The piano is one of the most popular instruments in the world. It has a long history in Western Music. You can buy a shiny new piano which may cost a lot of money. Alternatively, people opt for used pianos or digital pianos. What are the best used piano brands?
There are several reputable brands known for manufacturing high-quality used pianos. In this article, we are sharing some of the best used piano brands along with examples and a general price range.
Table of Contents
Piano Types
Before we jump into the details of the used piano, let’s take a look at the different types of pianos.
Basically, there are two categories of pianos: vertical (upright) and horizontal (grand) pianos.
Within vertical pianos, they are further grouped into four styles by their height:
- Spinet
- Console
- Studio
- Professional
Likewise, grand pianos have six sub-groups by their sizes:
- Petite Baby Grand Piano
- Baby Grand Piano
- Parlor or Medium Grand Piano
- Professional Grand Piano
- Semi-Concert Grand Piano
- Concert Grand Piano
Check the related article for more detailed information about different types of grand pianos.
While the used piano’s price directly relates to its condition, age, brand, and model, the piano type is also one of the significant factors. Typically, the bigger the piano, the more expensive. For instance, grand pianos are generally more expansive than upright pianos.
Best Used Piano Brands (in no Particular Order)
To help you find the best brands of pre-owned pianos and choose the one that aligns with your musical journey, we share seven best-used piano brands known for producing quality, long-lasting pianos.
Steinway & Sons
Steinway & Sons is an American piano brand. It was founded in 1853 in New York City and has since become one of the world’s most renowned and respected piano manufacturers.
Steinway pianos are highly regarded for their exceptional craftsmanship, rich tonal quality, superior touch response, precision, and durability. They are often considered the pinnacle of piano craftsmanship and have been favored by countless professional pianists and esteemed institutions.
The brand has a long-standing reputation for producing instruments that retain their value over time, making them highly sought after in the used piano market.
A new Steinway medium grand piano Model M may cost about $120,000. However, the price range of a pre-owned Model M is $15,000 to $60,000, depending on age, condition, and specific edition.
Yamaha
Yamaha is a renowned brand. It was founded in 1887 in Hamamatsu, Japan, and has grown to become one of the largest and most influential manufacturers of musical instruments worldwide.
Yamaha produces a wide range of instruments, including pianos, keyboards, guitars, drums, and more. Yamaha pianos are known for their consistent performance, reliable build quality, and excellent value for money. The Brand offers a broad selection of piano models suitable for players of different skill levels and musical styles.
Yamaha pianos are designed with advanced technology, ensuring consistent touch and tone across their instruments, making them a popular choice in both new and used markets.
For example, a Yamaha professional upright piano U3 costs around $16,000 when you purchase new. A second-hand U3 piano can be found within the price range of $3,000 to $8,000.
Bechstein
The German piano manufacturer, Bechstein has a long history of producing high-quality instruments. In addition, Bechstein pianos are known for their rich and dynamic tone, precise touch, and exceptional craftsmanship.
They are handcrafted using traditional methods and carefully selected materials, resulting in instruments of outstanding quality and musicality.
Many professional pianists have favored Bechstein pianos and are valued in the used piano market for their excellent performance and durability.
A new Bechstein baby grand piano model A-160 costs around $74,000, while a used one may cost $10,000 to $40,000. The A-160 provides a premium option for those seeking a compact, high-end, hand-made instrument.
Bösendorfer
While wholly owned by Yamaha, the Austrian manufacturer, Bösendorfer, remains fully independent and operates as a separate Austrian company. It is celebrated for its handcrafted, high-end pianos.
Bösendorfer pianos are known for their rich singing tone, exceptional sustain, and meticulous attention to detail. Consequently, they are often considered among the finest pianos, sought after by professional pianists and discerning enthusiasts.
Bösendorfer instruments are renowned for their unique qualities and are considered investment-grade pianos due to their superior craftsmanship and limited production.
Kawai
Another Japanese piano manufacturer is Kawai, known for its commitment to innovation and craftsmanship.
Kawai pianos are known for their precise and responsive touch, warm and vibrant tones, and exceptional build quality. They are often compared to Yamaha pianos, with a reputation for offering a slightly different tonal character.
Hence, Kawai instruments are highly regarded among pianists and are sought after in the used piano market for their reliability and musical excellence.
Blüthner
The German piano manufacturer Blüthner, is recognized for its heritage and traditional craftsmanship.
Blüthner pianos are renowned for their warm and expressive tone, delicate touch, and refined musicality. They are also known for their hand-built quality, including using Blüthner’s patented Aliquot stringing system, contributing to their distinctive sound.
Blüthner pianos are highly regarded among pianists and collectors, making them desirable in the used piano market.
Baldwin
Baldwin is an American piano company with a long-standing history in the industry. It has produced pianos since the late 19th century.
Furthermore, Baldwin pianos are recognized for their solid construction, robust sound, and excellent value. They have a reputation for being reliable and durable instruments, making them popular in the used piano market.
Baldwin pianos have been widely used in homes, schools, and performance venues, contributing to their popularity and recognition.
Tips for Buying Used Pianos
Used pianos refer to pianos that have been previously owned and are being resold. These instruments can offer an affordable alternative to buying a new piano while still providing excellent musical quality.
Here are a few important factors to consider when purchasing a used piano –
Condition
The condition of a used piano is a crucial aspect to evaluate. It includes the piano’s age, level of wear and tear, structural integrity, and the overall maintenance it has received over the years.
Brand and Model
The brand and model of a used piano can give you insights into its reputation, craftsmanship, and overall quality. The aforementioned brands are renowned for longevity, excellent sound, and value retention.
Price
Used pianos can vary significantly in price, depending on brand, model, age, condition, and market demand. Therefore, setting a budget and comparing prices for similar models is essential to ensure you get a fair deal.
Maintenance and Repairs
Assessing the piano’s maintenance history and any repairs it has undergone is crucial. Look for records of regular tunings, general maintenance, and any major repairs that may have been performed. A piano that has been well-maintained and properly serviced is likely to have a longer lifespan and better performance.
Check out our detailed used piano buying guide.
Summary
Buying a piano is not a small feat. It is a significant investment for most people. Moreover, it is a very personal choice. Therefore, the best-used piano brands we shared here are a starting point. It is essential to research the brand and model you want to buy.
If you prefer an acoustic piano, buying a pre-owned piano in good condition will be a budget-friendly option.
Of course, many digital pianos with outstanding sound and excellent key actions are worth consideration. For instances,
- Kawai KDP-120 digital piano features SK-EX (Shigeru Kawai) concert grand piano sound.
- Yamaha Arius YDP-184 digital piano allows you to bring home the sound of a nine-foot CFX concert grand piano.
In conclusion, for whatever reasons you decide to buy a used piano, there are several factors to consider, including –
- Overall condition
- Brand and model
- Age of the piano
- Maintenance and repairs
It’s highly recommended to have a qualified piano technician inspect the used piano you are considering purchasing.
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