Before spending your money, you need to be prepared properly. Take a look at our 9 tips below, plus download our FREE 2023 Piano Buyer's Guide
1. Be prepared and measure in advance
Measure the area you’ve assigned for your new piano, and take note of the dimensions with you when you visit your dealer. There’s nothing more frustrating than turning up unprepared.
2. Watch out for knock-off brands!
© Steinway & Sons
Buy reputable brands and beware of cheap instruments masquerading under obsolete or invented German names. If you’re not sure about a brand name, check its provenance before committing.
Grab a copy of our 2023 Piano Buyer's Guide for all the latest updated information on the world's top brands and models.
3. Trust yourself
Listen to your dealer’s advice about reliability, warranties etc. But when it comes to assessing whether you’re happy with the tone and touch, trust your own judgement.
4. Testing, testing, 1 2 3...
Give it a good try if the piano is for your own use. Try to play as many different styles/pieces as possible, so that you give it a good test. (Bring your sheet music along if you don’t know it by heart.) And take your time. Don’t be intimidated!
5. Take control
Don’t let a demonstrator choose your piano for you – if you’re uncomfortable performing in front of people (which is quite normal), ask to be left alone to make your choice.
6. When buying an instrument for someone else...
... bring the player along (in the case of a piano for a new learner, see if the teacher can come too).
7. Ask for advice
Involve other members of your household if in doubt about size, colour/finish and so on. Someone else might have a better eye as to whether the piano will fit in with the surrounding décor.
8. Think about your budget
Aim to stick to your budget but don’t scrimp unnecessarily. Your new piano will be with you for many years, so treat it as an investment – it’ll pay you back.
9. Browse our free Piano Buyer's Guide
Ranging from beginner pianos to more advanced pianos – both affordable and more luxurious – there's a high chance you may find the piano you're looking for inside our new 2022 Piano Buyer's Guide. The Guide is full of detailed insight into the fascinating world of the top piano makers and retailers, plus you can find more specific information on certain models.
Best of all, it's completely free.