I already have a traditional Jansen artist bench (manually operated scissor mechanism) as well as a pneumatic artist bench made by Jansen (came with my piano)
However, I want to replace the squeaking freebie bench that came with my digital hybrid piano and an artist style bench is too bulky
I spent the last day looking at old PW threads and it seems that people have been pleased with Hidrau Model and Andexinger, except Andexinger is 1/2 the price if ordered through Thomann
My only reservation about purchasing the Andexinger would be the weight threshold required to lower the bench, which is an unknown. Reviews and previous PW posts seem unanimous in their praise for build quality and stability.
There was a video posted a while back where a pianist was too light to make the pistons of the Hidrau Model bench descend
Anyone have direct experience with either of these benches? (or ideally, both)
I've practiced and performed on both the Andexinger and Hidrau. I think they equal with respect to durability, sturdiness, silent operation. That said, the seating surface is different. The Hidrau has smooth, soft leather covering and definitely feels more cushioned than the Andexinger. I believe the Hidrau padding is not just softer but somewhat thicker though I never measured it.
