Key spacing is a part of keyboard regulation of acoustic and electric pianos. It is the process of adjusting the key so they are even in distance from each other. This applies to all keys but is more noticeable in the white keys.
For acoustic pianos, Rhodes, and Wurlitzer pianos, key spacing forms one of the several steps of keyboard regulation. The others includes side play adjustment and key squaring, with key bushing repair if needed. Following this the key height and key dip are set for all flat and sharp keys. The regulation process then moves up into the action.
On Hohner Clavinets, key spacing is usually not necessary as the keys are fixed into the key frame. The key bushing (Clavinet) housing can be adjusted if necessary to correct this.
The spacing of keys is undertaken by using a key spacing tool and adjusting the front rail by bending the pin either left or right depending on the direction needed. A very small amount of movement is needed to significantly change the spacing. If undertaking do not bend the front rail pin too much as this can cause it to become loose.
