Robert Wallschläger – Bandoneon Maker from Carlsfeld
Discover my work as a builder and restorer of free reed instruments in Carlsfeld, birthplace of the bandoneon. On this page you will find an overview of
- the different RW Bandoneon models,
- an overview of my repair, restoration and tuning services,
- details about accordion repair & restoration,
- information on concertinas and harmonikas,
- and how to contact me directly.
About Robert Wallschläger (Carlsfeld)
I am a master builder and restorer of free reed instruments, working in Carlsfeld – the village known as the birthplace of the bandoneon.
My focus is on crafting new RW Bandoneons with traditional methods, and on providing long-term support for musicians through restoration, repair and precise tuning of accordions, concertinas and harmonikas.
With decades of experience and a workshop rooted in local tradition, I combine craftsmanship with reliability for players worldwide.
In addition, I lead the Bandoneonverein Carlsfeld, which preserves the bandoneon tradition and organizes concerts, education programs and the international festival.
RW Bandoneons – Handmade Models & Systems
Each RW Bandoneon is handmade in Carlsfeld and tailored to the needs of musicians – from beginners to professional tango players.
I offer different models and keyboard systems, covering both bisonoric (different tone on push and pull) and unisonoric (same tone on push and pull) layouts.
The following RW Bandoneon models show the range of systems and layouts I build, each offering unique tonal and technical possibilities:
- 110-tone RW Bandoneon – bisonoric, two-voice; ideal as a student instrument.
- 142-tone RW Bandoneon – bisonoric, two-voice; classic Tango bandoneon in Rhenish layout.
- 144-tone RW Bandoneon – bisonoric, two-voice; the Einheitsbandoneon, widely used in Europe.
- 144-tone RW Bandoneon – bisonoric, three-voice with two-voice bass; Einheitsbandoneon with tremolo sound.
- 146-tone RW Bandoneon – unisonoric; Peguri system developed for modern performance styles.
- 148-tone RW Bandoneon – unisonoric; Manuri system for advanced players.
- 150-tone RW Bandoneon – unisonoric; Kusserow system, offering chromatic flexibility across registers.
These variations ensure that every musician can find an instrument suited to their repertoire – whether studying, playing folk and classical music, or performing tango on stage.
Repair, Restoration & Tuning
My workshop in Carlsfeld specializes in the repair, restoration and tuning of bandoneons, accordions, concertinas and harmonikas.
Every service is performed by hand, ensuring precision, stability and long-term sound quality.
Musicians worldwide trust these services for both vintage instruments and modern models, including specialized accordion repair in Carlsfeld for local and international players.
Here is an overview of my repair and restoration services for bandoneons, accordions and other free reed instruments:
- Bandoneon restoration – complete tuning including reed cleaning, rivet control and new leather valves.
- Bandoneon tuning and repair – hand-filed reeds (no power tools), accurate setup to a’ 440–442 Hz, downtuning on request.
- Accordion repair Carlsfeld – local service available with international reach for traveling musicians.
- Accordion restoration Germany – mechanical overhaul, improved compression and professional casing or celluloid repairs.
- Accordion tuning service – adjustments for tremolo or dry tuning, tailored to the player’s style.
- Accordion reed replacement – authentic spare parts; reed blocks and valves replaced as needed.
- Keyboard & bass mechanics – alignment, lubrication and part replacement for smooth performance.
Accordions – Repair & Restoration
While I handcraft new RW Bandoneons, my work with accordions focuses on repair and restoration.
From accordion repair in Carlsfeld to full accordion restoration in Germany, I help musicians keep their instruments in reliable playing condition.
Services include mechanical overhauls, compression improvement and tuning adjustments for both vintage accordions and modern models.
As part of this work, I also carry out accordion tuning services and reed replacements, tailored to the player’s musical style.
Musicians worldwide – from folk players to professional performers – rely on these services to extend the life and sound quality of their accordions.
FAQ: Accordion vs Bandoneon
Close relatives include the concertina (hexagonal builds, Carlsfeld tuning or German fingering) and the Steirische Harmonika (with optional Helikon bass).
All are free reed instruments with bellows, but differ in layout, voicing and repertoire. For concertinas and harmonikas, Robert Wallschläger from Carlsfeld in the Erzgebirge offers expert service and support.
A button accordion uses standardized chromatic or diatonic button keyboards and is typically unisonoric.
A bandoneon uses systems like Rheinisch or Einheitsbandoneon with dispersed note layouts; most are bisonoric (push/pull = different notes).
The result: different fingering logic, phrasing and voicing options. Compare both sections: Accordion vs. Bandoneon.
Accordions project a round, sustained tone with strong reed coupling and often a tremolo (wet) or dry setup.
Bandoneons have a more focused, reedy and articulate attack with greater dynamic contrast—ideal for tango phrasing and chamber textures.
Choice of system (e.g., Rheinisch, Einheitsbandoneon) and voicing (two- or three-voice) further shapes the sound. Explore models under RW Bandoneons. If you want your instrument adjusted to achieve its best tone, see my restoration and tuning services.
This FAQ helps players decide which instrument best suits their music, and shows that both can be maintained and restored with equal care. For detailed service options please visit Repair & Tuning, or contact me directly for a personal consultation.
Concertinas & Harmonikas – Repair & Restoration
- 106-tone Concertina – service for instruments with Carlsfeld tuning, including reed adjustments and voice balancing (2–4 voices).
- 40-tone hexagonal Concertina – repair and tuning of German fingering models, typically 1–3 voices, often used in folk music.
- Steirische Harmonika – overhaul and tuning of variants with or without Helikon bass, including RW Wiener models played in alpine and Central European folk styles.
Good to Know
Bellows (In-house)
I produce custom bellows directly in my workshop in Carlsfeld, located in the Erzgebirge – the historic center of bandoneon building.
Services include resealing, reinforcement of corners and leak repairs – all to ensure efficient compression and reliable playability.
Used & Refurbished Instruments
In addition to new builds, I also offer used and refurbished instruments.
Every bandoneon or accordion in stock is professionally overhauled, tuned and made ready to play.
Availability varies, so please contact me directly for the current inventory.
Contact and Orders
For inquiries for new bandoneons, expert accordion repair or professional restoration and tuning services, please contact me directly. I support musicians in Carlsfeld, throughout Germany and worldwide.
- Navigational intent – Robert Wallschläger Bandoneon, Bandoneon maker Carlsfeld, RW Bandoneon.
- Service intent – Bandoneon restoration, Bandoneon tuning and repair, Accordion repair Carlsfeld, Accordion restoration Germany.
- Purchase intent – Handmade bandoneons from Carlsfeld; restored and refurbished accordions available in Germany.
How to contact Robert Wallschläger:
Phone: +49 37752/55588
Email: info@hzi-carlsfeld.de
Send me an email with details about your instrument, service request or tuning setup.
Every inquiry will be answered personally, with transparent information on available models, service options and current lead times.
You can also learn more about the Bandoneonverein Carlsfeld, which I lead.