What to Look For When Buying Used Steinway Pianos

Most people have the belief that used items that are no longer wanted or have failed the owners in terms of performance should be scrapped and generally are not a good deal. However, you need to note that not all used items are poor in performance and even condition. In fact, used pianos of any fine brand do not depreciate like other items. A good piano is able to survive usage for over 40 years easily and getting one that has been used for even ten years would be just about the same price as a new one. This means that even with a used one, you are still able to get the best performance. However, it is also not obvious from a surface glance that the one you will get is in good shape and able to deliver your needs from a piano.

Most of the time reputable music stores stock better used pianos and can at least offer you the guarantee that will back up your deal for a used piano. This is because, most of them will always carryout servicing and maintenance on the used pianos that they stock so that you are able to get one that is in good condition at a better price. Besides, such stores would also not want to drag their reputation in the mud by selling you a used piano that is defective. However, when buying the piano from a private owner, there are several areas that you need to give many considerations.

Inquire from the owner of the piano about its history. It would be better if you bought a piano from someone who acquired it new and has always kept it in a home that is reasonably heated and under controlled humidity. A piano that has been kept under such conditions is good and would be a good catch for you. The person selling the piano should also be willing to tell you about how he or she has been using the piano. They should have a record of the piano tunings and maintenance. Pianos that have not been tuned for a long time dop in pitch and fail to reach A440, the standard pitch for pianos. Even though the effect of such a piano might not be so evident to the untrained person it will affect the quality of the piano sound. It would not offer you the ultimate experience of owning a piano that is of the highest quality.

The keys are among the vital components of a piano. To be sure of their condition, you will need to play all of them including both the black and white keys. This will give you information about how the piano has been taken care of. In case they seem to stick a little, that may not be a bigger problem since they may be able to loosen up with time as you continue using them. The keys are the end of the keyboard may also not work properly. This is understandable and should not be so much of a problem to you since an average pianist does not mostly use them. Missing or broken key tops can be replaced.

The best way to know if the piano you are considering is worth purchasing is to hire a technician to inspect it and give you an estimate of its value and what repairs it may require. If the seller will not
permit you to bring someone to check it out you should not consider purchasing the piano. It is also helpful to check on the internet about the type of piano you are considering and find out as much as you can.