In response to the question if one should gut their Mason & Hamlin
Ampico to install the player parts in another piano, I have to say,
"No, no, no!"
It has been done. In the 1970's, when there were lots of parts
everywhere, several people reinstalled the player parts in many
different pianos, including a large Kawaii.
If you have one of these large pianos and you really want to hear
it play via music roll, then please search for parts. I think the
results would be pleasing and you would be preserving an original
instrument at the same time. I realize I am a passing breed of piano
lover but I have hopes that someday a future generation may come to
realize that the player piano is a great piece to have in the home.
I personally vote that every home should have more than one player
piano.
Don Teach
P.S.: If you really want to do this project then I will let loose
some of my spare Ampico parts.
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