Hi to all,  As we would all agree, any and all responses regarding this
subject are personal opinions, some from several years of experience in
the field.  I have seen and heard quite a number of reproducers over
the years and offer the following:

Duo-Art models: I have heard Steinways with wonderful tone and
Steinways with mediocre tone.  I have heard Webers that sounded better
than some Steinways.  Most of the Stecks and Strouds have a lively bass
and sparkling treble, but mediocre "tenor" sections, complete with the
Aeolian "boing" at the break.

Ampico models: I have heard wonderful Knabes and sorry Knabes.  Most,
but not all, Marshall & Wendells are superior in tone even to some
Knabes.  I restored one Franklin that was as good as pianos higher in
the American line.  The Chickerings fall into all categories from poor
to terrific.

My personal pianos are a 1924 5' 2" William and Mary Marshall & Wendell
grand, and a 1925 Marshall & Wendell vertical.  The tone of the vertical
rivals most small grands, including mine.

The bottom line:  Any poor rebuild will result in poor performance
regardless of the manufacturer.  My advice is to listen at length to
any piano of interest, playing both classical and popular rolls.
Consider the rebuilder's reputation and don't accept or decline a piano
on the manufacturer alone.

Tim Johnson