Keybed Clicks When Hit Hard: A Comprehensive Guide for Nord Piano Users
Hi readers,
Welcome to our ultimate guide to understanding keybed clicks when hit hard on Nord pianos. As a Nord enthusiast, you’ve likely experienced this phenomenon, and we’re here to help you grasp its causes and explore potential solutions.
Understanding Keybed Clicks
Keybed clicks are audible noises produced when the keys are struck with excessive force. This is particularly evident on Nord pianos, which utilize a Fatar TP/40 keybed. The clicks originate from the mechanical components within the keybed assembly.
Causes of Keybed Clicks
- Mechanical tolerances: The keybed is composed of multiple moving parts, and minor imperfections in their alignment can lead to audible clicks when keys are pressed hard.
- Key weight: The Fatar TP/40 keybed features weighted keys, which provide a realistic playing experience but can also increase the likelihood of clicks if played too aggressively.
- Key velocity: When keys are hit with excessive force, they travel faster than the sensor can register, resulting in a "double-click" effect.
Troubleshooting Keybed Clicks
- Adjust your playing technique: Avoid hitting keys excessively hard. Instead, focus on playing with a relaxed touch and using the natural weight of your fingers.
- Lubricate the keybed: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the keybed’s moving parts to reduce friction and minimize clicks.
- Check for foreign objects: Occasionally, debris or foreign objects can become lodged in the keybed, causing clicks. Inspect it carefully and remove any obstructions.
Impact on Piano Performance
- Acoustic distractions: Keybed clicks can be distracting during performance, particularly in recording or live settings.
- Reduced key response: Excessive force can affect the key’s response time, making it less sensitive to subtle playing techniques.
Keybed Clicks vs. Piano Noise
It’s important to differentiate between keybed clicks and general piano noise. Piano noise refers to the natural sounds produced by the piano’s action, including pedal noises, hammer strikes, and damper releases. Keybed clicks, on the other hand, are distinct mechanical noises that occur specifically when keys are hit hard.
Table: Keybed Clicks Troubleshooting Matrix
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Keybed clicks when hit hard | Mechanical tolerances or key weight | Adjust playing technique or lubricate keybed |
| Double-click effect | Excessive key velocity | Play with a lighter touch |
| Clicks on specific keys | Foreign object obstruction | Inspect and remove any debris |
| Reduced key response | Excessive force | Adjust playing technique or consider a different keybed |
Conclusion
Keybed clicks when hit hard on Nord pianos can be a common issue. By understanding the causes and implementing the troubleshooting tips outlined in this guide, you can minimize their occurrence and optimize your piano’s performance. For more in-depth articles on Nord pianos and other musical topics, be sure to check out our extensive library of resources.
FAQ about why do nord keybeds click when hit hard
What exactly is a keybed?
A keybed is the assembly of keys and their associated mechanism. It’s what you press when you play a piano, organ, or other keyboard instrument.
Why do Nord keybeds click when hit hard?
Nord keybeds click when hit hard because of the way they are designed. The keys are made of a lightweight material, and they are attached to a metal frame. When a key is hit hard, it causes the metal frame to vibrate, which in turn causes the key to click.
Is it possible to stop the clicking?
Yes, it is possible to stop the clicking by replacing the metal frame with a plastic frame. However, this will change the feel of the keybed, and it may make it more difficult to play quickly.
Is the clicking a sign of a problem?
No, the clicking is not a sign of a problem. It is simply a characteristic of the Nord keybed design.
Do all Nord keybeds click?
No, not all Nord keybeds click. Only the models with the Fatar TP/40 keybed click. The models with the Fatar TP/80 keybed do not click.
Can I adjust the clickiness of my Nord keybed?
Yes, you can adjust the clickiness of your Nord keybed by adjusting the keybed tension. To do this, use the included Allen key to turn the tension screw located on the bottom of the keyboard. Turning the screw clockwise will increase the tension and make the keybed less clicky.
My Nord keybed is clicking a lot. What should I do?
If your Nord keybed is clicking a lot, you can try adjusting the keybed tension as described above. If that does not solve the problem, you may need to have the keybed replaced.
How do I replace a keybed?
Replacing a keybed is a complex process that should be performed by a qualified technician.
How much does it cost to replace a keybed?
The cost of replacing a keybed will vary depending on the model of Nord keyboard and the location of the technician.
How long does it take to replace a keybed?
Replacing a keybed typically takes several hours.
