Regulation refers to the precise adjustment of the mechanical action—the intricate system of levers, hammers, and dampers that translate your touch into sound. A piano action contains over 9,000 parts, and even small changes in alignment, spacing, or friction can dramatically affect how the piano feels and responds.
Over time, felt compresses, wooden parts settle, and the delicate adjustments made at the factory drift out of specification. Proper regulation restores the factory feel—or better—giving you consistent touch across all 88 keys and full dynamic control from the softest pianissimo to the boldest fortissimo.
Uneven key height or depth of touch
Keys that feel sluggish or don't repeat quickly
Loss of power or dynamic range
Notes that don't play unless struck firmly
Excessive or inconsistent aftertouch
Hammers not returning to rest position smoothly
Key leveling and spacing adjustment
Hammer alignment and let-off regulation
Repetition spring adjustment
Damper timing and seating
Pedal adjustment and trapwork regulation
Backcheck and jack positioning
Full regulation is a meticulous process that can take several hours to a full day, depending on the piano's condition and complexity. I work through the action systematically, making precise adjustments using specialized tools and gauges.
For pianos that haven't been regulated in many years, I often recommend spreading the work across multiple visits. This allows the action to settle between adjustments and produces more stable, long-lasting results.