It is well known amongst people in the know that Baldwin was out of 1000 piano manufacturers in the USA at the turn of the century 1 of 5 standout brands; the other four being Steinway, Mason & Hamlin, Knabe and Chickering.
Baldwin was the only brand that truly gave Steinway & Sons a run for their money. Baldwin’s rim, plate, soundboard, bridge and pinblock and overall build quality were during their time of manufacturer in the USA considered equal to Steinway.