Silent piano
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A silent piano is an acoustic piano where there is an option to silence the strings by means of an interposing hammer bar. They are designed for private silent practice.
In the silent mode, the key movement is picked up by sensors. In older models mechanical sensors were used which affected the touch and produced a clicking sound, whereas newer models use optical sensors which do not affect the feel or sound of the piano. The key movement sensed is then converted to a midi signal and can be linked to a sound module, allowing the piano to be used as a digital instrument via headphones. The pianos also have full midi capability and can be linked to a computer for use with notation software etc.
Silent pianos are available from Yamaha, Bosendorfer, Kawai, Kemble and Schimmel. Aftermarket systems for all pianos are available from Gabor (One of the first silent systems), PianoDisc and Midi9.
