Piano Tuning vs. Regulation vs. Voicing

Tuning corrects pitch, regulation adjusts the mechanical action, and voicing shapes tone — each addresses a different part of the piano, and a piano can need any one of the three independently of the others.

A piano tuner adjusts string tension so the piano plays at correct pitch (A440-442) — this is the most frequently needed service, since pitch naturally drifts over time even without any change in the piano’s condition.

Adjusts the key and hammer mechanism, affecting touch and responsiveness — a piano can be perfectly in tune and still feel uneven or sluggish under the fingers if the action itself needs regulation.

Adjusts hammer felt to shape tone, from brighter to warmer — this is a more subjective, less frequently needed adjustment than tuning or regulation, typically addressed once the more fundamental pitch and action issues are already in good shape. See the full Piano Tuning FAQ for details.