What is Piano Disc?

Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how a PianoDisc system works:

1. Installation: The PianoDisc system is installed into an existing acoustic piano, either a grand or an upright piano. The installation process involves fitting the player mechanism and control box into the piano, which requires professional installation.
2. Music Selection: The PianoDisc system comes with a vast library of pre-recorded music, from classical to modern pop, jazz, and more. The user can select a song from the library, either from the control box or remotely via a smartphone or tablet.
3. MIDI Encoding: The selected song is then encoded in MIDI format, which is a digital language that can be understood by the player mechanism. The MIDI file is then transmitted to the control box of the PianoDisc system, either through a wired connection or wirelessly via Bluetooth.
4. Playback Control: The control box of the PianoDisc system receives the MIDI file and sends signals to the player mechanism, which interprets the MIDI data and converts it into signals that activate the piano’s hammers, keys, and pedals.
5. Activation of Playing Mechanism: The player mechanism, located inside the piano, consists of solenoids, small electromagnets that are activated by the control box. When activated, the solenoids move small rods that press down on the piano keys, triggering the hammers to strike the strings, producing the desired notes.
6. Realistic Sound Production: As the PianoDisc system plays the notes on the piano, the sound is captured by the piano’s soundboard and reverberates inside the instrument, creating a rich, acoustic sound that simulates the sound of a human pianist.
7. Customization and Recording: The PianoDisc system allows the user to customize the playback, adjusting the volume, tempo, and other settings of the music. It also allows for the recording of performances, either for personal use or for commercial distribution.

Piano with PianoDisc vs ‘Digital piano’
A piano with a PianoDisc system installed is not a digital piano. Here are some key differences:

• Acoustic vs. Digital: A piano with a PianoDisc system installed is an acoustic piano that has been retrofitted with an automated playing system. In contrast, a digital piano is an electronic instrument that uses digital technology to produce sound.
• Sound Quality: A piano with a PianoDisc system installed produces sound using the natural acoustic properties of the piano, which gives it a more authentic and rich sound. Digital pianos, on the other hand, use sound samples to produce sound, which can sound very realistic, but it’s still not the same as a real piano.
• Touch and Feel: A piano with a PianoDisc system installed has the same touch and feel as a traditional acoustic piano because it uses the natural action of the keys to activate the playing mechanism. In contrast, digital pianos use sensors and switches to activate the sound, which can feel different from an acoustic piano.
• Versatility: Digital pianos are designed to mimic a range of sounds, including different types of pianos and other instruments, and they often come with features such as built-in metronomes, recording capabilities, and different modes of operation. A piano with a PianoDisc system installed can only play back pre-recorded music or the user’s own recorded performances.
• Price: A piano with a PianoDisc system installed is much more expensive than a digital piano, as it involves the installation of a complex mechanism into a high-quality acoustic piano.

In conclusion, a piano with a PianoDisc system installed is a traditional acoustic piano that has been retrofitted with an automated playing system, while a digital piano is an electronic instrument that uses digital technology to produce sound. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on the user’s preferences and needs.