
( Brand: Baldwin ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 5455V.MR ), ( Model: 5455V030MR ), ( Type: Door Handle ), ( Color: Lifetime Polished Brass 003 ), ( Style: Passage ), ( Material: Brass ), ( Suitable For: Interior/room Door ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( UPC: 884011402608 )
The **Baldwin 5455V.MR 5455V-030 MR Wave Lever** is a meticulously engineered, high-performance drum set designed for drummers who demand both precision and versatility in their playing experience. This model belongs to Baldwin s esteemed **Wave Lever** series, renowned for its innovative lever-action snare drum hardware, which delivers a responsive, dynamic feel unmatched by traditional lug systems. The **5455V.MR** configuration features a **5-piece bass drum (20" x 18")** paired with a **14" x 5.5" snare drum**, offering a balanced, powerful low-end with crisp, articulate snare response ideal for a wide range of musical styles, from rock and metal to jazz and fusion. The **MR (Magnetic Resonance) snare** incorporates Baldwin s proprietary **Magnetic Resonance System**, which enhances sustain and tonal clarity by reducing unwanted vibrations, allowing the drum to project with greater focus and depth. The **Wave Lever** mechanism itself is a game-changer, providing a smooth, consistent tension adjustment with minimal effort, ensuring that drummers can fine-tune their playing without the frustration of traditional lugs slipping or binding. This system also reduces hand fatigue over extended practice sessions, making it a favorite among touring and studio drummers who prioritize efficiency and reliability.
The **5455V.MR** is built on Baldwin s legendary **V-Drive** shell construction, featuring a **5-ply wood shell** with a **V-shaped internal bracing system** that maximizes resonance and durability while minimizing weight. The **V-Drive** design ensures that the drum s tonal character remains consistent and powerful, even under high tension, while the **MR snare** further refines the snare s attack and decay, offering a more controlled and articulate sound. The **20" x 18" bass drum** is particularly impressive, delivering a deep, thunderous boom with exceptional clarity, thanks to Baldwin s **Dual-Ply Bass Drum Head System**, which combines a durable outer layer with a responsive inner layer for optimal projection. The **14" x 5.5" snare** is equipped with **Baldwin s MR Snare Wire**, a high-tension wire that enhances the snare s snap and sustain, making it perfect for both aggressive rock grooves and delicate jazz rides.
Beyond its core components, the **5455V.MR** is finished in Baldwin s signature **matte black or metallic silver** (depending on the model variant), giving it a sleek, professional appearance that complements any drum kit setup. The **Wave Lever** hardware is not only functional but also aesthetically refined, with a clean, modern design that blends seamlessly with the drum s overall look. For drummers who require additional versatility, Baldwin offers optional upgrades such as **Baldwin s SoundShaper** tuning system, which allows for precise tonal adjustments via a digital interface, or **custom shell finishes** like maple, ash, or walnut for those seeking a unique tonal signature. Whether used in a home studio, a live performance setting, or a recording session, the **5455V.MR 5455V-030 MR Wave Lever** stands as a testament to Baldwin s commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and uncompromising performance making it a standout choice for drummers who refuse to settle for anything less than excellence.
### **Pros and Cons of Buying a Baldwin 5455V.MR (Wave Lever) Piano**
#### **Pros**
1. **High-Quality Sound and Craftsmanship**
The Baldwin 5455V.MR is a professional-grade upright piano known for its rich, resonant tone. Baldwin pianos are crafted with solid materials, including high-quality cast iron plates and premium woods, which contribute to a warm, balanced sound. The wave lever action (a feature of the 5455V series) enhances touch sensitivity and responsiveness, making it ideal for both performance and practice.
2. **Wave Lever Action (5455V Series)**
Unlike standard upright pianos, the 5455V.MR features Baldwin s Wave Lever action, which provides a more dynamic playing experience. This action allows for greater control over tone and dynamics, making it suitable for intermediate to advanced players who seek a more expressive instrument.
3. **Durability and Longevity**
Baldwin pianos are built to last, with robust construction that includes a heavy cast iron frame and soundboard. This makes the 5455V.MR a reliable long-term investment, especially if maintained properly.
4. **Professional-Grade Features**
The piano includes features such as a dual-motion damper system, which improves sustain and resonance. The action is also designed to minimize wear and tear, reducing the need for frequent adjustments.
5. **Good for Intermediate to Advanced Players**
While not as powerful as a grand piano, the 5455V.MR offers enough projection and tonal complexity to satisfy serious students and professionals. It is well-suited for recitals, lessons, and home practice.
6. **Resale Value**
Baldwin pianos, particularly well-maintained models like the 5455V.MR, hold their value relatively well compared to some other brands. This can be beneficial if you decide to sell or trade it in the future.
7. **Versatile for Different Genres**
The piano s balanced tone works well for classical, jazz, and light pop/rock music, making it a versatile choice for a variety of musical styles.
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#### **Cons**
1. **High Initial Cost**
The Baldwin 5455V.MR is a premium upright piano, and its price reflects its quality. It is significantly more expensive than entry-level or mid-range upright pianos, which may be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers.
2. **Maintenance Requirements**
Like all pianos, the 5455V.MR requires regular tuning (typically every 4 6 months) and occasional professional maintenance (e.g., action regulation, hammer replacement). Neglecting maintenance can lead to poor playability and sound quality over time.
3. **Space Considerations**
At approximately 54.5 inches tall, the 5455V.MR is a large upright piano. It requires dedicated space in a home, and its size may not be practical for smaller apartments or rooms with limited floor area.
4. **Weight and Portability**
The piano is heavy (around 800 900 lbs), making it difficult to move without professional assistance. If you anticipate relocating frequently, this could be a drawback.
5. **Learning Curve for Wave Lever Action**
While the Wave Lever action enhances playability, it may take some time for players accustomed to standard actions to adjust to its unique feel. Beginners might find it less intuitive at first.
6. **Limited Low-End Power Compared to Grands**
Although the 5455V.MR has a strong tone, it does not match the low-end power and sustain of a grand piano. Players who require deep bass or extended sustain may find it lacking compared to a concert grand.
7. **Resale Market Limitations**
While Baldwin pianos hold value, the resale market for high-end upright pianos can be competitive. You may not recover the full purchase price if you decide to sell it later.
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### **Conclusion**
The Baldwin 5455V.MR is an excellent choice for musicians who prioritize tone quality, durability, and professional-grade features. It is particularly well-suited for intermediate to advanced players, teachers, and those who perform regularly. However, its high cost, maintenance needs, and space requirements make it less ideal for beginners, casual players, or those with limited budgets.
If you are committed to investing in a high-quality upright piano that will serve you for decades, the 5455V.MR is a strong recommendation. For those on a tighter budget or seeking a more portable option, a mid-range upright or digital piano might be a more practical alternative.
### **Recommendation**
**Buy the Baldwin 5455V.MR if:**- You are an intermediate to advanced pianist or teacher.
- You value a rich, resonant tone and professional craftsmanship.
- You have the space and budget for a premium upright piano.
- You plan to use it for regular practice, lessons, or performances.
**Consider alternatives if:**- You are a beginner and need a more affordable or beginner-friendly piano.
- You have limited space or need a portable instrument.
- You prioritize digital features (e.g., headphone jacks, recording capabilities) over acoustic sound.
Ultimately, the 5455V.MR is a fantastic investment for serious musicians, but it is essential to weigh its pros and cons against your personal needs and circumstances.
For any matching Baldwin Passage, Privacy or Full Dummy lever sets, Passage Rosettes, adapters, latches, privacy pins etc. Will come in a Repackaged USPS or Baldwin Box as original box is weak and torn. I have many Genuine Baldwin parts. Feel Free to ask questions if any prior order Includes Nothing more or Less.
2 Baldwin Set Screws for Levers. Feel free to message me. 2 Baldwin Levers as pictured One Left Hand Lever and Right. In separate posts, I am selling Lifetime Polished Brass 003 finish and 5148 Privacy Rosettes.
One Brand New PAIR of Levers - Baldwin 5455V.030.MR Pair Estate Wave Without Rosettes or any other hardware, Polished Brass 030 finish.