Has a piano ever been turned into a harpsichord?

Question:Is it even possible?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Is it even possible?

Uh, not really. Even if you slid the piano action out and replaced it with a harpsichord-type action, that action would be attempting to pluck strings that are at many times the tension of harpsichord strings, and thicker. (Real harpsichords don't have cast iron frames). If you want a budget harpsichord, you'd probably have to build a kit, or settle for a digital instrument (some of which aren't too bad...plus they don't need to be tuned.)

I've seen pianos turned into desks, liquor cabinets, fancy cases for ELECTRIC keyboards - when the piano has died. Turning it into a harpsichord would involve gutting the entire thing - and then, the case would be the wrong external shape. If you have a dead piano, the IVORY might be worth more than the rest of the instrument - or you could have one heck of a dining room table. Do not give up on a GOOD make of piano that is in bad shape - we sold a NEW Steinway to buy a 1910 A in flame mahogany, that we then sunk several thousand dollars into. Now we have a honey.