2020 Piano Buying Guide From the Piano Experts

Ultimate Piano Buying Guide 2020

A piano is a symbol of sophistication and an instrument that covers all 88 notes on a musical scale. Unlike all other instruments, a piano can train you on all harmonic parts of music. Thinking of learning how to play the piano or enhancing your skill? Below is a piano buying guide that helps you how to decide on a piano brand and the type of piano to purchase for your home. What Type of Piano Should I Buy?How to decide on the type of piano depends on your objectives for acquiring one. Do you intend to buy one because you want a new hobby or are you an advanced pianist needing a piano that can meet your skill level and go beyond?

The first step would be to decide on whether you should get an acoustic or a digital piano.

Acoustic Piano

This is the traditional piano or old-school type of piano. The piano is comprised of hardwoods, cast iron plats, strings, and an amazing series of impressive mechanics.

Two types of Acoustic Piano:

Grand Piano

A grand piano is the original design and best engineering for a piano. It’s length creates projection and it’ grand action gives a discerning pianist the ability to express themselves fully from the key to the string. Grand pianos range in price depending on materials made, craftsmanship, and size. A grand piano is both beautiful and best for playability and listening.

Upright Piano

Unlike the grand piano, an upright piano will take up far less space. It’s a lot more compact which means it can comfortably fit in your home, studio, or apartment. This style of piano was designed to be the compromise to a grand piano. Upright pianos generally have shorter string lengths and soundboard size compared to a grand piano. The taller in size equates to better sound and higher level of performance. We carry both used and new upright pianos.

Digital Piano

Digital pianos are relatively new in the market. They can mimic the sounds produced by an acoustic piano by using advanced technology and sound samples. They are also many times a more affordable option compared to acoustic pianos. This is the best option for beginners as it doesn’t need tuning and you can connect other electronic devices thru bluetooth connectivity for online learning etc.

Types of digital pianos: Portable Keyboard or Digital Piano

The portable piano is often the choice for gig pianists, traveling musicians, or the beginner students. One of its advantages is it doesn’t need a stand which means you can easily move the instrument or store it when it’s not in use.

Console Type Digital Piano

This is very popular and the sound can be very similar to that of an acoustic piano when sampled thru Roland SuperNatural Modeling. You can recognize it with its furniture-style cabinet, and three pedals that look the same as an acoustic piano.

Digital Grand Piano

This style comes closest to the acoustic grand piano. Its larger body contributes to its impressively deep and powerful sound. If you prefer the cosmetic appearance of a baby grand piano without the need for maintenance this is a good option.

Piano Specifications/Features You Should Consider

How to select a piano also depends on other factors such as intent of use, versatility, cost, recording capability and who will be playing it. If you’re looking for something you can easily store away, consider buying a digital piano. They are much lighter and more compact as opposed to the acoustic piano. You can comfortably take them anywhere you go. If you want an acoustic piano but space is a limit then an upright piano will be your perfect fit. As always if you have room for a grand piano that would be your best option. The cost is also an important factor. A piano will cost more or less depending on the quality of materials used and the cost of labor where it was assembled or made. Learning about all theses details is the job of the retailer you visit. For students just beginning piano, Digital console style pianos can be a great start. A digital piano comes with the ability to connect to app based learning, practice silently, and are generally much more affordable than purchasing an acoustic upright or grand piano.

Should I Get a New or a Used Piano?

With a new piano, you get a manufacturer’s warranty that will come in handy if you are have issues with the instrument. Also, you are almost assured that there will be no hidden defects. Depending on the retailer new pianos will have been prepped and tuned – they are ready to go for a great peace of mind and worry free experience. If you want to save more, a used piano is also a good idea. Used pianos purchased from a reputable retailer will have been prepped, cleaned, and inspected by pianos technicians. Most retailers also offer a store warranty on their pre-owned selection. Another option is a rebuilt piano. Generally rebuilt pianos are higher end pianos to warrant the high cost of restoration.

What Type of Piano Should I Purchase for My Space

If you have very limited space, consider getting a portable digital piano, or an upright as they are more compact. For those with more space, upright pianos for a more authentic experience would be better. Digital pianos also can be played with headphones – if noise control is an issue. If you have a larger living room, a grand piano would make an excellent choice. You can make it the centerpiece of your room.

What Piano Brand is Best For Me

This is a question that requires a one on one in store experience. There are over 70 pianos brands today – find a trusted retailer who can guide you to the best piano brand for you.

Utilize this piano buyer guide to help you decide which piano you should get today!