Piano Hunting

Piano hunting can be a daunting task – especially when you have no idea where to start.  Where do you buy a piano?  Do I buy it used… do I buy it new?  These are legitimate questions that deserve an answer.  Here is a basic overview of the different pianos available:

81vKGDme6AL._SL1500_Keyboard (unweighted keys)

Keyboards are a very basic instrument that meets basic musical needs.  However, it is not suited for learning how to play the piano.  Keyboards are an entirely different instrument due to their inability to match the touch and feel of a real piano.  Students who use these pianos will not be prepared to perform on a real piano during recitals and may find their desire for learning to be squelched.

Weighted Key Digital Piano61L2Qv2JoyL._SL1000_

Digital Pianos that have weighted keys are certainly better than keyboards.  But, they are certainly not preferred over an acoustic piano.  The benefits of this kind of piano are 1) volume can be controlled for more sanity in the home during practice times, 2) Headphones can be utilized for times when musical noise is unwanted, and 3) Upkeep on these pianos are minimal.  The cons of purchasing one of these pianos are 1) The student will not be accustomed to the vibration of the strings, which can effect the development of good technique, 2) While some digital piano are equipped with amazing sound technology, only the very expensive ones come close to the sound and responsiveness of a real piano, and 3) Accoustic pianos just sound better.  If the purchase of a digital piano is in the near future, “weighted hammer action” is preferable over “weighted action”.

Acro51Spinet

These pianos tend to be very small and fit in living rooms quite nicely.  They are also more easy to move than most acoustic pianos.  However, the upkeep of these pianos is not cheap.  Due to their shortness in size, the parts and labor involved in repairs is not worth the initial investment.  Their sound is also among the most inferior of acoustic pianos.  I highly recommend staying away from these.

ConsoleDCP_4099

A console can sometime be mistaken for a spinet.  They appear similar in size.  But, they are certainly taller than Spinets.  In my opinion, these pianos are probably the best starter piano for families who are on a budget.  They are not as expensive to repair as Spinets are and they usually have a better sound.

 

hamilton2Upright pianos

Tall upright pianos tend to be very strong and durable pianos… when they have not been left out in the weather (garage, warehouse).  But, sometimes these pianos need a lot of work to get them up to par.  If one can be found in good condition, this option is the best out of all the upright options.

Grand Pianospiano-1390345816CsY

Depending on when they were made, grands and baby grands vary quite widely. A century-old grand that has been repaired and restored is far more valuable than many of the brand new pianos in your local piano store.  Beware of buying new pianos.  Many of them are made very cheaply in this day and age.  Otherwise, this is, by far, the best option if it can be afforded.

What to Watch out For

Soundboard cracks can be detrimental to the life of a piano.  This happens when a piano is exposed to the weather for a long period of time.  The expanding and contracting of the piano end up cracking the wood on the soundboard… which then throws off the otherwise beautiful tone of a piano.  Not all cracks are detrimental though.  Seek the advice of a piano technician for more details regarding soundboard cracks.

For a more detailed guide to shopping for your piano, I highly recommend a thorough reading of this link: http://www.conderpiano.com/AGuideToPianoShopping.htm.  I also recommend Richard Conder’s services for tuning, moving, and repairing your piano in the future.   http://www.conderpiano.com/index.htm