1. Stamp
A good piano should lend itself to the various types of musicians and the variety of music they play.
Try to avoid a harsh timbre. Bass and treble should be as soft as the mids, with no pronounced "finality" or metallic resonance. The timbre of the entire range should be even.
In general, the larger the instrument, the better the timbre. Yamaha upright pianos have been designed to reproduce a rich and splendid timbre, some of them even competing with the fullness of a grand piano.
2. Sensation to touch
After listening to the timbre 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 hammer the highs than the lows?
- Do you need to press too hard to increase the sound?
- Are the keys loose or flickering?
- Is it difficult to play a pianissimo (soft) sound with only very light pressure?
- Are the black keys stiff or listless?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you'll need to continue your research. Right from the start, you'll feel at ease with the keys of a good piano, whether you're an amateur or a professional.
The keys, like the timbre, should be even and perform well across the entire keyboard.
Choose a piano that suits you!
3. Stabilité de l’accord
Nothing is more annoying than a piano that is constantly out of tune. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, a piano out of tune is an insult to your performance and spoils your enjoyment.
It goes without saying that no piano will stay in tune forever, even if it's of the highest quality. However, a well-designed and well-built instrument will stay in tune for a long time.
In short, you need to consider the size of the piano, the length of the strings, soundboard, bridge and frame, and their joint performance in reproducing harmonic balance, an extremely important quality in any quality piano.
4. Duration
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 how well it is maintained.
You should also examine the reputation of the dealer.
Some retailers offer their own maintenance service for an additional fee. If so, examine the program carefully. Some retailers also offer maintenance programs which, more often than not, form an integral part of the warranty.
If properly maintained, your piano should last for many years.
If you think about the quality of the piano and the maintenance the retailer offers, you will ensure that your investment is worthwhile.
5. Reputation
The reputation of your piano and its maker will have a huge impact on your satisfaction and pride for years to come.
While you're making inquiries, ask the dealer these pertinent 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 and other educational establishments?
If the answers inspire confidence, you've probably chosen a piano made by a manufacturer whose instruments have stood the ultimate test of time, conditions and musician diversity.
6. Aesthetics
While it's true that quality and playing pleasure must come first, so must aesthetics.
Examine the luster and finish of the furniture.
- Is it attractive?
- Is it smooth?
- Are there any defects or imperfections?
- Do the seals fit properly?
- Does the cut reinforce the piano's symmetry?
- Are the edges well finished?
- Is the finish resistant?
Choose a piano that will seduce your eyes as well as your ears, for a long time to come.
7. Price/quality ratio
Timbre, feel, stability, durability, reputation, aesthetics: these are all essential factors when planning to invest in a piano.
Because that's what it's all about: an investment.
Once you've considered the first six points, you'll need to move on to the final analysis. What is this piano worth?
Most quality pianos, if well maintained, will not depreciate in value for many years. In fact, some quality pianos do increase in value over time.
Of course, this depends on how much care you take with the musical quality and appearance of your piano. A high-quality piano can offer you much more than money can ever buy: the exciting, infinite world of music.