the rim
Today’s Steinway rim has enhanced stability, durability, and strength — which together create and improve on the distinctive “Steinway Sound.”
straight-grained hard rock maple
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bent by hand for over 140 years
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patented one-piece continuous bent rim
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state-of-the-art conditioning
A Steinway carries up to 46,000 pounds of tension from its strings. The piano rim supports this tension while simultaneously supporting and enhancing the acoustical properties of the soundboard. Steinway’s patented one-piece continuous bent rim generates its strength by bending single laminations of premium, straight-grained rock maple in an unbroken curve to form the rim of the piano.
The process of bending our rims completely by hand has taken place in our factory for over 140 years, and recent developments in that process have produced a vastly improved piano rim. Within the last ten years, we have made improvements to our rim presses and the conditioning process for these hand-bent rims: new reinforced clamping cauls improve the curvature of the rim; new pneumatic wrenches guarantee the proper amount of glue between laminations; and new stabilizers are inserted after the rim has been bent to ensure our rims maintain their optimal shape. Additionally, our rims are placed in new Programmable Logic Controlled Conditioning Rooms that ensure impeccable curing of the wood and glue.
Today’s Steinway rim has improved stability, durability, and strength — which together create the distinctive “Steinway Sound.” Never before has our rim emboldened our unique diaphragmatic soundboard to vibrate so freely and generate such a magnificent, golden tone.
To call a genuine grand or upright of Steinway & Sons one’s own is an overwhelming feeling. Far more than just an exquisite instrument, it is an instrument of the highest expression and creativity. A Steinway intimately connects artist and listener, and invites its owner to join a tradition of musical perfection, making it an invaluable investment.