Helpinstill

Helpinstill is a US-based company that produces a unique electromagnetic pickup system for amplifying grand and upright pianos on stage.

A small mixer allows the pianist or sound engineer to adjust the output balance of the pickups.

These were uprights, built into aluminium flightcases on casters with fold-away keyboards and sustain pedals.

This was an 88-note baby grand without its heavy outer case, and designed to separate into a keyboard and a "harp" section with removable "hairpin"-style legs.

Both instruments are still renowned for their authentic sound when amplified, and the Helpinstill pickup remains an industry standard.