Piano buying guide
Choose a piano by touch, tone and condition
A maker name and polished cabinet do not tell the whole story. The best piano is the instrument that suits the player, room and budget after its mechanical condition has been properly assessed.
First decisions
Start with how and where the piano will be used
Player and repertoire
A beginner, advanced student and professional player may need different touch, dynamic range and repetition.
Room and neighbours
Room size, floor finish, furnishings and shared walls affect how powerful or bright a piano feels at home.
Budget beyond purchase
Allow for delivery, tuning and any immediate action, regulation or casework needed after purchase.
Upright
Efficient use of space
A high-quality upright can outperform a very short grand. Uprights are practical for domestic rooms, teaching and serious study when the action and tone are well matched.
Grand
Control, repetition and projection
Grand actions support fast repetition and give the soundboard more room to project. Length, condition and room acoustics still matter greatly.
Compare the essentials
Listen and play before deciding
Tone
Listen across the full keyboard at quiet and strong dynamics. Avoid choosing only from a recording.
Touch
Check control at soft volume, repetition and evenness from bass to treble.
Leg room
Sit with the bench at a comfortable height and confirm knees and pedals fit naturally.
Condition
Ask about tuning stability, action wear, soundboard, strings and previous restoration.
Maker, age and inspection
Use the maker as context, not a guarantee
Identify the model
Size and model determine the original design and intended level more precisely than the badge alone.
Date the piano
Use the serial number, but judge how the piano has been used and maintained during those years.
Arrange an inspection
For a private purchase or valuable older piano, independent technical inspection reduces uncertainty.
The bottom line
Compare several properly prepared pianos in person. Choose the one that gives the player musical control, fits the room and has a condition you understand.