Yes, the Mason & Hamlin Model AA is widely considered an exceptional, world-class tier grand piano. Among pianists and piano technicians, it has earned a legendary reputation for outperforming many instruments much larger than its size.Key Structural StrengthsTension Resonator: A patented steel spider-like structure under the soundboard that locks the rim in place. It prevents the wooden frame from stretching over time, permanently preserving the soundboard’s crown and tone.Overbuilt Construction: Features an extraordinarily thick, solid maple rim and a full perimeter plate. This gives the piano immense tuning stability and durability.Wide-Tail Design: The cabinet is wider at the back than standard grands. This allows for a larger soundboard area and longer bass strings, yielding a massive sound.Tonal and Playing CharacteristicsPowerful Bass: A deep, “thunderous” low end that rivals 7-foot semi-concert grands.Bell-Like Treble: Singing, sparkly high notes with incredible sustain and natural “bloom”.Dynamic Range: Capable of roaring power down to the softest, most controlled whisper.Golden Age vs. Modern Era ConsiderationsThe Model AA has been built in two distinct iterations depending on the era:Vintage “Golden Age” (Pre-WWII): Typically built as a 6’2″ grand. These are highly prized by rebuilders. If fully restored with a new pinblock, soundboard, and action, they are among the finest residential instruments ever made.Modern Era (Post-2004): Reintroduced by Burgett, Inc. as a slightly larger 6’4″ grand. Modern models are phenomenal and come equipped with ultra-responsive, composite Wessell, Nickel & Gross (WNG) actions, which are impervious to humidity changes.