check the evenness of the sharps in the down position by depressing a group of them and comparing their heights to the neighbouring naturals. Correct the offending key height, blow, let-off, drop, or jack alignment and reset the aftertouch. Continue to the next section until all 88 keys have been completed. Now turn all of the paper punchings under the felt punchings, preferably keeping the large cardboard at the bottom and the thinnest paper at the top.

Regulating the sharps in this manner eliminates all of the mess and confusion of how to set the sharp key dip...

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