Neupert Spinet
The spinet is a small keyboard instrument that sounds with the same plectrum action as the harpsichord, with its strings running diagonally to the keyboard. Neupert’s spinets are the Zenti, dedicated to Girolamo Zenti, who first built this type in 1637, and a copy of the 1767 spinet by the Strasbourg master Johann Heinrich Silbermann; the Silbermann spinet is also offered in a Standard version with a plain case. Kuğu Müzik is the authorised J.C. Neupert dealer in Türkiye, and Neupert spinets are available to order.
What defines Neupert spinets:
- Bentside case: Both models are of the bentside spinet type developed by Girolamo Zenti
- Compact size: 148–195 cm long, 31–38 kg
- Lute stop and transposing: Lute register and a1 = 440/415 Hz transposing mechanism
- Historical action: Wooden jacks and Delrin plectra
Neupert Zenti Spinet
The Neupert Zenti is a new design dedicated to Girolamo Zenti, the Italian master who first built the bentside spinet type in 1637. With this model, Neupert meets the need for a musically versatile, easily portable and affordable instrument.
Despite being only 148 cm long and weighing 31 kg, it has a wide keyboard with a compass of A1–f3. The lute (buff) stop and transposing mechanism are standard; the music desk can be used with the lid open or closed.
| Compass | A1–f3 (4 3/4 octaves) |
|---|---|
| Registers | 8′, lute |
| Transposing | Standard (a1 = 440/415 Hz) |
| Keys | Naturals ebony, sharps pearwood topped with bone |
| Action | Wooden jacks, Delrin plectra |
| Length | 148 cm |
| Width | 62 cm |
| Net weight | 31 kg |
| Optional equipment | Moulding around the case, tapered legs with moulding, fitted cover and bench |
Neupert J. H. Silbermann Spinet
The Neupert J. H. Silbermann is a copy of the spinet made around 1767 by the Strasbourg master Johann Heinrich Silbermann (1727–1799), now in the collection of the University of Erlangen. The copy is faithful to the original down to the smallest detail, from the Silbermann rose with three intertwined S letters to the stylised lily-shaped hinges.
That at least eight spinets of the same type by Johann Heinrich, the youngest son of Andreas Silbermann, have survived shows how popular these instruments were in their day. Its long strings of almost two metres and large soundboard give a surprisingly full sound.
Standard version: A plain-case version of the same spinet. The Silbermann rose, lily-shaped hinges, curved carved legs and panelled lid are not included in this version, offering a more economical spinet without compromising on sound quality.
| Compass | F1–f3 (5 octaves) |
|---|---|
| Registers | 8′, lute |
| Action | Wooden jacks, Delrin plectra |
| Length | 195 cm |
| Width | 66 cm |
| Net weight | 38 kg |
| Versions | Ornamented case faithful to the original, or the plain-case Standard (same dimensions and sound) |
| Optional equipment | Transposing mechanism (a1 = 440/415 Hz), fitted cover and bench |
Model Comparison
| Model | Compass | Length | Weight | Transposing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zenti | A1–f3 (4 3/4 octaves) | 148 cm | 31 kg | Standard |
| J. H. Silbermann / Standard | F1–f3 (5 octaves) | 195 cm | 38 kg | Option |
Other Neupert Instruments
Neupert harpsichords · Neupert clavichord · Neupert fortepiano. For all instruments, see the Neupert page.
Source: J.C. Neupert – Spinets
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a spinet and a harpsichord?
The spinet and the harpsichord sound with the same plectrum action. In a spinet, the strings run diagonally to the keyboard and there is a single 8′ register, so the case is much smaller and lighter. For more registers and tone colours, see our Neupert harpsichords page.
Zenti or J. H. Silbermann?
At 148 cm and 31 kg, the Zenti is more compact and has a transposing mechanism as standard. The J. H. Silbermann, with its 195 cm case and F1–f3 compass, offers a full five octaves and a fuller sound.
How can I buy a Neupert spinet in Türkiye?
Neupert spinets are built to order in Neupert’s workshop near Bamberg and brought to Türkiye through Kuğu Müzik. For finish, colour and optional equipment, get in touch with us.