Hi everyone.  One thing that hasn't been mentioned in this ongoing
debate is that these technologies can be combined with excellent results,
electronic over pneumatic.  If the MIDI systems are used to drive a
pneumatic system, with MIDI air valves, it might be a better way to
approach the situation.

Personally, I think that pneumatics will outperform solenoid actions.
I make this statement because I have both units in the same piano and I
can compare the same QRS numbers on floppies or rolls.

In the same way, MIDI air valves can be used in reproducers to operate
the many control devices.  Ideally, These devices should perform as well
as when operated by paper roll.  Then these pianos could be used to play
"web music" too.

I haven't had time to measure the operating voltage that the solenoids in
my Pianomation unit has, but I am pretty sure that the driver boards
would operate MIDI air valves.  These having less mass should operate
much faster than the solenoids, at least I think so.

I wonder if QRS would be interested in selling a modified Pianomation
unit with the air valves instead of the solenoid rail?  Then the people
with players and reproducers could have the features of playing CDs and
floppies without having to cut a slot in the keyboard for the solenoids!
Believe me, that operation is pretty scary.

The QRS unit is one of the best.  I checked all the competing brands
before I bought it.  Of course, I use this unit to check my MIDI
arrangements, so it is used every day.

There is another thing that hasn't been mentioned: instead of turning
down a player action to the point of dropping out to play softly -- Has
everyone forgotten about the hammer rail lift?  :)

Andy Taylor