This comprehensive guide details the tuning and repair process of a vintage Yamaha CP70M electric piano, a unique instrument blending analog and MIDI capabilities. The piano, with its history of extensive use in a Seattle rental shop, presented several challenges, including buzzing strings and the need for overall tuning. This project serves as a practical demonstration of how a determined individual, even without professional training, can tackle these issues.The guide walks you through the necessary tools, a basic tuning kit and a piano tuning app, and the step-by-step process, from addressing buzzing strings to tuning the piano using a unique approach leveraging the instrument's MIDI capabilities and a digital audio workstation (DAW) for enhanced precision. The result is a testament to patience, careful technique, and creative problem-solving in achieving a successful DIY piano tuning. While professional tuning is always recommended, this guide offers a valuable insight for those willing to undertake the task themselves.
Pros And Cons
- Has MIDI output in addition to analog audio output.
- Only has two strings on the hi-hat and single strings on the low end, making tuning faster.
- Some keys were buzzing.
- Required tuning.
Read more: 5-Piece Piano Tuning Kit with Tuning Fork
The Yamaha CP70M: A Retro Instrument
The Yamaha CP70M is a vintage electric piano with a unique history. This particular instrument had a long life in a Seattle rental shop, likely seeing heavy use throughout the 80s and 90s. Its age is evident not only in its current condition but also in its unique combination of MIDI and analog outputs. This dual functionality makes it appealing to both vintage instrument enthusiasts and modern musicians.
The CP70M boasts analog audio output via pickups under the strings, as well as a MIDI output for greater flexibility and compatibility with modern recording and performance setups. The blend of classic sound with modern technology makes the CP70M a sought-after piece for those seeking a unique instrumental experience.
Tools and Preparation for Piano Tuning
Tuning a piano requires specific tools. This project utilizes a basic tuning kit, purchased for around $40 on Amazon. The kit includes essential items like a wrench for adjusting tuning pegs, felt dampeners to speed up tuning, and additional rubber tools. In addition to the physical kit, a piano tuning app for a phone or laptop is necessary for accurate pitch calibration.
The chosen app is a freeware option, readily available online. Beyond the tools, basic mechanical understanding is beneficial. While this guide documents the tuning process, prior experience is recommended to avoid potential damage.
Addressing Buzzing Strings
Before starting the main tuning process, it's important to address any buzzing strings. These occur when the strings vibrate against other parts of the piano, producing an unwanted sound. In this case, several keys (G#, two strings near A, and C#) were identified as having buzzing issues. To fix the buzzing, the strings needed to be carefully adjusted and re-positioned.
The process involves loosening the tuning pegs, carefully repositioning the strings to remove the point of contact causing the buzz, and then re-tightening the pegs. Precision and care are essential during this step to avoid any further damage.
The Tuning Process
The piano tuning process begins with the middle two octaves, followed by the lower and finally the upper octave. This approach ensures a more stable and accurate overall tuning. The use of felt dampeners aids in efficient tuning. As a beginner, it's essential to take each step carefully and systematically.
The tuner uses a combination of visual and auditory cues. The piano tuning app provides visual feedback, while the ear is used to fine-tune the sound. Working on one octave at a time, systematically tightening and loosening tuning pegs will gradually bring the piano into pitch.
Utilizing MIDI and MainStage for Tuning
For a more precise tuning, the presenter leverages the piano's MIDI capabilities and MainStage, a digital audio workstation. By routing the piano's audio and MIDI signals into MainStage, a comparative sound is created. The audio output is directed to one channel and the MIDI output to a virtual Rhodes piano.
This allows for direct comparison of the acoustic piano's tuning against a perfectly tuned digital piano. The ability to simultaneously hear both helps refine the process and improve the overall accuracy of the tuning. This approach allows for an enhanced listening experience and more accurate adjustments.
Conclusion: A Successful DIY Piano Tuning
This video demonstrates a successful DIY tuning of a vintage Yamaha CP70M electric piano. While piano tuning is a skill typically requiring years of experience, the presenter successfully addresses buzzing strings and tunes the piano using readily available tools and software. The innovative approach utilizing MIDI and digital audio workstations highlights a unique methodology that allows for enhanced tuning precision.
The project showcases that with patience, careful technique, and the right tools, a reasonably successful piano tuning can be achieved by individuals without professional training. Though professional tuning is recommended for optimal results, this project demonstrates a feasible method for those willing to invest time and effort.