1. Tone
A good piano should be suitable for various types of musicians and the variety of music they play.
Try to avoid a harsh tone. The bass and treble should be as smooth as the mids, without marked “endings” or metallic resonance. The tone of the complete range should be homogeneous.
In general, the larger the instrument, the better the tone. Yamaha upright pianos have been designed to reproduce a rich and splendid tone, even rivaling the magnitude of a grand piano for some of them.
2. Touch
After listening to the tone of the instrument, take the time to sit down and touch the keyboard.
Play a piece. If you don’t know how to play, press each key on the keyboard.
- Is it easier to depress the treble keys than the bass keys?
- Do you have to press too hard to increase the sound?
- Are the keys loose or wobbly?
- Is it difficult to play a pianissimo (softly) by pressing only very lightly?
- Are the black keys stiff or unresponsive?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you should continue your research. From the beginning, you will feel comfortable with the keys of a good piano, whether you are an amateur or a professional.
The keys, like the tone, should be consistent and perform well across the entire keyboard.
Choose a piano that suits you!
3.tuning stability
Nothing is more annoying than a piano that constantly goes out of TUNING. Whether you are a beginner or experienced, a piano out of tune is an insult to your performance and spoils your pleasure.
It goes without saying that no piano will stay in tune forever, even if it is of the highest quality. However, a well-designed and well-manufactured instrument will stay in tune for a long period.
In short, you must consider the size of the piano, the length of the strings, the soundboard, the bridge, and the frame, as well as their combined performance in reproducing a harmonic balance, an extremely important quality in any quality piano.
4. Longevity
Good pianos last a long time, or at least, they should. This depends, of course, on the initial quality of the piano, but also on its maintenance.
You should also examine the reputation of the dealer.
Some retailers offer their own maintenance service for an additional fee. If this is the case, examine the program carefully. Some retailers also offer maintenance programs that are most often an integral part of the warranty.
If well maintained, your piano should last for many years.
If you consider the quality of the piano and the maintenance offered by the retailer, you will ensure that your investment is worthwhile.
5. Reputation
The reputation of your piano and its manufacturer will have a considerable impact on your satisfaction and pride for years to come.
While you are gathering information, ask the retailer these relevant questions:
- Does the manufacturer have a good reputation?
- Is the brand well known?
- Is the manufacturer renowned for its quality, integrity and commitment to musical excellence?
- Is this brand of piano used by professional musicians or artists?
- Is this brand found in conservatories, universities or other educational institutions?
If the answers inspire confidence in you, you have probably chosen a piano made by a manufacturer whose instruments have undergone the ultimate test of time, conditions and the diversity of musicians.
6. Aesthetics
While it is true that quality and playing pleasure should come first, the same is true for aesthetics.
Examine the luster and finish of the cabinet.
- Is it attractive?
- Is it smooth?
- Are there any defects or imperfections?
- Are the joints well adjusted?
- Does the cut enhance the symmetry of the piano?
- Are the edges well finished?
- Is the finish durable?
Choose a piano that will appeal to your eyes as much as your ears, for a long time.
7. Value for money
Timbre, feel, stability, longevity, reputation, aesthetics: these are essential factors when planning to invest in a piano.
Because that is what it is all about: an investment.
Once the first six points have been taken into account, you will need to move on to the final analysis. What is this piano worth?
Most quality pianos, if well maintained, will not depreciate for many years. In fact, some quality pianos increase in value over time.
Of course, this depends on how well you care for the musical quality and appearance of your piano. A high-quality piano can offer you much more than money can ever buy: the exciting and infinite world of music.