Hi folks,
I have a 56 yr old Janssen console piano, which I have owned for 48 yrs. I just had a technician look at it and said the following: I need new pins, I need the felt sanded, I need the sound board repaired and glued, I need regulation and a few other things to the tune of $2000. I asked if he thought the piano was worth spending that kind of money on it and he asked how sentimental I felt about it. It is my original piano from when I was 8 yrs old, however I am wondering if I would be better off purchasing a new piano. I was wondering if I could pick any brains on this forum. I know it is hard to give an opinion on an unseen instrument. Thank you for listening

How long does the technician think the repairs would last before more work will be needed on your Janssen?
You will be well served to go and play some new or newer used pianos, that will give you frame of reference. You'll see for yourself whether you like something newer that much better.

the technician did not say and I did not ask that question. it is certainly a question to keep in mind. thank you

I would consider all options including possibly replacing the piano. I don't think I would recommend putting that much money into your particular piano but then, that is entirely up to you... 56 years old and it needs a lot of work...

I'd be interested in what is going on with the soundboard. Is is cracked in a place that is causing a rib or ribs to vibrate? You would hear a buzzing sound if this is the case. As far as new tuning pins go, I would recommend a CA treatment of the pinblock, rather than changing the tuning pins. Sanding the hammers and voicing is probably in order for a piano of this vintage. This will also require some action regulation.

But I too would be hesitant in putting that much money into this piano. But it does have sentimental value, so it is up to you.

I always recommend people get a second opinion. How much do you know about the technician? Make sure this is someone you can trust to do good work. If he is, it may be well worth the expense.

Does the cost include moving the piano to a shop?

Play some new or newer pianos on the market. I would not "invest" in your old piano at this point.

Is he replacing strings and pins, or just pins? If this was my piano, I'd dope the pins, file the hammers, reg the action, and enjoy it - for much less than $2000.

Thank you all for your advice. They are $2000 includes transporting the piano. The pins are being replaced. The piano no longer holders it's tune. Regarding the sound board, there is a buzzing sound. The piano is tuned yearly, however it just never sounds right and it almost sounds as there is an echo?

I am having another technician come tomorrow. You have all given me a lot to think about and I really appreciate the feedback. Thanks again!

Most Janssen consoles and spinets I've worked on never sound right, before or after the tuning. As far as my experience with them, most have strange buzzes that have more to do with the piano's design, rather than a cracked soundboard. Also, I find many of them have pinblocks that are separating. Occasionally, I'll find one that's half-way decent.

Please do keep us updated....good luck

Hi everyone,
Well I had the second technician come and he advised against putting any money into my Janssen. I was convinced that it would have been crazy to spend the money, so I took the plunge and bought a new Kawai K3, which I am in love with. The sound is magnificent and I am enjoying every moment. Thank you all for the great advice.

Be well. Sue

Good for you Sue. NOW, make sure that you tune this piano at LEAST once a year! But, for the first 2 years, tune it twice to help it settle in.....

Thanks Jerry

I will take very good care of this beautiful instrument. I am so thrilled. Thanks for the advice

Congratulations on your new piano!

Congrats....

I am very pleased for you. Enjoy it!