A guide to the principal Steinway grand piano models commonly encountered in the UK, from the compact Model S to the concert Model D.
Roberts Pianos buys, restores and sells Steinway grands and regularly undertakes Steinway and Renner training. Our work covers action preparation, touch, tone, traditional French polishing and modern polyester finishes.
Steinway restoration videos
These workshop videos show some of the restoration and preparation involved in bringing a Steinway grand back to a high musical standard.
Common Steinway grand models
Dimensions varied slightly by factory and period. The sizes below are a practical guide for identifying and comparing models.
Model S
Size: 5ft 1in
Introduced: 1936
The rarest compact used Steinway in the UK, suited to smaller rooms.
Model M
Size: About 5ft 7in
Introduced: 1911
The Medium Grand is a versatile domestic model for medium-sized rooms.
Model O
Size: About 5ft 10½in
Introduced: Circa 1900
One of the most frequently encountered Steinway grands in the UK, with strong domestic proportions.
Model L
Size: About 5ft 10½in
Introduced: 1923
A New York model closely related in size to the Model O.
Model A
Size: About 6ft 1in-6ft 4½in
Introduced: 1878
A family of resonant mid-sized grands, including later A II and A III variants.
Model B
Size: About 6ft 11in
Introduced: 1872
A highly regarded semi-concert grand with long keys, a clear tenor and broad dynamic range.
Model C
Size: About 7ft 1in-7ft 5in
Introduced: 1861
A large grand discontinued as a regular model but occasionally produced in Hamburg in later periods.
Model D
Size: About 8ft 5in-8ft 10in
Introduced: 1859
Steinway’s concert grand, used in major halls and conservatoires. Used examples require especially careful assessment.
Not sure which model?
Serial number, case measurements, leg style and plate markings can help identify a Steinway. Condition matters more than model name alone when valuing a used piano.
Steinway restoration and care
Is my Steinway worth restoring?
Many Steinway grands justify restoration, but the right scope depends on age, model, structural condition, action wear, finish and the owner’s goals. Uprights vary more widely. A physical assessment is the safest basis for a restoration decision.
How should I care for a Steinway?
Keep humidity reasonably stable and avoid placing the piano beside strong heat or direct sunlight. Use a barely damp, soft cloth for suitable case finishes. Internal cleaning, dampers and action work should be left to a piano technician.
Looking for a Steinway grand?
See current pianos, read customer experiences, or ask us about restoration and valuation.