Most modern acoustic pianos have 88 keys that create a hammer action upon (normally) metal 'strings'. How many internal 'strings' are there?

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Most modern acoustic pianos have 88 keys that create a hammer action upon (normally) metal 'strings'. How many internal 'strings' are there?

Question #152162. Asked by odo5435.
Last updated Jul 28 2025.
Originally posted Jul 15 2025 10:43 AM.

1nn1

Answer has 2 votes

1nn1

14 year member
201 replies avatar

Answer has 2 votes.

There are 88 keys on a piano, but more than 200 strings - usually between 220-230 depending on make and model. The higher notes have more strings, and these strings are thinner.

https://www.pianote.com/blog/how-pianos-work

Jul 15 2025, 11:30 AM

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Answer 1

Most modern acoustic pianos have around 230 strings, even though they have 88 keys. The reason? Higher-pitched notes usually use 3 strings per key, mid-range notes often use 2, and the deep bass notes get 1 thick string each. This setup helps the piano produce a full, rich sound with better sustain and balance across its range.

https://pianotechniciantuner.com/blog/strings-a-piano-has-how-and-why

Most modern acoustic pianos have 88 keys that create a hammer action upon (normally) metal 'strings'. How many internal 'strings' are there?

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